Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast (Real Talk for IT Pros & MSPs)

Wayne Creamer, founder and CEO of Symoda, returns to the IT Business Podcast to discuss the evolution of their customer-centric communication platform for managed service providers (MSPs). With 20 years of experience in the MSP space, Wayne identified communication as a recurring problem among customers, which led to the creation of Symoda. Initially a mobile-based solution, Symoda is expanding to desktop and team platforms like Slack and Teams. The platform integrates with ConnectWise and Autotask, enhancing communication and support within organizations. It offers features such as customizable push notifications, streamlined ticket management, and user onboarding processes. Wayne emphasizes the importance of effective communication in managing customer relationships. Symoda’s push notification feature allows for targeted communication with customers, helping to resolve issues quickly and improve satisfaction. The platform aims to enhance communication at all levels: end-user, MSP contact, and VIP support. The discussion also covers Symoda’s progress since last year, including the addition of a free customer option with marketing material, training, and a one-person trial. Wayne mentions plans for future integrations with other tools like Zendesk, Freshdesk, Halo, and Simot, aiming to make their solution end-user centric and adaptable to different tool changes. Artificial Intelligence (AI) development is underway at Symoda, with the goal of improving efficiency and providing personalized support options. Wayne shares insights on building customer trust, personalization, and the value of feedback in product evolution. Key Takeaways: Symoda addresses communication challenges in the MSP industryThe platform is expanding from mobile to desktop and team platformsIntegration with ConnectWise and Autotask enhances communication and supportAI development aims to improve efficiency and personalized supportEffective communication is crucial for managing customer relationshipsSymoda offers customizable push notifications and targeted communicationFuture integrations planned with various tools to increase adaptabilityWebsite: https://symoda.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv and Matt Koenig catch up after a missed meeting at IT Nation Secure. They discuss NodeWare's continuous vulnerability management solution and its recent spin-off as a separate company. Matt highlights Nodeware's compliance with various cybersecurity standards, including the recently updated CIS control version 8.1. The conversation covers Nodeware's new patch management feature, which allows users to schedule and deploy Windows updates directly from the dashboard. Matt explains the process of selecting and applying patches, emphasizing the importance of giving users notice before reboots. They discuss the challenges MSPs face in implementing vulnerability management across all clients and Nodeware's efforts to address these concerns. Matt mentions potential partnerships with third-party companies to assist MSPs in managing the initial influx of vulnerability data. The podcast touches on NodeWare's integrations with various platforms and marketplaces, as well as upcoming features like third-party patching for Windows ecosystem applications and support for Mac and Linux systems. Uncle Marv and Matt stress the importance of MSPs being proactive in cybersecurity, understanding their clients' cyber liability insurance requirements, and avoiding "willful ignorance" when it comes to security vulnerabilities. Key Takeaways: Nodeware now offers patch management directly from its dashboardContinuous vulnerability management is crucial for compliance and cybersecurityMSPs should be proactive in addressing security vulnerabilities for all clientsUnderstanding and meeting cyber liability insurance requirements is essentialUpcoming features include third-party patching and support for Mac and Linux systems === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Larry Garcia introduces Strety as a Business Operating System Software (BOSS) designed to help companies improve operational efficiency. The tool focuses on key performance indicators (KPIs), goal setting, and project management. Strety integrates with Microsoft Teams and offers features such as smart agendas, automatic reminders, and goal tracking. It can be used internally by MSPs and can also be offered to their clients as a value-added service. Garcia explains that Strety helps companies execute on data insights, filling the gap left by tools like Bright Gauge, which primarily focused on data visualization. The platform guides users through implementing operational improvements, similar to what a business coach might recommend. The interview highlights Strety's approach to onboarding, recommending that companies start with weekly meeting cadences before progressing to goal setting and long-term planning. Garcia shares an example of an MSP that improved efficiency by 5-10% after implementing Strety, potentially saving on hiring additional staff. Garcia also discusses Strety's participation in the IT Nation Pitch It program and their plans for future growth and development. Key Takeaways: Strety is a business management tool designed for operational efficiencyIt integrates with Microsoft Teams to reduce tool fatigueThe platform can be used internally by MSPs and offered to their clientsStrety focuses on KPIs, goal setting, and project managementImplementation can lead to significant efficiency improvements for businessesWebsite: https://www.strety.