The Cisco Learning Network

Latest Episodes:

Cracking the CCIE Collaboration Lab Aug 14, 2026

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In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Tanner Swift is joined by CCIE Collaboration Exam Product Manager Kashif Zeeshan, along with Ade Kehinde-Idowu and Charanjeet Singh, also known as CJ, for a focused discussion on preparing for the CCIE Collaboration lab exam. Together, they explore how the CCIE Collaboration exam is evolving, including the addition of AI-focused components, and take a closer look at the design module — where candidates need to think beyond configuration and approach questions from a full solution architecture perspective. Ade shares his personal experience preparing for and passing the updated CCIE Collaboration lab with Webex Calling integration, including practical advice on practice labs, timing, troubleshooting, documentation, and building confidence through repetition. CJ then breaks down a design-focused preparation framework using global dial plan and UCM call routing examples, showing how candidates can connect technical concepts to real customer requirements and business outcomes. The conversation also covers Webex Calling migration, design-module mindset, hands-on preparation, and how AI can support studying — while reinforcing the importance of official documentation, lab practice, and real-world architectural thinking. Subscribe to the Cisco Learning Network Podcast for more conversations about Cisco certifications, emerging technologies, and the future of IT.

Find Yourself in the Future Part 2: AI and the Tech Job Search Aug 07, 2026

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In part two of this Cisco Learning Network Podcast conversation on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the future of work, Beth Oommen, Leader of Cisco Networking Academy Global Marketing, speaks with Matt Berndt, Head of Indeed’s Job Search Academy. Matt shares practical advice for early-career technology professionals navigating the job search in an AI-driven market — including how to communicate technical skills clearly, turn experience into evidence, use AI tools thoughtfully, prepare for interviews, and build professional relationships. The conversation also explores the Cisco Networking Academy and Indeed curated job board, the value of learning communities like the Cisco Learning Network, and why staying current with cybersecurity, AI, and career-readiness skills matters as the job market continues to evolve. Subscribe to the Cisco Learning Network Podcast for more conversations about Cisco certifications, emerging technologies, and the future of IT careers.

Find Yourself in the Future Part 1: Al and Cybersecurity Skills for Careers Jul 21, 2026

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In part one of this two-part conversation, Cisco Networking Academy Global Marketing Leader Beth Oommen speaks with Giuseppe Cinque, Principal Architect with Cisco Networking Academy, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping cybersecurity work and the skills learners need to prepare for the future. Giuseppe discusses Cisco’s work with the AI Workforce Consortium, how generative AI and agentic AI are being used in cybersecurity, and why AI is more likely to transform jobs than simply replace them. He also explains why early-career cybersecurity professionals should focus on building skills in data, coding, prompt engineering, AI literacy, critical thinking, and responsible AI practices. Whether you’re starting your cybersecurity education, preparing for your first technology role, or trying to understand how AI may change the future of work, this episode offers practical guidance on how to stay curious, keep learning, and build the skills needed to work alongside AI.

Evolving the CCNA in the Age of AI May 20, 2026

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The CCNA is evolving to help learners build practical, job-ready networking skills for a world increasingly shaped by AI, automation, security, and cloud-managed architectures. In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Mubasher Nawaz, Cisco Certification Portfolio Manager, to discuss the newly refreshed CCNA certification and what learners can expect when the updated exam launches in February 2027. Together, they explore why Cisco is updating the CCNA, how the certification is shifting toward hands-on, scenario-based learning, and why troubleshooting, automation, AI-enabled network operations, and real-world skills are becoming even more important for early-in-career networking professionals. Whether you’re just beginning your networking journey, actively preparing for the current CCNA, or looking ahead to future certification updates, this episode offers helpful context on where the CCNA is headed and how learners can continue preparing with confidence. CCNA Update Blog: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/blogs/a0DQO00000616W92AI/ccna-announcement-blog CCNA Podcast Thread: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/question/0D5QO00002GdwWx0AJ/allnew-cisco-learning-network-podcast-episodes-coming-your-way-

