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Updating developer tools is essential for developers who want to stay efficient, secure, and competitive. In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore how maintaining modern toolsets helps individuals and teams deliver better software, faster. With support from AI-generated analysis and real-world experience, they outline the risks of falling behind—and how to move forward.
Listen to the full episode of Building Better Developers with AI for practical insights and ideas you can start applying today.
Efficiency and Profitability When Updating Developer ToolsAI captured the core message well: using outdated tools slows down delivery, creates unnecessary friction, and ultimately reduces profitability. For side hustlers and teams alike, this loss of efficiency can make or break a project.
Rob pointed out that many developers begin their careers using only basic tools. Without proper exposure to modern IDEs like IntelliJ, Visual Studio Code, or Eclipse, they miss out on powerful features such as debugging tools, plugin support, container integration, and real-time collaboration.
Warning Signs You Should Be Updating Developer ToolsHow do you know it’s time to update your development tools? Rob and Michael discussed key red flags:
Frequent crashes or poor performance Lack of support for modern languages or frameworks Weak integration with tools like GitHub Actions or Docker Outdated or unsupported plugins Inconsistent tooling across team membersNeglecting to update developer tools can lead to slow onboarding, poor collaboration, and increased bugs—especially in fast-paced or regulated environments.
Tool Standardization vs. Flexibility When Updating ToolsThere’s a balance between letting developers choose their tools and ensuring consistency across a team. While personal comfort can boost productivity, it may also cause challenges when teams debug or collaborate.
Rob and Michael recommend hosting internal hackathons to explore new toolchains or standardize workflows. These events give teams a structured way to evaluate tools and share findings.
The Security Risk of Not Updating Developer ToolsMichael highlighted that outdated tooling doesn’t just slow developers down—it creates serious security and compliance risks. Being just one or two versions behind can open vulnerabilities that violate standards like HIPPA, OWASP or SOX.
Regular updates to SDKs, plugins, and IDEs are essential for staying compliant, especially in sensitive industries like finance or healthcare.
How to Evaluate New Tools Before Updating Developer ToolchainsRob offered a practical framework for evaluating new tools:
Does it solve a real pain point? Start with a side project or proof of concept. Check for strong community support and documentation. Balance between stable and innovative.Michael added a note of caution: avoid adopting tools with little community activity or long-term support. If a GitHub project has only a couple of contributors and poor maintenance, it’s a red flag.
Developer Tools to Review and Update RegularlyTo keep your development environment current, Rob suggested reviewing these tool categories often:
IDEs and code editors Version control tools CI/CD systems and build automation Testing and QA frameworks Package managers and dependency systems Containerization and environment management platformsUsing AI to convert simple apps into different frameworks can also help evaluate new tools—just make sure not to share proprietary code.
Final ThoughtsModern development demands modern tooling. From cleaner code to faster deployment and stronger team collaboration, the benefits of updating developer tools are clear. Whether you’re an independent developer or part of a larger organization, regularly reviewing and upgrading your toolset is a habit worth forming.
Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur CommunityWe invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at [email protected] with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.
Additional Resources Navigating Communication Tools in Modern Workplaces Building a Portable Development Environment That is OS-agnostic Modern Tools For Monetizing Content Updating Developer Tools: Keeping Your Tools Sharp and Efficient Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of Building Better Developers, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore how to improve team collaboration in software development through the lens of AI-driven insights. Whether you’re a solo developer, part of a tight-knit team, or scaling across departments, collaboration remains the backbone of efficiency and success.
What Does Collaboration Mean in Development?AI kicked off the discussion with a powerful insight: define “efficiency” in context. But more importantly, it highlighted that collaboration fuels efficiency, not just working faster, but working better.
Effective collaboration avoids:
Redundant work Misunderstood requirements Tech debt and burnoutRob emphasized that a productive team isn’t rushing through tasks but solving the correct problems—together—on the first try.
Collaboration Strategies for Solo DevelopersEven solo developers need structured collaboration between their tools, their future selves, and their automation stack.
Top collaboration tips for independent devs:
Use opinionated frameworks like Next.js or Rails to minimize decision fatigue. Automate repetitive tasks early to save time in the long run. Commit code regularly with meaningful messages. Document workflows using Notion, Obsidian, or Jira—even if you’re the only one using them. Containerize development environments for repeatability and rapid setup.“Solo doesn’t mean siloed. Collaborate with your tools, your past decisions, and future goals.”
Enhancing Collaboration in Small Development TeamsFor teams of 2–10 developers, Rob and Michael discussed how tight feedback loops and structured communication are essential to avoid chaos.
Recommended practices for small team collaboration:
Short, focused daily standups Shared development environments Lightweight Agile or Kanban boards Early investment in CI/CD pipelines Use of pair programming or mob programming for knowledge sharingMichael emphasized Agile’s power in synchronizing team efforts, avoiding duplicated work, and solving problems more efficiently as a unit.
“Agile helps teams collaborate—not just communicate. It keeps everyone moving in the same direction.”
Solving Common Bottlenecks TogetherAI highlighted four universal collaboration pain points and solutions:
Slow Code Reviews - Use SLAs and rotate reviewers Unclear Requirements - Kick off with 15-minute clarification huddles Testing Paralysis - Focus on integration tests and avoid overtesting Context Switching - Block dedicated focus hoursMichael zeroed in on testing paralysis, especially in early-stage projects, where developers are too busy scaffolding to write tests. Without collaboration on testing plans, critical issues may be overlooked until it is too late.
Rob addressed context switching, warning against excessive meetings that fragment developer flow. Leads should shield devs from distraction by delivering distilled, actionable feedback.
Final Thoughts on Collaborative DevelopmentAs teams grow, minor issues scale fast, and so do inefficiencies. Tools, meetings, workflows, and expectations must all scale intentionally. Rob reminded leaders to summarize and distill information before passing it to their teams and to make clever use of tools like AI, recordings, and summaries to keep everyone aligned without wasting time.
“If you’re building better developers, you’re also building better collaborators.”
Take Action: Build Collaboration Into Your Workflow Reassess your standups and review cycles Empower solo devs with documentation and CI/CD Streamline onboarding with containers Test early, test together Protect team focus time Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur CommunityWe invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at [email protected] with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.
Additional Resources Embrace Feedback for Better Teams Using Offshore Teams and Resources – Interview With Tanika De Souza Moving To Mobile Teams and Building Them – Sebastian Schieke Building Better Developers With AI Podcast Videos – With Bonus Content -
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In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche tackle a challenge that many modern developers face: navigating multiple software methodologies. With insights shaped by both real-world experience and AI-generated suggestions, the discussion reveals how developers can stay effective when juggling Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, and hybrid workflows.
Understanding Common Software MethodologiesThe episode begins with an overview of today’s most widely used software methodologies: Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, Kanban, DevOps, and SAFe. Rob and Michael highlight that developers often switch between these within the same organization or even across concurrent projects, depending on client requirements, legacy constraints, or team structure.
The result? A dynamic but complex work environment that demands both technical and mental agility.
The Challenge of Switching Software MethodologiesThe core challenge is staying productive while adapting to different software methodologies across teams and projects.
Developers face more than just a change in process—they often deal with different toolsets, coding standards, sprint cadences, and collaboration models. This constant context switching can drain mental resources.
“It’s like being bilingual,” Michael explains. “If you’re not fluent in a method, switching is exhausting.”
Even development tools play a role. Some developers separate projects by using different IDEs to help them mentally shift gears between methodologies.
Clarifying ‘Done’ in Software MethodologiesRob and Michael explore a common point of contention: the definition of “done.” In Agile, it often means feature-ready for review or feedback. In Waterfall, it usually means final and locked.
“You’ll start a war in a meeting just asking what ‘done’ means,” Rob quips.
Michael uses a cooking analogy to explain the importance of clear expectations: requirements are the recipe, code is the ingredients, and the finished product must match what was promised. Without agreement on what “done” means for each software methodology, delivery and testing become chaotic.
Adapting to Different Software MethodologiesTo truly thrive, developers must move from a methodology purist to an adaptive mindset, focusing on the value being delivered rather than the rigidity of a particular framework.
