Are you a podcast junkie who is either a mainframer or an aspiring mainframer? Then the Linux Foundation’s Open Mainframe Project is the place for you.
This year, we launched the “Mainframe Connect” podcast as a platform to bring you regular content regarding the mainframe, the people within the mainframe ecosystem, and open source on the mainframe all in one place and we are excited to introduce you to it.

What can you expect from the Mainframe Connect podcast?
Well, let’s start with the beloved “I am a Mainframer” series. Started in 2017 and boasting more than 85 episodes to date, I Am A Mainframer explores the careers of those in the mainframe ecosystem. Each episode in this series is a conversation that highlights the mainframe ecosystem and its related technologies and provides insight into the industry, and advice for those looking to learn more about the technology. Whether they are students, new developers starting their careers, open-source mentees, mentors, seasoned engineers, or C-level executives – the series features anyone who has crossed paths with mainframes and related technology to showcase how there is no one way into this industry. Every episode showcases a unique journey and is a great way to get to know folks within our community.
Next, there is the new and riveting “Mainframe Voices” series. Mainframe Voices was created as a mentorship program project by Rahat Khan, a Student at Starex University and 2024 mentee for the Mainframe Modernization Working Group. Rahat’s goal was to bring together a diverse range of perspectives on mainframe technology and modernization from some of the industry’s most respected voices. Through those conversations, he aimed to highlight the enduring relevance of mainframes and explore their evolving role in today’s technology landscape. He did an amazing job of distilling complex information into accessible content. While putting together the initial 6 episodes (watch them here), Rahat gained a deeper understanding of mainframe technology and grew personally and professionally. Through the process of reaching out to experts, conducting interviews, and distilling complex information into accessible content he learned invaluable lessons in communication, perseverance, the power of storytelling, and that technology is as much about people as it is about innovation. Please join me in welcoming Rahat into his new role as Project Manager, Open Mainframe Project, Mainframe Connect Podcast Producer!
Finally, Mainframe Connect will round out your listening/viewing experience with other content exploring relevant topics with mainframe professionals and offering insights into the industry and technology. If you have an idea or there is something specific you would like to contribute to the lineup, please feel free to reach out. We would love to hear your ideas or to include you in upcoming episodes. Email us at podcast@openmainframeproject.org
Make sure you subscribe to “Mainframe Connect” so that you don’t miss a single episode!
Happy podcasting!