Performance testing often fails for one simple reason: teams can't see where the slowdown actually happens.

In this episode, we explore Locust load testing and why Python-based performance testing is becoming the go-to choice for modern DevOps, QA, and SRE teams. You'll learn how Locust enables highly realistic user behavior, massive concurrency, and distributed load testing — without the overhead of traditional enterprise tools.

We also dive into:

Why Python works so well for AI-assisted load testing

• How Locust fits naturally into CI/CD and GitHub Actions
• The real difference between load testing vs performance testing
• How observability and end-to-end tracing eliminate guesswork
• Common performance testing mistakes even experienced teams make

Whether you're a software tester, automation engineer, or QA leader looking to shift-left performance testing, this conversation will help you design smarter tests and catch scalability issues before your users do.

This is a special end-of-year episode of the Automation Testing Podcast.

With family in town and a busy holiday season, Joe didn't want to skip a week without checking in and saying thank you to the TestGuild community.

In this short episode, Joe shares:

A huge milestone as the podcast approaches its 13-year anniversary

Why the Automation Testing Podcast is moving from Sundays to Tuesdays starting in 2026

How loyal listeners can still get $100 off a full 5-day Automation Guild 2026 pass

A sneak peek at TestGuild IRL — live, in-person events coming next year

Gratitude for the listeners, YouTube community, and sponsors who make TestGuild possible

If you're a software tester, automation engineer, or QA leader looking ahead to 2026, this episode lays out what's coming — and how to stay connected.

Discount code: 100GUILDCOIN (https://testguild.me/podag26)
Questions or ideas? Email Joe directly at joe@testguild.com

As always — test everything, and keep the good.