Scott & Mark Learn To… AI-Assisted Coding: Can AI Take the Wheel?
In this episode, Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich dive deep into the promises and pitfalls of AI-assisted coding. They debate whether large language models can truly handle complex software projects, discuss the limitations of current AI systems in areas like synchronization, and explore the difference between human learning and machine pattern-matching. Along the way, they touch on the dangers of over-anthropomorphizing AI, the rise of “thinking tokens” in new models, and the impact these tools may have on junior developers learning the craft. Takeaways: The ongoing debate: can AI scale into true general intelligence or not? The risks of relying too heavily on AI when you don’t understand your own code What junior developers may lose and gain in a world of AI-assisted programming Who are they? View Scott Hanselman on LinkedIn View Mark Russinovich on LinkedIn Watch Scott and Mark Learn on YouTube Listen to other episodes at scottandmarklearn.to Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Scott & Mark Learn To… Level Up: Navigating Career Growth in Microsoft
In this episode, Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich dive into the realities of career progression at Microsoft and in tech more broadly. They discuss the different paths engineers can take, whether through management, deep technical expertise, or individual innovation and the role that scope, impact, and even luck plays in promotions. Along the way, they reflect on the challenges of leveling, the importance of communication, and the balance between recognition, influence, and personal fulfillment in a long-term career. Takeaways: Engineers can advance without becoming managers through individual contributions Communication and influence are critical for advancing to senior levels Promotions hinge on measurable business outcomes, not just effort or shipped work Who are they? View Scott Hanselman on LinkedIn View Mark Russinovich on LinkedIn Watch Scott and Mark Learn on YouTube Listen to other episodes at scottandmarklearn.to Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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26:29
Scott & Mark Learn To… Chatbot, Another Vibe-Coded Project by Mark
In this episode, Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich dive into the technical side of modern AI research and development workflows. They discuss the power of remote development with VS Code, building custom chatbot tools for jailbreak testing, and exploring token probabilities with log probes. Mark also shares how he leveraged AI to generate a working UX in one shot, why temperature settings matter for model outputs, and his plans to open source his custom chatbot client. Takeaways: Discover how Mark uses VS Code split between local and cloud for AI researchExplore the risks and creativity behind context injection jailbreakGet insights into model temperature settings and output logprobsWho are they? View Scott Hanselman on LinkedIn View Mark Russinovich on LinkedIn Watch Scott and Mark Learn on YouTube Listen to other episodes at scottandmarklearn.to Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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23:15
Scott & Mark Learn To… Refchecker, a Useful Tool Coded by Mark and AI
In this episode, Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich explore the challenges and opportunities of coding with AI assistants. They compare different models, discuss the quirks of “vibe coding,” and share insights on building tools that bridge LLMs and APIs. Mark walks through his experience developing an academic reference checker, highlighting how AI can help structure messy data, uncover edge cases, and speed up complex development work. The conversation also touches on the evolving joy of coding, from puzzle-solving by hand to managing AI-driven workflows, and how these shifts are reshaping both productivity and creativity.Takeaways: Mark’s journey building an academic reference checker with AIHow AI assistants are changing the way developers find joy in codingRefChecker source code: https://github.com/markrussinovich/refchecker Who are they? View Scott Hanselman on LinkedIn View Mark Russinovich on LinkedIn Watch Scott and Mark Learn on YouTube Listen to other episodes at scottandmarklearn.to Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Scott & Mark Learn To… What Makes Good 1-1s
In this episode, Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich share strategies for conducting more effective and purposeful one-on-one meetings. They emphasize the value of tailoring the approach to each individual, encouraging agenda-setting in advance, and prioritizing critical topics to ensure they are addressed. The discussion covers best practices for providing and receiving constructive feedback, maintaining visibility across teams, and striking a balance between trust and accountability. They also address the importance of recognizing contributions, differentiating between credit and “lift,” and using one-on-ones to proactively identify and remove obstacles.Takeaways: Tailor meeting style to each person’s preferences for communication and frequencyAvoid over-preparation or unnecessary large meetings when a small discussion will sufficeShare discussion topics ahead of one-on-ones with senior leaders to maximize valueWho are they? View Scott Hanselman on LinkedIn View Mark Russinovich on LinkedIn Watch Scott and Mark Learn on YouTube Listen to other episodes at scottandmarklearn.to Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join tech industry veterans Scott Hanselman and Mark Russinovich as they dive into the challenges and innovations of today’s fast-paced world. Whether you’re an experienced developer or simply curious about technology, each episode offers a fresh perspective on emerging trends, familiar topics, and insights that go beyond the strictly technical. From the latest in AI to effective ways to influence without authority, Scott and Mark set out to 'learn' something new in every episode, and they’re bringing you along for the ride. Join Scott and Mark for engaging discussions, expert advice, and a shared journey of learning and discovery. There's always something new to learn! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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