Cisco Collaboration Certification Updates May 05, 2026

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Major updates are coming to Cisco collaboration certifications in 2026, and learners preparing for CCNP Collaboration and CCIE Collaboration will want to pay close attention. In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Scott Hunt, Product Manager for Learn with Cisco and Training Certifications, to discuss the latest changes to Cisco collaboration certifications, including updates to CLCOR, CLACC, and CLHCT. Together, they break down the shift from a primarily on-prem certification track to a more balanced approach that includes both on-premises and cloud technologies, the introduction of new cloud-focused learning paths, and the addition of a new Webex Contact Center specialist certification. They also discuss what these changes mean for current certification candidates, how hiring managers are viewing these skills, and what learners should focus on as they prepare for the updated exams. Whether you're pursuing CCNP Collaboration, preparing for CCIE Collaboration, or looking to stay current with the future of collaboration technologies, this episode provides the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

What's the Deal with the Cisco AI Technical Practitioner Certification? Apr 01, 2026

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Is AI a "magic wand" for your network, or is it a tool that requires a professional playbook? In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, we cut through the industry noise to explore what it truly means to be an AI expert in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape. Join Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Matt Saunders and Principal Engineer Kareem Iskander as they sit down with Ryan Rose, Director of Product Management for Skills and Certifications at Cisco Learning & Certifications. Together, they break down the "why" and "how" behind Cisco’s latest AI educational offerings. Whether you are a business professional looking to integrate AI into your daily workflows or an IT practitioner aiming to build and secure AI-driven infrastructure, this episode provides the roadmap you need. https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/aitech-exam-topics

What’s Changing for CCNP & CCIE Wireless Feb 21, 2026

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Cisco is bringing renewed focus to wireless certifications — and major updates are coming in March 2026. In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Andrew Richter, Content Engineering and Program Management lead focused on Wireless and Enterprise Networking, to discuss what’s changing across the wireless certification track. Together, they break down the introduction of the new Wireless Core exam, updates to the CCNP Wireless pathway, changes to the CCIE Wireless practical exam, and what these updates mean for current certification holders. They also explore why these changes are happening now, how industry feedback shaped the new direction, and where learners can find study resources to prepare. Whether you’re already working toward a wireless certification or just curious about where Cisco wireless learning is headed, this episode gives you the context and clarity you need to navigate the road ahead.

AI in Enterprise Networking – Top Community Questions Answered Part 2 Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we continue the conversation on how AI is transforming the world of enterprise networking. You’ll hear how Cisco approached internal AI adoption with caution and clarity, including the importance of private LLM instances and avoiding shadow AI practices. The group also explores how education, governance, and secure tools are critical for protecting data and building trust in AI systems. From prompt injection attacks to certification updates, the episode breaks down how Cisco is evolving its learning paths and certification programs (like CCNA, DevNet, and CCDE) to reflect the skills networking professionals need in an AI-driven future. Whether you’re an entry-level learner or a seasoned network engineer, you’ll walk away with actionable guidance—and a clear call to get involved, experiment responsibly, and help shape the next era of enterprise networking.

AI in Enterprise Networking – Top Community Questions Answered Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

In this two-part episode, we explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence in enterprise networking—not just as a buzzword, but as a powerful tool for transformation. Cisco experts: Joe Clarke, Distinguished Engineer; Kareem Iskander, Principal Engineer and Technical Advocacy Lead; and Hank Preston, Distinguished Architect, join host Matt Saunders, Community Manager for the Cisco Learning Network, is joined by three. Together, they dive into how AI is reshaping network automation, operations, and the skills needed to thrive in this new era. The conversation covers foundational definitions of AI, the rise of agentic AI, and practical strategies for network engineers—whether you're writing scripts or not—to leverage AI as a tool for efficiency and insight. AMA with Kareem on the Cisco Learning Network: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/question/0D5Kd0000BkfcuLKQQ/ask-me-anything-ai

What’s the Deal with Agentic AI? Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

What exactly is agentic AI, how is it shaping enterprise networks, and what skills do you need to stay ahead in this new era of automation? Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Matt Saunders and Lead Technical Advocate for Learn with Cisco Kareem Iskander dive into all of these topics as they ask, “What’s the Deal with Agentic AI?" You’ll hear real-world examples, insights from Cisco Live, and learn how agentic AI can help address challenges like configuration drift and network resiliency. Matt and Kareem also explore the human side of AI—why critical thinking, creativity, and accountability are more important than ever. Ask Me Anything open forum featuring all things AI and Agentic AI for Enterprise Networking with Kareem: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/question/0D5Kd0000BkfcuLKQQ/ask-me-anything-ai

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