Build Different

E9 - Rocket Science and Model-Based Systems Engineering with Nathan Hoffer

In this episode of the Build Different podcast, hosts Sam and David Weiss welcome systems engineer Nathan Hoffer from Northrop Grumman to dive into the fascinating world of rocket science. Nathan shares insights from his seven-plus years working on solid rocket motors, explaining the differences between solid, liquid, and hybrid rocket propulsion systems. The conversation covers cutting-edge innovations like Smart Demo's washable mandrels, Stoke Space's revolutionary approach to heat shields, and the challenges of model-based systems engineering. From the technical aspects of rocket fuel casting to career advice for aspiring engineers, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at modern aerospace development and the exciting second golden age of rocketry.

E8 - AI Orchestration with Jason Smith

In this episode of Built Different, hosts David and Sam Weiss sit down with principal engineer Jason Smith for a deep dive into AI-powered software development and the revolutionary changes reshaping the industry. Jason shares his journey from his "iPhone moment" with ChatGPT to building sophisticated AI development teams using Claude Code. The conversation explores practical applications of AI in coding, from simple vibe coding to advanced orchestration of multiple AI agents working in parallel. The discussion tackles tough questions: Will AI replace developers? How do junior developers level up when AI eliminates middle-tier work? What's the future of handcrafted code? Jason introduces his innovative approach using Claude's commands and sub-agents to create specialized AI team members like "Kai" (VP of Product) and "Max" (VP of Engineering) who coordinate complex development tasks autonomously. The trio explores how AI is pushing developers toward management and orchestration roles rather than pure coding. This conversation is essential listening for developers at any level, tech leaders considering AI adoption, and anyone curious about the rapidly evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and software engineering. Whether you're skeptical about AI or already deep in the trenches, this episode offers practical insights and philosophical perspectives on navigating this transformation.

E7 - What is Simplicity with Charles Cozad

Join hosts David and Sam Weiss as they sit down with Charles Cozad, a seasoned software engineer and lifelong builder, to explore one of engineering's greatest paradoxes: why building simple solutions is actually the hardest thing to do. Charles challenges the industry's obsession with clever solutions and explains the constant tension between complexity and simplicity in software development. The conversation explores why simple solutions require the most sophistication, drawing parallels between software engineering and art, music, and poetry. Charles also provides guidance for how young engineers should use AI tools in their work.

E6 - Sound Money with Don Owen

In this episode of the Build Different podcast, brothers Sam and David Weiss sit down with their uncle Don to explore what makes money "sound" and why it matters for everyday Americans. Don shares his journey from losing money in the stock market to understanding the hidden mechanisms behind inflation and fiat currency. The conversation unpacks how America functioned for 150 years on a gold and silver standard with minimal inflation, and how the shift to fiat currency in the 1930s created a system where politicians and banks could print money unconstrained. Through personal stories of retirement savings eroded by inflation and market crashes, Don offers hard-won wisdom about the hidden tax that nobody votes on. They discuss counterintuitive truths—like how 3% official inflation might really be 10%, how a 1920s suit costs the same in gold today as it did then, and why the minimum wage problem might actually be a sound money problem. Don also shares his investment strategy and emerging possibilities for monetary reform, including gold-backed bonds and cryptocurrency's role in reshaping the system. Join the Weiss brothers for this candid conversation about money, markets, and building financial security in an era of unprecedented monetary experimentation.

E5 - Building Community

In this episode of the Build Different podcast, brothers Sam and David Weiss explore the profound importance of community. Sam shares his journey from pursuing self-sufficiency during COVID to realizing true resilience comes through community connections. David recounts his transformative experience moving to rural Wyoming, where he discovered a deeply interconnected community that supports each other through harsh conditions and personal challenges. The brothers discuss how community manifests through shared tools, teaching skills, providing emotional support, and working together. They highlight counterintuitive aspects of community building—like how asking for help can actually strengthen relationships and open doors for deeper connections. Through personal stories about processing pigs, hunting elk, and supporting each other through job loss, they reveal how community creates safety nets that allow people to weather life's difficulties together. They contrast America's "self-made individual" mythology with the reality that interdependence creates stronger, happier, and more resilient lives. Join Sam and David for this heartfelt conversation about how community isn't just nice to have—it's essential for our wellbeing and the healthy development of the next generation.