He's helped THOUSANDS of people learn to code [Leon Noel of

On this week's episode of the podcast, freeCodeCamp Founder Quincy Larson interviews Leon Noel, founder of 100Devs and head of engineering at Resilient Coders.
Growing up, Leon had it drilled into him that he had to become a doctor, lawyer, or dentist. But his ambitions grew and he went on to have an exciting career in tech.
After a successful exit from a startup, Leon wanted to help folks who were struggling during the pandemic. He started 100Devs, a charity which has helped 10,000s of people learn to code.
We talk about:
- dropping out of Yale
- getting into the selective Tech Stars startup accelerator
- Getting involved with Resilient Coders, a charity that helps court-involved youth learn coding
- Starting 100Devs and building a Discord server with 60,000 people learning to code together
Quincy recorded this podcast live and hasn't edited it at all. We want to capture the feel of a real live conversation, with all the human quirks that entails.
Can you guess what song he's playing on my bass during the intro? It's his arrangement of the intro to a 1990s cartoon.
Be sure to follow The freeCodeCamp podcast in your favorite podcast app. And share this podcast with a friend. Let's inspire more folks to learn to code and build careers for themselves in tech.
Also, we want to thank the 8,427 kind people who support our charity each month, and who make this podcast possible. You can join them and support our mission at: www.freecodecamp.org/donate
Links we talk about during the interview:
The video that changed Leon's life on Spaced Repetition, by Ali Abdaal: • How to Study for Exams...
The official Anki app, which is free on web / desktop and doesn’t lock you into a subscription. Leon's advice: "Only create cards on one device, but review on any to save you from weird syncing issues." apps.ankiweb.net
Dr. Barbara Oakley’s Learn How to Learn course, which Leon calls "a masterpiece":
coursera.org/learn/learning-h...
The 100Devs website (new cohort starting in early May): 100devs.org/about
Trailer for X-men '97: • Marvel Animation's X-M...
Thelonious Monk [pianist Quincy mentions] "Straight No Chaser" documentary trailer: • Trailer | Thelonius Mo...
Leon on KZbin: leonnoel.com/youtube
Leon on Discord: leonnoel.com/discord
Leon's Twitch for his live streams: leonnoel.com/twitch
Leon's website: leonnoel.com/
🎉 Thanks to our Champion and Sponsor supporters:
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Learn to code for free and get a developer job: www.freecodecamp.org
Read hundreds of articles on programming: freecodecamp.org/news

[@floraetteh1516]

As a current student of 100Devs, given this opportunity to learn Full-Stack free from Nigeria, still growing everyday, I am so grateful to Leon. He is an angel in our midst.

[@KyawZayarTun-bt8fo]

Is it free¿

[@garland-key]

The cartoon is Uncanny X-Men. Just came to say that I was part of 100Devs cohort 2. I went from being unhoused and earning unlivable wages to making more than double per year than I've ever made in my entire life as a Full Stack Software Engineer. I am forever in his debt.

[@MrNH718]

He was talking about the new one. Xmen 97

[@tghhh19]

100Devs allowed me to make the transition from middle school math teacher to tech. I’ll be forever grateful to the Leon and the entire 100Devs community.

[@henrimiessan3881]

how to apply please

[@hennasingh04]

@@henrimiessan3881 the links are in the video description

[@jeanneolie7683]

I am following you too with the same path

[@tghhh19]

@@jeanneolie7683 You got this! A little every day - consistency is the thing that matters most. Don't burn out, think long term.

[@stefanintech]

I started with Cohort 2 on Day 0. I was stationed in South Korea during the pandemic, child #2 on the way, and was planning a way to exit the military in 2024. Throughout that time, Leon Noel and the 100Devs community 1000% helped give me the tools to land my remote job in tech! Thank you 100Devs 🎉

[@CodeWithCory]

Leon is a REAL one. I’m a volunteer mentor over at his day job, the Resilient Coders nonprofit, and I’m constantly impressed by how skilled the students are in such little time. Hoping to get more involved with his 100Devs community too.

