A weekly podcast about web design and development with a little zest from Amy Dutton and Brad Garropy
Listen to episodes
60 recent
September 2, 202546 min
205 | Where Web Dev Tools Meet People
Web development is constantly evolving, and so are the tools we use to build. In this episode, Amy and Brad chat with the organizers of Squiggle Conf about the future of web dev tooling, how conferences shape the developer experience, and why community matters just as much as code.Chapters0:00 - Intro0:34 - Meet the Guests: Squiggle Conf OrganizersSquiggle Conf1:19 - What Makes Squiggle Conf Unique3:19 - Tooling and Developer Experience3:30 - Penguins, IMAX, and the Conference Venue4:18 - Who Should Attend Squiggle Conf5:31 - How Talks Are Selected and Curated6:51 - Social and Community Aspects of the Conference12:19 - Behind the Scenes of Organizing a Conference17:46 - Lessons Learned from Running Events23:30 - The Role of Tooling in Modern Development27:21 - Browser-Based Tools and Their Impact28:51 - Shoutout to Astro and Other FrameworksAstroStarlight - Astro's template for documentation33:51 - Comparing Different Conference Experiences38:55 - Building Momentum in the Developer Community40:45 - Looking Ahead: The Future of Squiggle Conf42:02 - Final Thoughts from the Organizers43:43 - Picks and PlugsAre the Types Wrong? — a package & CLI tool by Andrew Branch from the TypeScript teamThe Harry Potter movie seriesCloudflareOne Switch - Mac Menu Bar AppRedwoodSDK
July 8, 202552 min
204 | Why Vue? A Deep Dive with Alex Riviere
Vue developer Alex Riviere joins Amy to explore the fundamental differences between Vue and React, diving deep into Vue's unique approach to reactivity, templating, and developer experience. From the magic of V-Model eliminating controlled/uncontrolled input complexity to Vue's proxy-based reactivity system that "just works," Alex explains why Vue's mental model clicked for him coming from jQuery. The conversation covers Vue 3's Composition API and Script Setup syntax, the evolution from VueX to Pinia for state management, and exciting developments like Vue Vapor Mode that will eliminate the virtual DOM entirely. Alex also breaks down Evan You's recent $4.6M VoidZero funding to revolutionize JavaScript build tooling, the flexibility of Nuxt as a meta-framework, and why Vue remains approachable enough to sprinkle into any project without complex build steps. Show Notes00:00 - Intro01:10 - How Alex Got Started with Vue03:00 - Vue vs React Mental Models08:00 - Vue's Approach to Forms and V-Model10:20 - Vue Frameworks: Nuxt and the Ecosystem17:00 - Vue 2 to Vue 3 Migration Challenges19:00 - Nuxt as a Dev Dependency vs Runtime22:30 - When Do You Need a Framework with Vue?25:30 - Laravel Integration and Alpine.js Connection27:40 - Vue's Reactivity System and Proxies29:40 - State Management: VueX to Pinia Evolution32:20 - SSR and Server Components in Vue34:10 - Hosting and Deployment Options35:40 - Evan You's VoidZero Funding and Vision43:10 - Vue Vapor Mode: Eliminating Virtual DOM47:40 - Getting Started with Vue Resources48:40 - Picks and Plugs Links and ResourcesPeople MentionedAlex Riviere - @alexriviereEvan You - Vue.js creator - @youyuxiBen Hong - Vue core team member - @bencodezenDaniel Roe - Nuxt team - @danielcroeTaylor Otwell - Laravel creator - @taylorotwellVue.js ResourcesVue.js Official Site - vuejs.orgVue.js Documentation - vuejs.org/guideVue School - vueschool.ioVue Mastery - vuemastery.comFrameworks & Tools MentionedNuxt - nuxt.comVite - vitejs.devAstro - astro.buildPinia (Vue state management) - pinia.vuejs.orgVueX (legacy state management) - vuex.vuejs.orgAlpine.js - alpinejs.devLaravel - laravel.comLivewire - livewire.laravel.comSolid.js - solidjs.comReact - react.devSvelte - svelte.devBuild Tools & InfrastructureESBuild - esbuild.github.ioRollup - rollupjs.orgNitroPack - nitro.unjs.ioWebpack - webpack.js.orgVoidZero (Evan You's new company) - voidzero.devHosting PlatformsNetlify - netlify.comVercel - vercel.comCloudflare - cloudflare.comReact Ecosystem (for comparison)Next.js - nextjs.orgRemix - remix.runRedwoodJS - redwoodjs.comGatsby - gatsbyjs.comPodcasts & ContentDeja Vue Podcast - dejavue.fm (mentioned Evan You VoidZero interview)Vue.js Conferences - VueConf eventsTechnical Concepts to ResearchVue Composition API - vuejs.org/guide/extras/composition-api-faq.htmlVue Script Setup - vuejs.org/api/sfc-script-setup.htmlVue Directives - vuejs.org/guide/essentials/template-syntax.html#directivesVue Reactivity - vuejs.org/guide/extras/reactivity-in-depth.htmlVue Vapor Mode (experimental) - github.com/vuejs/core-vaporJavaScript Proxies - MDN Proxy DocumentationSignals (reactive programming) - General concept in modern frameworksPicks & PlugsDropout TV - Nobody Asked - dropout.tvCodeMash Conference - codemash.orgWhoosh Screen Cleaner - https://amzn.to/4nBR5UtAdditional Helpful ResourcesVue 2 to Vue 3 Migration Guide - v3-migration.vuejs.orgVue vs React Comparison - vuejs.org/guide/extras/composition-api-faq.html#comparison-with-react-hooksIslands Architecture - jasonformat.com/islands-architecture
May 13, 202546 min
203 | Feature Flags, Framework Wars, and Landing Your Next Dev Job
In this hosts-only episode, Amy and Brad get real about the developer experience - from the stress of job interviews to the complexities of choosing the right framework. They discuss why companies are comparing candidates more than ever, share strategies for answering behavioral interview questions, and debate the merits of Remix versus Next.js (spoiler: Brad's all-in on Remix). The conversation shifts to feature flags and progressive rollouts, with insights from Brad's work at Stripe. SponsorWorkOS helps you launch enterprise features like SSO and user management with ease. Thanks to the AuthKit SDK for JavaScript, your team can integrate in minutes and focus on what truly matters—building your app. Chapter Marks00:00 - Intro00:41 - Sponsor: WorkOS01:47 - Brad's Keyboard and Mouse Shopping Spree04:30 - Keyboard Layout Discussion07:23 - Apple Ecosystem: Reminders and Notes09:23 - Family Sharing and Raycast Integration09:43 - Notion vs Apple Notes for Project Management11:31 - File Storage and Backup Strategies14:00 - Machine Backup Philosophy16:46 - Job Interview Preparation Tips19:40 - Answering the "Weakness" Question21:53 - Addressing Weaknesses: Delegation Examples24:29 - Conflict Resolution Interview Questions25:46 - Company Research Before Interviews27:00 - Tech Stack Considerations: Remix vs Next.js28:30 - Framework Migration Decisions29:30 - Astro for Content Sites31:02 - Backend Languages: Go vs TypeScript32:30 - React Server Components Future34:23 - Feature Flags and Boolean as a Service35:30 - Feature Flag Segmentation and A/B Testing36:54 - PostHog and Analytics Tools38:30 - Progressive Rollouts and Error Monitoring40:20 - Amy's Picks and Plugs43:35 - Brad's Picks and Plugs
April 8, 202553 min
202 | Framework Trade-offs: What Laravel Offers JavaScript Developers
Josh Cirre joins us to discuss his transition from the JavaScript ecosystem to Laravel, revealing why PHP frameworks can offer a compelling alternative for full-stack development. We explore the "identity crisis" many frontend developers face when needing robust backend solutions, how Laravel's batteries-included approach compares to piecing together JavaScript services, and the trade-offs between serverless and traditional hosting environments. Josh also shares insights on Laravel's developer experience, front-end integration options, and his thoughts on what JavaScript frameworks could learn from Laravel's approach to abstraction and infrastructure.Show Notes0:00 - Intro1:02 - Sponsor: Wix Studio1:46 - Introduction to Laravel2:25 - Josh's Journey from Frontend to Backend5:40 - Building the Same Project Across Frameworks6:32 - Josh's Breakthrough with Laravel8:20 - Laravel's Frontend Options10:25 - React Server Components Comparison12:00 - Livewire and Volt13:41 - Josh's Course on Laracasts14:08 - Laravel's DX and Ecosystem16:46 - MVC Structure Explained for JavaScript Developers18:25 - Type Safety Between PHP and JavaScript21:12 - Laravel Pain Points and Criticisms22:40 - Laravel Team's Response to Feedback24:50 - Laravel's Limitations and Use Cases26:10 - Laravel's Developer Products27:20 - Option Paralysis in Laravel30:46 - Laravel's Driver System33:14 - Web Dev Challenge Experience33:38 - TanStack Start Exploration34:50 - Server Functions in TanStack37:38 - Infrastructure Agnostic Development41:02 - Serverless vs. Serverful Cost Comparison44:50 - JavaScript Framework Evolution46:46 - Framework Ecosystems Comparison48:25 - Picks and Plugs Links Mentioned in the EpisodeLaravel - PHP frameworkTanStack Start - React meta-framework Josh created a YouTube video aboutLivewire - Laravel's HTML-over-the-wire front-end frameworkInertia.js - Framework for creating single-page appsVolt - Single file component system for LivewireLaravel Cloud - Managed hosting solution for Laravel applicationsHerd - Laravel's tool for setting up PHP development environmentsForge - Laravel's server management toolEnvoyer - Laravel's zero-downtime deployment toolLaracasts - Where Josh has a course on LivewireJosh Cirre's YouTube channelHTMX - Frontend library Josh compared to LivewireWeb Dev Challenge with Jason Lengstorf (featuring Josh and Amy)Josh Cirre's BlueSky account (@joshcirre)Amy's BlueSky accountBrad's BlueSky account Additional ResourcesLaravel DocumentationSvelte's new starter kit (mentioned as a good example)Nightwatch - Latest product from LaravelLaravel Vapor - Serverless deployment platform for LaravelTheo's Laravel exploration (discussed in the criticism section)Laravel BreezeLaravel JetstreamLaravel Fortify (authentication package mentioned)Adonis.js (JavaScript framework compared to Laravel)Anker USB powered hub (Josh's pick)Grether's Sugar Free Black Currant Pastilles (Josh's pick)JBL Portable Speaker (Amy's pick)
April 1, 202546 min
201 | The Backend Dilemma: Laravel's Strengths in a JavaScript World
In this episode, Amy and Brad dive into the ongoing debate between Laravel and full stack JavaScript frameworks. They explore both ecosystems from their unique perspectives. Amy shares her real-world experience building a project in Laravel after working extensively with JavaScript frameworks, highlighting where each approach shines and struggles. From Laravel's backend prowess to the cognitive load of context switching between languages, this episode offers practical insights for developers weighing these technology choices.Show Notes00:00 - Intro01:00 - Sponsorship: Sanity01:59 - Origins of the Laravel vs JavaScript Discussion03:59 - Amy's Experience Building a Project in Laravel06:59 - PHP Development and Linting Experience11:59 - Understanding MVC Architecture15:00 - Challenges with JavaScript Backend Services18:00 - Backend Strengths of Laravel20:00 - Frontend Challenges in Laravel23:00 - Comparing Laravel and JavaScript Ecosystem Solutions26:59 - JavaScript Full Stack Frameworks Discussion30:00 - Architectural Differences Between Frameworks33:00 - Framework Choice Considerations38:59 - Picks and Plugs: Newsletter and Cameras42:00 - Picks and Plugs: Games and YouTube Links and ResourcesSanity.io (sponsor)LaravelSam's podcast: Frontend FirstRedwoodJSRemixNext.jsAstroSupabaseInngestResend (email service)Postmark (email service)OpenAIPrismaPHP StormLaravel Blade (templating language)Laravel LivewireAlpine.jsLaravel BreezeLaravel Eloquent ORMAdonis/AdonisJSEpisode 54: Why RedwoodJS is the App Framework for Startups, with David PriceViteStorybookAmy's newsletter: Broken CombInsta360 X2 cameraInsta360 Go 3 cameraStardew Valley (game)Brad's YouTube channelCloudinary channel and Dev Hints series
