Best Coding Over Cocktails Podcasts (2025)

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Case Study: Making the Most of a Production Team with Render Studios 19:15

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6d ago19:15

19:15

When you're working with an expert production team, you should expect them to ask you hard questions — particularly upfront in the planning stages. Those difficult questions aren't obstacles; they're what lead to a better final product. But knowing what to look for in a production partner and how to navigate the process can make all the difference …

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Get Out of Your Zip Code 15:48

21d ago15:48

15:48

In a creative slump? Hit the road - seriously. New places and new experiences stimulate your brain. They expose you to different ways of thinking, new cultures, and alternative approaches to solving problems. In this episode, we dig into why it's important to leave your zip code, both for personal growth and for your community's reputation. We shar…

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Book Clubs and Other Life Hacks 13:40

1M ago13:40

13:40

Think about how different perspectives create magic. The best friend groups, book clubs, and communities outside of work aren’t just “life hacks” or productivity tools — but what they offer is far more powerful. They support you, balance you, and push you to grow. The real value of shared-interest communities isn’t in everyone nodding along; it’s i…

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Case Study: Building Brand Awareness with Redhead 12:56

2M ago12:56

12:56

If you've ever wondered whether investing in brand awareness is actually worth it, this episode is for you. We dig into why brand awareness gets dismissed as too "soft" to measure, how to actually track it in meaningful ways, and why prioritizing it can transform your marketing results. The reality is simple: customers acquired through product mark…

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Get Selective With Your Social Media Strategy 16:09

2M ago16:09

16:09

Sometimes the best lessons come from losing something you thought you needed. When Karen lost her Facebook page and realized it wasn't the end of the world, it sparked a bigger conversation about how we approach social media strategy. The truth is, most of us are maintaining profiles on platforms that aren't moving the needle while scrambling to ke…

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How We Prioritize Our Day 18:26

3M ago18:26

18:26

If you’re like us, some days your desk looks like a command center. Other days, it looks like a scrap pile of to-do lists, personal reminders, and ideas in progress. The reality is, most of us don't have a perfect system for prioritization — and that's especially true when we're overwhelmed, which is ironically when we need one most.In this candid …

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Case Study: Video Marketing Trends with Render 18:32

3M ago18:32

18:32

Video marketing isn't what it used to be — and that's both exciting and overwhelming. Between short-form content, interactive features, immersive experiences, and personalized feeds, the landscape is evolving at breakneck speed. But here's the thing: tracking video trends isn't about keeping up with every shiny new feature. It's about staying strat…

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The Difference Between Affordable and Cheap 13:17

3M ago13:17

13:17

Every business has budget constraints, but here's what we've learned: cheap and affordable aren't the same thing. Cheap is about paying as little as possible; affordable is about getting the most value for the right price. One leaves you wanting more, the other leaves you satisfied with smart trade-offs that actually move your business forward.In t…

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The Danger of Jumping to Conclusions 16:37

4M ago16:37

16:37

We've all seen internet trolls who jump straight to outrage without understanding the full story. But here's the uncomfortable truth: We all do this sometimes. In our everyday work and relationships, we jump to conclusions, assign motives, or make decisions based on half the story. It's human nature to want to find an explanation and solve problems…

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Case Study: Brand Marketing with Redhead 20:21

4M ago20:21

20:21

Brand marketing vs. performance marketing. It's not about picking sides — it's about understanding the dance. Performance marketing drives the clicks and the sales, but brand marketing? That's the reason anyone cares in the first place.Here's what most people miss: these two approaches work better together than apart. Drawing insights from Nielsen …

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Quick, Send the Heads-Up Email 15:16

5M ago15:16

15:16

Here's what we know: People don't like surprises, especially unpleasant ones, and when information is missing, they'll fill in the gaps — rarely with generous assumptions. We break down why proactive communication with clients, your team, and even in your personal life feels harder than it should be, then share strategies for getting ahead of the n…

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The Bad and the Ugly 20:37

5M ago20:37

20:37

If you've ever felt like you need to have it all together before you can lead effectively, this episode is for you. No judgment here — we've all been there! In this candid conversation, we're sharing our own messy truths, from Jen's permanently grimy oven and abandoned Christmas card habit to Karen's perfectionism paralysis and lone wolf tendencies…

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Why Ongoing Budgets Beat One-Off Projects 18:58

6M ago18:58

18:58

If you’ve ever launched a website or video and walked away, this one’s for you. No worries, we’re not judging! It’s a common trap to fall into, and when you ignore it, it quickly becomes a pain to update. But in today’s world, where your brand story is always in motion, marketing needs to be treated as an ongoing, strategic effort. In this episode,…