[@jeanneolie7683]

Is resilient code free too? Can it be done remotely?

[@gammajamgamer23563]

Quincy Larson and Leon Noel!!!! Worlds colliding in the best way ever.

[@damipad4]

I'll never forget when I first heard Leon talk about his story and why he does what he does. I knew instantly that I stumbled on something truly special. Thank you Leon for all that you do and thank you to all of the 100devs community for always supporting each other. We go get.

[@MrHitogiri]

Where to begin? I gave both Computer Science and Computer Engineering a try in University, felt like I was spinning my wheels the entire time. Left and did a bootcamp that was a waste of time, then got caught in the Udemy trap of paying for misplaced confidence rather than actual skill. Finally found Leon and the 100Devs community- game changer. This man will teach you how to use every single tool you need, put those tools in a lil belt for you, wrap that belt around your waist, and hype you up the entire time. If you actually want to learn, if you actually want to grow, if you don't know where to start. Leon and the 100Devs community is 100% your best bet.

[@TyrWinterHD]

#100Devs allowed me to start a new career during the pandemic. I was a drop out from medicine in south america. And after finishing the bootcamp, and grinding the hunt, i was able to land a job at a fintech! Now, i am currently going through my 2nd year working as a Full stack developer, started as Front End. Leon, and 100Devs changed my life! I owe it to them! Glad to see them get a spotlight

[@johnz3624]

As someone who was previously incarcerated a job hunt was super scary especially hunting for a good paying job. Never did I think it would be possible to almost triple my salary post incarceration. But I did! Through 100Devs, managing frustration, being consistent and taking care of myself I am now working as a Software engineer at one of the largest tech companies in the world! Much love to Leon and the community!

[@Cheese11185]

His videos are the real deal, especially in the beginning. In my opinion its essential to keep up a good pace while going through it. I had gone through the second cohort live and it was really a good springboard to gaining the skills and tools I'd need to get into tech. I'm just a girl with a GED that was a housekeeper now working as a software engineer. It is possible but not easy. :)

[@chasep402]

Wow that's great 🎉

[@n64expansionpack]

hi emily. can i have a coffee chat to talk about how u got thru the 100devs cohort ?

[@jeanneolie7683]

Go to KZbin you will video about that I did that why I sign up and I am in my class 19. It is really so exciting

[@kindablindmom3125]

#100Devs, I'm in the course now, Leon is a saint! He built such an amazing community.

[@neverlegend5867]

I was in a boot camp and Leon was my instructor. Till this day I give him thanks for giving the skills and confidence in the tech industry. If anyone has a chance to view his twitch streams do it! Also people are super friendly and he has an amazing way to teach things to people! Love this video! Keep going Leon!!!!

[@Thenachobear101]

I was part of 100 DEVs the online bootcamp that Leon runs. It has helped changed my life. Coding is hard. Coding alone is harder. Having the community and support of everyone has enabled me to continue this.

[@shastawilliams2170]

I think it is so cool that Leon and Quincy are fans of each other since they are doing the same thing in slightly different ways. It's nice to see people cooperate and be nice to each other for a change. So many things in the US seem so negative sometimes. I love the positive energy these two put out into the world.

[@cryptoaddict6715]

These 2 people have changed my life more than I can say. Thanks for being amazing.

[@blars]

100Devs changed my life! I was able transition from a career as a musician to a software engineer. If you put in the work, the community and teaching from Leon and 100Devs is 100% worth it.

[@MatthiasJRichter]

I am not exaggerating when I say that Leon and the 100Devs community changed my life! I went from being a socially anxious mess to being a slightly less socially anxious someone. Let's goooooo! :)

[@rachellewandowski8649]

Let’s goooo friend!😊🎉

[@ellieoconnor9384]

Leon and 100Devs changed my life! Helped me transition from a high school teacher to a developer job. I’m honestly forever grateful and encouraging others to take the leap and learn.