“Don’t serve the methodology. Serve the customer,” Rob emphasizes.
Michael reminds us to avoid getting lost in small details, like UI color tweaks, when more critical features remain incomplete. Staying aligned with the end goal ensures that effort translates into real progress, regardless of methodology.
Documenting Within Software MethodologiesIn teams that use multiple software methodologies, documentation often becomes fragmented or overly complex. Rob and Michael both stress that great developers learn to write “just enough” documentation—and keep it in one place.
Michael offers a best practice: let the codebase be the source of truth. Embedding JavaDocs, comments, or changelogs within the code ensures that updates stay consistent with the actual implementation. It reduces dependency on separate, often outdated documentation tools.
“If your code and documentation don’t match, one of them is lying,” Michael warns.
Key Takeaways on Software Methodologies Understand core methodologies — Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, and hybrids Support healthy context switching — Use tools and routines that help you adapt Align on ‘done’ — Define it clearly with your team Focus on outcomes — Avoid getting stuck in rigid process rules Document just enough — And keep it close to your code Be Adaptable, Stay FocusedTo succeed across software methodologies, developers must be flexible, clear, and focused on delivering value.
Rather than being loyal to a single framework, the best developers understand the principles behind them all. They communicate effectively, manage context switches efficiently, and utilize smart documentation to keep projects aligned. When you serve the goal—not just the process—you become a truly adaptive developer.
Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur CommunityWe invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at [email protected] with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.
Additional Resources Learn From CoWorkers: Interview with Douglas Squirrel Rock Bottom Can Be a Starting Line Invest In Your Team – They Will Want To Stay Building Better Developers With AI – With Bonus Content -
In software development, the real challenge often isn’t coding—it’s solving the right problems. In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche tackle one of the most overlooked but costly traps in tech: solving problems in software projects that don’t need solving, while missing the ones that do.
With the help of AI, they explore why teams often get stuck fixing symptoms instead of addressing root causes, launching features that don’t matter, or optimizing performance before users even exist. Through candid examples and sharp insights, they demonstrate how developers can shift their mindset to deliver meaningful and lasting solutions.
Solving Problems in Software Projects with AIThis episode begins with a lighthearted intro: No, AI won’t send killer robots to your house—but it can help you become a better developer. Rob and Michael let AI help set the topic: solving problems in software projects without actually solving the problem.
They explain how developers often confuse motion with progress. Writing code doesn’t mean you’re building value. Launching a feature doesn’t mean it’s needed. These illusions create technical debt and user frustration.
Michael compares this to marketing tricks, such as offering gift cards to attract users instead of improving the site to keep them engaged.
Solving the Right Problem in Software ProjectsA quote from Einstein sets the tone: “If I had an hour to solve a problem, I’d spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem.” Rob and Michael emphasize the importance of understanding before acting. Too many developers rush to fix bugs without asking: What’s broken? What does the user expect?
Michael draws on insights from Dan Heath’s "Upstream" to emphasize the importance of preventing issues, rather than just reacting to them. Effective developers think ahead and solve problems at the source—not just in the code, but in the system design and user flow.
Avoid Quick Fixes When Solving Problems in Software ProjectsRob warns against “band-aid fixes”—temporary solutions, such as increasing timeouts or adding unnecessary features. These surface-level patches don’t address the core issue and often exacerbate the problem.
Michael provides examples from the gaming world and enterprise software, highlighting instances where shipping buggy systems is done solely to meet a deadline, only to spend months patching them. Instead, they advocate for delivering a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that truly addresses user needs.
Why Listening Solves More Than Writing CodeMichael shares a powerful technique: shut up and let your customer talk. Developers often assume they understand the problem after hearing a few words. But real insights come from listening deeply and asking open-ended questions.
Rob adds that great discovery comes from dialogue. Clients often reveal critical needs casually—things you’d never hear if you rushed through the requirements checklist.
Strategic Planning vs Feature BloatPlanning is vital, but discipline is equally important. Michael recommends an early brainstorm to throw every idea on the table. Then, trim down ruthlessly to only what’s needed for your MVP.
Rob warns against premature optimization: spending hours adjusting colors and layout before functionality is in place. Significant development is about timing—doing the right work at the right stage.
Final Thoughts on Solving Problems in Software ProjectsThe episode concludes with a call to action: focus on outcomes, not output. Don’t measure your value by lines of code or number of features. Measure it by the clarity, stability, and usefulness of the solution you deliver.
Sometimes, the best move is to slow down, ask more questions, and think more deeply. Rushing to implement can lead to rework and frustration. Thoughtful, deliberate problem-solving builds better developers and better software.
Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur CommunityWe invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at [email protected] with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.
Additional Resources One Offs, Side Projects, and Veering From Standards Setting Realistic Expectations In Development The Importance of Properly Defining Requirements Building Better Developers With AI – With Bonus Content -
Welcome to a fresh season of the Building Better Developers podcast—Building Better Developers with AI. In this AI-assisted episode, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche revisit a fan-favorite discussion, now viewed through a modern lens. The focus? The transformation in mindset and skills involved in the journey of coding vs. developing.
“We’re feeding past seasons into AI—and seeing where it takes us.” – Rob Broadhead
Coding vs. Developing: Shifting the MindsetAt the heart of becoming a developer, not just a coder, is a shift in mindset—coders complete tasks. Developers solve problems. AI reinforces this by highlighting the importance of outcome ownership rather than task completion. This is one of the most essential transitions from a coder to a developer.
“A developer doesn’t just solve the problem—they find the best way to solve it.” – Rob
Michael notes that while time and budget can constrain developers, understanding the purpose behind the task is what separates coding vs. developing.
Problem Framing in Coding vs. DevelopingDevelopers don’t jump into code. They ask questions, define success criteria, and understand the "why." Michael discusses how reading and challenging ticket requirements upfront is critical to producing valuable outcomes, a significant step in your development journey.
“Clarifying requirements early avoids disaster later.” – Michael
Pattern Recognition and Abstraction in Software DevelopmentGreat developers look for patterns they can abstract and reuse. Whether it's a function, a test module, or a reusable page object, this step is a defining trait of developing over coding. Rob links this to product creation, citing examples of tools that evolved from personal needs.
Michael adds perspective from testing, showing how modular thinking and reusable components streamline the development lifecycle—another key difference between a developer and a coder.
Product Thinking and CollaborationAnother significant leap in the evolution of coding versus developing is thinking like a product owner. Developers who consider user interactions, usability, and feedback loops offer far more value. Rob emphasizes that collaboration with non-technical teams is essential.
“You can’t build a successful product in a silo.” – Rob
Michael notes this is one area where AI currently falls short—human empathy and cross-functional understanding still matter.
Innovation Through Constraints and DebuggingDevelopers thrive under constraints. Rob encourages listeners to view limitations, such as time and budget, as opportunities for creativity. He also highlights debugging as a learning opportunity—a true hallmark of coding vs. developing.
“If you hate debugging, development may not be for you.” – Rob
Feedback Loops and Developer GrowthModern developers rely on data and feedback—logs, metrics, user behavior—to iterate and improve. Rob champions a mindset of "release, observe, learn, improve." This continuous loop separates developers from coders, highlighting the core difference between coding and developing.
Final Thought: Coding vs. Developing for Business SuccessThe season opener wraps with reminders that technology is just a tool. Developers think critically, adapt, and aim to solve business problems—not just write code. That’s the essence of coding vs. developing.
“You're solving a problem—not playing with a shiny new tool.” – Rob
Stay Connected: Join the Develpreneur CommunityWe invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at [email protected] with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.
Additional Resources Coder or Developer – Learning To Solve Problems Tools to Separate Developers from Coders Start A Developer Career – Interview With Robert Cooke Building Better Developers With AI – With Bonus Content -
Welcome to a new season of the Building Better Developers podcast! Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche return with a fresh twist—this time, they’re putting artificial intelligence in the co-pilot seat. In Season 25, titled “Building Better Developers with AI,” the team explores how AI can shape, support, and sometimes challenge the development journey. Whether you’re AI-curious or just trying to keep up, this season promises something for every mid-level developer looking to grow.