March 19, 202542 min
200 | Creating Databases as Easily as Notion Pages with Prisma Postgres
Join Amy, Brad, and special guest Ryan Chenkie as they unpack Prisma's expanding ecosystem of database tools. Ryan explains why Prisma launched their own hosted Postgres service and what sets it apart from competitors in the space. The trio examines Prisma's comprehensive feature set including Accelerate for connection pooling, Pulse for real-time events, and optimization tools that help identify performance bottlenecks. They also discuss the upcoming transition from Rust to TypeScript for Prisma's core engine, making it lighter and faster. If you've been curious about modern approaches to database management or wondering which ORM is right for your next project, this conversation provides practical insights and expert perspectives.Show Notes0:00 - Intro1:12 - Working with Prisma and Supabase2:29 - Prisma Postgres Introduction4:17 - Why Choose Postgres6:36 - Prisma's Database Adapter Flexibility8:14 - Serverless Database Architecture11:13 - Connection Pooling with Accelerate14:13 - Pulse for Real-time Database Events16:54 - Studio Integration in Prisma Console18:01 - Database Optimization Tools20:00 - Benefits of Prisma Schema Language22:10 - Prisma Schema vs SQL Definitions23:01 - Comparing Prisma and Drizzle26:24 - Future Improvements to Prisma28:52 - Ryan's History with Prisma32:05 - Learning Resources for Prisma33:37 - Picks and PlugsLinks and ResourcesPrisma ResourcesPrisma WebsitePrisma Twitter/XPrisma YouTube ChannelPrisma Postgres DocumentationPrisma ConsolePrisma VS Code ExtensionPrisma AcceleratePrisma PulsePrisma OptimizePrisma StudioRyan Chenkie ResourcesRyan's Website: https://holodeck.runRyan's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@holodeck_runRyan on Twitter/XFramework and Technologies MentionedRemixRedwood JSSupabasePlanetScaleDrizzle ORMPostgresMySQLMongoDBBrad's ResourcesYouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@bradgarropyRemix Starter: https://github.com/bradgarropy/remix-appAmy's ResourcesBuild12 Projects: https://buildtwelve.comOther Resources MentionedSkylight FrameAura FrameNetflix Show: "Making Fun"Netflix Show: "Is It Cake"
March 4, 202533 min
199 | AI in Web Design: Balancing Speed with Creativity
Join us as we talk with Nir Sadeh, Head of Product at Wix Studio, about the platform designed specifically for web professionals. Nir breaks down how Wix Studio differs from the traditional Wix editor by offering advanced capabilities for agencies and freelancers. Learn about their newest feature—AI-powered visual sitemaps and wireframes—that helps designers quickly create site structures and get client approval. We also explore how Wix balances no-code solutions with developer flexibility, their approach to responsive design using AI, and opportunities in the Wix app marketplace. Nir shares valuable insights about product development, user research methods, and his perspective on the impact of AI on the future of web design.Show Notes00:00 - Intro01:00 - Journey to becoming Head of Product01:48 - Transition from individual contributor to manager02:21 - Team structure at Wix03:42 - Goal setting and KPIs04:36 - Overview of Wix Studio06:08 - Web-based application functionality07:03 - Code editing experiences in Wix Studio08:07 - Client control and access capabilities09:02 - New features: Visual sitemap and wireframes10:57 - AI integration points in Wix12:35 - AI generating layouts and websites14:50 - Upcoming roadmap items15:54 - User creativity surprises16:12 - Wix app marketplace17:34 - Design trends and components18:59 - User research approach20:57 - Data-driven decision making22:16 - Balancing user preferences with brand goals24:02 - Career advice for aspiring product managers25:40 - Balancing customization and consistency26:44 - Mobile responsiveness and browser support28:06 - Native apps and business management28:37 - SEO tracking and analytics29:45 - Picks and PlugsLinks and ResourcesWix Studio - The professional website creation platform discussed throughout the episodeVelo by Wix - The robust code solution mentioned at 06:45Visual Sitemap and Wireframes - The new AI feature launched by Wix StudioWix App Market - The marketplace where developers can build and sell appsVS Code integration with Wix StudioWix Studio AI Assistant - Mentioned as a coding help featureFigma to Wix - Mentioned as having import capabilities to Wix StudioPicks:Severance (TV Show) - Nir's pickRemix Dev Tools (becoming React Router DevTools) - Brad's pickAeroPress - Amy's previous pick (referenced)Prismo filter - Amy's previous pick (referenced)Milk frother - Amy's current pick
February 25, 202551 min
198 | The Great Formatting Debate: ESLint, Prettier, and TypeScript
Josh Goldberg joins Amy and Brad to unpack the recent ESLint V9 release and its impact on the TypeScript ecosystem. From explaining the nuances of flat config migration to debating the proper separation between Prettier and ESLint, Josh offers practical advice for improving developer workflows. The conversation covers Josh's journey as a full-time open source maintainer, the Open Source Pledge initiative, and best practices for implementing linting in CI/CD pipelines. Plus, Josh shares behind-the-scenes details from the inaugural SquiggleConf event.Chapter Marks00:00 - Intro00:48 - Welcome Josh Goldberg01:06 - Working in open source and getting paid03:10 - The Open Source Pledge04:49 - ESLint V9 and flat config changes07:25 - Migration challenges with flat config09:52 - Understanding ESLint config format11:50 - How most people use ESLint16:20 - Prettier vs ESLint responsibilities18:47 - Conflict between Prettier and ESLint21:26 - TypeScript's role in ESLint25:01 - TypeScript ESLint packages explained27:43 - Linters for other languages29:31 - ESLint in CI/CD pipelines32:03 - Auto-fixing in different environments37:14 - AI's role in linting and formatting41:45 - SquiggleConf discussion44:15 - Conference tooling and Q&A system46:33 - Future SquiggleConf plans47:13 - Picks and PlugsBrad GarropyPick: Philips Hue smart lighting system - Set up Christmas lights with Hue smart outlets for easy control via phone or voice commandsPlug: Brad's BlueSky account - @bradgarropy.comJosh GoldbergPick: BlueSky social network - Appreciates how it feels like early Twitter without spam bots and complicated server setupsPlug: SquiggleConf - Web development tooling conference returning in September 2025Amy DuttonPick: The Inheritance Games (book) - Describes it as an easy-to-read young adult fiction with puzzles, similar to Knives OutPlug: Amy's BlueSky account - @selfteachmeLinksMentioned in the EpisodeTypeScript ESLintESLint v9 migration docsESLint Config InspectorSentry Grave $750k to Open Source MaintainersOpen Source Pledge initiativeSquiggle Conf websitePrisma PulsePhilips Hue smart lightingThe Inheritance Games (book mentioned by Amy)Social Media AccountsBrad's BlueSky account: @bradgarropy.comAmy's BlueSky account: @selfteachmeJosh Goldberg's BlueSky Account: @joshuakgoldberg.comRelated ResourcesESLint Stylistic projectESLint Config PrettierESLint Plugin Prettier"Create TypeScript Apps" project (Josh's tooling package)Awesome ESLint repo (collection of ESLint plugins)Manual to Magical: AI in Developer Tooling: Tobbe's talk on using AI to write code modsNicholas Zakas discussing the ESLint config system on Syntax podcastTools MentionedHuskyLint-stagedCursorBiome and OXLint (Rust-based linters)GitHub Actions
