Now
James Gifford
What I'm doing now
(This is a now page, and if you have your own site you should make one!)
I'm in Columbus, Ohio, USA.
- I am reading lots of books, and reflecting on the future of software engineering and society, given the current and likely future capabilities of AI.
- recent reads: The complete 10 book "Starship New Jersey" set , Mindfulness for Beginners, and Vibe Coding by Steve Yegge and Gene Kim.
- currently working on: The Cardinal of the Kremlin, by Tom Clancy, and "If anyone builds it" .
- Working on an internal AI coding platform at Upstart. I've been applying over a decade of experience building CI/CD platforms and cultures to the problems of AI coding and particularly code review as AI continues to develop.
- In addition to designing and building tools, my day to day includes coaching, mentorship, and helping teams navigate tough decisions.
- We're hiring, and are Digital First (AKA remote friendly).
- Training for life by Rucking and lifting at Starting Strength Columbus.
- For the last 7 years, I've been experimenting with embodiment and my nervous system 3-4 days a week through a combination of prayer, silent meditation, breathwork and stretching.
- My wife and I have lost four pregnancies over the last three years, and this practice has been a large part of how I've carried that as a loss dad. Therapy has been helpful as I look to continue moving through and forward.
If you have experienced this, and would like to chat - I'm an open book on this topic. Reach out on X or via email (james@armyofminions.com).
- My wife and I have lost four pregnancies over the last three years, and this practice has been a large part of how I've carried that as a loss dad. Therapy has been helpful as I look to continue moving through and forward.
This Page Last Updated September 8 2026