September 24th, 2025 × #Fullstack#NodeJS#Databases#CareerAdvice
Picking a Fullstack Stack, Is Next.js Too Complex? Services vs Self-Hosted + More
Wes and Scott tackle a potluck of questions: which Node backend to pick, how to plan a project, why free tiers bite you later, whether GraphQL is dead, and whether Next.js has gotten too complicated. Plus a rare disagreement over TanStack Form and sick picks that range from AI girlfriends to Wago connectors.
Wes Bos Host
Scott Tolinski Host
In this potluck episode, Wes and Scott answer your questions about modern full-stack stacks, Node.js backend options, managing database indexes, developer burnout, handling toxic bosses, and more!
Show Notes
- 00:00 Welcome to Syntax!
- 02:36 What’s your go-to Node.js backend in 2025?
- 06:18 Do you proactively manage database indexes—or fix them only when they become a problem?
- 09:40 Brought to you by Sentry.io
- 12:14 After planning a new project, what’s your real-world dev workflow?
- 18:19 What to do when you’re feeling burned out as a developer
- 23:34 Picking the right tech stack for your partner’s website
- 28:18 How do you deal with a toxic boss?
- 33:10 The ideal tech stack for launching a SaaS MVP
- 39:46 Is GraphQL still worth it vs REST or RPC?
- 44:26 Is Vercel steering modern web dev in the wrong direction?
- 51:20 What’s up with TanStack Forms?
- 59:35 Sick Picks + Shameless Plugs
Sick Picks
- Scott: Flesh and Code
- Wes: WAGO connectors
Shameless Plugs
Hit us up on Socials!
Syntax: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads
Wes: X Instagram Tiktok LinkedIn Threads
