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This episode was recorded October 26, 2023

Ever wonder what it's like to navigate the high-stakes world of military network engineering or to become an authority on the internet's most complex systems? This time around, Doug Madory, of Kentik, joins us to unravel his remarkable journey from the precision of military networks to the forefront of BGP analysis. Alongside Doug, we reminisce about the invaluable in-person connections forged at networking events like the Network User Group meetings driven by the US Network User Association, underscoring the irreplaceable sense of community and collaboration they foster.

Prepare for an eye-opening conversation that ventures into the depths of geopolitical tech intrigue, as Doug shares how his career has intersected with pivotal global events. From recounting the adrenaline of managing deployable radar systems in Italy to analyzing the ripple effects of government-induced internet shutdowns, his stories shine a light on the critical role of technology in international affairs. The episode isn't just about the tales of one man's career; it's a broader exploration of how BGP data collection and analysis are vital to understanding and securing the global digital landscape.

The digital seas are treacherous, and as Doug discusses the strategic importance of internet resilience, especially in conflict zones like Ukraine, we gain a profound appreciation for the unsung heroes keeping our connections alive. From the mysterious sabotage of submarine cables to the promise of a more connected future through initiatives like Starlink, this episode is a deep dive into the infrastructure that underpins our modern world. Join us for an enthralling discussion regarding the internet's complexities, cybersecurity frontlines, and the ongoing battle for global connectivity.

More from Doug
https://twitter.com/DougMadory
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougmadory/

Links discussed during the show:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2014/08/06/the-man-who-can-see-the-internet/
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2023/06/30/satellite-hacked-russian-military/
https://www.kentik.com/blog/the-mystery-of-as8003/
https://www.submarinecablemap.com/

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This episode was recorded on September 28, 2023.

This episode is a warm blend of personal reflections and deep dives into the world of network engineering, where laughter and learning go hand in hand. 

The digital frontier is expanding, and with it, the universe of IoT devices that touch every corner of our lives. From tracking wayward pets to revolutionizing agriculture, we traverse the intricate balance between the allure of smart technology and the vigilance needed to secure it. Join us as we exchange tales from the front lines, illustrating how the convenience of connected gadgets intertwines with the pressing need to safeguard our digital homesteads. 

Our conversation takes a turn towards the pressing issues of IoT security and the burgeoning role of AI in monitoring these devices. Navigating the choppy waters of enterprise environments, we unpack the strategies to protect non-domain-joinable equipment and wrestle with the shadow IoT lurking in our networks. Plus, we delve into the ways AI is enhancing our capabilities to predict severe weather and monitor critical systems. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and settle in for a journey that’s as much about the heart of networking as it is about the hard-wiring.

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This episode was recorded on October 19th, 2023.

In this episode, featuring enterprise architect Brian aka CryptoKnightUS on TikTok, is your field guide, from navigating career crossroads to the power of mentorship, relentless learning, and neurodivergent.

When the security gates at Denver International Airport were left ajar, it wasn't just the contractors who raced against time to seal the breach ahead of an audit. We uncover the pulse-racing narrative and the workplace alchemy that turns a professional crisis into a tale of triumph. Advocacy and talent recognition can spark career ascents, as proven by Jen's spotlight on a contractor's hidden genius. We're peeling back the layers on the hiring philosophy that bets on technical skill and problem-solving finesse, often edging out the socially savvy, reshaping what makes IT teams not just function, but flourish.

The episode doesn't shy away from shifting paradigms as we debate the merits of remote work and champion asynchronous communication—a godsend for the neurodiverse minds like those with ADHD, navigating the tech sphere. And in a plot twist worthy of its own platform, Brian's adventures on TikTok reveal unexpected lessons on neurodivergence in tech leadership. As we tie together loose ends, you'll walk away with a toolkit of career advice, from the art of networking to the grace of self-awareness, that's as practical as it is transformative for anyone looking to climb the ranks in technology. Join us on this journey; it's one for the cyber chronicles.

More from Brian:
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@cryptoknightus
Twitter - https://twitter.com/CryptoKnight

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This episode was recorded on July 20th, 2023. 

