The sql_squared Podcast!!!

The sql_squared Podcast!!!

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The sql_squared Podcast!!! episodes

  • sql_squared: Open Data Engineering w/ Alex Merced

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    David Morgan-Gumm speaks with Alex Merced, Head of DevRel at Dremio, tech educator, and author, about the open source foundations behind modern data engineering. They break down Apache governance, Apache Arrow, Iceberg, Polaris, and how these pieces fit together in lakehouse architectures. Alex also shares his path into technical writing, community building, and why AI is changing how creators and data teams work.

    Key topics

    • In this episode: the difference between open source and genuinely open governance, and why Apache projects matter for shared standards
    • Alex explains how the Apache Software Foundation works, including incubation, top level projects, and why community control matters more than corporate control
    • The conversation compares Apache Foundation governance with the Linux Foundation model and why each solves a different problem
    • Alex walks through the stack behind Dremio, including Apache Drill, Apache Arrow, and Apache Calcite
    • We discuss why Apache Arrow matters as a standard in-memory data format and how it reduces translation overhead between engines
    • Alex explains Apache Iceberg as a table format that tracks table versions, metadata, manifests, and file statistics for file skipping
    • The episode covers Apache Polaris as a catalogue and governance layer for Iceberg tables, including access control and vendor-neutral metadata management
    • David and Alex discuss how lakehouse architecture lets teams switch engines without moving data or redefining permissions from scratch
    • Alex shares how federated querying in Dremio can help bridge older systems like SQL Server, Synapse, Redshift, and Snowflake while migrating toward Iceberg
    • The episode closes with Alex’s origin story, his path from comics and finance into developer advocacy, and why writing books became a natural extension of teaching

    Timestamps

    00:00 - Introduction to SQL Squared and guest welcome
    03:46 - What Apache means in open source governance
    06:06 - How Apache projects become community driven
    07:59 - Community over code and why that matters
    09:52 - Dremio’s roots in Arrow, Drill, and Calcite
    10:21 - Hadoop, MapReduce, and the need for better query engines
    11:46 - Why Apache Arrow standardizes in-memory data
    13:55 - Where Arrow shows up in modern tools
    15:22 - Why Iceberg emerged from Hadoop and Parquet limitations
    17:10 - From folders of files to tables with metadata
    18:10 - How Hudi, Iceberg, and Delta Lake solve versioning differently
    19:07 - Iceberg metadata trees and manifest lists
    20:04 - File skipping and why it speeds up analytics
    23:26 - Iceberg as the table, Polaris as the catalogue
    24:24 - Polaris as vendor-neutral phone book and governance layer
    25:47 - Querying the same Iceberg tables from different engines
    26:47 - Why lakehouse architecture is future-proof
    28:12 - AI makes data silos harder to live with
    30:00 - How Dremio helps migrate without a hard cutover
    31:28 - Table-by-table migration with views and abstraction
    33:47 - Why the role of DevRel matters in data infrastructure
    34:32 - Alex’s early tech roots, from GeoCities to RPG Maker
    36:27 - Years in finance, training, and building a personal brand
    38:20 - Boot camp teaching, video content, and the move into DevRel
    41:41 - Why Alex started writing an Iceberg book
    43:10 - The timing of the Iceberg book and rising industry interest
    45:37 - Tabular, Polaris, and the catalogue gap
    48:03 - Snowflake, Databricks, and the open catalogue race
    50:15 - Alex’s YouTube channels and weekly newsletters
    51:10 - AI, creativity, and the tension for working artists
    54:39 - Using AI as a tool, not a shortcut
    55:53 - What makes strong technical communities
    58:36 - Different community types and how programming should match the audience
    62:05 - Closing thoughts on community and open ecosystems

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    1 hr 1 min
  • Evolution of Database Infrastructure & Chaos Engineering w/ Andrew Pruski - sql_squared

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    Episode Summary

    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast!!!, we're joined by our special guest, Andrew Pruski, for a deep dive into the evolution of database infrastructure and modernization. As an expert in SQL Server containers and a Field Solution Architect at Everpure, Andrew shares his unique insights on deploying, managing, and breaking databases in modern environments. This conversation is centered around our guest's experiences and knowledge. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of containerization versus traditional VMs , practical tips for leveraging the new AI and performance features in SQL Server 2025 , and a fresh perspective on chaos engineering and resiliency testing. This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in modern data development, high availability, and disaster recovery. 

