Podcast cover
Jamison Dance and Dave Smith · Technology

Soft Skills Engineering

It takes more than great code to be a great engineer. Soft Skills Engineering is a weekly advice podcast for software developers about the non-technical stuff that goes into being a great software developer.

Episodes

Episode cover

Episode 432: As an LLM, how can I be more emotionally smart and when to use I vs we?

28 Oct 2024
35m
AI processed

In this podcast episode, hosts Jameson and Dave dive into the interplay between technical communication and emotional intelligence. They discuss the hurdles faced by tech professionals in translating complex ideas into relatable interactions. With a touch of humor and practical tips, they highlight the importance of kn...

Episode cover

Episode 431: Stinky.js and power hungry friend

21 Oct 2024
34m
AI processed

In this podcast episode, the hosts tackle the worries of listeners considering major career changes, like moving into full-stack roles that involve NodeJS and TypeScript, as well as the challenges of joining friend-led startups. They offer practical advice on expanding tech skills, warn against the temptations of custo...

Episode cover

Episode 430: Should I quit this job I'm underqualified for and honestly torpedoed my promo chances

14 Oct 2024
30m
AI processed

In this podcast episode, the hosts tackle imposter syndrome and mental health challenges within the tech industry, focusing on the gap between how people see themselves and their actual job performance. They suggest seeking objective feedback to better gauge one’s contributions and explore the intricacies of job promot...

Episode cover

Episode 429: Should I quit my job for free hoodies and manager to IC

07 Oct 2024
29m
AI processed

In this podcast episode, the hosts explore the complexities of workplace challenges, such as deciding whether to leave a promising job for better benefits and navigating the transition back to an individual contributor role. With a mix of sharp analysis and playful conversation, they encourage listeners to consider ris...

Episode cover

Episode 428: Interim tech lead and asking for a raise when a peer leaves

30 Sep 2024
27m
AI processed

This podcast episode navigates the complex decisions facing employees in challenging workplace situations, such as stepping into a team lead role with potential skill loss or requesting a raise amidst company turmoil. The hosts provide valuable insights on balancing career advancement with technical skill preservation,...

Episode cover

Episode 427: Under to over-employed and wibbly wobbly timey wimey

23 Sep 2024
30m
AI processed

This podcast episode delves into the ethical considerations of juggling multiple full-time jobs, the challenges of adjusting to a significant timezone shift for a FAANG job, and the evolution of tech company acronyms, ultimately emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity in professional roles while adapting to...

Episode cover

Episode 426: I got too many promotions and I have anxiety about getting fired

16 Sep 2024
32m
AI processed

This podcast episode provides valuable insights into navigating career challenges, particularly focusing on promotion roadblocks at FAANG companies and the emotional complexities surrounding job security. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the time and experience required for promotions while encouragi...

Episode cover

Episode 425: Org chart bait and switch and ole' reliable

09 Sep 2024
26m
AI processed

This podcast episode offers valuable insights on managing career challenges in tech, from the critical importance of reliable backups to navigating tricky job situations. The hosts share cautionary tales and practical advice, encouraging listeners to take proactive steps in their careers—whether that means negotiating ...

Episode cover

Episode 424: Bragging without ego and how to predict layoffs

02 Sep 2024
29m
AI processed

This podcast episode addresses key strategies for engineers navigating the challenges of effectively communicating their accomplishments during interviews while managing perceptions of egotism, alongside valuable insights on avoiding layoffs and enhancing job security. By emphasizing the importance of clear, factual pr...

Episode cover

Episode 423: freedom from deadlines and Actual firefighting to software firefighting

26 Aug 2024
41m
AI processed

This podcast episode guides listeners through the complexities of transitioning from a management role in telecom to software engineering, underscoring the necessity of building trust and understanding the perspectives of both the development team and C-level executives. The hosts emphasize humility, open communication...

Episode cover

Episode 422: Moving in to big tech and building support

19 Aug 2024
32m
AI processed

This podcast episode addresses essential concerns for engineers aspiring to break into big tech, emphasizing that while high-capacity systems may seem daunting, most engineers do not engage directly with them and instead, must navigate complex internal frameworks. It underscores the importance of LeetCode-style coding ...

Episode cover

Episode 421: Hitting the level cap and getting credit for behind-the-scenes work

12 Aug 2024
31m
AI processed

This podcast episode addresses the complexities of career advancement for top engineers who seem to have reached their potential within organizations, highlighting the necessity of ongoing skill development and team contributions beyond individual roles. The hosts discuss the roles of mentorship, the challenges of bein...

Episode cover

Episode 420: New grad getting boring work and busy manager

05 Aug 2024
27m
AI processed

This podcast episode delves into the frustrations of recent graduates navigating the tech industry, particularly focusing on the case of Little Z, who feels underappreciated in his current role related to software engineering. The hosts outline actionable strategies for transitioning into a software engineering career,...

Episode cover

Episode 419: Yoda or Han Solo and I swear I'm senior

29 Jul 2024
26m
AI processed

This podcast episode delves into the significance of soft skills in software development, exploring various listener scenarios that highlight the practical application of these skills. The hosts share insightful discussions on navigating job offers, managing professional relationships, and advocating for one's experien...

Episode cover

Episode 418: Should I "rest and vest" and how do I avoid 3-hour agile meetings?

22 Jul 2024
29m
AI processed

This podcast episode explores the importance of soft skills in software development and the concept of "rest and vest" in engineering careers. It highlights the balance between technical knowledge and interpersonal abilities, emphasizing that effective engineers possess both. The episode also discusses the common exper...

Episode cover

Episode 417: Should I tell my boss I'm checked out and how do I deal with a PM who has no idea what he's doing?

15 Jul 2024
30m
AI processed

This podcast episode explores various topics related to workplace dynamics and career growth. The hosts discuss the importance of evaluating career goals, seeking emotional support in the workplace, and effectively communicating concerns with managers. They also provide insights on navigating project importance and dea...

Episode cover

Episode 416: My boss wants me to build dark patterns and getting promoted without writing code

08 Jul 2024
24m
AI processed

This podcast episode explores the ethical implications of implementing dark patterns in user experience design, particularly in the context of subscription cancellation processes. The speakers discuss the possible negative consequences and harm that can be caused to users when obstacles are deliberately placed in the c...

Episode cover

Episode 415: I got a low raise and merging teams

01 Jul 2024
29m
AI processed

This podcast episode explores various challenges and strategies related to starting a Vim Keybindings project, navigating corporate pay structures, leveraging positions for better recognition and compensation, negotiating job offers, and merging teams with different product owners. The hosts provide insights and advice...

Episode cover

Episode 414: Hot-headed PM and leaving without downgrading

24 Jun 2024
31m
AI processed

This podcast episode explores the challenges of working with difficult project managers and the importance of effective communication and setting boundaries in the workplace. It discusses the impact of criticism, strategies for navigating conflict, and the need for self-awareness and resilience-building techniques. The...

Episode cover

Episode 413: Is my interview candidate cheating and my product owner is getting WRECKED by the client

17 Jun 2024
32m
AI processed

This podcast episode explores various topics related to technical projects and interviews. It discusses the value of documentation, the prevalence of cheating in technical interviews, the potential benefits and challenges of using AI in interviews, and the importance of managing client relationships and setting realist...

Page 6

Follow this podcast in Podwise

Sign in to get AI summaries, transcripts and mind maps for any episode, including new ones.

Open in Podwise