Mechanical Ink Podcast

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling sits down with Ethan Marcotte, a prominent figure in web design known for coining the term "responsive web design." Ethan's journey in the design world spans over two decades, during which he has significantly influenced how websites are created and experienced across various devices.

Beyond his contributions to design, Ethan has become a vocal advocate for labor rights in the tech industry. His book, "You Deserve a Tech Union," delves into the importance of unionization, especially in an industry marked by precarity and frequent layoffs. Through collective bargaining, tech workers can secure better working conditions, fair wages, and job security, which are often lacking in the current pro-business U.S. labor landscape.

The episode also touches on the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Ethan expressed concerns about the use of training data without proper consent and the broader implications of AI on labor. His proactive stance includes measures to prevent AI platforms from using his website's content, highlighting the need for greater control and transparency in how AI technologies operate.

Accessibility remains a cornerstone of Ethan's vision for the web. He argues that web accessibility should be integrated from the start, rather than being an afterthought. This approach ensures that all users, regardless of their abilities, can interact with web content effectively. Design systems play a crucial role in achieving this by providing a structured approach to creating accessible and performant web components, but there needs to be support and buy-in at an organizational level.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, Ethan's insights offer valuable guidance on navigating its complexities. His advocacy for responsive design, worker power, and ethical AI underscores the need for a more inclusive, fair, and thoughtful approach to technology. By embracing these principles, we can build a better web that serves everyone.

Links

Ethan Marcotte on LinkedIn
Ethan Marcotte on the web
You deserve a tech union
Co-op Series Part I: Our decision to pursue worker-ownership
The ShopTalk Show podcast
Ursula Franklin - The Real World of Technology
Making version noir
Erika Hall’s chicken pics
Mandy Brown’s, A Working Library
Mandy Brown - Everything changes
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling sits down with Daniel Beck, a documentation engineer writer based in Amsterdam. Daniel discusses his extensive career in software documentation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the audience and balancing quality content with effective tooling. He elaborates on the challenges of identifying with job titles such as writer, engineer, or documentation engineer, and reflects on his experiences working on MDN Web Docs. The conversation explores the intricacies of contributing to open-source projects, highlighting the need for soft skills.

Daniel introduces projects like Baseline and Web Features, which provide critical data on web platform support, and shares his perspective on the potential and limitations of AI in technical writing. Throughout the discussion, the importance of process, tools, and reader-centered documentation remains a central theme.

Links

Daniel Beck on LinkedIn
Daniel Beck on the web
Baseline
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling sits down with Miriam Suzanne, a multifaceted expert in web development, an invited expert to the CSS Working Group, and a founder of OddBird. Our discussion spanned a range of topics, from the historical evolution of the web, the impact of social media and algorithms on creativity, the importance of collaboration, the process of writing a specification, the intricacies of modern CSS, the future of Sass, the challenges of funding open-source and work on web standards, and the exciting future of the web.

We also touch on the potential role of large language models (AI) in web development and the potential role AI can play. We also discuss approaches to writing CSS in the modern web development landscape and how we can play to the strengths of CSS, not be afraid to let go of some control, and embrace the beauty of CSS.

Miriam also shares some exciting upcoming features of CSS, the indie web, and the joy of building for the web in small, close-knit teams. It is a far-reaching, insightful, and inspiring conversation.

Links

Miriam Suzanne on LinkedIn
Miriam Suzanne on the Web
Cascading Layouts Workshop
Oddbird
Sass
The Business Site
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling hosts Chris DeMars, a Senior Developer Advocate at DigitalOcean. Chris shares his journey in the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of community and accessibility in web development. He delves into the role of a Developer Advocate, highlighting the need to bridge the gap between the community and the organization.

Chris discusses his passion for web accessibility, driven by personal experiences, and the evolution of front-end development. He also touches on the significance of open-source contributions, and the value of Hacktoberfest, and offers insights into effective leadership.

Beyond work, Chris enjoys various hobbies, including paintball, fishing, and the paranormal. The conversation concludes with reflections on the responsible use of AI and advice for those navigating their tech careers.

Links

Chris DeMars on LinkedIn
Chris DeMars on GitHub
CSS Tricks Site Editor role at DigitalOcean
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode, host Schalk Neethling interviews Jennifer Weis, the founder of Mission Save A Life, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, promoting education, and driving action around mental health and suicide prevention. Jen shares her personal journey and the genesis of Mission Save A Life, which was born out of the tragic loss of her son's friend to suicide.

Take care of yourself while listening. We touch on sensitive topics as part of this podcast. Those topics can include mental illness, depression, suicide ideation, death, and related mental health and mental illness topics. We understand that these subjects can be sensitive and may be triggering for some individuals. We encourage you to prioritize your well-being and mental health while listening. If you feel overwhelmed or need support, please get in touch with a mental health professional or a helpline in your country. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available. Follow the link to find the help you need.

Jen delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, highlighting the effects of isolation, loss of identity, and the constant fear signals from mask-wearing (not suggesting that mask-wearing during the pandemic was wrong or bad in any way). She also discusses the double-edged nature of technology and social media, which can exacerbate mental health challenges through rapid change, constant connectivity, and online harassment, but can also be powerful tools for education and support.

Throughout the conversation, Jen emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of suicidal ideation and having open conversations about mental health and suicide. She provides actionable advice on how to approach these conversations in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, emphasizing the need to listen without trying to "fix" the situation.

Jen also explores the significance of finding purpose, not being tied to a single identity, and being open to opportunities, especially during difficult life transitions such as job loss or divorce. She shares her own experiences with manifestation and letting go of control, encouraging listeners to embrace challenges as opportunities for personal growth and development.

