FileMaker DevCast: Everything Claris FileMaker
The FileMaker Developer podcast, sponsored by Portage Bay Solutions, is the ultimate destination for developers looking to streamline their development process and rapidly deploy their solutions. Join our expert hosts as they delve into the latest techniques and tools for using Claris FileMaker’s low code platform to create custom, business-critical solutions with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just getting started, this podcast will provide valuable insights and inspiration to help you take your development skills to the next level.
Episodes
Episode 33: FileMaker 2026 Review: More Than Meets the Eye
It's been two months since FileMaker 2026 was released and our devs are still discovering. This episode, the team is looking into what the update really means for developers and the new features they’re most excited about: AI-assisted development possibilities, WebDirect improvements, layout enhancements, and more. They also discuss some of the quieter but valuable additions in FileMaker 2026, lik
Episode 32: The Intelligence Limits of Confidently Incorrect AI
In this episode of DevCast, our devs share their firsthand experiences using AI tools like Claude and Gemini for FileMaker development. They spotlight where they excel, where they fall short, and what developers need to watch out for. They cover AI hallucinating FileMaker functions and scripts, misinterpreting FileMaker Server logs, context window limitations, memory persistence, and the importanc
Episode 31: What We’ve Been Building: Web App Edition
In their spare time, John, Xandon, and Jacob have been creating personal web apps. John is creating a healthcare referral portal that easily and efficiently collects and processes referral submissions. Xandon is prepping for his kid's college days by having all the info they need, like planning, admissions, and athletic recruiting in one space. Jacob is making a homeschool learning platform for hi
Episode 30: Using ExecuteSQL: A Cautionary Tale
One little ExecuteSQL query can’t hurt… right? In this episode, the team unpacks the FileMaker performance issues hiding inside real-world solutions. Runaway SQL calls, invisible object calculations, and AI-generated code that looked smart until it brought everything to a crawl. They discuss debugging wins, optimization tips, and the kinds of “how did this even happen?” moments that every develope
Episode 29: Claude Cowork, AI Linguistics, and 3D Printing
Welcome to an inside look at how our devs are testing out where AI can help versus hinder every day work conundrums. Our team's focus in this meeting is Claude Cowork, a tool designed to track everything within a specified local folder.As for team demonstrations and discussions, Xandon uses a plugin that parses FileMaker XML to generate web-based code reviews and actionable recommendations. Nick s
Episode 28: Comparing Tools: FMPerception, BaseElements, 2empowerFM
The Portage Bay team sits down for a conversation about the tools and workflows that support their day-to-day work. Their discussion offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the devs approach problem-solving, collaboration, and efficiency as they kick off the year.The team dives into the systems and tools they use regularly, like FM Perception, Base Elements, and 2Empower which support code navigati
Episode 27: Meet HAM - Another Option for FileMaker Permissions (with Charles Delfs)
We had the pleasure of hearing Charles Delfs break down HAM (Headless Authorization Module) as he showed us how this system transforms the way you manage roles, permissions, and feature access in FileMaker. Inheritance, overrides, and data-driven rules can replace brittle security setups and open use cases like feature flags, SaaS plans, and time-based access.
Episode 26: Click, Build, Deploy: FM BetterForms Updates Unwrapped
We’re diving into the latest updates to FM Better Forms and taking a closer look at one of our own client’s web apps built on the platform. We share what’s new in Better Forms and how we’ve used it to build modern, real-world web apps that bridge the gap between low-code speed and polished web performance while combating challenges like caching.
