Azure & DevOps Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Philip Japikse, an international speaker and Microsoft MVP, shares insights from over 40 years in software development. He reveals why he still loves coding and discusses the critical difference between consulting and long-term support. Philip dives into Agile roles, effective communication, and the importance of embedding engineers in business. He compares rapid software releases to NASCAR strategies and highlights the significance of user experience over fleeting tech trends. Get ready for practical tips and thought-provoking anecdotes!

Join Mark Miller, Chief Architect at Developer Express and mastermind behind CodeRush, as he shares his passion for creating developer tools that enhance productivity. He discusses the advantages of CodeRush AI, comparing it to GitHub Copilot, and sheds light on the future of AI in coding, emphasizing increased speed and accuracy. Mark showcases innovative features like voice commands for code creation and AI's ability to auto-modify code. His insights bridge software architecture and cognitive science, making tech jargon accessible and engaging!

Robert C. Martin, affectionately known as Uncle Bob, has been a mentor to countless software engineers since 1970 and is a co-author of the Agile Manifesto. He shares invaluable advice for newcomers, emphasizing the importance of mastering core programming skills and cautions about over-reliance on AI tools. The impact of AI on developers is examined, alongside a discussion about evolving software practices and education. Uncle Bob critiques traditional methods and the skills gap in tech, advocating for practical experience over theoretical training.

Jimmy Bogard, the mastermind behind AutoMapper and MediatR, shares his journey in the .NET open-source realm. He discusses what fuels his passion for coding and the strategic move to commercialize his libraries while maintaining a dual licensing model. Dive into the world of software architecture as he explains how MediatR organizes code by use case and how AutoMapper simplifies object mapping. Jimmy also touches on the importance of intentional API design and balances his roles as a consultant and open-source maintainer.

Steve Smith, a renowned software architect and entrepreneur from NimblePros, discusses the pivotal role of software architecture in development. He emphasizes the importance of lightweight documentation and design principles like KISS for clarity. Steve also dives into the significance of design patterns in managing complexity and enhancing code functionality. Additionally, he shares insights on the impact of AI tools in coding, balancing efficiency with the need for human oversight. His mentorship efforts at DevBetter.com aim to empower the next generation of developers.

Bob Ward, a Principal Architect for Microsoft Azure Data, shares insights from his 31 years at Microsoft, focusing on SQL Server 2025. He discusses debunking myths around SQL Server's cloud readiness and developer-friendliness. Bob highlights new features improving developer productivity, including AI tools like GitHub Copilot, real-time analytics, and enhanced testing practices. He emphasizes the significance of community engagement and responsible AI use, all while encouraging developers to embrace modern database practices for improved reliability.

Michael Washington, an accomplished ASP.NET and C# programmer and founder of BlazorData.net, shares his journey from developing early applications to launching innovative projects. He introduces the Personal Data Warehouse, an open-source tool for effective data management. The discussion highlights the three data phases: collection, transformation, and reporting, emphasizing how transformed data drives decision-making. Michael also explores AI's role in data processing and warns against over-reliance on it, advocating for human insight in critical fields.

Rockford Lhotka, Vice President of Strategy at Xebia Microsoft Services, is a prominent software architect and the creator of the CSLA .NET framework. He shares insights from his early career, emphasizing the significance of understanding user needs in software design. The conversation dives into the influence of AI on architecture and how tech advancements reshape development practices. Lhotka also discusses the value of networking for career growth and the necessity of adapting mindsets to embrace emerging technologies in the ever-evolving software landscape.

Scott Hunter, Vice President of Product for Azure Developer Experience at Microsoft, shares insights from his tech journey and the evolution of .NET. He dives into AI’s revolutionary role in software development, discussing how tools like ChatGPT transform coding practices. Scott highlights the importance of enhancing efficiency with Site Reliability Engineering agents and customizable solutions. He also emphasizes breaking down complex tasks using AI-driven prompts and the need for continuous developer feedback to refine AI tools for better productivity.

Scott has spent over 25 years in the IT field, working in disciplines such as systems architecture, software development, team growth, and entrepreneurship. He was a Microsoft MVP for 12 years in ASP.NET and IIS. He’s co-authored two books (IIS 7 and IIS 8 Professional), is a Pluralsight author, and has spoken at various conferences, code camps, and user groups. He's now shifted into the AI space, building AI solutions and supporting others in their AI journey. Scott co-founded a new startup, Kitchen Copilot, using all the new GenAI tech to help people cook more at home and eat healthier.   Topics of Discussion: [1:34] Scott’s career journey and how Kitchen Copilot originated. [7:27] More about Kitchen Copilot’s features. [9:35] How Kitchen helps with meal planning and recipe discovery for all levels of at-home chefs. [13:17] The technical process of importing recipes. [15:58] Using Microsoft Document intelligence to read handwriting and take screenshots of cookbook recipes. [17:13] Deployed pieces of the application. [20:43] E-mail import and queuing system. [23:32] Choice of LLM models including Groq. [29:37] Automated testing approach for LLM-based applications. [31:36] Hosting details.   Mentioned in this Episode: Clear Measure Way Architect Forum Software Engineer Forum Programming with Palermo — New Video Podcast! Email us at programming@palermo.net. Clear Measure, Inc. (Sponsor) .NET DevOps for Azure: A Developer’s Guide to DevOps Architecture the Right Way, by Jeffrey Palermo Flowise Attention is all you need Kitchen Copilot Make Perplexity Claude Groq About Groq Scott on LinkedIn Kitchen Copilot AI Generator   Want to Learn More? Visit AzureDevOps.Show for show notes and additional episodes.