The episode also delves into the various ways individuals can contribute to mental health initiatives like Mission Save A Life, regardless of their skills or backgrounds. Jen highlights opportunities for storytelling, fundraising, application development, and more, emphasizing the organization's community-driven approach and the belief that everyone has a role to play in promoting mental wellness.

Links

Jennifer Weis on LinkedIn
Mission Save A Life
Mission Save A Life Community
Morning Cup
Mission Save A Life Survey
Mission Save A Life on LinkedIn
Mission Save A Life on Instagram
Mission Save A Life on Facebook
Mission Save A Life on YouTube
Mission Save A Life on X
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling sits down with web accessibility specialist Hidde de Vries. We discuss the NL Design System project, an ambitious open-source initiative by the Dutch government aimed at creating a unified design system and set of components for all government websites and digital services. The project takes a collaborative approach, where different government organizations contribute components, guidelines, and user research, fostering a community-driven effort towards accessibility and inclusivity.

Web accessibility emerges as a central theme, emphasizing the importance of ensuring digital products and services are usable for everyone, including people with disabilities. The discussion delves into the challenges of automated accessibility tools and overlays, highlighting the need for manual testing and a deep understanding of accessibility principles. Additionally, the role of AI and language models in accessibility is explored, recognizing their potential benefits, such as automated transcription, while acknowledging their limitations in understanding context and intent.

The significance of HTML and the evolution of web standards is also highlighted, with Hidde expressing excitement about new features like the popover attribute and invokers API, which simplify the implementation of accessible components and interactions. Furthermore, the impact of AI-generated code on web accessibility is discussed, emphasizing the need to guide and train these models to prioritize accessibility and produce code that adheres to accessibility standards and best practices.

Links

Hidde de Vries on LinkedIn
Hidde de Vries on the Web
Hidde de Vries on GitHub
Talk: Could browsers fix more accessibility problems automatically?
Overlay Fact Sheet
On popover accessibility: what the browser does and doesn’t do
Invokers API
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling sits down with Rachel Nabors, whose journey from a cartoonist lost in the world of comics to a beacon in the tech community embodies the spirit of innovation and adaptability. Rachel's story is a testament to the power of embracing change, leveraging one's unique skill set, and the importance of continuous learning in the fast-paced tech industry.

The podcast delves into the evolving landscape of coding jobs, where foundational skills in coding remain indispensable despite the rapid advancements in technology. Rachel's experiences highlight how animation, often perceived through the lens of entertainment, plays a crucial role in enhancing user experience and accessibility in web development.

A focal point of their conversation is the value of open-source contributions and active participation in tech communities. Rachel advocates for the democratization of tech education, emphasizing the need to make learning resources more accessible and to foster environments that encourage mentorship and support.

Moreover, Rachel offers advice for those navigating the uncertainties of the tech industry. She underscores the importance of resilience, finding work that fulfills, and the perpetual pursuit of knowledge. Her insights serve as a guide for not only surviving but thriving in the ever-changing tech landscape.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone interested in technology, education, and the intersection of art and science. Rachel Nabors' journey is a compelling narrative of transformation, illustrating the endless possibilities that await those willing to explore the frontiers of digital innovation.

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Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of Open Source, Developer First APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Sign up for their SaaS offering and focus on the core value of your product.

Links

Rachel Nabors on LinkedIn
Rachel on GitHub
The Tech Career Survival Guide
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In a riveting episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling welcomed Matteo Collina, a luminary in the Node.js community whose work has amassed over 22 billion downloads on npm in 2023 for the various open source modules he maintains. This episode was not just a deep dive into the technical intricacies of Node.js but also an enlightening discourse on the security landscape, community engagement, and the future of back-end development with the introduction of Platformatic. Here's a closer look at the discussions that made this episode a must-listen for developers.

Community at the Heart of Technology

Matteo Collina's passion for making technology accessible and fostering community engagement shone through in the conversation. He highlighted the significance of community-driven development and the role of feedback in improving technology. It's clear that for Matteo, the essence of his work extends beyond code; it's about creating a space where people can engage, learn, and contribute to the growth of technology.

Navigating the Security Landscape

Security within the Node.js ecosystem was a critical theme of the conversation. Matteo emphasized the importance of validating and sanitizing data to mitigate security risks. He shared insightful advice on maintaining npm packages, advocating for careful selection and regular updates to avoid vulnerabilities. Additionally, Matteo recommended using NVM for Node.js installation, highlighting the security pitfalls associated with improper package management.

A Call for Maintenance and Updates

One of the striking points Matteo made was the continuous need for software maintenance. He likened open-source projects to maintaining a house, where chores and updates are never-ending. This analogy underscores the dynamic nature of technology and the importance of keeping software up to date to safeguard against security vulnerabilities.

Forward-Looking: The Future of Node.js

Looking ahead, Matteo teased upcoming developments in Node.js, hinting at features that developers have long requested. While specifics were kept under wraps, the excitement for what's to come was palpable. This forward-looking discussion served as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of technology and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

For developers looking to deepen their understanding of Node.js and security best practices, this episode is an invaluable resource. Engage with the community, heed Matteo's advice on security, and stay tuned for the exciting developments in Node.js. The future is bright, and together, we can build a more secure, efficient, and community-driven tech ecosystem.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of Open Source, Developer First APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Sign up for their SaaS offering and focus on the core value of your product.

Links

Matteo Collina on Linked
Matteo Collina on the Web
Platformatic
You're Installing Node.js Wrong. That's OK, Here Is How To Fix It
Prototype-Poisoning
Secure json-parse
OWASP
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling sits down with Zach Leatherman, a renowned figure in the web development community, best known for his work on the static site generator 11ty. Their conversation takes us through a journey of understanding the intrinsic link between web performance and accessibility, shining a light on the importance of ensuring the web remains an inclusive space for all.

