☕ The RPG Roast: Real Code, Real Coffee, No Nonsense

I’ve been building software on the IBM i for over 30 years—long enough to remember when RPG looked more like a spreadsheet than a language. I’ve seen it evolve into something clean, powerful, and modern. And I’ve seen too many developers get left behind.

This blog—The RPG Roast—is about fixing that.

Today, I’m drinking Green Mountain Dark Roast. It’s bold, dependable, and gets the job done without fuss. Just like RPG, when it’s written well.

Why “The RPG Roast”?

Because most of us run on two things: coffee and code. This site is where those two meet—real-world RPG tips, leadership advice, and straight forward strategies for managing legacy systems and modern teams. No fluff. No buzzwords. Just practical, actionable guidance based on decades of experience.

Who’s it for?

• Developers upgrading their RPG skills without losing momentum
• Managers trying to train new talent while keeping projects on track
• Anyone staring down a 2,000-line monolith wondering how to chip away at it smartly
• Anyone who wants to learn RPG—whether you’re new to the platform or coming from another language

If RPG ever felt like a sacred text written by the ancient order of COBOL monks, you’re in the right place.

What you’ll find here:

• RPG and SQL tutorials designed for busy pros who want results
• Mentoring and team-building tips that actually work in the trenches
• Leadership advice grounded in reality, focused on accountability and growth
• Tools and workflows proven in production, not just theory
• The occasional dad joke, because serious coding needs a break
• And yes, updates on what coffee fuels the writing

What’s next?

I post every Friday. Quick reads, clear takeaways, and actionable steps. If you're a developer, a team lead, or just someone navigating IBM i in 2025,  follow me on LinkedIn.

Pull up a chair. Pour a cup. Let’s get better at this—together.            

—George