The Route to Networking

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In this inspiring episode of The Route to Networking – Women in Tech, host Holly Staff sits down with Elizabeth Barr, Head of Cisco Networking Academy for the UK, Ireland, and Nordics, and board member of Women of Cisco. With a non-linear path into the industry, Elizabeth shares how curiosity, international experience, and a passion for purpose-led work have shaped her impactful career in tech.

She opens up about her early doubts entering the industry without a technical background, how she found her voice at Cisco, and why representation matters at every stage—from education to boardroom. Elizabeth also discusses how AI, cybersecurity, and education present major opportunities for women, and what needs to change in recruitment to open more doors.

From running STEM outreach to overseeing Cisco’s Cyber Camps, Elizabeth is on a mission to show the next generation—especially girls—that there’s a place for them in tech, no matter their background.

Brimming with practical advice, uplifting stories, and real-world insight, this is a must-listen for anyone passionate about inclusion, leadership, and the future of technology.

🔗 Connect with Elizabeth: [LinkedIn]
💡 Learn more about the Cisco Networking Academy: netacad.com

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In this episode of The Route to Networking Podcast, host Louis Paratt, Head of RF and Satcom at Hamilton Barnes, sits down with Felix Motzki, Chief Technology Officer at Reflex Aerospace, to delve into the rapidly evolving world of space technology and the future of software-defined satellites.

Felix shares his fascinating journey into the aerospace sector, from a background in physics and systems engineering to driving innovation at the forefront of Europe's satellite manufacturing scene. With experience across leading space companies, Felix offers valuable insight into how Reflex Aerospace is challenging industry conventions by developing highly customisable, mission-specific satellites that push the boundaries of what's possible in New Space.

The conversation explores why flexibility and scalability are key in modern satellite design, how Reflex is building next-gen infrastructure for commercial and governmental applications, and the critical role of collaboration and agile development in driving progress.

Felix also shares advice for aspiring engineers and space professionals, emphasising the importance of technical depth, interdisciplinary thinking, and staying curious in a fast-moving field.

Packed with expert knowledge, practical career tips, and a bold vision for the European space industry, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of satellite communications.

🔗 Connect with Felix: LinkedIn
🛰️ Website: Reflex Aerospace

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Welcome back to our special spin-off series of The Route to Networking Podcast, dedicated to supporting military leavers as they transition into the tech industry. In this episode, host Louis Parratt sits down with Hugh Keir, a former British Army paratrooper who now works as a Service Manager at Viasat.

From high-pressure combat zones to leading technical operations in satellite communications, Hugh shares his remarkable journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way. His story is one of adaptability, resilience, and embracing the unknown—offering invaluable insight for anyone navigating life after the military.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Life in the Parachute Regiment and the leadership lessons it taught
• Why private security wasn’t the long-term solution—and what came next
• How a chance connection led Hugh to a career in tech
• The skills ex-military personnel bring to the corporate world
• Practical tips for veterans breaking into civilian roles and the tech industry
• Hugh’s perspective on AI, soft skills, and the future of work

Connect with Our Guest:

🔗 Hugh Keir on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hugh-keir-6ba629161

🌍 Viasat: Website

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

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In this episode of The Route to Networking Podcast, host Jamie Maher speaks with Elliot Renton, SVP at Magnifi and a seasoned leader in media, entertainment, and sports tech across Asia Pacific. From his early days in the UK to two decades of bold career moves in Singapore and beyond, Elliot shares how curiosity, adaptability, and a forward-thinking mindset shaped his global journey.

He dives into how AI is transforming content creation, why localised strategies are key to success in diverse APAC markets, and what the future holds for streaming, wearables, and sports innovation. Elliot also offers powerful career advice for the next generation—emphasising the value of risk-taking, continuous learning, and staying authentic.

Packed with insight, leadership lessons, and a few quick-fire surprises—this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

🔗 Connect with Elliot: LinkedIn

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In this episode of The Route to Networking Podcast, host Lewis West speaks with Rob Anderson, Principal Incident Response Investigator at WithSecure. Rob shares his journey from a policing career, where he rose to the rank of Inspector, to the world of cybersecurity.

He explains how his crisis management and coordination skills translated seamlessly into handling cyber incidents. Rob also discusses the evolution of security breaches, the role of AI in incident response, and shares advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

To hear more about Rob's unique career path and insights into the future of cybersecurity, tune in now!

