Audio Episodes

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...

Send us a text In this episode, I answer a popular listener question: “What’s more important for a new network engineer—learning Python or understanding Cloud?” We break down the difference between traditional vs. modern network engineer roles, explore the benefits of learning Python for automation, and discuss why cloud skills are essential in today’s hybrid networking environments. ✅ Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up, this episode gives you a clear roadmap on where to fo...

Send us a text Today, we're diving into the key highlights from the Dice Tech Salary Report for 2024! This report reveals critical insights every tech professional needs to know, including the average salaries, hottest skills, and major industry trends like AI and machine learning. We’ll explore: The average tech salary for 2024: Top 5 states with the highest tech salaries The most impactful tech changes in the past 20 years according to seasoned IT professionals Career mobility in tech and...

Send us a text In this episode, I break down the SAL1 (Security Analyst Level 1) Certification by TryHackMe! If you’re looking to get into cybersecurity and want a hands-on, practical certification, this one might be for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Who the SAL1 certification is for ✅ How it compares to CySA+, BTL1, and CDSA ✅ Topics covered in the exam ✅ Exam structure and cost ✅ My thoughts on whether it’s worth it Don’t forget to sign up for The Log Files, my new weekly newsle...

Send us a text 🚀 The IT industry is changing! More professionals are ditching traditional 9-to-5 jobs for freelancing, consulting, and contract work. But is freelancing really the future, or is full-time employment still the best move? In this video, we’re comparing Freelancing vs. Full-Time IT Jobs—breaking down earnings, flexibility, career growth, and more! 💡 Freelance Platforms Mentioned: 🔹 Upwork – Great for IT freelancers (software dev, networking, cybersecurity) 🔹 Fiverr – Gig-based IT j...

Send us a text You put in the work, passed your CCNA, and now you’re wondering what’s next. The job search can feel overwhelming, especially with no experience, but don’t worry—I got you! In this video, I’ll break down everything you need to land your first IT job, even if you’re starting from scratch. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Video: ✅ Where to Find Entry-Level Networking Jobs (Best job boards, recruiters, and hidden opportunities) ✅ Top IT & Networking Roles to Apply For (Help Desk, NOC Te...

Send us a text Is networking really dead? In today’s episode, I break down why so many people are avoiding network engineering, the common misconceptions about the field, and why this actually creates a huge opportunity for those willing to evolve. 🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The cons of being a network engineer (office vs. remote work, high stress, and hands-on responsibilities) ✅ The misconceptions (low pay, cloud replacing networking, AI making it obsolete) ✅ The opportunity (less...

Send us a text Thinking about transitioning into tech at 40+? Wondering if it's too late to start a career in IT? Let me tell you straight up—it’s not too late. In fact, you actually have an unfair advantage over younger job seekers, and I’m breaking down exactly why in this episode. 💡 The best time to start in IT was yesterday—the next best time is today. Watch until the end to learn: ✅ Why 40+ is an unfair advantage in tech ✅ The biggest misconception about starting IT later in life ✅ The fa...

Send us a text If you’re trying to break into IT in 2025, this video is for you! Today, I’m breaking down the must-have entry-level IT skills to help you land your first job. Whether you’re aiming for help desk, IT support, or operations, these are the skills you need to know! Skills Mentioned in the Video: 🔹 Technical: Networking Basics (IP, DNS, DHCP), Operating Systems (Windows, MacOS, Linux), Hardware & Software Troubleshooting, Ticketing Systems 🔹 Problem-Solving: Diagnosing and fixing iss...

Send us a text In this episode, we tackle a popular listener question: "Can I study CCNA and Network+ together?" Spoiler alert: I advise against it, and here’s why. 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Overview of Certifications: What are CCNA (Cisco) and Network+ (CompTIA), and how do they differ? Why You Shouldn’t Study Both at Once: How studying for both certifications can cause confusion due to differing exam blueprints and depths. Why focusing on one certification at a time allo...

