Virtually Speaking Podcast

Recorded live at VMware Explore 2025, this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast features hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson in conversation with Paul Turner, VP of Products for VMware Cloud Foundation at Broadcom. Paul unpacks the major announcements from the general session, including how VCF 9 is being adopted by leading enterprises such as Barclays and Walmart. He explains how VCF 9 delivers a modern private cloud platform that supports AI, VM-based, and container-based applications. A key highlight is the inclusion of Private AI as a core service in VCF, enabling organizations to securely run AI workloads without additional cost. Paul details how this service provides: A model manager for enterprise AI models An inferencing service supporting AMD, NVIDIA, and Intel hardware Flexible deployment options, including CPU-based inference The conversation also covers Kubernetes innovations, Database-as-a-Service advancements, and new cyber compliance capabilities. Throughout the discussion, Paul highlights three core themes driving VCF innovation: Accelerated path to production Private AI as a service Advanced cyber compliance Tune in for a first-hand look at the announcements shaping the future of VMware Cloud Foundation 9.

Pete Flecha and John Nicholson kick off our VMware Explore Las Vegas coverage in style, setting the stage for a week of big announcements and conversations. Filmed inside an autonomous car, the backdrop itself reflects the kind of innovation, AI, and advanced infrastructure shaping the future of technology — the same themes driving VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0. In this episode, we break down the highlights of VCF 9.0, including Memory Tiering, vSAN Express Storage Architecture (ESA), Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs), and more — plus how these advancements are helping organizations modernize, secure, and prepare for AI.

Get ready for VMware Explore 2025 in Las Vegas! In this episode of Virtually Speaking, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson are joined by Brad Tompkins, Executive Director of VMUG, to preview what attendees can expect at this year’s event. They cover: The latest technical sessions and free certification opportunities for full pass holders VMUG activities, including their booth (#105), member reception at Wakuta, and exclusive VMUG Advantage discount (15% off with code Explore2025) for home lab access to VCF, vDefend, and Avi Load Balancer Pete’s upcoming session on private cloud repatriation and the Virtually Speaking podcast booth, where they’ll be interviewing experts The power of community connections, customer-to-PM feedback, and the all-important “hallway track” Fun highlights like the party at the Palazzo pool deck featuring the Honey Buckets 🎶 Whether you’re coming for the deep technical content, the networking, or the community, VMware Explore 2025 has something for everyone. We hope to see you there!

This week on the Virtually Speaking Podcast, Pete Flecha and John Nicholson sat down with networking experts Varun Santosh and Thomas Vignon to unpack what’s new with NSX in VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) 9.0. The conversation dives into the evolution of networking in VCF, with a spotlight on Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs)—a game-changing feature that brings public cloud-like networking to private cloud environments. Learn how VPCs simplify network deployment, enable self-service, and provide default isolation between workloads—all manageable directly from vCenter, without requiring deep networking expertise. You’ll also hear about: NSX components now pre-installed on vSphere hosts in VCF 9, streamlining deployment and accelerating time to value Built-in workload mobility (formerly HCX), tightly integrated into the platform Container networking updates with Antrea A preview of what to expect from upcoming NSX sessions at VMware Explore Whether you’re a VI admin, a cloud architect, or just curious about where private cloud networking is headed, this episode breaks it all down in practical, approachable terms.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson are joined by Jatin Purohit and Angel Petrov to explore what’s new with APIs, SDKs, and PowerCLI in VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0. The discussion dives into major innovations designed to simplify automation and integration for VCF users, including: A unified VCF SDK (Python and Java) that consolidates previously separate component SDKs Compatibility fixes that eliminate version mismatches (especially with Java) The introduction of the VI JSON protocol, converting legacy SOAP APIs into a modern, REST-style experience Adoption of OpenAPI 3.0 across ~90% of VCF APIs for greater consistency and ease of use Enhanced PowerCLI modules with auto-generated cmdlets The first-ever API change log included in VCF release notes Better alignment with AI tools like GitHub Copilot for faster development Subscribe for more insights into VMware Cloud Foundation and modern infrastructure automation.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson sit down with Raakhee Mistry from VMware Cloud Foundation and field CTO Mitesh Pancholy to discuss why many organizations are hitting the reset button on their cloud strategies. Drawing from the new Private Cloud Outlook 2025 study—based on insights from 1,800 global IT leaders—the conversation explores a major trend: private cloud is making a comeback, with 53% of respondents prioritizing private cloud investments alongside public cloud. Key drivers behind this shift include: • Rising security and compliance demands • The need for data sovereignty to support AI initiatives • A push for cost predictability • And a significant wave of cloud repatriation, with 69% moving workloads back on-prem Mitesh shares Broadcom’s private cloud journey, highlighting how platform teams, self-service infrastructure, and upskilling initiatives are transforming IT delivery and enabling faster innovation. The takeaway? The future is hybrid. With 92% of organizations embracing a mix of public and private cloud, this reset isn’t about abandoning public cloud—it’s about building a smarter, more balanced strategy.

