I used to own a tiny niche
The author reflects on a shift in their professional identity from being a niche expert in Hotwire Native to a broader role in mobile app development for Rails businesses. This change was prompted by the rise of AI, which made their previous expertise less unique. The author emphasizes the importance of decision-making around code rather than just the code itself.
- ▪The author used to identify as the Hotwire Native expert, having shipped over 25 apps and trained many developers.
- ▪With the advent of AI, the author realized that their niche was no longer a competitive advantage.
- ▪They decided to broaden their services to focus on helping Rails businesses with mobile app decisions rather than just coding.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
I used to own a tiny nicheThe code is a commodity. The decisions around it are not.Joe MasilottiMay 21, 20268ShareHey friends,A few weeks ago I wrote about how the hard part of my job moved. Less typing, more judgment. The work changed.Here’s the part I didn’t say in that one: once the work changed, I had to change how I introduce myself.The tiny nicheFor years, my pitch was “I’m the Hotwire Native guy.” It was honest. I’d shipped 25+ apps on the framework. I wrote the book. I trained hundreds of developers. If you needed someone who knew Hotwire Native, it was me.Owning a niche that small has a funny effect on your business. The leads are perfectly qualified. The conversion rate is high. Nobody else shows up in your inbox talking about the same thing.
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