[@syed3589]

i just started 100dev bootcamp im really excited to see where this will take me right now i dont even have a job and really need this to work

[@wetsand7379]

Leon is an amazing teacher and person. I'm currently working through his free software engineering program and it's the first time coding is "clicking" for me.

[@jacquelinemendez3962]

Yeahhhh Leon! Catch up crew!

[@amineennaciri1862]

Wanna become a software engineer? feel overwhelmed? you don't have money to pay expensive bootcamps or courses? Just join 100Devs, Leon is the best teacher you could ask for. He will show you the path to the promised land. Wait there's more... It's free!!!!

[@davidc2072]

I started with FCC 10 years ago, but with ADHD I needed more structure and accountability. Leon’s community has really made a difference for me, but I appreciate Quincy for even opening my eyes to the possibility of self learning how to code.

[@kristonburnstein]

100Devs is a lifechanging free program with unprecedented community support. I'm so proud and fortunate to be a part of it! I encourage anyone who is looking to learn how to code to look into 100Devs. Leon is an outstanding teacher and guides you every step of the way! And the whole program is on KZbin too!

[@TheyCallMeAnnie]

Leon and Quincy!! The collaboration between two amazing mentors that I never knew I needed! ❤

[@iProsenjit98]

Currently doing his Free Full stack web dev bootcamp..his teaching style is so unique and simple.. ❤️

[@ananthvishwanath7741]

Can you post the link of the course

[@bigDevBosco]

link to the course?

[@bigDevBosco]

link to the course?

[@bigDevBosco]

link to the course?

[@johnmurphy_04]

Where to find his course?

[@Lara-jg4of]

Leon and the 100devs community changed my life. Leon is a brilliant educator and has the biggest, kindest heart, he truly cares about helping folks from all walks of life be successful. When I joined 100devs I wasn't nearly where I needed to be in life, and through a year of hard work, learning, networking, and eventually job hunting, guided by Leon's lessons and advice, I was able to turn my life into something I can be truly proud of. If you're reading this and are unsure of whether or not to join us in this journey - take this as a sign and do it. ❤

[@Tailsxz]

Leon's course and his style of teaching rejuvenated the lost love I had for learning. I am forever grateful for everything he has done for his community.

[@adelnasr576]

Leon and 100Dev community is the greatest experience that I have in my life. I'm speechless to say how grateful I am for Leon and all what he is doing in 100Dev

[@teddynandutu9712]

For me Leon is a destiny helper... Thank you so much for walking the talk consistently. More grace to you and your Household. I rate myself as right on track with the learning and networking. Shalom-Shalom 🕊️

[@JenDevDesign]

Leon Noel is generous with his time, energy and knowledge to all. He truly walks the Education should be Free mantra. He is inclusive, patient and extremely kind in his execution of vision within 100Devs! Thank you Leon!! ❤

[@jonmpena05]

I did 100devs and it helped me so much. I'm now working in tech and doing what I love, coding. It's awesome

[@Xe054]

Without the help of Leon and the 100Devs community, I probably would have quit my goal of becoming a Software Engineer a long time ago. It's a VERY difficult journey, especially if you're doing it alone. There are so many invaluable skills that I've picked up at 100Devs about building software, networking, and making money as a freelance developer that friends and family frequently complement me on my growth. I suffered from extreme levels of social anxiety before joining the cohort. The community helped me realize that I needed professional help and gave me resources to navigate solutions. I've since pushed myself to regularly attend meetups, to the point where I've been called a social butterfly. 😅 🤷 I'm now landing interviews regularly, even in this tough job market, and I know it's only a matter of time before I get an offer. I'm so grateful that this amazing community exists! May it continue to succeed. I and many others will be there to help anyone else looking to build a rewarding career in tech. Thank you, Leon. ❤

[@JohnestOfPauls]

100Devs has been a HUGE life changer for me! I used to work in the construction industry and got burnt out pretty quickly from the constant deadlines and feeling like everyday was a whirlwind. 100Devs is a great way for people to transition their careers into software engineering that is completely FREE! A few months after quitting my job, I was hired to a startup company, and I've had such a healthy work-life balance ever since. Thank you Leon and thank you to all who make 100Devs possible!

