When Katharine Graham took over the Washington Post in 1963, she was a shy socialite who'd never run anything. By retirement, she'd taken down a president, ended the most violent strike in a generation, and built one of the best-performing companies in American history. Graham had no training, no experience, not even confidence. Just a newspaper bleeding money and a government that expected her to fall in line. When her editors brought her stolen classified documents, her lawyers begged her not to publish. They said it would destroy the company. She published them anyway. Nixon came after her, attacking her with the full force of the executive. Then Watergate. For nearly a year she was ridiculed and isolated while pursuing the story that would eventually bring down the president. Graham proved that you can grow into a job that initially seems impossible and no amount of training can substitute for having the right values and the courage to act on them. Approximate timestamps: Subject to variation due to dynamically inserted ads: (02:19) The Making of an Unlikely Heiress (10:15) The Education of a Publisher’s Wife (22:16) Learning to Lead (30:46) Becoming a Media Titan (44:12) Legacy (47:59) Reflections + Lessons This episode is for informational purposes only and is full of practical lessons I learned reading her memoir, Personal History and watching Becoming Katharine Graham. Check out highlights from this book in our repository, and find key lessons from Graham here: https://fs.blog/knowledge-project-podcast/outliers-katharine-graham/ Thanks to ReMarkable for sponsoring this episode. Get your paper tablet at reMarkable.com today Upgrade—If you want to hear my thoughts and reflections at the end of all episodes, join our membership: fs.blog/membership and get your own private feed. Newsletter—The Brain Food newsletter delivers actionable insights and thoughtful ideas every Sunday. It takes 5 minutes to read, and it’s completely free. Learn more and sign up at fs.blog/newsletter Follow me on X at: x.com/ShaneAParrish Check out our website for all stock video and photo credits. Episode photo sourced from: iwmf.org/community/katharine-graham/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…
Code to Cloud is the podcast for builders—founders, engineers, and tech leaders—shipping the future of cloud, faster. From MVP to hyperscale, we dive into what really matters: cloud-native infrastructure, DevSecOps, AI integration, adaptive strategies, and modern app development. Hosted by Kevin Evans, a 25-year tech veteran, Senior Technologist at Microsoft, and fractional CTO at Code to Cloud, each episode delivers tactical conversations with engineering leaders, startup operators, and cloud-native experts who’ve scaled real systems and shipped real value. It’s not theory—we talk about what works in production. Subscribe at codetocloud.io/subscribe and support the show at patreon.com/CodeToCloud.
Code to Cloud is the podcast for builders—founders, engineers, and tech leaders—shipping the future of cloud, faster. From MVP to hyperscale, we dive into what really matters: cloud-native infrastructure, DevSecOps, AI integration, adaptive strategies, and modern app development. Hosted by Kevin Evans, a 25-year tech veteran, Senior Technologist at Microsoft, and fractional CTO at Code to Cloud, each episode delivers tactical conversations with engineering leaders, startup operators, and cloud-native experts who’ve scaled real systems and shipped real value. It’s not theory—we talk about what works in production. Subscribe at codetocloud.io/subscribe and support the show at patreon.com/CodeToCloud.
