My Unconventional Coding Story | Self-Taught

In this video, I'll share my coding story, and how I learned to code and successfully changed careers to software engineering.
When I was first learning to code, I really found these "testimonies" very helpful. The struggles, tips, and just hearing others succeed at learning to code served as a huge encouragement to me.
I'll discuss what I did before coding, my first exposure to code, learning to code, and the various jobs that followed. We'll discuss what I learned in each step, my successes, and failures, and how you may be able to apply the same tactics to help you in your journey.
Tune in!
Join the coding community: travis.media/community
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
01:29 Before learning to code
03:20 10 Years Wasted
04:47 First exposure to coding
07:01 Learning to code
09:46 Upwork side jobs
11:03 Dropping out of bootcamp
11:20 Going full-time freelancing
15:28 From freelance to software engineer
20:19 Transitioning to Site Reliability Engineering
24:42 Transitioning to Developer Relations
26:25 Outro
** Career Path Coding Tracks **
Web Developer - geni.us/jBigBd
Software Engineer - geni.us/AbMxjrX
Machine Learning - geni.us/GporLlT
Python Developer - geni.us/tv2FJBU
DevOps Engineer - geni.us/MgHtJ
** My Coding Blueprints **
Learn to Code Web Developer Blueprint - geni.us/HoswN2
AWS/Python Blueprint - geni.us/yGlFaRe
** I write regularly **
travis.media
** FREE EBOOKS **
📘 travis.media/ebooks
LET'S CONNECT!
📰 LinkedIn ➔ / travisdot. .
🐦 Twitter ➔ / travisdotmedia​
🙋🏼‍♂️ Website ➔ travis.media
#selftaughtdeveloper #coding #careerchange #learntocode
** Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links that I may get a little cut of. Thank you.

[@TravisMedia]

Thanks for all the comments! I do appreciate you all. I'm thankful for this story. Remember, you have a story as well, and it's still being written. What's it going to look like?

[@jj691]

Awesome story Travis. Similarly I worked construction my adult life, made great money but never felt fulfilled. Transitioned to cyber security and just completed my first year as a security engineer at 35. No degree, no experience, one certificate, and the company believing in my drive and motivation. I was told it would be impossible, I needed a degree, X amount of certificates etc etc. it’s never to late to change careers!!🎉

[@wojciechsobiesiak]

I didn't have such luck. No single word how to do anything in coding area. As in matix 3 , 'yet here we are' xD

[@bicdeez007]

Hey Travis, excellent video. Quick questions, what bootcamp did you go to and would you recommend someone looking to become a front end developer go the bootcamp route, college professional development course, try the Odin Project or use a paid online resource like Zero to Mastery? Theres so many options that it can be difficult to choose one. Thanks, and please keep up the excellent content.

[@bicdeez007]

​@jj691 that's pretty impressive. I feel the same way with my current job and am thinking of a career change. If you don't mind my asking what cert did you get to help you change careers into Cyber security? From what I've heard it sounds like it's next to impossible to get into Cyber security if you're not already in IT for a number of years. The fact that you did it gives me hope of getting into IT even at my age of 43

[@outlawpl]

Thanks Travis, I really needed that. I'm 41 and learning to code for about a year now. I've already got HTML and CSS covered along with JS and some Node/Express, react is my next target. I'm struggling to find time to learn as I work 3 shifts, take care of my house and my kids. You just gave me some extra energy and motivation to keep going. Thanks a lot!

[@jonathanvandenberg3571]

At 37 I started learning coding like we all are here, on KZbin and some courses. After 1.5 years I got a job at a software company making web3 applications for clients, as well as in-house projects, as a Fullstack Dev. Previously an English teacher in Asia. I learned JS, CSS, HTML, Typescript, React, NextJS, Prisma, GraphQL, Redux, MongoDB, Solidity, Hardhat, TheGraph, Tailwind, FramerMotion and countless other libraries like Axios, Express, Git etc etc... I stopped going to restaurants, bars, and almost no socializing in general. I worked as little as possible, just to earn enough for rent and food, so I could fill every hour with learning coding. It was a lot, more than 8 hours per day. I stopped playing guitar for the first time in 21 years (University Qualified and active Jazz Guitarist by night). I basically stopped my life to forcefully redirect it in this direction. I got the job through a recommendation from a friend. But wait, you're saying "Ahh a recommendation...". Well you'll never get a recommendation from anyone if you're not competent. People put their name on the line to recommend someone. Even I wouldn't recommend a friend who is not fully competent. the 'fully competent' is the tricky part. That's what this post is about. In the job, I was thrown into a different stack, with very complicated code and a different way of working. In multiple repos. What I have learned for irl is that the faster you can learn something new, the better. For example, one of last week's tasks included: 'Write the documentation for the APIs using sequence diagrams, descriptions, and swagger (OpenAPI) integration. Host on GitHub pages'. All of which I knew nothing about, but I just read the docs of OpenAPI, docs for Github Pages, looked at random API sequence diagrams from google as reference and voila! So that kind of boost learning is an essential skill to have. I should mention it's a 2yr old startup, about 12 people in the company, everyone is Fullstack but everyone has their unique specialities. You can do it. But it's not easy, it's frustrating, you'll wanna quit. You have to keep doing it as much as possible. An hour a day is not enough. Get serious, knock it out! Just remember that you'll only have to do it once. WHEN you get your foot in the door. You're in. I'm now 39, a programmer by day and jazz guitarist by night. GOODLUCK!!!

