Debt Free In IT w/ Mike

Michael Bowden

“This Podcast is for anyone looking to get in the IT industry, whether it’s a career change or your just interested. You come to the right place”

  1. Why Starting at the Bottom Helped My IT Career

    20H AGO

    Why Starting at the Bottom Helped My IT Career

    Send a text In this episode, I talk about the power of starting at the bottom in IT and why it can actually make your career easier in the long run. When many of us get certifications or degrees, we expect to jump straight into high-level roles. But most people start in entry-level positions like operations, help desk, or desktop support. Looking back at my own journey, starting at the bottom helped me: • Learn how IT departments actually operate • Understand what each team is responsible for • Handle pressure during incidents • Build relationships with other engineers • Develop a broader set of technical skills If you’re currently in an entry-level IT role, this episode will help you see why that experience is valuable for your long-term career. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:58 -Intro 02:00 - 05:32 -You Learn How an Organization Actually Operates 05:34 - 09:52 -You Learn What Every Team Actually Does 10:15 - 13:10  -It Taught Me How to Work Under Pressure 13:13 - 16:18  -Building Relationships (Networking) 16:20 - 18:20  -Skillset building Support the show

    19 min
  2. Epic Certifications: The Hidden IT Career in Healthcare

    FEB 27

    Epic Certifications: The Hidden IT Career in Healthcare

    Send a text In my last episode about hidden jobs in IT, I ranked healthcare as the #1 industry. During that episode, I mentioned something most people in tech have never heard of… Epic certifications. In this video, I break down: •What Epic is and why it dominates hospital systems •How Epic certifications actually work (and why you can’t just sign up for one) •Why most IT professionals don’t even know about this path •The real salary outlook for Epic-certified professionals •How to break into healthcare IT and position yourself for sponsorship Epic certifications are different from traditional certs like Cisco or AWS. You must be sponsored by a hospital that uses Epic Systems, and once you’re in, it can lead to stable, high-paying roles in healthcare IT. If you’re looking for a recession-resistant, enterprise-level IT career path that most people overlook — this is one you need to understand ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Timestamps: 00:00 - 01:10 - Intro 01:11 - 02:13 - What is Epic 02:14 - 09:15 - Why most professionals don't know about Epic  09:38 - 13:10  - How Epic Certifications work 13:11 - 15:04  - Average Salary 15:05 - 17:03 - How to target Epic certifications  Support the show

    17 min
  3. My Top 7 Places to Find IT Jobs in Your City

    FEB 20

    My Top 7 Places to Find IT Jobs in Your City

    Send a text In this episode, I break down my Top 7 places to find IT jobs in your city — especially if you don’t live near a big tech hub. A lot of people think you need to work for a flashy tech company to have a real IT career. That’s not true. Some of the most stable, high-paying, and opportunity-filled IT roles are hiding in plain sight. These companies may not look like tech companies… but they run on: • Networks • Servers • Cybersecurity teams • Help desk departments • Enterprise infrastructure In this video, I count down my Top 7 industries hiring IT professionals — starting at #7 and working down to my #1 pick. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Support the show

    24 min
  4. Bootcamps Are a Scam… Or Are They?

    FEB 13

    Bootcamps Are a Scam… Or Are They?

    Send a text Are bootcamps a scam… or are they a shortcut to breaking into tech faster? In today’s episode, I’m breaking down both sides of the bootcamp debate. Some people say bootcamps changed their life. Others say they wasted their money. So which one is it? In this video, I cover: 🎯 The real benefits of going to a bootcamp • Faster entry into the industry (8–24 weeks vs. years in school) • Hands-on, practical training • Portfolio and project building • Career services and networking • Structured learning environment ⚠️ The honest downsides people don’t always talk about • High cost with no job guarantee • Marketing that makes tech seem easier than it is • You can learn similar material online for cheaper • Not built for everyone (requires discipline and grind) At the end of the day — everything works. It just depends on you. If you’re thinking about switching careers, getting into IT, or deciding between a bootcamp, college, or self-study — this episode will help you make a smarter decision. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Support the show