    Guest Information

    • Name: Andrew Pruski  
    • Bio: Andrew is a Field Solution Architect at Everpure and a passionate advocate for SQL Server containerization. He regularly speaks at tech conferences, recently presenting on Kubernetes in Vilnius and SQL Server 2025 features at SQLBits. 
    • Website: dbafromthecold.com
    • Social Media:
      • BlueSky: @dbafromthecold.com
      • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewpruski/

    Resources Mentioned

    • Principles of Chaos: principlesofchaos.org - A great resource defining the discipline of experimenting upon systems to see how they react to failure. 
    • SQL Server Operator on GitHub: An open-source operator built by Andrew's colleague to deploy availability groups for SQL Server natively on Kubernetes. 
    • Andrew's GitHub Repo: Contains all the demo code, prerequisites, and slides for testing SQL Server 2025 features on your own instances. https://github.com/dbafromthecold
    • dbatools: Mentioned as an excellent utility to have ready for generating and automating database restores during a disaster scenario. 

    #SQLServer, #DatabaseInfrastructure, #Containers, #Kubernetes, #SQLServer2025, #ArtificialIntelligence, #ChaosEngineering, #DataHorrorStories 

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    1 hr 9 min
  • sql_squared: Github Universe - The future of Agentic Development w/ Sergio Sisternes

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    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast!!!, we're joined by our special guest, Sergio Sisternes, for a deep dive into the latest announcements from GitHub Universe and the rapidly evolving world of AI-driven development.

    As the Director of Technology Solutions for Microsoft Azure at EPAM, Sergio shares his unique insights fresh off the plane from Silicon Valley, giving us a direct debrief on the tech that is rewriting the future. This conversation is centered around moving beyond the hype of AI to understand the practical shifts in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).

    Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the difference between standard AI and Agentic AI, practical tips for building effective Model Context Protocols (MCPs), and a fresh perspective on how junior developers and architects must adapt their mindsets from "what" to "how". This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in Cloud Native development, Copilot strategies, and surviving the productivity "arms race".

    Guest Information
    Name: Sergio Sisternes
    Bio: Sergio is the Director of Technology Solutions for Microsoft Azure at EPAM, where he leads high-performance teams and architects delivering cloud and AI solutions for the future.
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sesispla/

    00:00 Intro 01:58 The GitHub Universe Vibe: Agent HQ & Mission Control 05:17 Why Code Quality Matters Before AI Adoption 10:37 Explained: Machine Learning vs. Deep Learning vs. GenAI 15:07 The Mindset Shift: Moving from "What" to "How" 21:00 3 Ways to Optimize Copilot: Instructions, Prompts & Agents 28:33 The Right Tool for the Job: Understanding MCP 38:18 Can Junior Developers Survive the AI Era? 44:15 Becoming a "100x Engineer" 47:53 The Global Productivity "Arms Race" 52:07 Outro

    #data #ai #github #softwareengineering #podcast #azure #agents #sdlc #cloud 

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    54 min
  • The Future of Data & Building Inclusive Tech Communities w/ James Reeves

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    Episode Summary

    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast, we're joined by our special guest, James Reeves , for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of data engineering platforms , the importance of cost efficiency in the cloud , and the critical role of neurodiversity and equality in building strong, innovative tech teams.

