Audio Episodes

Send us a text Age is not a barrier in tech — skills are. In this video, I break down why networking is still one of the best foundations you can start with, and how the CCST can help you build confidence before moving into bigger certifications. This video also answers a common question: Should you study for the CCST, or skip ahead into cloud? Here’s what we cover: ✅ Why age is NOT a barrier in IT ✅ Why the CCST is a smart starting point for networking ✅ How networking builds the foundatio...

Send us a text Wireless might feel like a lost art form — nobody says “I want to be a wireless engineer” — but every campus, hospital, and stadium depends on Wi-Fi. And now Cisco is reviving wireless with a brand-new certification track launching March 2026. In this episode, I break down: ✅ Where CCNA fits into the wireless journey ✅ The path from Wireless Foundations → CCNP Wireless → CCIE Wireless ✅ What’s changing with ENCOR and Enterprise certs ✅ Salary potential for Wireless Engineers (...

Send us a text 💻 In IT, confidence is everything. But let’s be real—there are times when you feel behind, like everyone else knows more than you, and you start questioning if you even belong. I’ve been there too. In this episode of Debt Free in IT, I break down 5 practical ways to build real confidence in tech—the kind of confidence that comes from action, progress, and proving to yourself that you’ve got what it takes. What you’ll learn: ✅ Why labs build confidence faster than books ✅ How ...

Send us a text 💻 In IT, every move you make is an investment—whether it’s studying for certs, building new skills, or the years you give to a company. But not all investments pay off the same. In this episode, I’m breaking down 5 ways to maximize your ROI as an IT professional so your time, money, and energy all pay you back. What You’ll Learn in This Video: ✅ Why switching jobs (and sometimes companies) can 10x your pay ✅ The most in-demand skills to target in 2025 (Linux, Cloud, Cybersecur...

Send us a text Most of us like to stay in our comfort zones — it feels safe, predictable, and easy. But looking back on my IT career, the biggest growth came when I stepped out of mine. In this episode, I break down the three career moves that pushed me the hardest, why they were so intimidating at the time, and how each one shaped me into the IT professional I am today. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: •How my first IT role taught me to thrive under pressure •Why moving from helpdesk to ...

Send us a text Helpdesk isn’t a dead end. It’s your launchpad. In this video: ✅ Key skills you take with you ✅ Top jobs to target after helpdesk ✅ Certs to help you make the jump ✅ How to move up faster Whether you want networking, sysadmin, apps, or security — this is your roadmap out. 💬 Comment: Which role are you going after? 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 h...

Send us a text In this episode, I answer a common question I get all the time—what are the best video resources to study for the CCNA? Having earned my CCNA three times over the course of my IT journey, I break down: ✅ My personal study experience ✅ Free and paid CCNA training video options ✅ What worked best for me ✅ Recommendations based on your budget and learning style ⸻ 🔧 Resources Mentioned in This Video: 🎥 Free Options: • Jeremy’s IT Lab (YouTube) – Highly recommended by the ...

Send us a text Are you stuck overthinking your next move in tech? Wondering if you should go to school, self-study, or which cert to start with? In this episode of Debt Free in IT, I’m giving you the realest advice I’ve ever received—and now I’m passing it on to you: 👉 JUST START. I’ll break down 5 key truths that will help you stop second-guessing and start making moves toward your IT career. We’re talking about: •Why there will never be a perfect time •How you don’t need all the answers t...

Send us a text In this video, I break down Wireshark—the powerful network protocol analyzer—and why it’s a must-have tool for IT pros, from troubleshooting slow networks to identifying security threats. Then I dive into the Wireshark Certified Analyst (WCA) certification: ✔️ Who it’s for ✔️ What the exam covers ✔️ What it costs ✔️ And whether it’s worth your time https://www.wireshark.org/certifications 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debt...

Send us a text Today’s episode is inspired by a listener question: “I have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and I’m applying for entry-level IT technician and help desk roles in Canada. How can I prepare for the interviews?” In this episode, I break down exactly how to get interview-ready: ✅ How to research the company and role ✅ What to expect in different interview stages ✅ Common questions you’ll face (and how to answer them) ✅ How to handle technical questions and hig...

Send us a text If you have a Cisco certification that’s about to expire, this video is for you. Most certs expire after 3 years—and trust me, that time flies. In this episode, I break down: • The different ways you can renew your CCNA or any Cisco cert • How I personally renewed mine (and almost missed the deadline) • Free tools and resources that helped me • Tips to make your renewal stress-free • My plan for the next 3 years after renewal (Linux + Cloud) Whether you’re an associate, speci...

Send us a text Last week, I attended Cisco Live in San Diego, and in this episode, I’m breaking down my experience — from the sessions and networking to the real value (and cost) of one of the biggest tech conferences in the world. ⸻ 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Why I attended Cisco Live • What the experience was like – from breakout sessions to the World of Solutions expo • My favorite session topics: certifications, labs, and hands-on demos • Tips for first-timers: what you...

Send us a text 🚨 Big changes are coming to Cisco’s certification program in 2026 — and if you’re in IT or thinking about getting certified, you need to hear this. In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about Cisco’s updated cert tracks, including: 🔹 DevNet is now the Automation Track (CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE Automation) 🔹 New Cybersecurity titles: CCNA & CCNP Cybersecurity 🔹 Major updates to the CCNP Collaboration certification 🔹 What these changes mean for your career an...

