SolarWinds TechPod

AI Isn't What You Think Sep 16, 2025

Matai Wilson, Senior Director for Product Management at SolarWinds, joins TechPod to explore the evolving landscape of AI technology. The conversation delves into the challenges of building AI technology, the exciting future of AI in IT operations, and the upcoming features and tools SolarWinds is developing to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.

Inside a Cybersecurity War Room Aug 29, 2025

It's CSOC o'clock! In this episode, we dive into the high-stakes world of cyber defense with the manager of cybersecurity operations at a critical infrastructure organization. From ransomware threats and zero-day exploits to the rise of nation-state-backed Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), our guest reveals how security teams manage 24/7 threats, the mindset it takes to thrive in cybersecurity, and why community collaboration is becoming essential in cyber warfare. Whether you're an IT pro, a security hopeful, or just curious about what keeps defenders up at night, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and the real grit of the job.

Brainstorms, Banter, and Bloopers Jul 08, 2025

It’s the 100th episode of SolarWinds TechPod! Join hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring as they celebrate this milestone by going behind the scenes of the podcast. From the infamous "host curse" to their favorite guests, funniest moments, and the magic of production, this candid conversation reveals what it really takes to bring TechPod to life.

Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to the pod, you’ll enjoy hearing about the evolution of the show, the power of community, and what’s coming next.

The Mindset Shift: IT Operations to Security Jun 10, 2025

In this episode, hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor engage with actual rock star Chris Greer, a Security Engineering Manager at SolarWinds, to explore the multifaceted world of cybersecurity. Chris shares his unconventional journey from being a musician to entering the IT field, emphasizing the importance of certifications and the mindset shift required when transitioning from IT operations to security.

Topics covered:

The significance of communication skills in tech roles
The value of networking
The challenges of leadership in the security domain

Community and Collaboration: Lessons from Gaming May 13, 2025

This episode explores the intersection of gaming, particularly MMOs, and its impact on workplace dynamics. Dr. Melika Shirmohammadi and Mostafa Ayoobzadeh join hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring to discuss their motivations for studying the positive aspects of gaming, the skills that can be transferred to professional environments, and the social stigma surrounding gaming as a hobby.

Monitoring, Observability, and Operational Resilience Apr 08, 2025

In this episode of SolarWinds TechPod, hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring explore the key differences between monitoring and observability with guest Jeff Stewart, GVP of Product Management at SolarWinds. Observability goes beyond traditional monitoring, offering AI-driven insights and a holistic view of system health. Like understanding the anatomy of the body, observability reveals how IT systems are interconnected—where one issue can ripple across the entire environment. They discuss how businesses can leverage observability to reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

The Prompt Journey Mar 11, 2025

Engage your meat computers with this philosophical discussion about the transformative impact of generative AI, prompt engineering, and beyond with Doug Bennett, Senior Global Partner Development Manager with Amazon Web Services, and hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor. They delve into the future of generative AI, the potential for innovation, and the changing nature of coding and application development.

The Power of Lifelong Learning Feb 18, 2025

It's never been easier to learn new things, but the options can be overwhelming. TechPod hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor discuss continuing education in the context of IT careers in 2025. They explore the value of interpersonal skills alongside technical skills, the variety of learning resources available, and the significance of mentorship in guiding professional development.

IT Trends and Predictions for 2025 Jan 14, 2025

SolarWinds Evangelists Sascha Giese and Kevin Kline join hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor to discuss Gartner's (and their own) predictions for the technology world in 2025. They explore the potential disruptions AI may bring to various sectors, including healthcare, education, legal professions; the future of AR and VR technologies; and the implications of quantum computing in relation to AI.

Ghosts of Tech Past and Future Dec 10, 2024

Who's ready for wetware? TechPod host Sean Sebring is! From the Zune to Henry Cavill's upper lip, he and co-host Chrystal Taylor talk with Movies and Mainframes host Andy Garibay about what tech we got right, what they can't wait for, and what they'll never speak of again.

Understanding the Role of Security in Business Nov 12, 2024

Security expert Josh Vanhoose joins the podcast to discuss his journey into cybersecurity, the importance of real-world experience, and how to humanize security, with hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring. They explore how to transition into cybersecurity, the significance of entry-level certifications, and the tools available for learning.

IT's Not Easy Being Green Oct 08, 2024

In this episode of SolarWinds TechPod, hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor discuss sustainability in technology with SolarWinds Evangelist Sascha Giese. They explore the energy consumption of data centers, innovative green initiatives, and the importance of circular IT practices. The conversation also touches on the concept of greenwashing and the responsibility of corporations and individuals in reducing their carbon footprints.

Ooo Shiny Shiny — Keeping IT Projects In Check Sep 10, 2024

Mark Roberts, Technical Director of Prosperon Networks, joins hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor to salute the unique challenges of IT project management. From the joys of scope creep to the intricacies of wrangling leadership buy-in, they cover the life of a project from initial discovery process all the way through to project handover.

Transitioning From the Military to a Tech Career Aug 13, 2024

SolarWinds Director of Corporate Communications Dillon Townsel joins hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor to talk about his journey from the military to civilian life. He provides insights on how to navigate the transition process and offers advice for those looking to transition into the technology field.

Don't Make IT Awkward Jul 09, 2024

MOVE! Just kidding. Interpersonal skills can be just as vital to your IT role as technical skills, and there’s far less training. SolarWinds IT Manager Tara Bourke joins hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring to share what she’s learned about conflict resolution, problem-solving, and effective communication with the whole spectrum of end users. Get the strategies you need to avoid becoming a Saturday Night Live skit.

