#266 Cory O'Daniel from a suit and a tie to one startup after the other

Software Developers Journey

The realm of software development is as vast as it is intricate. For Cory O'Daniel, it's been a journey marked by coding and understanding the deeper nuances of being a software developer. Cory took a detour, discovering that there's more to the world of tech than just writing code – there's a profound beauty in problem-solving, connecting with peers, and carving out personal space in a rapidly evolving remote work landscape.
Cory placed the start of his journey in high school, modding Duke Nukem 3D. He then described how working a data-entry job in a hospital to make ends meet got him to automate his work through coding. He talked about his college physics major and the dire future it promised and how he chose to major in Networking and Computer Science instead. We then went from one job to the next. Ditching the first job requiring a suit and tie (but where he was caught reading the D&D reference manuals during his work) for Californian startups where he could wear shorts & teeshirts. We talked about the colorful startups he experienced and the crazy technical contraptions some of those required. We talked about becoming a Digital Nomad before iPhones were a thing. And finally, we touched on Massdriver, Cory's current company.
In this episode, Cory O'Daniel invites us into his world, sharing his unique transition from hands-on coding to leadership and his candid thoughts on the art of balancing remote work. He touches upon the necessity of asynchronous communication, the serenity in pacing during calls, and the sometimes underrated joy of turning off video feeds. Through his journey, we see a reflection of modern-day work challenges and how passion, adaptability, and a dash of humor can make all the difference.

If you want to learn more about the intricacies of remote work and derive inspiration from Cory's remarkable journey, this episode is a must-listen!

Three reasons why you should listen to the full episode:

• Discover Cory's Unique Journey: Understand Cory's non-traditional path into software development, offering inspiration for those overwhelmed by the learning curve.
• Insights on Remote Work: With remote work becoming the norm, Cory's pioneering experience offers invaluable advice on effective communication, multitasking, and cultivating team camaraderie.
• Evolution in Tech Career: Dive deep into Cory's transition from hands-on coding to leadership roles, emphasizing the significance of soft skills, continuous learning, and adaptability in the tech world.

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