Send us a text Sometimes the biggest thing in your way… is you. In this episode, I’m breaking down 5 key mindset shifts that helped me grow in my IT career — from overthinking and fear of failure to finally embracing the learning process. If you’re trying to level up in tech, this is the kind of clarity you need. ⸻ 🧠 What You’ll Learn: • Why you’re not expected to know everything in IT • How mistakes helped me learn (not hold me back) • The mindset shift that made troubleshooting easier •...

Send us a text Today’s episode is all about Gatekeeping in IT — the folks who hold on to knowledge, block access to tools, and don’t want to see you grow… because deep down, they’re afraid you’ll pass them up. 🎙 I break down: •Real examples of what IT gatekeeping looks like •Why people gatekeep (fear, ego, insecurity) •And most importantly, how to break through it — with strategy and confidence 💡 One thing I’ve learned? Sometimes the thing they try to block you from is the very thing that’s...

Send us a text Are you looking to break into tech but not sure where to start? In this episode, I walk you through 5 IT career paths that are perfect for career changers — and the best entry-level certifications for each one. Whether you’re coming from retail, healthcare, or just tired of your 9 to 5, this video gives you a roadmap to get hired in IT. ⸻ 🧠 What You’ll Learn: •The best certs for Help Desk & IT Support •Desktop Support roles and the hands-on skills that matter •Networking...

Send us a text Today’s episode comes straight from a listener question: “Do you have any advice on becoming a freelance network engineer — and is it possible within a year?” 🧠 What You’ll Learn: • How to decide if this will be a side hustle or a business • Why starting an LLC might help you stay focused • How to figure out what services to offer and what to charge • The platforms I’d use to find clients (Upwork, FieldNation, and more) • When and how to transitio...

Send us a text 💻 Windows vs. Linux: Which Skills Pay More in IT? Most of us know Windows — it’s familiar, user-friendly, and still dominant in most IT shops. But Linux? That’s where the real money starts to show up — especially in cloud, DevOps, and cybersecurity. 🎯 In this episode, I break down: •The real pros of knowing Windows vs. Linux as an admin •Which one helps you get hired faster •Which one helps you earn more •How each OS shows up in different roles and industries •Pay comparison...

Send us a text If you’re 40+, you’re not starting over — you’re transferring over. In this video, I break down real-world skills you already have and match them to real tech roles that need them. 🧠 Problem Solving → IT Support, Networking, Cybersecurity 📅 Organization & Planning → Project Management 🗣️ Customer Service & Communication → Help Desk 📊 Financial Management → Cybersecurity Compliance & GRC 💡 These aren’t soft skills — they’re superpowers. Drop a comment: What’s ONE skill you alrea...

Send us a text Thinking about starting a career in IT? Not sure if you should go the networking route… or jump into cybersecurity? In this episode, I break down what each role really looks like — and help you figure out which one matches your goals, lifestyle, and interests. 🛠 Daily tasks 🧭 Career paths 💼 Work styles 🌍 Remote potential 👀 My take? I’ll share what I started with and why it made sense for me. #ITCareers #Networking #Cybersecurity #CCNA #SecurityPlus #DebtFreeinIT ⸻ 🛒 My Amazo...

Send us a text 🎯 Want Hands-On IT Practice? Studying for your CCNA? Breaking into cybersecurity or the cloud? Today’s video breaks down the best online labs, emulators, and real gear to sharpen your technical skills — even if you’re just starting. ⸻ 🔧 Cisco Labs You’ll Learn About: ✅ Cisco Packet Tracer (Free) ✅ Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) ✅ Cisco DevNet Sandbox (Free) ✅ Boson NetSim (Paid) ⸻ 🧠 Network Emulators (Multi-Vendor): 🔹 GNS3 (Free) 🔹 EVE-NG (Free & Paid) 🔹 Plus: My thoughts on real C...

Send us a text If you’re grinding for your CCNA or wondering what kind of jobs you can land after certification — this one’s for you. Inspired by a post from Cisco Genius on YouTube, I break down 6 real jobs you can get with your CCNA — from Network Analyst to Pre-Sales Engineer. I’ll walk you through: ✅ What each job typically does ✅ Where you might work ✅ Average salary 💰 ✅ Tools & skills used on the job Whether you’re new to IT or switching careers, the CCNA is still one of the best certs ...

Send us a text CompTIA just rebranded CASP+ to SecurityX, and in today’s episode, I break down what changed, why it matters, and whether this cert is right for you. 👨🏾‍💻 What Is SecurityX? — For pros with 10+ years IT + 5 years hands-on security — Built for senior roles: Security Architect, Engineer, SOC Manager — Follows Security+ in the cert path (not for beginners) 🧠 Skills You’ll Learn — Security Architecture — Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) — Security Engineering & Cryptography — Ope...

Send us a text If your CCNA or any Cisco Associate-level certification is expiring soon, this video is for you! 🎯 In this episode, I break down Cisco’s Rev Up to Recert: AI Solutions on Cisco Infrastructure Essentials (DCAIE)—a free learning path on Cisco U. that gives you 34 Continuing Education (CE) credits—more than enough to recertify your CCNA without retesting or spending another $300+. 🧠 You’ll learn: •What the Rev Up to Recert program is •What the DCAIE course covers (AI, Cisco infrast...