Why Start a Season on Building Better Developers with AI?As Rob explains in the episode opener, the idea for the season was sparked by a playful experiment: using ChatGPT to generate potential season topics. What started as a brainstorming tool quickly turned into something bigger.
“Let’s actually use AI to shape the season—ask it what topics we should cover and see where it leads.”
AI suggested several solid themes, many of which the podcast had tackled before—security, dev tools, career development—but what stood out was the AI’s suggestion itself: a season dedicated to AI for developers.
“AI for the Rest of Us”: A New Way to Build Better DevelopersThe team quickly aligned on a theme: AI for the Rest of Us. It’s not about diving into PhD-level machine learning models. Instead, this season will focus on making AI practical, accessible, and even a little fun.
Callout:🧠 “No math hats, no buzzword fatigue. Just real talk about how developers like you can start using AI today.”
The tone is set: casual, educational, and aimed squarely at mid-level developers who are AI novices. You’ll get hands-on insights, helpful examples, and real-world scenarios—without drowning in jargon.
Episode 1 Recap: What is AI Really?The season’s kickoff episode breaks down the basics of AI in plain English. Rob and Michael highlight the difference between AI, machine learning, and deep learning, using helpful analogies like:
Traditional code = a recipe AI = a chef who figures out the recipe by tasting the dishThey also explore how AI already shows up in daily dev life—autocomplete, spam filters, Netflix recommendations—and how it’s not a sci-fi robot sent to take your job.
Using AI to Help You Become a Better DeveloperOne of the most relatable parts of the discussion? Prompting AI.
Michael describes it perfectly: “It’s like training Dragon NaturallySpeaking—you have to teach it how you think.” And Rob adds that AI is training you right back, forcing you to clarify your logic and expectations.
Of course, they also call out the traps: circular responses, hallucinated facts, or confusing code suggestions. That’s where the human developer still shines—you have to know enough to spot when something’s off.
“This season’s focus on Building Better Developers with AI is designed to bridge the gap between curiosity and confidence for mid-level developers.”
Avoiding Pitfalls While Building Better Developers with AIMichael reminds listeners that AI-generated code is not gospel. If you’re grabbing command-line scripts or security-related suggestions:
🔥 “Don’t blindly copy and paste. Test, research, and verify—AI is smart, but it’s not foolproof.”
Even reputable sources have typos. Think of AI as a helpful assistant—not a replacement for your own judgment.
Rob reinforces this: “You still need to understand what you’re solving. AI can help, but it can’t think for you.”
AI Tools That Help Developers Build Smarter, Not HarderAs the episode wraps, Rob and Michael commit to a unique experiment: use AI to revisit past topics from earlier seasons and see how it responds. Think of it as “season replays—with AI commentary.” The plan? Re-explore core themes and challenges, but now with AI in the conversation.
It’s a brilliant blend of retrospection and innovation—and a perfect way to highlight how Building Better Developers with AI can evolve the development journey.
Final ThoughtsSeason 25 is shaping up to be equal parts enlightening and entertaining. Whether you’re testing your first prompt, integrating ChatGPT into your dev flow, or just curious about what all the buzz is about, “Building Better Developers with AI” is your safe, informative, and occasionally hilarious entry point into the world of artificial intelligence for developers.
Stay tuned, and remember: AI might be smart, but developers still rule the keyboard.
Final ThoughtsSeason 25 is shaping up to be equal parts enlightening and entertaining. Whether you’re testing your first prompt, integrating ChatGPT into your dev flow, or just curious about what all the buzz is about, “Building Better Developers with AI” is your safe, informative, and occasionally hilarious entry point into the world of artificial intelligence for developers.
Stay tuned, and remember: AI might be smart, but developers still rule the keyboard.
Stay Connected: Join the Develpreneur CommunityWe invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at [email protected] with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.
Additional Resources Leveraging AI for Business: How Automation and AI Boost Efficiency and Growth Business Automation and Templates: How to Streamline Your Workflow Better AI Prompts For Improved Efficiency Building Better Developers With AI – With Bonus Content -
Building better businesses is the focus of this season of the Building Better Developers podcast. As the show wraps up, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche reflect on what it truly takes to grow and sustain a successful business. With episodes packed full of real-world advice, the season offered an honest look at the balance between managing operations and planning for long-term growth.
Whether you’re running a startup or scaling a consulting firm, the challenges discussed this season are highly relatable, and the insights are actionable.
Smart Strategies for Building Better BusinessesThis season delivered a broad spectrum of ideas—from improving customer support systems to deciding when to hire or outsource. Rob and Michael emphasized both short-term wins and longer-term initiatives that can set a business on a more sustainable path.
“It’s all about making your business better—whether that’s better processes or better planning.” – Rob Broadhead
By encouraging listeners to apply lessons week by week, the season became a roadmap for identifying and fixing critical business gaps.
Automation and Resetting for Business FocusOne of the season’s strongest messages came from Michael’s personal experience: getting stuck in the day-to-day grind. Like many tech-focused founders, he spent so much time coding and serving clients that back-office responsibilities were pushed aside.
“You have to reset. I was doing the work, but I wasn’t taking care of the business.” – Michael Meloche
Turning off notifications and eliminating distractions helped him reclaim time and focus on strategic areas, such as hiring, finances, and operations.
Challenge-Based Insights for Better GrowthEach episode featured a unique challenge—practical steps like refreshing your website or reviewing your marketing channels. Rob noted that simply blocking calendar time to work on these areas made a noticeable difference.
These challenges weren’t theoretical—they were tools for building structure and momentum in a growing business.
By applying even one challenge a week, listeners could steadily improve their systems and habits.
Work-Life Balance and Building Better BusinessesAnother theme that resonated strongly was the need for rest and recovery. Michael shared his struggle with feeling guilty for taking time off, only to find that stepping away actually increased his productivity.
“If you don’t take care of yourself, it’s like skipping oil changes—eventually the engine gives out.” – Michael Meloche
This conversation reinforced that health and mindset are just as crucial to a business as any product or service.
Remote Work and Office CultureAs businesses shift post-pandemic, the debate over remote vs. in-office work persists. Rob and Michael explored the trade-offs of both environments, acknowledging that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
“You need to do what’s right for the business, the team, and the customer.” – Michael Meloche
Balancing flexibility with connection is an ongoing challenge that every business must navigate in alignment with its mission and culture.
Final Thoughts: Keep Building Better Businesses Every DayRob closed the episode with a powerful reminder: every business is a living system with competing demands. Just like software, it requires constant attention, updates, and realignment to continue functioning properly.
“There’s a business-business balance too—not just work-life balance. Find your ‘why,’ and let it guide your decisions.” – Rob Broadhead
Not every episode will apply to every business stage, but together, they form a comprehensive guide for those committed to growth and leadership.
📩 Keep Building BetterSubscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Have feedback or questions? Reach out at [email protected]—the team would love to hear from you!
🎧 Revisit episodes that speak to your current challenges Building Better Businesses: Introduction to Season 24 Business Finance Management: Building Better Businesses for Success Overcoming Barriers To Starting A Business: Why Haven’t You Started Yet? Elevator Pitch Strategies: Perfect Your Pitch and Boost Your Brand Scaling with Contractors and Employees: A Strategic Guide to Business Growth Hiring Talent: Strategies for Building Strong Teams Business Automation and Templates: How to Streamline Your Workflow Leveraging AI for Business: How Automation and AI Boost Efficiency and Growth Business Growth Strategies: When and How to Scale Successfully Work-Life Balance Strategies: Setting Boundaries for a Healthier Life Disaster Recovery Plan: Protecting Your Business from Unexpected Threats Business Continuity: Keeping Your Business Running When Life Happens Business Networking Strategies: How to Build Real Relationships That Grow Your Business How to Succeed with Digital Marketing for Small Businesses Product Placement Strategy: How to Position Your Product or Service for Success Product Enhancement Strategies: How to Add Value Without Adding Bloat How to Build a Sustainable Business: From Idea to Execution Pitching Your Business: Start Conversations That Drive Growth Customer Communication Strategies: How To Improve Client Interactions Building Customer Trust in Business: Turning Mistakes into Opportunities Why Setting Deadlines Is the Key to Successful Projects PTO Taking Breaks: Why You Need More Than a Long Weekend How to Build a Minimal Viable Product Without Blowing Your Budget Stop Chasing Your Tail: How To Reset Your Progress Without Panicking How to Demo Your Product and Get Feedback That Matters Reading the Room: The Leadership Skill That Sets You Apart Off the Rails in Business: Reclaim Your Time and Sanity Impostor Syndrome: Simple Ways to Reclaim Your Confidence Business Tune-Up Checklist: How to Refresh, Refocus, and Reignite Mid-Year Why Retrospectives Matter: Learning from the Past to Build Better Businesses Upgrading Your Business: Save Time And Improve Efficiency Remote vs In-Office: Finding the Right Fit for Your Business YouTube: Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore the topic of remote vs in-office work. As workplace dynamics continue to shift, they discuss how leaders and employees alike can evaluate which setup—remote, in-person, or hybrid—best supports true productivity and team culture. Drawing from personal experiences and client stories, they offer a balanced, actionable perspective for navigating this ongoing workplace debate.