Get ready to wrestle with the big debate - IPv4 vs IPv6, and we're not just talking technical here; we're talking personas, rivalries, and the occasional wrestling pun. This episode is a thrilling exploration of technology's incredible power during times of crisis. A.J.'s experiences with recent natural disasters in Vermont showcase just how essential tech can be when disaster strikes, from drones for flood damage assessment to leveraging social media for aid.

We’re also thrilled to welcome Ethan, a young network engineer, who shares his unique journey into networking. From college to apprenticeships and finally into service provider representation, Ethan’s story highlights the critical role of hands-on experience in kickstarting a successful career in network engineering. From managed service provider (MSP) to internet service provider (ISP), our conversation navigates the complexities of different working environments, and the varying roles a network engineer may take on.

We wrap up this episode with practical advice to all you aspiring network engineers out there. Hear about the process of technical interviews, the importance of being honest about your skills, and the value of passion and involvement in the networking community. The future of networking is here, and it's automated. We delve into the growing importance of automation in service provider networks - so strap in, tune in, and get ready to be inspired, educated, and entertained!

More from Ethan:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/ETH4N3T

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IF YOU DO THE ELF ON THE SHELF AT HOME DO NOT LISTEN AROUND CHILDREN!

Strap in for a holiday special like no other as we gather the largest group  ever for an episode filled with warmth, laughter, and reflections. This lively discussion takes us through personal narratives, the stress and jubilation of holiday traditions, and even a chaotic crack at "Jingle Bells." With the room brimming with camaraderie and holiday cheer, we navigate through the highs and lows of the past year.

Our podcasting journey this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. From engaging interactions with guests, to bridging the gap between traditional network engineering and cloud networking in our spinoff podcast, Cables2Clouds - we've covered some ground. Get an insider's view on our favorite episodes, the hurdles we've surmounted, and the innumerable golden opportunities that podcasting has thrown our way.

As we bid adieu to an eventful year, we can't help but express our gratitude to our wonderful podcasting community and the insightful guests who've graced our platform. We walk you through our ambitious plans for the future, our experiences meeting other content creators, and discuss potential collaborations. So, curl up with a warm drink, and join us in this insightful, funny, and engaging episode that encapsulates the essence of the year gone by and sets the stage for the exciting one ahead.

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Ready to unravel the intricacies of network automation? We've got an insightful conversation lined up for you that promises to enlighten you on this complex topic. We kick off this episode by chatting about our new diverse content, our exciting podcast merchandise, and my upcoming autumn adventures in Vermont. We also welcome our special guest, Tony Dubiel, the Product Solutions Architect for Ansible Network Automation at Red Hat, who offers an insider's perspective on Ansible Network Automation.

Our discussion unfolds on a journey from route switching to data center and collaboration, emphasizing the worth of a networking background when stepping into collaboration. We delve into the vast array of automation tools, and debate whether network engineers should stick to one tool or embrace different tools for different scenarios. We also tackle the challenges of network automation, the role of abstraction and orchestration tools, and how ITSM and IPAM can make automation more accessible.

We then turn the spotlight on the Ansible Automation Platform, discussing its varied uses and how it's been revamped to be more cloud-native and scalable. We also touch upon the ongoing debate about using a tool like Terraform for immutable and disposable infrastructure, or different tools depending on the situation. Tony shares his thoughts on the evolution of network automation and the advantages of using validated content to lower the barrier to entry. So buckle up and join us on this enlightening journey into the world of network automation with Ansible.

Links to references made throughout the show:
Ansible4Networking Online Meetup Group (join for free)
https://www.meetup.com/ansible4networking/
Self service labs: https://www.redhat.com/en/interactive-labs/ansible
Network Use cases: https://www.ansible.com/use-cases/network-automation
Network Automation Ebook: https://www.redhat.com/en/engage/network-automation-guide-20221202
Network Blogs: https://www.ansible.com/blog/topic/network-automation
Getting Started with Network Automation:
https://docs.ansible.com/ansible/latest/network/getting_started/index.html
https://ansible.com/network-automation

More from Tony:
https://twitter.com/tdubiel

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This episode was originally recorded March 23, 2023

Meet Ben Schuster, a man who's journeyed from the Air Force to the cutting-edge world of network automation, and the first to bear the title of Cisco Certified DevNet Expert in 2023. His background, inspirations, and career transitions light up our conversation like a well-configured network. As he reminisces about his father's influence, you'll learn about his initial fascination with networking and his transition into classified networks.

