Summary: In this episode of Them Tech Folks, Rico Randall and Ebonyy engage with Kevin J. Foster Sr., a cybersecurity operations coordinator, as he shares his journey from restaurant management to a successful career in cybersecurity. Kevin discusses his early interest in technology, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the importance of mentorship in helping others achieve their dreams. He also highlights the significance of certifications in the field and shares insights on teaching cybersecurity principles. In this engaging conversation, Rico Randall and Kevin J. Foster Sr. explore the dynamic field of cybersecurity, discussing the importance of continuous training, the core responsibilities of security professionals, and the challenges faced when transitioning between roles. They delve into the significance of personality alignment in professional settings and share insights on staying current in the ever-evolving tech landscape. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mindset and personal development, highlighting how a proactive approach can lead to significant career advancements.

Takeaways:

• Kevin J. Foster Sr. is a cybersecurity operations coordinator.
• He transitioned from restaurant management to cybersecurity.
• His journey began with a tech school for certifications.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in his career.
• He emphasizes the importance of telling others your career aspirations.
• Certifications like Security Plus and GSEC are vital in cybersecurity.
• Kevin advocates for work-study programs to reduce certification costs.
• He finds gratification in helping others realize their career dreams.
• Teaching foundational courses is his favorite part of the job.
• Cybersecurity has many fields, and it's important to find your niche. Training is essential for growth in cybersecurity.
• Data protection is a universal goal across industries.
• Transitioning roles can be stressful but rewarding.
• Understanding personality traits can enhance team dynamics.
• Staying current in tech requires continuous learning.
• Mindset is crucial for career success.
• Taking breaks can prevent burnout in demanding fields.
• Engaging teaching methods can make learning enjoyable.
• Networking and mentorship are vital for career development.
• Personal development should be a continuous journey.

Find Us:

• Rico Randall
• Ebony Pierce
• Kevin J. Foster Sr.

Keywords: cybersecurity, career journey, mentorship, certifications, teaching, IT, professional development, Security Plus, GSEC, SANS, cybersecurity, training, data protection, career transition, personality tests, professional development, staying current, mindset, personal growth, GRC

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Find Us:

• Rico Randall (DevelopEveryMind.com)
• Tiffany Bryant (StatsonStats.io)
• Edwin Sarmiento

Keywords: Riverside, post-production, tech consulting, disaster recovery, data management, cybersecurity, compliance, Microsoft SQL Server, consulting, high availability, consulting, technology, leadership, community building, education, career development, AI, vulnerability, learning, tech industry

Summary: In this conversation, Tiffany Bryant and Rico Randall discuss various aspects of technology with Edwin Sarmiento as well as how he got into the industry. The conversation delves into the his transition from being a generalist to a specialist in tech, the critical role of data in disaster recovery, the importance of a cybersecurity mindset, and the nuances of consulting in tech. Edwin shares his journey from the Philippines to Canada, his experiences with natural disasters, and how they shaped his approach to high availability and disaster recovery solutions. Edwin M Sarmiento shares his insights on the importance of addressing people and process issues in organizations, rather than just focusing on technology. He emphasizes the value of vulnerability in leadership, the significance of community building in tech, and the debate between formal education and practical experience. Edwin also discusses the cyclical nature of technology and the need for curiosity and foundational knowledge in a rapidly evolving landscape, particularly in the context of AI. 

Takeaways:

• Riverside has improved post-production capabilities significantly.
• Transitioning from generalist to specialist can enhance expertise.
• Data is essential for all tech-related solutions.
• Cybersecurity should be viewed as a mindset, not just a role.
• Consultants should focus on asking the right questions to fill knowledge gaps.
• High availability and disaster recovery are crucial in tech.
• Understanding compliance is vital for tech consultants.
• Natural disasters can inform better disaster recovery strategies.
• Community and documentation are key in tech industries.
• The human element is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. Every technical problem is a people and process problem first.
• The importance of meeting teams physically to understand issues.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters better communication and problem-solving.
• Teaching is a way to master new skills and concepts.
• Curiosity and foundational knowledge are key to understanding technology.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process and should be embraced.
• Community building is essential for supporting newcomers in tech.
• Degrees may not be necessary if practical experience is gained.
• History repeats itself in technology; understanding patterns is crucial.
• Action is more important than information in achieving goals.