Remote vs In-Office Work and Company Culture: Collaboration at a Cost?The heart of the discussion centers around a key question: Which work model enables better results—remote or in-office? Rob explains that the answer isn’t universal. While some workers thrive in a quiet home office, others are more engaged and effective in a collaborative, physical environment. Understanding which model best suits your team and role is the first step toward optimizing performance.
Callout:“It’s not about where you work—it’s about how productive you are in that environment.”
Hybrid Solutions in the Remote vs In-Office Work DebateMichael highlights the benefits of remote work with a real-world example: a previous role where he managed automated testing over weekends. Working from home allowed him to complete more than 60 hours of productive work while avoiding commutes and unnecessary meetings. He notes that remote work supports flexibility and work-life balance—when paired with strong expectations.
However, companies often struggle with remote operations due to poor policy implementation. Without clear rules for communication, availability, and professionalism, remote teams can quickly become disorganized.
Key Insight:“Remote work only works well when you create structure around it.”
In-Office Work: Culture, Collaboration, and SpontaneityWhile remote work offers many benefits, Rob defends the value of being physically present in the office. He explains that office environments enable spontaneous collaboration, faster feedback, and a stronger sense of culture. These moments—like hallway conversations and impromptu brainstorming—are difficult to replicate remotely.
Still, he warns that office settings aren’t always efficient. Endless meetings, distractions, and “looking busy” can hurt productivity. The key is intentional use of in-person time to build relationships and align on priorities.
Quote from Rob:“Sometimes being in the office just means more talking about work—not doing it.”
Hybrid Work: The Best of Both Worlds?The hosts discuss hybrid work as a potential compromise in the remote vs in-office work debate. Hybrid models allow team members to balance deep, focused work at home with occasional in-person meetings for collaboration. Michael notes that occasional in-office days—such as once per quarter—can be enough to build trust and team cohesion without draining productivity.
However, they caution that hybrid setups require even more planning. Rules for attendance, virtual etiquette, and meeting structure must be clearly defined to prevent confusion and burnout.
Leadership and Culture in Any ModelBoth Rob and Michael emphasize that strong leadership and a defined company culture are essential—regardless of where work takes place. Businesses must provide guidance on video etiquette, work schedules, and productivity expectations. Whether employees are remote, in-office, or hybrid, leadership must equip them to succeed in their specific environments.
Callout:“Success comes from clear policies and consistent culture—location is just logistics.”
Final Thoughts on Remote vs In-Office Work: What Works for You?As the episode closes, the hosts challenge listeners to reflect on their own roles and teams. Make a list of pros and cons for both remote vs in-office work. Consider productivity, focus, communication needs, and personal obligations. You may discover that the best model for your business isn’t either/or—but a mix that fits your goals and your people.
Challenge:
“Are you busy—or are you productive? That’s the real question in the remote vs in-office work discussion.”
📩 Keep Building BetterSubscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Have feedback or questions? Reach out at [email protected]—the team would love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Building A High-Performance Remote Team Remote Work Benefits – The Positives Of Working Out Of Office High-Performing Culture Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
Upgrading your business is more than a buzzword — it’s a strategic mindset. In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore what it really means to upgrade your business in today’s fast-moving, tech-driven world. From tools and processes to training and hiring decisions, they offer practical advice for business owners ready to make smarter, more efficient moves.
What Upgrading Your Business Really MeansUpgrading your business means taking a proactive approach to making it more efficient, productive, and resilient. It’s not just about buying new hardware or using trendy software — it’s about improving the way your business operates at every level.
Rob Broadhead explains how boutique consulting — like the kind offered by Developer Nation — goes beyond just staffing and focuses on solving the right problems. By identifying a business’s unique strengths and removing friction in daily operations, upgrading becomes a strategic investment in growth.
“We’re not here to throw hours at a project. We help you solve real problems with focused solutions.”
Upgrading Your Business Tools: Are You Falling Behind?
– Rob BroadheadOne of the easiest ways to start upgrading your business is by evaluating the tools your team uses every day. Rob reflects on the days when a computer could take five minutes to boot up — a daily delay that adds up over time.
Whether it’s modern laptops, cloud platforms, or extra monitors, the right tools can unlock better productivity. And while Michael loves open-source solutions, he emphasizes that businesses need to weigh the cost of learning against the speed of implementation.
“Are you spending more time learning the tool than using it? That’s the key question.”
Upgrade Your Team: Train or Hire?
– Michael MelocheAnother area where upgrading your business pays off is in your people. Rob and Michael tackle the classic dilemma: should you train your current team or hire experienced professionals?
Rob favors investing upfront in talent that can hit the ground running. Michael agrees — but says strategic training also works when you have committed long-term staff. Either way, upgrading your workforce ensures you don’t waste time on preventable errors and inefficiencies.
“Hiring cheap cost us more in the long run. Upfront investment saved us months.”
Don’t Forget Security, Compliance & Maintenance
– Rob BroadheadUpgrading your business also means protecting it. Michael stresses the importance of staying compliant with software licenses and keeping systems secure and updated — especially in industries like healthcare, banking, or legal services.
“You can’t afford to overlook compliance and security in today’s business climate.”
Watch for Time Wasters
– Michael MelocheThe hosts encourage listeners to pay attention to how time is being used (or wasted). Whether it’s slow software, outdated equipment, or inefficient workflows, these “thieves of time” are often overlooked but easy to fix with the right upgrades.
“Upgrading your business might mean replacing an old monitor — or rethinking how your team spends its day.”
This Week’s Challenge: Start Upgrading Your Business
– Rob BroadheadThis week, spend time auditing your business. Watch how employees work, where delays happen, and what causes frustration. Then make a short list of the easiest wins: faster internet, clearer processes, better equipment. Even a small improvement today can save hours next month.
Stay Connected with Developer NationLiked the episode? Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or catch the video version on YouTube.
Contact Rob and Michael at or visit [email protected] to leave feedback and suggest topics for the next season.
Follow along on X @Develpreneur and YouTube for regular insights, challenges, and tips to build a better business. We are also on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Additional Resources Business Tune-Up Checklist: How to Refresh, Refocus, and Reignite Mid-Year Business Finance Management: Building Better Businesses for Success Updating Developer Tools: Keeping Your Tools Sharp and Efficient Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, co-hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche dig into one of the most underused but powerful tools for business improvement: retrospectives. Whether you’re a startup founder, a seasoned project manager, or a solo entrepreneur, retrospectives are essential for continuous growth and team alignment.
This post captures the key takeaways from the episode and the challenge they leave for listeners at the end.
🔍 What are Retrospectives?In agile development, retrospectives are a regular part of the process. At the end of each sprint, the team takes time to reflect on what went well, what didn’t, and what we can improve.
However, Rob and Michael point out that this practice shouldn’t be limited to software teams. Every business project—from product launches to marketing campaigns—deserves a structured review. Retrospectives help answer the most important question: How can we be better next time?
Retrospectives in the Real WorldRob shares a recent personal anecdote from a hockey game. A late penalty call—after video review—proved that sometimes the real story only becomes clear in hindsight. Similarly, project issues may only reveal their full impact when the dust settles.