[@GOLD_FEVER]

You are who i want to be! I struggle greatly with motivation and putting in the work, so it may take me multiple years, but fingers crossed i can some day comment this!

[@drereactions1240]

Leon is amazing! 100 devs is so welcoming, appreciate this community

[@daniellekendall7355]

#100Devs represent! Currently following the cohort 2 videos on KZbin, and it is hands down one of the best resources out there!

[@rachellewandowski8649]

Hi!!

[@nategr88]

100Devs helped me land a job in tech and taught me how to learn at a basic level. Big fan of Leon's mission, free education is the future!

[@VeganCaribun]

I just got a new certification yesterday (CompTIA ITF+) and I'm convinced that one of the first homework assignments with 100devs (the learning how to learn course) is what made me succeed! There were a few software engineering questions on there, too, which were the questions I was most confident on, thanks to Leon! Thank you so much Leon and #100devs! Of course I also love freecodecamp it's great seeing you 2 interact, you can see how you both really build off each other's vibes. Thanks for supporting those who can't afford education! Thank you so much for all you do! 🐇💗

[@chasep402]

Congrats🎉, are you going for a+ next?

[@VeganCaribun]

​@@chasep402 Absolutely! I feel like the ITF+ really prepped me for a good start towards A+ and I don't want to lose that momentum 😊 That said, I'll be making studying for the A+ more of a backburner focus for now while I get back into software (web and game) development.

[@chasep402]

Best of luck on your journey!

[@ElliottWatson]

100DEVS litterally jump started my career in programming! So thankful of LEON

[@TheAutumn90]

I watched the whole cohort 2 playlist from 100devs and I can say that I learned a lot more than just code, but solid career advice, skills that helped manage my frustration, and study habits for getting into a field that requires constant learning.

[@TheAutumn90]

also, the theme is from the old saturday morning x-men cartoon; the nostalgia

[@user-qi6on8fx5x]

Before committing to a paid boot camp give this one a chance, Leon is a great teacher and his energy is contagious. He teaches the skills needed to get a job.

[@chrisament9962]

100 devs is an unbelievable source and Leon is a saint for all of the selfless work that he does for us.

[@tamemister]

Leon is so inspirational

[@markfehrenbach6288]

Community taught! I went from 0 to job thanks to Leon and the folks at #100devs, actually changed my life.

[@rlwhttng]

Leon is great!! I would recommend 100Devs no matter where you are in your tech journey. I love it

[@kevinmilleryo]

100 devs changed my life

[@dominionworkzllc7574]

LIKE these two guys are like my go to for SE, I started with Quincy and man to have the same name as him is so rad, and to be apart of 100Devs for like 2yrs now and seeing Leon every week is rad. These guys are like brothers to me. LBoogie, and Q!! This was an automatic share and like no questions!!!

[@quincylarsonmusic]

Awesome. Thanks for the kind words and for telling your friends about the podcast.

[@NA-sq1pt]

100Devs is an amazing community! I hope more people discover the program and get hired to do what they love!

[@keepjukin07]

The best to ever do it!! This interview with my two faves was amazing 🎉

[@ncg89]

This is so cute! I love that these guys are like, “I wanna be like you.” “No I wanna be like you!” I was part of cohort 1 (came in late after doing a different bootcamp). I love the 100 Devs community and Leon. I love that he makes sure we treat each other well and support each other while also helping us to achieve financial security.

[@sachinsview270]

The guy name is palindrome 😮😅

[@timnardoni1885]

😮

[@bigDevBosco]

😂😂😂❤

[@g.badarivishal7353]

Good observation. Attentive. Good.

