JSON fields can be very useful, but when is a good time to include them in your database design?

In today's episode of No Compromises, Aaron and Joel use a couple examples from recent projects to talk through reasons they would and would not use a JSON field.

• (00:00) - Debating JSON fields in database design
• (03:06) - Configuration options: JSON vs. relational tables
• (07:05) - Real-world example: label customization dilemma
• (11:30) - Silly bit

Static types and tooling have increased the quality of our apps, but sometimes certain features in your Laravel app don't play nicely with static analysis.

In today's episode, we talk about how we approach the tradeoffs around making a tool happy without changing how you write code.

• (00:00) - Our approach to static analysis in a Laravel app
• (01:30) - Using PHPDoc inline
• (03:00) - When Laravel doesn't quite give you the type you want
• (05:00) - A different approach than inline types
• (06:30) - Are you just making the tool happy?
• (07:45) - An example of going too far
• (10:10) - Silly bit

I write a lot about testing in the Mastering Laravel newsletter. Ever wonder why it's a topic I care so much about?

In today's episode, we discuss that question and come up with a few different reasons.

• (00:00) - Why do we like testing so much?
• (01:20) - Looking back at how we learned
• (02:30) - Making it easier to join a project
• (05:45) - Tests make you more productive
• (07:45) - Shifting your thinking
• (10:10) - Silly bit