Episode 25: Reports, Pickers, and JSON: The Value of Virtual Lists
Virtual lists are one of the most powerful and flexible techniques in FileMaker, giving developers the ability to generate custom reports, create dynamic pickers, and display complex data without storing it in fields.The team breaks down the essentials, like how global variables and JSON arrays feed into unstored calculations, how scripts can define headers and build arrays with SQL or looping, an
Episode 24: API Integrations: The Good, the Buggy, and the Workarounds
Join our development team as we share real-world insights from recent API integration projects—including SharePoint, Shopify, QuickBooks, and Claris Connect. From handling authentication quirks to leveraging tools like Postman and n8n, this DevCast dives into the decisions, roadblocks, and solutions behind the systems we build. Whether you're navigating OAuth, working with REST vs. GraphQL, or exp
Episode 23: Smarter Automation with n8n and FileMaker
In this episode of FileMaker DevCast, we dive into n8n—a flexible, low-code workflow automation platform that gives you total control over how your systems talk to each other.We explore how n8n stacks up against tools like Zapier and Claris Connect, and walk through live examples of connecting Google Forms, FileMaker, email services, and even local AI agents. Learn how to build scalable, resilient
Episode 22: Our Takeaways from Claris Engage 2025
Joe, John, and Xandon were able to attend Claris Engage this week, at the Apple campus in Austin. They recorded a DevCast session while still in the capital of Texas, to recap some of their observations and experiences about the latest news and trends in the FileMaker ecosystem. Dan Smiley joined as our ever-illustrious host, along with a few more of our Portage Bay staff - Mike Ross, and our newe
Episode 21: Ready? Engage. It's Prep Time for the 26th Claris FileMaker Conference
The Portage Bay team welcomes Julie Sigfrinius, from Claris, to discuss plans for the upcoming Claris Engage 2025, which is less than three months away. Listen to hear key reasons why you should attend this 26th FileMaker developer conference. Get access to product updates and innovations, as well as Claris experts and leaders. Develop your skills through networking, mentoring, and training. Learn
Episode 20: How FM BetterForms Can Modernize FileMaker-Powered Web Apps
In Episode 20 of the FileMaker DevCast, join our Portage Bay developers as they talk web apps. Charles, Jacob, Joe, John, Mike, & Russell discuss the nuances of deciding what approach to use when integrating FileMaker data with a web front-end. Do you stick with WebDirect, branch out to using FM BetterForms, or commit to full-stack development?WebDirect has an advantage of proven simplic
Episode 19: Claris FileMaker 21.1 with Guest Lucy Chen, VP of FileMaker Engineering
Join us for a very special in-depth interview with Lucy Chen, VP of Claris Engineering. Kate Waldhauser hosts this special edition of the FileMaker DevCast, as Lucy gives us a glimpse behind the scenes of the engineering world at Claris, an Apple Company.Lucy shares insights as to how new features get into the product and how the latest version improves performance, reliability and security. She t
Episode 18: JSON: With Guest Matt Navarre of Navarre Training
Enjoy Episode 18 of the FileMaker DevCast as our developers discuss JSON, along with special guest Matt Navarre of Navarre Training. We explore the latest tools, techniques, and best practices for using JSON to build fully capable custom applications in FileMaker."Basically, if you're a FileMaker developer, at this point ... you cannot afford not to get really good at using JSON. It's ... no longe
Episode 17: We Welcome Mike Ross to the Portage Bay Team
In this episode of the FileMaker DevCast, we welcome Mike Ross to the Portage Bay team. Mike is a seasoned FileMaker developer with over 35 years of experience and discusses his transition from running a one-person business to joining Portage Bay for continuity of care, shared expertise, and collaboration.He shares his approach to database development, emphasizing simplicity and client involvement
Episode 16: Claris Connect: Talking automation & integration with Beth Murillo of The Scarpetta Group
In this episode of the FileMaker DevCast we welcome Beth Murillo, Operations Manager and Software Developer at The Scarpetta Group, to discuss using Claris Connect for automation and integration between various systems. We share our experiences and challenges with custom connectors, API changes, and error handling. We talk about creative uses of Claris Connect in our work, such as managing support
Episode 15: Catching Errors: Effective Error Logging in FileMaker Development
In this episode of the FileMaker Dev Cast, we step into the critical topic of error logging with the development team from Portage Bay Solutions. Join us as they share their best practices and solutions for effectively capturing and managing errors within FileMaker applications. From common pitfalls to advanced techniques, this episode is packed with insights to help you enhance the reliability an
Episode 14: Beyond the Code: Integrating ChatGPT with FileMaker for Next-Level Development
Don’t miss out on discovering how AI can transform your approach to database management and client interactions. In Episode 14 of the FileMaker DevCast, we talk more about the world of artificial intelligence and FileMaker. We’ve been looking into how to seamlessly integrate large language models like ChatGPT into FileMaker solutions, to enhance functionality and user experience. We talk about som
Episode 13: Claris Engage Unveiled: A Live Chat with Clay Maeckel and the Portage Bay Solutions Team's Conference Insights
Join us for a special episode of the FileMaker Devcast, direct from Claris Engage, featuring an exclusive live interview with Clay Maeckel, Chief Software Architect at Claris. In this insightful session, Clay will peel back the curtain on the innovative process behind adding new features to FileMaker, offering listeners a unique glimpse into the development and decision-making that drives this lea
