Hacker Proof HQ

Hacker Proof HQ

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Navigating a Career in Cloud Engineering: Skills, Mentorship, Interviews & Salary Insights

In this episode, we featured the founder of Cloudtechexec, a cloud engineer, cloud career coach, and IT content creator known for simplifying complex tech careers into practical, actionable steps. From interviewing IT professionals at major industry summits to sharing real insights on certifications, salaries, and career growth, his work has helped make cloud engineering more accessible and achievable for aspiring and experienced tech professionals alike. He opens up about his journey into cloud engineering, the challenges he faced breaking into tech, how to find the right mentor, strategies for interviewing and negotiating salary, and how he built Cloudtechexec, including the criteria he uses to select members of the community. This conversation is packed with real-world advice you can apply immediately if you’re just getting started in IT or already working in tech and looking to level up. Topics CoveredBreaking into cloud engineeringSecurity+ and certifications in techFinding and leveraging mentorshipCloud vs DevOps careersInterview success strategiesSalary negotiation in techWork-life balance for cloud engineersBuilding CloudTechExec & future projects⏱️ Timestamps0:39 – Introduction1:44 – Why CompTIA Security+ Matters in Tech2:13 – The Importance of Mentorship in Tech Careers3:47 – Smart Investment Advice for People in Tech6:05 – Common Challenges When Starting a Tech Career6:52 – How to Find the Right Mentors7:47 – My Journey Into Cloud Engineering9:39 – The Best Way to Learn New Tech Skillsets11:25 – Benefits of Being Proficient in Multiple Cloud Platforms14:06 – Cloud Engineering vs DevOps: Key Differences14:45 – Showing Income as an IT Content Creator15:31 – Full-Gaze Opportunities in the DevOps Space18:00 – How to Measure Success in a Tech Interview19:35 – Why You Should Ask Questions at the End of Interviews21:13 – Salary Negotiation Tips for Tech Professionals21:57 – Do Cloud Engineers Earn More Than Their Managers?22:48 – Work-Life Balance in Cloud Engineering24:45 – How CloudTechExec Started25:25 – Requirements for Joining CloudTechExec26:31 – HackerProof Team Introductions30:21 – CloudTechExec’s Next Project30:44 – Closing Remarks💡 Big News — HackerProofHQ Newsletter Is Live! Get exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and insider tech career tips delivered straight to your inbox. 🔗 https://www.hackerproofhq.com/ 🔗 Connect With Our GuestCloudTechExec on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cloudtechexec🔗 Connect With HackerProofHQInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackerproofhqTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hacker.proofTwitter/X: /hackerproofhq📧 For inquiries or suggestions: Info@hackerproofhq.com ☕ Support the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/6fbd8... Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

31 min
21 JAN

Building a UX Career: UI/UX Design, Tech Contracting & Fractional Consulting

In this episode of Hacker Proof HQ, we sit down with Justice Collier, a fractional UI/UX designer, agency owner, and educator, to break down what it really takes to build a successful UX career in today’s tech industry. Justice shares real-world insights on breaking into UI/UX design, building a tech contracting business, running a UX agency, and using automation to scale sustainably—all while designing a lifestyle that supports both career growth and personal balance. We dive deep into: How UX designers actually make moneyUX salaries across industriesThe demand for UX designers in 2024 and beyondEntry-level UX challenges (and how to overcome them)What fractional consulting is and how designers can leverage itHow to get your first UX or tech contracting experienceWhether you’re a beginner trying to break into UX, an experienced designer exploring freelance or fractional consulting, or someone interested in building a UX agency or contracting business, this episode delivers practical advice you can apply immediately. Topics CoveredUI/UX career pathsTech contracting & consultingUX agency ownershipAutomation for business growthUX salaries & income streamsEntry-level UX job market realitiesFractional UX consulting explainedWork-life balance in techEpisode Timestamps00:41 – Opening Remarks 01:24 – Introduction 02:22 – Balancing UX Work & Agency Life 03:11 – Automating Business & Agency Processes 04:05 – Getting Started in UI/UX Engineering 06:35 – Cheat Codes for Succeeding in Tech 10:14 – Building a UX Training Academy 12:24 – Helping Others Break Into UI/UX 15:02 – Starting a Tech Contracting Business 16:38 – Getting Your First Contracting Experience 19:01 – Designing a Lifestyle Around Tech 24:06 – UX Job Market Demand 25:28 – Entry-Level UX Challenges 26:13 – UX Designer Salaries Across Industries 27:09 – What Is Fractional Consulting? 28:16 – Advice for Aspiring UX Designers Connect with Our GuestJustice Collier (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/technicallyjai/ About Hacker Proof HQHacker Proof HQ is a tech-focused podcast exploring careers in tech, breaking into the industry, digital skills, and entrepreneurship. 📩 Newsletter: https://www.hackerproofhq.com/ 📧 Inquiries: Info@hackerproofhq.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

