Tech Woke

Christopher Okpala
  • 5.0 (19)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. MAR 19

    How to Break Into GovTech Cybersecurity (What Nobody Tells You)

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamps: 00:00 "Mastering RMF Execution" 06:44 "Getting Sponsored for Clearance" 09:05 "Certifications: Value and Limitations" 12:24 "Keys to Successful Hiring" 15:38 Lessons From Early Jobs 18:29 "Cyber Professionals: Know Your Limits" 20:21 Interview Success: Embrace Uncertainty 23:36 "Hiring Based on Qualifications" 27:45 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Naturally 30:35 "Ask the 'Dumb' Question" 34:32 Navigating Technology and Mission Challenges 37:19 "Challenges in Cybersecurity Foundations" 40:26 "Dynamic Cloud Needs Automated Security" 45:20 "Choosing Time, Values, Security" 46:57 "Prioritize Family Over Job" VIdeo Description: Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast with your host Christopher Okpala. In this episode, Christopher sits down with seasoned cybersecurity executive Dan Bradley, who brings over 25 years of experience across civil service, leadership at CISA, and government contracting. If you’ve ever wondered how to break into GovTech cybersecurity, how security clearances really work, or what it actually takes to grow in federal tech roles, this episode breaks it all down in a real and practical way. Dan shares his journey from humble beginnings to leadership in cybersecurity, along with honest insights on what separates people who succeed in GovTech from those who struggle. This conversation covers: • How to break into GovTech and cybersecurity with no experience • The truth about security clearances and certifications • What hiring managers actually look for in candidates • Common mistakes that hold people back in tech careers • How to succeed on experienced cybersecurity teams • The role of soft skills in GovTech environments • Real challenges in government cybersecurity and leadership • Career growth, mindset, and long-term success strategies Whether you're trying to land your first cybersecurity job, transition into GRC or RMF, or grow within the GovTech space, this episode gives you the roadmap and mindset you need. Subscribe for more content on cybersecurity, RMF, GRC, GovTech, and tech career growth.  Like, comment, and share if this helped you.

    49 min

  2. MAR 12

    Why Most People Don’t Get Tech Jobs (Recruiter Explains the Truth)

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamp:: 00:00 "Non-Traditional Path Into Tech" 09:25 "Leaving the Stoop" 13:21 "Evolution of Job Recruiting Platforms" 16:14 "Recruiter Skills and Hiring Needs" 22:15 Recruitment Funnel Explained 26:40 Recruiter Challenges in Time Management 35:48 "Embracing Tough Conversations" 38:24 "Tough Conversations About Value" 46:38 "Confidence in Recruitment Negotiations" 49:49 "Knowing Your Value and Impact" 55:58 "Mastering Storytelling in Job Interviews" 01:02:19 "People Don't Forget" 01:06:03 "Keep Thriving and Inspiring" VIdeo Description: Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast, the show where we break down the real pathways into tech careers, cybersecurity, and the strategies people use to build success in the industry. In this episode, I sit down with Dino Anagbogu, founder, program manager, and technical recruiter, who shares his unconventional journey from the sales floors of Chicago to working inside the fast moving tech ecosystem of Silicon Valley. We talk about what it really takes to break into tech, the risks behind leaving stable jobs for new opportunities, and why betting on yourself can completely change your career trajectory. Dino also pulls back the curtain on the recruiting process for tech jobs, explaining the realities behind hiring decisions, the competition in today’s market, and what candidates must do to stand out. We also discuss the power of storytelling in interviews, building relationships with recruiters, and how saying yes to the right opportunities can open doors you never expected. If you are trying to land your first tech job, transition into cybersecurity, or understand how recruiters actually think, this conversation is packed with real insight you do not want to miss. Welcome to the Tech Woke Podcast.

    1h 8m

  3. MAR 4

    Cloud Security Isn’t Entry-Level… Here’s How Beginners Actually Get In

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Rate This Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamp: 00:00 "Master RMF for Cybersecurity" 04:12 From Basketball to Computer Science 07:34 "Training Program Commitment" 11:05 "Passion Through Process and Community" 13:26 Post-Internship Job Struggles 15:37 "Networking for Job Success" 19:04 "Understanding Data Centers & Cloud" 24:19 Becoming a Cloud Security Engineer 26:19 Cloud Security Engineering Expertise 28:57 Cybersecurity Troubleshooting and Coordination 32:19 "Cybersecurity Basics for Hackers" 35:36 "Hands-On Learning and Challenges" 38:36 Managing Risks Independently 40:53 AI, Cloud, and Human Connection 45:11 "Cloud Lab Platforms Recommendation" VIdeo Description: In this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, Christopher Okpala sits down with Marc Lawrence, founder of Respect the Tech, to talk about how people can break into cybersecurity, cloud security, and the broader tech industry even if they’re starting with little or no experience. Christopher and Marc have a real conversation about what it takes to start a career in cybersecurity and cloud computing. They discuss the power of networking, building hands-on experience with AWS and Azure, and how documenting your projects can help you land your first tech job. Marc also shares insights from the Respect the Tech community and explains how attending tech networking events, job fairs, and cybersecurity meetups can create opportunities that online job applications often don’t. If you’re trying to get into cybersecurity, cloud security, cloud computing, or IT, this episode provides practical advice on where to start, how to build real skills, and how to stay focused while learning. In this episode we talk about: • How to break into cybersecurity with no experience • Why networking events and job fairs are powerful for tech careers • How to start building hands-on cloud experience with AWS and Azure • Why sharing cloud projects and cybersecurity labs can strengthen your resume • The importance of community, mentorship, and collaboration in tech • How to avoid information overload when learning cybersecurity or cloud security If you’re interested in cybersecurity careers, cloud security careers, IT careers, AWS, Azure, or breaking into tech, this episode will give you a clear starting point. Subscribe for more conversations about cybersecurity, cloud security, RMF, GovTech, and tech career growth. #Cybersecurity #CloudSecurity #TechCareers

