Shows
Breaktime Tech TalksEp47: Langchain4j GraphRAG Friction + MCP Authorization Headaches
In this episode, I share some hands-on insights from building apps with Langchain4j using Quarkus and Neo4j, and compare it with Spring AI—especially around how each framework handles vector search and GraphRAG workflows. Spoiler: customization in Langchain4j feels a bit clunky.
I also dig into one article's critical take on the MCP authorization spec and why its current approach to security is misaligned with how enterprises actually structure identity and access. The article I discuss breaks down both the architectural intentions and the practical enterprise concerns—token handling, overhead, and developer friction.
If...2025-06-0607 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp46: Quarkus Neo4j Application + Development Lessons LearnedIn this episode, we dive into the Quarkus framework with a code repository and an article about development lessons learned. Topics covered include:
🔗 Building a starter application with Quarkus Neo4j and the Object Graph Mapper (OGM).
📝 Exploring similarities and differences between Quarkus and Spring frameworks.
📑 Resources for building with Quarkus and Neo4j - blog post and documentation.
📚 Key takeaways from an article on developer philosophy, touching on code rewrites, estimation challenges, and the importance of automation and edge cases.
Whether just curious or writing code, we all learn and face similar development challenges!
2025-05-3009 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp45: Exploring Java Frameworks + Launch of Spring AI 1.0In this episode, I have some exciting technical updates, along with insights from my recent work and learning. Topics covered include:
📝 Neo4j Java Driver & Object Mapping – My latest blog post and upcoming updates to the GraphAcademy Java courses.
🧪 Framework-less Java Apps – Experiments in building Java applications without a framework and comparing with tools like Spring and others.
🔧 Code Refactoring Strategy – Lessons learned on managing updates in stages for cleaner version control and project maintenance.
🤖 Spring AI 1.0 Release – Highlights from the official launch, including an AWS blog post on architecture insights, real-world examples...2025-05-2310 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp44: Updates in Java tools + MCP and SecurityIn this episode, we dive into three key updates from the world of Java development and emerging tech standards:
First, walk through a new feature in the Neo4j Java driver (v5.28.5) that enables lightweight object mapping. I’ve set up a sample code repository showcasing how to return Cypher query results directly into your Java domain objects—no full-blown OGM needed. It’s a big improvement, but with a few gotchas you’ll want to understand.
Next, we take a look at Jackson Jr, a lightweight version of the popular Jackson library. If you're working...2025-05-1610 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp43: MCP Java SDK + Naive RAG vs GraphRAGIn this episode, we dive into the latest upgrades in Neo4j tooling, along with recent bug fixes and enhancements in the LLM Knowledge Graph Builder. We also explore a new preview feature for Java object mapping in the Neo4j Java driver and check out the MCP Java SDK. Next, we highlight the new "Using Neo4j with Java" course on GraphAcademy and unpack a compelling Weaviate article on RAG vs. GraphRAG, featuring Microsoft’s GraphRAG methodology.
Whether you're a Java dev, graph enthusiast, or AI-curious, there's something in here for you!
2025-05-0911 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp42: RAG and Java + AI-generated content and MCPStar Wars Day is nearly here, and this episode is stacked with tech goodness to celebrate! I’m diving into highlights from the Neo4j ecosystem, starting with an early look at the Using Neo4j with Java course—perfect for getting started with the Java driver in a framework-less setup.
Also in this episode:
⚙️ Behind-the-scenes of APOC + Pinecone integration
✨ Part 2 of my Intro to Retrieval Augmented Generation series
🎥 My recent guest spot on Neo4j Live, discussing the Developer’s Guide to Building a Knowledge Graph
🤖 A fascinating series on an AI content expe...2025-05-0212 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp41: Spring AI M7, NODES, RAG + Neo4j, Quarkus, and Intelligent AppsIn this episode, we unpack a busy week of updates, learning, and cool tech! From Spring AI’s milestone 7 release with simplified Pinecone configuration to some tricky wifi, I walk through recent changes and adventures. Plus, NODES 2025 is officially announced, and there’s hints of our upcoming GraphAcademy Java course. I also talk about the first part of my new blog series on Retrieval Augmented Generation and highlight a fantastic article on Neo4j, Quarkus, and intelligent applications.