Digital Detoxing Jun 11, 2024

Have you ever tried to scroll up a piece of paper? Have you described a GIF during an actual conversation? To save you from these embarrassing situations, hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring identify some telltale signs that it’s time to Log Off (trumpets blaring) and suggest some new ways to spend your time as you wean from the screen. Touch grass, smell the roses, give your thumbs a much-needed break right after this episode.

Marketing Stigmas Destigmafied! May 14, 2024

Terms like marketing* are often associated with a long list of negative connotations and an image of a cartoon thief sneaking around a corner with a huge bag of cash over his shoulder. Why does the word marketing make people want to delete their banking apps and bury their wallets? How has the perception of this simple concept changed over time? In this episode, SolarWinds Chief Marketing Officer, Brian Goldfarb, explains how marketing drives education, broadens perspectives, and enhances communication when it is used with integrity. Learn how marketing techniques will continuously evolve with the rapid pace of technological advancement and the challenges of predicting the future.

*This description’s marketing verbiage was purely coincidental.

Pardon our Dust: Bringing THWACKcamp to You Apr 09, 2024

Get a peek behind the scenes of THWACKcamp, the free virtual learning event for SolarWinds customers. Hosts Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring talk to THWACKcamp Executive Producer Matt Murray about the extensive preparation, creativity, and deep knowledge that goes into this year’s “love letter” to the THWACK community.

AI Pipeline: Surfing From Concept to Product Reality Mar 12, 2024

In this conversation, hosts Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor talk with Derek Daly, Principal AIOps Product Manager at SolarWinds. He discusses his career journey and the role of AI and machine learning in the company's products. He shares insights into the process of introducing AI and machine learning into product features, the impact of AI on jobs, and the considerations for on-premises vs cloud deployment.

Underdog vs. Top Dog Feb 13, 2024

They say the grass is always greener in another office. Right? In an era of job hopping and layoffs, working for a startup versus an established global company is an evergreen debate. Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring talk pros and cons of both. Tune in to help yourself find your ideal patch of grass.

IT Trends and Predictions for 2024 Jan 09, 2024

I wonder what’s next? Sean Sebring and Chrystal Taylor discuss the tech trends and predictions published by Gartner, Forrester, and VMblog, with Global Tech Evangelist for Observability Sascha Giese. Can they predict the future?

A Very Merry TechPod Dec 12, 2023

The SolarWinds podcast crossover event you’ve all been waiting for: Chrystal Taylor and Sean Sebring talk with Movies & Mainframes host Andy Garibay about the best, weirdest, and most confusing tech gifts you can give your loved ones (or, let’s be honest, yourself) this year.

IT's Event Season Nov 14, 2023

If you think attending a tech industry event is chaotic just imagine trying to organize one. SolarWinds’ Senior Manager of Events Valerie Rivir chats about the ins and outs of trade shows. From the history to the horror stories, she’s seen it all.

Exploring the Summer of Zero-Days Oct 09, 2023

Join host Sean Sebring as he talks to SolarWinds CISO Tim Brown about the 2023 threat landscape after an unprecedented number of cyberattacks. You’re going to want to buckle up, type in the code, scan your retinas, say Beetlejuice three times, and download this episode.

Howdy, Partner! Sep 05, 2023

Going it alone is ok sometimes, but having a partner with skills and experience will make any rodeo better and more efficient. Aldo Masoni, Observability Practice Lead with longtime SolarWinds Partner SHI, joins hosts Sean Sebring and Ashley Adams to explain the “value” in value-added resellers.

The Future of AIOps Aug 08, 2023

Do you ever get the feeling that your computer has gained self-awareness and is trying to take over the world? AIOps expert Aswin Kumar joins hosts Ashley and Sean to talk about AI's impact today, tomorrow, and beyond, as well as some of the ethical questions we will need to answer before it’s too late.

THWACK's 20th Anniversary Spectacular! Jul 11, 2023

THWACK, the SolarWinds community, is 20-years-old and thriving. Two former THWACK MVPs and current SolarWinds employees, Kevin Sparenberg and Michael Kent, join hosts Ashley Adams and Sean Sebring to talk about what makes this community so successful.

Because I’m All About That (Data)base II May 02, 2023

As data infrastructure gets more complex, clarity is more important than ever. Our guest Blythe Morrow talks with hosts Sean Sebring and Ashley Adams about the importance of communication for Data pros, and how to speak so that people will listen.

Because I’m All About That (Data)base.... Apr 04, 2023

Is your database a junk drawer? Is it more like a black hole? If you’re afraid to look in there, join TechPod hosts Ashley Adams and Sean Sebring as they demystify Database with the help of Head Geek and resident Database expert Thomas LaRock. This episode will discuss the challenges database administrators face, and the tools they can use to address them.

TechPod: Are you Observe-Able-IT? Feb 28, 2023

Observability: Industry buzzword, or the next evolution of IT? Our hosts, Chris Bowie and Sean Sebring discuss with SolarWinds Staff Product Marketing Manager Ashley Adams what it means and what it can do for you.

Trends and Predictions—2023 and Beyond Jan 13, 2023

A new year means a new wave of tech trends and predictions, and though some may use a crystal ball or a good guess to make their predictions, our hosts have something better: Head Geeks™ Chrystal Taylor and Sascha Giese. Listen in as the group discusses the latest technology trends and makes projections on everything from tool sprawl to the rise of artificial intelligence. Who will be right? Only time will tell.

A Very Merry TechPod Dec 13, 2022

TechPod gets into the holiday spirIT as hosts Sean Sebring and Chris Bowie are joined by THWACK® Community Manager Kristen Piña-Flores to discuss what's on their IT wishlists for the upcoming year. Listen in as Sean and Chris reflect on their past year in IT, what they’re thankful for, and what their IT Resolutions are for 2023.