In this episode of Virtually Speaking, Pete Flecha and John Nicholson are joined by VMware legend Cormac Hogan to unpack everything you need to know about Data Services Manager (DSM). They explore how DSM delivers on-premises database services for platforms like PostgreSQL and MySQL—while solving a big problem for VI admins: database sprawl. Cormac explains how DSM gives vSphere admins control over database infrastructure, simplifies lifecycle management for DBAs, and empowers developers with self-service access—all through a unified platform. The crew also breaks down what’s new in DSM 9 and VCF 9, including multi-tenancy, vSphere namespace integration, and a technical preview of SQL Server support. They share real-world insight into how Broadcom is using DSM to consolidate database services across their organization, and how DSM’s scaling capabilities help meet the demands of modern, dynamic workloads. If you’re curious about what “Database-as-a-Service” really looks like in a VMware Cloud Foundation environment, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Virtually Speaking, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson are joined by Harshad Colte and Feidhlim O’Leary to break down the latest vSphere enhancements in VMware Cloud Foundation 9. They explore how vSphere is evolving to support both traditional VM workloads and modern container-based applications—all while improving operational efficiency, scalability, and security. Highlights include: NVMe memory tiering for higher VM density Dramatically reduced vMotion stun times for GPU-enabled VMs A new vCenter registration model through VCF Operations (replacing Enhanced Linked Mode) Flexible Kubernetes lifecycle management decoupled from vCenter patching Live patching for faster, disruption-free security updates VLCM support for mixed hardware clusters Native VPC integration, TLS 1.3 by default, and smarter certificate handling If you’re looking to understand how vSphere fits into the future of cloud-smart infrastructure, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Pete Flecha and John Nicholson are joined by Pete Koehler to dive into the latest vSAN innovations in VMware Cloud Foundation 9. They explore key updates like global deduplication, improved network traffic separation, vSAN-to-vSAN replication with VMware Live Recovery, and stretch cluster enhancements. From boosting performance and efficiency to simplifying disaster recovery and fleet-wide observability, this conversation highlights how vSAN is evolving to support modern private cloud operations at scale.

In this final episode of the VMware Cloud Foundation 9 series, Paul Lembo, CTO for Americas Strategic at Broadcom, discusses "The Sum is Greater than the Parts", emphasizing how VCF 9's integrated capabilities create more value than individual technological components. Key Highlights: Holistic Cloud Strategy: - Integrated improvements in compute, storage, and networking - Operational agility with built-in governance and cost controls - Flexible approach accommodating different organizational needs AI and Private Cloud Insights: - Critique of hyperscaler AI approaches - Advantages of virtualized GPU environments - VMware's three-tier AI strategy: infrastructure, product capabilities, application framework Customer Success Recommendations: - Leverage VMware's intellectual property - Utilize free enablement resources - Learn from successful customer case studies (e.g., Loomis, Audi) Core Message: The true value of VCF 9 lies not in individual features, but in how these features work together to provide comprehensive, adaptable cloud solutions for enterprises. The episode underscores VMware's commitment to providing flexible, integrated cloud infrastructure that meets diverse organizational needs.

