Is C++ really as unsafe as its reputation suggests, or is the real problem how we use it? In this episode of The Curious Developer, Jesper Pedersen (KDAB) sits down with Klaus Iglberger, author of "C++ Software Design Patterns," to discuss the challenges and misconceptions around modern C++ programming. Klaus argues that C++ can be incredibly safe—if used with the right mindset and modern techniques. The conversation dives into why the C++ community is wary of pointers, the importance of using standard algorithms over hand-written loops, and why outdated teaching materials perpetuate myths about the language’s safety. They also explore practical strategies for modernizing large legacy codebases, the role of AI tools in refactoring, and the balance between deep technical knowledge and good software architecture. Klaus shares advice for continuous learning, the value of up-to-date books and resources, and why keeping code simple is often the best path to fewer...

Are you tired of wrestling with CMake files, endless boilerplate, and confusing build systems? You're not alone! In this insightful interview, we sit down with Nicole Patricia Mazzuca, build system and package management expert at Remarkable (and former Microsoft vcpkg contributor), to dive deep into the world of C++ build tooling. Nicole shares practical advice, lessons learned from maintaining massive codebases, and her vision for empowering all C++ developers to own their build systems without fear. Whether you’re an experienced build engineer or new to C++, this conversation will help you rethink how you approach project builds. Key topics covered: - Why CMake is both loved and hated by developers - Real-world pain points with CMake, Make, AutoTools, and MSBuild - How vcpkg helps streamline developer dependencies across platforms - Introducing Rho — a new CMake library designed to make build files simpler, more maintainable, and less intimidating for non-experts...

YouTube video by KDAB