It's All Tech to Me: Adjusting to an IT Career Nov 08, 2022

In today's ever-expanding job market, many people find themselves on a career path they never originally planned for - IT. So how do those "non-technical" people become "technical"? Join TechPod hosts Sean and Chris as they dissect their own experiences working in tech, learning how to grapple with unknowns, Observability, and the importance of diversity and unique thought in the tech world.

Hybrid IT...It's Trendy? Oct 13, 2022

The IT Trends report is released by SolarWinds every year with predictions on what will be the most popular trends in IT during the upcoming months. As we enter the second half of 2022, hosts Sean Sebring and Chris Bowie unpack the SolarWinds 2022 IT Trends report with Professor Dr. Sally Eaves. The three discuss findings from the report, getting hybrid IT right, managing complexity, Observability, and even... time travel?

IT Pro Day ’22—The Evolution of the IT Pro Sep 13, 2022

TechPod™ hosts Chris Bowie, Sean Sebring, and special guest Head Geek™ Chrystal Taylor talk about IT Pro Day, the evolution of the IT pro, and how roles have changed in an increasingly distributed and complex IT landscape. Tune in as they share their thoughts on “what makes an IT pro” and why IT pros deserve their day in the sun!

Little Fires; Are They Worth IT? Aug 16, 2022

Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m too busy putting out fires”? What if the only way to get ahead of those fires was to make way for change—to improve the foundations and infrastructure to reduce the fires you had to put out? This episode will discuss the fantastical balancing act of maintaining operational excellence while creating space for growth and improvement.

SysAdmins: Then, Now, Always Jul 29, 2022

When you started as a systems administrator, you might have connected servers, swapped out hard drives, run down spare components, and dragged around a crash cart. Those days might not be completely over, but the chances you physically interact with your systems grow smaller and smaller each day. In an era of virtualization, cloud-first, and software as a service, where does this leave the lowly systems administrator? These questions and more are discussed and debated by Technical Content Manager for the SolarWinds® Community Kevin M. Sparenberg and SolarWinds Manager of Information Technology Noel Barbee on this episode. How you do your job may have changed, but the role in your organization is as important as ever.

How Data Meets Visualization Jun 28, 2022

When we think of alerts, we don’t necessarily think of them as things of beauty—until now. Join THWACK® Community Manager Ben Keen and Technical Content Manager Kevin M. Sparenberg in an energetic discussion on taking your data to the next level. Ben and Kevin discuss the importance of making your data appealing to improve the user experience, help make sense of your data, and benefit your end users with a cleaner and prettier experience.

Getting to Know the New THWACK Community Manager May 17, 2022

The SolarWinds community, THWACK.com, has a new community manager. Ben Keen has been an active voice in the community for years as a THWACK MVP and has now decided to join SolarWinds’ efforts to continue to have the greatest community out there. Ben will be joining as a regular voice here on TechPod as well bringing his many years of IT experience and passion for community to our conversations. In this episode, we’ll dive into his experience and hopes for the future of THWACK.

Monitoring for Managers: More Than a Cost Center Apr 19, 2022

SolarWinds own Senior Director of IT, Brad Cline, and Director of IT, Dr. Humberto Amador, join Head Geek Chrystal Taylor to discuss expanding the business’ view of IT as a cost center. Communication, collaboration, and documentation are all key skills used to be more effective and efficient in aligning with business leaders. Colored with stories and tactics from within the SolarWinds IT organization, our guests discuss these factors and share advice on improving relations between the business as a whole and the IT department.

Women in Tech: Owning Your Place at the Table Mar 15, 2022

In this episode of SolarWinds TechPod, Head Geek Chrystal Taylor is joined by Hannah Kohr and Katie Schraeder to discuss the benefits of communication and advocating for yourself to help tackle challenging conversations and grow your career. With differing backgrounds and experiences in tech, Chrystal, Hannah, and Katie aim to bring new perspectives and guidance for navigating the industry as a woman in tech.

THWACKcamp: Celebrating 10 Years of IT Learning Feb 15, 2022

Join SolarWinds Technical Content Manager for Community, Kevin M. Sparenberg, and Head Geek, Chrystal Taylor, as they reminisce on the 10-year history of SolarWinds virtual event, THWACKcamp. Whether you’re curious about the type of content you can expect at this year’s event or simply want to join them on memory lane, this TechPod will answer the question: Why THWACKcamp? Join the SolarWinds community, THWACK, in celebrating 10 years of THWACKcamp – the always free and completely virtual event for IT pros hoping to learn something new.

Monitoring For Managers: Business Alignment – The Bridge to UnITy Feb 08, 2022

While IT handles layered problems and often speaks in acronyms among other technical terms, we’re also challenged to collaborate with other departments who seemingly speak in a different language. How can we bridge the gap and work towards the same organizational goals, unifying our strategies and operations? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Humberto Amador, to discuss his IT journey and experiences, particularly his focus and affinity for uniting teams through strategic IT-business alignment.

SolarWinds Tech Predictions for 2022: Data Governance and Risk Aversion Jan 25, 2022

Join our Head Geeks in Part 2 of our 2022 Tech Predictions TechPod series where they share their thoughts on the rise of Chief Data Officers and data governance principles, risk aversion, and the need for tech pros to fine-tune nontechnical skill sets for career advancement.

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only.

SolarWinds Tech Predictions for 2022: Observability Jan 11, 2022

It's a new year, ripe with new trends and technology. Join our Head Geeks as they dive into their 2022 Tech Predictions, beginning with observability – a term becoming prevalent among tech pros. Listen in as they share how cloud investments; the rise of AI/ML services; and the re-evaluation of tools, technology, and processes are driving the observability conversation.

Monitoring Insights for Database Managers Dec 28, 2021

As part of our ongoing mini-series on Monitoring for Managers, Head Geek and database aficionado Kevin Kline teams up with fellow Head Geek Leon Adato to break down the essential things about databases and database monitoring a manager might need to know.

