Ode to RailsConf

David Hill

RailsConf 2025 will be the final RailsConf.  Let's talk and share our experiences from attending RailsConf over the years and being part of the Ruby on Rails community.

  1. ٢١ يوليو

    The End

    Send us a text In this final episode of Ode to RailsConf, I pull back the curtain to share why I'm concluding the podcast and how this journey has profoundly changed me both professionally and personally. What happens when a shy, introverted developer decides to face their fears by starting a podcast? I reveal how setting a predetermined end date for this project gave me the psychological safety to embark on this adventure despite battling imposter syndrome and social anxiety. The transformation has been remarkable – from someone who could barely muster the energy for one day of socializing at conferences to now feeling energized by connections throughout an entire event. The final RailsConf brought extraordinary experiences: serving on the program committee, introducing speakers on stage, being recognized by listeners, and forming deep friendships that will extend far beyond the podcast. I share lessons learned about what makes successful conference proposals and how podcasting provided the perfect low-stakes environment to practice social skills I'd struggled with since childhood. This episode is also a heartfelt thank you to those who made this possible – from Chris Oliver's immediate sponsorship to Paul Barr's editing expertise, from Colin Gilbert's early encouragement to Nadia Odunayo's friendship and connections, and to everyone at Ruby Central who supported this journey. Their collective impact helped me discover that software development isn't primarily about code – it's about people, communication, and community. Though Ode to RailsConf concludes today, my podcasting continues! Join me as I co-host the new Ruby Gems Podcast with Marty Haught, an official Ruby Central production featuring conversations with influential figures in our community. Episode one with Chad Fowler is available now, with many more exciting guests lined up. Ready to continue this journey together? Find the Ruby Gems Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and hear how the stories of our community continue to unfold.

    ٢٧ من الدقائق
  2. ٢ يونيو

    Shan Cureton

    Send us a text We welcome Shan Cureton, Ruby Central's new Executive Director, who shares her entrepreneurial background and vision for the organization's future. Shan brings fresh perspectives on strengthening open source sustainability, increasing community engagement, and ensuring Ruby's legacy continues for the next generation. • Founded a tech-enabled ride service for students that grew to 60 drivers across 80 zip codes • Discovered Ruby Central after working in corporate social responsibility and immediately connected with the community • Currently on a "90-day listening tour" to understand community needs before implementing changes • Plans to increase visibility of Ruby Central's role in powering open source beyond conferences • Aims to bring youthful energy back to Ruby through outreach to students and startups • Shared public speaking tips from her experience as a communications professor • Looking forward to her first RailsConf and meeting community members in person • Post-RailsConf plans include a regional meetup tour and developing a three-year strategic roadmap • Creating new social impact initiatives to bridge the digital divide and expand Ruby's reach • Emphasizes this is just the "end of a phase" with exciting new developments ahead for Ruby Central Feel free to contact Shan on Slack or email with feedback, project ideas, or partnership opportunities. She welcomes everyone to say hello at RailsConf!

    ١٨ من الدقائق

حول

RailsConf 2025 will be the final RailsConf.  Let's talk and share our experiences from attending RailsConf over the years and being part of the Ruby on Rails community.