Foojay Podcast #14: Debugging Tools and Skills for Fun and Profit
Every Java developer hits a bug they cannot explain. The tools are right there in the IDE, but most of us only scratch the surface of what they can do. This episode digs into debugging as a craft, from breakpoints and the JDWP protocol to observability and the tunnel vision that traps us when we chase the wrong lead. Host Shai Almog sits down with Johannes Bechberger, Marit van Dijk, and Ties van de Ven for Foojay Podcast #14, which I produced.
What we talked about
- Debugging with IntelliJ IDEA and how to discover the tools hidden in plain sight
- The JDWP protocol that powers Java debuggers
- Exception breakpoints and when to reach for them
- External debugging tools beyond the IDE
- Observability and monitoring for production systems
- The information you should look for while debugging
- Tunnel vision and how to step back when you get stuck
- Finding bugs when you do not know where they live, and using git bisect
What stood out
We treat debugging like a chore, but the guests frame it as a skill you sharpen on purpose. The chat about tunnel vision lands well, because every developer has spent an hour staring at the wrong file. Rubber ducks also get a fair amount of credit.
See the Foojay Podcast #14 for all info, shownotes, links, etc.