    18 min
  5. IT Contract Jobs: 3 Advantages & 3 Disadvantages

    FEB 6

    IT Contract Jobs: 3 Advantages & 3 Disadvantages

    Send a text Should you take a contract job in IT? In today’s episode, I’m answering a listener question: “I’ve been looking at contract roles… what are your thoughts?” Contract roles can look attractive — especially with higher hourly pay — but like anything in tech, there are trade-offs. In this video, I break down: ✅ 3 Major Advantages of IT Contract Roles ❌ 3 Major Disadvantages of IT Contract Roles We cover: • Higher earning potential (and the tax/benefits caveat) • Faster skill accumulation across multiple infrastructures • Flexibility and networking opportunities • Income instability and benefit trade-offs • Job uncertainty and contract risk • Long-term depth vs breadth in your career If you’re in help desk, trying to pivot into cloud or cybersecurity, or just evaluating your next move in IT — this episode will help you think strategically about whether contract work fits your season. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Support the show

    25 min
  6. Biggest Mistakes After Passing CCNA

    JAN 30

    Biggest Mistakes After Passing CCNA

    Send a text Why do so many people struggle after passing CCNA? In today’s episode, I break down the biggest mistakes people make after earning their CCNA — mistakes that slow down their job search, kill momentum, and lead to unnecessary frustration. If you just passed CCNA, are applying for jobs with no luck, confused about what roles to target, or wondering if you should jump straight to CCNP, this episode is for you. I cover the most common post-CCNA mistakes, including unrealistic salary expectations, applying for the wrong jobs, stopping the job search too soon, overlooking support and MSP roles, and why stacking higher certs without experience can actually hurt you — plus exactly what you should focus on instead to get in the door and build real networking experience. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Support the show

    22 min
  7. Why Most People Quit IT Too Early

    JAN 23

    Why Most People Quit IT Too Early

    Send a text Why do so many people quit IT too early? In today’s episode, I break down the real reasons why people give up on their IT journey — sometimes before they even get their first tech job. If you’re transitioning into tech, stuck in help desk, burned out, or feeling discouraged, this episode is for you. I cover five of the biggest reasons people quit IT too early, including unrealistic expectations, burnout, pay myths, intimidating job descriptions, and imposter syndrome — plus what you can do to avoid making these mistakes and stay on track. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Support the show

    29 min
  8. Welcome to the Call Center: Your First Tech Role

    JAN 16

    Welcome to the Call Center: Your First Tech Role

    Send a text Today’s episode comes from a listener question. They asked if I could do a story-time episode about my experience working in a call center and how everything worked out. They mentioned they’ve been in a call center for about a year, want to leave badly, and that hearing stories like this helps them push through. The call center is usually where a lot of IT professionals get their start. I talk a lot of junk about call centers and being on the phones, but I also think those early experiences can prepare you for other roles as you progress in your career. In today’s episode, I talk about:  • How I got into the call center and what it was really like  • Why it was the first job I ever quit  • The different types of call centers and phone-based roles  • Some advantages and disadvantages of being on the phones  • And how to transition off the phones into better opportunities If you’re currently in a call center or working a phone-heavy role, this episode is for you. ⸻ 🛒 My Amazon Store: Books + gear to level up in tech: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike 📬 The Log Files Newsletter: Real tips to break into IT. 👉 https://thelogfiles.beehiiv.com/subscribe ⸻ #CCNA #NetworkingLabs #CiscoLabs #ITCareer #debtfreeinit  💡 Have a question or a topic suggestion? Drop it in the comments or email me at Debtfreeinit@gmail.com! 🌐 Connect with me: 📸 Instagram | 🎥 TikTok | 👍 Facebook: @DebtFreeInIT 🔗 Website: http://debtfreeinitwithmike.com 📌 If this helped you, drop a comment and let me know — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone trying to break into tech 💻 Support the Channel: cash.app/$DebtFreeinIT *This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission ***************************************** Listen to Debt Free in IT w/ Mike ****************************************** Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: Debt Free In IT w/ Mike Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Website: www.debtfreeinitwithmike.com For support inquires, or business inquiries, please email Debtfreeinit@gmail.com Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. Start your free trial here  https://share.epidemicsound.com/vi35vl Follow me on Social Media (When you add me, inbox me and say What's Up!) IG: @debtfreeinit TikTok: @debtfreeinit Linkedin: Michael Bowden Support the show

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

“This Podcast is for anyone looking to get in the IT industry, whether it’s a career change or your just interested. You come to the right place”

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Bowden
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    170
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Debt Free In IT w/ Mike
  • Show Website
    Debt Free In IT w/ Mike

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