Tech Woke

Join us as we demystify the tech landscape, offer guidance on educational pathways, and showcase inspirational stories of individuals who have successfully transitioned into tech careers. We address challenges, celebrate triumphs, and equip you with the knowledge and motivation to take your first steps or advance further in the tech world.

Tech Woke is a technology podcast hosted by Christopher Okpala, with 82 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Christopher Okpala hosts Tech Woke, a technology show with 82 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Tech Woke

  From military To Cybersecurity Subject Matter Expert (SME)

  —1h 14m

  Tech Woke linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/ Book consulting call: https://calendly.com/christopherokpala/1hr-cybersecurity-consultation Timestamps: 00:00 Childhood Ambitions: Army and More 08:06 Pursuing Independence After High School 11:26 Navigating Challenges with Resilience 20:31 "Certifications Over Degrees for Jobs" 23:18 "Sans Institute GI Bill Benefits" 29:17 Army Assists in Certification Acquisition 33:35 Task Management and Incident Response Journey 38:18 Daily Collaborative Communication Routine 44:52 "Cybersecurity Lab Setup Resources" 50:43 Early Hands-On Learning Regret 57:07 Navigating Pressures as a Black Woman 01:02:07 Tech Careers Podcast Launch 01:05:49 Motivational Podcasting Challenges 01:10:34 Aspiring Tech Manager's Vision About this Video: Welcome to another engaging episode of the Tech Woke! In this episode, our dynamic hosts Chris take a break from their usual format to welcome not one, but two remarkable guests, Tiffiny and Jordyn. These cybersecurity specialists are not only seasoned professionals but also the brilliant minds behind the Stats on Stats podcast. Join us as we dive into their fascinating journeys from military careers to cybersecurity experts. Tiffiny and Jordyn share how their experiences in the military shaped their paths in tech and opened doors to new opportunities. They discuss the benefits and challenges of military life, the importance of clearances, and how they transitioned their skills into the private sector. Additionally, this episode sheds light on the unique perspective of being Black women in a predominantly white industry, as they candidly share their experiences and challenges. Discover the inspiration behind their podcast, their goals for the future, and their dedication to creating a platform that inspires and educates others in the tech community. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a cybersecurity professional, or simply curious about the journeys of incredible women in tech, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and inspiration. Tune in and join the Tech Woke movement!

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  Tech Woke

  How to get a Security Clearance for I.T. Jobs 🇺🇸 GovTech 2025

  —50 min

  Tech Woke linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/ Book consulting call: https://calendly.com/christopherokpala/1hr-cybersecurity-consultation Reviews - https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamps: 00:00 Prioritizing Precision, Not Difficulty 06:12 "Graduate Goal: Secure Career Start" 08:06 D.C. Youth Job Opportunities 11:40 Ensuring Quality for Agency Mission 14:36 Agency-Dependent Drug and Polygraph Tests 19:31 Onboarding Clearance Process Duration 22:19 Clearance Criteria: Trustworthiness Essentials 23:31 Annual Free Credit Report Access 27:30 Honesty Crucial for Security Clearance 32:34 Strict Agency Drug Policies 33:53 Federal vs. State Marijuana Laws 37:47 Importance of Transparency and Honesty 40:46 "Prioritize Responsible Living Habits" 43:22 Avoid Sharing Clearance on Social Media 46:37 Resilience and Determination About this Video: Welcome back to another episode of Tech Woke! Today, we’re diving deep into the fascinating and often misunderstood world of government clearances with our guest, Ty, an experienced adjudicator in the federal government space. Joining our host, Chris, Ty will break down the process of obtaining and maintaining a clearance, and reveal what can potentially disqualify someone from securing this vital credential. Ty shares her personal journey, from her modest beginnings, growing up in a tight-knit community, to securing an internship in personnel security and working her way up to an adjudicator. She also offers invaluable insights into the types of clearances and the responsibilities that come with holding one. Whether you're dreaming of a career in government or just curious about the process, this episode is packed with must-know information. So grab your headphones and get ready for an enlightening conversation that could just be the key to unlocking your future career!