As they delve into the role of open source in the tech ecosystem, Zach shares his perspective on how it serves as a crucial platform for learning and growth, especially for junior developers navigating the complexities of the web. The discussion on web components and Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) brings to the forefront the challenges and opportunities that lie in the adoption and development of these technologies, amidst the backdrop of an industry dominated by tech giants and potential harm to the health of the open web.

This episode not only provides a deep dive into the technicalities of web development but also celebrates the spirit of sharing and collaboration that defines the open-source community. Zach's insights into the future of web development, coupled with Schalk's probing questions, make for an enlightening discussion that's as informative as it is inspiring. Whether you're a budding developer or a seasoned pro, there's something in this conversation for everyone who's ever marveled at the power and potential of the web.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of Open Source, Developer First APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Sign up for their SaaS offering and focus on the core value of your product.

Links

Zach Leatherman on LinkedIn
Zach Leatherman on the Web
11ty
Jamstack Panel: Multiple JavaScript Frameworks Are a Good Thing
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In the latest episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling sits down with Mozilla's Liv Erickson to explore the frontiers of internet technology and its implications for our digital future. As a bastion for privacy, accessibility, and open web advocacy, Mozilla's efforts are crucial in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. Liv, with her unique blend of creativity and technological expertise, provides fascinating insights into the role of AI and XR technologies in shaping our online experiences.

The discussion also delves into Liv’s Memory Cache project, an innovative endeavor that epitomizes the creative potential of technology to capture and preserve our most precious memories in the digital realm. This project emphasizes the potential of open-source and its role in building privacy-respecting AI tools and agents.

As the conversation unfolds, Liv and Schalk ponder the future of web technologies, emphasizing the need for an internet that remains open, accessible, and user-centric. The dialogue between innovation and ethics, privacy and creativity, is at the heart of this discussion, offering listeners a comprehensive view of what the future might hold for the internet and our place within it.

This episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast not only enlightens but also inspires, urging us to envision an internet that continues to serve as a platform for innovation, expression, and connection. As we look to the future, the insights shared by Liv underscore the importance of fostering an online environment that respects user privacy, champions accessibility, and celebrates the creative potential inherent in each of us.

Thank you for reading Mechanical Ink - Open Source - Open Web - Open Startup. This post is public so feel free to share it.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of Open Source, Developer First APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Sign up for their SaaS offering and focus on the core value of your product.

Links

Liv Erickson on LinkedIn
MemoryCache
Augmenting Local AI with Browser Data: Introducing MemoryCache
Liv’s Blog
Keeping Liv accountable ✌️- Conscious Realities
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In this collaboration between the CHAOSScast and Mechanical Ink podcasts, hosts Dawn Foster and Schalk Neethling are joined by guests Daniel Izquierdo and Sean Goggins to discuss open-source community health metrics.

The episode brings together two fascinating open-source projects - GrimoireLab and Augur - that aim to provide insights into the health of open-source software communities. By gathering data from various platforms and channels, and analyzing contributor activity, issues, pull requests, and conversations, these projects shine a light on the inner workings of open-source projects.

You have Sean Goggins, a university researcher who co-created Augur to dissect community interactions at scale. Then you have Daniel Izquierdo whose startup Bitergia built GrimoireLab to offer open source analytics as a service. Both share insightful stories on the evolving landscape of inner source and metrics-driven community management. It's a great listen for anyone involved in running open-source projects or communities.

Beyond project leads, the conversation also touches on why understanding community health is vital today for enterprise adopters to track their dependencies and influence. And as Dawn Foster from CHAOSS chips in, you get an important reminder to not get carried away chasing tools without clarity on what specific questions you want answered from the underlying data.

Overall, a stimulating mix of history and future direction on using metrics to guide open-source communities toward greater sustainability.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Dawn Foster on LinkedIn
Daniel Izquierdo on LinkedIn
Sean Goggins on LinkedIn
CHAOSScast
CHAOSS project
CHAOSS Software Overview
CHAOSS project on GitHub
Augur Software as a Service (SaaS)
GrimoireLab SaaS
Beyond the Repository
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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In a special episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling shines a spotlight on an open-source project revolutionizing the marketing automation landscape—Mautic. Joined by Ruth Cheesley, the project lead of Mautic, listeners are treated to an insightful conversation that not only demystifies marketing automation but also celebrates the power of open-source collaboration.

Ruth Cheesley's story is not one you'd expect in the tech world. With a background in sports science and physiotherapy, Ruth's journey to becoming the project lead of Mautic is a testament to the open-source community's ability to embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds. Her narrative is a beacon for anyone looking to pivot into technology, showcasing that passion and curiosity can pave the way to influential roles in the tech sphere.

Mautic, as Ruth eloquently describes, is more than just a marketing automation platform; it's a community-driven project that leverages the collective intelligence of its users to create a tool that rivals even the most advanced proprietary software. The platform's capabilities, from email automation to dynamic content and CRM integration, underscore the potential of open-source projects to deliver cutting-edge technology.

But what stands out most in this conversation is the emphasis on community. Mautic thrives on contributions from individuals around the globe, each bringing their expertise and enthusiasm to the project. This collaborative spirit not only accelerates the platform's development but also fosters a sense of belonging among its contributors. It's a powerful reminder of how open-source projects can drive innovation through collective effort.

Looking ahead, Ruth shares exciting developments on the horizon for Mautic, including user interface improvements and new features designed to enhance the user experience. These advancements promise to make Mautic even more accessible and powerful, ensuring its place at the forefront of marketing automation technology.

