This week we talk with James Dycus about his journey from teacher to Python software developer.We talk about his background as a teacher and how het got into Python. How he joined our PDM program a few months ago and the amazing growth he has experienced since by building out a mature real world application using Django ?We talk about the idea behind his app, something he always wanted to build and now has accomplished, a functional MVP on the brink of being officially launched ?The app (product) addresses an important need in society: supporting men with mental struggles, a problem James deeply cares about ?We're proud how James has grown in PDM with us and how he has built out this cool project earning the skills + confidence to pivot into a developer, an inspiring story ?Last but not least we discuss some inspirational books related to mindset + self development.Enjoy this episode with James! Chapters:00:00 Intro snippet + music01:08 Episode and guest intro02:30 Intro James to the audience06:00 Inspiration by Sean (Teaching Python podcast)08:50 James PDM journey and app / idea he built out with us14:20 The benefit of building one big complex app / project17:20 ChatGPT and becoming resourceful after the fundamentals19:10 Name of the app: Bonded Brotherhood21:00 Next steps with the app (product)22:40 The value of having a real world project in your porfolio24:50 Python in the real world + living in fortunate times26:53 Book tip #1: The Discovery of Being (Rollo May)29:04 Book tip #2: Man's Search For Meaning30:10 Book tip #3: How to Think Like a Roman Emperor31:10 Wrap up and thanks32:27 Outro musicReach out to James on LinkedIn.Books mentioned.- The Discovery of Being- Man's Search For Meaning- How to Think Like a Roman EmperorCheck out the PDM program here.