Information Technology Services is sometimes just a survival game, right? WRONG. We want you to THRIVE in I.T.!
This podcast is specifically for the I.T. Professional who wants more than just technology. They realize that to be a leader, they need more than just the technical. We focus on Four M's - Mindset, Methodology, Mastery, and Mentoring. Those Core Four are absolutely key if you want to earn respect, earn more time at home, and, well, EARN MORE MONEY!
Author, Coach, and Consultant D.J. Eshelman is your guide - helping YOU to be the Hero in the story unfolding around you.
Don't just survive I.T.
You've got to THRIVE I.T.
Tune in - we'll show you how!
Dealing with... Working with... There's a difference when it comes to being in IT and having Project Managers involved.
In this episode, D.J. takes some drive-time to talk unfiltered about some of the good and bad experiences he's had with PMs over the years.
Hey, tickets are currently available for the UNFROZEN LIVE event!
https://l2l.thrive-it.com (https://l2l.thrive-it.com)
You're always welcome to watch the VIDEO version (https://youtu.be/xCsVrj1odCE) and subscribe on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmSoETnpddYRTjwoluHKVrLd4Ra_1wwhj)!
YouTube feeds update FIRST for this podcast so we very much recommend you subscribe there (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmSoETnpddYRTjwoluHKVrLd4Ra_1wwhj) ;-)
16 Aug 2025
Get Out!
Did a seasoned Consulting Architect just tell you to go deliver Door Dash?
Yes.
Yes, he did.
Today we're talking benefits of getting out of the house with a purpose - how the context shift can help with stress, believe it or not.
Resource of the week: https://thrive-it.com/tryvsi (https://thrive-it.com/tryvsi)
Enjoy a deep dive of Just Do THIS and then go grab your copy! https://it.justdothis.net (https://it.justdothis.net)
As always, we'd appreciate your leaving a review on your platform of choice!
9 Aug 2025
Getting Hired in I.T.
Real talk about getting a job.
The reality is that the best time to think about it is when you currently have a job and can start networking. The second-best time is right now.
Resources:
eGInnovations Free Tier: https://thrive-it.com/egfree (https://thrive-it.com/egfree)
Getting Hired via LinkedIn Episode: https://youtu.be/aXY3X8FDuH8 (https://youtu.be/aXY3X8FDuH8)
Learn more about Just Do THIS: https://it.justdothis.net/ (https://it.justdothis.net/)
17 Jul 2025
My First Mistake as an I.T. Team Lead
Not easy to talk about - but here's a first big mistake when I was asked to lead a team for Citrix Consulting... and how I fixed it!
Prefer to watch a video version? https://youtu.be/Cf6GNMnX_t4
Resources:
1) Answer some questions - set your own price on D.J.'s book! https://care.thrive-it.com/do-you-know-your-ideal-it-career-path/
2) Interested in learning about coaching? Let's connect! https://thrive-it.com/MeetDJfor30
3) Get THE GOAL:
--Comic Graphic Novel: https://amzn.to/44PL91s
--Paperback: https://amzn.to/4nRLXvE
--Audible (DJ preferred): https://amzn.to/4eNQFq0
Note - I am an Amazon Affiliate and am compensated when you purchase using my links. It's a great way to support the channel so feel free to fill up your cart to maximize what we earn. You spend the same no matter what. Win+Win!
30 Jan 2025
When Your Contributions Are Being Ignored
Navigating Rejection and Recognition in the IT World: A Personal Journey
In this special 'Coaching in the Car' edition of 'How to Thrive in IT,' D.J (https://djeshelman.com). tackles the emotionally charged topic of dealing with rejection and feeling ignored within the IT industry.
Sharing personal experiences, including his own repeated rejection from the Citrix Technology Professionals Program, the host delves into why contributions often go unnoticed.
He discusses the challenges of getting recognized in a noisy online world and offers strategies for making impactful contributions, such as solving common problems and finding advocates who can tell your story.
The episode also highlights the importance of reviews and feedback in validating one's work and encourages listeners to advocate for others to foster a more supportive professional environment.
Important Links:
Connect with D.J. on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/djeshelman (https://linkedin.com/in/djeshelman)
Resource of the Week: Download D.J.'s Risks and Recommendations Template Worksheet! https://thrive -it.com/risksheet
Leave a Review of Just Do THIS! Goodreads: https://it.justdothis.net/good (https://it.justdothis.net/good)Amazon (even if you bought it directly from me): https://it.justdothis.net/USreview (https://it.justdothis.net/USreview)
Don't have Just Do THIS yet? Here's the first part free: https://thrive-it.com/JDTPC1 (https://thrive-it.com/JDTPC1)
00:00 Introduction: Thriving in IT
00:55 Addressing Emotional Challenges
01:33 Feeling Ignored and Rejected
03:33 Resource of the Week: Risks and Recommendations Spreadsheet
04:59 The Reality of Marketing in IT
07:21 Creating Impactful Content
10:51 Advocacy and Recognition
15:03 Conclusion and Call to Action
(stay tuned for a special song at the end of the episode!)
