In this special episode from AWS re:Invent 2024, Jon Myer sits down with AWS Chief Evangelist Jeff Barr to discuss his incredible 20-year journey writing the AWS Blog. Jeff shares insights about starting the technical blog in 2004, his commitment to accuracy and authenticity, and his exciting plans for the future. Learn about Jeff’s impact on the AWS community, his experience at re:Invent, and the promise of purple hair that might signal his eventual retirement.
Key Takeaways:
🌟 Started AWS Blog in 2004 – 3,300+ posts later
📝 Transitioning to deeper technical content in 2024
💜 Watch for purple hair – it signals retirement!
🤝 Values community connections at re:Invent
🔨 Plans to return to hands-on building
🎯 Always tests services before writing
⚡ Prefers live content over recorded sessions
🤳 Loves meeting AWS community at events
Timeline:
0:00 – Introduction and welcome
0:28 – Jeff’s purple hair retirement promise
0:45 – Discussion about enjoying technical evangelism
1:30 – Impact of AWS blogs on developers
2:03 – History of AWS Blog starting in 2004
3:02 – Evolution of technical blogging
4:08 – Jeff’s approach to authenticity in writing
7:01 – Commitment to testing services personally
8:18 – Discussion about 20 years of blogging
9:04 – Future plans and “back to builder” moment
10:42 – Exploring new focus areas
13:28 – Live vs recorded content preference
14:29 – Working with released services
16:32 – Re:Invent preparation and work-life balance
17:35 – Favorite aspects of re:Invent
19:51 – The expo and community experience
20:32 – Social media impact and selfies
21:17 – Closing thoughts and future possibilities
22:09 – Wrap-up
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