[@TravisMedia]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ajwrecker12]

Legend

[@outdoorcat5107]

Wow I really needed this! I'm 33, started playing around with code at 16 but I kept quitting. Thought I was incompetent, so I picked business in college instead of CS. I keep trying then I quit, mostly out of frustration, not lack of intelligence. I've been working as a financial and investment analyst, but software has always been my true passion. Got married, three kids. Fell off from coding again. Started over a few weeks ago. I've been trying to trick my brain to convince myself that this is do or die for me. I was miserable as an analyst. I had even launched my own investment advisory business. Reached 12 employees at peak but decided to leave the business after 4 years. Couldn't imagine doing it for the rest of my life. Just completed Bootstrap tutorial, moving to JS now. I hope I can finally accomplish my career shift to full stack.

[@jonathanvandenberg3571]

That 'do or die' mentality is what got me through. It's more real for me as a South African with a really weak passport though, so it'll be harder for you (presuming you're EU or US). Keep the 'do or die' in the front of your mind then the hours will accumulate and you'll get there, guaranteed. Stay a bit social, make it known what you're doing, chances will arise, for one of them, you'll be ready.@@outdoorcat5107

[@rajshreesivananthan3684]

damn!

[@jaked5947]

No marketing gimmicks, just down to Earth, sincere content. We appreciate it, Travis!

[@arthurviktory3499]

Hey speak for your-self! 😂😂😂

[@TheImpressionist235]

Yes. Thank you.

[@noelzkie6497]

I worked for 15 years in a call center, but when i turned 35 i was able to get a software engineer associate position. I am now in a mid level position and hopefully get the senior position by june this year. It is never too late to learn.

[@MostImportantWordsSpoken]

I only hope I'll be able to pull that off. I did just about the same thing and I'm 38 now.

[@princebritwum9781]

Hello Noelzkie, I want to transition into software engineering and its seems so hard, would you be so kind to help me on this journey. Thanks in advance..

[@wojciechsobiesiak]

@@princebritwum9781 get Borland C++ 6.0 Builder, run it on virtual machine (xp) - read ALL the help that is included. And when I write "all" i mean ALL xD

[@kenxinhxc1635]

san ka nag apply pre pasok mo ko dyab

[@wallacewong413]

me too 8 years in call center and wanna be a software developer when I turn to 35 ^^Y

[@sugaslate14]

36 yr old welder here and have been learning programming myself since I think November of last year. Was jumping around between front end (html,css,js) and doing some back end stuff(python) doing ai automation projects. Very small. But recently I’ve concluded I want to be a front end dev. Have been feeling like I’m always playing catch up. And I needed to hear this. It’s never too late! I work 4 10s, 4am to 230 and I try to do the exact same thing man. Get home, shit shower and shave, eat and then code. I did take about 3 weeks off because I think I was burning myself out jumping from front end and back end. But man… I can’t thank you enough for just being. You. I needed this as a refresher.

[@williamkyeibaffour6021]

Wow. I'm also a welder who trying to switch to data analytics. Good know there's an awesome guy l can learn from 🎉

[@GMLCoder]

Im 36 also. I was a truck driver and now Ive been trying to change my whole profession into writing code like i did in middle/high school. it seems to take a lot of time and energy out of me to make this career change. good luck out there!

[@takethedamnphoto]

Welder here too on the same 4 10s schedule. Needed to read exactly this. Lets get it!

[@sugaslate14]

@@takethedamnphoto I ended up getting into my local community college for an AAS and finished my first quarter in the spring. It’s been awesome, we have the summer off and in that time I’ve been learning Ruby on Rails (for job opp at a local company) and building myself a website(I’m getting into gourmet mushrooms.) keep at it brotha. Find a subject your passionate about and just try building a webpage for it. Don’t get stuck in tutorial hell. Copying code for me hasn’t worked lol. Not that you asked for my advice but I thought I’d share.

[@GMLCoder]

@@sugaslate14 yeah i experienced tutorial hell as a kid when i coded games(prototypes lol) back then. I have to force myself to code on my own, or I really dont learn it well. Good luck broskie

[@mazivictorokezie1954]

Wow! Am lying on my bed watching this video. Honestly, you inspired me. My wife is also beside me watching. Last week you encouraged me through one of your video to buy Dr Dr Angela Yu's course on Udemy, which I did. Am fifty years old and am making a career switch to tech. It is a huge challenge but thank God I came across someone like you online. I don't know what to say but you did put some springs on my steps this evening. All you made me realize is that if you can do it, I can also. You are really an encouragement for me. I learn alot from your videos. Your story inspired me. By the way thank you for you recommending Dr Angela's course. Love ya. All the way from Nigeria with love

[@Native_love]

Good luck! You will succeed!

[@traezeeofor]

Welldone one Chief. You just need to stay consistent. Cut off all distractions, and scale down a bit so you can manage your finances while elarning. Good luck. I'm on teh same path, though a decade younger

[@winngriff]

Congratulations keep working hard

[@moji234]

Hello @Mazi. I'm actually in the same shoes. I'm 50 yrs old, just transitioned into tech and the journey has been great so far. I found Dr Angela while researching on python coding, bought her course and I'm on day 7 for almost like a month; ...it's that intense. ....I've made good progress. I will actually like to connect with you if you don't mind. Thanks for your comment as it's a motivation that I'm not the only 50yr old on this call..... Lol. Thanks also Travis for this beautiful content.

