Analyst Talk - Before You Leap - Invest in Yourself

Episode: 00286 Released on September 29, 2025 Description: In this tenth installment of the Before You Leap series on Analyst Talk with Jason Elder, Jason and Randy explore how analysts can maximize training and certification opportunities. From foundational programs like FIAT to specialized certifications in cyber, financial, and analytic methods, Randy highlights practical strategies for navigating costs, avoiding “certification mills,” and building technical skills like SQL. The conversation also covers conferences, networking, and community engagement reminding analysts that the best career investment is often themselves. Congratulations to Randy Stickley on his election as Director of Training for the IALEIA DC Metro Chapter! His leadership and passion for education are helping analysts everywhere grow their skills and confidence. 🎧 Listen, share, and keep talking! [Note:  Description produced by ChatGPT.] Get to know more about Randy by listening to his episode on Analyst Talk With Jason Elder: https://www.leapodcasts.com/e/atwje-randy-stickley-the-self-promoter/  Name Drops: Public Service Announcements: IACA Elections. Please vote. https://iacanet.memberclicks.net/candidates-25?servId=11337 Related Links:  https://www.ialeia.org/ https://www.ialeia.org/training.php https://www.nw3c.org/UI/CourseCatalog.html https://osintacademy.com/ https://www.coursera.org/learn/sql-for-data-science Rethinking Thought https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ82G1PL/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk https://www.amazon.com/Intelligence-Secrets-Mark-M-Lowenthal/dp/1544325061 Association(s) Mentioned:  Vendor(s) Mentioned:  Contact: randall.c.stickleyii@gmail.com; https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-stickley-36b0a5109/   Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/wijv7fv2583qz2hx/BYL10_transcript.pdf   Podcast Writer:  Podcast Researcher:  Theme Song: Written and Recorded by The Rough & Tumble. Find more of their music at www.theroughandtumble.com. Logo: Designed by Kyle McMullen. Please visit www.moderntype.com for any printable business forms and planners.  Podcast Email: leapodcasts@gmail.com   Podcast Webpage: www.leapodcasts.com   Podcast Twitter: @leapodcasts