Online forums have played a huge role in shaping internet communities over the years, and behind many of those communities are passionate developers and resource creators who help keep them running. One of those people is Cory, the owner of jCodes Resources, a site dedicated to providing themes, codes, and helpful resources for users of the Jcink forum platform.

Cory has been involved with forums for many years, dating back to the days of ZetaBoards and Zathyus Networks. In this interview, he shares how jCodes began, how forums have evolved over time, and why he still enjoys contributing to the community today.

What inspired you to create jCodes Resources?

Coming from the days of Zathyus Networks (InvisionFree/ZetaBoards), I didn’t want to leave my legacy of countless codes and themes that I worked on. I wanted to find a new home for most of them, which led me to a similar service and to the creation of jCodes.

How did you first get started using Jcink forum hosting?

I started by creating a test board to see how the system functions. After becoming a little acquainted with the software, I decided to start my own resource board on the network to port many conversions of my code and the themes I’ve worked on to Jcink. I’ve heard of Jcink off and on during my time on ZetaBoards, but I never did anything with the software because I was an avid user of ZetaBoards at the time.

What was your forum experience like before launching jCodes?

I owned my own resource board on ZetaBoards, known as “Big Boards.” We had various resources, links to other resources, services, and a community to participate in. I was a long-time supporter of Zathyus Networks, where I created JavaScript codes, coded themes, and provided support to fellow users on the service via my board and the official support board.

What made you stick with Jcink over other forum platforms?

Jcink is free and is based on an older version of Invision Power Board, just like InvisionFree was, so it’s what I could best familiarize myself with.

How has your journey as a forum owner changed over the years?

I’ve gained more knowledge over the years, and my spelling and grammar have improved, and I’ve made fewer mistakes.

What motivated you to start sharing resources with the Jcink community?

As mentioned, I didn’t want all my hard work on the Zathyus Networks platform to go to waste. I wanted somewhere to continue my legacy. Between the knowledge I’ve gained through programming and message boards, I wanted somewhere to call home.

In your opinion, how have forums changed compared to how they were years ago?

Obviously, they’re not as active as they once were due to the rise of social media and apps that make it easier to connect. Many forum software are much more advanced due to technological advances we’ve seen throughout the years. Due to less activity, you see more familiar faces across platforms than a wide range of different users.

Do you think forums still have a place on the internet today alongside social media?

I think there will always be people who prefer a “community-like” atmosphere and not follow the masses. Forums can often feel more peaceful, more civilized, and a way to get noticed for your statements than being easily dismissed on social media because of the massive infrastructure.

What are some things you miss about the “old days” of forums?

More activity would seem like the obvious answer to anyone. But I also miss the simplicity of it all, when people depended on message boards as the primary means of communication, rather than massive social networks or social apps like Discord. It felt more “community-like” than trying to obtain the most likes/followers/upvotes.

What are some improvements you’ve seen in forums over time?

Many forum software have adapted to newer technologies over the years, such as PWA/mobile enhancements, having different ways to log in through social accounts, and newer advancements in coding have made it possible to enhance the style and dynamic structure of forums.

What keeps you motivated to continue running jCodes Resources?

Boredom in the household is part of it, but I admire a place where I can build resources to the greatest of lengths possible for those who want to enhance their forum. I feel my knowledge should be shared to better other communities.

Have you ever run or been staff on other forums before jCodes?

I’ve run a small handful of boards in my lifetime, Big Boards and jCodes being the most successful. I’ve tried running a few Yu-Gi-Oh/TCG boards, but never had much luck getting them off the ground. I was a staff member on various forums back in the days of Zathyus Networks. Since then, I think I’ve only been a staff member on a couple of webmaster forums.

What advice would you give someone starting their first forum today?

Don’t give up so easily. Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day. It takes time and consistency to build and run a successful forum.

Outside of forums and web development, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy?

I also enjoy fantasy media like The Lord of the Rings and A Song of Ice and Fire. I like to play Pokémon GO daily to build up my Stardust to power up Pokémon, complete research, and do raids.

I have 10 games on my iPhone, but the primary ones I play are Pokémon GO, Pokémon TCG Pocket, and Call of Duty. I’ve enjoyed collecting Yu‑Gi‑Oh! Trading Card Game cards over the years, and I was a big fan of dueling in the past, but my collecting days are slowly coming to a close as money shifts to other priorities. I also like exploring new iOS apps from time to time.

What are your future plans for jCodes Resources?

My plans for jCodes have always been pretty much the same: to keep expanding the resources and offering concise support to fellow board owners across the network.

Cory’s journey highlights the passion that has kept forum communities alive for decades. While the internet has evolved with social media and instant messaging platforms, dedicated spaces like jCodes Resources continue to support forum owners who value customization, creativity, and community. As long as people want a more focused and community-driven environment online, developers like Cory will continue to play an important role in keeping forums thriving.