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Color: Why Hue Matters in Marketing, Design & Video 11:29

6M ago11:29

11:29

Color isn’t just a finishing touch — it’s a strategic tool that influences perception, emotion, and behavior. In marketing and branding, it’s one of the first things people notice and one of the most powerful ways to communicate without saying a word. But great color doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention, skill, and an understanding of how…

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It Doesn't Work! 12:20

7M ago12:20

12:20

In our latest episode, we talk about why social media ads might not be delivering, when they can be effective (hint: brand-building > promotion), and why it’s critical to stop thinking of social media as your only marketing plan. We also challenge you to consider how you’d communicate your message if social media didn’t exist at all. From Super Bow…

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What Type of Brand Are You? (And Why the Distinction Matters) 17:00

7M ago17:00

17:00

Every brand has its own unique challenges — but not every brand should be approached the same way. In this episode, Jen shares four brand categories she and her team at Redhead work with most often: corporate, place-based, boutique, and entrepreneurial. From the layers of stakeholder input in corporate branding to the emotional nuance of placemakin…

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Micromanaging and Control: When To Let Things Go 17:23

8M ago17:23

17:23

No one likes a boss breathing down their neck — but when you're the one in charge, knowing how much oversight is too much can be tricky. In this episode, we dig into the blurry line between healthy control and full-blown micromanagement. From trust issues to outcome-based leadership, we explore how leaders can maintain structure and accountability …

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Lightning Round: What's Important 17:51

8M ago17:51

17:51

As entrepreneurs, creatives, and business leaders, we’re constantly making decisions — about strategies, budgets, and even where to focus our energy. But how often do we pause to ask: "Do I need this, or do I just want it?" In a world filled with tempting new tools, trends, and shiny distractions, knowing the difference can be the key to growth — o…

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Case Study: Storytelling Essentials with Render 15:53

9M ago15:53

15:53

Whether you’re crafting a brand message, delivering a speech, or simply trying to make an idea stick, the way you tell your story matters. Knowing your audience, embracing personality, and making messages actionable ensures that stories don’t just entertain — they inspire and drive real impact.Using Gustav Freytag’s classic story arc as a guide, Ka…

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Portraits of an Artist 54:29

9M ago54:29

54:29

This is a special episode featuring an interview with Shirley Wu from a brand-new podcast series, Portraits of an Artist. In this new series, Ryan Burgess explores the creative journeys of artists—diving deep into their process, inspirations, and the stories behind their work. In this conversation, Shirley shares her transition from software engine…

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Fighting Words: ‘Fire Your Comms Person’ 13:39

9M ago13:39

13:39

Many organizations rely on small, overburdened marketing and communications teams, expecting them to do it all and inadvertently setting them up to fail. In this episode, Jen and Karen challenge the traditional hiring model and explore why a fractional or agency-based strategy could be a smarter, more cost-effective solution.Tune in as we break it …

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Clients You Can't Help But Love 10:11

10M ago10:11

10:11

This week’s topic is all about appreciation. After all, who do we love more than our clients? Their trust, collaboration, and vision make our work possible, allowing us to take on impactful projects that drive real change. Beyond just delivering services, we’re deeply invested in their success, fostering relationships built on communication and sha…

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Case Study: Redhead's 25th Anniversary 22:39

10M ago22:39

22:39

In this episode, Jen and Karen reflect on Redhead's 25-year path of growth and reinvention, from its beginnings as a small freelance graphic design business to a powerhouse of strategic brand consulting. They explore how the company has evolved while staying true to its core belief: that a strong, authentic brand identity is the foundation of succe…

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Pet Projects & Why They Matter 12:02

11M ago12:02

12:02

Pet projects are more than hobbies — they’re a lifeline for creativity and connection. In the fast-paced world of deadlines and deliverables, carving out time for passion-driven work can energize teams, spark innovation, and foster camaraderie. These pursuits allow space to experiment, fail, and grow, creating a culture that values more than just p…

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Resolutions Done Right 13:30

11M ago13:30

13:30

It’s a new year, which means culture is telling us it’s time to write resolutions. But hard refreshes aren’t for everyone. (We believe cold turkey is best served as a sandwich after Thanksgiving instead.) For some, however, this can be an ideal time to set intentions and plot paths for growth. So: What’s on the horizon for 2025, and what do we want…

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Case Study: Filming Far and Wide with Render Studios 20:06

12M ago20:06

20:06

Traveling across the country to collaborate with clients and bring their visions to life through expert storytelling and dynamic production? That’s Render Studios’s bread and butter.That said, coordinating large-scale film projects across multiple locations is a process that goes far beyond capturing great footage alone. From managing remote locati…