In this episode, Kevin Evans interviews Bret Fisher , a Docker captain and cloud native ambassador, who shares his extensive journey in the tech industry. Brett discusses his early experiences with computers, his military background, and the evolution of technology over the years. He emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge in tech, particularly in networking and system administration, and explores the impact of AI on the industry. The conversation also touches on the emerging concept of Agentic DevOps and its implications for the future of work in tech. In this conversation, Bret Fisher discusses the transformative impact of AI on DevOps, emphasizing the emergence of AI agents and the Model Context Protocol (MCP) as pivotal developments. He explores the future of AI in infrastructure management, the potential changes in job roles, and the importance of open-source solutions in shaping AI's trajectory. Fisher advocates for a proactive approach to integrating AI into workflows, highlighting the need for adaptability and innovation in the face of evolving technology. Takeaways Brett Fisher has 30 years of experience in IT, focusing on Docker and containers. He emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge in technology. Brett's journey began with a Tandy computer and learning BASIC programming. He highlights the evolution of networking and the internet from the early 90s. AI is changing the landscape of technology and work. Understanding networking is crucial for a successful tech career. Brett encourages building your own PC to understand hardware better. The tech industry has evolved significantly, but foundational skills remain relevant. Agentic DevOps is an emerging concept that combines AI with DevOps practices. Brett believes that practical experience is essential for understanding complex tech issues. AI is revolutionizing DevOps practices. The concept of agents in AI is gaining traction. MCP protocol is essential for AI tool integration. AI's impact on job roles is still unfolding. Agentic DevOps represents a new way of working. Open source will play a crucial role in AI development. AI can enhance productivity but won't replace jobs entirely. Understanding AI's limitations is key for operators. Proactive engagement with AI tools is necessary. The future will see AI as an integral part of workflows.…
In this episode, Kevin Evan s interviews Monica Rajput , a technical consultant and CNCF ambassador, about her journey into technology, her experiences with internships, and her current role in data engineering. Monica shares insights on the importance of security in AI, the use of open source tools, and emerging trends in data science and AI. In this conversation, Monika Rajput discusses the evolution of data engineering tools, the importance of understanding AI capabilities, and her initiatives to empower women in tech. Connect With Us! She emphasizes the need for foundational skills in data engineering, such as SQL and Python, and the significance of community support for women in the tech industry. Monika shares her personal journey and the challenges faced in the job market, advocating for more inclusive spaces for women in tech. Whether you’re a platform engineer, advocate, or just cloud-curious—this episode will inspire you to lean into creativity, collaboration, and curiosity. Ship it. Scale it. 🎧…
In this episode of Code to Cloud , we sit down with the ever-energetic Bart Farrel l—CNCF Ambassador, community builder, and creative technologist with a passion for human connection in cloud-native spaces. Connect With Us We unpack Bart’s fascinating origin story, from his early career in education and media to leading community efforts that power some of the cloud-native ecosystem’s most vibrant conversations. He shares what community leadership really looks like, the power of storytelling in tech, and why culture might be the most underrated pillar of tech. We also dive into: How to find your voice in open-source The biggest opportunities and challenges in cloud-native right now Bart’s top three skills every technologist should master before 2025 A quick-fire round you don’t want to miss 🔥 Whether you’re a platform engineer, advocate, or just cloud-curious—this episode will inspire you to lean into creativity, collaboration, and curiosity. Ship it. Scale it. 🎧…
Code To Cloud: In this conversation, Kevin Evans hosts Ryan Rex , Kim St-Georges , and Blake Hanna from The Collective AI , a consulting firm focused on the human aspect of AI transformation. They discuss the origins of their company, the challenges organizations face in adopting AI, the importance of trust and regulations, and the need for standardization in AI tools. The conversation emphasizes the significance of skilling the workforce and the balance between public and private AI instances. They share insights on successful implementations and the future of AI in organizations.…
In this episode of Code to Cloud , we sit down with legendary engineer David Beale —a name synonymous with early DevOps tooling, deep infrastructure know-how, and a rebellious spirit that refuses to settle for the status quo. Connect With Us We dive into David’s career journey—from the early Jenkins and Chef days to navigating the evolving landscape of Site Reliability Engineering. Along the way, David unpacks what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and what tech pros need to thrive in 2025 and beyond. 🚧 Topics we cover: The David Beale Origin Story: From pipelines to platform thinking DevOps vs. SRE: Roles, skills, and where the lines blur CTRL - ALT - RESIST: Challenging outdated patterns in engineering culture Looking Ahead: David’s top 3 must-have skills for the next wave of tech Quick Fire Round: Fast takes, hot opinions, and a few laughs Whether you’re scaling infra or scaling your career, this one’s packed with perspective, experience, and just the right amount of resistance. Ship it. Scale it. Challenge it.…