Welcome to the eighth episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VCF 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson explore "VMware Cloud Foundation for ALL" with James LeFort, Director of Americas Solutions Architects at Broadcom. In this episode, James dismantles the perception that VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) is only for large enterprises. He emphasizes that VCF 9 is a versatile platform designed for businesses of all sizes, offering flexible deployment options, simplified management, and the ability for organizations to become their own cloud providers. The key message is "VCF for All" - whether you're a small IT team, a mid-sized business, or a large corporation, there's a VCF solution tailored to your specific needs and infrastructure requirements. Key Highlights: VCF Democratization Strategy: - Breaking the myth that VCF is only for Fortune 50 companies - Platform approach suitable for businesses of all sizes - Flexible deployment options for small to large enterprises Key Use Cases: - Cloud Smart approach vs. traditional Cloud First strategy - Workload repatriation from public to private cloud - Simplified infrastructure management for small IT teams Deployment Flexibility: - Bring Your Own License (BYOL) options - Cloud Service Provider integrations - Managed service capabilities - Support for edge, on-premises, and hybrid deployments Developer and Infrastructure Alignment: - Containers as first-class citizens - Bridging communication between DevOps and infrastructure teams - Standardized platform approach Cost and Operational Benefits: - Reduced patch management complexity - Automated compatibility checks - Operational budget optimization - Free educational resources for VCF expertise Join us as we explore how VMware Cloud Foundation 9 is designed to be accessible and valuable for organizations of all sizes.

Welcome to the seventh episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VCF 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson unpack VMware Cloud Foundation 9 with William Lam, Distinguished Platform Engineer at Broadcom. Key Highlights: Complete re-architecture of the software stack Core Platform Innovations: - Compute: Support for VMs up to 1000 vCPUs and 16TB memory - Memory Tiering: Transparent NVMe memory expansion - vSAN Global Deduplication (30-40% storage efficiency) - First-class Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) constructs in vCenter Unified Management Capabilities: - Global control plane with VCF Operations - Simplified single sign-on across identity providers - Unified patch and upgrade management - Non-disruptive certificate management - Centralized fleet-level operations Automation and Multi-tenancy: - Native multi-tenancy across compute, storage, and networking - Self-service resource allocation - Support for Kubernetes namespaces - Declarative API and automation support Deployment Flexibility: - New VCF Installer supporting Greenfield and Brownfield deployments - Ability to import and convert existing infrastructure Join us as we dive deep into the technical innovations of VMware Cloud Foundation 9 in this comprehensive podcast episode.

Welcome to the sixth episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VCF 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson explore "Momentum Shift: Private AI in the Enterprise" with Chris Wolf, Global Head of AI and Advanced Services. Key Highlights: VMware's explosive momentum in Private AI services Key AI use cases for enterprises: - GPU as a Service with intelligent resource provisioning - Back-office contact center efficiency (10-35% productivity gains) - Enterprise document search (50-60% productivity improvements) - AI-assisted software development and test case automation VCF 9 AI-specific innovations: - Full support for VLLM open-source inference engine - OpenAI compatible API gateway - Token rate limiting to prevent resource overload - Data indexing and retrieval service - AI agent builder - vGPU reservations and intelligent GPU load balancing - Automated AI workload deployment (setup in under an hour) Strategic Partnerships: - Expanded collaboration with Microsoft Azure - Hybrid AI approach (build in cloud, deploy at edge) - Significant cost savings (3-5x cheaper than public cloud alternatives) Join us as we dive into the transformative Private AI capabilities of VMware Cloud Foundation 9 in this exciting podcast series.

Welcome to the fifth episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VCF 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson explore "VCF Automation and Fleet Management" with Chandra Prathuri, Senior Director of Product Management. Key Highlights: Fleet management capabilities inspired by hyperscaler operations Seamless integration with existing vSphere, vSAN, and NSX deployments Automated lifecycle management for software upgrades Simplified identity, password, and certificate management Multi-tenant infrastructure with Kubernetes-native interfaces Self-service capabilities for developers and business units Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) constructs built into the platform Efficient capacity and workload optimization Simplified application deployment using Kubernetes and Terraform Operational visibility and cost management for cloud resources Join us as we unpack the transformative automation and fleet management features of VMware Cloud Foundation 9 in this ongoing podcast series.