30 min
8 JAN

What Cloud Governance Engineers Actually Do: Tools, Skills & GovTech Career Path (ft. Abdie Mohamed)

How do you break into cloud engineering and build a high-impact career in GovTech? In this episode of the HackerProofHQ Podcast, we sit down with Abdie Mohamed, Lead Cloud Governance Engineer at Lockheed Martin, to unpack what cloud governance engineers actually do, the tools they use, and how to build a sustainable, well-paid career in government and enterprise cloud environments. Abdie shares real-world insights from his journey into tech — from landing his first role without a traditional background to specializing in cloud governance and long-term career strategy. Topics Covered• Breaking into tech with a non-traditional background • The real benefits and values of working in GovTech • Common challenges faced in the tech industry • Leveraging transferable skills to accelerate your career • Balancing side hustles while working in tech • What cloud governance is and why it matters • Tools used to implement governance in cloud environments • Long-term career planning and investing as a tech professional Whether you’re an aspiring cloud engineer, a tech professional exploring cloud governance, or curious about GovTech careers, this episode delivers practical, actionable insights. Episode Timestamps00:45 – Introduction 01:43 – Journey into Tech 04:52 – First Job in Tech 08:05 – Top 3 Values of Working in Government Tech 11:30 – Challenges Along the Journey 13:20 – Leveraging Transferable Skills 14:18 – Side Hustles as a Tech Professional 16:12 – Long-Term Career Goals 16:32 – Cloud Governance as a Tech Niche 16:43 – Top 2 Things to Know for Cloud Governance Careers 17:30 – Tools Used in Cloud Governance 19:13 – Investing as a Tech Professional 23:21 – Closing Remarks Notable Links & ResourcesHackerProofHQ Newsletter: https://www.hackerproofhq.com/ Connect with Abdie Mohamed: https://www.instagram.com/abdiethespeaker Follow HackerProofHQ: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackerproofhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hacker.proofhq Twitter/X: https://x.com/HackerproofHQ Donate & Support the Podcast: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/6fbd8... Business Inquiries: Info@hackerproofhq.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

26 min
26/11/2025

Networking, Career Growth, and Opportunity with NexoAfrica

Networking is one of the most misunderstood skills in career development. In this episode of Hacker Proof HQ, we sit down with NexoAfrica, a career-driven community helping young professionals access real opportunities through intentional networking and strategic community building. NexoAfrica connects individuals across Africa and globally to high-value opportunities in industries like technology, finance, and investment banking. Their approach goes beyond traditional networking, focusing on exposure, visibility, and placing talented people in the rooms where real decisions are made. In this conversation, we break down how NexoAfrica operates, how to join their community, and what it actually takes to stand out professionally. If you are early in your career, transitioning industries, or looking to expand your professional network with purpose, this episode will give you practical insight and clarity. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What NexoAfrica does and who the community servesHow to join NexoAfrica and access opportunitiesThe right way to network without forcing connectionsHow to navigate career transitions and growthNexoAfrica’s five-year vision and long-term missionGuest:NexoAfrica Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nexoafrica Episode Timestamps:00:31 – Episode Introduction 01:14 – What NexoAfrica Does 01:57 – Meet the NexoAfrica Team 05:27 – NexoAfrica’s Mission 06:28 – How to Join NexoAfrica 08:15 – Moving From Point A to B in Your Career 09:57 – Team Roles Explained 15:56 – NexoAfrica in Five Years 18:58 – Switching From Tech to Investment Banking 21:15 – Feedback From the Hacker Proof HQ Event 25:00 – Building Community and Vibe Curation 30:13 – How to Network the Right Way 32:44 – Questions for Hacker Proof HQ 41:49 – Episode Outro Tools & Resources:Cloud Security Playbook (Free): https://www.hackerproof.com Resume Refresh and Career Coaching: https://www.hackerproof.com Support the Podcast: https://ko-fi.com/hackerproofhq Follow Hacker Proof HQ:Instagram: https://instagram.com/hackerproofhq TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hacker.proof.hq Twitter/X: https://x.com/Hackerproofhq LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hackerproofhq/ Join Our Mentorship Community:GroupMe RSVP: https://groupme.com/join_group/105257731/ivbM8PpE Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

43 min
05/11/2025

Episode 11 — Cybersecurity Expert & Author: Wendy’s Journey from Security to PhD

In this episode, we sit down with Wendy, a seasoned cybersecurity professional, author, and advocate for women in tech. She shares her inspiring journey from breaking into the field to earning a PhD, and what it truly takes to thrive in cybersecurity and tech careers in 2025. You’ll learn: How women can stand out in male-dominated tech spacesPractical entry routes into cybersecurity this yearThe real value of a PhD in advancing your careerHow AI is shaping the next generation of tech professionalsKey takeaways from Wendy’s latest cybersecurity bookIf you’re a student, cybersecurity enthusiast, or a woman looking to grow in tech, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply right away. Guest Links: 📚 Get Wendy’s Book → https://a.co/d/iOIm1yR 📸 Follow Wendy on Instagram → @wendyintech Timestamps: 00:45 – Intro 01:30 – Meet Wendy 02:45 – What She Does in Cybersecurity 03:10 – Thriving in a Male-Dominated Field 08:00 – How Women Can Make Their Voices Heard 14:33 – Does Your Degree Really Matter? 17:15 – Entry Routes Into Cybersecurity 20:35 – Work–Life Balance 21:45 – The Value of a PhD 25:35 – Should Gen Z Focus More on AI? 27:10 – About Wendy’s Book 29:40 – Key Lessons 34:55 – Outro Resources Mentioned: 🧰 Cloud Security Playbook (Free) 💼 Resume Refresh & Career Coaching ☕ Support the Podcast on Ko-fi Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