In this episode of the Code to Cloud podcast, we’re joined by legendary developer and founder Solomon Hykes , the mind behind Docker and now Dagger . Solomon shares his origin story, the challenges of building a revolutionary platform, and what it was like watching Docker shape the containerization movement. We talk about the “push and pray” days of early CI/CD, how that inspired his next act with Dagger, and why developer experience still matters most. Whether you’re a startup founder, DevOps engineer, or cloud-native builder — this one’s a must-listen.…
In this episode of Code to Cloud , host Kevin Evans is joined by none other than Richard Hooper , a.k.a. The Pixel Robot! 🚀 We dive into Richard’s latest CNCF-nominated project, KubeBuddy — a tool designed to simplify production Kubernetes deployments and make life easier for platform engineers everywhere. Richard also shares insights into KRO( kro.run ), the growing power of Crossplane, and where he sees Kubernetes heading next. 🔧 Topics covered: The story behind KubeBuddy Tips for simplifying Kubernetes in production How KRO and Crossplane are reshaping platform ops Platform Engineering Hub Richard’s top 3 skills for 2025 And of course… the Quick Fire Round 🔥 Whether you’re a Kubernetes beginner or a seasoned platform engineer, this episode is packed with real-world advice, clarity, and a few laughs along the way.…
In this surprise bonus episode, we dive into the heart (and heartbreak) of modern DevOps culture—through the soulful sounds of our AI-generated anthem: Push and Pray. Connect With Us From late-night deployments to the sacred refresh ritual, this episode captures the chaos, comedy, and camaraderie of cloud-native life. You’ll hear: The story behind the Push and Pray anthem (spoiler: we let AI cook) DevOps horror stories from the trenches—because misery loves company Why “just one quick change” is the most dangerous phrase in tech A breakdown of the lyrics (yes, there’s a YAML reference) And a few laughs about what happens after you push and start to pray Whether you’re deploying to prod or just along for the ride, this one’s for you. Ship it. Scale it. Sing it? 🎶…
Connect with us! 🔒 Ctrl + Alt + Secure – Where Cyber Meets the Boardroom In this episode, Kevin Evans and Dom Vogel break down the realities of cybersecurity in today’s world—from the fundamentals to the strategies that help businesses stay ahead. We dive into why cyber has become mainstream for organizations and why now is the time to get on board. But it’s not just about security—it’s about communication, leadership, and brand-building. We explore how to effectively engage with business leaders and stakeholders, how coaching can elevate executives and technical leaders, and how IT departments can establish their brand within an organization. It’s cyber, but not just the technical side—it’s the human side, too. 🎙️ Tune in and level up your approach to security, leadership, and influence.…
In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast, we’re diving into the world of open source with special guest Jorge Castro, a seasoned advocate for open source and community building. 🌟 Jorge's Linkedin We discuss: • How to take your first steps into the open source community and contribute meaningfully. • An introduction to The Linux Foundation and CNCF, and their pivotal roles in shaping the tech landscape. • Jorge’s personal journey with Linux—from his first experience to becoming a passionate open source champion. • Why open source skills are crucial for today’s tech professionals and how they’re shaping careers in 2025. • Three essential skills every tech professional should focus on to stay ahead in the industry. 💡 Key Takeaway: Open source is more than code—it’s a movement that drives innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic world. Want more from Code to Cloud? Visit codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay informed about the latest in tech. Love what you hear? Support us on Patreon to help us grow and gain access to exclusive content, including our Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution fuels the insights we bring to you. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on how open source is shaping the future of tech! 🎙️…
Description: In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast, we’re exploring the future of cybersecurity with Kevin Magee, Director of Cybersecurity Startups at Microsoft. 🚀 Kevin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmagee/ We discuss: • Top cybersecurity threats in 2025 and how AI is reshaping defense strategies. • Cybersecurity startups—where they’re innovating and how Microsoft supports them. • Essential skills for breaking into and thriving in cybersecurity today. 💡 Key Takeaway: The cybersecurity landscape is evolving—stay ahead by understanding the latest threats, innovations, and career paths. Want more from Code to Cloud? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow and gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us bring you more expert insights. Don’t miss this conversation on the next generation of cybersecurity! 🎙️…
Episode Description: In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast, we’re exploring how Azure Arc is redefining adaptive cloud strategies with Cobey Errett from Microsoft. 🚀 Cobey’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cobey-errett-3437152/ We discuss: • How Azure Arc extends Azure’s capabilities to on-premises, edge, and multi-cloud environments. • The role of hybrid and adaptive cloud in modern IT operations. • Practical use cases and real-world lessons from organizations implementing Azure Arc. 💡 Key Takeaway: The cloud isn’t just a destination—it’s a strategy. Azure Arc enables organizations to bring cloud innovation anywhere while maintaining control and flexibility. Want more from Code to Cloud? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow and gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us bring you more expert insights. Don’t miss this conversation on unlocking the full potential of Azure beyond the cloud! 🎙️…