[@trawsoza2926]

Get at it brother 🤙🏽

[@isingcauseimliving]

I am 40 ! Was into bad jobs. But kept working on learning online. Learnt AI ML from Coursera. Was doing UX on the side. Things fell into place and was able to impress the interviewers with my DS / ML knowledge while interviewing for a UX role. Now, I am the UX Manager for Data Viz at a great company. Now, my goal is to also become a ML Engineer.

[@josea.torres1944]

Thank you so much, Travis! I’m 69 years old and getting back into coding, after a 20 yrs away from programming. Wow, everything has change but, I’m giving it a go! 😊

[@jacarey5]

38 year old just trying to get into web development and found this helpful and encouraging. Thank you.

[@DK-ez4jt]

Any update on learning brother ?

[@sparky_winston]

Trying to switch career at 38 here. Your story is so encouraging and inspiring.

[@atharvsingh6901]

A bright future ✨ is ahead for you. Just reach it

[@jessicadiaz7]

Me too soon to be 39! We can do it !! 💪🏽

[@atharvsingh6901]

@@jessicadiaz7 yes you can and you will. Believe that. Never under estimate yourself. It's all about the efforts we put in to reach our goal. Best 👍 wishes 👍Jessica. AGE IS JUST A NUMBER go ahead🙂. My best wishes are with you. All set to become WONDOR WOMAN IN CODING. GIVE ME A HELL YEAH

[@RD-gm9wz]

Same here and turning 39 this year. I work as a eBay lister and it’s got me more interested in Web Development/Design. I started a home course in that and when I started doing HTML and I liked it and it became addictive and when I do the listings I do some of the HTML and change it round a little bit. Also I sell stuff myself on eBay and even with learning development and design I’d like to build my own site for my hobby business and see how it goes from there

[@atharvsingh6901]

@@RD-gm9wz you are going to make it big. Mark my words. There's a will, there's a way

[@CloudlessStudio]

I did a web boot camp but what got me a job was my game development experience. When you said things fall into place at some point, it’s so true

[@GeneraluStelaru]

Making a game proves that you can understand and handle a complex system. It's also more fun than working on a fullstack portfolio item.

[@dakoderii4221]

@@GeneraluStelaru The way they make sound effects for movies and games is utterly disgusting. Where's PETA when they are actually needed? For instance, the TIE Fighter sounds in Star Wars was made by torturing an elephant then playing the screaming sound in reverse. What kind of monster thinks this crap up? Is there really no other way? Come on now.

[@GeneraluStelaru]

@@dakoderii4221 What the heck are you on about?

[@dakoderii4221]

@@GeneraluStelaru Games and movies are cool but some of the methods that have been used to create the sound effects are most certainly not. Look up how some of those sound effects were created.

[@GeneraluStelaru]

@@dakoderii4221 Still I don't get what this has to do with the topic at hand. Are you just trying to raise awareness about a fringe subject in any way you can?

[@trentdavis1768]

I needed this video. Very inspiring and motivational. I'm 26 and i thought it's too late. Thank you!

[@daneesia]

I feel you! I'm turning 25 soon and I'm overcoming Imposter Syndrome and feelings of hopelessness evvvvery single day 😭 But you know what? I really, really like coding and I want to do it professionally (starting with Web Development, hoping to develop mobile apps as well in the future). It's frustrating when I can't solve a problem or my solution ends up not being creative or "pretty" (even though it works), but at the end of the day... if I sit and dwell on those feelings instead of acknowledging them and moving forward, I won't ever grow. Nowadays I can see where my problem-solving skills have improved - because I've been encouraging myself to stop and plan my website / web app designs ON PAPER before I even touch my keyboard. Apart from that, I see where it's important to take a break from learning new things from time to time; this way, you can focus on little projects that will help you internalise what you already learned. These practices are helping me to feel less overwhelmed, more productive and definitely more confident ☺️✨ All the best with your journey! You've got this!

[@quickfactsanimals]

Lol, everyone is same. You could say I'm x years old and thought it was too late. And that x could be any age from 7 to 80. I saw this comment so many times, and I also made it myself. It's just not true. 😂

[@biffbyfford6890]

I know what you mean, I'm 11 yrs old and thought I had missed the boat when it came to coding, but this guy really inspired ne!

[@alamoba7710]

As a man who's looked up by his children, your story got me into tears. You're a great man Travis and a great inspiration too. I'm already 34 years old, same as you are then and I've just gotten into programming now. I wanted to support my family the best that I can and that I'm going to go all in on this. There's no plan b for me. Thank you for the inspiration

[@atharvsingh6901]

You are going to succeed ✨ in programming. I believe in you, God believes in you. You are going to get via. See you at Google one day👍😉😉😉😉

[@WormAteWords]

Good luck.

[@flipooh]

Good luck and I hope you are doing well buddy

[@anirban12d]

It's 3 am I watched your entire video. I'm going down the same path, trying to make the code work, struggling and trying again. I'm leaving this comment just to say I'm really happy that you tried and made it. I hope someday I'll be able to feel the same happiness for myself. Happy coding 😊

[@travis.miller]

As someone who is 32 and just starting to learn to code, this is really assuring. Thank you!

