Episode #2 - Would You Build a House Without Plans? Then Don’t Build Software Without This
Release Date: 07/18/2025
Episode 6: Agentic AI: Not Just Smarter, Now It Acts on Its Own
Ctrl Alt Dev
In this episode of Ctrl Alt Dev, Paul and Sean discuss the evolution of AI, focusing on agentic AI, which empowers AI systems to take initiative without waiting for instructions. They explore real-world applications, particularly an SMS-based reactivation agent designed to engage dormant leads. The conversation emphasizes the importance of customer retention and how AI can enhance business processes by automating tasks and improving follow-up strategies. The guys also highlight the future potential of AI in business, advocating for a shift from traditional sales methods to a more automated,...
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Episode #5: One Brain to Rule Them All - Building Smarter Projects with AI
Ctrl Alt Dev
In this episode, Paul Rhodes and Sean Sale discuss the concept of the 'AI brain'—a system designed to enhance project delivery and business efficiency through artificial intelligence. They explore the evolution of AI, particularly its ability to retain memory, and how this capability can transform project management and client interactions. The conversation delves into the practicalities of building an AI brain, integrating it with business processes, and the future potential of AI in various industries. Takeaways The AI brain enhances project delivery and business efficiency. ...
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Episode #4: From Idea to Prototype in 8 Hours: How To Validate an Idea with No Code
Ctrl Alt Dev
In this episode, Sean and Paul discuss the concepts of vibe coding and minimum viable products (MVPs), exploring how tools like Replit are revolutionizing the development process. They share insights on the importance of MVPs in validating ideas, the practical applications of Replit in creating MVPs without extensive coding knowledge, and the limitations that come with scaling these products. The conversation emphasizes the need for a disciplined approach to MVP development and the potential of AI tools in the software industry. Takeaways MVPs are essential for validating ideas before...
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Episode #3: Turning Your Website into a Lead Machine (Without Paid Ads)
Ctrl Alt Dev
In this episode of Control Alt Dev, Sean and Paul discuss the evolution of content strategy and its impact on lead generation for software development businesses. They explore the importance of keyword optimization, the use of long-tail keywords, and the significance of case studies in building trust with potential clients. The conversation also covers technical aspects of content optimization, the role of featured snippets, and the necessity of regular content audits to maintain relevance. Finally, they reflect on the changing customer journey and how effective content can drive engagement...
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Episode #2 - Would You Build a House Without Plans? Then Don’t Build Software Without This
Ctrl Alt Dev
In this episode of Ctrl Alt Dev, Paul Rhodes and Sean Sale discuss the critical importance of charging for specifications, also known as paid discovery, in software development. They explore how this practice protects both clients and developers by ensuring clarity and alignment on project goals. Through various analogies, including the architect analogy, they emphasize the necessity of a structured discovery phase to avoid misunderstandings and costly mistakes. The conversation also touches on the evolution of software development practices, the human element in discovery, and the importance...
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Episode #1 - AI, Uncertainty and that Fiverr Email
Ctrl Alt Dev
In this episode, Paul and Sean discuss the transformative impact of AI on software development, exploring how automation, low code, and no code solutions are reshaping the industry. They share personal experiences, insights on job security, and the importance of adapting to new technologies. The conversation highlights the role of AI in code reviews, testing, and bug fixing, emphasizing the need for developers to leverage these tools to enhance productivity and tackle complex problems. Takeaways AI is rapidly changing the landscape of software development. Low code and no code solutions are...
info_outlineIn this episode of Ctrl Alt Dev, Paul Rhodes and Sean Sale discuss the critical importance of charging for specifications, also known as paid discovery, in software development.
They explore how this practice protects both clients and developers by ensuring clarity and alignment on project goals. Through various analogies, including the architect analogy, they emphasize the necessity of a structured discovery phase to avoid misunderstandings and costly mistakes.
The conversation also touches on the evolution of software development practices, the human element in discovery, and the importance of aligning values with clients for successful long-term partnerships.
Takeaways
Charging for discovery protects both clients and developers.
Free quotes often lead to vague specifications and scope creep.
The architect analogy illustrates the importance of planning.
Discovery should focus on outcomes, not just outputs.
The human element in discovery is irreplaceable by AI.
Ctrl Alt Dev is a podcast for software founders, digital leaders and curious builders navigating the fast-changing world of tech, AI, and business.
Hosted by two veteran tech founders, Paul Rhodes & Sean Sale. each episode cuts through the hype with honest conversations, sharp war stories, and frameworks that actually work.
Expect real talk on pricing, project chaos, automation, and scaling, all designed to help you build smarter, lead better, and stay sane.
Paul and Sean can be found here:
Paul Rhodes - [email protected] 01527306370
Sean Sale - [email protected] 0121 2851047