S1 E7 | A Deep Dive into SQLMesh: Structured Query Validation and Safe Pipeline Testing with Michiel De Muynck
Jun 19, 2025
•
Kris Peeters & Michiel De Muynck - The Data Playbook Podcast
Michiel De Muynck explores SQLMesh: semantic layer, virtual data environments, and unit testing for SQL-based analytics.
In this episode of The Data Playbook, we take a technical look at SQLMesh, a data transformation framework designed to improve the workflow and reliability of SQL-based data pipelines. Hosted by Kris Peeters, the episode features Michiel De Muynck, Senior Data Engineer at Dataminded, who provides a deep dive into SQLMesh’s internal mechanics, including its use of semantic analysis and isolated runtime environments. Michiel outlines how SQLMesh differentiates itself from tools like dbt by incorporating a semantic parser for SQL, enabling structural validation and more precise error diagnostics during pipeline development. He also explains the implementation of virtual data environments, which allow data engineers to stage, test, and version transformations without impacting production datasets, supporting safer iteration and deployment processes.
Listen & Watch on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Latest
Data Science vs Data Engineering: Breaking the Wall
Breaking the wall between data science and data engineering with practical lessons on testing, notebooks, and production-ready data work.
A Structured Framework for Building Successful Data Solutions
In this episode we talk with Frederic Vanderveken about a practical framework to make sure you’re building the right data solutions.
Data Engineering Meets Excel: Building Explainable and Reliable Decision Models with River Solutions
How River Solutions turns messy Excel models into explainable, reliable decision tools for analysts and leaders.
