I have developed an approach to how I communicate with students learning programming. I try my hardest to include 4 elements in my videos, podcasts, and courses – Concepts, Creativity, Coding, and Coaching. I have found that while people might be seeking to learn a new computer language, what they really are looking for is a way to solve some sort of problem. The technology or code is only part of the solution. Here are some ideas I have about why each of the 4 areas are equally important.
Here is my YouTube covering this topic:
Concepts
- We need to expose our minds to new ideas and ways of thinking and doing
- Gives us the symbology and language needed to work new concepts into our plans and actions
- You can’t open doors (opportunities) if you can’t even see the doors
Creativity
- It is often non-linear; Invention can pull from unexpected directions
- Give yourself permission to PLAY and EXPLORE
- It has systematically drilled out of us in school / work
- We need to reprogram ourselves to get it back
Coding
- Computer languages and dev tools are how we express our programs, but the coding really starts inside us
- Most people think this is beyond their understanding – but that is usually becaise of poor teaching / teachers
- Embrace all languages, including no code / low code – soon we will be speaking or thinking our “coding”
Coaching
- Helping someone to see the inner-strengths they already have inside them
- To help with some practical strategies
- We all need someone to encourage us when things seem bleak or we seem weak
Below is the audio podcast of this post:

We are exploring what it means to be a creative solo-programmer / solo-founder, and how to harness the power of WordPress by developing our own custom plugins. Plugins can be stand-alone products, all the way to the core of a micro SaaS, WaaS, or even XaaS bootstrapped business. Along the way we will learn how to code in PHP, JavaScript, and leverage the cool functions and hooks and libraries that come with the WordPress framework. The potential for creating new experiences and value for users is limited only by our creativity. Hosted by Jamie Robe, solo-founder of PluggedIntoProgramming.com
I have seen a lot of changes in technology and computer languages. I found 4 elements that have helped me in my journey and evolution as a solo-programmer and solo-founder, now concentrating on micro-SaaS and other products using the WordPress framework. In this episode, I want to lay the groundwork for all my future shows and online courses. I will always incorporate as many of these 4 elements… concepts, creativity, code, and coaching into everything I make for you.

I hope you enjoyed this episode of Plugged Into Programming ( s1e1 ). I would love to get your comments and questions below. Thanks for participating – Jamie