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This episode was recorded February 22, 2024

Ever wondered what lurks behind the blinking lights and tangled cables of network engineering? AJ is joined by mustachioed sidekick Kevin, and together they're peeling back the layers of this tech world with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of wisdom. When the AT&T network wobbled, conspiracy theories abounded, leaving us chuckling at the mayhem while appreciating the unsung heroes: network engineers. Our conversation takes an exhilarating twist with guest Ian from My Minds Madness, who walks us through the inception of his networking-centric community and the unpredictable rollercoaster of content creation and personal branding in the digital age.

Remember the old days of setting up computers and making coffee? We sure do! Our chat takes a nostalgic turn as we recount Ian's stars in IT, including some truly bizarre interview experiences. Picture a data center group problem-solving session that felt more like an escape room challenge than a job interview. These memories pave the way for discussing the importance of seizing opportunities and networking within your organization, which can lead to leaps from service desk roles to specialized teams - a testament to the power of management support and career advancement through proactive skill development.

Lastly, Ian shares his pivot from teaching to the adrenaline rush of cybersecurity, reflecting on the influence educators wield and the tough calls made when further qualifications beckon. We wrap things up by highlighting the thrills and spills of working with Managed Service Providers, and the fulfillment derived from mentoring others through content creation. From offering cheat sheets to those studying for CCNA certifications to the potential of Packet Tracer for budding network engineers, this episode is chock-full of insights for both seasoned techies and newcomers to the field. Don't forget to tune in for an engaging blend of laughs, heartfelt stories, and nuggets of wisdom from the trenches of network engineering.

Links from the Show:
Ian's CCNA Quizzes - https://www.mymindsmadness.com/quiz-pages

More from Ian:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/mymindsmadness
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mymindsmadness/
Web - https://www.mymindsmadness.com/

Find everything AONE right here: https://linktr.ee/artofneteng