Tech Woke

Christopher Okpala

Join us as we demystify the tech landscape, offer guidance on educational pathways, and showcase inspirational stories of individuals who have successfully transitioned into tech careers. We address challenges, celebrate triumphs, and equip you with the knowledge and motivation to take your first steps or advance further in the tech world.

  1. 24 SEPT

    Navigating AI Resumes, Personal Branding, and Salary Negotiations in Today’s Tech Job Market

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/ Check out the Patreon: patreon.com/TechWoke RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1 Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamps: 00:00 AI and Personal Branding Risks 04:33 Elusive Job Opportunities Everywhere 06:19 Corporate Networks and Investments Unveiled 10:12 "Network Before Urgently Needing Job" 15:11 AI in Recruitment Concerns 18:43 AI Tools for Job Searches 20:06 Resume Review: AI vs. Manual Screening 26:10 Breaking Barriers in Big Tech 26:52 "Choosing Self Over Corporate Constraints" 30:12 Engaging Online for Ideal Job 35:29 Unprofessional Communication Consequences 37:43 Proactive Job Seeking via LinkedIn 41:25 Salary Negotiation and Career Growth 45:22 Negotiation Challenges When Unemployed 48:54 Degrees vs. Boot Camp Skills 49:34 "Degrees Trump Bootcamps in Tech" 55:37 Faith in Uncertain Times 56:05 Faith and Divine Presence 59:52 "Tech Woke Podcast Sign-Off" Video Description: Welcome to another episode of Tech Woke! In this insightful conversation, host Chris Okpala and guest Chenae Erkerd better known as Recruiter Cousindive deep into the current realities of job hunting in the tech industry. Chenae, a seasoned recruiter and TEDx speaker, shares candid advice on everything from the dos and don’ts of using AI in your job search, to how building an authentic personal brand can open unexpected doors or even close a few. You’ll hear Chenae break down the job market “myths” around big-name companies, the hidden opportunities with mid-sized and startup firms, and why your network truly is your net worth. The episode also tackles salary negotiations, the impact of layoffs, and the importance of supporting others in their career journeys. Whether you’re a newcomer to tech, a seasoned professional, or in the midst of a transition, this episode is packed with real talk, hard-earned wisdom, and encouragement to know your worth and add tax. Tune in for practical tips, honest recruiter perspectives, and a conversation that doesn’t shy away from the nuances, challenges, and opportunities in today’s tech job landscape.

    1 hr

  2. 16 SEPT

    How to get into cybersecurity with no experience 2025

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Compliance Community: https://www.skool.com/compliance-community-7740/about?ref=ec3abb3a3b014ed2a08e060ef406fb98 RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Time Stamps: 00:00 From Lost Beginner to Security Expert 06:20 Comprehensive Skills in GRC 13:59 Adapting Skills for Cyber Careers 15:31 Certification Isn't Everything: Skills Matter 21:17 Job Dissatisfaction to Passionate Security Enthusiast 26:05 Preparation for GRC/RMF Projects 31:53 Networking at Annex Conferences 36:31 Resume Essentials: Three Key Sections 43:57 Phone Screening and Interview Prep 48:50 AI and Cybersecurity Synergy 56:58 Comprehensive Career Prep Program 01:00:21 Empowering Your Team’s Growth Video Description: Welcome to another episode of Tech Woke! In this insightful conversation, host Chris Okpala sits down with cybersecurity expert Kevin Mukham, the founder of Cybermuk, to dive deep into what it really takes to launch and thrive in a career in cybersecurity today. Together, they strip away the hype and demystify the path to breaking into the field from certifications and practical skills to the power of networking and keeping your passion alive. Whether you’re trying to pivot from IT to cyber, just getting started, or navigating the evolving landscape shaped by AI and cloud technologies, this episode is packed with honest advice, real industry stories, and steps you can take right now to build a sustainable career. Kevin and Chris cover everything from tailoring your resume and mastering interviews, to finding the right specialization and building your professional brand online. If you’re ready to future proof your tech career or support others on their journeys, you don’t want to miss this conversation. Let’s get started!

