#207: Spicy brains & real code - Simen Daehlin talks coding with neurodiversity

Pybites Podcast

In this episode, we talk with Simen, a senior software engineer and creator of Almost Done, a weekly email newsletter designed for neurodivergent developers and anyone who thinks a little differently. Simen shares how he built a format that supports real attention - short, scannable essays, intentional accessibility choices, and four writing “personas” that shape each issue’s tone.

We explore his creative workflow, why timing matters for engagement, and the “subscriber-first” philosophy that keeps the newsletter personal. Simen also opens up about career growth, simplicity in engineering, and practical systems that help with ADHD traits like hyperfocus and time blindness.

It’s an honest, uplifting conversation about writing, technology, and building a kinder approach to productivity. If the episode resonates, check out Almost Done and share it with someone who’d enjoy it.

Sign up here - https://almostdone.news/

Or view past issues - https://almostdone.news/issues

Reach out to Simen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simendaehlin

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Capitole

1. Welcome And Simon’s Backstory (00:00:00)

2. Why “Almost Done” Exists (00:01:44)

3. Personas, Logo And Spicy Brain Concept (00:04:45)

4. Writing Style, Structure And Tools (00:10:30)

5. Scheduling, Accessibility And Reader Experience (00:14:20)

6. Dev Seniority, Simplicity And Craft (00:19:20)

7. Resonance, Feedback And Human Moments (00:24:00)

8. Pybites Program Break (00:27:48)

9. What Readers Actually Get (00:28:20)

10. Mindset, Consistency And Unsubscribes (00:33:10)

11. Books, Audiobooks And Focus (00:39:40)

12. Final Pitch And Where To Find Simon (00:45:20)

13. Community Invite And Closing (00:47:40)