Explore the value of pursuing unconventional ideas in software development through this conference talk. Discover how seemingly impractical projects, such as creating a custom number system in .NET or building an IoC container in JavaScript, can lead to unexpected learning opportunities and personal growth. Gain insights into the speaker's experiences with various "stupid" ideas, including writing a Git client and building a DNS proxy. Learn why embracing these unconventional projects can be important for skill development, problem-solving, and fostering creativity in coding. Understand the benefits of intrinsic motivation and how it can drive innovation in software engineering. Examine the potential for these seemingly useless ideas to contribute to open-source software and personal career development.