Michael echoes this by discussing his struggle to disconnect from work, even after projects wrap. He emphasizes that finishing a project isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of learning.
🔧 How to Run an Effective Business Retrospective1. Gather a Paper Trail
Pull together your milestones, status updates, emails, Slack threads, and anything else that shows how the project unfolded. Don’t rely on memory alone.
2. Look at the Whole Timeline
Too often, retrospectives focus only on the final sprint or the last few weeks. Instead, start at the beginning. What was your original estimate? What changed?
3. Invite Honest Feedback
Michael stresses the importance of creating a “safe space” where everyone can share the good, bad, and ugly without fear of blame. “This is not the time to get emotional,” he says. “It’s time to get real.”
💡 Callout: “If your retrospective is all rainbows and unicorns, dig deeper. There’s always room to improve.” — Rob Broadhead
4. Document Lessons Learned
After everyone has shared their thoughts, organize your notes into action items. What will you do differently next time? What can you improve today?
5. Prioritize for Change
Don’t try to fix everything. Choose 2–3 key areas for improvement and build them into your next plan. Track these changes across future projects to see if the issues were one-offs or trends.
🧩 Common Pitfalls and Hidden InsightsMany teams avoid retrospectives because they fear confrontation. But avoiding discomfort now only leads to bigger problems later. Michael highlights one big cause of project failure: misaligned talent. Assigning the wrong developer to a tech stack they don’t know can derail months of work.
Other questions to ask:
Did we start testing at the right time? Did we bring the right people in early enough? Were our environments ready when needed?These aren’t just technical issues—they’re signs of process breakdowns that can be corrected if surfaced honestly.
🎯 Episode Challenge: Your Mini RetrospectivesAt the end of the episode, Rob offers a challenge:
Take 15–20 minutes today to reflect on your last project.
What went well? What went poorly? What would you do differently next time?Even if the project was months ago, the process of reflecting can help you identify what to change, and remind you to document better for next time.
📝 Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the end of a long project. Build mini-retrospectives into your workflow every few weeks.
Final ThoughtsThis episode of Building Better Developers is a call to action: don’t waste your hard-earned experience. Capture it, learn from it, and grow. Whether managing a dev team, running a startup, or building your brand, retrospectives are the secret weapon for smarter, more effective business decisions.
Ready to improve your next project? Start with your last one.
📩 Keep Building BetterSubscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Have feedback or questions? Reach out at [email protected]—the team would love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Prepare For Your Retrospective Moving Forward – Releasing Past Mistakes Learning From Your First Business Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In a recent episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore the value of a business tune-up—a mid-year check-in designed to help business owners realign with their goals, improve operations, and reduce waste.
Whether your business is thriving or simply coasting, regular evaluations can uncover blind spots, highlight new opportunities, and help you operate more effectively.
What Is a Business Tune-Up?Rob Broadhead describes a business tune-up as a strategic assessment of your company’s core elements—from technology and marketing to compliance and overall alignment with your mission.
It’s not just about checking sales metrics. It’s about asking:
Are we still aligned with our mission? Is our customer experience consistent and strong? Are we positioned for sustainable growth?This type of review should happen at least once or twice a year and can often be completed in 30 minutes or less.
Business Tune-Up Step 1: Review Your Website and MessagingYour website is often a potential customer's first interaction with your business. Rob recommends reviewing:
Site functionality and uptime Messaging and value proposition Blog content freshness Design consistency and brandingWalk through your website as if you were a first-time visitor. Does it clearly explain what you do? Are there outdated blog posts or confusing navigation paths?
Business Tune-Up Step 2: Audit Subscriptions and ExpensesMichael Meloche shares how he routinely reviews business expenses to identify unnecessary costs and expired tools. He recommends:
Reviewing all active services and tools Identifying subscriptions no longer in use Evaluating recurring expenses for ROIMany businesses waste hundreds or even thousands per year on forgotten tools. This step alone can have an immediate financial impact.
Business Tune-Up Step 3: Adjust for Growth and ScaleIf your business is growing, your infrastructure should grow with it. Michael emphasizes reviewing internal workflows and team bandwidth to determine if:
It’s time to hire additional help or virtual assistants Agile practices and documentation need improvement Your current tools can be consolidated or upgradedRob notes that as businesses grow, systems that worked early on can quickly become limiting. Simplifying and integrating tools may offer greater efficiency and ROI.
Business Tune-Up Step 4: Check for Compliance and SecurityStaying compliant is essential, especially in regulated industries like healthcare, finance, and technology.
Your compliance check should include:
Reviewing certifications and licenses Verifying software updates and security patches Staying informed on new industry regulationsNeglecting updates or certifications can lead to legal issues or vulnerabilities. Keeping up with best practices ensures stability and avoids disruptions.
Business Tune-Up Step 5: Refresh Marketing and OutreachMarketing is often neglected during busy periods, but it shouldn’t be.
Key areas to review:
Campaign performance (email, PPC, content) Social media presence and engagement Follow-up processes for leads Marketing funnels and conversion pathsMichael reminds listeners that maintaining an active presence—even in slower seasons—can generate new leads and keep your brand top of mind.
Episode Challenge: Complete a 30-Minute Business Tune-UpRob concludes the episode with a simple but impactful challenge:
Take 15 to 30 minutes this week to perform a business tune-up.
Review your website, marketing, expenses, workflows, and compliance. Even small improvements can generate new opportunities, cut costs, or increase performance.
Stay ConnectedWe want to hear from you. Whether you’ve completed a business tune-up or have questions about how to start, reach out:
Email: [email protected] X (formerly Twitter): @develpreneur YouTube: Developer Podcast Channel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/develpreneur/ Final ThoughtsA business tune-up doesn’t require massive changes, but it can drive significant results. Taking a step back helps ensure that your tools, team, and tactics support your long-term vision. Use this moment to clean up, recalibrate, and prepare for the next growth phase.
Additional Resources Reflect on How To Become More Effective, Then Tune And Adjust A Solid Restart – Stop, Plan, Reset, Go Habit Review for Developers: Boost Productivity and Build Better Workflows Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of Building Better Developers, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore impostor syndrome—a challenge many entrepreneurs and leaders silently struggle with. You're not alone if you’ve ever felt unworthy of success or like you don’t belong.
Why Impostor Syndrome Appears After SuccessImpostor syndrome tends to show up at the most inconvenient times, usually after a win. You’ve landed a big client or completed a major project, but instead of confidence, you feel doubt.
Michael identifies three primary triggers:
Burnout – You’re stretched too thin and start to question your ability. Lack of direction – Uncertainty about what’s next fuels anxiety. Criticism – Negative feedback sticks harder than positive progress.💡 “You may not feel different, but your momentum is finally paying off.” – Rob Broadhead
The Risk of Ignoring Impostor Syndrome in BusinessRob explains that impostor syndrome can derail progress. It causes you to second-guess your success and stalls the rhythm that helped you grow.
Michael shares a personal story: after rising to a leadership role in healthcare, he left, not because of performance, but because the toxic environment fed his self-doubt. Sometimes, impostor syndrome is triggered by external circumstances, not internal flaws.
Reframing Impostor Feelings Into GrowthRob reminds us that comparison is dangerous. Your story is unique, and judging your path against others only fuels impostor syndrome.
He encourages a mindset shift:
Your success is valid, even if it came suddenly. Momentum often builds quietly, then breaks through. You’re not an impostor—you’ve grown into your potential.🎯 “You’re not an impostor. You’re someone who showed up every day and kept going.”
Your Weekly Challenge: Reflect on Impostor MomentsThis week’s challenge is about introspection:
Are you experiencing impostor syndrome right now? What triggered it—stress, fear, criticism? What can you do today to take a confident step forward?Identifying patterns and acknowledging your achievements can turn doubt into fuel for progress.
Don’t Face Impostor Syndrome AloneMichael’s advice? Getting perspective and support from someone who knows your journey, whether it’s a mentor, close friend, or coach, can help you reset and regain clarity.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not an Impostor—You’re EvolvingFeeling like an impostor doesn’t mean you don’t belong—it means you’re growing. That discomfort is a sign that you’re stepping into new territory.