2025-04-2511 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp40: Recent AI learnings + More than a vector databaseFresh from the Arc of AI conference, I’m unpacking the biggest insights that stuck with me—ranging from the extremes of AI’s capabilities to the deeper implications for how we build and maintain our tech systems. I’ll also share a new blog post and code repo I published on loading data into Pinecone, some next-gen tools I’m eyeing, and thoughts on a great article from the Redis blog about why vector databases aren’t enough. Navigate the evolving landscape of LLMs, generative AI, and modern infrastructure with me in this episode.
2025-04-1110 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp39: Why embedding models should match + Advice for starting a blogIn this podcast episode, hear about my hands-on experience (code repository on Github) understanding the importance of using the same embedding models for both creating and searching vector embeddings in databases and how mismatched models can lead to poor search results.
I also pull highlights from an article with advice for those interested in blogging, and how it particularly relates to my own approach to tech blogging.
2025-04-0413 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp38: Spring AI Debugging + How to Contribute to Open SourceIn this episode, I continue my journey with vector databases, integrating Pinecone, Neo4j, and Spring AI. While making some progress, I also encountered hurdles, such as evolving APIs and the unique architecture of vector stores.
Next, I share insights from an article on contributing to open-source projects, how it can accelerate your career and enhance both your technical and soft skills. From picking the right project to building credibility within the community, it's a series of steps that gets better with time and practice!
2025-03-2113 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp37: Vector Database Frustration + Microsoft LazyGraphRAGIn this episode, I discuss my challenges exploring vector databases for an upcoming demo. From what is a vector database to integration issues, hear how I tried a few different approaches with limited success and discover the surprising one with the most promise. I also explore Microsoft's "Lazy Graph RAG" approach, which seems to trade one challenge for another but could be valuable in certain cases.
2025-03-1412 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp36: What is a Developer Advocate + Balancing Digital ConsumptionThis week, I explored the Javalin Java framework and project decisions I'm trying to make. I also answer: What exactly does a Developer Advocate/Evangelist/Devrel do? Finally, I reflect on an article on balancing digital consumption with actual productivity.
2025-02-2811 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp35: Vector Databases + Building Effective AgentsIn this episode, there are two topics I'm looking forward to diving deeper into: vector databases and AI agents. I'm particularly interested in understanding how vector databases work, how they work with data, and their role in AI applications.
Then I share my thoughts on Anthropic’s article about Building AI Agents, which discusses their varying definitions—from simple workflows to fully autonomous systems—and provides practical examples. The article highlights the importance of starting simple, adding complexity only as needed.
2025-02-2108 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp34: Outlines and Iterating + Lessons from Grace HopperIn this podcast episode, hear my process of preparing for an upcoming conference with insights on how outlines enhance presentations and blog posts, as well as code and architecture. Also discuss how constant improvement is key with an online course as an example. Finally, I highlight a historical read on cryptography, and share reflections from Grace Hopper's 1982 lecture on data, hardware, and software, drawing connections between her insights and modern challenges in technology.
2025-02-1413 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp33: Cypher DSL examples + Crowd-source AI hackingIn this episode, I share recent blog posts. The first is about tackling challenges with GitHub repositories, offering solutions on syncing forks and using git rebasing, diffs, and pruning. Next, I created examples with Cypher DSL, providing beginner-friendly details to help users get started. Additionally, I started prepping for the Devnexus conference, where I'll be delivering my first keynote.
I also read an article about an intriguing AI testing project where a user successfully manipulated an AI to break its rules and win a $50,000 prize, illustrating the potential challenges AI systems face in handling sensitive tasks.
2025-02-0708 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp32: Official CLI + Bread Code FrameworkIn this episode, I’m following up on a few things I’ve mentioned before. I dive into some updates on the Aura CLI (the official product version). I also explored the Neo4j GenAI Java library a bit more, including a connection hiccup I ran into with Neo4j Desktop. Then, I get into my experience with the Cypher DSL library and how Cypher fits into the retrieval part of RAG systems. Finally, I take a fun detour into an interesting article about a GitHub repository that combines coding and sourdough baking. It’s a cool reminder that the sk...2025-01-3110 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp31: Database CLI + Containerization RefcardIn this episode, hear updates on a few projects, including Neo4j's new Aura CLI and NeoConverse. Plus, the promised blog post from last week's episode on Spring Data Neo4j entity updates. Shout-out to the JAXJUG and TampaJUG groups. If you're not involved with a tech group, there are options!
Finally, a review of the DZone RefCard on Java containerization with its clear guidance on Docker containers, native builds, and deployment, making complex concepts more accessible for developers.
