Easier Said Than Done (And How to Do it)

Zubin Pratap

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Easier Said Than Done (And How to Do it)

I synthesise tens of thousands of dollars of Personal Transformation And Development into this podcast where I show you how to do the things that are "easier said than done". While set against the backdrop of my transition from 37 year old corporate lawyer to Big Tech software engineer, I cover meta-skills and habits that are necessary for all personal development.

JAN 9

Junior Devs Can Outcompete Experienced Devs with These Secret Weapons | Ep 30

**Show notes below** 👋👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 Be personally coached for 12 months by Brian Jenney and me: https://www.parsity.io/inner-circle 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Webinar at https://matchfitmastery.com 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ Most of the people who ask me for help in becoming professional coders spend way too much time learning too many things rather than getting deep skills in a few things. SHOW NOTES Actually getting hired as a coder when I was a 37yo lawyer was hard AF - even though I was good at code. But once I figured out the structure of the hiring market I was able to get 4 offers in a few weeks and less than a year later joined Google as a software engineer. Here are my key takeaways on how to outcompete experienced software engineers as a career changer: Leverage Your Unique Background • Craft a compelling "Why Tech?" story that demonstrates authentic passion and commercial value • Use domain expertise from your previous career to stand out in relevant tech sectors Demonstrate Enhanced Soft Skills • Excel at clear communication and explaining complex concepts to non-technical audiences • Show strong problem-solving abilities beyond just coding - focus on solving real business challenges • Highlight adaptability and resilience gained through your career transition Build a Strategic Portfolio • Focus on 1-3 high-quality projects that tell a personal story, rather than many basic projects • Create projects that solve real problems you've encountered, not just tutorial clones • Ensure your work demonstrates problem-solving abilities and technical depth Network Strategically • Build genuine relationships with both developers and recruiters over time • Earn the right to informational interviews through meaningful connection-building • Focus on quality over quantity in your networking efforts Accept the Reality The reality is that competing against experienced engineers requires a systematic, long-term approach. It's not about being better than CS graduates, but rather demonstrating your unique value proposition to hiring managers. Remember: Just like a startup entering a crowded market, you need to identify your niche and showcase how you can satisfy customer needs better than the competition. This requires careful strategy, persistence, and a growth mindset. Action Points: • Identify your commercially valuable differentiators • Focus on strategic continuous learning rather than trying to learn everything • Build credibility before applying for roles • Never repeat the same mistake twice • Target roles where your unique background adds specific value • Plan for a 40-52 week systematic career transition journey Let me know if you'd like me to expand on any of these points. Success in changing careers to tech requires dedication, strategy and patience - but it's absolutely achievable with the right approach.

30 min
12/26/2024

Is The Anti-Bootcamp The Way Forward in 2025? Ep #29

Want to learn to code AND build a future-proof career starting in 2025? Announcing the Anti-Bootcamp: The Parsity Inner Circle personalised coaching program (https://parsity.io/inner-circle) - where we personally guide and mentor you on ALL the steps to learn to code and develop a coding career you can be truly proud of. Check out a previous episode with Brian wjere we explored the usual models - College Vs Bootcamps Vs Coaching Vs DIY. https://youtu.be/ji7RdLfMf7w Key Takeaways: • Getting hired is harder than learning to code • Coding skills alone are not enough in today's market • Career transformation requires long-term commitment • Success depends more on grit than technical background • Program focuses on sustainable career development Action Items: • Visit parsity.io/inner-circle for program details • Book a call with Brian or Zubin to discuss fit • Check out Brian's "Develop Yourself" podcast • Watch Zubin's "Easier Said Than Done" podcast • Consider whether you're ready for a 12-month commitment Program Overview: • Get personally coached and trained Zubin Pratap and Brian Jenny • 12-month individualized coaching program • Risk Free Alternative to traditional coding bootcamps • Focus on career transformation beyond just coding skills Key Differentiators from Bootcamps: • Personalized attention and customized curriculum • Longer timeline (12 months vs. 3-5 months) • Emphasis on long term career growth and impact • Extremely small numbers of students for 12 months Target Audience: • Career changers with some work experience • People who have dabbled in coding • Those with grit and realistic expectations • Musicians (noted as particularly successful) • Individuals ready for long-term focus and commitment Value Proposition: • Comprehensive career transformation • Personalized guidance from experienced professionals • Focus on long-term success vs. quick wins • Support throughout the entire journey • Access to real industry insights and expertise 🫡 🫡 🫡 Connect With Brian 🫡 🫡 🫡 https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjenney https://www.instagram.com/brianjenneycode https://parsity.io/ 👋 👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Webinar at https://matchfitmastery.com 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ Most of the people who ask me for help in becoming professional coders spend way too much time learning too many things rather than getting deep skills in a few things.