Own it. Embrace it. Use it.
📩 Keep Building BetterSubscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Have feedback or questions? Reach out at [email protected]—the team would love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Navigating Difficult Conversations: Insights from the Building Better Developers Podcast Managing Stress Through A Calculated Approach Stop Chasing Your Tail: How To Reset Your Progress Without Panicking Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of Building Better Developers, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore what it means to go off the rails in business—and how to get back on track. From chaotic workloads to scattered thinking, they break down the signs, the causes, and the concrete steps to help you regain control and clarity.
💡 Quick Insight:
Even your best efforts can feel like spinning wheels when your business is off track. The key is not to do more—it’s to refocus.
What Does It Mean to Be Off the Rails in Business?The phrase “off the rails in business” describes a common but serious problem: you’re working harder, but falling further behind. Maybe your to-do list never ends, deadlines slip, and your downtime feels exhausting. As Rob describes, it’s like switching website themes and ending up in a rabbit hole of distractions and rework.
Michael shares his moment of derailment—a single ticket turned time sink—which echoes what many developers and business owners experience. One task hijacks your attention and throws everything else out of balance.
Why Multitasking Pushes You Off the Rails in BusinessA major contributor to chaos? Multitasking.
Michael debunks the multitasking myth: “If you’re juggling two complex problems, you’re not being productive—you’re just dividing your brainpower.” Context-switching slows you down and increases stress. Instead of progress, you get fatigue and frustration.
🧠 Callout:
Proper focus means doing one thing at a time. You’re faster, sharper, and more likely to finish well.
Warning Signs You’re Off the Rails in BusinessRob explains how overwhelm sneaks in. It might start with 40 hours a week and creep up until you’re doing 80—without even noticing. Suddenly, tasks pile up faster than you can finish, and you end up playing catch-up 24/7.
Michael adds that sleep and downtime become less restorative. Even off the clock, your brain replays task lists or stress dreams. That’s a clear signal you’ve gone off the rails in business.
Look out for:
Long hours with diminishing returns Frustration when trying to prioritize No mental separation between work and rest A lack of meaningful task completion Simple Ways to Reset When You’re Off the Rails in BusinessThis episode isn’t just about recognizing the chaos but fixing it.
✅ Start with a Simple ListMichael emphasizes returning to basics: create a short, actionable to-do list. Rob recommends the “eat the frog” technique—do the most challenging task first, then build momentum.
✅ Cut Inputs and DistractionsTurn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and silence nonessential communications. Michael even suggests shrinking your screen: fewer distractions = more done.
✅ Limit Your WorkspaceWork in a smaller, quieter space. Avoid mixing leisure with labor. If you game or relax in the same space you code, your brain won’t reset.
✅ Accept You Can’t Do It AllRob offers a hard truth: sometimes you must take the loss. Focus on finishing the most important thing. Trying to do everything means finishing nothing.
Final Thoughts: Reset, Don’t Burn OutWhen you’re off the rails in business, doing more won’t solve it. Instead, stop. Focus. Simplify. Get a small win and build momentum from there.
📝 Challenge of the Week:Every morning, take 2 minutes to assess your mental state. How do you feel? What one thing must get done today? Write it down—and do only that.
📩 Keep Building BetterSubscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Have feedback or questions? Reach out at [email protected]—the team would love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Stop Chasing Your Tail: How To Reset Your Progress Without Panicking A Solid Restart – Stop, Plan, Reset, Go PTO Taking Breaks: Why You Need More Than a Long Weekend Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche discuss one of the most underrated leadership and communication skills in business: reading the room. Whether you’re pitching a project, leading a team meeting, or giving a client presentation, understanding how your audience is responding in real time is the key to success.
This episode bridges the gap between performance, perception, and persuasion—and shows why paying attention is as important as being heard.
💡 Quick InsightReading the room is about adapting your message on the fly to match your audience’s energy, reactions, and needs.
What Does “Reading the Room” Actually Mean?Rob begins by defining the concept: reading the room means understanding how your audience receives your message. It’s not just about knowing your content—it’s about learning how it’s landing. Are they bored, intrigued, confused, or excited?
Simple cues like body language, eye contact, note-taking, and facial expressions help you determine whether to stay the course or pivot.
For example, if you present a design idea and mention it being “purple,” and everyone suddenly frowns or checks their phone—that’s your cue to reconsider the color scheme.
Use Simple Cues to Gauge Reactions✅ Positive indicators:
Smiles, nods, focused eye contact, and laughter
❌ Negative indicators:
Looking at phones, crossed arms, blank stares, groans
Michael’s Take: Lead With EngagementMichael points out that comics have long understood the value of “testing the waters.” His advice: begin with something interactive—an icebreaker, a question, or a relatable story. This will give you early insight into the audience’s energy and mood.
However, be mindful of selective engagement. Calling on introverts or hesitant individuals can backfire. Know your audience, and engage accordingly.
🎯 Pro TipStart with a relatable topic—weather, local sports, or a widely shared frustration. Use this to connect with the audience before diving into deeper content.
Practical Tips to Build Your Room-Reading SkillsRob and Michael offer several techniques that anyone—developer, team lead, manager, or entrepreneur—can use to sharpen their ability to read the room:
Observe before you act: Quietly watch how people interact at the start of the meeting. Look for patterns: Is one side of the room more responsive? Use humor strategically: A shared laugh can unite the room quickly. Adjust mid-stream: If you lose the room’s energy, switch gears. 🧠 Weekly Challenge: Hone Your Observation Skills Find a setting—a coffee shop, park, or waiting area—where you’re simply an observer. Spend 5–10 minutes analyzing how people interact. Then ask yourself: What would I say to grab their attention right now and steer them toward a shared emotion or idea?This challenge helps you build intuition and awareness that you can use in business presentations and leadership moments.
Final Thoughts: Reading the Room is a SuperpowerMastering how to read the room can dramatically change how others perceive you, whether you’re pitching, presenting, or simply collaborating. It transforms one-sided talks into meaningful conversations and helps your audience feel seen, heard, and valued.
📩 Keep Building BetterSubscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Have feedback or questions? Reach out at [email protected]—the team would love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Navigating Difficult Conversations: Insights from the Building Better Developers Podcast Pitching Your Business: Start Conversations That Drive Growth Face-To-Face Conversation – Efficient And Effective Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche walk you through how to demo your product in a way that not only shows off your work but also gathers critical feedback. Whether you’re pitching to potential clients, investors, or internal stakeholders, the proper demo can shape the direction of your product and business.
💡 Quick InsightThe goal isn’t just to impress—it’s to learn. A successful product demo uncovers how your audience thinks, feels, and reacts.
Why Learning How to Demo Your Product Is EssentialLearning how to demo your product effectively goes beyond closing deals. Product demos are one of the best opportunities to validate your design, features, and user experience. According to Rob, a good demo is a goldmine for insight—not just a flashy sales pitch.
Instead of asking, “Did they like it?” ask, “What did I learn from that?”
How to Demo Your Product by Highlighting Strengths or WeaknessesBefore presenting, choose your strategy:
Highlight strengths to double down on what works Expose weaknesses to get help improving problem areasFor example, if your product’s interface is great but reporting is weak, don’t ignore reporting. Show it, ask about it, and solicit targeted feedback. That’s how you improve.
Michael shares a story from college where a hardware failure nearly ruined his team’s demo. Thanks to practice, they improvised successfully. The takeaway? Always rehearse your script, because live demo time is valuable and limited.
🛠️ Subtle Cues: Use Live Feedback in the MomentPart of knowing how to demo your product includes reading the room. Look for signs of confusion, interest, or resistance. If someone frowns or seems hesitant, ask them directly. Often, people just need a nudge to open up.
“If your audience has no questions, you probably missed the mark.” – Rob Broadhead
The best demos lead to honest conversations, not just polite applause.
A/B Testing as a Strategy for Product DemosWant to improve your demo game? Rob suggests using A/B testing for demos. Create two or more variations of your presentation and see which resonates more.
