The Stedman SQL Server Podcast: A Deep Dive into SQL Server Performance

At Stedman Solutions, we understand the challenges that come with managing SQL Server databases. Whether it’s query optimization, Performance Tuning, or Disaster Recovery, we’ve seen it all. That’s why we created the Stedman SQL Server Podcast—a resource for database professionals looking to improve their SQL Server environments.

One of Our Most Popular Episodes: Indexing for Performance

One of our most popular episodes, Season 2, Episode 4: Indexing for Performance, has resonated with listeners. In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of indexing, explaining how proper indexing can drastically improve query performance. Using a simple phone book analogy, we illustrate the difference between heaps, clustered indexes, and non-clustered indexes—and why choosing the right index strategy is critical for database efficiency.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How SQL Server organizes data internally and why unindexed tables (heaps) cause performance issues.
• Clustered vs. Non-Clustered Indexes and when to use each.
• How the Query Optimizer uses indexes to improve search efficiency.
• Common indexing mistakes that slow down databases and how to fix them.
• Balancing performance with storage overhead, ensuring that indexing improves queries without negatively impacting INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE operations.

If you’ve ever had a slow-running query and weren’t sure where to start, this episode provides a clear, actionable approach to indexing for performance.

Why Listen to the Stedman SQL Server Podcast?

The Stedman SQL Server Podcast covers a range of topics, from performance tuning and Corruption recovery to best practices for database management. Whether you are a DBA, developer, or IT manager, this podcast is designed to help you make the most of your SQL Server environment.

If you haven’t listened yet, now is a great time to start. Check out the Indexing for Performance episode and explore our other SQL Server deep dives.

Listen to the Stedman SQL Server Podcast here

If you have a topic you’d like us to cover, let us know—we’re always looking for ways to help SQL Server professionals solve real-world challenges.

Related Links

• Stedman SQL Sever Podcast
• Stedman SQL Sever Podcast on Youtube
• Stedman SQL Sever Podcast on Spotify
• Indexing for Performance Episode