014
Vibe Coding That Works
16/07/2025
Pete Winn, Andy David
Pete and Andy introduce "slow code," their methodology for coding with AI that prioritizes intentionality over the quick-but-messy "vibe coding" approach, combining human planning with AI execution through a three-phase process of ideation, planning, and implementation.
The conversation explores their tool stack, how multi-agent conversations avoid single-model bias, and how this methodology parallels creative frameworks like "write drunk, edit sober."
Description
In this episode, the hosts discuss their development of "slow code," a more intentional approach to coding with AI that contrasts with "vibe coding."
They explore how this methodology creates a structured workflow combining human planning with AI execution, resulting in higher quality code while maintaining the speed benefits of AI assistance.
Key Themes: *Understanding Vibe Coding* (00:02:20 - 00:08:00)
Vibe coding involves speaking instructions to AI and ignoring the underlying code
Democratizes coding by allowing anyone to build in natural language
Major downside: potential security issues and poor code quality
*Evolution to Slow Code* (00:08:00 - 00:19:40)
Hosts developed methodologies through experimentation with AI tools
Initial frustrations with existing AI coding tools led to refinement
Slow code combines intentional planning with AI execution
*Three-Phase Methodology* (00:19:40 - 00:25:30)
Ideation: Using Claude Desktop for exploration and brainstorming
Planning: Converting ideas to structured documents and roadmaps in Obsidian
Execution: Having AI implement based on detailed specifications
*Tools and Implementation* (00:25:30 - 00:40:00)
Using Obsidian for planning and documentation
Connecting to AI tools via MCP (Model Context Protocol)
Root Code for implementation with orchestration capabilities
Benefits of separating environments for different phases
*Multi-Agent Conversations* (00:40:00 - 00:51:00)
Creating pipelines where multiple AI agents discuss ideas
Using different models (Claude, Grok) to avoid single-model biases
Value in seeing how ideas develop through agent conversations
*Benefits of Slow Code* (00:51:00 - 01:01:30)
Creates reusable, higher quality code versus one-shot vibe coding
Maintains human intentionality and design control
Still much faster than traditional development
Parallels the "write drunk, edit sober" approach to creative work
*Future Applications* (01:01:30 - 01:15:00)
Integration with Goose for continuous development and scheduling
Creating dedicated AI development environments
Applications beyond coding (writing, research, analysis)
Plans to share methodology through tutorials and community
*Contrasts with No-Code Tools* (01:15:00 - 01:26:00)
Visual no-code tools add unnecessary complexity
Slow code leverages AI's strengths while maintaining human oversight
More flexible than constrained visual interfaces
Check out more episodes
The Good Stuff is a low-fi dialogue with Pete Winn and Andy David.
Each week, we share our everyday experiences working with artificial intelligence and how it's fundamentally changing the rules of work and business, the economy, entrepreneurship, and human potential. We explore the ripple effects, unintended consequences, and emerging opportunities as AI transforms how we work and create, diving into the tools and technology we're using each week.
Expect a mix of chats out of the back of a van at the beach, walking interviews and general use of dialectic and discussion with insightful guests that lift the lid on complex topics. Chilled out, minimal jargon, authentic.
Connect With Us:
Email: info@otherstuff.studio
Pete: https://x.com/Pete_Winn
Andy: https://x.com/andymdavid
Transcript
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