February 11, 202541 min
197 | How Jam.dev Turned Bug Reporting Frustration into an 85,000-User Product
Join us for an insightful conversation with Dani Grant, co-founder of Jam.dev, as she shares her journey from Cloudflare PM to startup founder. Learn how Jam.dev persevered through eight failed attempts before finding product-market fit and growing to 85,000 users. Dani reveals valuable lessons about product-led growth, building in public, and raising venture capital. From tactical fundraising tips to creative community building strategies like jam.pizza, this episode is packed with practical insights for founders and anyone interested in the startup journey. SponsorConvex is the backend for founders. Convex is the backend application platform for product-obsessed founders. Show Notes0:00 - Intro0:29 - Sponsor: Convex1:08 - Meeting Dani Grant1:41 - Early Career at Cloudflare3:09 - Finding Internships & Career Growth5:25 - Starting Jam.dev11:56 - Product Evolution & User Growth16:57 - Product Features & Implementation21:22 - Monetization Strategy23:37 - Technical Deep Dive: How Jam Works27:49 - Future Plans & Mobile Development29:12 - Fundraising Tips & Strategies34:00 - Supporting Developer Communities36:18 - Picks and Plugs LinksCompanies/Products:Jam.devCloudflareConvex (sponsor)SentryData DogHotjarFullStoryJIRAMetabaseNotionSocial/Personal:Dani Grant's TwitterDani Grant's email (dani@jam.dev)Brad Garropy's Twitter (@bradgarropy)Learn Build Teach DiscordDeals for Devs projectBooks/Media:"Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" (book mentioned by Dani)Matt Wolf's YouTube channel (AI recaps)Career Resources:jam.dev/careers (mentioned they're hiring)jam.pizza (community meetup sponsorship form)Technical Tools Mentioned:ViteRemixES BuildProducts Similar to Jam:FullStoryHotjarSentryDatadogDevelopment Tools:Chrome Extension Store (where Jam is available)Community:LearnBuildTeach.comDeals for Devs
February 4, 202552 min
196 | Building the Future: Tanstack's Approach to React Server Components
Join us as Tanner Linsley, the creator and founder of TanStack Start talks about its transition from Vinci to a more streamlined architecture built on Nitro. Learn about the framework's innovative approach to server functions, its isomorphic design philosophy, and how it differs from other frameworks like Remix. Tanner also shares insights into TanStack's sustainable open-source business model and his journey to building developer tools that prioritize user experience over rapid growth.Show Notes0:00 - Intro0:38 - Welcome Tanner Linsley3:43 - React Server Components and TanStack Evolution6:04 - TanStack Start Overview and Vinci Transition11:26 - Nitro Integration and Framework Architecture15:19 - Server Functions and Framework Comparisons20:58 - API Design Philosophy24:19 - Testing and Development Process30:58 - Team and Collaboration Discussion33:38 - Open Source Sponsorship Strategy36:32 - Netlify Partnership Announcement38:37 - Open Source Sustainability Discussion41:03 - Picks and Plugs LinksProducts & Tools:TanStackVinxi by Nikhil SarafNitroReact RouterTRPCRemixH3 (web request library)XPro (Tweet Deck)Deck.blue (BlueSky client)MOTU M4 audio interfaceBamboo Lab A1 3D printerLashbrook Designs (Brad's wedding band)Companies & Sponsors:ConvexClerkAG GridSentryNetlifyGames & Entertainment:Blockus (board game)Severance (TV Show on Apple TV+)"First Lie Wins" (book)Personal Projects & Links:buildtwelve.com (Amy's project)Brad on BlueSky (@bradgaropy.com)Nozzle (Tanner's startup)Technical Resources:Babel Dead Code Elimination (by Pedro Katori)GitHub 3D Contribution Graph GeneratorReact Server Components documentationOther Projects Mentioned:Solid StartAstro
Is this your show?
Claim this listing to keep it up to date, reach guests who want to pitch you, and manage bookings with Guestify.