    1h 3m

  3. 1 SEPT

    Breaking Into GovTech: Certifications, Clearances, and Career Secrets with ft. @symonebeez ​

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Compliance Community: https://www.skool.com/compliance-community-7740/about?ref=ec3abb3a3b014ed2a08e060ef406fb98 RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Guest Information: IG: https://www.instagram.com/symonebeez/ Govtech Con: https://www.govtechcon.com/ Timestamps: 1:15 Intro: Who is Simone B? 2:20 Breaking Into GovTech: Where to Start Today 5:10 Maximizing Your Security+ Certification 8:00 Where to Find GovTech Jobs 11:00 The Importance of Security Clearances in GovTech 17:00 Top Certifications & Salary Ranges in GovTech 24:00 Exploring Overseas GovTech Opportunities 28:00 Investing in GovTech: Why It’s the Future 35:00 GovTech Conferences & Networking (GovTech Con) 45:00 Final Takeaways & Career Tips About this video: Welcome back to another episode of "Tech Woke." Today, we’re diving deep into the world of government technology and cybersecurity with none other than Symone Berry (known online as SymoneBeez). Symone is an industry powerhouse who’s helped countless professionals break into the elusive and lucrative govtech space. In this episode, Symone dishes out candid advice on how to land your first IT job with just a Security Plus certification, the real value behind security clearances, and why mission-critical roles are key to job stability even in uncertain times. You’ll also hear insider tips on finding government contracts, the latest on the AI boom and its impact on federal tech jobs, and how moving to hotspots like Huntsville or working overseas could transform your career and finances. Plus, Symone opens up about building her community through GovTechCon, her experiences navigating the often-secretive world of government contracting, and the importance of supporting each other in this ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up in govtech, this episode is packed with actionable strategies, inspiration, and plenty of real talk. Let’s get started!

    46 min

  4. 16 AUG

    How to Land an ISSO Job with Zero Experience

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Patreon: patreon.com/TechWoke RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Description:  Breaking into cybersecurity isn’t about luck, it’s about having a proven formula. If you want to become an Information System Security Officer (ISSO), you need to understand the Risk Management Framework (RMF) and how it’s applied on the job. In this video, I walk you through the RMF formula step by step so you can position yourself for your first or next ISSO role even with zero experience. What you’ll learn: The proven formula for understanding RMF from start to finish How to think like an ISSO or RMF analyst Why POA&Ms, control testing, and documentation are your bread and butter How this approach can help you land your first ISSO job with no prior experience Whether you’re: Trying to get your first cybersecurity role Transitioning from IT into compliance Already in the field and want to sharpen your RMF skills …this video is for you.

    27 min

  5. 29 JUL

    From Theater to Tech: Khalif Cooper’s Journey to Self-Taught Software Engineer

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Patreon: patreon.com/TechWoke RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamps: 00:00 "From Servers to Engineers" 03:13 Reflecting on Khalif's Dynamic Journey 08:28 Curiosity Led Me to Tech 10:06 Motivation Beyond Money 12:40 Learning Skills Through Incremental Steps 16:56 Landing First Freelance Job Hustling 21:19 Reflecting on Startup Experience 23:34 School vs. Self-Learning Approaches 25:58 AI's Workforce Impact: Job Shifts 30:31 Journey from Teaching to Entrepreneurship 32:56 "Building a Baltimore Tech Community" 35:19 "Tech Woke: Engage and Support" Video Description: Welcome back to another episode of My Space! In today’s show, Chris Okpala sits down with Khalif Cooper self taught software engineer, founder of Black Tech Connect, and an inspiring leader in the Baltimore tech scene. Khalif shares his incredible journey from theater kid and aspiring playwright to successful technologist, entrepreneur, and community organizer. He opens up about learning to code without a formal tech background, hustling his way into his first engineering job, and the power of persistence, curiosity, and community accountability. You’ll hear about the real-life challenges of switching careers, how conferences and networking changed everything for Khalif, and why he believes that staying curious and supporting those around you is the key to success in tech especially as the field faces rapid change from AI. Plus, Khalif reveals his vision for Black Tech Connect and the future of inclusive innovation in Baltimore. Whether you’re thinking about a tech career, craving motivation, or just love hearing how passion and grit can change lives, this episode is for you. Let’s get into it!

