Let's Talk Code and Chords: A Musician's Path to Becoming a Software Engineer with Tanner Smith

Episode #48: Let's Talk Code and Chords: A Musician's Path to Becoming a Software Engineer with Tanner Smith! ⁠FULL TRANSCRIPT⁠ In this episode, we will be talking to Tanner Smith, a musician who found his way into the world of software engineering. Tanner shares his unique journey and challenges while building his own business to connect fans with the bands they love. Tanner shares his experience of learning to code and how he eventually landed his first job as a software engineer. He also talks about how his experience as a musician helped him in his career path and how he applies the same creativity and passion to his projects. Tanner also shares some valuable advice for anyone looking to switch careers or break into the tech industry. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, dedication, and having a strong support system. Whether you are a musician looking to switch careers or someone who wants to pursue software engineering, this podcast episode will provide you with valuable insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore Tanner's unique journey and learn from his experiences! About Tanner Smith Tanner Smith is a native of Oklahoma City, OK, and a dynamic individual with a strong drive for success. With a lifelong passion for music and technology, Tanner's career has been heavily influenced by these interests. He holds a degree in music business and gained valuable experience managing and performing with the ska-punk band Sunny Side Up, where he became intrigued by the possibilities at the intersection of music and technology. Tanner's love for technology eventually led him to a career in software engineering at Drov Technologies, a leading technology company in Oklahoma City, where he excels as a skilled developer. Despite his success in the tech industry, Tanner remained committed to his love of music and technology, leading him to launch his own music technology startup, Fanwave. Through Fanwave, Tanner aims to reshape the live entertainment industry by making it more interactive, immersive, and engaging for all parties involved. Beyond his entrepreneurial accomplishments, Tanner is an active member of his community. He serves on the Board of Directors for Techlahoma, a non-profit technology organization where he mentors aspiring entrepreneurs and programmers. Additionally, he dedicates his time and resources to supporting local artists and musicians, always seeking ways to give back to his hometown of Oklahoma City. Tanner's dedication, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit have earned him a prominent position in Oklahoma City's music and technology communities. His work with Fanwave and his contributions to his community are leaving a lasting impact on the industry and the city. Learn more about Fanwave.io by visiting https://www.fanwave.io/ Want to support this podcast? Subscribe, leave a review/rating, share with a friend & consider becoming a monthly supporter of Coffey & Code. Thanks for listening! -Ashley Coffey EPISODE CREDITS: Produced and edited by Ashley Coffey. Cover art designed by Ashley Coffey. Headshot by Brandlink Media Introduction music composed and produced by Ashley Coffey LINKS Follow Coffey & Code on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, and YouTube for the latest emerging tech updates! Subscribe to the Coffey & Code Podcast wherever you get your podcasts to be notified when new episodes go live. © 2026 Coffey & Code Podcast. All rights reserved. The content of this podcast, including but not limited to text, graphics, audio, and images, is the property of Ashley Coffey and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used in any manner without the express written consent of the owner.