The AI Episode

I didn't come to this decision lightly. It took me most of 2025 to reach this conclusion, but here we are. I'm done. Let me explain.

Let me tell you a story about the programming-induced anxiety that my former self once felt. If you are constantly online, you will have the impression that you are constantly falling behind. But...are you?

Should you learn PHP first or jump straight into Laravel? 🤔 It’s a question every newcomer asks, and in this episode, Jeffrey breaks down both sides of the debate. We’ll talk about the benefits of mastering PHP basics, the faster “time to first win” that Laravel offers, and how beginners can balance learning without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re just starting with HTML/CSS or ready to build your first CRUD app, this video will help you figure out the best path forward. 💻✨ Share your thoughts in the comments — what worked for you?

In the last year, the way we program has changed dramatically. Perhaps, more dramatically than at any other time in my career. We can thank AI for that. So that begs the question: how does Laracasts fit into this new environment?

In this episode, we dig into the subject of AI... and whether it's going to steal your job or not. Don't worry: no bait in this video. Just an honest conversation about where we are, and what it all might mean.

There was a time long ago, before the internet, when each of us had the ability to be a big fish in the small pond. At least in some small way, that's true. But not anymore. And I wonder... what does that do to our confidence levels?

We love tools: linters, type checkers, test runners, asset compilers, et al. Whilst these tools can help solve problems, they might also be a sledgehammer when all you really need is a screwdriver. Let me tell you a little anecdote about upgrading my personal site to Laravel 11, and why sometimes removing a tool is even better than adding one.

Tell me what you think of this. We all have certain stories about ourselves that we repeat, like mantras. "I am the type of person who is X, therefore..." But, for all the reps, I'm not sure these are doing us any good at all.

Luke, here! I recently got the chance to attend and speak at Laracon EU 2024, and it was fantastic. The venue was awesome, the talks were amazing, but what really makes the event special are the conversations you have with like-minded developers. Let me tell you about it.

It occurred to me recently that, if my job consisted exclusively of writing code 40 hours a week, I don't think I'd be a programmer today. I might go out of my mind. The secret, from my experience, is to find your fit. Figure out how to combine all of your skills into some unique concoction that gets you through the day with a smile on your face.