For indie creators and marketers alike, Mautic offers a compelling solution that balances advanced functionality with the ethos of open-source collaboration. This episode of Mechanical Ink not only highlights the platform's capabilities but also celebrates the community behind it. As Ruth Cheesley and the Mautic project continue to push the boundaries of what open-source can achieve in the marketing domain, they offer a shining example of innovation, inclusivity, and the power of community.

Listeners are left with a clear message: in the world of open-source, the possibilities are limitless, and Mautic is leading the charge in transforming the marketing automation landscape.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Ruth Cheesley on LinkedIn
Mautic
Contribute to Mautic
Join the Mautic Slack
Mautic on GitHub
Mautic Docs - General | DevDocs
Mautic Open Startup reports - General | Quarterly
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

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The open-source ecosystem experienced a monumental shift in 2023, as detailed by Martin Woodward, VP of Developer Relations at GitHub, on the Mechanical Ink Podcast. The Octoverse report highlighted that more first-time contributors joined the open-source community than ever before. But why?

Global Open Source Contributions Surge

Martin attributed this influx to a blend of factors, including the lowered barriers to entry, thanks to GitHub's streamlined tools and inclusive strategies. The rise of diverse contributors from various economic backgrounds indicates a democratization of technology, where economic growth enables more individuals to invest time in open source.

Security at the Forefront

GitHub's focus on security has bolstered the confidence of developers. From Dependabot's automated vulnerability patching to secret scanning and branch protection features, GitHub is making it easier for maintainers to focus on innovation rather than administration.

AI's Transformative Impact

The integration of AI into development tools, exemplified by GitHub Copilot, offers a glimpse into a future where coding assistance is readily accessible. This advancement, however, comes with the responsibility to ensure ethical use and equitable access.

Looking Ahead

Woodward's vision is optimistic yet grounded. He stresses the importance of ethical considerations and resource management as we forge ahead into this new technological era. Open source isn't just about code; it's about community, collaboration, and the collective drive to advance technology responsibly.

We've only scratched the surface here. For a deep dive into the Octoverse 2023 insights and to hear more from Martin Woodward, listen to the full podcast episode.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Martin Woodward on LinkedIn
Martin Woodward on GitHub
The 2023 Octoverse Report
Push protection is generally available, and free for all public repositories
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink Studio

Community

Join the community on Slack
Continue the conversation on GitHub or here on Substack
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In this Mechanical Ink podcast episode, Schalk Neethling leads an in-depth conversation with Isaac Levin and Richard Littauer, exploring crucial aspects of open-source contribution, the impact of diversity in tech, and strategies for sustainable open-source projects.

Isaac shares insights from his involvement in the .NET community, highlighting the importance of acknowledging open-source efforts in professional settings.

Richard discusses the roles of Sustain and Open Collective in supporting open source projects financially and through community engagement, stressing the necessity for a sustainable model.

The dialogue emphasizes the collective responsibility of both individuals and corporations in fostering an inclusive, supportive open source environment.

Note: We had some challenges with Issac’s audio, but the conversation is so insightful I would encourage everyone to listen past that.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Isaac Levin on LinkedIn
Richard Littauer on LinkedIn
Sustain OSS
Sustain OSS Podcast
Open Collective
Coffee and Open Source
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink

Community

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Continue the conversation on GitHub or here on Substack
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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Deepak Prabhakara from BoxyHQ shared his journey in the tech world, starting from his early days in Bangalore, India. His story is one of passion for technology, leading to significant roles in startups and eventually founding BoxyHQ. The discussion centered around BoxyHQ’s solutions like single sign-on, directory sync, and audit logs, all designed to enhance enterprise readiness for startups and growing companies.

A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to the open-source philosophy of BoxyHQ, particularly their decision to use the Apache 2 license. This approach aligns with their goal to make complex security protocols more accessible and user-friendly for developers. Deepak provided a detailed explanation of concepts like authentication, authorization, SAML, and SAML federation, emphasizing how BoxyHQ simplifies these for their users.

Looking ahead, Deepak shared insights into BoxyHQ's roadmap, highlighting the development of new products like the Data Privacy Vault. This forward-thinking approach underscores BoxyHQ’s commitment to staying at the forefront of evolving security and privacy needs in the tech world.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Deepak Prabhakara
Sama Carlos Samame
BoxyHQ on the Web
SAML Jackson
BoxyHQ SaaS Starter Kit
Retraced Audit Logs
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink

Community

Join the community on Slack
Continue the conversation on GitHub or here on Substack
Support the podcast on Patreon
Recorded with Riverside.fm (Affiliate link)

Help Others Find The Podcast

Rate and review on Spotify
Rate and review on Apple Podcasts

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit schalkneethling.substack.com

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling engaged in a profound conversation with Taylor Fairbank and Kai Katschthaler from Distribute Aid. They delved into the intersection of technology and humanitarian aid, emphasizing the importance of understanding ground-level needs over imposing tech solutions. Taylor narrated his transition from a tech background to co-founding Distribute Aid, influenced by his experiences in startups and the socio-political climate. Kai introduced the Open Source Explorers Program, highlighting its inclusive nature and role in integrating diverse skills into humanitarian projects. The discussion also touched upon the personal aspects of working in this field, including the impact of neurodiversity and gender identity on their experiences and perspectives.

