An Average American

Sergey Barskiy

Podcast on technology topics that affect an average American life in these great United States.

  1. 12/27/2025

    Use of AI in Software Development — 2025 Year in Review

    In this episode, I reflect on 2025 as a turning point for AI in software development, drawing from nearly 30 years in the industry. I compare early tools like GitHub Copilot to 2025’s agent-based systems—such as Codex and Claude Code—and explain why this year felt genuinely transformative for my day-to-day work and productivity. I place this shift in the context of past technology waves like the internet and mobile development, explaining why AI agents feel different. Finally, I examine the growing political debate around AI infrastructure and data centers, and why I believe government should be careful not to limit access to tools that are already delivering real value to everyday developers.

    22 min

  2. 10/19/2025

    AI In Software Development - Revisited

    In this episode of An Average American, Sergey revisits the role of AI in modern software development after two years of hands-on experience. Early on, GitHub Copilot impressed but fell short of its lofty productivity claims. Today, with OpenAI Codecs and Cloud Code running in agent mode, the story is very different. Sergey reflects on how improved models like GPT-5 Codex and Claude 4.5, combined with better tooling, have realistically doubled his productivity on many tasks. He discusses why AI tools have finally matured, where they still lag — especially in speed — and how the developer workflow itself is evolving. This episode explores how AI has shifted from a novelty to an essential teammate in the coding process.

    23 min

  3. 07/20/2025

    AI and Software Development

    In this episode, I reflect on how AI is transforming the software industry—from mass layoffs at tech giants to the growing power of tools like GitHub Copilot. I share my personal experiences using AI at work, the challenges and benefits, and why I believe every developer must adapt. I also break down six essential skills—critical thinking, debugging, communication, empathy, health, and AI collaboration—that will define the successful developers of the future. My message is simple: keep using AI at work to get better at working with AI.

    50 min

  4. 06/01/2025

    How Programming Changed My Brain

    In this episode of An Average American, we explore how learning to code reshapes the mind—enhancing logic, memory, creativity, and even empathy. Backed by scientific research and personal insights, this solo reflection dives into how programming trains the brain to solve problems more effectively, communicate more clearly, and see the world through a more structured lens. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just curious, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how writing code can rewire how you think.

    26 min

  5. 04/12/2025

    The Science of Oil Painting

    Old oil paint tubes and well-worn brushes – the tools of the trade for oil painters. In this episode, we unpack the science behind how these tools create their magic.

    22 min

  6. 04/06/2025

    The Past, Present and Future of Software Development

    In this episode of An Average American, we explore the future of software development—from its humble beginnings to today’s AI-driven landscape. We discuss the evolution of tools and practices, the rising role of AI in coding, and whether computer science degrees still matter. While AI is transforming how we build software, it’s clear that critical thinking, deep technical understanding, and human creativity are more valuable than ever. The future will likely include more developers from diverse backgrounds, working alongside AI to create software faster and more efficiently—but the core principles of good development aren’t going anywhere.

    54 min

  7. 03/30/2025

    Trigger, Powder, and Progress: The Story of Firearms

    In this episode of An Average American, we dive into the science, technology, and history of firearms—from the smoky matchlocks of the 1400s to the precision-engineered rifles and pistols of today. Blending personal experience with storytelling, I explore how ignition systems, ballistics, and mechanical innovations have shaped the evolution of guns and rifles. We’ll also touch on their role in society—past and present—in a balanced and thoughtful way. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just curious, this episode offers a deeper understanding of the tools behind the trigger.

    49 min

  8. 03/22/2025

    AI in Software Development: Revolution, Reality, and the Future of Coding

    AI is rapidly transforming software development, but how much of the hype is true? While some claim AI writes 100% of the code, the reality is more nuanced—AI tools like GitHub Copilot and Google’s internal models assist developers, boosting productivity but not replacing them. This episode explores how AI affects coding efficiency, fact-checks claims about AI-generated code, and examines whether companies will cut jobs or simply do more with the same workforce. We also discuss the uncertain future of entry-level programmers, the role of AI in major tech companies, and what developers need to do to stay relevant in this evolving landscape. Will AI take over coding, or will it just be another powerful tool in the programmer’s arsenal? Tune in to find out!

    44 min
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About

Podcast on technology topics that affect an average American life in these great United States.

Information

  • Creator
    Sergey Barskiy
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Sergey Barskiy
  • Show Website
    An Average American