The Real Python Podcast

Kyle Stratis, a machine learning consultant and author of 'AI Agents with MCP,' discusses the pitfalls of converting REST APIs to Model Context Protocol (MCP). He emphasizes the importance of avoiding automated tools that compromise an AI agent's context. Steven Gruppetta joins to share insights on Python learning outcomes for beginners. The conversation covers the contrasting interaction models of REST and MCP, the significance of well-defined workflows for agents, and the potential of memory-enabled agents to enhance creativity and developer productivity.

Christopher Trudeau, a frequent contributor on Python topics, returns to discuss crucial choices for hosting Python applications. He compares platforms like Railway and Heroku, as well as free options such as Python Anywhere. Trudeau also shares insights on the recent Python documentary, spotlighting its historical significance and key moments in Python's evolution. Additionally, they dive into ways to optimize Python performance and explore exciting community projects like a music library manager and a color science tool, making it a rich conversation for developers.

Jodie Burchell, an AI tooling specialist passionate about learning C and CUDA programming, shares insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of large language models. They discuss the GPT-5 release and the industry's struggle with diminishing returns in scaling. Jodie highlights flaws in model assessments and the complexities of measuring AI intelligence. The conversation also touches on economic factors influencing job markets and the challenges developers face with AI integration and productivity in software development.

Discover how mixin classes enhance code reuse in Python through multiple inheritance. Dive into challenges with async programming and learn about the new capabilities in CPython's JIT builds. Explore the latest trends from the 2024 Python Developer Survey and hear about innovations like the Leopards library for efficient querying. Plus, get insights on optimizing Python practices and the exciting new video course on object-oriented programming principles. Engage with the vibrant Python community that's shaping the future of development!

Travis Oliphant, the creator of NumPy and SciPy, shares his pivotal journey from biomedical imaging to leading the scientific Python community. He discusses the development of powerful open-source tools that data scientists rely on daily. Travis dives into the upcoming Python documentary, community engagement, and the challenges of sustaining open-source projects. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and education, while reflecting on healthier lifestyle choices and aspirations for the future.

Christopher Trudeau, a recurring guest and author of 'Django in Action,' dives into the nuanced battle of inheritance versus composition in object-oriented programming. He discusses a thought-provoking article that uncovers the deeper reasons behind choosing one over the other. The conversation also touches on recent Python community updates and intriguing projects like converting HTML to markdown and a library for audio processing. Plus, Trudeau highlights why understanding dunder methods is essential for effective Python coding.

Jeroen Janssens and Thijs Nieuwdorp, authors of 'Python Polars: The Definitive Guide', share their journey with Polars, a powerful DataFrame library for Python. They discuss its advantages over pandas, the significant speed improvements they've encountered, and the transition from R to Python. The duo elaborates on the differences between lazy and eager APIs, offering practical tips for users. Their insights on collaborative writing highlight the importance of community in technical literature and learning, making this a fascinating listen for data enthusiasts.

Christopher Trudeau returns with insights from PyCoder's Weekly, tackling the applicability of traditional design patterns in Python. He reveals that many patterns from the Gang of Four are often unnecessary in Python’s dynamic world. The conversation highlights more Pythonic solutions to common problems while emphasizing the new features in Python 3.14, including template strings. Trudeau also explores the importance of understanding built-in exceptions and the concept of 'expert generalists' in tech, advocating for versatility in coding skills.

Maria Ashna, the inaugural PyPI Support Specialist at the Python Software Foundation, shares insights from her journey in supporting the Python Package Index. She discusses tackling account recovery backlogs and the complexities of PEP 541 requests. Maria emphasizes the importance of curiosity and willing to ask questions within the programming community. Highlighting her creative background, she challenges stereotypes about who can contribute to tech, advocating for diversity and inclusivity in programming. Her passion shines through as she prepares for upcoming talks at PyCon and EuroPython.

Christopher Trudeau, a contributor to PyCoder's Weekly, dives deep into the real-world performance of algorithms versus Big O expectations. He discusses how Python can compete with compiled languages like Go through practical profiling. Listeners learn about fascinating topics such as detecting vowels in strings, the ordered nature of Python dictionaries, and the significance of using enums for better code organization. Trudeau also highlights innovative community projects and recent developments in the Python ecosystem, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of programming.