Send us a text That Thing: Help Desk vs. Data Center Technician – Which IT Role Fits You?" Trying to decide between a career as a Help Desk Technician or a Data Center Technician? In this episode, we break it all down to help you figure out 📌 What’s Inside This Video: Day-to-Day Work: Explore the differences in responsibilities and work environments for Help Desk and Data Center Technicians. Skills & Certifications: Find out what knowledge and certifications (like A+, Network+, or CCNA) you’...

Send us a text Juniper Certifications vs. Cisco Certifications: Which Is Right for You? Today’s video comes from a viewer comment asking about the value of Juniper certifications. We’re diving into: What makes Juniper Networks unique in the networking space. A breakdown of Juniper's certification tracks and how they compare to Cisco's. The pros and cons of pursuing Juniper certifications, including their value for specific roles like ISPs or companies using Juniper equipment. Salary insights a...

Send us a text 🎯 My 2025 Goals: Reflecting, Growing, and Hustling Harder 🎯 As 2024 comes to a close, I’m taking a moment to reflect on my progress this year and set my sights on some big goals for 2025. From crushing personal milestones to stepping up my professional game and leveling up my podcast, this year is all about focus, consistency, and growth. ✨ What I Cover in This Video: ✔️ Reflecting on 2024: Wins, lessons learned, and where I’m headed next. ✔️ Personal Goals: Paying down debt, hi...

Send us a text 🎉 What an incredible year for DebtFreeinIT w/ Mike! Join me as I share the highlights and milestones of 2024, including: - 54 consistent podcast uploads - Growing to 2,937 subscribers (+1,875 this year!) - Reaching 148,890 views in 2024 (276,575 total) I'm breaking down my favorite episodes, the challenges I overcame (including a complete studio relocation), and sharing exciting plans for 2025 including live streams, interviews, coaching sessions, and the launch of my newsletter...

Send us a text In today’s episode, we’re tackling the one thing that holds most people back—analysis paralysis. Whether you’re trying to start your IT journey, learn a new skill, or take that next big step, overthinking can keep you stuck in place. If you’ve ever second-guessed yourself, overanalyzed your options, or waited for the “perfect time” to get started—this episode is for you. I’ll break down: ✅ What analysis paralysis is. ✅ How it affects your ability to move forward. ✅ 5 actionable ...

Send us a text Looking for an IT career that won’t leave you stressed out? In today’s video, I’m breaking down 5 of the least stressful jobs in IT that can help you grow your career while maintaining peace of mind. Whether you’re new to tech or transitioning into the field, these roles offer great opportunities with minimal pressure. 🎙️ Quick Shoutout: Get ready for my upcoming newsletter, The Log Files, packed with actionable advice, resources, and insights to kickstart or grow your IT career...

Send us a text In this episode, we tackle a listener question from someone who just made a huge career leap from help desk to network engineer after earning their CCNA certification. Transitioning into a new role is challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for incredible growth! I share: ✅ Personal experiences from my journey from desktop support to networking. ✅ Practical tips for building confidence with physical equipment, learning on the job, and leaning on your team. ✅ Why asking question...

Send us a text Are you ready to break into the IT industry but unsure where to start? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the 5 best traditional ways to get into IT. Whether you’re interested in networking, cybersecurity, cloud, or coding, there’s a high demand for skilled professionals—and that’s not changing anytime soon. We’ll cover: ✔️ Entry-level certifications like A+, Network+, and CCNA ✔️ Gaining hands-on experience through home labs, internships, and volunteering ✔️ Building your per...

Send us a text In this episode, I share 5 everyday corporate apps that could be your gateway into IT. From tools like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Salesforce, to platforms like ServiceNow and Active Directory, these apps are used daily and supported by IT professionals. I’ll also cover the certifications that can help you transition into a tech role. 💡 Don’t Miss This: ✅ How these apps connect to IT roles. ✅ Certifications to boost your career. ✅ Practical tips for breaking into tech...

Send us a text In today’s episode, I respond to a listener’s question about breaking into the tech industry and learning the basics. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to begin, this video is for you! I’ll share insights on the best learning paths, potential challenges, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re considering school, bootcamps, or self-study, this episode provides the motivation and direction you need to take your first steps in tech. If you enjoy this content,...