940: Picking a Fullstack Stack, Is Next.js Too Complex? Services vs Self-Hosted + More

Syntax - Tasty Web Development Treats

In this potluck episode, Wes and Scott answer your questions about modern full-stack stacks, Node.js backend options, managing database indexes, developer burnout, handling toxic bosses, and more!

Show Notes

• 00:00 Welcome to Syntax!
• 02:36 What’s your go-to Node.js backend in 2025?
  • Polka
• 06:18 Do you proactively manage database indexes—or fix them only when they become a problem?
• 09:40 Brought to you by Sentry.io
• 12:14 After planning a new project, what’s your real-world dev workflow?
  • 931: Project Init - How to Make Good Choices When Starting a New Coding Project
• 18:19 What to do when you’re feeling burned out as a developer
• 23:34 Picking the right tech stack for your partner’s website
• 28:18 How do you deal with a toxic boss?
• 33:10 The ideal tech stack for launching a SaaS MVP
• 39:46 Is GraphQL still worth it vs REST or RPC?
• 44:26 Is Vercel steering modern web dev in the wrong direction?
• 51:20 What’s up with TanStack Forms?
  • TanStack Form Latest
• 59:35 Sick Picks + Shameless Plugs

Sick Picks

• Scott: Flesh and Code
• Wes: WAGO connectors

Shameless Plugs

• Syntax YouTube Channel

Hit us up on Socials!

Syntax: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads

Wes: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads

Scott: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads

Randy: X Instagram YouTube Threads