Join me in Prague as I share behind-the-scenes insights on the conference program I helped create and details about my upcoming talks on Azure solutions and Power Platform tools. I look forward to meeting you there to discuss these topics, share copies of our new books, and connect with friends and colleagues at the ShareGate booth.

I walk you through my hands-on experience testing Microsoft’s new free SSL certificate feature for Azure Web Apps, a capability I was eager to try after its announcement at Ignite 2019. Following my excitement about avoiding third-party certificate costs, I demonstrate how to provision a test web app using Azure CLI and prepare the necessary DNS settings to secure a custom domain.

Inspired by Cloudflare’s LavaRand system, I share my experience building a makeshift random number generator using a lava lamp, a webcam, and .NET Core. I explore the technical challenges of capturing true randomness from analog chaos and why creating this intentionally fragile setup offered more educational value than standard algorithms.

I share my reflections from Microsoft Ignite 2019, highlighting how networking and hallway conversations provided more value than scheduled sessions for gathering ideas. I also discuss the importance of professional conduct, arguing that treating others with respect and kindness is essential when representing yourself and your community at large events.

I share my preparations for Microsoft Ignite 2019, including two upcoming technical sessions and the release of my new book on Azure Governance. I also discuss the progress of my podcast and my plan to recharge in Dubai before traveling to Orlando for the conference.

Drawing from five years of personal experience, I share how I successfully balanced intense workloads of up to 55 hours a week with a sustainable lifestyle. By leveraging tools like heart rate variability tracking to manage my energy levels, I demonstrate that high productivity is achievable without sacrificing well-being or personal interests.