    47 min

  4. FEB 26

    Is RMF Broken? The Real Reason ATOs Keep Getting Delayed

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Check out Openrmf: https://www.soteriasoft.com/products/openrmf-professional.html Timestamps: 00:00 "Mastering RMF Real-World Skills" 04:24 From Help Desk to Cybersecurity 07:10 "Understanding Frameworks and Perspectives" 09:50 "Breaking Down IT Misconceptions" 14:31 Improving Processes Through Communication 17:11 "Streamlining Solutions and Efficiency" 20:59 "Streamlining RFP Team Collaboration" 24:17 "Web-Based Tools vs. Client-Based" 26:43 "Web-Based Third-Party Assessments" 32:40 Automation and Data Integration Progress 35:13 Automated Cybersecurity and Data Integration 36:18 Automated Data Management Possibilities 40:20 "Automating for Efficiency" 43:53 Automated Compliance with Elastic SIEM 46:03 "Enhanced Layered Security Compliance" 49:37 "Improving RMF and Education" Video Description: If you’re navigating the world of government cybersecurity compliance, this episode is for you. On this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, I sat down with the founders of Soteria Software, Dale Bingham and David Gould, to unpack how automation is transforming the Risk Management Framework (RMF) process. We discuss how tools like OpenRMF are streamlining control implementation, accelerating documentation, reducing manual workload, and saving organizations millions in compliance costs. We also break down: Continuous ATO (cATO) strategies RMF automation in DoD and federal environments NIST SP 800-53 control management POA&M optimization eMASS workflow challenges Compliance tool integration DevSecOps and cybersecurity governance Common RMF misconceptions How education reduces compliance risk If you’re an ISSO, ISSM, security engineer, GRC analyst, contractor, or working in DoD cybersecurity, FedRAMP, CMMC, or federal compliance, this conversation will change how you think about automation and compliance execution.

    51 min

  5. FEB 18

    How to Break Into Cloud Security in 2026

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamps: 00:00 "Master RMF Execution Skills" 05:22 "Career Uncertainty and Next Steps" 08:50 Evaluating Cybersecurity Degree Programs 11:21 From Job Quit to SOC Internship 12:42 Cybersecurity Projects and Insights 16:29 Vulnerability Management and Team Grading 21:08 Workplace Culture Shapes Experience 25:09 Platform Transition & User Support 26:26 Cloud Solution Architect Role 31:46 AI Data Security Concerns 33:22 Comprehensive DLP and User Training 38:29 Strategic Planning and Networking Tips 42:28 Navigating Trends and Personal Choices 45:54 Cyber Love Story Gone Wrong 46:41 "Being a Voice for Us" 49:30 "Improve Daily: Like & Subscribe" Video Description:  Welcome back to another episode of Tech Woke. In this episode, Christopher Okpala sits down with Destini Simmons (Cyber Shorty), Solutions Engineer, Cybersecurity Instructor, and Co-Host of the Textual Chatter podcast, to break down how she transitioned from a Criminal Justice major to a thriving career in cloud and cybersecurity. This is a real conversation about what it actually takes to break into tech in 2026. Destini shares • How she pivoted into cybersecurity with no traditional tech background • Why degrees and certifications alone will not get you hired • How to strategically plan your cybersecurity career path • The importance of networking and building your online presence • How to use AI tools to map out your learning and career goals • What hiring managers and recruiters actually look for • The mindset required to survive and thrive in tech If you are trying to break into cybersecurity, cloud security, or tech with no experience, this episode gives you practical strategy, not fluff. Whether you are a beginner, career switcher, or already in IT looking to level up, this conversation will help you understand how to stand out in a competitive tech job market. Subscribe to Tech Woke for real conversations about cybersecurity careers, GRC, cloud security, AI governance, and breaking into tech the smart way. #Cybersecurity #CloudSecurity #TechCareers