Episode 12: New Beginnings in Data: Setting Strategic Goals for FileMaker Success in 2024
In this insightful episode titled 'New Beginnings in Data: Setting Strategic Goals for FileMaker Success in 2024,' we pivot our focus towards setting actionable goals for FileMaker developers aiming to leverage AI more effectively, dive into Python, and seamlessly integrate JavaScript into their projects. We'll explore strategies for harnessing the power of AI to automate and enhance data processe
Episode 11: FileMaker EngageU: Innovation in Action with Joris Aarts & Johan Hedman
In this dynamic episode of FileMaker EngageU, we delve into the heart of community and innovation within the FileMaker ecosystem. Our guests, Joris Aarts from Clickworks, Johan Hedman from Square Moon, and Kate Waldhauser with her Portage Bay design team, come together to discuss the evolution and impact of EngageU. We compare the vibrant atmosphere of EngageU to its predecessor, Engage, highlight
Episode 10: The Power of Pause: Unpacking Insights from the Pause FileMaker Gathering
In this captivating episode of "The Power of Pause," our development team delves into their comprehensive experience at the renowned Pause conference / unconference. They kick off the discussion with a vivid recount of the retreat's atmosphere, highlighting the innovative spirit that permeated the event. The team touches on the keynote speeches that resonated with them, sharing how these insights
Episode 9: Unleashing the Power of JavaScript within FileMaker
In this episode of DevCast, the brilliant minds from Portage Bay Solutions join our ever-curious host, Dan Smiley, for a deep dive into the synergies of FileMaker and JavaScript. We'll showcase the versatility and enhancements possible with the Carafe Kitchen tool, allowing for a seamless integration experience. Plus, witness the magic of integrating the Google Maps API, demonstrating functionalit
Episode 8: Decoding Pinecone Summit: Generative AI, Vector Databases, and FileMaker Insights with Cris Ippolite and the Portage Bay team.
Join Portage Bay Solutions and Cris Ippolite, a renowned leader in the Claris FileMaker community, as they unpack the highlights from the Pinecone Summit held in San Francisco. Dive deep into the world of generative AI, explore the significance of vector databases, and understand their synergy with FileMaker. With over 800 global attendees, the summit was a melting pot of insights, innovations, an
Episode 7: Unlocking Creativity with Claris Studio: The Future of App Development
Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the capabilities of Claris Studio, the latest offering from Claris International. More than just a development tool, Claris Studio promises to redefine how we approach and appreciate app creation. Rather than just talking about it, we'll be demonstrating some of its standout features live on the show. Witness firsthand the innovation and simpli
Episode 6: Masking Identities: Incorporating Data Depersonalization in FileMaker Pro
In today's digital world, securing personal data has never been more critical. Tune into our latest episode where we delve deep into the world of data depersonalization using FileMaker. We'll unpack the steps to anonymize sensitive data, ensuring robust privacy protection without losing the ability to analyze and utilize information effectively.Joining us in this enlightening journey is the team o
Episode 5: REST Easy: Accomplishing API Integration with Postman
In this enlightening episode, Portage Bay Solutions, a seasoned player in the field of Claris FileMaker development, takes you behind the scenes to illustrate how Postman can streamline API integration. Tune in as they reveal key techniques, share invaluable tips, and demonstrate how to efficiently integrate Postman into your developer workflow. Whether you're new to FileMaker or a seasoned pro lo
Episode 4: Filemaker 2023 Unveiled: Revolutionizing Database Design and Beyond!
Welcome to 'FileMaker 2023 Unveiled: Revolutionizing Database Design and Beyond!' - your go-to source for everything FileMaker 2023. Join us as we dive into the exciting new features of this game-changing release with the experts at Portage Bay Solutions. Get an insider's perspective through exclusive interviews with Rick Kalman, Director of Project Management at Claris, and Ronnie Rios, Product O
Episode 3: Skilled FileMaker Development: Expert Tips and Tricks for Success
In this episode of the DevCast podcast, we delve into some expert tips and tricks to take your FileMaker development skills to the next level. Our experienced guest speakers will share their insights on using custom keyboard shortcuts, selection tools, fences, Visual Studio (VS) Code, and the MBS plug-in. Whether you're a seasoned FileMaker developer or just starting out, these practical tips and
Episode 2: Revolutionizing Claris FileMaker Development with ChatGPT: A Conversation with Experts
In this episode of The FileMaker DevCast, we explore how ChatGPT, a cutting-edge language model developed by OpenAI, is transforming the way Claris FileMaker developers approach their work. Our experts from Portage Bay Solutions delve into how Chat GPT can be used to streamline development processes, improve productivity, and enhance the overall quality of Claris FileMaker solutions. We will look
Episode 1: OAUTH 2.0: Understanding and Implementing the Industry Standard Security Protocol for Google APIs
Join our team of developers as we dive deep into the world of OAUTH 2.0, the industry standard security protocol used for secure communication between different systems. In this podcast, we'll discuss how OAUTH 2.0 is used to talk to Google APIs and allow users to sign in using their Google credentials. We'll also walk you through the setup process and provide tips on what to look out for to ensur
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