#151 Automating a coffee shop chain using self-taught coding skills with Eamonn Cottrell
freeCodeCamp Podcast
Deep Dive
Why did Eamonn Cottrell decide to automate his coffee shop chain using spreadsheets?
Eamonn saw the inefficiencies in the manual processes, such as faxing orders on paper, and wanted to create a more efficient system using Google Sheets and scripting to reduce errors and save time.
How many freeCodeCamp tutorials has Eamonn Cottrell published?
Eamonn has published 37 freeCodeCamp tutorials focused on productivity and automation using spreadsheets.
What is Eamonn Cottrell's daily routine like as a father of four and a coffee shop chain operator?
Eamonn wakes up early, often at 4 a.m., to run and have quiet time before the day starts. He balances family commitments, running the coffee chain, and creating coding tutorials, often going to bed by 8:30 p.m.
What was Eamonn Cottrell's first coding project for his coffee shop chain?
His first project was creating an inventory management and ordering system using Google Sheets and scripting to replace the outdated faxing system.
How does Eamonn Cottrell balance his creative pursuits with his professional responsibilities?
Eamonn channels his creativity into productive tasks like coding, writing tutorials, and running his coffee chain. He believes in finding a balance between creative expression and practical responsibilities to provide for his family.
What is Eamonn Cottrell's approach to personal finance management?
Eamonn uses a custom-built finance tracker in Google Sheets that requires manual input, helping him and his wife stay conscientious about their spending and maintain financial stability.
How did Eamonn Cottrell's experience with addiction shape his life?
Eamonn's addiction led him to rehab at 19, which marked the beginning of his personal growth. He stayed sober for over 20 years and credits his recovery with helping him develop the discipline and focus needed to succeed in his career and personal life.
What is Eamonn Cottrell's opinion on the use of alcohol and recreational drugs?
Eamonn believes that removing psychoactive drugs, including alcohol, can improve cognitive performance and overall productivity. He has been alcohol-free for over eight years and encourages others to consider abstinence for better focus and health.
What are Eamonn Cottrell's future goals for his career and personal life?
Eamonn hopes to transition to full-time technical and creative work, but acknowledges the practical constraints of supporting his family. He plans to continue balancing his current responsibilities with his creative and technical pursuits.
How does Eamonn Cottrell view the role of spreadsheets in business operations?
Eamonn sees spreadsheets as incredibly powerful tools for automation and productivity in small businesses. He believes that even basic spreadsheet skills can make a significant difference in reducing errors and improving efficiency.
- Eamonn's diverse skills and accomplishments
- His use of spreadsheets for productivity and automation
- His work in addiction recovery
Shownotes Transcript