[@IyeshaB]

I’m 34 just starting. It’s tough, scary and lonely. I know it will be worth it.

[@frrizzle840]

Same here..32 and about to take a course to begin to learn

[@kennydlite]

32 here as well!

[@asheru9254]

I'm 31 here, I made 'hello world' on python and I haven't touched it since august last year. This month I want to be serious and get to work 😁

[@neethumohandas]

Same here .36 starting to code

[@steveyuhas9278]

I was a chef for years, fell into something that was comfortable but ultimately unfulfilling for me. Got sober 8 years ago, stayed in my comfort zone and refused to admit to myself I could do anything else... or was capable of doing anything else. I convinced myself there was not enough time now. I'm 38 years old now. In 2021, I decided that enough is enough. I have always loved coding, computers, networking and everything that has anything to do with the field. One night, I realized in the span of 5 min when I really was being honest with myself that I really had no reason... Why can't I do it? Why am I telling myself it's too late, or that I'll be "happy enough"? Fuck that. I immediately got online, enrolled in courses, started looking at certificates and just absorbed every single thing I could for 2 years. And fell in love again. And I'm happy right now, even if I'm ever unemployed and poor... I know I'm doing what I really want to do. Wednesday I start my new job as a DevOps SRE. One of, if not the main thing, that got me the job was that I had created a website. Mostly because I loved doing it. I created network cloud architectures and automation pipelines, a user login app via aws database and python. And I enjoyed every second of it. But what really got me the job, is I looked at the technology stack they were using, created a project using tools they use every day, and brought it to the interview after posting it to my website. And I nailed the interview. I had everyone asking questions and helping me think of ways to improve the automation pipeline. It was one of the best feelings I've ever had in my life to be recognized for my passion. I am so happy to be doing something I can say out loud that I am proud of. Whether this works out or the next job is what I want to do or neither....I can say I tried and that is enough for me. Don't ever tell yourself it's too late. And don't make the mistake I made of waiting for things to feel better. Make it better. Good luck to all of you out there chasing your dreams, we will all get there if we don't give up on them. So excited to see you fell into SRE like I am about to. Gives me hope that I'll enjoy it and excel like you did. I love everything about this video, thank you so so much for this.

[@claycamp1458]

LEGEND!!!!

[@TravisMedia]

LEGEND Indeed!! Thanks for sharing this!

[@thebaxsquad7445]

Travis is a kind of guy that will tell to his future grandkids about how he live a life trying to earn more money for his growing family and love what the journey offered to him. his Tech journey is amazing. It's a never ending journey of learning.

[@traezeeofor]

Loved listening to this too. I'll be 40 this year, been self-studying for months now. Should be competent enough for a front-end internship next month. Very refreshing listening to your story. Been long i listened to a good one. I'm further inspired. Thanks Sir

[@traezeeofor]

@@JegErN0rsk Not going badly at all. Steady progress

[@traezeeofor]

@@JegErN0rsk True. But I'm playing the long game. Will stick it out. Looking to contribute to open source, and take up side related-gigs whiel never stopping upskilling and applying.

[@traezeeofor]

​@@JegErN0rsk It doesn't bother me at all. In the words of the Great Uncle Stef (Stefan Mischook): "A carpenter will see a Power Saw as just a tool to speed up the process. Somebody who doesn't know anything about carpentary will see the Power Saw as a replacement for Carpenters". Same thing with ChatGPT.

[@miss_pearl]

Educating is your path, because you sure can capture one's attention consistently. I can definitely watch a 3 hour lecture from you and absorb every content, you have a skill.

[@tramelsjourney1177]

Agreed, watched this video all the way through and even took notes of his tips

[@yantra5441]

This is so inspiring! I’m 47. I became a truck driver to pay for certification tests like Security+ and CCNA. Like you, I’m really motivated and excited about tech. And this is exactly the kind of lightening strike of inspiration I needed. Thank you so much!

[@atharvsingh6901]

Age is just a number dude. You can achieve anything in life with honest efforts and willpower, dedication and respect

[@GeorgeBamfo]

Keep going

[@777Omwana]

Networking is also a good path. Go for it.

[@mushroomthump]

Amazing story! I’m 35 and just started learning to code at the end of last year. definitely inspiring

[@mattn_kk]

keep going man!

[@burnknuckles5906]

Ah finally someone who I can look up to, who came over the same situation I'm stuck in. I don't believe in motivation but I won't be lying, you really gave me a huge kick in my career changing journey.

[@TravisMedia]

🦵

[@IyeshaB]

I agree 100%

[@moji234]

Thanks Travis for this beautiful content and sharing your story. I am 50 yrs old, just transitioned to Tech and I'm on my journey.... It's something I love. I enrolled in a bootcamp as a Starter and had some tech courses but I'm on the self taught route now. I hope to find my way faster and make the journey much easier..... Thanks again.

