Build Stuff 2025

The Generalist Advantage: Your Superpower #

Build Stuff agenda | Slides

In a world that often celebrates specialisation, the generalist’s path is frequently misunderstood. What is a generalist, and why is this diverse skill set your greatest asset? Celebrating polymaths like Leonardo da Vinci and Natalie Portman, I challenge the notion that being a ‘jack of all trades, master of none’ is a drawback. Instead, I affirm the power of mastering multiple fields and show how it can become your superpower.

Through my personal journey as a multipotentialite, I’ll share how I overcame imposter syndrome and used the Pareto Principle to thrive across various domains. In the open source world, where innovation relies on collaboration and the blending of diverse skills, generalists bring unique value by connecting ideas, bridging gaps, and enabling community-driven problem-solving.

Deep knowledge can fade, but passion for exploration lasts. This talk is a roadmap for anyone who’s ever felt out of place in a world that prizes specialisation. You’ll discover how to harness your wide range of interests, make exploration your greatest strength, and contribute to the vibrant, evolving ecosystems of open source communities.

And even if you’re not a generalist yourself, you’ll gain insights into why having one on your team can be a game-changer, bringing fresh perspectives, bridging diverse skill sets, and driving innovation in ways that specialists alone might not achieve.