Leinonen

Code, Mindfulness & Minimalism

August 13, 2025

Why Developers Should Switch from Coffee to Matcha

Switching from coffee to matcha can transform a developer's productivity routine. Unlike coffee's energy spikes and crashes, matcha provides a steady 4-6 hours of "calm alertness" thanks to L-theanine, enhancing focus and concentration. This powerful combination promotes a meditative state ideal for thoughtful coding, reduces distractions, and supports better decision-making. Beyond productivity, matcha is gentler on the stomach, rich in antioxidants, and can be part of a mindful ritual to start your day. Try matcha for sustained energy and improved health, and see how it elevates your coding sessions.

Read more

August 10, 2025

Building Lisp from the Ground Up

Discover the magic of Lisp's minimalism as we build a Lisp interpreter from scratch using just seven primitives and a touch of practical additions. This journey reveals how McCarthy's foundational principles create a universe of computational possibilities, demonstrating the profound elegance of simplicity in programming. Dive in to see how complex concepts emerge naturally from these basic building blocks and transform your understanding of programming's core essence.

Read more

August 8, 2025

Evaluating Development Assignments: Part 3 - Growth, Environment & Expectations

In the final part of our series on evaluating development assignments, we delve into the crucial aspects of professional growth, working environment, and setting clear expectations. Discover how to identify assignments that will enhance your career by asking key questions about learning opportunities, environment management, and role expectations. Learn to interpret responses, identify red flags, and ensure each assignment aligns with your career goals. By systematically asking these questions, you can choose projects that not only challenge you but also support your growth and professional aspirations.

Read more

August 6, 2025

Evaluating Development Assignments: Part 2 - Development Practices & Team Dynamics

In the second installment of our series on evaluating development assignments, we delve into the crucial aspects of work practices and team dynamics that can make or break your consulting experience. Discover the significance of a seamless release process, robust testing practices, and the composition of a balanced, stable team. Learn how effective collaboration between developers and business stakeholders can drive project success. Key insights include seeking release processes that empower, testing that builds confidence, collaborative teams, and respectful business relationships. Be wary of red flags like "hero culture" and siloed teams, and embrace green flags such as stress-free deployments and cross-functional collaboration.

Read more