The Heartful Technologist

EPISODE 11 This episode explores the importance of small diligences in our work and personal lives. CK uses the cleanliness of headphones as a metaphor to discuss how we take care of the small, often invisible things that make up our daily routines. By paying attention to these small details, we can build habits and disciplines that contribute to our creative confidence and professional growth. Th...

EPISODE 10 CK shares his experience with a photography project where he takes and posts a photo every day for a year. He discusses how this daily practice has become more intentional over time, forcing him to be more observant and creative. This project has also given him a new perspective on the importance of daily practices and creative processes. Through his journey, CK highlights the value of...

EPISODE 009 This episode explores the importance of human intervention in technology systems. CK shares a recent experience where a small change to a routine process had unintended consequences due to a breakdown in communication and human interpretation. Let's discuss the need for a balance between human intervention and automation, emphasizing that technology systems are built for humans...right...

EPISODE 008 This episode explores the concept of "gear acquisition syndrome" (G.A.S.) where individuals feel an overwhelming desire to acquire new equipment, often driven by influencer marketing. CK shares his personal experience with G.A.S. while preparing for a 365 photography project and discusses how he overcame the urge to buy a more expensive camera. By being mindful of the underlying desire...

EPISODE 007 This episode explores the importance of having a purpose or plan for growth as a creative. CK shares insights on how to break out of a creative rut by developing simple habits such as documenting lessons learned, maintaining a tidy workspace and personal appearance, and regularly exploring new experiences. By incorporating these habits into daily life, creatives can build confidence, s...

EPISODE 006 Feeling stuck? Explaining your problems out loud can help. This simple trick, known as "rubber ducking," can be done with a rubber duck, a large language model, or another human being. Explaining yourself in detail to someone else can lead to surprising results and new insights. By sharing your thoughts and problems with others, you can gain a deeper understanding and find solutions. T...

EPISODE 005 This episode explores the idea of when we do our best creative work. CK reflects on his personal journey of realizing that his most productive and creative hours are not late at night - they're actually during the day. He discusses how this shift in perspective has impacted his approach to work and creativity. He invites listeners to consider their own productivity and creative pattern...

EPISODE 004 “It's not even for clean water, man." In this episode, CK reflects on late nights, big efforts, and the sobering realization that some projects weren't all that meaningful. We sometimes experience a quiet disillusionment - perhaps you feel it in your own work - and it's not bitterness, just perspective. Even when your contributions feel small or disconnected, they still matter if you b...

EPISODE 003 In this episode, CK gets a little sentimental (in the best way) reflecting on the gear we collect in tech—and how our relationship with tools can shape our work. Watching how children curate their own little “kits” of favorite objects, their simplicity stands in stark contrast to his collections. It’s not an anti-gear rant, more of a gentle nudge: don’t let the hardware become the poin...

EPISODE 002 In this reflective episode, CK shares how a year of independent work has brought a deep sense of calm and clarity. He ties the feeling to the changing Midwest seasons—fall’s natural slowing echoing his own shift in pace. After years of software development at agencies, this new rhythm has helped him realize the power of purposeful work. Even amid stress and uncertainty, having directio...