Azure & DevOps Podcast

Burke Holland, Principal Developer Advocate at Microsoft, shares insights from his journey in developer advocacy, including his pivotal shift from developer to evangelist. He delves into the rapid evolution of software development and the transformative impact of AI, particularly GitHub Copilot's various modes. Holland discusses the importance of context and the challenges of AI's unpredictability in coding. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for developers to keep pace with new tools and the critical role they play in managing AI-driven coding processes.

Ted Neward, a Senior Distinguished Engineer at Capital One, brings a wealth of experience in high-scale enterprise systems and deep expertise in Java and .NET. He discusses his career journey and the vital need for simplicity in software architecture. Ted explores the impact of generative AI on development, emphasizing the importance of not relying solely on AI for innovation. He also delves into the evolution of programming languages, the significance of writing skills for developers, and the philosophical foundations that underpin effective software design.

Joe Cuevas, a senior software engineer from San Antonio, shares his journey from a VB.NET class igniting his passion for programming to his current role focusing on front-end development. He discusses the significance of testing immediately after coding, the evolution of software architecture, and the impact of AI tools like Codex on programming. Joe also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and mentorship for junior developers, providing key insights on dependency injection and the future of coding practices.

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.