The conversation illuminated the challenges and complexities of merging technology with humanitarian efforts, showcasing Distribute Aid’s holistic approach that prioritizes real-world solutions. Key insights included the value of ground-level insights, leveraging technology for a greater impact, the significance of inclusivity in tech and aid, and the potential of open-source projects in driving social good. The episode concluded with a note on the personal and professional challenges faced in sustaining non-profit initiatives like Distribute Aid, yet underscored the profound impact such work can have in shaping a more equitable and responsive humanitarian sector.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Taylor Fairbank on LinkedIn
Kai Katschthaler on LinkedIn
Distribute Aid
Open Source Explorers
Distribute Aid on GitHub
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink

Community

Join the community on Slack
Continue the conversation on GitHub or here on Substack
Support the podcast on Patreon
Recorded with Riverside.fm (Affiliate link)

Help Others Find The Podcast

Rate and review on Spotify
Rate and review on Apple Podcasts

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit schalkneethling.substack.com

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling interviews Brian (bdougie) Douglas, the founder of Open Sauced. They delve into the significance of open-source contributions and the impact of tools like Open Sauced in providing comprehensive insights and analytics for open-source projects.

Brian discusses the importance of contributions from senior engineers in the open-source community and how these contributions shape the ecosystem. The conversation highlights Open Sauced’s capabilities in offering detailed insights at both the repository and organizational levels, addressing a common challenge faced by open-source projects.

They explore various metrics crucial for assessing the health and progress of open-source projects, such as PR velocity, which measures the speed at which pull requests are handled, and the engagement of new contributors. Brian emphasizes the need for recognizing valuable contributions and managing the challenges that come with community building, such as dealing with spam and ineffective contributions.

The episode also touches on the broader implications of these contributions for professional growth and the sustainability of the open-source community. Brian shares insights into how Open Sauced aids in building a sustainable community by providing the necessary tools to manage and understand these contributions effectively.

Sponsored By

Reduce time to market without sacrificing your security posture! BoxyHQ’s suite of APIs for security and privacy helps engineering teams build and ship compliant cloud applications faster. Because open source is at the heart of BoxyHQ, you can choose to integrate BoxyHQ Jackson through their NPM module, self-hosting (with support options), or sign up for their SaaS offering and let BoxyHQ do the heavy lifting.

Links

Brian (bdougie) Douglas on LinkedIn
Open Sauced
The Pizza CLI
Astro
Vitejs
Next.js
OpenAI Embeddings
HuggingFace
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink

Community

Join the community on Slack
Continue the conversation on GitHub or here on Substack
Support the podcast on Patreon
Recorded with Riverside.fm (Affiliate link)

Help Others Find The Podcast

Rate and review on Spotify
Rate and review on Apple Podcasts

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit schalkneethling.substack.com

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, host Schalk Neethling speaks with Brian McGonagill, an advocate for open source software. Brian shares his unconventional career path, which spans roles at the Large Hadron Collider, Intel, and as a police officer, leading up to his current advocacy for open source software. His journey into the open source world began with his involvement in the Open Science Grid project, which sparked his interest in Linux and open source software.

They also dive into a discussion that revolves around Brian's YouTube video, "Giving up on Open Source". This video was inspired by a post on an open source subreddit, reflecting on how negative attitudes and behaviors can detrimentally impact the open source community. Brian and Schalk delve into the importance of a positive first experience in open source projects, emphasizing that toxic environments can permanently deter newcomers. This conversation underscores the need for fostering a welcoming and inclusive community in open source initiatives.

Brian also expresses concerns over data privacy in social media and the impetus this provides in seeking open source alternatives. He founded the 'Awesome Open Source' YouTube channel, aiming to demystify open source software through detailed tutorials for beginners. The podcast also highlights the critical role of user experience in open source software and the importance of community feedback in enhancing these projects.

Community

Join the community on Slack
Continue the conversation on GitHub or here on Substack
Support the podcast on Patreon
Recorded with Riverside.fm (Affiliate link)

Help Others Find The Podcast

Rate and review on Spotify
Rate and review on Apple Podcasts

Links

Brian McGonagill on LinkedIn
Support Brian on Patreon
Awesome Open Source on YouTube
Giving up on Open Source (YouTube)
Headscale / Tailscale (YouTube)
Tabby (YouTube)
Dashy (YouTube)
ULauncher (YouTube)
Shotcut (YouTube)
Trillium Notes (YouTube)
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Mechanical Ink

Thanks for reading Mechanical Ink - Open Source - Open Web - Open Startup! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit schalkneethling.substack.com

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, hosted by Schalk Neethling, guest Anna Smith takes listeners on a journey exploring her multifaceted experiences and perspectives. Anna shares her unique insights on subjects ranging from climate change and the role of AI in addressing global challenges to the value of embracing boredom for creative thinking. Through her lens as a cross-cultural explorer, she reflects on the transformative impact of living in different parts of the world, highlighting the profound value of diverse global perspectives. With thought-provoking quotes and engaging discourse, this episode offers a rich tapestry of wisdom and curiosity that invites listeners to broaden their horizons and view the world through a more empathetic and creative lens.

Links

Anna Smith on LinkedIn
Anna on the Web
Schalk Neethling on LinkedIn
Continue the discussion on GitHub.
Join the community on Slack.
Mechanical Ink

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit schalkneethling.substack.com

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In this episode, host Schalk Neethling talks with Chris DiBona, a prominent figure in the open source community and former director of open source at Google. They discuss a range of topics, including DiBona's journey in the open-source community, his time at Google, and his new consulting company, Halogenica. This is a rare opportunity to hear a wonderful slice of tech history.

Key Points:

Chris DiBona's Journey in Open Source: DiBona shares his experiences from his early days using Linux in 1995 to his time at VA Linux and Google. He emphasizes the importance of being involved in open source and having respectful relationships with the things that matter.
Healthy Open Source Community: DiBona believes a healthy open source community continually brings in new people and provides them with the resources they need to thrive.
Open Source in Developing Nations: DiBona acknowledges the potential of open source in creating opportunities for people in developing nations to gain experience and a variety of skills. However, he also recognizes the challenges to increasing contributions from these regions.
AI and its Implications: DiBona shares his thoughts on the potential of AI in industrial processes and the risks associated with using AI to hide bad behavior. He also discusses the potential for AI to help improve processes and act as a guide in various industries.
Rocky Linux: DiBona talks about his recent appointment as a board member of Rocky Linux. He praises the team's dedication to creating a reliable Linux distribution that serves its users well and their focus on understanding their users' needs.
Involvement in TV Shows: DiBona shares his experiences working on TV shows like Silicon Valley and Good Omens. He discusses how these experiences have helped him think from different perspectives and approach problems differently.