🔗 Connect with Rob: LinkedIn

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

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In this episode of The Route to Networking Podcast, host George Barnes interviews Matt Gaynor, an IP Engineer at ITN (Independent Television News). Matt shares his inspiring journey from a childhood fascination with technology to his current role maintaining ITN’s high-capacity 100Gbps network that supports live broadcasting.

He talks about the challenges of breaking into the industry, including the importance of hands-on experience and industry connections. Matt also shares insights on the future of networking, emerging technologies, and advice for aspiring network engineers.

To hear more about Matt's career, his thoughts on networking technology, and his advice for the next generation of engineers, tune in to this insightful conversation!

Find out more about Matt in this week’s episode of The Route to Networking podcast. Out now!

LinkedIn: Matt Gaynor

Website: Matt Gaynor’s Tech Blog

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

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Episode Overview:

Welcome to a brand-new spin-off series of The Route to Networking Podcast, designed specifically for military leavers! Transitioning out of the armed forces can be a challenging journey, especially when stepping into the tech industry. Whether you're considering a career in radio frequency, network engineering, or another technology field, this series is here to guide and support you.

In this episode, we are joined by Dave Davis, Senior Technical Director at ST Engineering iDirect and a British Army veteran (1998-2003). Dave shares his transition journey, how his military skills translated into civilian tech roles, and the key advice he has for those looking to follow a similar path.

Key Topics Discussed:

• How military experience aligns with careers in tech
• The challenges and opportunities of transitioning into civilian roles
• Dave’s personal journey from the British Army to a senior tech leadership role
• Practical advice for military leavers navigating the job market
• The importance of resilience, adaptability, and networking

Connect with Our Guest:

🔗 Dave Davis on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davis936

Resources & Links:

🌍 RE:ACT Disaster Response: linkedin.com/company/react-disaster-response
🔗 ST Engineering iDirect: Website

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

Interested in following a similar career path?  Why don’t you take a look at our jobs page, where you can find your next job opportunity? 

Head to: www.hamilton-barnes.com/jobs/

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In this episode of The Route to Networking, host George Barnes interviews Tim Russell, Chief Technologist at CDW. Tim shares his unconventional journey from boat mechanic to IT leader, highlighting how hands-on problem-solving led him to a career in networking.

He discusses the evolution of communication technologies, the challenges businesses face in adopting innovation, and how AI is transforming both customer and employee experiences. Tim also offers career advice for aspiring network engineers and reflects on the future of hybrid work.

To hear more about the latest trends in networking and how technology is shaping the modern workspace, tune in to this insightful conversation!

Find out more about Tim in this week’s episode of The Route to Networking podcast. Out now!  

Connect with Tim:

🔗 LinkedIn: Tim Russell
🎙 Podcast: CDW UK OCTOPOD

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

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In this episode of The Route to Networking, host George Barnes interviews Christian Adell and Josh VanDeraa, co-authors of Modern Network Observability. They share insights into their journey through network engineering, the challenges of writing a technical book while working full-time, and key principles of network observability. Learn why they believe adaptability is key for future network engineers, and hear their advice on balancing flexibility and structure in observability practices. To hear more about how AI and data are reshaping networking, tune in to this insightful conversation!Top of FormBottom of Form

Links

Check out their book: https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Network-Observability-hands-open-source/dp/1835081061

Hear more from Christian Adell: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianadell/

Blog: https://www.netbcn.cat/

Event: https://events.netbcn.nog.community/

Hear more from Josh VanDeraa:

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-vanderaa/

Blog: https://josh-v.com

Book recommendation: Unreasonable Hospitality

Check out their co-author David Flores

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-flores-80282917/ 

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

Interested in following a similar career path?  Why don’t you take a look at our jobs page, where you can find your next job opportunity? 

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This week on The Route to Networking Podcast, we were thrilled to have Chris Grundemann join us. A networking veteran with two decades of experience, Chris is a strategic advisor to numerous businesses and a co-founder of the Network Automation Forum. 

Find out more about Chris here: 

• chrisgrundemann.com
• fullctl.com  
• networkautomation.forum

Want to stay up to date with new episodes? Follow our LinkedIn page for all the latest podcast updates!

Head to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-route-to-networking-podcast/

Interested in following a similar career path?  Why don’t you take a look at our jobs page, where you can find your next job opportunity? 

Head to: www.hamilton-barnes.com/jobs/