Navigating Kairos: Immutable Operating Systems with a Cloud Native Twist
Exploring Kairos: Turning Linux Distributions into Immutable Operating Systems
In this episode, we dive into the Kairos project, a CNCF initiative aimed at converting any Linux distribution into an immutable operating system. Hosts David and Laura chat with Mauro and Dimitris, maintainers of Kairos, discussing the motivations, technical aspects, and unique features of the project. Listeners get an inside look at the challenges and solutions involved in creating an immutable OS, the project's community, and its intriguing name origin. Whether you're a home lab enthusiast or an enterprise developer, this episode offers valuable insights into Linux immutability, system management, and future trends.
15 Oct 2025
Flatcar Linux: A Modern OS for the Always-On Infrastructure
Flatcar Linux: A Modern OS for the Always-On Infrastructure
In this episode, we dive deep into Flatcar Linux, an immutable Linux distribution designed for always-on infrastructures. The discussion covers the architecture and features of Flatcar, including its self-updating capabilities and minimal attack surface. We explore the use of Ignition for provisioning, the role of Systemd and its extensions, and the detailed update process via an update server. The Flatcar maintainers also highlight the benefits of full-disk encryption, node-level metrics, and operational insights available through tools like Nebraska and Node exporter. Guest speakers include Flatcar maintainers and engineers from Microsoft, who share their experiences and insights on managing and maintaining Flatcar at scale.
Creators & Guests
David Flanagan (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/david-flanagan) - Host
:thilo: (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/thilo) - Guest
Mathieu Tortuyaux (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/mathieu-tortuyaux) - Guest
James Le Cuirot (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/james-le-cuirot) - Guest
(00:00) - Introduction
(01:59) - Guest Introductions
(03:10) - What is Flatcar?
(12:30) - Kernel modules and Flatcar
(17:41) - Getting started with Flatcar
(21:27) - Encryption with Flatcar
(29:40) - Kubernetes Upgrades with Flatcar
(35:14) - Flatcar k8s node upgrades
(38:08) - Flatcar Metrics
(40:42) - Operating at scale
(44:25) - Recap
(45:07) - Quick-fire questions
10 Oct 2025
Platform Engineering: Asking 'Why?' with Evelyn Osman
Evolving Platform Engineering & The Rise and Fall of Kubernetes with Evelyn Osman.
In today's episode of Cloud Native Compass, we dive deep into the world of platform engineering and Kubernetes. Our guest, Evelyn Osmond, head of platform at a Munich-based energy trade startup, shares her extensive experience and insights on building and maintaining platforms. We discuss the future of scripting, the challenges of release management, and the importance of continually asking 'why' in both technical and business contexts. Join us as we explore the benefits and potential pitfalls of Kubernetes, the necessity of understanding the 'why' behind our choices, and the evolving landscape of cloud-native technologies. Whether you're a junior developer or a seasoned engineer, there's something here for everyone.
Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCvRycq-zNo)
(00:00) - Introduction and Overview
(01:02) - Guest Introduction: Evelyn Osmond
(03:26) - Evelyn's Background in Tech
(05:08) - The Evolution of Scripting and Platforms
(13:53) - The Importance of Asking 'Why'
(19:14) - Engineering Principles and Practices
(22:49) - Debating Code Generation and Templating
(23:14) - Understanding Developer Motivations
(24:05) - The Importance of Questioning Requirements
(30:02) - Challenges with Kubernetes Adoption
(30:52) - Evaluating Kubernetes for Different Use Cases
(35:37) - The Future of Kubernetes and Cloud Native Solutions
(41:59) - Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
Creators & Guests
Laura Santamaria (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/laura-santamaria) - Host
David Flanagan (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/david-flanagan) - Host
Evelyn Osman (https://cloudnativecompass.fm/people/evelyn-osman) - Guest
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
831,193
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 59 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
81
Social presence
0
YouTube
93
Engagement
0
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