Virtually Speaking Podcast

VMUG is an independent, global, customer-led organization, created to maximize members’ use of VMware and partner solutions through knowledge sharing, training, collaboration, and events. In a new exclusive benefit to VMware User Group (VMUG) members, Broadcom will provide VMUG Advantage subscribers a 50% discount on VMware Certified Professional (VCP) and VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) certification exams. Upon successful completion of a VMware Cloud Foundation certification exam (VCP or VCAP), VMUG Advantage members will have access to a free personal use VMware Cloud Foundation license for up to three years. On this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, VMUG Executive Director Brad Tompkins walks us through these exciting changes for the VMware Community.

In this episode, we talk with Darin Zook, TNZ Product Marketing Engineer, and Keith Lee, TNZ Technical Marketing Architect at Broadcom, about the growing trend of application repatriation from the public cloud. Discover how VMware Cloud Foundation and VMware Tanzu Platform work together to create a powerful private cloud solution that balances cost, security, and governance for both containerized and traditional VM workloads. We also explore how this approach meets the speed and simplicity demands of modern app developers, helping businesses redefine their cloud strategy for success. Tune in for actionable insights into building a future-proof private cloud!

In this episode, we sit down with Guy Bartram, Senior Manager of Product Marketing at Broadcom, to discuss the critical importance of adopting a sovereign cloud strategy in today’s data-driven world. With increasing regulations and heightened concerns around data protection, Guy explains how VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) empowers businesses to meet stringent data sovereignty requirements. Discover how VCF’s locally built, jurisdictionally controlled, and locally operated approach provides unparalleled security, compliance, and flexibility—all while driving innovation. Tune in to learn why a VMware-powered sovereign cloud is the key to a future-proof cloud strategy!

In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Morera from VCF Technical Marketing at Broadcom and Motti Beck from NVIDIA Corporation to explore how data processing units (DPUs) are transforming private cloud infrastructure. Inspired by hyperscaler advancements, DPUs are enabling greater scale and enhanced security for VMware Cloud Foundation environments—without increasing operational complexity. We also take a closer look at the United States Senate Federal Credit Union’s journey, showcasing how they leveraged DPUs and VMware NSX to achieve scalability and strengthen their security posture. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of private cloud architecture!

In this episode, we spotlight Groupe BPCE, one of France’s largest banking groups, and their transformative journey with VMware Aria Operations. Discover how BPCE-IT modernized their monitoring strategy, reducing incident volume and backlog while enhancing precision. We dive into the creation of their resilient, multi-site VMware Aria Operations environment, built to withstand disaster recovery scenarios. Hear directly from the experts about the challenges they faced and the solutions that led to success. If you’re looking to elevate your infrastructure monitoring, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Keith Tudge from Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust and Director of VCF Product Marketing, Rick Walsworth to discuss how healthcare organizations across Europe are navigating the challenges and opportunities of private cloud modernization. We dive into the technologies and market trends shaping this transformation, and discuss how VMware Cloud Foundation and VMware Private AI Foundation with NVIDIA are driving innovation while meeting critical privacy and security goals. If you’re interested in the future of healthcare IT, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson dive into a special preview of VMware Explore Barcelona. Joined by an expert panel of guests, they discuss exciting sessions, major announcements, and must-see attractions at this year’s event. Whether you’re attending in person or tuning in virtually, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of VMware Explore Barcelona. Don’t miss it!  

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we catch up with William Lam from VMware by Broadcom to recap VMware Explore 2024 in Las Vegas. William breaks down exciting announcements, including advancements in VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF), the introduction of the Private Cloud Modernization Program, and new AI/ML integrations. He explains how VCF 9 simplifies cloud operations through automation, resource optimization, and enhanced support for advanced workloads like AI. We also discuss how businesses can leverage VCF Import to modernize their private cloud environments without the need for a complete overhaul. Links Mentioned Watch the VCF Keynote Session: Adventures in VMware Home Labs Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we are joined by Belu De Arbelaiz and Jatin Jindal from VMware by Broadcom to discuss strategies for building a cyber resilient private cloud. They dive into the growing threat of ransomware and explain how VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) offers a robust defense through built-in security features. Additionally, they highlight VMware Live Recovery, an add-on to VCF that enables rapid recovery from ransomware attacks, helping organizations bounce back quickly with minimal disruption. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how to safeguard your private cloud against modern cyber threats. Links Mentioned Session: 5 New and Exciting Things About VMware Live Recovery Session: New Innovations in Ransomware Detection for VMware Cloud Foundation Session: 3 Cornerstones to Enable a Cyber-Resilient Private Cloud Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

