Maintaining a vibrant and successful open-source project involves more than just lines of code. In this talk, I'll share my experiences as a Principal Software Engineer in the Apicurio community, focusing on the often overlooked aspects of community management. From fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment to managing expectations, we'll dive into the following challenges:

Engagement: Attracting new contributors and maintaining sustained participation.
Communication: Navigating various time zones and ensuring effective information flow.
Conflict Resolution: Managing disagreements and fostering a collaborative environment.
Decision-making: Balancing transparency with the need for clear project direction.
Sustainability: Finding models that encourage long-term health and project growth.

I'll provide insights and real-world examples from Apicurio, offering strategies for overcoming these hurdles and fostering a thriving open-source community. Whether you're a code contributor, project maintainer, or simply passionate about collaborative software development, this talk will highlight the vital work of community management.