[@quincylarsonmusic]

Wow - I never noticed that.

[@shubhsharma19]

yes

[@KRAKENBACK..]

Leons built something great, something that keeps me inspired to keep going. Thanks Leon

[@jacobwilkinson1634]

#100Devs, is the greatest internet community that I've ever been a part of. I love freeCodeCamp podcast and can't believe this came through my feed! I am literally in tears thinking about what this type of exposure means for the future of the 100Devs. Leon, my friend, there is no one more deserving of this interview! We go get! ❤

[@cbbrandi806]

Leon has changed lives. Very grateful to him and the 100Devs community he fosters.

[@sumpinboutsunday]

100Devs helped me learn software engineering at my own pace as part of the catchup crew. I’m very thankful for Leon and the 100Devs community!

[@koltuz]

Como alguien que habla español, me encontre con 100Devs a través de reddit y una de mis metas era mejorar mi habilidad para escuchar en ingles y para ver como aprendian a programar los americanos, quede muy satisfecho, a Leon le entiendo casi todo lo que habla, su forma de explicar es divertida y las horas se pasan volando, es una muy bonita experiencia, pero lo mejor viene despues con sus reuniones por discord, lamentablemente debido a la diferencia horaria me perdi varias y no es como en twitch que quedan grabadas, aun asi, lo recomiendo, en especial por la comunidad que ha logrado construir en discord. Dejo este mensaje en español para que si algun hispanohablante lo lee sepa que con Leon va a aprender si se toman el tiempo y esfuerzo que requiere

[@allanrodrigues646]

Leon is a great human being and an amazing instructor! Truly inspiring

[@JakobStrasser]

I knew how to code but 100devs taught me how to get a job as a developer.

[@marshaeisenhower-yi3rd]

The one thing that this program has than any other is it’s all encompassing. You’ll prepare for the job market, have accountability partners, learn how to prioritize mental health, and of course learn how to how to code. It will truly change your life. I know it has mine. 😊

[@VeganCaribun]

I already commented, but this video is so inspiring I had to comment again LOL. Thank you both for all you do to empower those of us without the privilege of money and opportunity! 💗😊

[@JasonFator]

❤ Leon and 100Devs! My 17-year-old and I are working through the cohort 2 bootcamp right now with the catch up crew. I can’t recommend it highly enough.

[@carterpaul2688]

Thank you Leon. You helped me sir . God bless you

[@ajassharafudeen]

I thought the interview was old, until I checked. WOW.

[@user-oc2lp4go9q]

I just have say that #100Devs has given me another chance! Without getting into too much detail, it has been a wonderful blessing for me, in particular, but to my family as well. I am so grateful for the opportunity to become what I have wanted to for some time, but just got a little lost along the way. So, I have to say thanks a gazillion to Leon for his great big heart and generosity to make something that would have costed thousands of dollars - FREE! Many blessings to Leon and his family a gazillion-fold, because I don't think he REALLY has ANY idea as to the IMPACT he has made in all of our lives!!! ❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏👼👼👼

[@user-mh1gy3wt9o]

I love 100Devs + Leon Noel!!!

[@jd-kr8bo]

Some great tips from Leon on learning to code and finding a job. Also, how am i just now discovering the FreeCodeCamp podcast? It has been added to my rotation (fCC, WWDTM, Star Talk, Smartless, ...)

[@Suresh-iu2tx]

Is there going to be another 100devs cohort or should i start the last one?

[@jayalmond6708]

Start studying the materials from cohort 2; that will give you an excellent head start once the next cohort starts. As Leon says, "Don't delay, start today!"

[@offorjohn]

Really hyped Quincy up.

[@MsHat2009]

Amazing video, best collab ever 🎉

[@wayneinteressierts9973]

Thank you so much for this interview! I’m musician, became a developer in COVID. Such interviews making my way so much easier. I mean both of you, guys! Thanks again and again!