Welcome to the fourth episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VCF 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson explore "Building a Cyber Resilient Private Cloud" with Rakesh Radhakrishnan, Senior Director of Product Management for Cloud Storage & Data. Key Highlights: vSAN's evolution as the #1 storage platform for VMware workloads Secondary storage strategies for backup, DR, and cyber recovery Introduction of automated "clean room" recovery for malware attacks VM-centric snapshot and data protection approaches Advanced cyber resilience workflows integrated into VCF Leveraging QLC flash storage for cost-effective secondary storage Native object and file interfaces for modern application needs One-click disaster recovery testing and runbook automation Comprehensive private cloud protection beyond traditional storage solutions Join us as we dive into the cutting-edge cyber resilience capabilities of VMware Cloud Foundation 9 in this exciting podcast series.

Welcome to the third episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VCF 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson dive deep into the core infrastructure innovations of VMware Cloud Foundation 9 with Core Infrastructure Product Lead Vijay Ramachandran. Key Highlights: Advanced memory tiering technology reducing infrastructure costs by 35-40% Confidential Compute with end-to-end data encryption vSAN ESA global deduplication across entire clusters Native snapshot management and replication capabilities Per-VM snapshot retention and disaster recovery options Introduction of Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) in vCenter New NSX networking data path with 3x throughput improvements Enhanced CPU support for next-generation processors Simplified networking isolation and provisioning Join us as we unpack the groundbreaking technical advancements in VCF 9's core infrastructure in this ongoing podcast series.

Welcome to the second episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VMware Cloud Foundation 9 series! In this installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson continue their deep dive into VMware Cloud Foundation 9 with Director of VCF Product Marketing Rick Walsworth. Key Highlights: Simplified deployment as a single, unified platform Enhanced user experience for cloud infrastructure admins and developers Three key business outcomes: modernizing infrastructure, operating like a cloud, and ensuring security Improved configuration drift detection and proactive management Advanced security services, including network detection and response Self-service capabilities for developers Insights into workload repatriation and private cloud advantages Potential for handling sensitive AI and intellectual property workloads Join us as we continue to explore the transformative features and capabilities of VCF 9 in this ongoing podcast series.

Welcome to the first episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast's VMware Cloud Foundation 9 series! In this inaugural installment, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson sit down with Paul Turner, Broadcom’s leader of VCF product management, to kick off an in-depth exploration of VMware Cloud Foundation 9. This series will dive deep into the platform's latest innovations, capabilities, and transformative potential for private cloud computing. Key Highlights: The rise of private cloud and its cost-efficiency compared to public cloud services Sovereign cloud capabilities and regulatory compliance Innovations in GPU as a service Native support for VMs and Kubernetes in a single platform Advances in storage (vSAN) with enhanced performance and resilience Networking improvements with native VPC setup in vCenter VMware's partnerships with hyperscalers and 500+ cloud service providers Join us as we unpack the exciting developments in VCF 9 across multiple episodes.

VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0 is now Generally Available! For the next several days we will be releasing several episodes in our series titled Exploring VMware Cloud Foundation 9. This series takes you behind the scenes with the product experts, engineers, and visionaries driving the VCF 9 transformation. Whether you’re an infrastructure architect, IT leader, or just cloud-curious, these conversations offer real-world insights into how VMware Cloud Foundation 9 is modernizing private cloud infrastructure to support AI, automation, security, and much more. Enjoy!

In this episode of Virtually Speaking, we’re gearing up for Mobile World Congress 2025 with Paul Turner, VP of Products, and Anupama, Telco Lead for Product Marketing at Broadcom. We dive into Broadcom’s bold vision for the Telco Data Center, focusing on how simplification, unification, and automation are transforming network operations. With the theme “Your Telco Data Center. Simplified. Unified. Automated.”, Broadcom is set to showcase innovations that help Telcos accelerate service delivery, reduce costs, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Tune in to get a sneak peek at what’s coming at MWC 2025!