[@haibaidzokwomandre1468]

Thank you, Mr. Travis, for the motivation. I started my journey to become a web developer just 3 months ago, and I have made progress compared to where I was 3 months ago. I live in a country where access to education is somewhat of a privilege, and even having internet access requires significant means. While I am limited in resources to attend a bootcamp, I have turned to KZbin videos (even though I have limited internet access with a daily 30MB data plan), websites like TheOdinProject and FreeCodeCamp, as well as PDF books. I can say that I am doing well, and I am determined to see it through. I also take this opportunity to encourage those who are doing their best to become developers to continue on this path. I would have loved to enroll in a training school, but it all starts with accepting my situation and looking in the right direction, striving to become a better person tomorrow. The day that God blesses me with employment and enough means, I will never forget to establish a bootcamp in my village for free training. Once again, thank you, Mr. Travis. You are a role model to follow.

[@saullucio5180]

I’m 34 and I’ve always done warehouse labor and recently found my calling. I feel I’m interested in coding but I’m also interested in digital design. I’m hoping to learn both and then find a way to mix the two. Your story is very relatable and I feel like you’re my future self lol 😅

[@mbchudno]

Stick to 1 of them and make it work. Spreading between 2 different fields will just make you earn less.

[@roymiller1464]

Nice! I’m learning python and blender 3D and Adobe After Effects.. you can start with Figma, Vectary and photoshop for design and html, CSS, JavaScript to combine your design and code (full stack dev) 🤘🏾💯

[@droopybeagle]

You could combine the two doing front end coding with web design. The creative process is very rewarding

[@charlesjohnson5979]

This is crazy because a few years ago i got a PC and i love gaming. And i started to learn how to mod my games and thats what got me into wanting to learn to code. I know its not very similar but seeing me alter a game they way i want was really fulfilling to me so seeing code come to life has been the motivation for me to start at age 27. Currently trying to self teach while also going to school to get my degree. Your video really inspired me! Because i had a similar story. Been in construction for 10 years now. And was in the army

[@bhainsley]

Thank you for sharing your story, Travis. Very inspirational and encouraging, and your humility and generosity will continue to open doors for you. Good stuff.

[@BM-_]

What a great video! Thank you for sharing your story. I really found this motivating for my current situation as a CS student. I wish you nothing but the best in your career! Keep it up, Travis!!

[@GBlunted]

Oh man, love this content! I can relate so much and find it inspirational as it compares to the current state of my journey! 👍🏽

[@som_girl6702]

Cheers to all supportive spouses!!! Thank you for sharing your story, Travis and I applaud your courage and tenacity in pursuing your dreams, it sure paid off! Thanks for great contents too

[@Gbolagunte]

Thank you for sharing your experiences Travis. I really REALLY love your openness and honesty. Great to see it’s all about the journey and having fun as you go along.

[@111t03]

Thanks for this Travis ! You definitely have knack of explaining things. I am at a point in my life where I now want to make this move to s/w engineering and you have certainly inspired me 🙏

[@BUSTABROWNohi]

I appreciate this video so much Travis! I've been in the IT industry (helpdesk mostly) for probably 10+ years, and have found myself just getting by without much effort just auto-piloting , feeling bored, unfilled and generally just like i've been stuck in life. But recently I took a more serious look at my life and I know I can do better for myself. That's why for the last 2 months i've been grinding python, powershell and now AWS courses to better my situation and actually challenge myself. I've been automating away all the tedious tasks for myself and my team at work and have had a blast doing so - the motivation to learn has never been higher for me. Watching your story with a similar age range has really lit a fire under me and more importantly given me some hope that this path is possible with hard work. Appreciate your content!

[@tschmiedeke9291]

Really well done, Travis. Appreciate your authenticity and communication style. You are a smart man, thank you for sharing!

[@LoretoEsTorres]

26:22 I stuck till the end of the video. Very inspiring. At 67, I have no intention of retiring but looking forward to reinventing myself to a new career. What I get from your video is: Never stop learning. The best starting point to greater growth is “I don’t know”. This mindset opens one up to infinite possibilities.

[@workhardmillionsonwelfared1329]

Truly inspirational! Thanks for sharing, Travis!

[@As74ful]

Thank you Travis. It encourages me much as I just started learning programming at age 30 and at the time I thought I was the oldest rookie soft engineer in the world until now I see this video. Your journey really inspires me a lot. Thanks again.

[@elyazamiaziz4725]

Travis, you caught me in the same situation and age you were in when you decided to start coding. Thank you for the beautiful video, very inspiring 😊

[@musicforall4407]

What a journey! Thank you so much for your video. It's encouraging and strengthening.

[@AlancRodriguez]

Hi Travis, thanks for sharing. I really admire your initiation. I also really like how your path was incremental and clearly outline milestones in your self-taught journey.

[@SeunOwamokele]

Awesome story there @Tavis. It's truly an encouragement to me. I'm fired up right now. What a way to end the year and begin on a new slate for new year.

[@AlessandraLopes1]

Hey Travis! I must tell you at first I got stunned by your silky voice, and when you talked about your radio background, you completely got me! I spent 10 years hosting a show in a radio in São Paulo, Brazil, but the story is just the same: if you're not famous... Long story short, I'm learning to code, started with html, css, all that stuff. Now I'm fumbling towards python, it isn't that hard, but you gotta be focused and disciplined! I want to thank you so much for telling us your story! It's so inspiring, I really loved the way you went head on learning all the new stuff on the flight! Thank you! All the best from your new subscriber!

