Tech Woke

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Timestamps:

00:00 Role of a project manager

05:22 Understanding system development stages

09:09 Managing personal life projects

11:10 Project management and event planning

15:00 Getting a PMP Certification

17:36 Applying educational and work experience

22:35 Discussing pay transparency benefits

25:08 Day-to-day as a project manager

27:09 Explaining software development processes

31:03 Using Jira for project management

35:02 Importance of transparency in teams

37:53 Importance of proper documentation

43:21 Being personable at work

46:31 Time management and organization tips

50:21 Keeping motivated through tech challenges

50:55 Staying motivated in tough times

Description:

Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast hosted by Christopher Okpala.

In this episode, Christopher sits down with Diamond Tarwoe, a Project Manager with over 10 years of experience leading IT and cybersecurity projects across Fortune 500 companies.

If you’ve ever wondered how to break into project management in tech, what project managers actually do, or how to transition into tech without coding, this episode breaks it down in a practical and beginner-friendly way.

Diamond shares:

• How she transitioned into project management

• What project managers do day to day

• PMP, Agile, and Scrum certifications explained

• Skills employers look for in tech project managers

• Resume and career advice for beginners

• How project management connects to cybersecurity and IT

• How to grow a career in tech leadership

Whether you're exploring project management, cybersecurity, or non-coding tech careers, this episode is packed with real-world insights and actionable advice.

Host: Christopher Okpala

Guest: Diamond Tarwoe

#ProjectManagement #TechCareers #Cybersecurity

Join ECA Cyber Range: https://www.skool.com/eca-cyber-range-4625/about?ref=ec3abb3a3b014ed2a08e060ef406fb98

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Timestamps:

00:00 Chris's early career struggles

04:28 Explaining SIM systems basics

09:07 Daily routine in cybersecurity job

10:20 Understanding backend log generation

15:12 Skills and mindset for IT roles

17:53 Starting to charge for classes

20:39 Helping IT and cybersecurity professionals

23:36 Learning cloud and certifications

26:04 Discussion on AI in cybersecurity

29:44 Asking for favors and help

Description:

In this episode, Christopher sits down with Kenneth Ellington, a senior threat analyst and cybersecurity trainer, to break down what threat hunting actually is and how you can get into this space.

If you’ve been trying to break into cybersecurity but feel lost after getting certifications like Security+, this episode gives you a real-world understanding of what the job actually looks like and how to position yourself to get in.

In this episode, we cover:

• What threat hunting is in simple terms

• The difference between reactive vs proactive cybersecurity

• What a day in the life of a threat hunter looks like

• How SIEM tools like Splunk are used in real environments

• What skills you actually need to get into threat hunting

• Why certifications alone are not enough

• How to build hands-on experience without a job

• The role of AI in cybersecurity and automation

• Salary expectations and career growth in cyber

Whether you're coming from IT, trying to transition into cybersecurity, or stuck after getting certified, this episode will give you clarity on your next steps.

Subscribe for more content on cybersecurity, GRC, RMF, GovTech, and real tech career paths.

Like, comment, and share if this helped you.

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Timestamp:

00:00 Why I started RMF Academy

04:54 Self-taught coding success story

08:50 AI making problem-solving easier

11:10 Getting started in tech careers

14:55 Tech job perks and realities

18:23 Starting out as a full-stack engineer

21:54 Day-to-day as a full stack engineer

22:22 Day-to-day as a developer

25:39 Communicating technical issues effectively

29:24 Learning to code with Python

32:50 Start small and build experience

35:55 How early computers stored memory

38:25 Getting diagnosed with diabetes

42:41 Prioritizing self-care first

47:06 Making time for personal growth

48:43 How College Tracks helped me

Video Description: 

Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast with your host Christopher Okpala.

In this episode, Christopher sits down with Anupam Ghosh, an experienced software engineer and cloud architect, to break down what it really takes to become a software engineer in today’s market.

If you’ve been trying to get into tech, transition into software engineering, or figure out the right path without experience, this episode gives you a real, no-fluff roadmap.

Anupam shares his journey, insights from working in the industry, and practical advice on how beginners can position themselves to succeed in software engineering in 2026 and beyond.