Private clouds are often misunderstood—seen as expensive, inflexible, and unable to scale like public cloud solutions. But are these perceptions accurate? In this episode of Virtually Speaking, cloud strategist David Linthicum joins us to challenge these misconceptions and explore how private cloud infrastructure has evolved. David breaks down why businesses are taking a fresh look at private clouds, from improved scalability and cost efficiency to enhanced security and control. With rising public cloud costs, increasing regulatory demands, and the need for AI-ready infrastructure, private clouds are proving to be a powerful option for modern enterprises. Join us as we uncover the true value of private clouds and how they are shaping the future of IT.

In this episode of Virtually Speaking, Pete and John are joined by Puneet Chawla and Michael McLaughlin from the VMware Cloud Foundation Division at Broadcom to explore the various workload migration paths to VMware Cloud Foundation. They dive into powerful migration tools like HCX, VMware Live Recovery, and the VCF Import Tool, breaking down their capabilities and ideal use cases. Whether you’re looking to streamline migrations, minimize downtime, or optimize your cloud strategy, this discussion provides valuable insights to help you determine the best approach for your environment. Tune in to learn how to make your move to VCF as seamless as possible!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we explore the fascinating origins of IT best practices with Cody Hosterman, Sr. Director of Product Management at Pure Storage. Cody shares insights on how many best practices were born out of real-world challenges—often solving for bugs and limitations that shaped today’s IT norms. We’ll also highlight how VMware Cloud Foundation exemplifies the incorporation of best practices into a comprehensive, full-stack private cloud solution, offering a stable, scalable foundation for modern workloads. Additionally, Cody discusses how Pure Storage is evolving these practices, embedding them into their fully managed service for Azure VMware Solution: Pure Storage Cloud for AVS. Learn how Pure delivers simplicity, performance, and scalability while redefining the best practices for hybrid cloud environments. Tune in to hear the stories behind the standards and how VMware and Pure Storage are shaping the future of IT innovation!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, Pete and John sit down with Kyle Gleed and Broc Yanda from Broadcom to discuss how to prepare your network for VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF). From understanding the essential network prerequisites to best practices for leveraging vDS, LAG, and NSX, they dive into the key steps to ensure a smooth VCF deployment. Whether you’re planning your first VCF deployment or looking to optimize an existing setup, this episode is packed with insights to help you succeed.

In this episode, Alex Mathews and David Cairns from Broadcom’s Value Added OEM Sales team join us to discuss the new agreements with Dell, HPE, and Lenovo under the Broadcom Advantage Program. Learn how these co-engineered partnerships are delivering VMware Cloud Foundation as the premier subscription-based private cloud solution, combining the agility of public cloud with the security and performance of private cloud. Discover how VAO partners create differentiated, turnkey solutions that accelerate digital transformation, streamline management, and provide a seamless, resilient private cloud experience for modern enterprises.

In this episode, we chat with Christian Mohn, Chief Technologist, and Stine Elise Larsen, Senior Datacenter Consultant at Proact IT Norge, about the evolving role of blogging in tech. Is blogging becoming a lost art in the age of video and social media? We explore why blogs are less common today, how new platforms have shifted content creation, and the enduring value of blogging for both readers and authors. Tune in to discover why this classic medium still holds a vital place in the tech community.