    As an expert with a career spanning roles like SQL Server Consultant , Data Warehouse Architect , Data Engineer , and his current role as an AI Engineer at Brabners , James shares his unique insights on the pros and cons of platforms like Databricks and Snowflake , strategies for managing cloud costs , and the future of SQL Server.

    Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of key data platform differences , practical tips for avoiding common cloud billing mistakes , and a fresh perspective on the importance of neurodiversity and supporting junior developers. This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in data engineering , cloud architecture , and building more human-centric tech teams.

    Guest Information

    • Name: James Reeves 
    • Bio: James's career is a masterclass in the evolution of data roles. He's been a SQL Server Consultant , a Data Warehouse Architect , a Data Engineer , an Analytics Engineer , and a Director of Analytics. This incredible breadth of experience gives him a unique perspective on the industry , which he now applies in his current role as an AI Engineer at Brabners. Beyond his technical chops, he's a huge voice in the data community and a passionate advocate for building inclusive tech spaces.
    • Social Media:
      • LinkedIn: @sqlcestrian

    Resources Mentioned

    • SQLBits Conference: [https://www.sqlbits.com] - A major UK data conference discussed by James and David. Use code sqlsquared2026 for a discount on your ticket for the 2026 event in Newport.

    #dataengineering, #databricks, #snowflake, #sqlserver, #cloudcosts, #neurodiversity, #techcareers, #DEI, #dataplatforms, #sql 

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    57 min
  • Everything SQLBits 2026 w/ Simon Sabin

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    Episode Summary 

    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast!!!, we're joined by our special guest, Simon Sabin , for a deep dive into SQLBits 2026. As the founder of SQLBits , one of Europe's largest and most-loved data conferences , Simon shares his unique insights on the event's core mission: to connect people and help them learn.

    This conversation is centered around our guest's experiences and knowledge. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of what makes the SQLBits community so special , practical details on the upcoming 2026 event at the ICC Newport in Wales , and a fresh perspective on hot topics like AI, SQL Server 2025, and Microsoft Fabric. This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in the data industry and community events.

    Guest Information 

    • Name: Simon Sabin 
    • Bio: Simon Sabin is the founder of SQLBits , one of the largest and most-loved data conferences in Europe. With 30 years of experience in data , Simon helped start SQLBits to connect and educate data professionals , fostering a strong community in the UK and Europe.

    Resources Mentioned 

    • SQLBits Website: https://www.sqlbits.com - Head here to learn more and get your tickets for SQLBits 2026.
    • Discount Code: Use code sqlsquared2026 for a discount on your paid-day conference tickets.

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    44 min
  • Evolving Roles: A Journey to Data Expert w/Simon Frazer

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    Summary 

    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast!!!, we're joined by our special guest, Simon Frazer, for a deep dive into the journey from software developer to data expert. As an expert in SQL Server performance, optimization, and security, Simon shares his unique insights on the evolving roles within the tech industry. This conversation is centered around our guest's experiences, from his early days in software development to becoming a production DBA and consultant. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the differences between development and DBA roles, practical tips for performance tuning using tools like the Brent Ozar Consultant Toolkit, and a fresh perspective on the value of community engagement through conferences. This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in database administration, career transitions in tech, and SQL Server optimization. 

    Guest Information 

    • Name: Simon Frazer 
    • Bio: Simon Frazer is a Senior Database Administrator at Medivet and the owner of his own SQL Server consultancy, Simon Fraser Limited. He specializes in performance, optimization, and security, with a background that began in software development before transitioning into the data space. 
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-frazer/

    Resources Mentioned

    • Brent Ozar Consultant Toolkit: https://www.brentozar.com/ - A set of scripts (part of the First Responder Kit) that quickly check SQL Server health and performance, simplifying troubleshooting for DBAs and consultants.
    • Azure SQL Managed Instance: A managed cloud database service discussed for its ability to automate tasks like patching and backups, freeing up DBAs to focus on higher-value work like performance tuning.
    • Data Scotland: A free, community-led data conference in Scotland, highlighted for its high-quality sessions and welcoming community vibe.
    • SQLBits: A major UK-based data platform conference, known for attracting speakers and attendees from around the world.