    36 min

  6. 22 JUL

    How to Succeed in Government Cybersecurity: RMF, CMMC, and Career Growth Tips

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Patreon: patreon.com/TechWoke RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Time stamps: 1.30 Who is Derron king? 2:50 How CSMC Works in Government Contracting and Small Business 4:35 Advantage of Military Experience in Cybersecurity Careers Careers 10:00 Mastering RMF as a Beginner: Pro-Level Tips to Get Started 16:30 How to Break Into GRC in Today’s Competitive Job Market 30:00 RMF Salary Breakdown: What You Can Earn in This Field 41:00 How to Break into RMF Without a Technical Background 52:00 The Technical Side of RMF Explained 55:00 Stand Out in Tech: Strategies That Work New Episode: Tech Woke Real Talk on RMF, Cyber Careers & Government Contracting Hosted by Christopher Okpala and Derron King Jr. What does it really take to break into cybersecurity, land federal contracts, or pivot into GRC and RMF roles? In this episode of Tech Woke, I sit down with Derron King Jr., a military veteran, government tech founder, and experienced cyber leader, for an unfiltered conversation about what it takes to thrive in today’s cybersecurity landscape. We break down the practical side of RMF, CMMC, and government contracting. We talk about how to break into cyber without a traditional background, how to leverage military benefits like free certifications and hands-on training, and why automation and AI are reshaping the GRC space. Derron also shares his journey of starting his own cybersecurity consulting business, and we explore the mindset, networking, and faith it takes to grow in this field. Whether you’re transitioning from IT, new to RMF, or dreaming of building your own firm, this episode is packed with real-world advice, strategy, and encouragement. No fluff. Just honest talk and actionable steps for anyone serious about building a future in cyber.

    1h 5m

  7. 19 JUL

    How To Make A Career Shift: From Teacher To Tech

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Patreon: patreon.com/TechWoke Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke  Time stamps: 3:14 Who is Jasmin Wooton? 6:24 Pivoting Paths: Athlete → Teacher → Tech 20:00 Aligning Your Resume and Interview Skills with the Tech Industry 21:20 Work Experience at Meta 25:10 Working at Snowflake 29:40 From Tech Career to Entrepreneurship 37:58 Automation Tools for Business Process 49:03 Finding Fulfillment Through Entrepreneurship Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Tech Woke." In today’s conversation, host Christopher Okpala sits down with Jasmine Jasper—D1 athlete, former overseas basketball player, teacher, and now a standout entrepreneur in the tech and business process world. Jasmine shares her unique journey from the classroom to the business arena, revealing how her passion for problem solving and building systems led her to empower others to become self-sufficient learners and successful business owners.

    53 min

  8. 8 JUL

    Transitioning From T-Mobile Store Manager to Govtech Software Business Analyst

    Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/   Check out the Patreon: patreon.com/TechWoke Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1   Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke   Time stamps: 00:00 Podcast Prayer of Gratitude 08:29 Chose Health Science Path 11:48 Uncertain Post-Graduation Path 17:25 Love-Hate T-Mobile Experience 20:52 "Turning Laughter Into Motivation" 26:21 Interpreting Sales Data for Strategy 33:43 Aspiring Business Analyst Journey 37:31 "Balancing Work and Job Search" 45:59 Unexpected Reality of Fancy Job Title 52:24 Translating Requirements for Developers 57:26 Adapting from iPhone 6 to 16 01:01:30 Business Analysis Coaching Launch 01:03:26 Guidance for Apple Collaboration Success About this video: Welcome back to another episode of Tech Woke! In today’s conversation, host Christopher Okpala sits down with the vibrant and insightful Dahlia, a certified Scrum Master and Product Owner, who opens up about her unconventional journey into the tech world. From her beginnings in a small Virginia town, navigating the pressures of an immigrant household, to finding her way through college and pivoting from health sciences to a career in business analysis—Dahlia shares the real, relatable ups and downs along the way. You'll hear how she overcame feelings of failure and self-doubt, got her start as an unlikely retail store manager at T-Mobile, and discovered her knack for business analytics through hands-on problem solving and data-driven leadership. Dahlia gets candid about what drove her to finally make the leap into software development, the value of transferable skills, and what being a business analyst actually looks like day-to-day—complete with stories of setbacks, breakthroughs, and her passion for guiding others on similar journeys. Plus, Dahlia reveals the origins of her new consulting business, why she’s committed to helping others break into tech, and drops wisdom everyone can use to pivot their own careers. Stick around for practical advice on selling yourself in interviews, understanding requirements gathering, and achieving a fulfilling work-life balance, all while staying true to your unique path. Let’s jump into this inspiring conversation with Dahlia on this episode of Tech Woke

    1h 8m
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About

Join us as we demystify the tech landscape, offer guidance on educational pathways, and showcase inspirational stories of individuals who have successfully transitioned into tech careers. We address challenges, celebrate triumphs, and equip you with the knowledge and motivation to take your first steps or advance further in the tech world.

Information

  • Creator
    Christopher Okpala
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    53
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Tech Woke

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