Managing storage costs can often feel like navigating in the dark. In this episode, we sit down with Tom Nagelmeyer, vSAN Product Marketing Engineer at Broadcom, to explore how VMware Cloud Foundation, VMware vSAN, and VMware vSAN Max bring transparency and control to storage expenses. Discover the latest tools and strategies to identify, measure, predict, and optimize storage costs, enabling organizations to lower expenses while maximizing efficiency. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cost-effective storage management!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Christian Ferber, Solution Architect for Cloud Management at Broadcom, to explore how FinOps principles can transform financial management in VMware Cloud Foundation environments. Christian shares how organizations can gain deeper visibility into their cloud spending using VMware Cloud Foundation features like cost drivers, reclaim, rate cards, showback, and chargebacks. We discuss practical strategies for visualizing, analyzing, and optimizing cloud costs to ensure efficient resource utilization and financial accountability. Tune in to learn how FinOps in VMware Cloud Foundation can help you take control of your cloud finances and drive greater business value.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, Yoomi Hong and Belu de Arbelaiz from VMware Cloud Foundation Product Marketing at Broadcom join us to explore VMware Live Recovery and the latest announcements from VMware Explore. We delve into game-changing features like vSAN Local Recovery, which accelerates failback from VMware Cloud on AWS by up to 16x, and vSAN Remote Snapshot Replication, which enhances resilience with up to 200 immutable snapshots per VM. Additionally, we discuss the new On-Premises Isolated Recovery Environment (IRE), giving organizations the flexibility to safeguard critical workloads on-premises or in the cloud while ensuring data sovereignty and compliance. Listen in to learn how VMware Live Recovery and these new innovations are redefining resilience for today’s IT environments.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Dave Morera, Technical Marketing Architect, and Arvind Jagannath, Product Management Lead from Broadcom, to explore how VMware by Broadcom is addressing customer challenges like rising costs, underutilized CPUs, and unbalanced memory-CPU ratios. We dive into the exciting tech preview of NVMe-based memory tiering, uncovering its potential to transform performance for workloads like databases and virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). Drawing on VMware’s rich history of memory management expertise, including technologies like vSphere vMotion, Dave and Arvind share insights into the customer value proposition, real-world performance data, and how memory tiering can alleviate critical pain points for IT environments. Don’t miss this in-depth look at a groundbreaking approach to optimizing memory and CPU utilization!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Marc van de Logt, Technical Architect at PQR, to explore the latest advancements in VMware NSX Security. We dive into VMware vDefend, including its integration with NSX Firewalling, NAPP deployment using Avi Loadbalancer, and cutting-edge tools like Security Intelligence, NTA, IDS/IPS, and NDR. Marc also introduces VMware’s Project Cypress and shares insights on how VMware vDefend supports organizations in implementing a robust zero trust architecture. Tune in to learn how these technologies can elevate your security strategy.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we chat with Johan van Amersfoort, Chief Evangelist at ITQ, about their groundbreaking proof-of-concept (POC) service for Private AI. This new offering is designed to help organizations quickly assess the potential of Private AI in their environments, leveraging VMware technology and NVIDIA AI frameworks. Johan shares how the POC service simplifies the journey from exploration to implementation, providing hands-on experience with AI workloads in a secure and scalable way. Discover how ITQ is helping businesses unlock the power of Private AI and accelerate their innovation.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we delve into the world of AI with Justin Murray, Product Marketing Engineer, and Frank Denneman, Chief Technologist for AI at Broadcom. We discuss retrieval augmented generation (RAG), a powerful approach that combines large language models with real-time, trusted data. Learn how RAG pipelines can be architected using Private AI Foundation with NVIDIA, including insights into key components like LLMs, NVIDIA Inference Microservices, and Vector DB. We also explore best practices for GPU sizing and when to use fractional or multiple GPUs for optimal performance. Join us for this fascinating conversation!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Mark Chuang, Head of VCF Product Marketing at Broadcom, to unpack the groundbreaking announcements from VMware Explore Barcelona. Mark delves into updates on VMware Cloud Foundation, including expanded integrations with DPUs, enhancements for AI/ML workloads, and advancements in multi-cloud management. We also explore the latest in vSAN Max, cost-optimization features, and security innovations like lateral protection with vDefend. This episode is packed with insights into how VMware continues to drive innovation for modern IT infrastructures. Don’t miss it!

VMUG is an independent, global, customer-led organization, created to maximize members’ use of VMware and partner solutions through knowledge sharing, training, collaboration, and events. In a new exclusive benefit to VMware User Group (VMUG) members, Broadcom will provide VMUG Advantage subscribers a 50% discount on VMware Certified Professional (VCP) and VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) certification exams. Upon successful completion of a VMware Cloud Foundation certification exam (VCP or VCAP), VMUG Advantage members will have access to a free personal use VMware Cloud Foundation license for up to three years. On this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, VMUG Executive Director Brad Tompkins walks us through these exciting changes for the VMware Community.