44 min
11/14/2024

Ep #28 Is AI Changing Code? Conversation with AI Ph.D and Author, Emmanuel Maggiori

AI and coding - the big questions! Looking to Change Careers? Want to be part of the next generation of coders? Get the insider perspective from my FREE Coding Career Strategy Training at https://www.matchfitmastery.com/vsl/2/register And DEFINITELY absorb every nugget dropped by Emmanuel Maggiori in this episode. After all, Emmanuel Maggiori, PhD, is a 10-year AI industry insider. He has developed AI for everything from processing satellite images to packaging deals for holiday travelers. Emmanuel Maggiori is the author of Smart Until It's Dumb and Siliconned. 👋👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Coding Career Strategy Training at https://www.matchfitmastery.com/vsl/2/register 💥 Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/show/1WMi6AmVFjpmCpF95XjaBJ 💥 APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/easier-said-than-done-and-how-to-do-it/id1735263970 👋👋👋 Connect With Emmanuel! 👋👋👋 https://www.linkedin.com/in/emaggiori/ Engineer's pocked guide to surving AI: https://mng.bz/9o8a Siliconned: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7MRG775 Smart Until It's Dumb: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BSR6QZRS

58 min
11/06/2024

Ep#27 Future Coders Inner Circle - What is it?

Become a Coder - The Inner Circle Mentorship Program is a no BS, no nonsense approach. It's not easy but if you stick the plan you will get to your destination. Full Stop. In this episode of the Easier Said Than Done podcast I dive deep into my Future Coders Inner Circle program. I explain its purpose, methodology, and unique approach to mentoring career changers in coding. With a direct and no-nonsense attitude, I highlight why traditional bootcamps often fall short and emphasize the importance of personal transformation, strategic planning, and realistic expectations in achieving career goals. I stress the value of individualized coaching over standardized courses and share insights on navigating the coding landscape, especially for busy professionals. I also discuss the significance of long-term commitment, tailored guidance, and avoiding common pitfalls in the journey to becoming a professional coder. 👋👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Coding Career Strategy Training at https://www.matchfitmastery.com/vsl/1/register 💥 Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/show/1WMi6AmVFjpmCpF95XjaBJ 💥 APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/easier-said-than-done-and-how-to-do-it/id1735263970

34 min
10/17/2024

Ep#26 Which Coding Language Is Best (and which one got me into Google?)

Podcast Shownotes: Ep#26 Which Coding Language Is Best (Google Doc Talking Points: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1G10RZjly7Ew4H1QBvpi7yFkBdKRPG4vLJNcR88aeyuQ/edit?usp=sharing)The "best" coding language is a meaningless question. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.- Focus on fundamentals. Programming is about understanding principles, not specific languages.- Choose a language based on your goals and current level. Beginners should start with simpler languages like Python or JavaScript.- Don't expect it to be easy. Programming requires dedication and time.- Don't skip steps. Build a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced topics.- Focus on learning, not just language. Understand programming concepts and problem-solving. 👋👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Coding Career Strategy Training at https://www.matchfitmastery.com/vsl/1/register 💥 Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/show/1WMi6AmVFjpmCpF95XjaBJ 💥 APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/easier-said-than-done-and-how-to-do-it/id1735263970

25 min
10/10/2024

Ep #25 The UK's Most Influential Engineering Voice - An Interview with John Crickett

