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.
--------
25:04
--------
25:04
What's New with vSphere in VCF 9
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.
--------
40:43
--------
40:43
Modernize Storage with vSAN in VCF 9
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.
--------
47:05
--------
47:05
The Sum is Greater than the Parts
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.
--------
12:37
--------
12:37
VMware Cloud Foundation for ALL
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.
The Virtually Speaking Podcast is a weekly 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 VMware, recently acquired by Broadcom, and within the industry to discuss their respective areas of expertise.
Ireland