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  Tech Woke

  Breaking Into Cybersecurity: Career Roadmaps and Training Insights with Jason Dion

  —58 min

  RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Jason Dion Free Book: https://tldrcybersecurity.com/subscribe Timestamp: 00:00 "Exam Questions: Wording Matters" 04:32 "Roadmap to Becoming a Hacker" 08:01 "Is Pen Testing Right?" 10:14 Simplifying Complex Tech Concepts 15:17 "Mastering NIST Cybersecurity Framework" 18:48 "Practical Certifications vs. Theoretical" 20:42 "Balanced Approach to Exam Prep" 24:02 "Applicant Tracking Systems Explained" 28:06 "CISSP: Key to Job Interviews" 29:39 Military Networking Drives Career Opportunities 32:20 "From IT to Military Engineering" 37:17 "Generational Tech Understanding Gap" 40:15 Age Perception in Consulting Careers 44:35 "AI Adoption and Responsible Use" 46:17 "Adapting to Rapid AI Changes" 51:25 "Building Practical Certifications Independently" 52:49 AI Revolutionizing Skill-Based Hiring 55:54 "Taking a Career Shot" Video Decription: Welcome back to the Tech Woke Podcast. In this episode, host Christopher Okpala sits down with Jason Dion, one of the most trusted cybersecurity educators in the industry, whose training has helped over a million people break into IT and cybersecurity. They break down how beginners with zero tech experience can choose the right certifications, avoid common mistakes, and build real, job-ready skills. Jason also shares practical advice on hands-on learning, navigating today’s cybersecurity job market, and how AI and cloud technologies are reshaping tech careers. Whether you’re transitioning from a non-tech background or looking to future-proof your career, this conversation delivers clear, real-world guidance for breaking into cybersecurity the right way.

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  Tech Woke

  How AI Is Transforming the Federal Government

  —42 min

  Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/ RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Timestamps: 00:00 "Mastering RMF & Cyber Skills" 03:19 Berkeley Political Data Analysis Journey 07:42 General AI vs Generative AI 10:05 Generative AI's Impact on Government 14:32 AI Testing Framework Initiated 17:22 AI Red Teaming for Security 20:57 AI Enhancing Human Efficiency 23:10 "Seven Steps for AI Adoption" 28:36 "AI vs Consultants: Strategic Advantage" 30:36 "GovBench: Faster AI for Government" 35:27 "AI Transparency Over Secrecy" 39:04 "Sharing AI Insights Clearly" 40:16 AI Opportunities in Government Modernization Video Description: In this episode of the Tech Woke Podcast, host Christopher Okpala sits down with Glenn Parham, one of the first generative AI tech leads at the Department of Defense, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the federal government. They dive into the rise of generative AI, its real-world impact on government operations, and what’s holding agencies back from full adoption. Glenn shares his journey from UC Berkeley to founding Pundit Analytics and explains how AI is reshaping everything from process automation to national security. This conversation breaks down the challenges of modernizing government technology, the truth behind ATO processes, and what federal employees and contractors can do to prepare for the next wave of AI-driven innovation. Whether you’re in GovTech, cybersecurity, or just curious about how AI is changing the public sector, this episode offers real insight, honest discussion, and a clear look at the future of technology in government.

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  Tech Woke

  Breaking Into GovTech: Certifications, Clearances, and Career Secrets with ft. @symonebeez ​

  —46 min

  Tech Woke LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-okpala-413565158/ Check out the Compliance Community: https://www.skool.com/compliance-community-7740/about?ref=ec3abb3a3b014ed2a08e060ef406fb98 RMF Academy: https://www.rmfacademy.io/ Merch:https://3c25a2-b9.myshopify.com/?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1 Please Rate the Podcast: https://ratethispodcast.com/techwoke Guest Information: IG: https://www.instagram.com/symonebeez/ Govtech Con: https://www.govtechcon.com/ Timestamps: 1:15 Intro: Who is Simone B? 2:20 Breaking Into GovTech: Where to Start Today 5:10 Maximizing Your Security+ Certification 8:00 Where to Find GovTech Jobs 11:00 The Importance of Security Clearances in GovTech 17:00 Top Certifications & Salary Ranges in GovTech 24:00 Exploring Overseas GovTech Opportunities 28:00 Investing in GovTech: Why It’s the Future 35:00 GovTech Conferences & Networking (GovTech Con) 45:00 Final Takeaways & Career Tips About this video: Welcome back to another episode of "Tech Woke." Today, we’re diving deep into the world of government technology and cybersecurity with none other than Symone Berry (known online as SymoneBeez). Symone is an industry powerhouse who’s helped countless professionals break into the elusive and lucrative govtech space. In this episode, Symone dishes out candid advice on how to land your first IT job with just a Security Plus certification, the real value behind security clearances, and why mission-critical roles are key to job stability even in uncertain times. You’ll also hear insider tips on finding government contracts, the latest on the AI boom and its impact on federal tech jobs, and how moving to hotspots like Huntsville or working overseas could transform your career and finances. Plus, Symone opens up about building her community through GovTechCon, her experiences navigating the often-secretive world of government contracting, and the importance of supporting each other in this ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up in govtech, this episode is packed with actionable strategies, inspiration, and plenty of real talk. Let’s get started!

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