36 min
22/10/2025

3 Most Valuable Business Analyst Skills (That Will Get You Hired in 2025)

In this episode of Hacker Proof HQ, Daniel sits down with Ami, a thriving ServiceNow expert and Business Analyst, to unpack how she broke into tech — and how you can too. We cover everything from how to become a Business Analyst to real salary expectations, top certifications, and what a BA actually does in the tech world. Whether you’re transitioning into tech or looking to level up in your current role, this conversation is packed with career tips, tools, and insider advice that will help you succeed. 💡 What You’ll Learn:How to start a Business Analyst career in techThe real day-to-day responsibilities of a BASalary ranges and growth opportunitiesTop certifications and tools every BA should knowHow to transition into tech from a non-technical background 👩🏽‍💻 Guest:Ami – Business Analyst & ServiceNow Specialist Instagram: @aimsterdamn_ 🔗 Resources & Links:Free Cloud Security Playbook: hackerproof.comResume Refresh & Coaching: hackerproof.comSupport the Podcast: ko-fi.com/hackerproofhq🎧 Listen Everywhere:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts Search: Hacker Proof HQ 📰 Join Our Tech Community:Newsletter: Stay updated with tech tools & job tips → hackerproof.comInstagram: @hackerproofhqTikTok: @hacker.proof.hqLinkedIn: Hacker Proof HQ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

30 min
01/10/2025

How Juwon The Techie Quit Entrepreneurship & Built a Tech Career — Hacker Proof HQ Podcast

Ready to leave entrepreneurship or another field behind and jump into a stable tech career? In this episode of the Hacker Proof HQ Podcast, host Daniel sits down with Juwon “The Techie” Isola‑Osobu, a Senior Product & Solution Design Manager who has helped more than 1 000 students land their first roles in tech juwonthetechie.com. Juwon explains why he chose to quit entrepreneurship, how he built a successful career in tech and the strategies he recommends for beginners — including those with zero experience. You’ll hear about the biggest challenges newcomers face (like imposter syndrome and lack of mentors) and how to overcome them, plus tips on building your personal brand and networking strategically. Key Takeaways: – Practical steps to get into tech when you’re starting from scratch. – Real talk on obstacles (fast‑changing tools, job‑search fatigue) and how to stay motivated. – Why personal branding and community make a huge difference in your career journey. – Insights from Juwon’s training program, which has supported over 1 000 aspiring technologists juwonthetechie.com. Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Juwon’s background 3:20 – Why he left entrepreneurship 7:45 – First steps to break into tech 15:10 – Challenges & how to overcome them 24:00 – Building your brand & networking 31:00 – Closing thoughts & resources Like what you hear? Subscribe to Hacker Proof HQ on RedCircle (or your favorite podcast app) for weekly episodes on tech careers, cloud security, cybersecurity and DevSecOps. Join our newsletter at hackerproofhq.com for free resources and job tips. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @hackerproofhq for daily insights, and feel free to rate and review the show—your feedback helps others discover it! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

32 min
17/09/2025

Product Manager vs Influencer Earnings (2025): Income, AI & Work‑Life Insights with Ariel

Are product managers really paid more than influencers? In this candid chat with tech PM and content creator Ariel Marie, we break down the real numbers, including how brand deals and salary structures compare in 2025. We also explore how AI tools are transforming product management and social media, and how to balance a demanding tech career with a thriving online presence. In this episode: • Salary & compensation comparisons between product managers and social‑media influencers • How communication skills and personal branding land lucrative deals • AI tools every PM should know (and how creators use them) • Balancing work, content creation and personal life • Ariel’s journey from corporate tech to social media—and back Resources mentioned: – Ariel’s Instagram: @arielmarieg – Hacker Proof HQ newsletter & community – Free guide: “Tech Career & Creator Income Checklist” Join the conversation: Share your questions or salary experiences in the comments, follow @HackerProofHQ on social and rate & review the podcast to help more listeners discover it. #ProductManagerSalary #InfluencerIncome #TechCareers #AI #WorkLifeBalance #HackerProofHQ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/hacker-proof-hq/donations

37 min

You source of truth for everything Tech & Cybersecurity Careers

Creator

Hacker Proof HQ
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

19
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© All rights reserved.
Show Website

Hacker Proof HQ