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Patrick Clawson introduces CheckRed Security as a comprehensive cloud security SaaS solution that covers both cybersecurity and compliance aspects. The platform uniquely addresses IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS security in a single multi-tenant environment, making it ideal for service providers. CheckRed goes beyond monitoring and risk assessment by providing guided remediation workflows and detailed reports. The platform is designed to be MSP-friendly, with features like free sign-ups and simplified charging based on employee count. Clawson highlights the platform's efficiency, mentioning that it can scan a 1,000-user environment in just 10 minutes and a 70,000-user environment in about an hour and 15 minutes. This speed allows MSPs to create new revenue-generating opportunities quickly. The platform is API-based and doesn't require agents. It integrates with existing cyber platforms like SOAR, XDR, and SEM. CheckRed provides a multi-tenant view for MSPs, allowing them to see security scores for all clients at once, based on the NIST ERM score. CheckRed covers about 60 major SaaS apps, including less commonly monitored platforms like Monday.com. The platform also includes an SDK for onboarding and managing lesser-known apps at a local level.Key Takeaways: CheckRed offers a comprehensive cloud security solution for IaaS, PaaS, and SaaSThe platform is designed specifically for MSPs and service providersRapid scanning and reporting capabilities save time and create new revenue opportunitiesMulti-tenant design allows easy management of multiple clientsCovers a wide range of SaaS apps, including less common onesWebsite: https://checkred.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv interviews Zach Kromkowski from Senteon, a cybersecurity company participating in the IT Nation Pitch It Accelerator program. Senteon provides automated system hardening and compliance solutions for workstations, servers, and browsers based on CIS standards. Zach explains that Senteon's platform automates the implementation of over 1,200 security settings recommended by CIS. The company has rewritten about 550 GPOs from a security perspective and hosts weekly educational webinars with CIS and subject matter experts to discuss these settings. Senteon's approach differs from traditional methods like Intune or Group Policy by not only pushing changes but also verifying their effectiveness. The platform includes a learning mode to tailor risk assessments and create a roadmap for improving security posture over time. The interview covers Senteon's pricing model, which is $1 per endpoint per month with a 250-endpoint minimum. Zach emphasizes the tool's MSP-friendly features, including multi-tenancy support and the ability to deploy settings across multiple clients. Key features of Senteon include real-time monitoring, analysis, and alerting, as well as the ability to track changes made by users and revert them if necessary. The platform also offers an "undo button" to quickly revert all changes made by Senteon. Zach highlights Senteon's unique approach to security configuration management, making changes directly via the Win32 API rather than relying on Microsoft tools. The platform works with both cloud and on-premises environments and can help identify misconfigured settings and potential security issues. Key Takeaways: Senteon automates system hardening based on CIS standardsThe platform covers 1,200+ security settings for workstations, servers, and browsersSenteon offers real-time monitoring, analysis, and alertingPricing is $1 per endpoint per month with a 250-endpoint minimumThe platform includes a learning mode and multi-tenancy support for MSPsSenteon can identify misconfigured settings and potential security issuesThe "undo button" allows quick reversion of all changes made by SenteonWebsite: www.senteon.com === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Robert J. Scott, co-founder of Monjur, returns to the IT Business Podcast to discuss their contracts-as-a-service platform for IT managed service providers. Scott highlights the benefits of participating in the IT Nation Pitch It Accelerator program, including valuable connections and exposure that have accelerated Monjur's growth. Monjur offers a cloud-based legal service with industry-leading templates customized for each MSP and dynamically updated. The platform integrates with quoting tools and sales processes, streamlining the contracting process. Scott explains the difference between their Essentials and Standard plans, with the Essentials plan designed for smaller MSPs with revenue under $1.5 million. The interview covers how Monjur stays current with various state and international laws using AI-powered legal research tools in partnership with Lexis Nexus. Scott also discusses the affordability of their services, with plans starting at $149 per month for smaller MSPs. The conversation explores the types of templates available, including master service agreements, statements of work, and specialized attachments for managed compliance and AI services. Scott emphasizes the importance of their Schedule of Third-Party Services, which acts as a waiver protecting MSPs from liability related to third-party vendors. The podcast also discusses the relationship between Monjur's services and E&O insurance, highlighting how their platform provides additional protections not covered by insurance. Scott explains how Monjur can assist MSPs in incident response and claims defense, depending on their insurance carrier and policy.Key Takeaways: Monjur offers cloud-based, dynamically updated legal services for MSPsThe platform integrates with quoting tools to streamline the contracting processPricing starts at $149/month for smaller MSPs with revenue under $1.5 millionMonjur uses AI-powered legal research tools to stay current with laws and regulationsThe Schedule of Third-Party Services provides crucial liability protection for MSPsMonjur's services complement E&O insurance by offering additional protections === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv sits down with Michelle Accardi, CEO of LionGard, to explore the latest advancements in MSP technology and the exciting developments at LionGard. The conversation kicks off with a discussion about Liongard’s role in enhancing MSP operations through comprehensive attack surface management. Michelle explains how Liongard’s platform automates IT asset inventory, monitors configuration changes, and provides a cyber risk dashboard tied to cyber insurance controls.Michelle introduces Leo, Liongard’s generative AI support agent, designed to assist partners with support needs, ticket updates, and generating new reports. This AI tool aims to increase partner satisfaction by providing immediate answers and facilitating efficient problem resolution.The episode also highlights