Figuring IT Out: The People Behind IT Dec 14, 2021

IT pros juggle a lofty list of responsibilities. They’re tasked with navigating new technology, maintaining continuity for hybrid work environments, devising creative solutions, all while ensuring those they support are successful. In our day-to-day interactions, we often see IT pros’ hard, technology skills at play but rarely do we see or know the paths that brought them to where they are now. SolarWinds Head Geeks Chrystal Taylor, Kevin Kline, and Liz Beavers shine a light on the people behind the technology. No matter where you start or how far you’ve come, there’s always an opportunity to grow. Our 2021 IT Pro Day Award winners will join Head Geeks to dive into how they found their footing in IT, monumental experiences, and lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Timestamps:

0:56 - 2021 IT Rookie of the Year: Praharshita Gaur
26:28 - 2021 IT Trailblazer of the Year: Diana Awde
51:56 - 2021 IT Mentor of the Year: David Williams

ITSM For More Than Just IT Dec 07, 2021

When you hear the term service desk, what generally comes to mind? Perhaps it’s to get a password reset, maybe ordering a new laptop, your run-of-the-mill asks for IT. Have you ever considered how the service desk could become a more central resource to the business, providing more than services for IT alone? SolarWinds® Head Geek™ Liz Beavers sits down with a panel of internal service providers from SolarWinds as they discuss their journey implementing an ITSM platform and successfully growing its footprint beyond IT.

The Disappearing DBA: Embracing Automation to Advance Your Career Nov 23, 2021

A good DBA is hard to find. This is because a good DBA wears many hats, often equating to 3 – 4 full time jobs. How can this be achieved or sustained? The secret is automation, and automation is also the reason the DBA is disappearing. In this final episode of our three-part series exploring the disappearing DBA, Head Geeks Thomas LaRock and Kevin Kline along with GitHub Star and Dual Microsoft MVP Chrissy LeMaire offer advice to data professionals looking to advance their careers by embracing automation.

How Military Service Prepares You for a Career in IT Nov 09, 2021

Being in IT as part of the armed services is a different type of work experience than the private sector, with military values, culture, and restrictions blending to create a unique type of IT experience. In this Veteran’s Day episode of SolarWinds® TechPod™, Head Geek™ Leon Adato is joined by Marlys (Marcie) May, VP of Service Delivery at Atlantic Digital; and Greg Fetterhoff, VP and general manager at Monalytic. They explore what it means to work in tech in the various branches of the military, and what advantages and challenges it presents for folks who want to continue their IT career once they transition into civilian IT life.

George Westerman | Building the Culture for Digital Transformation Nov 02, 2021

In this episode of TechPod, George Westerman and Head Geek™ Thomas LaRock discuss digital transformation, how to build the culture necessary for change, and where workplace learning has fallen short. George Westerman is a senior lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of Management and a principal research scientist, J-WEL Workforce Learning. George works at the dynamic intersection of executive leadership and technology strategy.

whurley | Quantum and Beyond Oct 29, 2021

William Hurley (or “whurley” as he prefers to be called) is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and open-source advocate, whose work at Apple, IBM, and in the area of quantum computing is world-renowned. Picking up where we left off in part 1, SolarWinds Head Geek Leon Adato and whurley explore a range of topics – everything from the state of the tech industry in Austin; to career advice for those just starting out (as well as those who’ve been around the NOC a few times); to the things whurley wishes people would ask him. Give it a listen or read the transcript.

whurley | All Things Quantum Oct 20, 2021

William Hurley (or “whurley” as he prefers to be called) is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and open-source advocate, who’s achieved what many geeks only dream of, including critically recognized work at Apple, IBM, and CERN. He’s started and sold businesses; invented, invested, published, advised, and mentored. Currently, he’s best known his thoughts on—and experience with— quantum computing. SolarWinds Head Geek Leon Adato asks about the insights whurley’s gleaned from his work in quantum computing as it applies to everyday IT. But the conversation didn’t stop there. Listen in (or read the transcript) to find out more.

The Disappearing DBA: Career Advice From a Data Janitor Sep 28, 2021

The DBA role is complex. Pitfalls exist everywhere you turn, and it can be difficult to survive and thrive. On this episode of TechPod, we'll help accidental DBAs become a DBA survivors with career advice from SolarWinds Head Geeks Thomas LaRock and Kevin Kline as well as Denny Cherry, CEO and founder, Denny Cherry & Associates. This podcast is provided for informational purposes only. © 2021 SolarWinds Worldwide, LLC. All rights reserved.

Lesley Carhart on Cybersecurity, IT Careers, and Service In and Out of the Military Sep 14, 2021

Lesley Carhart is recognized as one of the leading voices in digital forensics and cybersecurity. But her career began – and is still firmly rooted – with her service in the Guard and Reserves. She devotes a significant amount of time to helping others make the transition into tech, both within the armed services and as part of their transition to civilian life. Leslie sits down with Head Geek™ Leon Adato to discuss her professional and volunteer work and share some of her hard-won advice.

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only.

Tech Career Origin Stories Aug 31, 2021

The tech industry is booming, and there are many opportunities to transition from other career paths – or to change your path within tech. Join Head Geek™ Chrystal Taylor as she chats with tech professionals Ivan Bravo, Paul Guido, Jake Muszynski, and Marc Netterfield as they share their tech origin stories and discuss the challenges and benefits of having an unconventional background. They’ll share advice, anecdotes, and insights gained through their IT journeys and years of experience.

