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Ever wondered what draws someone into the intricate world of networking? Join us as we sit down with Wendell Odom, a renowned Cisco Press author and networking expert, to hear his inspiring journey from a college co-op program at IBM to becoming a pivotal figure in networking certification. Wendell shares the moment he discovered his passion for networking, the milestones that shaped his career, and the transition from the dynamic corporate environment of the 90s to becoming a self-employed contractor. This episode promises to offer valuable insights for anyone curious about the early steps into a networking career and the fascinating evolution over decades.

Navigating the complexities of teaching and learning in the networking field can be daunting, but Wendell’s experiences provide a clear roadmap. We discuss the challenges of developing lab courseware, balancing meticulous preparation with the unpredictability of teaching, and staying current with rapidly evolving technologies. Wendell opens up about dealing with imposter syndrome and the continuous learning required to remain a reliable resource. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, his reflections on transitioning from traditional textbooks to modern learning tools, and strategies like multimodal learning, will resonate deeply.

Get ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of working with Cisco documentation and writing influential technical books. Wendell brings to light the often-overlooked intricacies of maintaining technical accuracy and the painstaking process of updating content. He also shares his thoughts on the future of networking careers in the age of AI and automation, offering practical advice for young professionals. From his extensive writing career to his exciting plans for a CCNA-focused YouTube channel, Wendell's journey is a goldmine of knowledge and inspiration for anyone passionate about networking. Don't miss the practical advice, personal reflections, and forward-looking insights from this industry veteran.

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Could ADHD be the secret advantage in network engineering? Join us as we uncover this intriguing possibility with our special guest, ADHD life coach Henry Lam. Diagnosed with ADHD at 22, Henry’s journey into the world of coaching provides a deeply personal insight into a condition often misunderstood. We explore how traits like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity manifest uniquely in adults, particularly those in demanding fields like network engineering. Henry offers invaluable strategies that can enhance focus and productivity, benefiting not just those with ADHD but anyone looking to optimize their professional life.

Experience a paradigm shift as we discuss the evolving perspectives on ADHD from the 80s and 90s to the present day. Discover how individuals with ADHD can harness their creativity, innovation, and hyper-focus to excel in both technical fields and the arts. Henry shares practical tips for maintaining and regaining focus, including the importance of physical activities, mental exercises, and positive self-talk. These insights are not just theoretical; they are actionable strategies that you can implement today to boost your productivity and mental well-being.

In our final segment, we dive into coping mechanisms for ADHD and burnout, emphasizing practices like mindfulness, meditation, tai chi, and yoga. Henry explains the critical role of the prefrontal cortex in managing focus and motivation and how structured physical activities can provide much-needed discipline. We also explore the distinctions between life coaching and psychology, helping you understand when to seek professional help. Wrapping up, Henry shares his journey to becoming an ADHD coach, offering guidance on finding the right coach and the significance of a supportive environment. Don’t miss this comprehensive guide to managing ADHD and maintaining mental health in a demanding professional world.

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

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Curious about transitioning from traditional network engineering to cloud technologies? Craig Johnson's career trajectory is a masterclass in adapting to industry changes. We walk through his journey from handling ISDN and early internet complexities to mastering cloud-native tools like Terraform and CloudFormation. Craig highlights the importance of community involvement and practical learning for engineers hesitant to embrace the cloud. We also delve into how feedback loops between customer-facing roles and product developers can drive significant innovations and improvements in technology.

What does the future hold for network engineering? Listen as we explore the impact of AI on the field, the rise of SDN and SD-WAN, and the incorporation of AI into certifications. Craig provides his take on the shift to open environments in 5G networks and the evolving role of LTE and 5G in modern networking. Our discussion also touches on content creation within networking communities and the rewarding journey of pursuing advanced certifications. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration for your career.

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