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Timestamps:

00:00 "Mastering RMF Execution"

06:44 "Getting Sponsored for Clearance"

09:05 "Certifications: Value and Limitations"

12:24 "Keys to Successful Hiring"

15:38 Lessons From Early Jobs

18:29 "Cyber Professionals: Know Your Limits"

20:21 Interview Success: Embrace Uncertainty

23:36 "Hiring Based on Qualifications"

27:45 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Naturally

30:35 "Ask the 'Dumb' Question"

34:32 Navigating Technology and Mission Challenges

37:19 "Challenges in Cybersecurity Foundations"

40:26 "Dynamic Cloud Needs Automated Security"

45:20 "Choosing Time, Values, Security"

46:57 "Prioritize Family Over Job"

VIdeo Description:

Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast with your host Christopher Okpala.

In this episode, Christopher sits down with seasoned cybersecurity executive Dan Bradley, who brings over 25 years of experience across civil service, leadership at CISA, and government contracting.

If you’ve ever wondered how to break into GovTech cybersecurity, how security clearances really work, or what it actually takes to grow in federal tech roles, this episode breaks it all down in a real and practical way.

Dan shares his journey from humble beginnings to leadership in cybersecurity, along with honest insights on what separates people who succeed in GovTech from those who struggle.

This conversation covers:

• How to break into GovTech and cybersecurity with no experience

• The truth about security clearances and certifications

• What hiring managers actually look for in candidates

• Common mistakes that hold people back in tech careers

• How to succeed on experienced cybersecurity teams

• The role of soft skills in GovTech environments

• Real challenges in government cybersecurity and leadership

• Career growth, mindset, and long-term success strategies

Whether you're trying to land your first cybersecurity job, transition into GRC or RMF, or grow within the GovTech space, this episode gives you the roadmap and mindset you need.

Subscribe for more content on cybersecurity, RMF, GRC, GovTech, and tech career growth.

 Like, comment, and share if this helped you.

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Timestamp::

00:00 "Non-Traditional Path Into Tech"

09:25 "Leaving the Stoop"

13:21 "Evolution of Job Recruiting Platforms"

16:14 "Recruiter Skills and Hiring Needs"

22:15 Recruitment Funnel Explained

26:40 Recruiter Challenges in Time Management

35:48 "Embracing Tough Conversations"

38:24 "Tough Conversations About Value"

46:38 "Confidence in Recruitment Negotiations"

49:49 "Knowing Your Value and Impact"

55:58 "Mastering Storytelling in Job Interviews"

01:02:19 "People Don't Forget"

01:06:03 "Keep Thriving and Inspiring"

VIdeo Description:

Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast, the show where we break down the real pathways into tech careers, cybersecurity, and the strategies people use to build success in the industry.

In this episode, I sit down with Dino Anagbogu, founder, program manager, and technical recruiter, who shares his unconventional journey from the sales floors of Chicago to working inside the fast moving tech ecosystem of Silicon Valley.

We talk about what it really takes to break into tech, the risks behind leaving stable jobs for new opportunities, and why betting on yourself can completely change your career trajectory.

Dino also pulls back the curtain on the recruiting process for tech jobs, explaining the realities behind hiring decisions, the competition in today’s market, and what candidates must do to stand out. We also discuss the power of storytelling in interviews, building relationships with recruiters, and how saying yes to the right opportunities can open doors you never expected.

If you are trying to land your first tech job, transition into cybersecurity, or understand how recruiters actually think, this conversation is packed with real insight you do not want to miss.

Welcome to the Tech Woke Podcast.

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Timestamp:

00:00 "Master RMF for Cybersecurity"

04:12 From Basketball to Computer Science

07:34 "Training Program Commitment"

11:05 "Passion Through Process and Community"

13:26 Post-Internship Job Struggles

15:37 "Networking for Job Success"

19:04 "Understanding Data Centers & Cloud"

24:19 Becoming a Cloud Security Engineer

26:19 Cloud Security Engineering Expertise

28:57 Cybersecurity Troubleshooting and Coordination

32:19 "Cybersecurity Basics for Hackers"

35:36 "Hands-On Learning and Challenges"

38:36 Managing Risks Independently

40:53 AI, Cloud, and Human Connection

45:11 "Cloud Lab Platforms Recommendation"

VIdeo Description:

In this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, Christopher Okpala sits down with Marc Lawrence, founder of Respect the Tech, to talk about how people can break into cybersecurity, cloud security, and the broader tech industry even if they’re starting with little or no experience.