What Is The Reality of Software Engineering? Who better than my guest John Crickett to break down almost 3 decades of engineering experience for you in this eye-opening podcast chat. 💥 Key Insights: 💥 -👉🏼 Beyond Coding Skills: Software engineering is more than just writing code; it involves problem-solving, communication, and collaboration. -👉🏼 The Importance of Real-World Projects: Build projects that simulate real-world scenarios to demonstrate your skills. -👉🏼 Focus on Soft Skills: Develop strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. -👉🏼 The Value of Coding Challenges: Use coding challenges to practice your skills, learn new languages, and prepare for interviews. 💥Key Action Items:💥 -👉🏼 Build meaningful projects: Focus on projects that solve real-world problems. -👉🏼 Develop soft skills: Practice communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. -👉🏼 Use coding challenges: Incorporate coding challenges into your learning journey. -👉🏼 Understand the industry: Learn about different career paths and the skills required for each. 💥REMEMBER:💥 Software engineering is a multifaceted field. Focus on developing a well-rounded skill set. Stay curious and continue learning throughout your career. 👋👋👋 Connect With John! 👋👋👋 💥 https://codingchallenges.substack.com/ - Coding Challenges, real-world projects to help you become a better software engineer. 💥 https://read.developingskills.fyi/ - Soft skills for software engineers who want to make it past senior. 💥 https://johncrickett.me/p/build-your-personal-brand-on-linkedin How to build your personal brand on LinkedIn 💥 https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncrickett/ 💥 https://x.com/johncrickett 👋👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Coding Career Strategy Training at https://www.matchfitmastery.com/vsl/1/register 💥 Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/show/1WMi6AmVFjpmCpF95XjaBJ 💥 APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/easier-said-than-done-and-how-to-do-it/id1735263970

39 min
10/03/2024

Ep #24 - Coding Frustration to Fortune 500: Matt's Journey to Software Engineering Success

In this episode of the "Easier Said Than Done" podcast, host Zubin interviews Matt, a successful software engineer who transitioned from a business analyst role to working at a Fortune 500 consumer goods company after doing Zubin's Inner Circle Program. Matt shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the strategies that helped him make a successful career change. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to pivot into a new career, especially in software engineering. 👋👋👋 Connect With Me! 👋👋👋 💥 Career Change to Code - FREE Coding Career Strategy Training at https://www.matchfitmastery.com/vsl/1/register 💥 Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/zubinpratap 💥 https://www.instagram.com/zubinpratap/ 💥 Before You Learn To Code -- Where to start? What to do? https://matchfitmastery.com/lifesaver 💥 Podcasts:, Blogs and Resources https://linktr.ee/zubinpratap 💥 Twitter: http://twitter.com/zubinpratap 💥 SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/show/1WMi6AmVFjpmCpF95XjaBJ 💥 APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/easier-said-than-done-and-how-to-do-it/id1735263970 Key Takeaways The Importance of Direction: - Focus on being directionally aligned with your career goals. - Avoid jumping from one shiny object to another; stay committed to a clear path. - Self-Reliance and Learning: - Cultivate self-reliance and the ability to learn how to learn. - Understand that foundational knowledge is just the beginning; continuous learning is key. - The Role of Coaching: - Personalized coaching can provide the guidance and strategy needed for a successful career change. - Learn from someone who has successfully made the transition you aspire to. - Market Research: - Understand the specific market you are entering; different regions have different demands and opportunities. - Tailor your approach based on market research to increase your chances of success. - Soft Skills Matter: - Communication skills are crucial in software engineering. - Being able to de-risk yourself in the eyes of a hiring manager is essential. - Handling Risk and Fear: - Every career change involves risk; weigh the pros and cons of each approach. - Acknowledge the courage it takes to make a career shift and use that as motivation. - Long-Term Commitment: - Be prepared for a long-term commitment; quick fixes and short courses often don't provide the depth needed for a career change. - One year of focused effort is more realistic than expecting results in 90 days. Action Points: - Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve and create a roadmap to get there. - Invest in Training: Consider personalized coaching to guide you through the career change process. - Do Market Research: Understand the job market in your target location and tailor your approach accordingly. - Develop Soft Skills: Work on your communication and interpersonal skills to stand out in interviews. - Be Patient: Commit to a long-term plan and avoid the temptation of quick fixes. Quotes: - "Direction is more important than speed. Make sure you're 100% in the right direction before rushing." - "Self-reliance is crucial. Learn how to learn and adapt to new challenges." - "Every career change involves risk. Weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision." Subscribe & Follow: - Apple Podcasts - Spotify - Google Podcasts - YouTube Support the Show: - If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your network. ---

39 min
09/27/2024

Ep #23 - What Science Has Taught Us About Learning To Code

Easier Said Than Done (And How to Do it)

27 min

I synthesise tens of thousands of dollars of Personal Transformation And Development into this podcast where I show you how to do the things that are "easier said than done". While set against the backdrop of my transition from 37 year old corporate lawyer to Big Tech software engineer, I cover meta-skills and habits that are necessary for all personal development.

Creator

Zubin Pratap
Years Active

2024 - 2025
Episodes

30
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025 (C) Zubin Pratap
Show Website

Easier Said Than Done (And How to Do it)