[@odarteilamptey9376]

Bro. Thank you soooo much for sharing your story. Any time I feel like giving up i come back to watch your video and I get right back on track. I thank God for your life

[@kevingarman113]

Thank you for sharing your story! I was very inspired by what you shared. It was helpful to hear your successes, failures, and everything in between! I’m learning Python at the moment and just trying to learn everything I possibly can. Your story helped me keep things in perspective!

[@alanhf]

Travis, that's was on of the most satisfying tech videos that I saw. I have some issues with staying focused, but not this time. I've been struggling to get in the market, lots of stuff going on and this video hit me just right. Wish you the best, brother.

[@cringeworthyx]

Awesome , Travis! Loved hearing your story. I am 54 years old, in college getting my CS degree and on the side am teaching myself front-end. I have a background in web design - HTML, CSS, Photoshop, wireframes - stuff like that. It was good to hear how you started and the bottom and worked your way in. What a great story!

[@abubakarabdiwarsame8249]

P

[@abubakarabdiwarsame8249]

P

[@syed1559]

Travis, you have fantastic presentation skills: great projection, timely pauses, and nothing over the top. I was quite busy to listen to the entire talk but not enough not to leave a well-deserving comment.

[@itconnect7006]

Very helpful information shared here, Travis. I'm grateful to have chanced on this

[@jjvs9]

Fark man I’m 30, been married a year, marketing/sales background but recently laid off, unemployed and I’ve been stuck been procrastinating moving forward with learning to code but this was super inspiring. Great story about how if you just put in the work and keep showing up, opportunities will arise and you shall succeed 🙏

[@TheMorges1]

Completely agree Travis - these videos are essential to show everyone that becoming a Developer is completely realistic; you don't have to be a Genius, a unicorn or from the right background; that we all have things to offer - and most importantly we can all build products just as well as the next guy (for the most part). Love this!!!!

[@RcKingz]

Thank you for sharing your story and journey! I just found your channel today and I will look back over your content.

[@teniolao1]

This is really encouraging. Really love the transparency ❤ thank you for sharing your journey. I really needed this

[@mustafamasetic1981]

My god, how I liked this part where you thought you asked to much:) Anybody that has been in that situation knows that feeling. I really like your story, so happy you made it!

[@christopheanfry2425]

Thank you for this video, I’m 40 and making the transition it’s hard with also 3 kids and not a lot of time to code. Encouragement is what I need so thanks. I’ve subscribed and will follow you on twitter 🙏🙏🙏

[@VikashKumar-qi9tx]

You’re just so great at life !! Very motivational! Respect your family supporting you when nobody knew what lies in the future but you with your commitment and confidence you did it Travis!!

[@jacquicope9843]

Thank you for sharing your story. I feel my story so far has a number of similarities to yours. I’m currently in a bit of a slump and trying to take a step back to reenergise and come back stronger. Your story has provided me with great inspiration. I’m hopeful that, while it doesn’t feel like it in some ways, I’m at a good cross road where things will pick up and take off. Your story reminds me that this is often how things happen 😊. Thank you again!

[@Science_And_Facts_1570]

very inspiring indeed. a new subscriber here from Philippines. wish you even more success in life and to your youtube channel and may you inspire more people who are wanting to get into coding regardless of age. and even if you are not very good with math, you can still become a programmer. but it does take genuine passion to learn and dedication and yes, i agree, you need motivation.

[@verb0ze]

I'm glad you put this out. This is the true nature of software dev, no matter your background. I went the traditional route with a CS degree, but the journey is the same. This field evolves so quickly, you NEED to be able to learn on the job. You'll otherwise get displaced very quickly! Also, your story is amazing. It's about grit, I don't doubt for a second that if it were rocket science you wanted to learn, you'd succeed as well. You made the biggest investment I've can make, the one in yourself. It's cliché, but if you truly believe you can do it, you always find a way!

[@gabrielsebastian5505]

Travis, you are such an inspiration for me, congrats for all what you achieved 👏👏

[@mohdjibly6184]

Amazing...very inspiring journey...thanks for sharing Travis :)

[@TracksWithDax]

The radio thing make sense... I was wondering why your voice is so dang smooth!

[@SimeonUdoh]

I don't comment often on KZbin videos but this is one of them I really had to. I really enjoyed the story of your journey - genuine and comprehensive. Bonus point for inspiring me to be great. You just earned a new subscriber. Thanks Travis!

[@harvwallbanger1896]

🤣🤡

[@michaeldosoo5994]

Absolutely amazing and inspirational !!! It’s really insightful how every so often you take a step back and re-evaluate your career goals because it’s so easy to drift along and lose direction..

[@SecTechie]

I really like the drive you have. You never gave up no matter what. Great video. Keep on coding! Thanks.

[@AntonBaton]

I am exactly at that stage where you had 3 kids and decided to take that boot camp. I am older now than you were, but I am in exactly the same situation. Your wife supported you! That is a big deal! Thank you for this video! I am still strugling which course or boot camp to take, so I would not waste my precious time, and I am a little bit panicking...