Demo A might show off Feature X Demo B might highlight Feature Y Record which gets better reactions, more questions, or stronger engagementThis technique is especially useful at trade shows or meetups, where you can test pitches quickly with varied audiences.
How to Demo Your Product Like a ProMichael reminds us that you don’t need a perfect product to start demoing. Use prototypes, early versions, or limited-feature trials. Attend meetups, present at conferences, or offer free trials with specific features.
Your product won’t grow in a vacuum. It develops through interaction.
And remember: your first audience might not be your best-fit customer. Testing with different people gives broader insights—and sometimes, reveals entirely new market directions.
🎯 This Week’s Challenge: Demo Your BusinessRob issues a practical challenge:
“What would a demo of your business look like?”
Think beyond elevator pitches. If someone gave you 15–30 minutes, what would you say? What features, benefits, or challenges would you share?
Better yet, record yourself. You’ll identify habits, rough transitions, and opportunities to improve your message and delivery.
Final ThoughtsLearning how to demo your product is foundational for developers and entrepreneurs. A polished, feedback-focused presentation helps you improve your product, sharpen your message, and better connect with your audience.
Don’t just perform—engage. The right feedback can turn a good product into a great one.
📩 Keep Building Better
Subscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Do you have feedback or questions? Email the team at [email protected]—they’d love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Successful Presentation Tips for Developers: Effective Demo Strategies Building Out Your Application From a Demo The Power of Clickable Demos in the Software Development Lifecycle Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In the latest episode of the Building Better Developers podcast — part of the Building Better Businesses season — Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche tackle an all-too-common challenge: how to stop chasing your tail when you’re overwhelmed.
When panic sets in, it’s easy to feel trapped and exhausted. But by learning to recognize the signs early and taking small, strategic steps, you can break the cycle and get your progress back on track.
Stop Chasing Your Tail: Recognize When You’re StuckPanic usually strikes when we realize we’re no longer moving forward. Rob describes this moment as a dog chasing its tail — you suddenly become aware that you’re going nowhere, which triggers frustration or fear.
Common causes include:
Overcommitment and unrealistic expectations Financial stress from unplanned expenses Projects running off course Emotional burnout from constant pressureCallout: “Sometimes the best first step is to simply stop and admit: this isn’t working.” — Rob Broadhead
Before rushing to fix everything at once, take a moment to breathe. Acknowledge where you are without judgment — it’s the first step toward real progress.
Reset Your Focus and Stop Chasing Your TailOnce you’ve caught yourself chasing your tail, the next step is resetting your focus. Michael Meloche shared a simple but powerful process:
Assess the Situation: Figure out why you’re stuck. Time, money, overcommitment? Identify the actual causes. Set a Realistic Goal: Pick an achievable objective. Make sure it’s something you believe you can reach. Take One Step Forward: You don’t need to solve everything today. Just move one inch closer to your target.Rob emphasized that panic often prompts us to make bad decisions. Instead, progress happens through small, steady steps, and each small win builds confidence.
Pro Tip: If your goal feels overwhelming, break it into even smaller milestones.
Take Your First Step: Stop Chasing Your Tail TodayThe biggest challenge once you’re stuck is picking your first step. It doesn’t have to be huge — it just needs to be in the right direction.
Need to fix your finances? Cancel one small expense today. Overwhelmed with work? Finish one small task you’ve been avoiding. Stuck in a complicated client relationship? Draft an email to start the conversation.Callout: “Momentum builds when you focus on just one small, positive action at a time.” — Rob Broadhead
Even slowing down your tail-chasing a little bit helps. Eventually, you’ll regain control, stop spinning, and move purposefully toward your goals.
Challenge of the EpisodeThis week’s challenge is simple but powerful:
If you feel stuck, take just one step forward today.
Pause. Breathe. Pick one action that moves you closer to your goal. You’ll be amazed how much better you feel once you’re driving — even if it’s just one small victory.
And remember, Rob and Michael invite you to reach out anytime at [email protected] if you want to share your journey or need a boost of encouragement. You’re not alone — we’re all building better businesses, one step at a time!
Additional Resources Developer Tools That Transform: Habits for Smarter Development Managing Stress Through A Calculated Approach Why Setting Deadlines Is the Key to Successful Projects Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
Welcome back to another episode of the Building Better Developers podcast! In this session, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche dive into one of the most potent strategies for startups and growing businesses: building a minimal viable product (MVP) that delivers real customer value — without draining your time or budget.
Learn how focusing on the essentials can help you launch smarter, generate revenue faster, and build a product your customers truly need.
What is a Minimal Viable Product (MVP)?At its core, a minimal viable product is the simplest version of a product that delivers real value to customers. Rob defined it as:
Definition: The least amount of work needed to solve a customer’s problem and receive value (and payment) in return.
An MVP isn’t just a rough draft — it’s a usable, valuable product without unnecessary features. The goal is to solve real problems and gather feedback before investing heavily in polish or expansion.
Rob and Michael emphasized: solve the customer’s immediate problem first, then grow and refine over time.
Building a Minimal Viable Product Under Tight DeadlinesRob explained how real-world MVP development often happens under budgetary and time pressures.
Using backward scheduling, you start with a firm deadline and map all tasks backward, including coding, testing, deployment, and client training.
When a project slips behind, Rob likened it to being in a sinking boat:
Callout: “You start throwing unnecessary features overboard to stay afloat and meet your goal.”
This mindset forces you to focus only on what is essential for delivering a usable and valuable product.
Strategies for a Successful MVP LaunchMichael shared key strategies for building a winning MVP:
Identify Core Infrastructure Early: Understand what servers, integrations, and compliance needs must be addressed upfront. Start Minimal, Grow Later: Build a basic but functional version first. Leave polish and extra features for after you solve the core problem. Include Testing Early: Invest in automated and user testing from the beginning to catch bugs and inefficiencies while they’re still easy to fix.Tip: “A minimal viable product means delivering the highest value with the least wasted effort — not sacrificing quality.”
Launching an MVP early allows honest customer feedback to shape your product, saving time and money in the long run.
Episode Challenge: Review and Trim Your Feature ListThis episode’s challenge is simple but powerful:
Critically review your feature list or project backlog. Ask yourself: Does this feature directly solve a customer problem? Trim anything that adds complexity without delivering immediate value.By applying minimal viable product thinking, you can accelerate delivery, control costs, and create better customer outcomes — all while staying on track.
Final Thoughts: Smart MVPs Lead to Stronger BusinessesDelivering a minimal viable product is about prioritization, not shortcuts.
When you focus on solving real problems and strip away distractions, you create faster wins, better products, and happier customers — without blowing your budget.
Ready to level up your business and development skills?
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Additional Resources Defining An MVP Properly for Your Goals Defining ‘Done’ in Agile: How to Stay on Track and Avoid Scope Creep A Positive Look At Scope Creep Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In the latest episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore the real impact of not taking time off. Titled “PTO: Taking Breaks,” the episode is a candid, at times humorous, look at why stepping away from work is crucial, not just for employees, but for entrepreneurs, managers, and developers alike.
🛑 PTO Taking Breaks Is Not a Luxury—It’s a NecessityRob admits he preaches taking time off but struggles to follow his own advice. Michael shares a cautionary tale about being the only person at his company who could handle a crisis, getting called during a literal mountain climb. The problem? No PTO plan. No backup. That kind of burnout is all too common.
“PTO isn’t just for employees—it’s for your mental health, your business, and your sanity.” – Michael Meloche
🧠 How PTO Taking Breaks Supports Mental HealthThe hosts emphasize that burnout doesn’t just affect your energy—it also affects your relationships, productivity, and decision-making. Rob contrasts two work schedules: one that included long breaks and focused time blocks, and one that pushed him from 6 AM to 7 PM nonstop. The verdict? Without breaks, even high performers become less effective.
Callout: PTO taking breaks isn’t weakness—it’s smart business.
🚫 Three-Day Weekends Don’t CountRob issues a reality check: a three-day weekend isn’t enough to unwind. Friday is spent catching up, Saturday is spent stressing about Friday, and Sunday is spent worrying about Monday. Real rest comes after the decompression curve, typically on day four or five.
