On this episode, we have Raphael Quisumbing and Miguel Fermin joining us to discuss hackathon wins, the glory, the inactivity that often follows, and how to truly unleash innovation and talent through these events.Hackathons are often seen as crucibles of innovation, where raw talent transforms into brilliant solutions in a burst of creativity. But what happens after the winning pitch? This episode delves into the full lifecycle of a hackathon win, from the initial surge of excitement and achievement to the often-overlooked challenge of maintaining momentum and translating those ideas into long-term impact. Our guests will share their experiences with hackathon successes, discuss why many winning projects fade into inactivity, and explore strategies for nurturing hackathon-born innovations beyond the event. We'll examine how to leverage the talent, ideas, and energy generated to drive sustainable progress in the tech community and beyond.

How would you describe the overall experience of turning hackathon concepts into sustainable projects? (Generalization)

Turning hackathon concepts into sustainable projects can often feel hit and miss. The initial burst of creativity and intense collaboration during a hackathon is powerful for rapid prototyping and validating ideas. However, the true challenge begins post-event. It requires a dedicated team willing to commit long-term, resources for continued development, and a clear path to market or integration. Many winning projects don't progress beyond the initial glory due to lack of time, funding, or clear ownership. Success depends on deliberately planning for sustainability from the outset, rather than assuming momentum will carry the project forward naturally.

What role do hackathons play in an IT professional's career development, beyond just winning? (Generalization)

Beyond winning, hackathons offer significant benefits for an IT professional's career. They provide a unique environment for rapid skill acquisition, especially in new technologies or domains. It's a low-risk setting to experiment with unconventional solutions and gain practical experience under pressure. Networking opportunities are immense, connecting participants with mentors, potential collaborators, and recruiters. Even if a project is a hit and miss in terms of commercial viability, the experience sharpens problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and presentation skills. These are invaluable for professional growth and demonstrate a pro-active, innovative mindset to future employers.

What are common reasons why promising hackathon projects end up in inactivity, and how can this be mitigated? (Generalization)

Promising hackathon projects often fall into inactivity for several reasons. A primary factor is the lack of dedicated follow-up after the event; participants return to their regular jobs, and momentum is lost. Scarcity of resources, including funding, development time, and continued mentorship, also plays a huge role. Sometimes, the initial concept, while brilliant for a hackathon, isn't truly sustainable or scalable in a real-world context. To mitigate this, teams should aim to establish a clear post-hackathon plan, seek internal or external support, and identify dedicated project champions. Focusing on the most viable features for continued development rather than trying to perfect everything immediately can also help.

What advice would you give to participants to ensure their hackathon ideas have a more sustainable future? (Generalization)

For a more sustainable future, participants should consider long-term viability from the start. Focus on solving a genuine problem and immediately define a minimum viable product (MVP) post-event. Secure team commitment and seek mentors or sponsors for continued support. Remember, translating hackathon glory into a lasting project can be hit and miss without persistent follow-through.

On this episode, we have Asi Guiang and Miguel Fermin joining us to navigate the world of online learning platforms, from Udemy to YouTube, and explore whether exclusive courses are truly worth paying for.

In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, continuous learning is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. But with a plethora of online learning platforms vying for our attention, how do we choose the right one? Join us as we navigate the vast universe of digital education, from the structured, paid courses on platforms like Udemy to the free, yet often invaluable, resources on YouTube. We'll delve into the pros and cons of exclusive content, explore the diverse learning styles these platforms cater to, and ultimately help you decide where to invest your time and money for effective tech upskilling. Are those premium courses truly worth the price tag, or can you achieve your learning goals with freely available content? Let's find out!

Reflecting on your journey into the tech world, where did you first encounter and begin learning a programming language, and what was that initial experience like? (Generalization)Many individuals in the tech field often start their programming journey through a variety of avenues. Some might have been introduced to coding in academic settings, while others may have taken their first steps using free online resources or introductory courses on platforms like Codecademy or Khan Academy. These initial experiences can range from exciting and empowering to slightly challenging as foundational concepts are grasped. The key is often the accessibility and the hands-on nature of these early learning stages.Difference between Udemy and YouTube? (Generalization)Platforms like Udemy typically offer structured courses with a defined curriculum, often including exercises, assignments, and completion certificates. The content is usually curated and presented by instructors who aim for a comprehensive learning experience. In contrast, YouTube provides a vast library of videos on virtually any topic, often created by individual enthusiasts or experts. While incredibly valuable for specific tutorials or introductions, the learning path can be less structured, and the quality and depth can vary significantly. Udemy often involves a financial investment for individual courses, whereas YouTube's primary content is free, though creators may offer supplementary paid resources.How did AI affect your upskilling journey? (Generalization)AI has become an increasingly significant tool in the upskilling journey for many. AI-powered learning platforms can offer personalized learning paths, recommend relevant content based on skill gaps, and even provide intelligent feedback on coding exercises. Translation tools and AI-driven summarization can help access and digest information from diverse sources more efficiently. Furthermore, AI itself is a rapidly evolving field, making continuous learning about its applications and implications crucial for staying competitive in the tech industry.

What are the key things someone should think about when deciding whether to pay for exclusive tech courses or use free learning materials? (Generalization)When choosing between paid and free learning resources, several factors come into play. Paid courses often offer structure, curated content, instructor support, and recognized certifications, which can be beneficial for career advancement and a more guided learning experience. However, free resources like YouTube, documentation, and community forums provide incredible value and flexibility, especially for self-motivated learners or those on a tight budget. The ideal choice often depends on an individual's learning style, the depth of knowledge required, their budget, and the level of structure and support they need to succeed. Sometimes, a blended approach, utilizing both paid and free resources, can be the most effective strategy.

Are we chasing careers or certainty? We reflect on career ups and downs versus the illusion of control in seeking certainty.