n this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we speak with Saadat Malik, VP and General Manager of VMware by Broadcom, about the rapidly evolving world of Edge Computing. Saadat dives into how the shift towards the edge is transforming industries, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and VMware’s role in enabling secure, scalable, and efficient edge solutions. Whether you're an edge computing veteran or just starting to explore its potential, this conversation highlights the key trends shaping the future of distributed computing. Links Mentioned Session: Gain an Edge with VMware Edge Compute Stack: What's New? What's Next? Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Bhanu Vemula, Director of Product Marketing at VMware by Broadcom's ANS Division, to explore the latest advancements in lateral security with VMware vDefend. Available as an add-on to VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF), vDefend enhances the security of VCF environments by preventing east-west threats, securing internal traffic, and strengthening overall data center protection. Bhanu explains how this solution integrates with VCF to provide an additional layer of defense, ensuring workloads remain secure in today’s dynamic IT environments. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: The Conman of the Digital Era — Ransomware Session: 3 Cornerstones to Enable a Cyber-Resilient Private Cloud Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Brad Tompkins, Executive Director of VMUG, to explore the power of the VMware community and the benefits of the VMUG Advantage program. Brad shares how VMUG serves as a valuable resource for IT professionals, offering networking opportunities, technical education, and career development tools. We also dive into the importance of community in the tech world—how engaging with like-minded peers helps IT professionals grow their skills, stay updated on industry trends, and advance their careers. Links Mentioned  VMware User Group VMUG Session: How to Succeed in Business with Communities and Advocacy Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we speak with Vijay Ramachandran, Head of Products for VCF Core Storage at VMware by Broadcom, about the future of VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) and its evolving role in supporting AI workloads. Vijay breaks down how VCF aggregates core infrastructure components—storage, compute, networking, and management—into a single, cohesive platform. This integration is crucial for efficiently managing and scaling the data-hungry demands of AI applications, empowering organizations to run advanced workloads with ease and flexibility as they navigate the future of IT infrastructure. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Charting the Future of Core VMware Cloud Foundation Infrastructure Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Joe Weiner and Cary Tompkins from SS&C to explore how they’ve automated VMware Site Recovery Manager (SRM) to deliver Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) to their internal customers. By automating SRM workflows, SS&C has been able to offer a self-service model that allows teams to manage disaster recovery without constant support intervention. This approach not only improves operational efficiency but also ensures faster, more reliable recovery processes, reducing downtime and simplifying the overall disaster recovery experience. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Designing and Implementing Disaster Recovery and Ransomware Recovery for VMware Cloud Foundation Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Paul Lembo, CTO at VMware by Broadcom, to discuss how bringing all internal product teams under one organization has strengthened VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF). By aligning the teams on common goals, VCF has evolved into a more cohesive platform, enhancing integration, streamlining updates, and improving overall stability. Paul also shares insights from his daily conversations with customers, who often ask how changes since the acquisition will impact VMware’s product offerings. Tune in to hear how this new approach is driving innovation and delivering a more reliable cloud platform. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: 3 Transformations for the Smarter Way to Cloud Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we chat with Glenn Sizemore from VMware by Broadcom about the VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) Import feature. VCF Import simplifies the process of bringing existing infrastructure under VCF management, enabling faster adoption and reducing the complexity of migrating to a cloud-first model. We explore how it streamlines deployment, improves operational efficiency, and provides seamless integration with existing tools and resources, ultimately allowing organizations to accelerate their digital transformation with minimal disruption. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Deep Dive: Methods and Best Practices for Migrating to VCF Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we talk with Prashanth Gandhi, Head of Products for the ANS division at VMware by Broadcom, about the AVI Load Balancer. Prashanth shares how AVI simplifies application delivery by offering advanced load balancing, automation, and analytics. With its software-defined architecture, AVI provides real-time insights, elastic scaling, and simplified management, enabling organizations to optimize performance and ensure high availability for their applications across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Tune in to discover how AVI is revolutionizing load balancing with its modern, flexible approach. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Deploying Avi Load Balancer Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Victoria Gimma, Principal Cloud Architect at VMware by Broadcom, to explore the evolution from the Software-Defined Data Center (SDDC) to VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF). Victoria highlights how VCF provides customers with everything they need to run their own fully integrated cloud environment—complete with automation, lifecycle management, and intrinsic security. By consolidating compute, storage, networking, and security into a unified platform, VCF simplifies cloud operations, allowing organizations to seamlessly deploy, maintain, and scale their infrastructure with ease. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Demystifying DPUs and GPUs on VCF Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Christos Karamanolis, Fellow at VMware by Broadcom, to discuss how VMware Cloud Foundation is accelerating data-driven innovation. Christos dives into the powerful capabilities of VMware’s Data Services Manager (DSM), a tool designed to simplify database lifecycle management. DSM automates tasks such as provisioning, scaling, patching, and backup across a wide range of databases, making it easier for organizations to manage complex data environments. Tune in to learn how DSM is helping enterprises streamline their operations, reduce complexity, and fuel innovation with data-driven insights. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Accelerating App Innovation with VMware Cloud Foundation Data Services Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Mark Huppert, Principal Consultant at Computacenter, affectionately known as the 'HomeLab King' due to his impressive and extensive VMware home lab setup. We discuss the evolution of home labs, how they’ve become essential for hands-on learning and testing, and how Mark’s home lab has played a pivotal role in his career progression. Tune in to hear insights on how home labs can sharpen technical skills, accelerate learning, and open doors to new career opportunities in the tech industry. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Adventures in VMware HomeLabs Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.