In this episode, we talk with Darin Zook, TNZ Product Marketing Engineer, and Keith Lee, TNZ Technical Marketing Architect at Broadcom, about the growing trend of application repatriation from the public cloud. Discover how VMware Cloud Foundation and VMware Tanzu Platform work together to create a powerful private cloud solution that balances cost, security, and governance for both containerized and traditional VM workloads. We also explore how this approach meets the speed and simplicity demands of modern app developers, helping businesses redefine their cloud strategy for success. Tune in for actionable insights into building a future-proof private cloud!

In this episode, we sit down with Guy Bartram, Senior Manager of Product Marketing at Broadcom, to discuss the critical importance of adopting a sovereign cloud strategy in today’s data-driven world. With increasing regulations and heightened concerns around data protection, Guy explains how VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) empowers businesses to meet stringent data sovereignty requirements. Discover how VCF’s locally built, jurisdictionally controlled, and locally operated approach provides unparalleled security, compliance, and flexibility—all while driving innovation. Tune in to learn why a VMware-powered sovereign cloud is the key to a future-proof cloud strategy!

In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Morera from VCF Technical Marketing at Broadcom and Motti Beck from NVIDIA Corporation to explore how data processing units (DPUs) are transforming private cloud infrastructure. Inspired by hyperscaler advancements, DPUs are enabling greater scale and enhanced security for VMware Cloud Foundation environments—without increasing operational complexity. We also take a closer look at the United States Senate Federal Credit Union’s journey, showcasing how they leveraged DPUs and VMware NSX to achieve scalability and strengthen their security posture. Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of private cloud architecture!

In this episode, we spotlight Groupe BPCE, one of France’s largest banking groups, and their transformative journey with VMware Aria Operations. Discover how BPCE-IT modernized their monitoring strategy, reducing incident volume and backlog while enhancing precision. We dive into the creation of their resilient, multi-site VMware Aria Operations environment, built to withstand disaster recovery scenarios. Hear directly from the experts about the challenges they faced and the solutions that led to success. If you’re looking to elevate your infrastructure monitoring, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Keith Tudge from Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust and Director of VCF Product Marketing, Rick Walsworth to discuss how healthcare organizations across Europe are navigating the challenges and opportunities of private cloud modernization. We dive into the technologies and market trends shaping this transformation, and discuss how VMware Cloud Foundation and VMware Private AI Foundation with NVIDIA are driving innovation while meeting critical privacy and security goals. If you’re interested in the future of healthcare IT, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, hosts Pete Flecha and John Nicholson dive into a special preview of VMware Explore Barcelona. Joined by an expert panel of guests, they discuss exciting sessions, major announcements, and must-see attractions at this year’s event. Whether you’re attending in person or tuning in virtually, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of VMware Explore Barcelona. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we catch up with William Lam from VMware by Broadcom to recap VMware Explore 2024 in Las Vegas. William breaks down exciting announcements, including advancements in VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF), the introduction of the Private Cloud Modernization Program, and new AI/ML integrations. He explains how VCF 9 simplifies cloud operations through automation, resource optimization, and enhanced support for advanced workloads like AI. We also discuss how businesses can leverage VCF Import to modernize their private cloud environments without the need for a complete overhaul. Links Mentioned Watch the VCF Keynote Session: Adventures in VMware Home Labs Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we are joined by Belu De Arbelaiz and Jatin Jindal from VMware by Broadcom to discuss strategies for building a cyber resilient private cloud. They dive into the growing threat of ransomware and explain how VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) offers a robust defense through built-in security features. Additionally, they highlight VMware Live Recovery, an add-on to VCF that enables rapid recovery from ransomware attacks, helping organizations bounce back quickly with minimal disruption. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how to safeguard your private cloud against modern cyber threats. Links Mentioned Session: 5 New and Exciting Things About VMware Live Recovery Session: New Innovations in Ransomware Detection for VMware Cloud Foundation Session: 3 Cornerstones to Enable a Cyber-Resilient Private Cloud Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