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In this episode of Dem Tech Folks Podcast, DEM Tech Folks interview Jose Lopez, CEO of Global Shock Technology. They discuss Jose's journey from military service to a successful career in tech, particularly in cybersecurity. Jose shares insights on the importance of specialization, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian roles, and the lessons learned from his experiences. The conversation also touches on entrepreneurship, the future of technology, and the significance of resilience in the face of adversity.

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The conversation with Tennisha Martin, founder of Black Girls Hack, a range of topics, including the challenges with finding your way, getting help in order to grow, and a discussion on diversity in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The speakers share their thoughts on bias in AI and the importance of diversity in technology fields. The conversation covers a range of topics related to diversity in tech, the impact of AI on underrepresented communities, the importance of hands-on experience in cybersecurity education, and the journey of creating and running Black Girls Hack. The speakers also discuss the need for more Black representation in the tech industry and the challenges faced by Black women in the field. The conversation delves into the significance of soft skills, career planning, and the path to achieving career goals in cybersecurity. Tennisha Martin discusses her work, personal branding, and the mission of Black Girls Hack. She also shares insights on time management, code-switching, and the importance of surrounding oneself with an amazing support system. The conversation concludes with a discussion about upcoming events and the exchange of swag.

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This episode was recorded June 05, 2023.

In this conversation, Steven Jones shares his journey in the field of technology, from his early interest in taking apart electronics as a child to joining the Navy and pursuing a career in IT. He discusses the challenges he faced in IT training, including failing certification exams, and the successes he achieved in obtaining certifications. Steven also talks about his introduction to virtualization and networking, and how he developed a passion for both areas. He reflects on his journey of exploring different IT specializations and finding his niche in the field. In this conversation, Steven Jones discusses his experience with day trading as a source of additional income. He shares his preferred trading time and explains his transition to pre-sales and sales engineer roles. Steven also discusses the travel requirements in his new roles and the work-life balance they offer. He talks about creating content and building a personal brand, and reflects on the interview experience. The conversation concludes with closing remarks, future collaboration ideas, and a promotion of the podcast and website's research survey for a training program. 

Develop Every Mind

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Summary
In this conversation, Rico Randall and his co-hosts explore the diverse journeys of individuals in the tech industry, focusing on personal stories, milestones, and the importance of communication and adaptability in professional settings. Erica Rivera shares her unique path from engineering to project management, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced along the way. The discussion also touches on the significance of code switching and how it evolves with age and experience. In this conversation, the participants explore various themes related to generational differences in work attitudes, the implications of job hopping on retirement, effective project management strategies, the importance of respect in workplace dynamics, and the critical role of diversity and inclusion in corporate culture. They also discuss the need for changing societal perceptions and role models, particularly for Black men and women, in the context of current cultural influences. In this segment, the conversation delves into the unique experiences of bartending in a strip club, highlighting the social dynamics and customer relationships that develop in such environments. Erica Rivera shares her journey of working in various bars, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and personal connections with customers. The discussion then shifts to the value of building a diverse skillset, particularly in the context of contract work in the tech industry, where Erica explains the benefits of contract roles and how they allow for financial independence and flexibility. The final part of the segment focuses on the significance of networking and maintaining relationships, especially in male-dominated spaces, and how these connections can empower individuals in their careers. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss various themes including the intersection of pop culture and sports, the importance of empowerment through knowledge, breaking stereotypes in the tech industry, navigating work-life balance, and the significance of financial goals in breaking generational curses. The dialogue is lively and filled with personal anecdotes, making it relatable and insightful. In this conversation, the participants explore themes of personal growth, mental health, and the importance of starting new endeavors. They discuss the challenges of self-reflection, the impact of trauma, and the necessity of taking time for self-care. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of understanding one's journey and the value of embracing new experiences as part of personal development.

Takeaways

• Everyone has a unique journey into tech.
• Milestones and setbacks are crucial to highlight.
• Diversity in backgrounds enriches the tech community.
• Transitioning from one field to another is common.
• Experiences in finance can lead to tech opportunities.
• Corporate housing experience can provide valuable skills.
• Project management is a vital role in tech.
• Effective communication is key in managing teams.
• Professionalism and etiquette are crucial in service roles.
• Building a diverse skillset is essential for career growth.
• Taking breaks to appreciate accomplishments is essential for mental health.
• Imposter syndrome affects many, and it's crucial to acknowledge it.
• Finding time to stop and smell the roses can lead to better mental health.
• Understanding the root causes of our behaviors can aid in personal growth.
• The younger generation is breaking the stigma around mental health.
• Starting any new endeavor is often the hardest part.
• Creating a list of goals can help in achieving personal milestones.
• Embracing new experiences can lead to personal fulfillment.

