Podcasts for system administrators have become essential in the world of IT, which is constantly evolving. As a sysadmin in 2024 there is a huge set of things that you should be aware of. But who has time for hours of training videos or dry textbooks? Podcasts offer a convenient and engaging way to learn new skills, gain industry insights, and stay updated on the latest trends – all while you’re commuting, working out, or even tackling chores.
This blog post curates the top 5 Spotify podcasts specifically designed for system administrators in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these podcasts offer valuable resources to help you excel in your role. We’ve taken the time to curate this list based on recommendations from a vibrant community of system administrators on Reddit. Specifically, we referred to a discussion thread where professionals in the field shared their favorite podcasts for commuting to and from work. Let’s dive in and discover how you can upgrade your IT skills with the power of podcasts!
Contents
Why Listening to Podcasts is Important
In 2024, the importance of podcasts for system administrators has become even more pronounced. With the increasing complexity of systems and the constant emergence of new threats and technologies, podcasts provide timely and relevant insights. They cover a wide range of topics, from the latest cybersecurity threats to best practices in network management, cloud computing, and more.
Podcasts also offer the opportunity to hear from industry experts and thought leaders, providing diverse perspectives and deeper understanding of complex topics. They can expose listeners to real-world case studies, innovative solutions, and emerging trends, all of which can inspire and inform their own practice.
Moreover, podcasts can contribute to continuous learning and professional development. Many offer actionable tips and strategies that sysadminis can directly apply in their work. They also often delve into broader topics such as IT strategy and leadership, helping system administrators to grow not just technically, but also professionally.
Top 5 Podcasts for System Administrators to Listen in 2024
Daily Tech News Show
This podcast caters to a broad IT audience, including system administrators, but may be especially useful for those who want to stay updated on general tech news and its potential impact on their work.
Hosts
The show is co-hosted by tech journalists Tom Merritt, known as a veteran technology journalist, writer, and broadcaster, and Sarah Lane, known as a seasoned tech journalist with experience in TV (Attack of the Show) and online media (TechCrunch, TWiT).
Content
Daily Tech News Show offers a daily dose of tech news, analyzed and discussed in a fun and informative way within a 30-minute format. Episodes feature regular contributors and guests, providing diverse perspectives on the latest headlines.
Why system administrators should listen
The Daily Tech News Show is an essential resource for system administrators. In a field where staying updated on the latest tech news is crucial, the podcast provides easily understandable tech news in a concise format. The show, along with other contributors and guests, offers an analysis of the day’s top tech headlines in an engaging manner. Aside from the Daily Tech News Shows, the companion shows further expand on the daily format, providing a deeper understanding of tech. This makes DTNS a valuable tool for sysadmins to stay informed and ahead in their field.
Darknet Diaries
This podcast caters to a broad audience interested in cybersecurity, with content ranging from technical details to true crime-style narratives. It can be a good choice for system administrators who want to delve deeper into the world of hacking and cyber threats.
Hosts
Jack Rhysider, a cybersecurity veteran with experience working in a Security Operations Center (SOC). This background equips him with firsthand knowledge of the threats sysadmins face.
Content
Darknet Diaries presents true stories about hacking, cybercrime, and the dark side of the internet. Episodes are investigative in nature, featuring interviews, audio recordings, and Rhysider’s narration. The podcast maintains a balance between technical details and engaging storytelling, making it accessible to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Why system administrators should listen
By understanding the tactics and motivations of hackers, system administrators can develop stronger defenses and proactively mitigate cyber threats to their networks. The real-life stories and case studies presented in Darknet Diaries offer valuable insights for building a more secure infrastructure.
Let's Talk Azure!
As a sysadmin, familiarity with Microsoft Azure is becoming increasingly essential. Azure offers a cloud-based solution for managing infrastructure, providing scalability, cost-efficiency, and simplified management tools. A highly underrated podcast, “Let’s Talk Azure” brings the hands-on experience of the two technical consultants.
Hosts
Alan Armstrong and Sam Foot bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Alan specializes in Identity and Security automation, while Sam is a .NET developer who deploys PaaS and SaaS solutions on Azure. Their combined expertise provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Azure from different perspectives.
Content
Each episode focuses on a specific topic related to Microsoft Azure, accompanied by a discussion on recent news that the hosts find interesting. The podcast stands out for its no-nonsense approach — there’s no fluff, sales pitches, or product promotions, just two technical experts having an informative and light-hearted chat about Azure.
