The PowerShell Podcast Beginnings, Blue Bars, and the Valley of Despair with Steven Judd
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In this episode, host Andrew Pla welcomes back Steven Judd, Microsoft MVP, teacher, and longtime community contributor. Together, they dive into the theme of _beginnings, _from starting careers in IT, to first encounters with PowerShell, and the importance of resilience while navigating the “valley of despair” in learning. Steven shares his journey from music and business studies into technology, where curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to read the manuals shaped his career.
The conversation also explores how community, conferences, and friendships have been essential to Steven’s growth. From humorous “please clap” moments at Nano Conf to building lasting connections, Steven highlights the power of showing up authentically, persevering through challenges, and helping others along the way.Key Takeaways
The Power of the Basics: Learning commands like Get-Command, Get-Help, and Get-Member (“the tripod”) forms the foundation of a strong PowerShell journey.
Resilience in Learning: Navigating the “valley of despair” in tough topics like PowerShell, certificates, or regex is where growth happens. Persistence pays off.
Community is Everything: From user groups to conferences, surrounding yourself with peers and mentors accelerates growth and helps combat imposter syndrome.
Guest Bio
Steven Judd is a Microsoft MVP, educator, and veteran PowerShell enthusiast who has been teaching and sharing knowledge in the community for many years. With a background that spans business, music, and IT, Steven brings a unique perspective on learning, resilience, and humor. Known for his approachable teaching style and dad jokes, Steven has helped countless professionals embrace automation, improve their skills, and find their place in the PowerShell community.Resource Links
Steven Judd’s Content Hub: https://shortcutyour.life
Steven Judd on YouTube (PowerShell content): YouTube Search
Steven Judd on X/Twitter (@StevenJudd): https://x.com/StevenJudd
Steven Judd’s Merch Store: https://store.stephenjudd.com
PDQ Discord: https://discord.gg/PDQ
Connect with Andrew: https://andrewpla.tech/links
PowerShell Wednesdays (live community sessions): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oesn0HgGxE&list=PL1mL90yFExsix-L0havb8SbZXoYRPol0B
The PowerShell Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yu6RVPwp8KY
The PowerShell Podcast hub: The PowerShell Podcast: https://pdq.com/the-powershell-podcast
About the Authors
Andrew Pla
PowerShell MVP, podcast host, and Community Director of PowerShell Summit
I’m a technical educator and community builder. I’m a Microsoft PowerShell MVP, podcast host, speaker, and Community Director of PowerShell Summit. I also work at PDQ alongside sysadmins and IT pros every day.
Community isn’t just what I do. It’s where I get my energy. I genuinely light up when I see someone land a new job, level up a skill, or show up to their first conference. I love sharing that passion with others.
Every week I host a live podcast and stream on YouTube covering PowerShell, automation, and the humans behind the keyboards.
If you’re on your IT journey and need someone in your corner, you’re in the right place. Find more at andrewpla.tech/links.
Steven Judd
PowerShell MVP, PowerShell Summit OnRamp Coordinator, Dad Joke Writer
I’m a lifelong IT professional, educator, and Microsoft PowerShell MVP. For more than 30 years, I’ve worked across infrastructure, cloud, DevOps, digital security, and enterprise messaging. I’m always looking for ways to make technology work better for people.
I love helping others learn PowerShell and discover the value of automation. I’ve developed PowerShell training, contributed to community books, and spoken at conferences about everything from one-liners and advanced functions to Azure, Linux, security, and building safer automation.
Learning is a lot like running a marathon: it takes a plan, consistent effort, perseverance, and people encouraging you along the way. I enjoy helping IT professionals develop their skills, solve real problems, and move forward in their careers.
When I’m not working with technology, you’ll probably find me running, cycling, mountain biking, playing the cello, or writing and creating dad-joke videos as @AwkwardJudd on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.