[@mawgraw4297]

The 90's X-Men cartoon was the best!

[@victorcontrerasvargas2087]

Leon is the goat🐐

[@alexliebhaber3109]

Two goats on the same screen. Thank you both for all you’ve done and continue to do.

[@jeanneolie7683]

Class 15, class 33 and class 34 are really game changing😊

[@Jacob-vj4ns]

The best collab

[@shubhsharma19]

OG Leon

[@galitdances5195]

100devs is the best! Leon, ALSO the best! I went from dancer to working as a software engineer in 1 year!!

[@progmell]

That’s my teacher 🤗💯

[@dgtl.air8]

#100devs is legit a great community and an amazing place to learn this craft. Leon is a hell of a person and a teacher, the best ive ever had

[@user_____M]

Yep, checks out.

[@JoakimEnvall]

X-Men intro. 😊

[@quincylarsonmusic]

You've got it.

[@Gnajs]

I see Leon, I like.

[@davidalex684]

Bro this jam, is SICK. Nice rthym . Noted I also love programming. It's greatest experience yet.

[@quincylarsonmusic]

Thanks, man.

[@davidalex684]

@@quincylarsonmusic please let jam the flow all the time

[@davidalex684]

@@quincylarsonmusic by the way im a teen

[@jurnee21485]

PHILLY!!!

[@vystopian8492]

Anyone know when cohort 3 will start?

[@jayalmond6708]

No start date has been announced. Do yourself a favor and start studying the materials from cohort 2; you'll be in good shape once cohort 3 starts!

[@EduardoSanchezDev]

Found this so insightful ! #100Devs Community thought !

[@DMtech895]

I went from 0 to Freelancing developer thanks to what I learned during this course. The knowledge that I have gained while learning has changed the course of my life and have created new opportunities for my family. For anyone who has the opportunity, I would strongly encourage you to join the community

[@kevink7529]

O my god it's Leon! Hello from #100devs

[@AngelCodes95]

I am currently going through 100devs in the catchup crew! wonderful community to keep eachother accountable and never put eachother down. Leon is a 11/10 teacher!

[@davidalex684]

This guy is something else. Smooth jazz, reminds me of when two people are on a date.

[@techissexy]

I love Leon Noel, 100Devs opened the door for me in so many ways. Although, I am not a software engineer, my path ended differently, I’m now in cybersecurity

[@muosubatv3205]

Would you mind mentoring me in cybersecurity intro

[@dxk246]

LEON!!!! Your 100Dev family are here to support you!!!! Represent!!!!! Wohooooo

[@BrianGondo]

His coding teacher's name is Mr Shipper! Appropriate🤣

[@elehdivine4519]

Please I would love to know the brand of headsets you guys have on, you went almost two hours without being connected to a charger Mine only last for 100 mins at most

[@rpz.]

Before finding Leon, I had tried numerous other methods of self-taught practices like boot camps and such. Not a single one could compare to how well I connected with the method of teaching Leon uses. Between that and the community they've built, not only did I learn how to code but I've also learnt a lot of life-long lessons and techniques to utilize in my future. #CommunityTaught has been the difference, there are lots of folks that are willing to help and/or learn along with you! Thank you for changing my life, Leon.

[@Spectrumix]

X-MEN!!! 🔥

[@alexanderbrewster3595]

100devs w, i wouldn't have gotten into web development if it wasn't for leon

[@andreamuro8074]

I had 1 great teacher. Mrs Roberts who taught speech and music in elementary school. I always wanted to tell stories, sing and act and none of my prior teachers allowed me to participate, but she came along and made my kid dreams come true. I finally was allowed to perform in the school play and she picked me to sing in a city choir. She even picked me up and took me to the recital that was across town when my mother wouldn't. I wasn't great at any of these things but she recognized my joy and passion and supported it. I have not had but 3 people in my life that has done this.

[@ohbb9056]

Is that the x men theme?

[@adrianmorales2732]

#100devs