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Opportunity is Not a Pie 13:01

12M ago13:01

13:01

Have you ever met an entrepreneur who views networking as a solo sport? It’s surprising, especially in the service business world, where relationships are the foundation of success. In this episode, we explore how collaboration and generosity can strengthen your network, your reputation, and ultimately, your opportunities. Sharing a "give first" ap…

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Tall Orders, Quick Turnarounds 16:59

1y ago16:59

16:59

There’s an art to navigating tricky projects while maintaining high standards and delivering exceptional service. Whether you're navigating a tight deadline or dealing with evolving client demands, success in these scenarios often comes down to communication and trust.When tasked with a project that’s more of a sprint than a marathon, maintaining c…

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Beyond the Bingo Card: Leadership Lessons with Karen Catlin 52:08

1y ago52:08

52:08

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour, we’re joined by Karen to dive into an essential conversation about allyship and inclusion in the tech industry. We discuss what it means to actively support underrepresented groups, the challenges of fostering genuine inclusivity, and practical ways to make an impact as allies. From actionable advice to thou…

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Being an Intentional Mother When You’re an Entrepreneur 16:28

1y ago16:28

16:28

A lesson shared by many entrepreneurs and parents is this: Time is limited, and you can’t do everything all the time for everyone. Combine that truth with the knowledge that every stage of your children’s development requires an entirely different playbook of parenting skills, and it's easy to lose sight of any plans you made to intentionally showi…

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Revisiting Server-Driven UI: Scalable Approaches in Large Companies 57:35

1y ago57:35

57:35

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour, we explore the benefits and challenges of Server-Driven UI, especially in the context of large-scale applications. Join us as we discuss how this approach impacts front-end development, enhances flexibility, and scales effectively within big companies. Whether you’re curious about its implementation or looki…

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Recruiting to Global Leadership: Taylor Desseyn Interview 57:16

1y ago57:16

57:16

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour’s Sips of Wisdom, Ryan Burgess sits down with Taylor Desseyn, a long-time recruiter turned leader, to discuss his exciting new leadership role and his approach to building global communities. Taylor shares insights from his 13+ years of experience recruiting engineers and how he’s transitioned into a role foc…

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Is Your Creative Tank Full? 15:59

1y ago15:59

15:59

Creative burnout is something many face. In this episode, we dive into how to recognize the signs and navigate through it. Whether it’s struggling to focus, feeling uninspired, or simply pushing too hard without taking time to recharge, burnout can stop creativity in its tracks.Learning the tell-tale signals that it’s time to step back and refuel n…

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Scaling Startups and Navigating Product-Market Fit with Emre Baran 50:27

1y ago50:27

50:27

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour, we sit down with Emre Baran, Co-founder and CEO of Cerbos, to dive deep into the world of startups, product-market fit, and scaling a tech company. With over 20 years of experience, Emre’s journey includes building Turkey’s largest social network, contributing to $1 billion in revenue at Google, and now tack…

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Amazon’s Office Mandate: The End of Remote Work? 44:16

1y ago44:16

44:16

We dive into Amazon’s recent decision to end its hybrid work policy and require employees to return to the office five days a week. We discuss the impact of this decision on both Amazon employees and the broader tech industry. Is this the beginning of the end for remote work, or will other companies continue to offer flexibility? Join Ryan, Jem, an…

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Case Study: MI Children’s Savings Accounts for CEDAM 20:27

1y ago20:27

20:27

In our latest case study, we dive into Redhead’s work supporting the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) on marketing for the Michigan Children’s Savings Account Network. The Network, consisting of 17 programs across the state, aims to help students save for their postsecondary education through Children's Savings Account…

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Episode 211 - Ken Wheeler Unfiltered - Sips of Wisdom Interview 54:37

1y ago54:37

54:37

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour, Ryan Burgess sits down with Ken Wheeler for a no-holds-barred conversation about the tech industry’s evolution and what it really takes to succeed. From starting out as a butcher and telemarketer to making waves in Silicon Valley, Ken shares his unfiltered thoughts on everything from early career struggles t…

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Episode 210 - Film to Tech - Jason Torres Sips of Wisdom Interview 47:54

1y ago47:54

47:54

In this Sips of Wisdom episode of Front End Happy Hour, Ryan Burgess interviews Jason Torres, who made the bold leap from a 15-year career in the film industry to becoming a software developer. They discuss the surprising similarities between film and tech, the challenges of transitioning careers, and how Jason’s creative skills translated into the…

