The Full Stack Leader

Fun to hack on a side project with teammates.

Yes, we’re still using IRC in 2026, haha.

Don’t call it a comeback!

An excellent explanation for how Automattic practices clear communication even with 1,500 people spread across dozens of time zones.

Are you a WordPresser?

When I started my new role in late 2024, I came across a blog post by Anthony Hobday listing companies with dedicated quality efforts.

I recently joined Between Two COOs to chat with Michael Koenig about quality, leadership, and how we scale open-source software at Automattic including WordPress.com, Woo, Jetpack, and lots more.

What does a “head of quality” do?

“Elon Musk” level questioning as a rigorous, five-step process (in this exact order, paraphrased): Question all requirements, esp. if someone smart made them Try to delete parts or steps in the process Simplify or optimize what’s left Accelerate cycle time

Config 2025 talk by Karri Saarinen, CEO of Linear Highly recommend this talk, and agree with the notion that quality, craft, and care are competitive advantages.

Most people I interact with don’t proactively help others greet them by name.

Source: Doc Pop on YouTube explaining the Fediverse, on the WordPress.com channel—the first frame shows this motto on a sticker graphic.

You can’t capture lightning in a bottle.