The IT XP The IT XP

Strap in as I take you back to my adventure at Western Governors University, where I crushed my Master of Science in Management and Leadership in one term (six months). Riding on the wisdom from a pivotal Reddit thread and armed with the solid gold insights from the Purdue OWL, I'm here to lay it all out bare: the good, the bad, and the brutally honest truths about speeding through WGU's competency based learning program. In this episode, I'm not just reminiscing about my academic grind during those intense months; I'm breaking down the strategies that could help you blaze through your own program even faster. But let’s cut through the noise for a second, will this degree be your golden ticket to the executive suite? Probably not on its own.
Coming at you with nothing but the truth, I want to talk about what a degree really means for us folks who've seen a bit more of life. As we dive into the realities of adult education, career pivots in a mid-life context, and the looming shadow of AI in our professional lives, I'm here to show you not just how to earn that diploma, but how to make it truly count in the hustle of real life. So, for anyone out there contemplating hitting the books again, eyeing a career change, or simply curious about the evolving role of academic credentials in an age dominated by technology, you're in the right place. Remember, success isn't just about the accolades; it's about the drive and determination you bring to the table. Let's unpack how to get that degree to open doors and create opportunities, no matter where you are in life’s journey. Join me, and let's get into it.
My MBA Journey: https://youtu.be/I3ibA8S1DyI
The Reddit Article that started me on this journey: https://www.reddit.com/r/WGU_MBA/comments/gmxkxo/mba_master_of_business_administration_course_mega/
My Favorite Online Writing Lab that shows you how to format your paper in different styles: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/graduate_writing/introduction_graduate_writing/index.html
 

In this episode I discuss two paid platforms for your multi-cloud learning. These platforms I have leveraged in my own journey and I stand behind them. I know times are tough, but for those looking for a paid option to learn the various cloud platforms, these two may interest you.
A Cloud Guru:
https://www.pluralsight.com/cloud-guru
Adrian Cantrill's Learning Platform (AWS and Azure only):
https://learn.cantrill.io/
 
 

The cloud started off with well intentions of bringing more products to market faster, but it has turned into a competing race on how to optimize costs while deploying products at break neck speeds. I talked about how you can begin your multi-cloud journey because it is no longer a one provider show. Most organizations have gone multi-cloud and others are following suit. This show aims to help guide you on how you should approach learning all the clouds; well at least AWS, Azure, and GCP. Pardon the rant earlier in the episode. I started using a new service called Riverside.fm (Not sponsored) and it was challenging to say the least.

In this episode I discuss the concept of overemployment. What it is, why it may be something you want to dig into and what I'm going to do to uncover pros and cons in this overemployment mindset. Remember, overemployed does not equal overworked!

Being laid off is a gut punch. I know, I've been there twice. But guess what? I turned those lemons into lemonade (metaphorically, of course - who has the energy for a real lemonade stand after that?).
My 9/11 Story: https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/theitxp/498529485-theitxp-my-9112001-story.mp3
FreeCodeCamp: https://www.youtube.com/c/Freecodecamp
Cybrary.it: https://www.cybrary.it/
HomeLab Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/homelab/comments/10v6aip/guide_how_to_deploy_the_servarr_stack_on/
In this video, I'm spilling the tea on:
My personal layoff rollercoaster: How I went from "OMG, I'm jobless" to "Okay, new beginnings!" (Spoiler alert: there were tears, but also tacos. )
Actionable tips to navigate the layoff storm: From spotting the early signs to bouncing back like a boss.
Free resources to future-proof your career: Say goodbye to layoff anxiety with intel on potential mass layoffs and upskilling tools you NEED.
Whether you're facing layoff fears or just want to be prepared, this video is your Layoff Survival Kit. Hit play and let's turn lemons into opportunities!
P.S. Don't forget to smash that like button and subscribe for more career hacks!

Ditch the tech-coma and slay your 2024 goals! ⚔️
Procrastination got you in a chokehold? Career stuck in the buffering zone? Time to unleash the SMART goal secret weapon and rocket-boost your IT game. This ain't no burnout bonanza. We're talking consistent progress, confidence levels on fire, and finally unlocking your inner tech titan. 2024 is your year for IT domination, and SMART goals are your key to the kingdom. Ready to: Crush deadlines like bugs Code like a caffeine-fueled keyboard ninja Level up your skills faster than a viral tweet Leave burnout in the dust and watch your confidence soar ✨
Then hit that subscribe button and join the SMART goal revolution. We'll be cracking the code on career success, sharing epic wins, and proving to your mom you don't just "fix computers." This is your year to dominate, tech fam. Let's make 2024 legendary!