Celebrating SysAdmin Day 2021 Jul 27, 2021

While it may not be circled in red on many people’s calendars, SysAdmin Day holds a special place in the hearts of many IT professionals. Certainly, because everyone likes to be appreciated for what they do, but more so because SysAdmin day is a chance for tech practitioners not only to recognize and celebrate, but to also shine a light on the work we do and help the next generation of technologies see how systems administration is a vibrant, relevant, and important role in every organization. In this TechPod episode, we sit down with Kimberly Deal, Jennifer Aguilar, and Tannia Rodriguez – three sysadmins who’ve taken different paths to their current role – to hear how they got to this point in their career, what being a sysadmin means to them now, and what they see on the journey ahead.

The Disappearing DBA: Nobody Goes to School to Become a Data Janitor Jul 20, 2021

Automation has been a disaster for the traditional database administration (DBA) role. As more systems and processes are automated away with code, the need for DBAs decreases. In time, the role of a DBA may disappear altogether. This ongoing series will examine who DBAs are, what they do, and where they'll go once their job has been replaced by a handful of PowerShell scripts.

This episode will focus on defining the role of a DBA and discuss why they’re disappearing.

Secure by Design | The CISO Perspective Jun 29, 2021

CDW Technology Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer Ruben Chacon, SolarWinds® CISO and VP, Security Tim Brown, and SolarWinds Head Geek™ Thomas LaRock talk about what CISO need to know to face today’s escalating cybersecurity threats – and what it’s like to be in the “hot seat” when challenges inevitably arise.

From Monitoring Engineer to Leadership Jun 22, 2021

Paul Guido has worn several hats during his IT journey. But now he’s made the leap from deep-dive individual contributor to managing teams of the same kind of IT pros he was (and still is). There are lessons in that journey – not just for IT practitioners considering the next step of their career, but also managers who came to the job from a different (and non-technical) direction. We sit down with Paul to find out what insights and advice he has to help managers do a better job of leading their IT teams.

IT Monitoring: Managing Up May 25, 2021

Hang around with IT folks for anything longer than your typical stand-up meeting and you’re likely to hear some variation of “Managers! Am I right?” Snark aside, as folks who design, deploy, and maintain monitoring solutions, we’ve got a choice: we can continue to dismiss and diminish people who don’t know about our discipline; or we can take the time to educate and inform them.

It’s in this spirit we are building spaces—from THWACK forums to conference talks to this podcast—created geared to answering the technical questions managers—those folks who both lead and represent the boots-on-the-ground monitoring engineers—might have.

A Conversation with Robert Metcalfe (Part 2) Apr 27, 2021

What drives technology innovation?

In the second part of our conversation with Dr. Robert Metcalfe, the co-founder of Ethernet and internet pioneer explains the relationship between innovation and freedom/prosperity, the importance of fostering an environment for technology innovation, and why he’d like to be known as more than “the father of Ethernet.”

A Conversation with Robert Metcalfe (Part 1) Apr 27, 2021

Dr. Robert Metcalfe is arguably one of the most influential pioneers of modern technology. In this episode of TechPod, the award-winning engineer relives the critical events that led to the invention of Ethernet and the development of Metcalfe’s Law. He also discusses the difference between invention and innovation, driving adoption of new technology, and the business landscape that helped form the internet as we know it today.

Secure by Design | Securing the Supply Chain Apr 07, 2021

The recent SUNBURST cyberattack reveals new threats to the supply chains fueling today’s businesses. SolarWinds® and FireEye have raised the alarm for leaders everywhere to reexamine their security, to prepare for threats, and to raise the standards of the supply chains on which they rely.

Join this episode of TechPod for a compelling discussion between SolarWinds President and CEO Sudhakar Ramakrishna and FireEye CEO and Board Director Kevin Mandia, hosted by SolarWinds Head Geek™ Thomas LaRock. These leaders will share their unique insight into how organizations around the world should be thinking about securing their supply chains from highly sophisticated and targeted cyberattacks.

Secure by Design | Securing the Software Development Build Environment Mar 24, 2021

The recent SUNBURST cyberattack on the SolarWinds software build environment is a concerning new reality for the software industry, representing the increasingly sophisticated actions by outside nation-states on the supply chains and infrastructure on which we all rely. SolarWinds® is committed to sharing our learnings about this attack broadly given the common development practices in the industry and our belief that transparency and cooperation are our best tools to help prevent and protect against future attacks.

Join us as SolarWinds SVP, Engineering Lee McClendon, KPMG Director of Cyber Security Services Caleb Queern, and Head Geek™ Thomas LaRock discuss how SolarWinds is prioritizing security in its software build environment, and what the entire industry can learn about next-generation software development.

Secure by Design | Helping Our Customers Get Back to Business Mar 09, 2021

Organizations were stopped in their tracks when the cyberattack occurred. When you’re focused on taking the right actions to protect your environment, your users, and your entire enterprise, solid counsel and assistance is critical. How do you get back to business?

Join SolarWinds® President and CEO Sudhakar Ramakrishna, Head Geek™ Thomas LaRock, and our key partners Greg Fetterhoff (Monalytic) and Bill Fitzpatrick (Loop1) as they share stories from their engagements with SolarWinds customers answering the challenge of the cyberattack—and getting back to business. From U.S. governmental agencies, to the Fortune 500, and all around the globe, they’ve helped clarify the confusion and focus on the future.

Sudhakar will share an overview of the Orion® Assistance Program SolarWinds created to:

Help customers get upgraded and updated
Get professional consulting help at no cost to them
Put our customers first

Greg will cover experiences from the federal government and enterprise level customers, and Bill will share stories from commercial customers around the globe. Both will address:

Considerations for companies responding to this cyberattack
What organizations have in common
The timeline to get back up and running

The Case for Upgrading Feb 02, 2021

The relationship IT professionals have with upgrades can sometimes only be described as “fraught.” Reasons range from the cost in terms of time and lost opportunity to “nothing in that update seems very exciting.” Of course, the benefit often exceeds the effort needed. In this episode, Head Geeks® Chrystal Taylor and Leon Adato are joined by SolarWinds® Sales Engineering Manager Mike Driskell to make the case for upgrading regularly.

