The Python Show cover image

The Python Show

30 - Effective Python with Brett Slatkin

Feb 15, 2024
Brett Slatkin, a software engineer at Google and author of Effective Python, shares his journey from C++ to Python, emphasizing the importance of mentorship. He discusses his favorite and least favorite Python modules while revealing exciting upcoming Python 3.1 features. The conversation also touches on LLVM Lite's impact on Python, critiques of static typing, and the role of generative AI in creativity and programming. Slatkin highlights community learning through shared coding failures, promoting clarity and confidence among developers.
41:49

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Brett Slatkin emphasized the importance of balancing the use of advanced Python features like typing and Async IO to maintain code simplicity and reliability.
  • He discussed his passion for writing, detailing the challenges and insights gained while revising 'Effective Python' for its second edition to reflect the evolving language.

Deep dives

Brett Slatkin's Journey into Programming

Brett Slatkin, a software engineer at Google, began programming at a young age due to his fascination with computers and games. Initially exposed to languages like Logo and BASIC, he eventually delved into C and C++, which helped him understand programming structures and logic. His interest in networking and scalable systems led him to Google in 2005, where he was quickly immersed in Python for infrastructure orchestration. Despite his lack of familiarity with Python at the time, the experience taught him to appreciate Python as a primary programming language both professionally and personally.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode