Contrary to the standard stereotype of a “Computer Science Geek”, I have always loved socializing and speaking in front of both small and large groups. In the past, I spent many evenings standing behind a microphone recording podcasts. I was the co-host of Developology, a podcast about software development and related fields. I also co-hosted Apptastic Reviewers discussing and reviewing iOS apps on the TechJives network. Currently, my main “speaking” hobby is my weekly Toastmasters meetings at the Decisive Toastmasters group.
From 2012 to 2015, I also encouraged other Geeks to get out and show that we can be social, as co-organizer of the Ottawa Geek Social Club. Throughout my time there, I ran panels at Ottawa Comic-con and social Meet & Geek events. It was through this club that I met my husband!
Less contrary, I love video games. As a former World of Warcraft enthusiast, I created and wrote for a blog called Mend Pet I worked on Mend Pet for almost 2 years, in its prime the blog had about 500 subscribed readers, back when RSS was still a ‘thing’. It’s been a valuable experience, and I’ve learned a lot about community, writing, WordPress development and website maintenance.