Secure by Design | Our Plan for a Safer SolarWinds and Customer Community Feb 17, 2021

Companies must change the way they operate to combat increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks across ever-expanding attack surfaces. What we learn from one attack can help us protect against the next. Because the next attack is always on the horizon. What should you do to raise your defenses?

SolarWinds President and CEO Sudhakar Ramakrishna and cybersecurity expert and Krebs Stamos Group Founding Partner Alex Stamos discuss our plan for a safer SolarWinds and customer community – grounded in principles you can follow to secure your enterprise.

Sudhakar addresses the steps SolarWinds is taking to:

Further secure our internal environment
Enhance our product development environment
Ensure the security and integrity of our software

Part of that work is drawing on the experience of cybersecurity experts like Alex – founder of the Stanford Internet Observatory, and recognized security technologist – who led security teams at Facebook and Yahoo through significant security challenges and continues to do so for companies like Zoom and SolarWinds.

Alex details what you can learn from this most recent cyberattack – and others like it – to change how your organization operates.

Learn to audit your cloud trust relationships
Learn to build for code integrity
Learn to centralize your monitoring to accelerate detection and speed response
Learn to document network dependencies to better control access
Learn to enhance permission rules and risk-based authentication

IT Pros: The Next Generation Nov 17, 2020

Last month we celebrated IT Pro Day, a holiday designed to recognize tech pros and the work they do. As everyone was challenged with navigating 2020’s evolving landscape, IT pros kept users and teams afloat. Much like the changes evidenced this year, we also added a new twist to IT Pro Day’s festivities – awards! Beyond the well-deserved nominations and celebrations, we wanted to learn more about the experiences that shaped our participants.

In this TechPod, SolarWinds Head Geek Liz Beavers will be joined by IT Pro Day winner, Meka Egwuekwe, IT Mentor of the Year. Listen as Liz and Meka reflect on the importance of mentorship in the IT community, how he navigated the pandemic, and the lessons he’s carrying into the future.

Cybersecurity in the New Different Oct 13, 2020

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Although this adage holds much truth, it’s important to understand how it applies to the digital transformation we’ve witnessed this year. We’re in what’s truly a new normal. In this episode, SolarWinds Vice President of Security, Tim Brown—joined by Christopher Kissel, research director, Security and Trust Products at IDC—will walk listeners through the new era, what to expect when it comes to digital shifts impacting security, and how to properly address and embrace these changes for success.

IT Pro Day 2020: You Were Built for This Sep 22, 2020

Every year, on the third Tuesday of September, we celebrate IT Pro Day – a day set aside to recognize all tech pros and the work they do. For some obvious reasons, this year we ran a survey to find out how IT folks are holding up. The answers we got back were by turns insightful, funny, and touching.

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, Head Geeks™ Chrystal Taylor, Liz Beavers, and Leon Adato look at what those answers reveal—and share some of their own thoughts about the questions as well.

Back to School in the New Different Sep 08, 2020

For campus IT, “back to school” holds an entirely different meaning for the Fall 2020 semester. On this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod™, Head Geek™ Liz Beavers is joined by Jenny Reeves, operations program manager for a K-12 school in Atlanta. They’ll recount the Spring journey as schools pivoted mid-semester to virtual classrooms, applying lessons learned as many schools currently face moving targets for re-opening and/or virtual learning. Join Liz and Jenny as they help IT leaders in education navigate the new different.

Security Operations and IT Operations—Better Together Aug 25, 2020

Security operations and IT operations have a lot of differences, but more similarities than you may think, especially as their worlds are merging more quickly than ever before. This presentation will delve into research driven by in-depth conversations with professionals from both groups, examining some of the biggest challenges they see separately—and in working together more effectively. Going beyond traditional surveys, the findings will provide deeper insights into what’s needed to overcome these challenges. Supportive quantitative data will also be highlighted.

You’ll hear directly from SolarWinds® Vice President of Security, Tim Brown and IDC Research Director of Security & Trust Products, Christopher Kissel. They’ll take you through the research and leave you with some actionable steps to accelerate the transformation of your IT and security operational collaboration.

Managing Desktop Devices at Scale Jul 21, 2020

What do IT managers and managed service providers (MSPs) have in common? They both manage a sea of desktop devices. Join the SolarWinds MSP™ Head Nerds while they discuss the challenges and successes of deploying, managing and securing the multitude of desktop devices in various environments.

Return to Work: The New Different Jun 23, 2020

For many people, February 2020 marked the point when everything changed: When schools, stores, religious institutions, and businesses began to shutter their physical locations and we all began grappling with ways to turn our homes into multi-purpose office, gym, schoolhouse, and pet centers. But that was then, and the challenge businesses now face is the inverse—people coming back to the office. How are organizations planning to un-ring the work-from-home bell? More to the point, how are IT departments helping their organization craft a successful Return-to-Office (RTO) plan and ensure disruption to both the business and the IT team itself is minimized.

This episode of TechPod is brought to you by the SolarWinds IT Trends Report 2020: The Universal Language of IT. Explore the priority areas tech pros manage in a world where roles have converged, and the reality of how it's affecting skill sets across IT departments and non-technical areas. Visit it-trends.solarwinds.com. This podcast is provided for informational purposes only. © 2020 SolarWinds Worldwide, LLC. All rights reserved.