Why sysadmins should listen
For system administrators, this podcast is a valuable resource for staying updated on Microsoft Azure. The hosts’ focus on practical, hands-on experience with Azure makes the content highly relevant for sysadmins. Listening to this podcast can help sysadmins gain insights into best practices, learn about new features and updates, and understand how other professionals are leveraging Azure in their work.
CyberWire Daily by N2K Networks
The daily cybersecurity news by N2K Networks, which is a leader in cybersecurity with brands like CyberWire and CyberVista. They provide professionals and enterprises with the knowledge to navigate the dynamic world of cybersecurity through situational awareness, continuing education, and professional development programs. Based in Baltimore, a hub for cybersecurity organizations, N2K Networks has a global reach, connecting with experts worldwide to deliver reliable information and continually improve its offerings.
Hosts
Dave Bittner, one of the founding members of CyberWire, wears many hats including that of a security podcast host, innovator, producer, videographer, actor, and entrepreneur. His extensive experience spans across television, journalism, and media production. He is recognized as a trailblazer in the realm of non-linear editing and digital storytelling.
Content
Published each weekday, the podcast features interviews with a wide array of experts from industry, academia, and research organizations from all over the world. The podcast covers a range of topics including situational awareness, continuing education, professional development, and the latest cybersecurity news. It separates the signal from the noise, providing listeners with valuable insights and information to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of cybersecurity.
Why sysadmins should listen
As sysadmins are responsible for the reliable operation of computer systems and networks, staying informed about the latest threats, vulnerabilities, and best practices in cybersecurity is crucial. The podcast provides this information in a concise and accessible format, making it easy for sysadmins to stay updated amidst their busy schedules. Furthermore, the expert insights and interviews featured in the podcast can provide sysadmins with a broader perspective on cybersecurity, helping them to anticipate and mitigate potential security issues in their own systems.
Risky Business
This podcast caters to security professionals, particularly system administrators, with a focus on in-depth industry news and analysis.
Hosts
The hosts of the podcast are Patrick Gray: A veteran cybersecurity journalist with experience writing for major publications. Patrick also has several colleagues in his team—Adam Boileau, Catalin Cimpanu, and Tom Uren—who are all experienced in cybersecurity and system administration.
Content
Risky Business offers a weekly deep dive into the world of cybersecurity news. Episodes feature interviews with industry experts, discussions of current events, and analysis of emerging threats. The podcast maintains a professional and informative tone, aimed at listeners with a strong understanding of cybersecurity concepts.
Why sysadmins should listen
By staying up-to-date on the latest vulnerabilities, attacks, and security trends, sysadmins can proactively harden their systems and stay ahead of potential threats. Risky Business provides in-depth analysis and expert insights that can be directly applied to real-world security challenges.
Other tips to follow as a system administrator
Being a system administrator is a challenging yet rewarding role. Here are some additional tips to help you excel in your position:
Stay Updated: Technology evolves rapidly. Make it a habit to stay informed about the latest trends, tools, and best practices in your field. Attend webinars, read industry blogs. While listening to podcasts is a great way of learning something new, there is also a huge range of YouTube channels for system administrators that can boost your skills.
Prioritize Security: Cybersecurity should be a top priority. Regularly update and patch systems, enforce strong password policies, and educate your team about potential threats and safe online practices.
Automate Tasks: Automation can save you a significant amount of time and reduce the risk of human error. Use scripts and automation tools, like BulkSignature that allow you to automate the process of email signature creation process for all users in your organization.
Document Everything: Good documentation can be a lifesaver when troubleshooting problems or training new team members. Keep clear and updated records of your network configurations, hardware inventory, and procedures.
Develop Soft Skills: Technical skills are crucial, but soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and time management are equally important. These skills can help you collaborate effectively with your team and manage your workload.
Plan for Disaster Recovery: Prepare for potential disasters by having a robust backup and recovery plan in place. Regularly test your backups to ensure you can recover data when needed.
Continuous Learning: The learning never stops in the tech industry. Pursue certifications, take courses, and challenge yourself with new projects to keep your skills sharp and stay ahead of the curve.
Remember, every system is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Always be ready to adapt and find solutions that suit your specific situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, staying informed and continuously learning are key to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Whether it’s through listening to insightful podcasts, engaging with the tech community, or exploring new tools and practices, every effort contributes to your growth and success. Remember, the journey of learning never ends, and each step you take is a step towards becoming a more skilled and knowledgeable professional. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and keep pushing forward. Your dedication and passion for your field will undoubtedly lead to great achievements.