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, specialist...
Jun 27, 2025•20 min•Ep. 136
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 need to ...
Jun 20, 2025•15 min•Ep. 135
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 a...
Jun 13, 2025•7 min•Ep. 134
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 • How i...
Jun 06, 2025•13 min•Ep. 133
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 go...
May 30, 2025•17 min•Ep. 132
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 cert...
May 23, 2025•25 min•Ep. 131
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 transition into a full-blown MSP for recur...
May 16, 2025•16 min•Ep. 130
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 comparisons be...
May 09, 2025•8 min•Ep. 129
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 s...
May 02, 2025•14 min•Ep. 128
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...
Apr 25, 2025•24 min•Ep. 127
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 ...
Apr 18, 2025•18 min•Ep. 126
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 cert...
Apr 11, 2025•24 min•Ep. 125
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 & Cryptogr...
Apr 04, 2025•15 min•Ep. 124
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...
Mar 28, 2025•10 min•Ep. 123
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 focu...
Mar 21, 2025•9 min•Ep. 122
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 its ...
Mar 14, 2025•18 min•Ep. 121
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 newslette...
Mar 07, 2025•16 min•Ep. 120
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 I...
Feb 28, 2025•21 min•Ep. 119
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...
Feb 21, 2025•26 min•Ep. 118
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...
Feb 14, 2025•22 min•Ep. 117
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 fas...
Feb 07, 2025•32 min•Ep. 116
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 fixin...
Jan 31, 2025•19 min•Ep. 115
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 allows y...
Jan 24, 2025•17 min•Ep. 114
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...
Jan 17, 2025•31 min•Ep. 113
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 and...
Jan 10, 2025•22 min•Ep. 112
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...
Jan 03, 2025•22 min•Ep. 111
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 ...
Dec 27, 2024•16 min•Ep. 110
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 ti...
Dec 20, 2024•13 min•Ep. 109
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....
Dec 13, 2024•15 min•Ep. 108
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 questions...
Dec 06, 2024•22 min•Ep. 107