n this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we speak with Saadat Malik, VP and General Manager of VMware by Broadcom, about the rapidly evolving world of Edge Computing. Saadat dives into how the shift towards the edge is transforming industries, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and VMware’s role in enabling secure, scalable, and efficient edge solutions. Whether you're an edge computing veteran or just starting to explore its potential, this conversation highlights the key trends shaping the future of distributed computing. Links Mentioned Session: Gain an Edge with VMware Edge Compute Stack: What's New? What's Next? Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we sit down with Bhanu Vemula, Director of Product Marketing at VMware by Broadcom's ANS Division, to explore the latest advancements in lateral security with VMware vDefend. Available as an add-on to VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF), vDefend enhances the security of VCF environments by preventing east-west threats, securing internal traffic, and strengthening overall data center protection. Bhanu explains how this solution integrates with VCF to provide an additional layer of defense, ensuring workloads remain secure in today’s dynamic IT environments. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: The Conman of the Digital Era — Ransomware Session: 3 Cornerstones to Enable a Cyber-Resilient Private Cloud Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Brad Tompkins, Executive Director of VMUG, to explore the power of the VMware community and the benefits of the VMUG Advantage program. Brad shares how VMUG serves as a valuable resource for IT professionals, offering networking opportunities, technical education, and career development tools. We also dive into the importance of community in the tech world—how engaging with like-minded peers helps IT professionals grow their skills, stay updated on industry trends, and advance their careers. Links Mentioned VMware User Group VMUG Session: How to Succeed in Business with Communities and Advocacy Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we speak with Vijay Ramachandran, Head of Products for VCF Core Storage at VMware by Broadcom, about the future of VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) and its evolving role in supporting AI workloads. Vijay breaks down how VCF aggregates core infrastructure components—storage, compute, networking, and management—into a single, cohesive platform. This integration is crucial for efficiently managing and scaling the data-hungry demands of AI applications, empowering organizations to run advanced workloads with ease and flexibility as they navigate the future of IT infrastructure. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Charting the Future of Core VMware Cloud Foundation Infrastructure Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Joe Weiner and Cary Tompkins from SS&C to explore how they’ve automated VMware Site Recovery Manager (SRM) to deliver Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) to their internal customers. By automating SRM workflows, SS&C has been able to offer a self-service model that allows teams to manage disaster recovery without constant support intervention. This approach not only improves operational efficiency but also ensures faster, more reliable recovery processes, reducing downtime and simplifying the overall disaster recovery experience. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Designing and Implementing Disaster Recovery and Ransomware Recovery for VMware Cloud Foundation Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we’re joined by Paul Lembo, CTO at VMware by Broadcom, to discuss how bringing all internal product teams under one organization has strengthened VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF). By aligning the teams on common goals, VCF has evolved into a more cohesive platform, enhancing integration, streamlining updates, and improving overall stability. Paul also shares insights from his daily conversations with customers, who often ask how changes since the acquisition will impact VMware’s product offerings. Tune in to hear how this new approach is driving innovation and delivering a more reliable cloud platform. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: 3 Transformations for the Smarter Way to Cloud Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.

In this episode of the Virtually Speaking Podcast, we chat with Glenn Sizemore from VMware by Broadcom about the VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) Import feature. VCF Import simplifies the process of bringing existing infrastructure under VCF management, enabling faster adoption and reducing the complexity of migrating to a cloud-first model. We explore how it streamlines deployment, improves operational efficiency, and provides seamless integration with existing tools and resources, ultimately allowing organizations to accelerate their digital transformation with minimal disruption. Links Mentioned Introducing VMware Cloud Foundation 9 Session: Deep Dive: Methods and Best Practices for Migrating to VCF Playlist: VMware Explore Las Vegas 2024 The Virtually Speaking Podcast The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a technical podcast dedicated to discussing VMware topics related to private and hybrid cloud. Each week Pete Flecha and John Nicholson bring in various subject matter experts from within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise. If you’re new to the Virtually Speaking Podcast check out all episodes on vspeakingpodcast.com and follow on Twitter\X @VirtSpeaking.