2025-01-2409 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp30: SDN update entity + Knowledge Graph ebookDive 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 d...2025-01-1709 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp29: Neo4j GenAI plugin + How-To for Technical ContentIn 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.
2025-01-1010 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp28: 2024 Recap, 2025 Look-Ahead + Always Be LaunchingTake 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.
2024-12-2712 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp27: Lexical vs Semantic Search + Downside of Vector DatabasesExplore 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.
2024-12-2008 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp26: Git Troubles + Dungeons & Dragons GraphGit issues, finally resetting local branch, cherry-picking, and cleaning up. Then a fun graph presentation - Dungeons, Dragons, and Graph Databases.
2024-12-0611 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp25: Github Actions + AI Coding AssistantIn 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.
2024-11-2908 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp24: Graph Data Science + Building Knowledge GraphsThis 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.
2024-11-2209 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp23: Spring Data Neo4j course + Event recapHear learnings from the new Spring Data Neo4j course - building blocks, updates/deletes, and modeling. Then recap XtremeJ and NODES 2024, + upcoming at CJUG.
2024-11-1514 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp22: LLM Graph Builder + Devrel unlocks “aha” momentIn 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.
2024-11-0811 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp21: Data is cool + NODES 2024 previewIn 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.
2024-11-0109 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp20: What is a graph + Goodhart’s LawCover the basics of graphs, explaining mathematical roots and applications. Introduce Goodhart's Law and highlight the risks of over-focusing on metrics, whether in tech or personal growth.
2024-10-2508 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp19: RAG vs Agents + Naming ThingsExplore agents in AI, distinguishing them from RAG (article1, article2). And discuss naming and the importance of conveying relevance and clarity.
2024-10-1810 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp18: What is Vector search + JConf/Dev2next experiencesWant to take our previous vector topic a step further with vector similarity search. Then, I’ll give my thoughts on 2 recent tech conferences - JConf and dev2next.
2024-10-1110 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp17: Using Asciidoc for Tech Content + Current Productivity ReadsThe Asciidoc markup language is powerful and useful for developers and technical writing. Also highlighting productivity books - Atomic Habits and Deep Work - and applications for a developer.
2024-10-0410 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp16: Mapping Relationships in Applications + Software EstimatesDocumenting how to map relationship entities from a database to an application. Then, delving into one author’s viewpoint on software project estimates and some ideas to adapt this inaccurate process for better results.
2024-09-2710 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp15: What is GraphRAG + Developing Better SoftwareThe term GraphRAG has recently popped up in the current AI industry, so I review a blog post on what it is and how it fits into the current landscape. I also read an article on ways to improve software development.
2024-09-2011 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp14: Making Tech Relatable + Java Entity MappingI’m always refreshing my memory and learning new things. How to explain technical concepts to broader audiences, then a question from the community took me into the Java driver docs and entity mapping/OGMs.
2024-09-1308 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp13: GraphQL vs GQL vs Cypher + Road to NODESHappy Fall! This week, we talk about confusion around GraphQL, GQL, and graph query languages. Then, I am excited to gear up for NODES 2024 by showcasing pre-conference workshops called Road to NODES!
2024-09-0609 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp12: What is RAG + Case for ConferencesThis week, we discuss retrieval augmented generation (RAG) and how it’s being used to improve responses (or prevent hallucinations) from an LLM. We also chat about an article on how tech conferences have changed and how you can still find value in speaking or attending, plus how to justify the benefits at your organization.
2024-08-3011 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp11: What is a Knowledge Graph + DevUp ConferenceA recent blog post defines "knowledge graph", a term that has been around awhile and is part of many recent AI conversations. And then we chat about the DevUp conference I attended last week. Hopefully my thoughts will help you decide how to choose the best event for you.
2024-08-2309 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp10: What are embeddings + LLM use case and promptWith the amount of new information, sometimes it’s hard to review earlier concepts. In this episode, we explain what an embedding is and talk about aligning your prompt with your use case for improving LLM answers (example app code repository).
2024-08-1607 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp9: Graphs for Conference Scheduling + Spring AI 1.0In preparing for the NODES 2024 conference, I’ll talk about how my colleague and I made scheduling easier by using Neo4j (a database). Spring AI also moved to a 1.0 milestone, and I’ll talk about the easier-than-expected migration (more in my related blog post).
