How do *I* even build an app?

So, here's a little behind the scenes: I have no idea what I'm doing, but I'm doing it anyway.

How? By figuring it out.

Sure, that's a cop-out, great generic phrase that looks good on a self-stroking LinkedIn post, or splashed across someones Instagram reel as it cycles through videos of them typing on a computer, going to the gym, and making a smoothie, but I really do want to build this app that plans great date nights for people even though I really have no idea how to do it myself.

But I know how to google things. And find resources. And ask questions of people knowledgeable in the things where I am big dum dum.

So what does that actually look like?

• I reach out to my city's Small Business Administration and schedule meetings with coaches on business and app building .

• I join my local rotary club to network and gain insight from people who have built successful businesses.

• I listen to podcasts on pitching to investors to get real understanding of what key metrics actually matter, and how to incorporate them along with smaller features to build to increase valuation.

• I watch videos on how to build a landing page and mobile site, and then incorporate google analytics into links so I can ID and track the most effective communication channels.

• I scrape reddit for how other people have built apps, and information on different sales/marketing/growth/funding/monetization strategies.

• I visit bars/restaurants/events and engage random strangers to conduct market research and customer discovery so I know what people actually want with this app.

• I mess around with different programs to learn how to design business cards, wire frame an app, or manage all social media in one place.

• I listen to audiobooks on the way to work and at the gym on business, communication, habits, space marines (FOR THE EMPEROR!), and iterative software development.

But more than anything, it means No Zero Days. In between work, commuting, cooking, cleaning, DIY projects, picking up all the dog poop from winter, practicing comedy, going to the gym, yet another First Date, trying a new bar, playing a round of video games, helping out friends, and everything else that takes up life, I make sure to do some work towards building this app everyday.

I can't wait to look back and blatantly lie about how it's the easiest thing I've ever done.

Without further ado, this weeks suggestions.

Date Ideas

Unique: Look up a local astronomy club nearby and join them for a night of stargazing through telescopes.

Outing: Visit a petting zoo. Definitely do not try to steal a baby animal...but maybe.

Stay Home: Surf Zillow/Redfin together and critique homes WAY out of your price range.

Conversation starter

"Is there a documentary or book that has had a significant impact on the way you think about something?"