Christopher and Marc have a real conversation about what it takes to start a career in cybersecurity and cloud computing. They discuss the power of networking, building hands-on experience with AWS and Azure, and how documenting your projects can help you land your first tech job.

Marc also shares insights from the Respect the Tech community and explains how attending tech networking events, job fairs, and cybersecurity meetups can create opportunities that online job applications often don’t.

If you’re trying to get into cybersecurity, cloud security, cloud computing, or IT, this episode provides practical advice on where to start, how to build real skills, and how to stay focused while learning.

In this episode we talk about:

• How to break into cybersecurity with no experience

• Why networking events and job fairs are powerful for tech careers

• How to start building hands-on cloud experience with AWS and Azure

• Why sharing cloud projects and cybersecurity labs can strengthen your resume

• The importance of community, mentorship, and collaboration in tech

• How to avoid information overload when learning cybersecurity or cloud security

If you’re interested in cybersecurity careers, cloud security careers, IT careers, AWS, Azure, or breaking into tech, this episode will give you a clear starting point.

Subscribe for more conversations about cybersecurity, cloud security, RMF, GovTech, and tech career growth.

#Cybersecurity #CloudSecurity #TechCareers

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Check out Openrmf: https://www.soteriasoft.com/products/openrmf-professional.html

Timestamps:

00:00 "Mastering RMF Real-World Skills"

04:24 From Help Desk to Cybersecurity

07:10 "Understanding Frameworks and Perspectives"

09:50 "Breaking Down IT Misconceptions"

14:31 Improving Processes Through Communication

17:11 "Streamlining Solutions and Efficiency"

20:59 "Streamlining RFP Team Collaboration"

24:17 "Web-Based Tools vs. Client-Based"

26:43 "Web-Based Third-Party Assessments"

32:40 Automation and Data Integration Progress

35:13 Automated Cybersecurity and Data Integration

36:18 Automated Data Management Possibilities

40:20 "Automating for Efficiency"

43:53 Automated Compliance with Elastic SIEM

46:03 "Enhanced Layered Security Compliance"

49:37 "Improving RMF and Education"

Video Description:

If you’re navigating the world of government cybersecurity compliance, this episode is for you.

On this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, I sat down with the founders of Soteria Software, Dale Bingham and David Gould, to unpack how automation is transforming the Risk Management Framework (RMF) process.

We discuss how tools like OpenRMF are streamlining control implementation, accelerating documentation, reducing manual workload, and saving organizations millions in compliance costs. We also break down:

Continuous ATO (cATO) strategies

RMF automation in DoD and federal environments

NIST SP 800-53 control management

POA&M optimization

eMASS workflow challenges

Compliance tool integration

DevSecOps and cybersecurity governance

Common RMF misconceptions

How education reduces compliance risk

If you’re an ISSO, ISSM, security engineer, GRC analyst, contractor, or working in DoD cybersecurity, FedRAMP, CMMC, or federal compliance, this conversation will change how you think about automation and compliance execution.

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Timestamps:

00:00 "Master RMF Execution Skills"

05:22 "Career Uncertainty and Next Steps"

08:50 Evaluating Cybersecurity Degree Programs

11:21 From Job Quit to SOC Internship

12:42 Cybersecurity Projects and Insights

16:29 Vulnerability Management and Team Grading

21:08 Workplace Culture Shapes Experience

25:09 Platform Transition & User Support

26:26 Cloud Solution Architect Role

31:46 AI Data Security Concerns

33:22 Comprehensive DLP and User Training

38:29 Strategic Planning and Networking Tips

42:28 Navigating Trends and Personal Choices

45:54 Cyber Love Story Gone Wrong

46:41 "Being a Voice for Us"

49:30 "Improve Daily: Like & Subscribe"

Video Description: 

Welcome back to another episode of Tech Woke.

In this episode, Christopher Okpala sits down with Destini Simmons (Cyber Shorty), Solutions Engineer, Cybersecurity Instructor, and Co-Host of the Textual Chatter podcast, to break down how she transitioned from a Criminal Justice major to a thriving career in cloud and cybersecurity.

This is a real conversation about what it actually takes to break into tech in 2026.