2024-08-0909 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp8: Luck Favors the Prepared + LLM Graph Builder ToolDo you ever feel like some people have all the luck? Sometimes we need to see things in a new light to break through the barrier or overcome the obstacle. Plus, I took a look at a new-ish tool from Neo4j called the LLM Graph Builder. I’ll give a quick intro on that, plus what I’m doing with it and how it’s going.
2024-08-0208 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp7: Deploying Neo4j on Kubernetes + Parallel Relationship LoadingI now have a code repository and blog post for Neo4j+Kubernetes. We also chat about another blog post on how to solve a deadlock with parallel relationship loading.
2024-07-2608 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp6: Maintaining Personal Website + Git SubmodulesA few years ago, I built a website for my technical blog. Find out how I solved this year's bug. Through the process, we'll discuss git submodules and how to use them.
2024-07-1909 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp5: What are vectors + KCDC HighlightsAI seems to be everywhere in the tech industry right now….but it comes with a lot of new technical jargon. Let's explain vectors - what they are and how they are being used in tech. Then, we’ll give a quick highlight and shout-out to the Kansas City Developer Conference.
2024-07-1211 min
Cloud CommuteGetting Started with Graph Databases with Jennifer Reif from Neo4jIn this week's episode of simplyblock's Cloud Commute podcast, host Chris Engelbert sits down with Jennifer Reif, a developer advocate at Neo4j. Jennifer dives into the fascinating world of graph databases, explaining how Neo4j stores data as entities and relationships, making it perfect for complex queries involving networks, social structures, supply chains, and more.In this episode of Cloud Commute, Chris and Jennifer discuss:Use cases of Neo4j, including social networks, permission systems, and complex data relationshipsGetting started with Neo4j: Cypher query language, Neo4j Aura, and integration with KubernetesThe future of...2024-07-1226 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp4: Where’s the Graph Data Type in Programming Languages?How do you manipulate or handle a graph in languages like Java, Python, and more, and why can it be so difficult? In this episode, we discuss the blog post The Hunt for the Missing Datatype by Hillel Wayne and his thoughts on why programming languages might avoid the graph data type.
2024-07-0809 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp3: Current Tech Read and Exploring KubernetesChat about my current tech read (Where Wizards Stay Up Late) about technology history, touching on networking, internet, and AI. Exploration of Kubernetes (running Neo4j and application) using guidance from Sebastian Daschner's blog post on Deploying a Neo4j cluster on manager Kubernetes.
2024-06-2809 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp2: Spring AI Debugging and Query Tune-UpToday, we debug a Spring AI application and review Adam Cowley's blog post on optimizing Cypher statements with popular nodes!
2024-06-2109 minBreaktime Tech TalksEp1: Meet Breaktime Tech Talks + Devnexus SummaryToday, we introduce the Breaktime Tech Talks podcast, chat about how it came about (jmhreif blog + GraphStuff.FM podcast), and provide a recap of the Devnexus conference.
2024-06-1408 min
GraphStuff.FM: The Neo4j Graph Database Developer PodcastGetting the Word out on Knowledge Graphs with Leann ChenSpeaker Resources:Diffbot https://www.diffbot.com/Tomaz Bratanic’s Medium blog: https://bratanic-tomaz.medium.com/What is DSP/DSPy? https://github.com/stanfordnlp/dspyTools of the Month:cypher-shell command line tool https://neo4j.com/docs/operations-manual/current/tools/cypher-shell/Langchain/Diffbot graph transformer https://python.langchain.com/v0.1/docs/integrations/graphs/diffbot/st-cytoscape https://github.com/vivien000/st-cytoscapeAnnouncements / News:NODES 2024 CfP resources:GraphStuff episode https://graphstuff.fm/episodes/navigating-a-technical-conference-talk-from-submission-to-deliveryNODES submission tips: https://neo4j.com/blog/nodes-talk-submission-tips/How to Submit a Technical Presentation https://jmhreif.com/blog/nodes-2024-cfp/Ar...2024-06-0149 min
BragTalksEpisode 11: Getting Your First Job in Tech: Jennifer ReifIn this episode of BragTalks, Jennifer Reif shares how she got her first job in tech and successfully presented at several technology conferences. This episode is hosted by Heather VanCura, who met Jennifer through speaking and attending several of the same conferences as Jennifer. Season 2 is all about transitions and pivots, and this podcast is full of them!
This isn't just a one way conversation either. Share your story and experience with us by subscribing and filling out the contact form on BragTalks.com. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn as well. You can listen on Apple, G...2022-06-3027 min