Ready to untangle the mysteries of network automation? Ben's got you covered! He'll walk you through the complexities of automation tools such as NautoBot, Ansible, and Git. Plus, he'll share his insights into the challenges of revamping a network, from organizational politics to customer-specific approaches. Our chat then dives into a comparison between the DevNet and CCNA, giving you a crystal clear idea of which path suits you best.

Lastly, if you're gearing up for the DevNet Expert Exam, Ben's invaluable tips and experiences are not to be missed. From understanding blueprints to studying effectively to managing the unique challenges of the exam, Ben's got golden nuggets of wisdom to share. He stresses on the need for a 'source of truth' for network configurations and the benefits of automation based on that. He also suggests must-read resources and provides a sneak-peek into the type of questions you can expect in the exam. Be prepared to be inspired and informed by a true expert in network automation!

Ben's Book Recommendation
Model Drive Devops by Steven Carter and Jason King - https://amzn.to/4701dxL

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Ever wondered about the path that leads someone to work on the communication network of Air Force One? Our guest, John Breth, has done just that, and he's here to share his journey from the military to the cybersecurity field. With a career spanning roles as a network and security administrator at a Tier 1 ISP, and now a well-known content creator, John's journey is a thrilling blend of education and experience.

As we reminisce about personal experiences, from Prime binge-watching to study plans and Vermont fall-time hobbies, we highlight the importance of maintaining technical skills, even in a vendor role. Our conversation takes us deep into the complexities of network engineering, which demands a well-rounded skill set and often requires us to wear multiple hats, particularly in smaller companies. We explore the critical role of cybersecurity in ensuring compliance with regulations, and we discuss the need for an active defense methodology to mitigate cyber threats.

Wrapping up this intriguing chat, we delve into the implications of the SolarWinds hack, the increasing importance of coding and automation in cybersecurity, and provide some useful tips for those looking to get their foot in the door of this field. Finally, we spotlight the value of cybersecurity certifications and the role they can play in enhancing your career. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring newbie, John's unique insight is bound to spark your interest and perhaps, inspire your own path in tech.

A big thank you to our show sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/

More from John:
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/JBizzle703
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CYBERINSIGHT

This show was recorded October 5th, 2023.

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Prepare to be enlightened as we journey into the often-misunderstood realm of media networking with industry expert, Josh Warcop. In this fascinating conversation, Josh demystifies the complexities of the current social media landscape. Have you ever wondered how to packetize voice and video streams into IP packets? Or how digital video and audio from as far back as the 1940s and 1989/1990 are transitioning to accommodate faster ethernet speeds? This episode is packed with those answers and more.

Josh further unravels the intricacies of the broadcast TV industry's shift from STI to ethernet and the necessity of this move. You'll discover the unique approach of having two completely separate active networks convey the same data and why this is crucial for live broadcasts. We also delve into the world of remote production, with Josh highlighting the tools and concepts crucial for success, such as LACP and ether channel.

As we traverse the exciting terrain of media networking, Josh underscores the importance of Quality of Service (QoS) - even at breakneck speeds of 10 and 100 gig. Hear valuable advice on prioritizing control traffic, avoiding oversubscription, and the role of ethernet in modern media networking. If you're a network engineer curious about the field of media networks, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and practical takeaways. Get ready to expand your knowledge and understanding of an industry that's shaping our digital era.

More from Josh:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Warcop

A big thank you to our sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/

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Imagine, if you will, a world where AI streamlines your network configuration changes, manages your network and even troubleshoots for you. Sounds like a far-off dream, right? Well, the future is here and we're discussing exactly that. We weigh the pros and cons of using AI in network management, touching on issues like data accuracy and false positives. But it's not all gloom and doom as we explore the positive impacts conversational AI can have on the networking industry.

Finally, we throw light on how AI can revolutionize network security and enterprise. Picture IT administrators making informed decisions about upgrades and patches swiftly and accurately, thanks to the assistance of AI. We consider the implications of using public data lakes and protecting intellectual property. We then delve into the exciting potential of AI for network optimization, self-healing, and even ordering new equipment. Trust us,  this is an episode you don't want to miss.

A big thank you to our sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/

Find everything AONE right here: https://linktr.ee/artofneteng