Debt Free In IT w/ Mike

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Today’s episode comes straight from a listener question:
They’re 41 years old, thinking about entering the tech field, starting a bootcamp soon, and wanted my honest opinion about beginning an IT career at their age — and what I think about job placement programs.

In this episode, I break down the truth about starting a tech career later in life, why being 41 is actually an advantage, and what you should expect when you sign up for a bootcamp. I also talk about the realities of job placement programs and share the mindset you need to make this career transition work.

Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond — this is your reminder that tech doesn’t care about your age. It cares about your skills, consistency, and execution.

What You’ll Learn Today:
•Why being 41 makes you a safer and more reliable investment to employers
•How tech is full of career switchers (and why 41 is still “early” for a 20+ year career)
•The #1 rule of bootcamps: if you start it, finish it
•The real truth behind job placement programs
•My advice to make a bootcamp actually work in your favor

If you’re serious about breaking into IT, this episode is packed with clarity, direction, and motivation to help you start strong.

⸻



🛒 My Amazon Store:
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⸻

#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


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Today we’re taking a real-world look at IT certifications—what they actually do for your career, why they’re still valuable, and how they can help you break into tech or level up into a better role. Certifications don’t guarantee you a job, but they do give you the fundamentals, the confidence, and the visibility you need to get in the room and stand out from the competition.

In this episode, I cover:
• How certifications create a fast path into tech
• Why certs help you stand out in a crowded job market
• How certifications increase your earning potential
• How certs attract new opportunities (even when you’re not looking)
• Why certifications give beginners structure, clarity, and a roadmap

Whether you’re brand new to IT or trying to advance your career, this episode breaks down the practical benefits of getting certified.

⸻



🛒 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
******************************************
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Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
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Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com


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

Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here 

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In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the AI certifications you should be looking at. If you’re trying to get into IT, level up your skills, or stay relevant as AI continues to change the tech world, these certs will help you get ahead.

I cover beginner certs, cloud AI paths, and new AI security certifications that will play a big role in future tech jobs.

⸻

🔥 What We Cover

• CompTIA SecAI+ – AI + cybersecurity
• Cisco AITECH – Hands-on AI skills for IT pros
• Microsoft AI-900 – AI fundamentals for beginners
• Azure AI Engineer Associate – Build AI solutions on Azure
• AWS AI Practitioner – Intro to AI/ML on AWS

⸻

💡 Who This Helps

Beginners, career changers, helpdesk, cloud, networking, cybersecurity, and anyone adding AI to their tech stack.

⸻



🛒 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
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Linkedin: Michael Bowden

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Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, I answer the top five questions I get about the CCNA certification.
If you’re trying to figure out the best path — CCNA, Network+, or CCST — this video will help you choose what’s right for you.

⸻

What I Cover:
•Net+ vs CCNA — which one is better to start with
•Which cert has more respect in the industry
•College course vs self-study for the CCNA
•What to do after A+ if you’re aiming for networking
•CCST vs Network+ when planning to move into the CCNA

⸻



🛒 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 Fan Mail

What separates the top IT pros from the rest? It’s not luck — it’s habits. 💡

In this episode, I’m breaking down The 5 Habits of Every Successful IT Professional — the mindset and skills that keep them growing, relevant, and respected in the industry.

💻 Here’s what you’ll learn:
1️⃣ Continuous Learning — Why the best IT pros never stop improving their skills.
2️⃣ Hands-On Practice — How building your own lab takes your knowledge from theory to real-world skill.
3️⃣ Problem-Solving Mindset — Staying calm, confident, and effective when everything goes wrong.
4️⃣ Teaching & Sharing Knowledge — How mentoring others helps you master your craft.
5️⃣ Deep Expertise in One Area — Why focusing on one specialty over time separates good from great.

⸻



🛒 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 Fan Mail

When it comes to IT certifications, not all certs are created equal. Some get you interviews — others get you hired.

In this video, I’m breaking down the certifications that actually move the needle and help you land real IT jobs — whether you’re just getting started or leveling up.

💻 Here’s what you’ll learn:
• CCNA — Why this networking cert is still one of the most valuable for landing your first role.
• Security+ — The gold standard for cybersecurity beginners and government roles.
• Linux+ / LPIC / RHCSA — Why Linux is the most underrated career booster in IT.
• Cloud (AWS & Azure) — The new must-have skillset for 2025 and beyond.
• PMP & CSM — The project management certs that prove you can lead, organize, and deliver results.

🔑 Key Takeaway:
Don’t waste time chasing every certification — focus on the ones that build skills, credibility, and momentum toward your dream IT role.


🛒 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 Fan Mail

When it comes to IT, it’s not all certifications and six-figure salaries — there’s The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.

In today’s episode, I’m keeping it real about what I love about this industry, what frustrates me, and what I honestly wish would change. Whether you’re just getting started or already deep in your IT career, this one’s for you.

💻 You’ll Learn:
• The Good — why IT can be life-changing when you manage it right
• The Bad — what makes this career rewarding but frustrating at times
• The Ugly — the hard truths nobody talks about (entry-level struggles, politics, and job hopping)

If you’ve ever wondered what working in IT is really like, I’m breaking it down from experience — the highs, the lows, and everything in between.



Drop your thoughts in the comments — and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly episodes on IT careers, certifications, and success in tech.

🛒 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 Fan Mail

In this episode of Debt Free in IT w/ Mike, we dive into a listener question that goes beyond certifications and career advice — it’s about appearance, professionalism, and identity in tech.

A listener asked if having locs could hold them back from opportunities in the IT industry.
I share my personal perspective, real experiences, and how the face of tech has changed over the years.

You’ll learn:
💬 Why professionalism is about presence, not hair
💻 Why tech cares more about skills and results than looks
👕 How to be yourself but stay presentable
🧠 Why company culture and comfort matter more than appearance
⚡ And why confidence always wins



Drop your thoughts in the comments — and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly episodes on IT careers, certifications, and success in tech.

🛒 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 Fan Mail

When it comes to getting rich in tech, success leaves clues. In this episode of Debt Free in IT, I’m breaking down the top 5 ways people are building wealth in the tech industry — from climbing the salary ladder to freelancing, building a personal brand, joining startups, and leveraging AI.

Whether you’re just starting out, changing careers, or looking for your next big move, these proven paths can help you chart your own course toward financial freedom in IT.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
 • Why the salary ladder is still the most common path — and how far it can take you.
 • How freelancing & consulting can turn weekend gigs into a thriving business.
 • The power of content and building your personal brand in tech.
 • How startup equity and ownership create tech millionaires.
 • Why AI mastery is today’s biggest wealth multiplier.


🛒 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 Fan Mail

Feeling stuck in your career? No growth, no money, no future? It might be time to hit The Reset Button.

In this episode, I break down why people change careers and what it really takes to make the move — whether you’re coming into IT from another industry or pivoting inside IT into a new role.

You’ll learn:
•The #1 reasons people hit reset (money + lack of growth).
•How to break into IT if you’re starting fresh (certs, skills, mindset).
•Smart ways to pivot inside IT without starting from scratch.
•Common pitfalls that slow people down.
•The mindset and sacrifices required to make a reset stick.
•First steps you can take this week to start your transition.

If you’re thinking about changing jobs or careers, this episode will help you figure out if now is the time — and how to make your reset successful.





🛒 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