[@phongtranquoc7557]

Im 20 and finally discovered what i really want to do, may us both be decent developers in the near future

[@reynaldomata1141]

I’ve had a similar experience. I’m 31. I was let go from the biggest company in the world about 6 months ago. I had been there for 9 years… customer service there. And throughout the years I also learned some coding within Wordpress templates. Changing g things around to “make it my own” I went from working customer service to now working in IT as a help desk analyst. During this time I’m doing all I can to learn more about IT, specifically get into coding and eventually into a cyber security role. That’s my goal and it’s insane how our stories are similar In some parts of our life.

[@user-uw3qs9xb4c]

All the best bro!

[@notaperson]

This was the video I needed to see. I felt discouraged in my journey to provide better for my family. We share a similarity of experiences. Thank you for this.

[@nuwais]

Excellent! Loved it 100 percent. Thank you for sharing your route. Bless you.

[@PhillipMHarden]

I’m 45. I’ll have my bachelors degree in web design & development in 5 weeks. However, I am feeling imposter syndrome hardcore right now and I’m very nervous about being able to land that first junior developer job! You’re video was encouraging, I’m still nervous though lol😂

[@sidneydean.]

I think you'd be surprised at how many people feel impostor syndrome. I know the feeling all too well.

[@ChooseU4ever]

You can do this. I'm 45 too and just started to code.

[@GeorgeBamfo]

It is a normal and healthy feeling in tech . If you manage it well you can br a senior in no time

[@amazingridence3119]

Omg I feel like my story is parallel to yours. I'm 35 years old married with 2 kids. I've been managing a restaurant and I've been here for the past 10+ years. I've always loved tech and I'm trying to transition into coding. This is super encouraging!!

[@atharvsingh6901]

You can and you will, believe that. All you need is good direction and right study material. 📖

[@amazingridence3119]

@atharvsingh6901 thank you so much! I'm actually learning python as we speak so I'm on my way! 😁

[@atharvsingh6901]

@@amazingridence3119 python can do wonders. Go for it.

[@manuelgonzales6483]

I'm so stressed out about starting, but hearing your journey really encouraging me to bulldoze through. Thanks, I know things worth having requires work and dedication. 😁🥳🎉

[@sandyyeo4238]

This describes how I feel learning coding on top of a full time job. Your experience is very real and relatable. Thank you for sharing 😊

[@doweensbwambale]

am also learning Java, your story, age and everything is same as mine. Hope I become successful one day. Here in Uganda, Africa. Thanks for an encouraging video.

[@danieldael5425]

"I can relate to this story. I felt stuck and hopeless with my current career. I'm already 30 years old, and I want to be a web developer, even though I don't have a computer degree. I have been employed for 5 years as an encoder/office staff, and I'm getting bored with my job. However, I have to do it to pay my bills. After work, I spend my nights practicing coding. I enrolled in a coding bootcamp, and somehow I was able to finish it despite my hectic schedule. For now, I'm still practicing my coding skills, and hopefully, I can find a job as a web developer soon."

[@Pekeqsd]

Travis, I just finished a coding bootcamp and I cant thank you enough for your content! The job market looks pretty difficult and I do not feel so confident about my skills yet but your chanel really helps put things into perspective and keep going.

[@raymondstone2478]

Man I appreciate this video !!! Thanks for sharing your story !!!

[@corybuckner4236]

I'm a 33 year old automotive technician looking to transfer into the tech world, so this video hit me right in the feels. Thank you for sharing your journey!

[@jerictorres3552]

It’s incredibly inspiring to hear that the Chris Martin also struggled from imposter syndrome. Truly inspires me to keep on pushing on my dev journey.

[@theproactivemindset]

You are such an inspiration Travis!!! What a great journey!!! truly inspiring story 👌 Thanks for sharing 👏

[@nipunaratnayake2375]

Man this is one of the best user journeys I heard..!! Thanks for lightning the inspiration ❤️🤗

[@Jakub1P]

Wow thank you so much for the encouragement! I am 21 years old, no higher education, and starting my IT journey. I have to say, I really appreciate your honesty and authenticity. Way to go, you’re the man!

[@danneytee]

Hi Travis! I had the privilege of being born into an entrepreneurial family and began my own journey by starting various businesses. Unfortunately, like many, the pandemic hit and I was forced to start over from scratch. However, I used this as an opportunity to learn web development to manage my own business websites and have since switched my career path. It has been 18 months since I made this change and I haven't looked back since. I want to say you gave me the inspiration to want and start creating videos to teach and give back to the community. Thank you for your support and for allowing me to share my journey with you.

[@TravisMedia]

That’s awesome!! Thanks for sharing that. Keep at it!

[@AyalaStudios]

I’ve watched this video multiple times over the past couple months & man, it is truly motivational. As a father & mostly self taught individual, it really strikes home. Amazing!

[@brussells]

So glad I stumbled across this video! It's an incredible journey you've been on, and really interesting to hear how you forged forward to where you wanted to be. I'm currently in a role I don't enjoy (non-coding), and want to enjoy waking up on a Monday morning. I've tried so many times, with very little success, to start learning code. I get a week of full on enthusiasm, start feeling good, but then something happens. I study less, I code less, skip a day (or three), and then it wanes. I really struggle to stay self motivated. I know I need to push on, and actually learn, else nothing else is going to change. And I only have myself to blame. But that still fails to make me put in the hard work. Don't get me wrong, I'm no slacker. I work hard. And every time I try and figure out what I want to do, I circle back around to coding. It's definitely something I want to do. Not sure whether there's any advice other than "get on with it, you idiot, or else you'll be stuck in your current job". But if there is anything you can offer, it would be much appreciated. Either way, I look forward to now watching more of your content.