    50 min

  6. FEB 12

    How to Get Into Cybersecurity in 2026 With No Experience

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Guest Information: 🔗 https://solo.to/intelwave 🔗 https://www.skool.com/intelwave-3354/about Timestamp: 00:00 "Mastering RMF for Cybersecurity" 04:04 "Proving Skills Over Credentials" 07:33 Cybersecurity Career Prep Insights 10:51 Intentional Networking for Cybersecurity Success 13:03 "Path to Cybersecurity: It Depends" 19:10 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Career Options 21:45 Cybersecurity: Teamwork & Collaboration Skills 25:35 "Build Relationships, Not Just Apply" 27:40 "LinkedIn: Key to Cybersecurity Networking" 32:34 Optimize LinkedIn for SOC Analyst 36:10 Networking for RMF on LinkedIn 37:06 Networking for RMF Career Growth 41:04 "Building Your Personal Brand" 44:53 "Persistence, Discipline, Strategy, Action" 48:39 Cybersecurity Education for Youth Video Description:  In this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, Christopher Okpala sits down with cybersecurity threat intelligence analyst Nigel Boston to break down the real strategy for getting into cybersecurity in 2026 with no experience. This conversation goes beyond certifications and generic advice. They talk about what actually works in today’s competitive tech market including choosing the right cybersecurity role, building hands-on projects, learning cloud fundamentals, and developing proof of work that hiring managers respect. Nigel shares a clear step-by-step roadmap for beginners, explains why certifications alone are not enough, and dives into the power of intentional networking, LinkedIn branding, and relationship-building to stand out from thousands of applicants. They also discuss how to build a strong personal brand, how to optimize your LinkedIn profile for recruiters, what entry-level cybersecurity roles make sense in 2026 such as SOC analyst and vulnerability management, and why soft skills like communication and documentation matter just as much as technical ability. If you are transitioning from retail, customer service, education, or another non-tech field and want to break into cybersecurity, this episode gives you practical, realistic guidance on how to do it the right way. No shortcuts. No hype. Just real strategy that works.

    50 min

  7. JAN 28

    Breaking Into Cybersecurity: Career Roadmaps and Training Insights with Jason Dion

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Jason Dion Free Book: https://tldrcybersecurity.com/subscribe Timestamp: 00:00 "Exam Questions: Wording Matters" 04:32 "Roadmap to Becoming a Hacker" 08:01 "Is Pen Testing Right?" 10:14 Simplifying Complex Tech Concepts 15:17 "Mastering NIST Cybersecurity Framework" 18:48 "Practical Certifications vs. Theoretical" 20:42 "Balanced Approach to Exam Prep" 24:02 "Applicant Tracking Systems Explained" 28:06 "CISSP: Key to Job Interviews" 29:39 Military Networking Drives Career Opportunities 32:20 "From IT to Military Engineering" 37:17 "Generational Tech Understanding Gap" 40:15 Age Perception in Consulting Careers 44:35 "AI Adoption and Responsible Use" 46:17 "Adapting to Rapid AI Changes" 51:25 "Building Practical Certifications Independently" 52:49 AI Revolutionizing Skill-Based Hiring 55:54 "Taking a Career Shot" Video Decription: Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast. In this episode, host Christopher Okpala sits down with Jason Dion, one of the most trusted cybersecurity educators in the industry, whose training has helped over a million people break into IT and cybersecurity. They break down how beginners with zero tech experience can choose the right certifications, avoid common mistakes, and build real, job-ready skills. Jason also shares practical advice on hands-on learning, navigating today’s cybersecurity job market, and how AI and cloud technologies are reshaping tech careers. Whether you’re transitioning from a non-tech background or looking to future-proof your career, this conversation delivers clear, real-world guidance for breaking into cybersecurity the right way.

    58 min

  8. JAN 21

    How to Break Into Federal Cybersecurity With No Experience

    RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamp: 00:00 "Appreciation for Sharing Opportunities" 05:01 "RMF and GRC Job Outlook" 07:00 AI: Adaptation Over Replacement 11:10 "Preparing for Quantum Future" 13:54 "AI, Innovation, and Uncertainty" 17:10 "Verify AI-Generated Information Carefully" 20:35 "AI, Quantum, and Cybersecurity Trends" 23:30 "Cybersecurity Learning and Application" 25:44 "Coursera for Cybersecurity Labs" 31:09 Rethinking Cybersecurity Education 34:59 "Accountability in Teaching" 35:56 "Roadmap to Security+ Success" 40:59 "Cybersecurity Careers: Study & Network" 42:14 "Embrace Rejection for Success" 46:05 "Faith and God's Plan" 48:54 "Stay Focused and Plan Ahead" Video Decription: Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast. In this episode, host Christopher Okpala sits down with Antione Searcy, an adjunct professor and federal cybersecurity veteran, to talk honestly about breaking into regulated tech and federal cybersecurity careers. Antione shares his real journey applying to hundreds of jobs, facing rejection, and eventually landing roles in government cybersecurity and compliance, while explaining what actually matters when trying to enter fields like GRC, RMF, and federal cyber with no prior experience. The conversation explores how mentorship, networking, and hands on learning outperform traditional education alone, and how AI and automation are reshaping cybersecurity and compliance careers. Whether you are trying to break into cybersecurity, government tech, GRC, RMF, or AI governance, this episode delivers practical advice and real world insight for people who want clarity, stability, and a long term path into regulated tech careers.

    51 min
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5
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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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Tech Woke

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