DP907_S25E32 Developer Legacy Guide- How to Make Your Impact Last for Years

Developer Legacy Guide: How to Make Your Impact Last for Years

In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit their popular discussion “Your Developer Journey – How to Leave a Lasting Legacy.” They use AI-generated prompts only as conversation starters, then share their own insights on what a developer legacy truly means today. You’ll hear practical advice on writing code that stands the test of time, sharing work through open source, and creating a collaborative culture that thrives long after you’ve moved on. Whether you’re a junior engineer mapping your career path or a seasoned architect shaping teams, this conversation offers a roadmap for making your impact felt—and remembered. Why a Developer Legacy Matters A developer legacy is more than old code—it’s the enduring value... Read more

DP906_S25E31 Side Hustle Finances Blueprint for Quick Payments and Growth

Side Hustle Finances Blueprint for Quick Payments and Growth

Turning a side hustle into a profitable business is exciting, but sloppy bookkeeping and unclear invoices can drain your energy—and your wallet. In this AI-enhanced revisit, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche share a practical playbook for mastering side hustle finances, from clean record-keeping to professional billing. Why Side Hustle Finances Matter from Day One A side hustle isn’t “extra cash”—it’s a business. Rob warns that ignoring taxes or mixing personal and business funds can lead to stressful bills or legal trouble. Famous entertainers have learned this the hard way, and so can new entrepreneurs. Treat every paid project like a true business. Without strong side hustle finances, you can’t see profits, plan for taxes, or protect yourself legally. Michael adds... Read more

DP905_S25E30 Constructive Communication in Software Development That Drives Results

Constructive Communication in Software Development That Drives Results

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit an earlier conversation—this time through the lens of AI—to explore how constructive communication in software development creates healthier teams and better code. By analyzing their original “Advocating vs. Arguing” discussion, they uncover new ways to transform conflict into collaboration. “The goal is never to win. The goal is to find the best solution.” – Rob Broadhead What Constructive Communication Really Means Rob draws a clear line between two mindsets: This subtle difference determines whether a team works together to solve problems or gets stuck in endless debates. Why Constructive Communication Improves Software Development Software projects depend on diverse skills and experiences. When team members... Read more

DP904_S25E29 Price With Confidence Estimation Made Simple

Price With Confidence: Estimation Made Simple

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit their earlier discussion on “Estimation Essentials” and explore how AI helps sharpen project pricing. The theme is clear: estimation is less about numbers and more about setting expectations. Developers who learn to price with confidence gain credibility, avoid stress, and build long-term client relationships. Why You Must Price With Confidence Estimation impacts far more than budgets. A clear, honest number builds trust and predictability. Vague requirements like “integrate with multiple systems” can’t be priced accurately—so instead of guessing, developers must clarify scope. Saying “not enough detail to price this yet” protects both sides from disappointment. Honest estimates strengthen trust. Don’t guess—clarify. Common Pitfalls When You... Read more

DP903_S25E28 Code Consistency for Better Software

Code Consistency for Better Software

As the Building Better Developers with AI season nears its close, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit a topic every team faces but few get right: code consistency. In this episode, they explore how shared conventions, smart tooling, and simple documentation transform messy projects into scalable, high-quality systems. The Hidden Cost of Inconsistency Picture opening a project where every file tells a different story: mixed naming styles, conflicting error handling, and folders arranged on a whim. Before you can fix a bug or add a feature, you’re lost in formatting chaos. Callout: Inconsistency wastes time, complicates onboarding, and hides defects—long before code reaches production. Rob notes that AI can now help. Define your preferred patterns—naming, structure, logging—and tools like ChatGPT... Read more

DP902_S25E27 Demo-Driven Development- Build Better Software with Faster Feedback

Demo-Driven Development: Build Better Software with Faster Feedback

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit a classic topic: The Power of Clickable Demos in the Software Development Lifecycle. This time, they reframe it through the lens of demo-driven development, exploring how lightweight prototypes align teams, validate ideas, and reduce costly missteps. What is Demo-Driven Development? Demo-driven development utilizes interactive prototypes early in the lifecycle to demonstrate how an application might function before coding begins. These demos link wireframes or screens together into a simple, clickable flow. “Demo-driven development gives stakeholders something to touch and test—without weeks of coding.” How Interactive Demo-Driven Development Improves Alignment Instead of static diagrams, teams can walk clients through interactive experiences that make requirements tangible.... Read more