Links

Chris DiBona - LinkedIn Profile
VA Linux - Wikipedia Page
Google Open Source - Official Website
Fractured Veil - Game Website
Points of Light Foundation - Official Website
Open Sources (Book) - Amazon Link
GPT4ALL - Project Website
Science Foo Camp - Wikipedia Page
Slashdot - Official Website
Khan Academy - Official Website
Khan Lab School - Official Website
Rocky Linux - Official Website
Silicon Valley (TV Show) - IMDb Page
Good Omens (TV Show) - IMDb Page

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This week, the guest on the podcast is Vicky (VM) Brasseur. She has over 30 years of experience in the world of open source and is currently helping large companies with their open source strategies. She has written the book, “Forge your future with Open Source” and is currently writing her second book. During the episode, we touch on topics such as ensuring we create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive space within the open source ecosystem. We touch on topics explored in her first book and how it relates to those new to the tech world and open source. We also touch on some challenges, such as the influx of open-source projects, lack of knowledge (especially around licensing), and monocultures. There is a wealth of incredible information shared in this episode that is applicable to everyone, no matter where you are in your career.

Continue the conversation on Discord.

Links

VM (Vicky) Brasseur on the Web
VM (Vicky) Brasseur on Mastodon
VM (Vicky) Brasseur on GitHub
VM (Vicky) Brasseur on Gitlab
Third World Problems
OpenStack
AMA with Vicky (VM) Brasseur
Forge your future with Open Source
VSCode extensions for writers
CStitch
7 Amazing Facts About Polydactyl Cats
What is managing up?
Open-Source is a community, not a brand
Stocking cap pattern on Ravelry
The Open Source Definition
FLOSS Foundations

Recorded with Riverside and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling talks with Elena Lape, founder of Holopin, about community, shared values, and having each other's best interests in mind. They discuss the importance of contributor recognition, the Holopin open-source program, its tech stack, and adopting open standards. Other topics include Elena’s work while at GitHub, HTTPie, Paralus, and OpenCost. The conversation concludes with a discussion about our concerns over AI's impact on junior developers, people in developing countries, mental health, and the need for human connection.

Continue the conversation on Discord.

Links

Holopin
Elena Lape on the Web
Elena Lape on GitHub
Elena Lape on LinkedIn
Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) project template documentation - On GitHub
Holopin GitHub Bot
Holopin Discord Bot
Allo-Allo - Welcome GitHub Action
Incentivizing contributors to move up the ladder
Joomla
Open Badges
PlanetScale
Transloadit
Chef AI - How to build an AI app
HTTPie
HTTPie 101
Zack Koppert - Open sourcing GitHub’s OSPO
GitHub Student Developer Pack
Mozilla Responsible AI Challenge
Pause Giant AI Experiments: An Open Letter
Stability AI

Recorded with Riverside and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling chats with Zack Koppert from GitHub about open sourcing GitHub's open-source program office (OSPO) process, policies, and guidance. They cover a range of topics, including what an open source program office is, how it can be a vehicle for change, and key metrics to demonstrate the value and impact of an OSPO. They also touch on the use of a contributor license agreements (CLAs) and how to archive a project responsibly.

They also touch on the super linter GitHub Action, share some resources for writing GitHub Actions, the lesser known .github repository, OpenSource.guide, and a wealth of related topics. Tune in to learn more about how GitHub is empowering OSPOs everywhere!

Continue the conversation on Discord.

Links

Zack Koppert on GitHub
Zack Koppert on the Web
Zack Koppert on LinkedIn
Coding Coach
Tektronix
Super Linter
TODO Group
act - Run GitHub Actions locally
Quick start for GitHub Actions
GitHub Actions guides
Five reasons why organisations should invest in open-source
An open source project to empower OSPOs everywhere
GitHub OSPO repository
Chris DiBona on LinkedIn
Open Source at Google
OpenSource.guide
MDN Web Docs on GitHub
Atom on GitHub
How to use the .github repository
Contributor license agreement
Maximise your organisation’s public presence
Mike McQuaid - Saying No

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk Neethling shares his experience attending a workshop on ethical reflection in AI research reviews at MozFest 2023. The workshop explored how research reviews are conducted. Participants were grouped into six breakout rooms to discuss different example research projects. Schalk joined the group that focused on a VPN app study. The session raised critical questions about the study's funding source, assumed institutional knowledge, and data filtering practices. The group also discussed concerns about data backups, the end goal of the study, and the baseline against which results would be measured. This session highlighted the importance of a diverse review committee to ask challenging questions from different perspectives.

Schalk also touches on the Kwanele project, Bountiful features, and the AI Futures Lab, which demonstrated their work during the MozFest Trustworthy AI Working Group Demo Day.

Show notes can be found on Substack.

Additional reading

Lies, Damn Lies, and carbon calculators
Co-maintaining openness
ChatGPT, Galactica, and the Progress Trap
The complicated road to Open Source Sustainability
CommonVoice
Article19
Accessibility and Green Software [podcast]
AI Takes Over GitHub Analysis: The Future of Data Science is Here
European Commission Funding for Open-Source Federated Cloud Platform
Erase browser history: can AI reset the browser battle?
You Are Not a Parrot And a chatbot is not a human.
Signal CEO: We “1,000% won’t participate” in UK law to weaken encryption
There is no standard’: investigation finds AI algorithms objectify women’s bodies
RESF and B Corp: Open-Source Projects Get a New Home

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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This week I am cross-promoting my other podcast, the Mycelium Network podcast. If you enjoy this episode, you can subscribe here.