[@eloymelo]

Hello, Travis!! Maybe you should think about doing more videos like this one. You really gave me motivation to keep pushing forward toward my goal of get a stable job in the IT industry. I just got an opportunity to work (intership) as a help desk in a big company here in Brazil, so I guess it's a start. Thank you again for the video and keep up the good work! ((:

[@TravisMedia]

Thanks for the feedback! And, a start is a start, congrats!

[@danielarthur8080]

​@@TravisMedia listening to you and its exactly what i am going through can i hit up with you

[@dogattention]

Great video! I am 40 and started to code in my mid 30s, so it’s never too late!

[@excel-finanzas-pakal5559]

Thanks for sharing your story Travis, I liked it a lot, I´m from Mexico, and I´m on my way on learning to code. Your story is very inspiring.

[@rhouknee]

Just listening to you is so inspiring. This has really motivated me. Thank you so much.

[@dotunn]

This sounds almost like me, so similar you can't even imagine. At some point whilst working in a major company (in an entry level role)i realised if i didn't learn something "highly skilled and professional" i was going to get constantly cut! I had already been laid off twice due to outsourcing and thats not fun when older. So in my mid-30s headed back to university (i took the college route) and started learning Web Development. It was a long journey and people felt it was too late for me for that (i could see it in their eyes when i told them what i was studying). But, i'm a web developer now at a major company. Keep going everyone, especially if you're a little older and feel you need something solid in your life career wise. I wish i did it earlier but oh well.

[@caseycoker1051]

I used to love programming when I was in high school. I even got an associates degree in computer programming. Despite this I still ended up letting myself get stuck in dead end jobs instead of pursuing it. Now Im 36 years old and am looking to get back into programming. It hurts to think of how much time Ive wasted, but I really hope something comes of it going forward.

[@graceconteh6737]

This is pretty inspiring! Thank you very much for sharing your story, sir!

[@shahadat.hussain20]

I usually dont stick listening to lengthy podcasts. This story is relatable and valuable. It validates somethings that I do and has reinspired me to keep going. Thanks Travis for this content.

[@NursesToRiches]

I'm not a software engineer. I'm just a nurse-been one for 10 years-but I found your story very inspiring. I have always been interested in coding because I can see it as a way of simplifying my life and the tasks that would help me turn my side hustle into a proper business. Keep it up man, you've definitely come a long way.

[@bxnny0374]

“Just” a nurse. That hurts to see. Nurses are the backbone of society! You have the most important, difficult job there is. Hate to see how society has devalued you to the point where you actually believe you’re “just” a nurse. Nurses are real-life superheroes ❤

[@TheSoulCrisis]

@@bxnny0374 Agree so much.......know your WORTH!!

[@arifahmedkhan2716]

I am really inspired. I have to retire in December 2019. I am finance and accounting exp. In January 2023, after listening people like you. I decided to learn coding, and just started learning Python. God knows whether i will be successful like you guys. I am now 59, hahaha.

[@TravisMedia]

Love that you are still learning and getting at it at 59!!

[@updateserver]

Keep going😄

[@kuyajj68]

Man I love the change in beat as soon as you got the job , amazing story of your life❤️

[@codeyourwings]

Amazing story! Thank you for sharing your personal experience. It does make a difference to someone like me who thought it was too late to make a career transition in my mid-30s. I remember it being extremely difficult to break that "too late for this/that" mindset when I first decided to learn to code 2 years back, amid the pandemic. I had just turned 35 and was unhappy with my life as well as my career. Tweeting about my coding ambitions helped me at the time to connect with people who were going through a similar journey. I have been coding on and off ever since and making progress surely but slowly. But making that incremental progress helped me through some tough times in my life. It kept me sane. Now I am just a couple of weeks shy of 37, and have recently become a proud dad to my first child. Career-wise, I am now absolutely positive that only good things can come from pursing this journey full time. Your video also reminded me to document my progress and to reach out to people in the industry. That pushes you to grow! Cheers!

[@stuffjoshisdoing5264]

I'm starting at 40. So here we go.

[@sofiabaldwin]

*I'm so happy I made productive decisions about my finances that changed my life forever. I'm a single mother living in Melbourne Australia, bought my second house in February hoping to retire next year at 42 if things keep going smoothly for me*

[@JosephPeters-pl4bk]

HOW! I would really appreciate if you tell me how to go about it.

[@sofiabaldwin]

This is all thanks to Mr Philip McCarthy. I invest with him and have made a lot of money investing with him

[@helenboyles886]

I heard a lot of investing with Mr Philip McCarthy how good is he, please how safe are the profit

[@sylvesterremonnd5472]

Please how can I reach out to Mr. philip McCarthy? I urgently need his management on my INVESTMENTS !

[@lindseylamar1990]

He's on What's Apk, 👇

[@leonlagrey]

Thanks so much for taking us to your journey Travis!, I am now learning web development basics right at this moment I am taking bootcamp classes right now as I am right this comment right now. learning web design to leave my current position as a retail associate. Your story has only pushed me forward into doing something else.

[@Scrotux]

Man this is super helpful. I just found you and it answers so many questions I had. Thanks for putting this up.