     #SQLServer, #DatabaseAdministration, #DBA, #PerformanceTuning, #SoftwareDevelopment, #BrentOzar, #DataCommunity, #SQLBits, #DataScotland, #ManagedInstance, #CareerJourney, #QueryOptimization, #Indexes 

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    46 min
  • Agile and Innovative Data Use in Recruitment w/ Mike Hodson

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    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast!!!, we're joined by our special guest, Mike Hodson, for a deep dive into data development, Agile methodologies, and the evolving role of data in the recruitment industry. As a seasoned tech leader and Scrum Master with a passion for data, Mike shares his unique insights on adopting Agile processes, leveraging data for business success, and the future of AI in development.

    Bio: Mike Hodson is a tech leader and Scrum Master with a strong passion for data. He began his career with a maths degree and a love for numbers, falling into a data management role that he grew to love. With over 18 years of experience, Mike has progressed from a data manager and SQL developer to a certified Scrum Master, focusing on Agile methodologies to bridge the gap between development and business needs.

    Social Media

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masterofscrum/

    Key Topics & Timestamps

    • 00:00 - Introduction to Data and Tech Leadership
    • 01:40 - Mike's Career Journey and Passion for Data
    • 07:11 - Current Role and Responsibilities in Data Management
    • 10:56 - Understanding Agile and Scrum Methodologies
    • 12:01 - Benefits and Challenges of Scrum in Development
    • 27:53 - Leveraging Data in Recruitment
    • 34:50 - Innovative Uses of Data in Recruitment Processes
    • 35:25 - Leveraging CRM for Recruitment Opportunities
    • 37:55 - AI in Recruitment: Enhancing Efficiency and Context
    • 43:34 - Data Security and Ethical Considerations in Recruitment
    • 48:12 - Quickfire Round: Insights and Personal Preferences
    • 53:03 - The Future of Data: Trends and Predictions

    Resources Mentioned

    • NotebookLM: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/blog/the-data-flow-3/notebooklm-the-perfect-note-taking-and-research-companion-7 - David's blog post on a Google product that uses AI to analyze and generate content from uploaded documentation.
    • Model Context Protocols (MCPs): A discussion on an innovative AI concept that acts as a bridge between an AI agent and other data sources, with a C# implementation for SQL Server.

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    1 hr 7 min
  • Mastering Azure Migrations & DevOps w/ Elliot Leighton-Woodruff

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    Episode Summary 

    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast, we're joined by our special guest, Elliot Leighton-Woodruff, for a deep dive into Azure cloud migrations. As an expert Principal Architect specializing in Azure, Elliot shares his unique insights on moving beyond simple "lift and shift" projects to truly modernize applications and infrastructure for maximum return on investment. 

    This conversation is centered around our guest's extensive experiences and knowledge. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the "Five Rs" of cloud migration, practical tips for avoiding common cost pitfalls and managing services effectively, and a fresh perspective on the "build vs. buy" dilemma for software solutions. This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in cloud architecture, DevOps, and data platform strategy. 

    Guest Information 

    • Name: Elliot Leighton-Woodruff 
    • Bio: Elliot Leighton-Woodruff is a Principal Architect and Azure expert with 15 years of industry experience. His journey has taken him from infrastructure engineering and data center fit-outs to specializing in Office 365 and now focusing on Azure application modernization for the past several years. Elliot is a strong advocate for Infrastructure as Code, applying an 80/20 rule to automation to help customers maximize their cloud investment. 
    • Website: https://www.synextra.co.uk/
    • Social Media: 
      • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliottlw/

    Resources Mentioned 

    • The Five Rs of Migration: A framework mentioned by Elliot for classifying application migration strategies (Rehost, Refactor, Rearchitect, Rebuild, Replace) to ensure you choose the right approach. 
    • Terraform: An Infrastructure as Code tool discussed for its ability to automate, standardize, and efficiently deploy cloud resources, reducing human error. 
    • Northern Azure User Group: The local Manchester-area tech community where the host and guest met, recommended for networking and learning. 