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Are You Doing the Task or Solving the Problem? 13:39

1y ago13:39

13:39

In this episode, we’re exploring the difference between task-oriented and objective-oriented thinking. Focusing on the task at hand may feel like less mental labor, but it's important to remember that tasks are only one part of addressing a larger challenge. By aligning your work with the larger objective, you'll not only accomplish more but also a…

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Episode 209 - How promotions really work in tech 46:54

1y ago46:54

46:54

In this episode of the Front End Happy Hour podcast, we’re diving deep into the realities of getting promoted in the tech industry. It’s not just about writing great code or being the smartest person in the room. Jem Young, Augustus Yuan, and Ryan Burgess break down the misconceptions around promotions, the skills that actually matter, and why navi…

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Episode 208 - Why most new developers struggle: The missing skills you need 49:51

1y ago49:51

49:51

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour, Ryan Burgess, Jem Young, Brian Holt, and Dan DiGangi dive deep into the challenges faced by junior developers as they embark on their coding journeys. From the importance of curiosity and continuous learning to the often overlooked non-technical skills, our panelists discuss the common gaps that new develope…

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What Are Your Growth Options When You Feel Like You’re at the Top? 15:01

1y ago15:01

15:01

In this episode, we dive into the dilemma of reaching the top and wondering, "Am I done yet?" Spoiler alert: not quite. We explore that feeling of having climbed the career ladder, only to find the horizon still stretching far and wide. When you’ve hit your goals and the view from the top is fantastic, what’s next?We discuss the signs of burnout, t…

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Episode 207 - Sips of Wisdom: Interview with Kent C. Dodds 50:23

1+ y ago50:23

50:23

In this episode, we dive into the remarkable career journey of Kent C. Dodds, a passionate educator and entrepreneur. Kent shares insights from his early days in programming, his transition from working at PayPal to becoming a full-time educator, and the creation of his successful educational platforms like Epic React and Epic Web. We explore the c…

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Episode 206 - What is it like to work in Silicon Valley? 48:02

1+ y ago48:02

48:02

In this episode, we explore the unique experiences of living and working in Silicon Valley. From the culture shock of constant tech talk and startup hustle to the surprising realities of company perks and the intense work environment, our panelists share their personal stories and insights. Whether you're curious about the career opportunities or t…

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Case Study: Render Video Distribution 22:28

1+ y ago22:28

22:28

When it comes to video marketing, the key to maximizing reach and enhancing brand visibility is starting with a solid distribution strategy. Whether earned, owned, or paid, each channel requires a different approach to craft a video that resonates with a distinct audience.Measuring the effectiveness of these strategies is crucial to ensuring that e…

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Episode 205 - After attending a coding Bootcamp 51:02

1+ y ago51:02

51:02

In this episode of Front End Happy Hour, we're joined by Shashi Lo, a Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft, to explore our thoughts on the journey after attending a engineers complete a bootcamp. Shashi shares his experiences mentoring self-taught developers and bootcamp graduates, discussing the skills that are often missing and the creative ways…

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Episode 204 - Sips of Wisdom: Interview with Angie Jones 52:09

1+ y ago52:09

52:09

In this episode, we dive into the career journey of Angie Jones, the Global Vice President of Developer Relations at Block. Angie shares her experiences transitioning from a Senior Software Engineer at Twitter to leading developer relations initiatives at Applitools and now at Block. Angie also provides insights on the future of developer relations…

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When Should You Not Play by the Rules? 17:00

1+ y ago17:00

17:00

Carving out your own path as a business owner demands a little rule breaking from time to time. Whether it’s a social norm or personal directive, it’s easy for our ways of being to spiral down the rabbit hole from routine to rule to barrier to success. If you find yourself stuck in that place, it’s time to start poking holes in your modus operandi.…

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Episode 203 - Normalize taking a break 57:38

1+ y ago57:38

57:38

In this episode, we dive into the topic of taking a sabbatical and its impact on personal and professional life. Our special guest, Jennifer Tieu, a front-end developer at a Web3 agency, joins us to share her experience of taking a break from work, the challenges she faced, and the insights she gained. Panelists Ryan Burgess and Cole Turner also di…

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Episode 202 - Summer vacation - Online teaching courses 53:39

1+ y ago53:39

53:39

While the Front End Happy Hour crew takes a much needed summer break, we revisit the topic of online education with Josh W. Comeau, who’s had a lot of experience teaching courses to help share his knowledge with us on how we can create an online course.Items mentioned in the episode:Josh W. Comeau, Josh’s online courses, Hands-Free CodingGuests:Jos…