Azure & DevOps Podcast

Matt Gordon: Database DevOps - Episode 313

Sep 2, 2024

In this conversation, Matt Gordon, a Microsoft Data Platform MVP with a rich background in SQL Server and data technologies, shares his professional journey, including overcoming a childhood stutter to become a speaker. He discusses the evolution of database tools, highlighting the shift to Flyway and the importance of effective monitoring tools. Matt also emphasizes best practices for database change management in DevOps and the impact of ORM on performance. His insights into embracing microservices and adapting to various database sizes make for an engaging listen.

40:42

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Episode guests

Matt Gordon

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Matt Gordon emphasizes the importance of supportive environments for personal growth, particularly in cultivating effective public speaking skills within consulting careers.

He highlights the necessity of a cultural shift in organizations to prioritize disciplined change management practices in database operations for successful DevOps integration.

Deep dives

Transitioning to Consulting and Public Speaking

Transitioning to consulting nine years ago marked a significant turning point in Matt Gordon's career, thanks to a supportive manager who encouraged him to speak publicly despite his initial fears. His early experiences with public speaking were challenging; numerous technical issues during his first presentation left him feeling defeated, yet he found encouragement in realizing that the audience was rooting for him. This realization transformed his perspective on public speaking, turning it from a source of anxiety into an enjoyable opportunity to teach and connect with others. Matt credits the supportive community around him as instrumental in his growth, emphasizing how vital it is in consulting roles to have an encouraging work environment for personal and professional advancement.

Intro

2min

Navigating Challenges in Data Architecture

12min

Evolution of Database Tools: Redgate's Shift to Flyway

2min

Optimizing Database Performance

5min

Navigating Database Monitoring and Management

17min

Engineering Disciplines and Collaborative Success

2min

Matt is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and has worked with SQL Server since 2000. He is the leader of the Lexington, KY Data Technology Group and a frequent domestic and international community speaker. He's an IDERA ACE alumnus and Redgate Community Ambassador. His original data professional role was in database development, which quickly evolved into query tuning work that further evolved into being a DBA in the healthcare realm. He has supported several critical systems utilizing SQL Server and managed dozens of live site SQL Server implementations. As a Microsoft Lead Data Architect at Centric Consulting, he works with customers large, medium, and small to migrate to the cloud, make their data estate operate efficiently, and find the right tools and solutions within the Microsoft Data Platform.

Topics of Discussion:

[3:08] Matt’s career journey and overcoming a fear of public speaking.

[5:42] Changes and consistencies in working with SQL Server over the years.

[7:18] Advice on the process and tools for database change management and DevOps.

[12:29] Recommendations for database monitoring and observability.

[19:30] Specific monitoring tool recommendations and their pros and cons.

[24:04] The role of ORMs and their impact on database performance.

[30:59] Thoughts on the evolution of microservices and database architecture patterns.

[36:55] Considerations for working with small versus large database sizes.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Clear Measure Way

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