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    1 hr 4 min
  • sql_squared: Ep. 1 - Alex Dean & Introduction

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    In episode 1 of the sql_squared podcast, we welcome Alex Dean, Head of Application Delivery at Vaultex UK. Alex is a long term friend and a former supportive manager of mine. He has many years under his belt working with cutting edge data technologies, and leading teams delivering complex data warehouse and BI integrations. Alex is passionate data and prides himself in creating highly efficient development functions.

    In our first ever episode, Alex talks to me about data architecture in the cloud and what it's like managing people and projects in the development space.

    Visit the website here: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/home

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    55 min
  • sql_squared: Ep. 4 - The Data Community & Database Testing w/ Lee Brownhill

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    In this episode of The sql_squared Podcast, we're joined by our special guest, Lee Brownhill, for a deep dive into unit testing for databases, the importance of community, and the future of data platforms. As an expert with nearly 20 years of experience as a DBA and cloud consultant , Lee shares his unique insights on implementing the T-SQLT framework to create robust SQL unit tests. This conversation is centered around our guest's experiences and knowledge. 

    Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of how to get started with T-SQLT , practical tips for overcoming resistance to testing from development teams and leadership , and a fresh perspective on the value of continuous learning and giving back to the data community. This is a can't-miss episode for anyone interested in SQL Server development, improving code quality, and growing their career in the data space. 

    Guest Information

    • Name: Lee Brownhill 
    • Bio: Lee Brownhill is a seasoned data professional with nearly two decades of experience in the IT industry. Starting in general IT support, he quickly specialized in SQL Server, moving from a production DBA to a hybrid developer-DBA role focused on scaling applications for enterprise customers. Now, as a DBA Consultant, he helps clients optimize their data workloads in Azure and AWS. Lee is also a Redgate Community Ambassador and a passionate advocate for community involvement and continuous learning. 
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leebrownhill/
    • Blog: https://www.leebrownhill.com/

    Resources Mentioned

    • T-SQLT Framework: https://tSQLt.org/ - The open-source unit testing framework for SQL Server discussed in the episode. 
    • Redgate Software: https://www.red-gate.com/ - Provider of tools like SQL Test, SQL Prompt, and SQL Monitor that aid database professionals. 
    • SQLBits: https://sqlbits.com/ - The data platform conference where Lee will be volunteering. 
    • Finding Data Friends Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@findingdatafriends - A community-focused podcast where both David and Lee have been guests. 
    • Redgate's Simple Talk: https://www.red-gate.com/simple-talk/

    Support the show

    Support the show!

    Enjoying The sql_squared Podcast? The best way to support us is by subscribing to our YouTube channel! 

    • Watch & Subscribe on YouTube
    • Listen on other platforms: Apple Podcasts | Spotify
    • Leave a Review: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts or leave a like and comment on YouTube. 
    • Share: Know someone who would love this episode? Go ahead and share a link! 

    The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends that shape the data landscape, from SQL Server and cloud platforms to AI and developer productivity. Join us as we chat with experts from the community to help you learn, grow, and make the right decisions on your data journey. 

    • Website: https://www.sqlsquared.co.uk/
    • Twitter/X: @sql_squared
    • LinkedIn: @sql_squared
    • Email: [email protected] 
    58 min

About The sql_squared Podcast!!!

From the publisher's feed

About The sql_squared Podcast

The sql_squared podcast is your guide to navigating the ever-evolving world of data. We go beyond the code to explore the tools, techniques, and trends…