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/debtfreeinitwmike

📬 The Log Files Newsletter:
Real tips to break into IT.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 highlight your soft skills
✅ Why mindset and learning from each interview are key



🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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, or working toward a professional-level cert — this episode is packed with practical info to help you stay certified and move forward.

🛠️ Resources I Mentioned:

• Boson Exam Sim

• Cisco U Free Courses: 

https://u.cisco.com/explore?number_of_credits=1-30&subscription=1

https://u.cisco.com/explore?number_of_credits=31-60&subscription=1

• Cisco Live (for CE credits & exam access)



🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 do before you go


🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 and how to plan ahead
🔹 Key dates to remember — including when new exam topics drop

Cisco getting ready for the future of networking: AI, cloud, and automation.

📅 Changes go live February 3, 2026
📥 Be ready. Be first. Start planning your next move now.


🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 imposter syndrome actually means you’re leveling up
• Why staying in learning mode is your real superpower
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.



🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 gonna help you stand out.



🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 certs that get you noticed (CCNA, Network+)
•Entry-level Cybersecurity certifications (Security+, ISC2 CC)
•Cloud certs for beginners (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
•How to choose your first cert and role — based on YOUR goals

ISC2 CC Certification:https://www.isc2.org/landing/1mcc



🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes every week! See you next time!


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 recurring income
 • Book rec: Managed Services in a Month by Karl Palachuk (link below)
⸻
📚 Resources Mentioned:
 • Managed Services in a Month by Karl Palachuk: https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike
 • Freelance platforms to explore: Upwork, FieldNation, Fiverr


🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes every week! See you next time!


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show

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 between entry-level and senior roles

👀 If you’re asking:
•“Do I really need to learn Linux?”
•“Is Windows still relevant?”
•“Which one makes me more valuable?”

This one’s for you.

🧠 Bottom line:
Windows gets you in the door — Linux helps you run the place.

👇 Drop a comment:
Which OS do you know better — and how has it helped in your IT journey?

#Linux #WindowsAdmin #ITCareers #DevOps #CloudEngineering #DebtFreeinIT
⸻

🛒 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.
👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe

⸻

#CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit 

💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at [email protected]!

🌐 Connect with me:
📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT
🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com

🎧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes every week! See you next time!


Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT


*This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission


*****************************************
Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike
******************************************
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email [email protected]

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl

Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!)

IG: @debtfreeinit
TikTok: @debtfreeinit
Linkedin: Michael Bowden

Support the show