The Modern Software Developer

Podcast Guest Appearances
One thing I love to do is spread the word about wellbeing and mindset in the software development industry.
One of the best ways to do that is by being a guest on tech podcasts. Below are my 5 latest guest appearances. Check them out, and if you have a podcast and are looking for a guest, get in touch.

Developer Wellbeing in the Modern Tech Era | Podcast with Richard #15
Welcome to a captivating episode where π¬ In this episode, Richard uncovers the often unspoken realities of mental and emotional health struggles among developers. Our discussion highlights the intense pressures professionals face in the fast-paced tech realm, shedding light on critical issues such as burnout and the pervasive “imposter syndrome.”
ππ²π ππΆπ΄π΅πΉπΆπ΄π΅ππ:
π§ What is Developer Wellbeing?
π The cyclical pressures and mental health hurdles unique to the tech sphere.
π₯ Unpacking imposter syndrome and its specific impacts on developers.
πͺ Identifying practical, effective strategies to mitigate stress and enhance mental resilience.
π Exploring the empowering role of continuous learning within the tech industry.
π Discussing prospective changes in the tech culture concerning developer wellbeing.
This episode isn’t just a conversation; it’s a stepping stone towards changing the narrative around mental health within the tech industry. Whether you’re a developer feeling the weight of these challenges or a leader seeking to cultivate a healthier team dynamic, this discussion offers valuable takeaways for everyone.
ππ²π ππΆπ΄π΅πΉπΆπ΄π΅ππ:
π§ What is Developer Wellbeing?
π The cyclical pressures and mental health hurdles unique to the tech sphere.
π₯ Unpacking imposter syndrome and its specific impacts on developers.
πͺ Identifying practical, effective strategies to mitigate stress and enhance mental resilience.
π Exploring the empowering role of continuous learning within the tech industry.
π Discussing prospective changes in the tech culture concerning developer wellbeing.
This episode isn’t just a conversation; it’s a stepping stone towards changing the narrative around mental health within the tech industry. Whether you’re a developer feeling the weight of these challenges or a leader seeking to cultivate a healthier team dynamic, this discussion offers valuable takeaways for everyone.

Overcoming Burnout in Engineering & Tech | Strategies to Thrive in Your Career and Wellbeing
In this episode we delve into the world of engineering and software development, burnout, and mental wellbeing. In this interview, we’re joined by Richard Donovan, a former software developer turned mindset coach and personal trainer – and he specializes in guiding developers and engineering to achieve optimal mental health and success through mastering their mindset.
If you’re an engineer or software developer feeling the weight of burnout, this episode is a must-watch. Richard shares his insights from over 20 years in software development, including roles as a mid-level technician, lead manager, software architect, and now, a dedicated mindset coach.
Discover the unique journey Richard took, transitioning from code to coaching, and how he recognized the significance of mindset in his own career.
If you’re an engineer or software developer feeling the weight of burnout, this episode is a must-watch. Richard shares his insights from over 20 years in software development, including roles as a mid-level technician, lead manager, software architect, and now, a dedicated mindset coach.
Discover the unique journey Richard took, transitioning from code to coaching, and how he recognized the significance of mindset in his own career.

Beyond The Code #EP 09 – Developer to Tech Leader: Balancing Success & Wellbeing
In this episode of Beyond the Code Podcast, join Richard Donovan director at RD Coached who focuses on helping leaders and developers balance well-being and success.
Richard talks about the wisdom of managing the βNot knowing everythingβ mindset as a leader and effectively delegating tasks. He takes a deeper plunge into developer mental and physical well-being and the challenges associated with it.
With Beyond the Code podcasts, we dive into the dynamic world of software engineering leadership with seasoned industry experts and successful engineering leaders who have mastered inspiring, guiding, and motivating their teams. We cover everything from fostering a culture of collaboration to implementing agile methodologies and cultivating technical excellence.
Discover game-changing strategies and practical insights to enhance team productivity, streamline project management, and overcome common challenges engineering leaders face. Gain valuable tips on talent acquisition, retention, and nurturing a diverse, inclusive workforce that drives innovation.
Richard talks about the wisdom of managing the βNot knowing everythingβ mindset as a leader and effectively delegating tasks. He takes a deeper plunge into developer mental and physical well-being and the challenges associated with it.
With Beyond the Code podcasts, we dive into the dynamic world of software engineering leadership with seasoned industry experts and successful engineering leaders who have mastered inspiring, guiding, and motivating their teams. We cover everything from fostering a culture of collaboration to implementing agile methodologies and cultivating technical excellence.
Discover game-changing strategies and practical insights to enhance team productivity, streamline project management, and overcome common challenges engineering leaders face. Gain valuable tips on talent acquisition, retention, and nurturing a diverse, inclusive workforce that drives innovation.

The Junior Developer Link: Breaking the developer stereotype with Rich Donovan
This week The Junior Developer Podcast is joined by Richard Donovan.
Richard has 22 years of experience in the industry. He’s been a junior, senior, tech lead and a software architect.
He started from the very bottom and has worked his way up, he’s self made and has come on to show all juniors out there that hard work pays off!
He has found during his career that developers are often labelled with a negative stereotype and he’s with us to discuss how to break free from that stereotype!
Richard has 22 years of experience in the industry. He’s been a junior, senior, tech lead and a software architect.
He started from the very bottom and has worked his way up, he’s self made and has come on to show all juniors out there that hard work pays off!
He has found during his career that developers are often labelled with a negative stereotype and he’s with us to discuss how to break free from that stereotype!

Episode 18 with Richard Donovan
In this episode, Richard talks about how he’s following his passion as a mindset coach for software developers after a career of over 23 years in the software development industry.
We talked a bit about what he’s doing and why he’s doing it, as well as touching on subjects such as:
π Psychological safety
π The software developer stereotype
π Moving from developer to development leader…
We talked a bit about what he’s doing and why he’s doing it, as well as touching on subjects such as:
π Psychological safety
π The software developer stereotype
π Moving from developer to development leader…