In this milestone 200th episode of The PowerShell Podcast, Frank Lesniak returns to chat with Andrew Pla about automation, community, and what it means to “bet on yourself.” Frank shares his experiences leading cybersecurity and enterprise architecture projects, using PowerShell for AWS security automation, and developing tools to simplify complex data exports. He also discusses the upcoming PowerShell Summit, his work with DuPage Animal Friends, and the value of giving back through mentorship, community involvement, and open source.
 
Key Takeaways:

• PowerShell in the cloud – Frank dives deep into AWS automation and explains how PowerShell can simplify security and configuration management at scale.


• From console to community – After years of speaking and mentoring, Frank emphasizes how collaboration and consistent effort lead to career growth and confidence.


• Giving back through leadership – As VP of DuPage Animal Friends, Frank highlights the power of using your professional skills for good beyond tech.

Guest Bio:

Frank Lesniak is a Sr. Cybersecurity & Enterprise Technology Architect at West Monroe, where he leads a 45-member team focused on Microsoft's M365/Modern Work platform. His team specializes in navigating the technical complexities of corporate M&A, executing at-scale divestitures and integrations centered on Azure, Microsoft 365, Entra ID, Active Directory, and Windows. An active contributor to the tech community, Frank is a published author, open-source contributor, and a frequent speaker at conferences and user groups on topics including PowerShell, artificial intelligence, and offbeat technical talks related to his hobbies. In his local community, he serves as the Vice President of DuPage Animal Friends, a non-profit dedicated to supporting DuPage County's sole open-admission animal shelter.
 
Resource Links:

• Connect with Frank -https://linktr.ee/franklesniak


• Frank Lesniak on X (Twitter) – https://x.com/FrankLesniak


• Frank on LinkedIn – https://linkedin.com/in/flesniak


• Connect with Andrew - https://andrewpla.tech/links


• DuPage Animal Friends – https://dupageanimalfriends.org


• Previous Podcasts with Frank - https://powershellpodcast.podbean.com/?s=Frank%20Lesniak


• PowerShell Wednesdays – YouTube Playlist


• PDQ Discord (PowerShell Scripting Channel) – https://discord.gg/PDQ


• PowerShell Summit OnRamp Scholarship – https://www.powershellsummit.org/on-ramp/


• The PowerShell Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cQvs5s3T1DA