SolarWinds IT Trends Report Insights With Keith Townsend May 19, 2020

The SolarWinds® IT Trends Report 2020 explores the evolving role of technology in business and the tech pros in charge of driving business performance. This year shows there’s less focus on emerging technologies like AI and edge and more focus on cloud computing, hybrid IT, and security. Tech pros also report increased responsibilities but decreased resources. In this episode of TechPod, Head Geeks™ Chrystal Taylor and Leon Adato are joined by The CTO Advisor himself, Keith Townsend, to explore what this latest survey means to IT professionals and the businesses they help support.

The focus transition from physical infrastructure to cloud based apps and services is expected to continue to increase with a skill focus on APM and security and compliance rising in tandem. In addition, tech pros are expected to develop non-technical skills to operate within cross-functioning teams where business-level communication is critical.

Powering Business Operations Through “Work From Home” Apr 21, 2020

As COVID-19 forces employees out of the office in masses, many IT departments have been tasked with keeping productivity high and entire organizations operational. How are IT leaders preparing, both long-term and short-term? What challenges are popping up in supporting employees as they work from home? And how can the IT service desk smooth the transition and manage the influx of unfamiliar tickets as organizations adjust?

Azunna Anyanwu, IT Director at Aronson LLC, joins Chris McManus to discuss the ways his team prepared to support remote work through the service desk, and some of the unanticipated challenges working from home has presented.

“Cloud Confessions” Uncover Changing APM Realities for Tech Pros Apr 07, 2020

The SolarWinds® Cloud Confessions 2020 survey explores how extensively technology professionals are using APM tools, whether on-premises or for SaaS-based application management, and how they monitor these environments. One of the things the survey revealed this year was the introspection our colleagues in tech are doing about the changing nature of tech work; the relationship of IT to the business; and how our experience should have taught us by now to expect disruption in these moments significant change—no matter how carefully we try to formulate our plans.

Head Geek™ Leon Adato and guest Adam “the Automator” Bertram discuss the survey and changing APM realities for Tech Pros.

Exploring APM “Cloud Confessions” With Adam Bertram Mar 31, 2020

The SolarWinds® Cloud Confessions 2020 survey explores how extensively technology professionals are using APM tools, whether on-premises or for SaaS-based application management, and how they monitor these environments. This year’s survey shows most tech pros are using APM tools in a troubleshooting capacity and not as part of proactive APM strategies to achieve optimization. Head Geek™ Leon Adato and guest Adam “the Automator” Bertram discuss what's holding companies, teams, and individual contributors back from integrating their APM solutions into their environment.

Assessing Risk – The Key to IT Security Feb 18, 2020

When it comes to IT security, it can feel overwhelming. What needs securing and at what level? How do you prioritize? But when considering risk, this is very different conversation. Changing the conversation from security to risk helps shape an informed and balanced approach. Tim Brown discusses how to apply a risk-based model for security success and how to balance convenience with security to avoid slowing productivity or creating obstacles.

IT: The Employee Engagement Department Jan 28, 2020

What is employee engagement and what does it have to do with IT? Andrew Eardley-Day, ITSM system administrator for Betfred and Joey Brown, product manager for SolarWinds® ITSM join episode host Chris McManus to discuss the importance of versatile service desk engagement methods for employees, including how IT can offer omni-channel engagement, ways ITSM can learn from consumer product support, and how IT bears more responsibility than ever for the overall employee experience.

[De]Constructing Cloud With Mike Pfeiffer Dec 17, 2019

On this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, our host Patrick Hubbard™, SolarWinds Head Geek, is joined by Mike Pfeiffer, a twenty-year tech industry veteran who’s worked for some of the largest technology companies in the world, including Microsoft and Amazon Web Services (AWS). We'll help you make sense of cloud and application performance management (APM), starting with which cloud provider is best for your needs, spanning multi-cloud strategies and the rise of custom applications, and ultimately, how tech pros should be managing all this added complexity with APM.

Account Takeover IS Your Problem Oct 29, 2019

Phishing and malware are scary enough, but the number one tactic used by bad actors to get access to and take over accounts is something different: using compromised credentials. Why? Because it’s so easy! Data breaches happen almost constantly, and credentials get leaked. At the same time, people are prone to reuse the same few passwords across all their accounts. These two facts spell trouble, as it’s almost impossible for an IT professional to know if working credentials to their company email or CRM are floating around the dark web. Almost impossible that is, until now.

SolarWinds® TechPod™ episode host Brandon Shopp, VP of product strategy, security, compliance, and tools discusses the threat landscape and what can we do about it, with Chris LaConte, chief strategy officer at SpyCloud.

Part II: Futureproofing. Your Other Full-time job. Sep 17, 2019

Futureproofing. It’s a buzzword you hear a lot these days, but it can mean quite a few things if you’re an IT professional. Forecasting your next round of hardware upgrades? Sure. Migrating to the cloud, adopting the next whatever as a service, building out long-range budgets? Yup. Or maybe your current role now necessitates leveling-up IT skills for an evolving job title? The list goes on. At the end of the day, futureproofing has really become a larger exercise in adaptability and how you as an IT professional, your IT department, and your company navigate the endless change we’re all challenged with in this business.

Join this SolarWinds® TechPod episode host Kevin Sparenberg as he delves into part two of futureproofing with Jez Marsh, Founder of Silverback Systems, Ltd., and Brad Cline, Director of IT for SolarWinds.

Part I: Futureproofing. Your Other Full-Time Job. Sep 13, 2019

Future-proofing. It’s a buzzword you hear a lot these days, but it can mean quite a few things if you’re an IT professional. Forecasting your next round of hardware upgrades? Sure. Migrating to the cloud, adopting the next whatever as a service, building out long-range budgets? Yup. Or maybe your current role now necessitates leveling-up IT skills for an evolving job title? The list goes on. At the end of the day, future-proofing has really become a larger exercise in adaptability and how you as an IT professional, your IT department, and your company navigate the endless change we’re all challenged with in this business.