Destini shares

• How she pivoted into cybersecurity with no traditional tech background

• Why degrees and certifications alone will not get you hired

• How to strategically plan your cybersecurity career path

• The importance of networking and building your online presence

• How to use AI tools to map out your learning and career goals

• What hiring managers and recruiters actually look for

• The mindset required to survive and thrive in tech

If you are trying to break into cybersecurity, cloud security, or tech with no experience, this episode gives you practical strategy, not fluff.

Whether you are a beginner, career switcher, or already in IT looking to level up, this conversation will help you understand how to stand out in a competitive tech job market.

Subscribe to Tech Woke for real conversations about cybersecurity careers, GRC, cloud security, AI governance, and breaking into tech the smart way.

#Cybersecurity #CloudSecurity #TechCareers

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Guest Information:

🔗 https://solo.to/intelwave

🔗 https://www.skool.com/intelwave-3354/about

Timestamp:

00:00 "Mastering RMF for Cybersecurity"

04:04 "Proving Skills Over Credentials"

07:33 Cybersecurity Career Prep Insights

10:51 Intentional Networking for Cybersecurity Success

13:03 "Path to Cybersecurity: It Depends"

19:10 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Career Options

21:45 Cybersecurity: Teamwork & Collaboration Skills

25:35 "Build Relationships, Not Just Apply"

27:40 "LinkedIn: Key to Cybersecurity Networking"

32:34 Optimize LinkedIn for SOC Analyst

36:10 Networking for RMF on LinkedIn

37:06 Networking for RMF Career Growth

41:04 "Building Your Personal Brand"

44:53 "Persistence, Discipline, Strategy, Action"

48:39 Cybersecurity Education for Youth

Video Description: 

In this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, Christopher Okpala sits down with cybersecurity threat intelligence analyst Nigel Boston to break down the real strategy for getting into cybersecurity in 2026 with no experience. This conversation goes beyond certifications and generic advice. They talk about what actually works in today’s competitive tech market including choosing the right cybersecurity role, building hands-on projects, learning cloud fundamentals, and developing proof of work that hiring managers respect.

Nigel shares a clear step-by-step roadmap for beginners, explains why certifications alone are not enough, and dives into the power of intentional networking, LinkedIn branding, and relationship-building to stand out from thousands of applicants. They also discuss how to build a strong personal brand, how to optimize your LinkedIn profile for recruiters, what entry-level cybersecurity roles make sense in 2026 such as SOC analyst and vulnerability management, and why soft skills like communication and documentation matter just as much as technical ability.

If you are transitioning from retail, customer service, education, or another non-tech field and want to break into cybersecurity, this episode gives you practical, realistic guidance on how to do it the right way. No shortcuts. No hype. Just real strategy that works.

RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/

Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke

Jason Dion Free Book:

https://tldrcybersecurity.com/subscribe

Timestamp:

00:00 "Exam Questions: Wording Matters"

04:32 "Roadmap to Becoming a Hacker"

08:01 "Is Pen Testing Right?"

10:14 Simplifying Complex Tech Concepts

15:17 "Mastering NIST Cybersecurity Framework"

18:48 "Practical Certifications vs. Theoretical"

20:42 "Balanced Approach to Exam Prep"

24:02 "Applicant Tracking Systems Explained"

28:06 "CISSP: Key to Job Interviews"

29:39 Military Networking Drives Career Opportunities

32:20 "From IT to Military Engineering"

37:17 "Generational Tech Understanding Gap"

40:15 Age Perception in Consulting Careers

44:35 "AI Adoption and Responsible Use"

46:17 "Adapting to Rapid AI Changes"

51:25 "Building Practical Certifications Independently"

52:49 AI Revolutionizing Skill-Based Hiring

55:54 "Taking a Career Shot"

Video Decription:

Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast. In this episode, host Christopher Okpala sits down with Jason Dion, one of the most trusted cybersecurity educators in the industry, whose training has helped over a million people break into IT and cybersecurity.

They break down how beginners with zero tech experience can choose the right certifications, avoid common mistakes, and build real, job-ready skills. Jason also shares practical advice on hands-on learning, navigating today’s cybersecurity job market, and how AI and cloud technologies are reshaping tech careers. Whether you’re transitioning from a non-tech background or looking to future-proof your career, this conversation delivers clear, real-world guidance for breaking into cybersecurity the right way.