Betatalks the podcast

In this episode, we talk with Lisa Hoving, a big data engineer and Microsoft Data Platform MVP, about the diverse and dynamic world of big data engineering. Lisa shares insights into her day-to-day responsibilities, which span cloud architecture, DevOps, development, and more. We discuss the challenges of working across so many technical domains and the importance of being a 'jack of all trades' in this field. We also explore the evolution of Azure data services, the complexities of navigating the growing ecosystem of tools, and the importance of choosing the right solutions for specific use cases. Additionally, we delve into the different roles within data engineering, from data analysts to data scientists, and explain the value of the medallion architecture in managing data lifecycles. Lisa also opens up about her advocacy for neurodiversity, sharing her personal experiences and the positive impact of creating inclusive workplace cultures.

About this episode, and Lisa Hoving in particular: you can find Lisa on X @lizaard08 and LinkedIn.

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In this episode, Rick and Oscar discuss Azure's evolution from Azure Service Manager to Azure Resource Manager, focusing on the 2024 retirement of classic services and the challenges of migrating to the new ARM model. They highlight the benefits of using tools like Bicep for managing Azure resources, the importance of modernizing applications over simple "lift and shift" migrations, and the guidance provided by the Cloud Adoption Framework. The episode also covers Azure SQL Hyperscale, emphasizing its impact on performance and scalability, showcasing the need for organizations to stay current with modern cloud practices.

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In this episode, Rick and Oscar explore the evolution of Azure compute services, from its early days to the powerful platform it is today. We discuss key milestones like the shift to Azure Resource Manager, which enabled infrastructure as code, and the introduction of Azure Functions, which streamlined compute tasks by focusing on core functionality. The conversation also covers Azure's integration of containers, advancements in Azure App Service, and the challenges of navigating an ever-growing ecosystem. We offer valuable insights into Azure's growth and its impact on developers and organizations.

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In this episode, we talk with Gabrielle Davelaar, a senior AI specialist in the Global Black Belt organization for EMEA at Microsoft. We delve into the rapid evolution of AI adoption in large enterprises, highlighting the challenges around scalability, sustainability, and security. Gabrielle emphasizes the importance of optimizing AI models and infrastructure, rather than simply chasing the latest and greatest hardware, drawing a parallel to the "iPhone effect" that has gripped the AI community. We explore the potential of small language models (SLMs) as a more targeted and accessible alternative to large language models like GPT-3 and GPT-4. We also discuss the need for better security practices around AI, including the idea of "hacking" AI models to identify vulnerabilities. 

About this episode, and Gabrielle Davelaar in particular: you can find Gabrielle on X @gabrielledavel1 and LinkedIn.

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In this episode, we talk with Rick van den Bosch. Yes, our very own host Rick van den Bosch. He zooms in on his role as Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, helping Azure customers succeed through monthly check-ins, issue resolution, and technical guidance. He explains how customer feedback is key in validating and improving Azure services like Bicep. He also shares how the Fast Track program helps customers quickly implement new services like Azure External Identities. Rick highlights innovative ways customers are using AI and Azure to transform productivity. And, he showcases The Ocean Cleanup's important work using Azure services.

About this episode, and Rick van den Bosch in particular: you can find Rick on X @rickvdbosch, LinkedIn, GitHub, or visit his website.

About Betatalks: watch our videos and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

In this episode, we talk with Sophie van den Akker, an IT engineering specialist at van Lanschot Kempen Bank. She shares her experience initially using the Power Platform but hitting limitations that prompted a rebuild in .NET. This sparks a discussion about when low-code or full-code is more suitable. Sophie details her work maintaining various apps across technologies and balancing stakeholder needs. We explore processes for decision-making, such as attending conferences to validate assumptions and learn best practices. Sophie emphasizes starting with data and considering factors like security when choosing tools. We dive into perspectives on challenges in rebuilding applications and strategies for technology selection and professional growth.

About this episode, and Sophie van den Akker in particular: you can find Sophie on LinkedIn or visit her website to read all her interesting blogs and learn more about her.

About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

In this episode, we talk with Sander Molenkamp, a principal cloud architect with over 20 years of experience. We discuss how Microsoft technologies like .NET have shaped his career journey. Sander shares details about his current role managing consultants and hosting community events. We dive into the challenges of predicting event attendance and mitigating high no-show rates. The conversation also touches on Sander's past adventure game projects. He explains how he rebuilt the engine in Blazor and has made the source code available online. We explore opportunities to reuse old code when exploring new technologies like AI. Additional topics include his experiences with different programming languages and tools over the years, and we debate preferences for Mac, Windows, or Linux environments.

About this episode, and Sander Molenkamp in particular: you can find Sander on X @amolenk and GitHub. Watch his videos on his YouTube channel dotnetFlix. Check out bitbash and get your tickets, and a big shout out to Dutch Garrison.

About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

In this episode, we talk with Sam Cogan, a Solution Architect from Willis Towers Watson. We discuss infrastructure as code and cloud automation. Sam shares his perspective on tools like Terraform, Pulumi, and Bicep - explaining why he prefers Pulumi's ability to use programming languages. We also dive into topics like simplifying container management with Azure Container Apps, the evolving state of cloud deployments and DevOps, and best practices for securely automating infrastructure. Beyond the technical discussions, we learn about Sam's work enabling large-scale risk analysis projects in the cloud.

About this episode, and Sam Cogan in particular: you can find Sam on X @samcogan and GitHub. You can also take a look at his website to read more about him and watch his interesting videos.

About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

In this episode, we talk with Karel Zikmund, a principal software engineer at Microsoft. We discuss the technical and soft skills needed to succeed at different career stages. Karel provides insights on hiring practices, performance optimization, code reviews, and adapting to change in the fast-paced tech industry. Regarding performance, he advocates measuring where bottlenecks exist before optimizing. Karel warns against premature optimization or choosing technologies solely based on benchmarks. He also recommends code reviews and demos during interviews to evaluate a candidate’s deep understanding. We emphasize qualities like passion, humility, and continuous learning that help developers adapt to a changing field. Tune in to hear first-hand advice on thriving in this dynamic and evolving industry.

About this episode, and Karel Zikmund in particular: you can find Karel on X @ziki_cz and GitHub. You can also look at his website page to read more about him and his upcoming events.

About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

In this episode, we talk with Pete Gallagher, a full stack manager at Avanade and an Azure and IoT MVP. We discuss the evolution of IoT technology and Microsoft's approach. As IoT has matured, the focus has shifted from standalone hype to integrating these capabilities into broader data platforms. We explore how services like Azure, IoT, Grid, and Azure Arc are now preferred over past favorites like IoT Hub, while ensuring existing investments remain supported. We also highlight the underutilized Event Grid platform and share experiences building scalable solutions leveraging Azure's full suite of services. Additionally, we dive into creative hands-on projects that combine hardware, code, and cloud skills, encouraging listeners to pursue diverse interests in fun IoT endeavors, including areas like robotics and automation.

About this episode, and Pete Gallagher in particular: you can find Pete on X @pete_codes and GitHub. You can also look at his website to read all his interesting blogs, courses, and more.

About Betatalks: have a look at our videos and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.