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, DEM Tech Folks discuss the journey of Davis Donacien, who shares his experiences transitioning from a background in mechanical engineering to the tech world, focusing on Linux and video production. The discussion covers the importance of networking, mentorship, and continuous learning in the tech industry, as well as the impact of AI and blockchain technology. Davis emphasizes the significance of having an end goal and the determination to overcome challenges, inspiring others to pursue their passions in technology.

Takeaways

• Davis Donacien's journey showcases the importance of mentorship.
• Networking can significantly impact career trajectories.
• Continuous learning is essential in the tech industry.
• AI and blockchain are shaping the future of technology.
• Having a clear end goal motivates perseverance.
• Overcoming challenges is part of the growth process.
• Presentation skills are as important as technical skills.
• The tech field offers diverse career paths.
• Embracing failures as learning opportunities is crucial.
• Young professionals can inspire others in the tech community.

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Summary
In this conversation, Louis discusses his journey into the tech industry and the importance of access to resources and hands-on experience. He shares his experience participating in a summer program where he learned to build a computer, which sparked his interest in technology. Louis emphasizes the value of grassroots efforts and community-led programs in providing opportunities for individuals to gain skills and navigate their own paths in the tech industry. Louis shares his journey from a young age of tinkering with computers to becoming a security leader. He emphasizes the importance of community support and the opportunities to learn and grow in different roles within a company. Louis also discusses the value of understanding the security aspects of a system by learning how to build and manage it. He highlights the significance of sharing knowledge and ideas with the community and the impact it can have on one's career. Louis concludes by teaching a pro tip on how to find the real URL behind a shortened URL. In this part of the conversation, Louis discusses his role in product security at Scale AI and the ease of training AI models. He mentions the accessibility of AI and the importance of curiosity and asking the right questions. The conversation then shifts to the challenges of building a security program, including the need for executive buy-in and cultural changes. Louis also talks about the balance between work and personal life, emphasizing the importance of spending time with family. The conversation concludes with a discussion on mentoring and the long-term impact of investing in relationships. In this conversation, Louis discusses his shift in priorities and mentoring his son. He also shares a funny story about an employee who was caught browsing inappropriate websites during work hours. The conversation then transitions to Louis's speaking engagements and his upcoming conferences on generative AI. The hosts ask Louis for advice on entering the cybersecurity field, and he emphasizes the importance of gaining experience in related IT and technology roles. They also discuss the value of certifications and the need for authenticity in the industry. The conversation concludes with a discussion on AI tools and the potential risks of centralization in AI development.


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Summary
In this engaging conversation, Jordyn shares her journey from aspiring basketball player to a prominent figure in the tech industry, particularly in cybersecurity. The discussion covers her experiences in the military, her transition into tech, and the importance of fitness in maintaining mental clarity. Jordyn emphasizes the significance of community and collaboration in the tech space, highlighting her podcast 'Stats on Stats' and various partnerships aimed at making tech education more accessible. She offers valuable advice on exploring career paths with intention and the importance of unity within the tech community.

Takeaways

• Jordyn transitioned from sports to tech, influenced by her father's background in computer science.
• She emphasizes the importance of fitness for mental clarity and productivity.
• Her military experience shaped her resilience and adaptability in the tech field.
• Networking played a crucial role in her career development.
• Jordyn's podcast aims to bridge gaps in tech education and promote diversity.
• She believes in creating community and supporting others in their tech journeys.
• Partnerships are essential for making tech training more affordable and accessible.
• Jordyn encourages exploring different career paths without intimidation.
• She values the importance of intention in career moves and personal growth.
• Unity in the tech community is vital for collective success.

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In this conversation, Dan Tudorache discusses his journey in the tech industry, from starting as a system administrator to becoming a solution architect. He emphasizes the importance of self-leadership and understanding one's own passions and strengths. Dan also highlights the need for continuous learning and development, both in technical skills and soft skills. He shares his insights on career development strategy and the importance of aligning one's career with their personality and interests. In this conversation, Dan Tudorache discusses the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in career development and leadership. He emphasizes the need to understand one's strengths and weaknesses and develop a strategy to achieve career goals. Dan also highlights the significance of soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and negotiation, in leadership positions. He shares his personal experience of burnout and the importance of managing emotions and taking care of one's well-being. Dan's passion lies in combining human development and technology, and he aims to support individuals and companies in their growth and success.






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