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-mycelium-network

--

In the first episode of season 2, I speak with Juan Pablo Flores, the program manager for GitHub Education. We talk about GitHub classroom and the problems it solves for students and teachers. Using GitHub skills to learn and teach how to use Git and GitHub. The importance of being able to work on a team and collaborate on a cross-functional team. Using Twitch as a platform for teaching, the role of community, and the importance of great documentation.

Juan Pablo on GitHub
Audience and Streamer Participation at Scale on Twitch
Twitch—a game changer for developers and educators - Universe 2022
GitHub Skills
GitHub Classroom
GitHub Campus experts
Working in public
Twitch plays Pokemon
Harvard computer science courses
Stormy Peters at GitHub Universe
MDN Web Docs
Write the docs
Rachel Nabors
GitHub campus advisors program

Recorder and produced by Mechanical Ink - https://mechanical.ink

Working in Public: The Making and Maintenance of Open Source Software

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, marine ecologist and co-founder of Openscapes, Julia Stewart Lowndes, joins the show to discuss a variety of topics. Lowndes explains the concept of open science and the role of the Mozilla Foundation played in forming Openscapes. She also touches on contributing to open science on GitHub, psychological safety, and inclusivity. Additionally, we discuss the climate crisis and explore solutions and ways to get involved in local climate action. We highlight a number of resources where you can learn more about the climate. The conversation also covers the impact of the climate crisis on youth and how they can engage in solutions.

After the episode, we had a conversation about trustworthy resources for climate activists and those interested in learning more. The result was the open climate repository on GitHub, to which we invite everyone to contribute.

Continue the conversation on Discord.

Links* Julia Stewart Lowndes on the web * Julia Stewart Lowndes on LinkedIn * Openscapes * Openscapes Champions program * Podcast episode with Tara Robertson * Open Source at GitHub with Abigail Cabunoc Mayes and Naytri Sramek * 25 years after returning to Yellowstone, wolves have helped stabilize the ecosystem * Mozilla Foundation * Combined climate- and prey-mediated range expansion of Humboldt squid * Mozilla Foundation Open Leaders * GitHub Accelerator * GitHub for supporting, reusing, contributing, and failing safely * Abigail Cabunoc Mayes * R Markdown * NASA Openscapes on GitHub * NMFS Openscapes on GitHub * National Oceanic and Administration (NOAA) on GitHub * Erin Robinson * All We Can Save * The Carbon Almanac

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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Molly Howell, a Frontend Engineer on Firefox, shares her passion for retro computing and gaming, thinking about the impact of your choices and her belief in the transformative power of treating people with the same respect and empathy you would afford yourself. We discuss what makes the Mozilla project unique and how to contribute. We cover toxicity in open-source and the value of well-written bug reports. The podcast closes on a beautiful note when Molly shares the inspiring experience she has had finding herself, finding joy, and loving herself with the support of the trans community.

Continue the conversation on Discord.

Links

Molly Howell on Polywork
Molly Howell on GitHub
Molly Howell on Gitlab
Mozilla Firefox
Les Orchard
Mozilla Careers
Mozilla Attack and Defence Blog
License to Build Together
What can I do for Mozilla?
Bugzilla (good first issue)
MDN Web Docs
Mozilla Connect
Linus Torvalds
Understanding toxicity in Open Source
Contributor Covenant
Code of Merit
Hackernews
Mike Hoye
History of the Mozilla community
EcmaBoy
Z80.js
Fixing a Security Bug by Changing a Function Signature
The Rust language

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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In our third installment of interesting finds, we cover overreach by South African educational institutions. Open Assistant, an open-source alternative to OpenAI and ChatGPT. We provide a different perspective on the core-js story and highlight a talk by Kris Nòva, who tells the story of Hachyderm. We close out the episode by talking about sustaining open-source and a new fund from the Open Technology fund.

Other news* Designing Tech for Social Cohesion - In person - Online * Google season of docs - For projects - For writers * Synthetic Humanity: AI & What’s At Stake * When Your Open Source Tool Turns to the Dark Side - Dotan Horovits (Dotan will be on a future episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast) * A new Mastodon web client, Elk, is in public preview. * CommonVoice

Read the show notes and subscribe to our newsletter on Substack.

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In today’s episode, three podcasters gather remotely around the mic to share thoughts on making open source sustainable. While we might not have all the answers, some great discussions happen organically around topics we care deeply about. Listen as we talk about giving back to open source, the problems with receiving money as a project or individual, open-source governance, starting in open-source, and some sobering thoughts from Richard. Want to join in the conversation, join us on Discord.

Isaac Levin Linktree
Richard Littauer on LinkedIn
Coffee and Open Source
SustainOSS
Sustain podcast
Sustainable Open Source Design
Protocol Labs
Open Collective
State of Open Conference
Blue Beanie Day
Aaron Swartz
The Mycelium Network
The Mycelium Network Podcast
Codeland Conference
.NET on GitHub
VSCodium
What is Google doing with its open-source teams?
Kubernetes
Chris DiBona on LinkedIn
Cat Allman on LinkedIn
The legal side of open-source
PresenceLight
Scott Hanselman

Recorded on Riverside and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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In this edition of interesting finds, we highlight an offering from Ubuntu that is now in general availability. We introduce the Open Sourcing Mental Health project and non-profit. We also cover examples of unethical AI, who has power over AI, protecting our rights to freedom of expression and opinion online, and ask what is happening at Google regarding their Open Source Program Office. We highlight an interview with Vicky Brasseur on DevTalk; Postman starting their OSPO, and the first release of Penpot.