“A true break begins once your mind finally stops racing—and that takes time.” – Rob Broadhead
🛠️ Build Systems That Let You Step AwayMichael and Rob both highlight a key to long-term success: designing your role and your company so they can operate without you. If you can’t unplug without a disaster, the issue isn’t the workload—it’s the lack of systems and delegation.
Michael even references Tim Ferriss’ famous point: if you can’t remove yourself, you don’t have a business—you have a job with overhead.
🎯 Weekly Challenge: Define Your Ideal Work-Rest RhythmThis week’s challenge is twofold:
Reflect on your most productive daily rhythm—Are you an early bird or a night owl? How can you schedule focused blocks that align with your energy? Plan your next real PTO—at least 4–5 days, without email, Slack, or your laptop.Challenge Callout: When was the last time you took more than four days off—without technology?
Final Thought: PTO Taking Breaks Makes You BetterAt the core of this episode is a simple but powerful idea: you cannot give your best when you’re running on empty. Whether you’re building a business, managing a team, or coding the next great app, you need downtime to do your best work.
So stop glorifying the grind. Take a break. Plan a vacation. Step away from the screen—and come back stronger.
📩 Keep Building Better
Subscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Do you have feedback or questions? Email the team at [email protected]—they’d love to hear from you!
Additional Resources When Coffee Hits the Fan: Developer Disaster Recovery Finding Balance: The Importance of Pausing and Pivoting in Tech Supercharge Your Focus and Productivity: Expert Tips for Success Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche dive deep into a critical—but often misunderstood—element of project management: setting deadlines. This episode goes beyond the basics of timelines and introduces the psychology, strategy, and communication needed to make deadlines effective, not stressful.
Why Setting Deadlines Matters for Business ProjectsDeadlines define a project’s rhythm. As Rob puts it, “the deadline is the finish line.” It’s not just about when code is complete—it’s about when the product is ready for delivery, after testing, packaging, training, and documentation.
Deadlines force prioritization. Without them, projects risk becoming endless cycles of scope creep and perfectionism. But setting arbitrary or unrealistic deadlines can just as easily derail progress.
🛠️ Pro Tip: Don’t confuse code complete with project complete. Always factor in post-dev steps like UAT, deployment, and training.
The Psychology of the DeadlineRob shares a story of adjusting clocks in his home to help a chronically late family member—an example of how deadlines are often more psychological than technical.
This translates to project work, where teams may pad estimates or set artificial deadlines to force earlier delivery. Agile frameworks like Scrum embrace this by using time-boxed sprints to create urgency and reduce procrastination.
🧠 Callout: Know your team. Some people thrive under pressure. Others need more space. Tailor your deadlines accordingly.
Waterfall, Agile, or Somewhere In-Between?Michael discusses the contrast between Waterfall and Agile methods. For new projects, spending more time upfront to define user stories and requirements can create more reliable deadlines. In ongoing projects, Agile’s iterative cycles help manage evolving requirements, but deadlines still matter.
Whether it’s a feature release or a bug fix, every task needs a timeline to stay focused and accountable.
The Pareto Principle in Deadline PlanningMichael invokes the 80/20 rule: aim to deliver 80% of the features on time, with 20% reserved for polish, stretch goals, or unexpected blockers. Build slack into the schedule like airlines do with flight times. Customers are happier when you’re early than when you’re late.
⏳ Did You Know? Airlines improved customer satisfaction by padding schedules—80% of flights now arrive “early.” Apply this mindset to your dev work.
Clear Communication is Non-NegotiableBoth hosts stress that if a deadline needs to move, communicate early and honestly. Clients value transparency over surprises. If you’re late because of scope creep, own it. If it’s your mistake, fix it—even if it means eating the cost.
Your credibility is built not on perfection, but on reliability.
Weekly Challenge: Define “Done”Rob’s challenge this week is deceptively simple:
Think of a current project. Define what “done” means to you. Now, define what “done” means to your customer. List the steps required to bridge that gap.Only then can you set a deadline that truly aligns with expectations.
Final ThoughtsDeadlines are less about time and more about expectation management. From internal planning to external delivery, successful businesses treat deadlines as promises, not guesses.
Set them thoughtfully. Communicate them clearly. Most importantly, deliver on them.
🎯 Takeaway: A well-set deadline isn’t just a timeline—it’s a roadmap to success.
📩 Keep Building Better
Subscribe to the Building Better Developers podcast for more actionable insights on product strategy, technology leadership, and business growth. Do you have feedback or questions? Email the team at [email protected]—they’d love to hear from you!
Additional Resources Managing Anxiety and Stress: Insights and Strategies for Daily Life Deadlines: A professional approach to the Side-Hustle Estimation Essentials: How to Nail Pricing for Development Projects Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content -
In the latest Building Better Developers podcast episode, co-hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche discuss an uncomfortable but essential part of doing business: what to do when you make a mistake. More specifically, they explore how turning errors into opportunities can be a powerful tool for building customer trust in business, strengthening relationships, and creating long-term success.
🎧 Listen Now:
Why Building Trust Matters More Than Being FlawlessNo business is perfect. Mistakes are part of growth. What truly separates successful companies is how they respond when things go wrong. Do they go silent—or step up?
“If you made the mistake, take ownership—and do what’s right for the customer.” – Michael Meloche
This episode focuses on real-world scenarios where transparency, integrity, and follow-through have proven to be the foundations for building customer trust in business.
💡 Strategy Highlight: Give More Than Just an ApologyRob shares a case where he overlooked an email tied to a client’s active marketing campaign. The oversight wasn’t catastrophic, but it cost the client momentum.
Instead of brushing it off, Rob:
Took responsibility Fixed the issue Forgave part of the invoiceCallout: Sometimes, the fastest way to earn loyalty is to share the burden—not just say “sorry.”
This approach showed that the client’s success mattered more than the billing cycle—strengthening trust in the process.
When Walking Away Is the Right CallTrust also means knowing when a working relationship no longer serves either party. Michael discusses challenging situations where clients became hostile or manipulative.
In those cases, refunding invoices or ending the engagement was the best course of action. It preserved professionalism and set a boundary.
Tip: Customer communication strategies aren’t just about fixing things—they’re about knowing when to say “no more.”
The Foundation: Clear Agreements Build Stronger TrustOne major takeaway: Trust starts long before things go wrong. Clear contracts and expectations reduce the risk of confusion, disputes, or unrealistic assumptions.
Rob emphasizes the importance of outlining deliverables, rates, and support terms in writing and reviewing them with the client.
Pro Tip: Run your proposal through an AI tool and ask how a customer might interpret it. You’ll often uncover potential gaps or risks.
Flexible Payment as a Trust-Building ToolSometimes trust isn’t built in a single moment—it’s nurtured over time. Rob shares how creative billing, like “pay now, catch up later” or offering discounted hours, can show clients you’re invested in their success.
Callout: Trust grows when customers see you’re willing to meet them where they are—not just invoice them for where you want to be.
These thoughtful adjustments can help small businesses thrive while positioning you as a long-term partner, not just a vendor.
Building Customer Trust in Business Is a ChoiceThis episode of Building Better Developers reminds us that every mistake is a chance to earn more trust. Whether you’re waiving an invoice, offering a discount, or walking away respectfully, what matters most is how you show up.
Use strong customer communication strategies. Be transparent, kind, and fair. Most importantly, be accountable.
🎯 Episode Challenge: Audit Your AgreementsRob leaves us with a practical challenge:
🔍 Review your current contracts and service agreements.
Ask yourself:
Are your deliverables clearly defined? Do you specify what happens if something goes wrong? Is there language covering change requests or dispute resolution?If you’re missing any of that—or don’t have written agreements—now’s the time to fix it. A firm contract protects you and helps build customer trust in business by setting clear expectations from day one.
Challenge Summary: Review and improve your contracts to better protect your business and strengthen client trust.
Additional Resources Moving Forward – Releasing Past Mistakes Trust But Verify – Avoid Business Assumptions Business Networking Strategies: How to Build Real Relationships That Grow Your Business Building Real World Software – No More Best Practices Building Better Businesses – With Bonus Content - Mehr anzeigen
