Breaktime Tech Talks

Ep30: SDN update entity + Knowledge Graph ebook

Dive into my latest experiences with Spring Data Neo4j, specifically exploring new methods for updating nodes. After revisiting my 2023 blog post on this topic, I share insights on custom Cypher queries and projections. I also discuss the challenges of finding good examples for update operations.
In addition, Neo4j announced the release of The Developer's Guide: How to Build a Knowledge Graph, a new ebook I co-authored. Hear my challenges of writing the book, including finding the right dataset for graph queries, working through product updates during the writing process, and the complexities of collaborating across different perspectives. Stay tuned for future updates, as we continue to refine this ever-evolving resource.

Ep29: Neo4j GenAI plugin + How-To for Technical Content

In this episode, dive into a few exciting areas I've been exploring, including generative AI and graph technologies. I worked with Neo4j’s generative AI plugin for an experiment, and it wasn't all smooth sailing.
Next, my highlights from an article in the Descript community on how to expand your educational YouTube audience—especially applied for those creating technical content. Key tips include thinking like a viewer to ask great questions, tweaking video intros to keep people engaged, and channeling viewer interests to strengthen connections.

Ep28: 2024 Recap, 2025 Look-Ahead + Always Be Launching

Take a moment to reflect on 2024, exploring highlights in AI advancements, personal growth, and professional achievements, along with exciting 2025 goals. Then delve into an article that discusses marketing strategies but aligns well with developer advocacy.

Ep27: Lexical vs Semantic Search + Downside of Vector Databases

Explore the distinction between lexical and semantic search technologies, the growing use of vector databases, and the potential challenges and solutions that may arise as these technologies mature.

Ep26: Git Troubles + Dungeons & Dragons Graph

Git issues, finally resetting local branch, cherry-picking, and cleaning up. Then a fun graph presentation - Dungeons, Dragons, and Graph Databases.

Ep25: Github Actions + AI Coding Assistant

In this episode, hear some positive tech experiences from the week: the upgrade from GitHub Actions (upload/download artifact) to v4 through a 3rd party repo, and the new AI coding assistant feature in IntelliJ IDEA.

Ep24: Graph Data Science + Building Knowledge Graphs

This episode, my refresher with the Graph Data Science library with highlights and challenges. Then an overview of the Building Knowledge Graphs book, a guide on everything from concepts to technical details.

Ep23: Spring Data Neo4j course + Event recap

Hear learnings from the new Spring Data Neo4j course - building blocks, updates/deletes, and modeling. Then recap XtremeJ and NODES 2024, + upcoming at CJUG.

Ep22: LLM Graph Builder + Devrel unlocks “aha” moment

In this episode, get my latest experiences with the Neo4j LLM Graph Builder, both the benefits and challenges. Then, an article focusing on the concept of the "Aha moment"—a key moment when developers discover the value of a technology.

Ep21: Data is cool + NODES 2024 preview

In this episode, hear why data (a less glamorous topic) is actually fascinating and crucial. Then, look forward with a preview of next week's NODES 2024 event, which features a range of sessions on graph technologies, AI, data science, and security. Finally, get a teaser for the next episode.