Please read all of the details in our Substack newsletter.

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink.

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In this episode, I chat with Nikolay Bogoychev about machine learning and machine translation. Get ready to dive into the exciting world of AI as we discuss the challenges of building the Bergamot project, the importance of sustaining open-source projects, and the evolution of big language models like ChatGPT. We also touch on privacy, highlighting the benefits of using language translation tools that run locally in the browser. Nikolay shares his wealth of knowledge and gives you a glimpse into the future of this rapidly growing field.

Translate locally
Firefox translations
Project Bergamot
University of Edinburgh School of informatics
What is natural language processing?
Linux Foundation
What is machine translation?
Valve console
Windows Subsystem for Linux
Open Collective
GitHub Accelerator
What are Neural Networks?
ChatGPT
StackOverflow ban on ChatGPT
Exclusive: OpenAI Used Kenyan Workers on Less Than $2 Per Hour to Make ChatGPT Less Toxic.
The cost of running ChatGPT
GPT-4
Bing search results to be enhanced by OpenAI
Microsoft's investment in OpenAI
Google to release its own chatbot

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink. Join the conversation on Discord.

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In this first episode of interesting finds, our founder talks about the news surrounding a possible name change for the Apache foundation. The Umnotho community project that Mechanical Ink will be involved with. An innovative company from Lagos, Nigeria, that aims to bring electric mobility solutions to over 150,000 motorcycle taxi drivers. Highlights a talk from Clive Loseby about accessibility on the web. Highlights a new initiative to help the homeless in South Africa and exciting news about the Servo project.

Read the show notes and subscribe to our newsletter on Substack.

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In this episode, Schalk speaks with Steven Vaughan-Nichols about various topics. We start by discussing Rust support being added to the Linux kernel and its potential effect on Linux security and performance. We then move on to how open source is not a business model, but a software model, and how this has impacted decisions made by formerly open-source companies. The Fintech sector appears to be ready for disruption by open source, and Steven discusses a few initiatives that are driving this. We also discuss the Twitter debacle and the decisions made regarding open source at Twitter. We consider if Mastodon is posed to fill the space left by Twitter and what is essential for the Open Source ecosystem in the coming years.

In his own words

Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols has been writing about technology and the business of technology since CP/M-80 was the cutting-edge PC operating system, 300bps was a fast Internet connection, WordStar was the state-of-the-art word processor, and we liked it!

Continue the conversation on Discord.

Links of interest

Rust
MongoDB
Elastic
Redis
Open Search
Open Stack
Fintech Open Source foundation
Mastodon
The future of finance belongs to open-source.
Keep calm and learn Rust: We'll be seeing a lot more of the language in Linux very soon.
OpenStack cloud sees explosive growth.

Recorded and produced by Mechanical Ink with Riverside.

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In this episode of the Mechanical Ink podcast, Schalk is joined by Abby and Naytri from GitHub. In this enlightening and far-reaching conversation, we cover some of the new initiatives launched by GitHub, such as GitHub Accelerator and the GitHub Fund. We also cover enhancements to GitHub Sponsors, what GitHub learned from the OS Grants project in GitHub, and how companies and open-source can aid in creating opportunities for creators in developing countries.

We also touch on the social aspects of GitHub, how GitHub has managed to keep the platform largely healthy and welcoming and how we can do even better. We also discuss the importance of community and giving tools to community managers working on the platform. Abby also shares information about the maintainer's program at GitHub and other initiatives such as maintainer month. This is the episode for you if you are running an open-source project on GitHub.

Applications are open for the GitHub Accelerator! Apply by December 31 to join our first class of fellows in 2023.

If you want to learn more about the GitHub open-source maintainer program, please get in touch with Abby at GitHub.

Links

Abigail Cabunoc Mayes
Naytri Sramek
What is open science?
GitHub Sponsors
GitHub Accelerator
GitHub Fund
GitHub OS Grants
KarateLabs
Hoppscotch
Sindre Sorhus
Evan You - Vuejs
GitHub Maintainer Month
Paystack
Jaron Lanier
GitHub All In program
GitHub Education
CodeSee
Stormy Peters
Carlos Becker

Recorded and produced by https://mechanical.ink

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In this, our first episode, our founder Schalk Neethling speaks with Jennifer Riggins, a tech journalist who frequently writes about open source, diversity and inclusion, and community. During the conversation, they touched on various topics related to open source and the tech industry. Topics include community health, licensing, and what is an open-source company even. Why diversity is important to open source and tech in general, and several other important topics.

This podcast is recorded using Riverside and produced by Mechanical Ink. Join the conversation on Discord, and learn more about Mechanical Ink on our website.

Links

Jennifer Riggins on LinkedIn
The New Stack
WTF is wrong with open-source communities
Linux Foundation DEI Survey
Jennifer Riggins - Cloud Native Blog
Google Open Source
Zoom’s Virtual Background Feature Isn’t Built for Black Faces
Ethical Source
Ghost.org
Where is Stripe available?
Stripe Atlas
Beat Affinity Bias with Open Source Diversity and Inclusion
GitHub for mobile
How Many Africans Contribute to Open Source Software?
Mozilla
The state of Mozilla
CHAOSS community
Gender differences and bias in open source: Pull request acceptance of women versus men
Introducing Sign Language View for Teams Meetings
Microsoft adaptive hardware
UKGov A11y
Fear and Layoffs: How to Cope with Tech’s Uncertain Times

Mechanical Ink Podcast: Recent Episodes

Mechanical Ink