If I were you I'd want to really good with plain Python (or Node) before learning a framework, but that's because I'm the kind of person who wants to know how everything works. Once you've written a few CRUD apps you'll wish there was a tool to do some of the common stuff for you, and Django will be waiting for you.
But, if you're not that kind of person it's perfectly OK to jump straight into Django. You'll certainly get further more quickly, even if you won't be able to explain exactly what your code is doing.
I don't think it's that important what technology you decide to learn first, largely because learning new languages / tech stacks gets easier as your frame of reference grows.
What I think is important is sticking to one thing until you have a good grasp of it.
You should look into Sales. Incredibly high earning potential, and one of the few industries where higher education doesn't matter. Feel free to PM if I can help at all.
Can you elaborate here a bit? What are the steps to get into it? I could use some sales skills, I'm currently running a consultancy and keeping the deal flow steady is a pain in my ass.
Sure. Usually for sales you enter in as an entry level role, and then progress based on attainment and success. After a few years it's easily possible to be a Manager, Senior Manager, or even a Director (if you're amazing).
I actually provide one-on-one consulting for tech freelancers and founders, if you're interested.
For what it's worth, I do weekly consulting and coaching with founders who don't have sales experience. If you're interested, we can talk a bit further.
I imagine he meant it to be more lighthearted than it came off, and wouldn't read much into it.
No dress code = dress how you like. If you like to dress up in slacks and a dress shirt, then so be it.
Don't change your preferences for the CEO. Be confident and stand behind your convictions. If he doesn't respect that - you're going to have muuuuch bigger problems.