Join this SolarWinds® TechPod episode host Kevin M. Sparenberg as he delves into all things future-proofing with Jez Marsh, Founder of Silverback Systems, Ltd., and Brad Cline, Director of IT for SolarWinds.

Building a Complete Picture of IT Assets Aug 09, 2019

To maximize the benefits of business technology, IT asset management (ITAM) should have a strong relationship with service delivery. Over the years, ITAM has evolved beyond a spreadsheet of laptops and devices into a discipline of IT that can directly impact the day-to-day experience for employees. Through automated discovery, the IT service desk can leverage asset data to build a CMDB and deliver a better service experience.

SolarWinds® ITSM technical experts Matt Cox (Senior Director, Technical Services) and Tim Lawes (Manager, Solutions Engineering) discuss some of the ways to simplify IT asset management and leverage that data in ITIL practices.

Automated Compliance Jun 28, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod™, Destiny Bertucci and Eric Hodeen discuss SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager and the benefits of automated compliance.

Monitoring as a Strategy Jun 06, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, Tech Talks, Alex Navarro sits down with SolarWinds Head Geek™ Sascha Giese to discuss how network monitoring as a strategy can take any organization to the next level by saving both time and money.

How to Survive an M&A May 09, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, host Alex Navarro discusses how to survive and thrive before, during, and after an acquisition with the organizer in chief of Gestalt IT’s Tech Field Day, Stephen Foskett and SolarWinds Head Geek™, Patrick Hubbard.

Women in Tech, Upskilling, and Cloud Strategy May 02, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, Phoummala Schmitt opens up to host Alex Navarro about the unconventional career path that led her to becoming a Microsoft advocate. Listen in as they discuss taking control of your career path, training courses, and even a little cloud strategy.

Email Security Apr 25, 2019

Email security. Do a Google search and you'll find it's one of the biggest concerns facing businesses today. Join Ashley Bono, SolarWinds® MSP Product Marketing Manager, and SolarWinds Mail Assure product team members Dreas von Donselaar and Mia Thompson as they discuss the evolution and weaponization of email spam...and the tools you can use to keep the bad actors out of your inbox.

Overcoming Security Objections Apr 18, 2019

It’s time for MSPs to have better security conversations with their customers—and SolarWinds® VP of security Tim Brown and SolarWinds MSP senior channel sales specialist Stefanie Hammond know just how you can broach these terse topics. Listen in as they give you the security scoop.

Frankenbackup Apr 11, 2019

Old backup technologies never really die. In fact, they tend to grow, patching on new products and types of media until a company’s backup solution becomes a cobbled together “frankenbackup” (neck bolts not included). So how can tech and IT pros navigate this backup landscape and help their users? Join Carrie Reber, SolarWind®s Backup Senior Product Marketing Manager, and Addie Derr, SolarWinds MSP content strategist, as they slay the backup monster with best practices, strategy, and efficiency.

Security Theater, Shadow IT, and Insider Threats Apr 04, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, host Alex Navarro is joined by two VP’s of product strategy—Mav Turner and Brandon Shopp—to discuss which security issues, solutions, and strategies are trending topics of conversation at this year’s SolarWinds Government Partner Summit and User Group. 

Training for the Future Mar 28, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, host Alex Navarro chats with SolarWinds Head Geek™ Leon Adato and Senior Director of SolarWinds Academy Cal Smith to discuss what skills tech pros can develop now to position themselves, and the organizations they serve, for future success.

Managing People, Not Devices Mar 21, 2019

For managed services providers (MSPs) first came reactive services. Then came device management. And, now, it's time to talk about managing people. Join David Weeks, SolarWinds® MSP Director of Sales, and Chris Reid, Sr. Product Manager for SolarWinds N-central®, as they talk about how to make the switch from devices to people—and why it makes sense for MSPs.

Steps to Proactive Cybersecurity Mar 14, 2019

Ready to implement or expand a successful cybersecurity program for your customers? SolarWinds® VP of security Tim Brown and Senior Channel Sales Specialist Stefanie Hammond discuss the steps you can take.

Security Quickfire Mar 07, 2019

In this episode of SolarWinds® TechPod, host Alex Navarro discusses security threats, the importance of practicing good cyber hygiene, and best practices for managing users and their devices with Mav Turner, Denny LeCompte, and Jim Hansen of SolarWinds.

Dropped Packets with Phoummala Schmitt Feb 28, 2019

Host Alex Navarro visits with Phoummala Schmitt; Microsoft advocate, engineer, messaging and collaboration specialist, and “mom.” Listen in while @ExchangeGoddess has a frank and candid conversation covering origin stories, the IT journey, and what changes she hopes to see in the IT industry.

Dropped Packets with Stephen Foskett Feb 21, 2019

Listen in on a candid conversation with Stephen Foskett, a fixture in the world of enterprise information technology, longtime voice in the storage industry, and organizer in chief of Gestalt IT's Tech Field Day. He divulges some of his best tech-related travel tips, secret passions, and what the future has in store for Tech Field Day with host Alex Navarro.

Automation, End Users, and Industry Trends Feb 14, 2019

Join host Alex Navarro as she visits with Stephen Foskett on the next episode of SolarWinds TechPod, Tech Talks. Foskett discusses his takeaways from Gestalt IT's Tech Field Day Austin event, including behind-the-scenes insight into what it takes to be selected as a Tech Field Day delegate, themes that have emerged from Tech Field Day events, and how end users are shaping the IT industry and influencing marketing trends.

Migrating to the Cloud Feb 07, 2019

It can be a struggle to find the right mix of services for applications and any technology professional with portions of their workloads in someone else’s data center is going to need a game plan. Join Microsoft advocate Phoummala Schmitt and host Alex Navarro as they discuss best practices when migrating to The Cloud.

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