DevDreams & Leonardo Placanica - From Freelance to Startup

Summary

Leonardo Placanica describes how he moved from studying computer science and taking freelance web-development jobs to building a small studio that connects developers with remote clients.

Education and practical skills

Leonardo studied computer science in high school and university, graduating in 2022. He says two courses were especially useful:

• Software engineering taught him a structured process for gathering requirements, designing systems, estimating work, and considering testing and security.
• Web development helped him understand JavaScript’s behavior, performance trade-offs, and how to improve code beyond simply making it work.

The speakers discuss the gap between university curricula and fast-changing industry technologies. They see foundational concepts and methods as valuable even when specific tools change.

Starting as a freelancer

Before graduating, Leonardo learned web development—particularly HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React—through online material, much of it in English. He found early projects through a freelance marketplace identified in the subtitles as Upwork, initially pitching himself for small, remote jobs.

Finding work took persistence. His first projects paid modestly but gave him experience and portfolio material.

Growing through client work

A later engagement with an American startup became a significant step. Working with the team helped Leonardo develop his skills, gain experience building a product, and use English regularly. That experience helped him attract additional clients.

He managed several ongoing clients while completing university remotely, though the workload affected the timing of his graduation.

From solo freelancer to studio

As his client base and income grew, Leonardo began bringing other developers into his work. In October 2022, he established a small studio. At the time of the interview, he says it involved five people, including himself.

He helps developers find suitable clients and projects, while the group shares knowledge, discusses rates, and supports members as they gain experience.

Remote work and trade-offs

The discussion highlights the opportunity to work remotely for international companies while living outside major tech hubs. The speakers also note that freelance work can be less predictable than employment, and remote work may lack the community of an in-person workplace. Leonardo’s studio aims to provide some peer connection and support.

Tax discussion

The speakers discuss Italy’s VAT-number and flat-rate tax arrangements as part of the transition from freelance work to a larger operation. Leonardo describes moving beyond the flat-rate regime as his business grew.

The figures and rules mentioned are conversational, not tax guidance; the speakers emphasize consulting an accountant.

Reviews, guides, or tutorials

No product reviews or step-by-step tutorials are presented. Leonardo discusses learning web development through YouTube and other online resources, and the speakers refer to an earlier DevDreams video about Italian VAT numbers.

Main speakers and source

• Leonardo Placanica — freelance developer and founder of a small developer studio.
• Alfonso — DevDreams host and interviewer.
• Source: DevDreams interview, “DevDreams & Leonardo Placanica – From Freelance to Startup.”