15 Jan 2025
Escape the Crab Bucket
DJ Eshelman shares seven actionable tips for navigating and surviving toxic IT workplaces, empowering listeners to maintain professional well-being and thrive in challenging environments.
29 Dec 2024
What it Takes to THRIVE in EUC
IT expert D.J. Eshelman shares actionable insights on the essential skills and technologies required to thrive in End User Computing, unlocking success through a deep understanding of Active Directory, hypervisors, and cloud services.
19 Dec 2024
What if we're Still Doing This When We're 50?
D.J. Eshelman discusses how to align IT work with personal fulfillment and purpose, encouraging listeners to rethink their career orientation and thrive at any age.
9 Dec 2024
Surviving v Thriving ep 005
DJ Eshelman shares practical advice on adopting a thriving mindset in IT, emphasizing positive attitude, continuous learning, and adaptability for career success.
23 Nov 2024
Until Further Notice, Celebrate Everything - How to Thrive in IT Ep 004 -
D.J. Eshelman shares his 25+ years of IT experience, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset and celebrating small wins for growth and success in the IT industry.
16 Nov 2024
Empowering Through Mentorship - How to Thrive in IT Ep 003
**Sound off and get a gift from us: https://thrive-it.com/currentsurvey (https://thrive-it.com/currentsurvey)**
In this episode of the 'How to Thrive in I.T. Podcast,' host D.J. discusses the importance of mentorship in the IT career path. He emphasizes that anyone can be a mentor, regardless of their status or recognition in the field.
D.J. outlines the four core tenets of Thrive I.T.—mindset, methodology, mastery, and mentoring, focusing particularly on mentoring.
He explains the unique benefits of mentoring others and shares insights into how mentoring not only helps others grow but also provides personal growth and learning.
The episode includes practical advice on how to start mentoring in your I.T. career!
00:00 Introduction to Mentorship
00:42 Welcome to the Podcast
01:06 Core Tenets of Thrive I.T.
01:17 The Importance of Mentoring
02:11 Defining a Mentor
04:50 Resource of the Week - https://thrive-it.com/techsmith (https://thrive-it.com/techsmith)
06:25 Encouragement and Final Thoughts
11 Nov 2024
How to Thrive in IT ep 002 - An Overcoming Mindset
In this episode of 'How to Thrive in IT,' host DJ Eshelman shares his personal journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a professional in the IT field.
DJ emphasizes the importance of mindset, discussing how to handle both successes and failures, and how adapting and overcoming challenges is key to thriving in the IT industry. He also reflects on his entrepreneurial experiences, the setbacks he faced with various projects, and the lessons learned about resilience and self-improvement.
DJ now offers listeners the opportunity to have a one-on-one conversation to help them advance in their IT careers.
Feeling overwhelmed or lost as an IT Team Leader? I'd like to invest 30 minutes into you! Find a time that works for both of us at https://thrive-it.com/MeetDJfor30
Also - We'd love your feedback and as a reward you can have the hardcover edition of Just Do THIS... at whatever price you decide is fair! Just answer a few questions at https://thrive-it.com/ep2survey and we'll get you started!
00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
00:16 Welcome to How to Thrive in IT
01:06 Core Tenets of Thrive IT
01:36 Mindset and Overcoming Challenges
03:04 Special Offer and Call to Action
05:22 Mindset in the IT Industry
07:58 Personal Journey and Lessons Learned
11:06 Emotional Struggles and Professional Setbacks
20:21 Future Plans and Conclusion
23:56 Final Thoughts and Call for Feedback
8 Nov 2024
Imposter Syndrome - How To Thrive in IT ep 001
Welcome to the show!
We are starting off with some vulnerability, but that's how we'll roll around here. We're talking Imposter Syndrome.
Speaking of talking - if you are wanting to be a more effective Leader in I.T. - I have a gift for you: a 30 minute call to determine your plan of action. We'll identify where you're heading and the keys to get there!
All you have to do is schedule 30 minutes with me at https://thrive-it.com/MeetDJfor30
A transcript will be available at https://thrive-it.com/imposter
Your Resource of the Week is The Goal by Eli Goldratt! We will be doing a special study soon on this podcast so make sure to grab it and read before we get started!
THE GOAL Audio: https://amzn.to/4fkrElq Paperback: https://amzn.to/3YEKGxp
THE GOAL Graphic Novel: https://amzn.to/3YmqL4Z
FINALLY - We will only be able to grow if people just like you SHARE. If this was something helpful to you... or even if not... SHARE this podcast with someone today!
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
53,706
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 38 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
33
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
32
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