In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast, we’re diving into Day Two Operations—what happens after the initial deployment— with Todd Wilson from Red Hat. 🚀 Todd’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-wilson-bc/ We discuss: • The real challenges of Day Two operations—from scaling to security and troubleshooting. • How automation and observability can keep your cloud environment running smoothly. • Lessons learned from the field and how enterprises can avoid common pitfalls. 💡 Key Takeaway: Successful cloud operations don’t stop at deployment—Day Two is where the real work begins. Want more from Code to Cloud? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow and gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us bring you more expert insights. Don’t miss this deep dive into keeping your cloud operations smooth, efficient, and secure! 🎙️…
In this episode of Code to Cloud, we’re diving deep into Azure Terraform with Mark Tinderholt , an expert in cloud infrastructure as code. We’ll explore best practices for deploying and managing Azure resources using Terraform, real-world use cases, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to optimize your existing workflows, this episode has something for everyone. 🔗 Learn More: • Terraform on Azure – Official Docs • HashiCorp Terraform Registry for Azure • Azure Terraform Community Tune in and let’s terraform the cloud, one module at a time! ☁️💡 Want more from Code to Cloud ? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow and gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us deliver even more insightful content.…
In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast , we’re joined by recruitment experts Erica Woods and Chris Rosbaugh to navigate the exciting yet challenging tech job market of 2025. 🌟 Erica’s LinkedIn Chris’s LinkedIn We discuss: • How to stand out to tech recruiters in today’s competitive landscape using AI. • Top 5 actionable tips for staying ahead in the 2025 job market, including essential skills, networking, and showcasing adaptability. • Quick wins and tools to elevate your job search game and secure your dream role. 💡 Key Takeaway: A proactive, intentional approach is your secret weapon for thriving in a rapidly evolving industry. Want more from Code to Cloud ? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow and gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us deliver even more insightful content. Don’t miss this chance to future-proof your career and master the art of landing your next role in 2025! 🎙️…
In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast, we’re joined by Marino Wijay to explore the art and impact of building strong tech communities, both in person and online. 🌐 Marino's LinkedIn We discuss: •How to foster collaboration within tech communities. •The importance of attending events to boost networking and learning opportunities. •Why getting involved in tech communities can elevate your career and broaden your exposure. Want more from Code to Cloud? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow, or gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us bring you even more incredible content. This is your chance to discover how community can shape your journey in tech—don’t miss it! 🎙️…
In this episode of the Code to Cloud Podcast , we dive into the fascinating world of hybrid cloud with none other than Cloud Native Principal Consultant Michael Levan . 🚀 We discuss: •The resurgence of data centers in the hybrid era—are we truly heading back on-prem? •Lessons learned from real-world data center experiences. •Michael’s top 3 must-have skills for cloud professionals in 2025. Want more from Code to Cloud? Head over to codetocloud.io/subscribe to join our newsletter and stay updated! Love the podcast? Support us on Patreon to help us grow, or gain exclusive access to the Code to Cloud Slack community. Every contribution helps us bring you even more incredible content. Don’t miss this one—it’s time to rethink the future of cloud! 🎙️…
Welcome to Cloud Playbook 2025 ! This special episode features cloud expert and thought leader Ned Bellavance, who joins us to explore how to make 2025 your breakthrough year in tech. 🚀 Ned's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-bellavance/ 2025 has arrived—have you? It’s time to show up, level up, and build with purpose. Whether you’re diving into cloud certifications, crafting your personal brand, or connecting with tech communities, Ned shares insights to help you crush your goals this year. Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode with Ned: 1️⃣ Level Up: Learn why certifications in cloud, security, and AI are game-changers for your career and how to make the most of them. Ned shares his tips for staying motivated and passing those exams. 2️⃣ Build with Purpose: Whether it’s launching a product, designing a strategy, or evolving your personal brand, Ned offers advice on turning ideas into action. 3️⃣ Find Your People: Growth happens in the right company. Ned discusses the power of community and how to surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. 4️⃣ Collaborate and Thrive: The tech industry thrives on collaboration. Ned explains how to engage with communities, attend transformative events (like Code to Cloud Days ), and connect with like-minded professionals. 2025 isn’t about waiting—it’s about doing. Tune in to hear Ned Bellavance’s expert insights, actionable advice, and some great stories to help you seize the year and build what matters most. 💡 Let’s make 2025 the year of execution—together. 💪 Ready to elevate your skills and take your career to the next level? Subscribe to the Code to Cloud newsletter at codetocloud.io/subscribe and support the podcast at patreon.com/CodeToCloud .…