the upcoming RoarCon event, Liongard’s inaugural user conference, set to take place in Frisco, Texas. Michelle shares her excitement about the event, which will feature keynote speaker Eric O'Neill, a cybersecurity expert and former FBI operative. Additionally, Michelle discusses her initiative, MSP Mavens, a networking group for women executives in the MSP industry, aimed at fostering peer support and professional growth.Throughout the interview, Michelle emphasizes the importance of growth for both LionGard and its MSP partners. She discusses strategies for MSPs to monetize their tech stacks and improve efficiency, ultimately driving profitability. The episode concludes with a light-hearted segment where Michelle shares a personal story about her daughter's recent adventure in Florida.Key TakeawaysLiongard’s Platform: Automates IT asset inventory, monitors configuration changes, and provides a cyber risk dashboard.Leo AI Support Agent: Assists with support needs, ticket updates, and report generation, enhancing partner satisfaction.RoarCon Event: Liongard’s inaugural user conference featuring cybersecurity expert Eric O'Neill.MSP Mavens: A networking group for women executives in the MSP industry, promoting peer support and professional growth.Growth Strategies: Emphasis on monetizing tech stacks and improving efficiency to drive profitability for MSPs.Website: https://www.liongard.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv recaps his recent attendance at multiple tech conferences, focusing on IT Nation Secure and PAX 8 Beyond. He highlights key announcements from these events, including ConnectWise's Security 360 product and PAX 8's new Marketplace. The podcast explores the world of conference swag, with Uncle Marv reviewing various items across categories such as tech gadgets, writing utensils, socks, and shirts. He emphasizes the importance of thoughtful, quality swag that attendees will actually use and appreciate. In a special segment, Uncle Marv interviews Cynthia Schreiner from CyberQP about their popular hot sauce swag. Cynthia explains the thought process behind choosing hot sauce as their signature item, highlighting its ability to start conversations and leave a lasting impression. The episode also touches on the increasing number of tech conferences and the challenges of attending multiple events in a short period. Uncle Marv expresses his intention to scale back on conference attendance in the future.Key Takeaways: ConnectWise released Security 360, a new product for MSPs to aggregate security dataPAX 8 unveiled their new Marketplace with features like storefronts and Opportunity ExplorerQuality and thoughtfulness in swag items are crucial for leaving a lasting impressionUnique swag items, like CyberQP's hot sauce, can become a company's signature at eventsThe tech conference landscape is becoming increasingly crowdedWebsite: https://cyberqp.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv welcomes Darrin Swan with Todyl to discuss the company's comprehensive cybersecurity platform designed for SMBs and MSPs. Darrein explains that Todyl was founded to address the growing cybersecurity challenges faced by smaller businesses that lack the resources of larger enterprises. Todyl's platform integrates various security tools into a single, user-friendly solution, including next-gen firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and secure remote access capabilities. This approach simplifies cybersecurity management for SMBs and allows MSPs to offer robust security services to their clients more efficiently. Darrin highlights the importance of a layered security approach, emphasizing that traditional antivirus solutions are no longer sufficient in today's threat landscape. He explains how Todyl's platform provides comprehensive protection against a wide range of cyber threats, including ransomware, phishing, and advanced persistent threats. The conversation touches on the challenges of securing remote work environments, a concern that has become increasingly relevant in recent years. Todyl's solution includes secure remote access features that enable businesses to protect their networks and data regardless of where employees are working. Darrin also discusses Todyl's partnership model with MSPs, explaining how the platform enables these providers to offer enterprise-grade security solutions to their SMB clients without the need for extensive in-house expertise or resources. This model helps bridge the cybersecurity gap for smaller businesses while creating new revenue opportunities for MSPs. The interview concludes with Darren sharing his insights on the future of cybersecurity, predicting a continued increase in threats and the growing importance of AI and machine learning in detecting and mitigating these risks. Key Takeaways: Todyl offers a comprehensive cybersecurity platform tailored for SMBs and MSPs.The platform integrates multiple security tools into a single, user-friendly solution.A layered security approach is crucial in today's threat landscape.Secure remote access is a key feature for protecting distributed work environments.Todyl's partnership model enables MSPs to offer enterprise-grade security to SMBs.AI and machine learning are expected to play an increasing role in future cybersecurity solutions.Website: https://www.todyl.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Simon Green, a veteran in the IT industry, joins Uncle Marv to discuss his extensive career and the changing landscape of technology. With over 25 years of experience, Simon has witnessed the transformation of IT from mainframes to cloud computing. Simon reflects on his early days in IT, starting as a programmer and gradually moving into management roles. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in the fast-paced tech world. Simon shares how he transitioned from hands-on technical work to leadership positions, highlighting the need for both technical expertise and people skills in IT management. The conversation covers the challenges faced by IT professionals, including keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies and managing client expectations. Simon offers practical advice for newcomers to the field, stressing the importance of building a strong foundation in core IT concepts while remaining open to emerging trends. Simon and Uncle Marv explore the impact of cloud computing and artificial intelligence on the IT landscape. They discuss how these technologies are reshaping businesses and creating new opportunities for IT professionals. Simon provides insights on how companies can leverage these technologies to improve efficiency and stay competitive. The episode concludes with Simon sharing his thoughts on the future of IT and offering guidance to business owners on integrating technology into their operations. He emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to IT investments and the importance of aligning technology with business goals.Key Takeaways: Continuous learning is crucial in the ever-evolving IT industryBalancing technical skills with people management is key for IT leadersCloud computing and AI are transforming the IT landscapeA strong foundation in core IT concepts is essential for career growthAligning IT strategies with business goals is critical for success === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Rex Frank, a veteran in the managed services industry, shares his journey from working at a break-fix company to becoming a leader in managed services. He emphasizes the critical role of process documentation in scaling IT businesses and improving service quality. Frank discusses the challenges faced by managed service providers (MSPs) in the early days, including the transition from break-fix models to proactive maintenance. He highlights the importance of standardization and how it contributes to better service delivery and increased profitability. The conversation explores the concept of "process maturity" and its impact on business operations. Frank explains how well-documented processes can lead to consistent service delivery, reduced errors, and improved customer satisfaction. He also touches on the significance of employee training and the benefits of having clearly defined roles and responsibilities within an organization.Frank shares insights on pricing strategies for MSPs, emphasizing the need to align pricing with the value delivered to clients. He discusses the evolution of pricing models in the industry and how businesses can optimize their pricing to remain competitive while ensuring profitability. The interview concludes with Frank's thoughts on the future of managed services, including the potential impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the industry. He encourages MSPs to continually adapt and improve their processes to stay ahead in an ever-changing technological landscape. Key Takeaways: Process documentation is crucial for scaling IT businessesStandardization leads to improved service delivery and profitabilityWell-defined processes contribute to consistent service and reduced errorsPricing should align with the value delivered to clientsContinuous adaptation and improvement are essential for MSP success === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Nancy Henriquez, an IT veteran with more than two decades of experience, joins Uncle Marv to discuss her career trajectory and the lessons she's learned in the tech industry. Nancy began her journey at Motorola, where she spent 15 years honing her skills and climbing the corporate ladder. She then moved to Citrix, where she faced new challenges and opportunities for growth. Throughout the interview, Nancy emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the IT field. She shares how she navigated through various roles, from individual contributor to people manager, and the valuable lessons she gained from each position. Nancy also discusses the significance of mentorship and how it has shaped her career and leadership style. The conversation explores the challenges Nancy faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry. She offers advice on how to overcome these obstacles and the importance of building a strong support network. Nancy also shares her experiences with work-life balance and how she manages to juggle her professional responsibilities with personal commitments. Nancy provides insights into effective leadership strategies, stressing the importance of empathy, clear communication, and fostering a positive team culture. She discusses how these principles have helped her succeed in her current role as a senior director at a major tech company. The interview concludes with Nancy's thoughts on the future of IT and the skills that will be crucial for success in the coming years. She encourages listeners to embrace change, stay curious, and never stop learning. Key Takeaways: Continuous learning is crucial in the fast-paced IT industryMentorship plays a vital role in career developmentAdaptability is key to navigating different roles and companiesEffective leadership requires empathy and clear communicationBuilding a strong support network is essential for overcoming challengesWork-life balance is achievable with proper time management and prioritizationEmbracing change and staying curious are important for long-term success in IT === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv sits down with Daniel Ellis, the CEO and founder of PC PowerSave, to discuss the innovative software solution designed to reduce energy consumption and costs for computer systems. Daniel shares his passion for technology and sustainability, detailing his journey from working in IT for a school to developing a prototype that eventually became PC PowerSave. Daniel explains how PC PowerSave works, highlighting its two main modes: analysis and optimization. The software analyzes the power consumption of computer systems and provides detailed reports on potential savings. It then optimizes settings to reduce energy usage, such as adjusting monitor brightness and shutting down idle computers. This not only saves money but also helps MSPs demonstrate value to their clients. The conversation also covers the practical aspects of deploying PC PowerSave, including its compatibility with various hardware and its ease of installation via a single PowerShell command. Daniel emphasizes the software's flexibility, allowing MSPs to resell it or integrate it into their service offerings as a differentiator. Daniel shares his experiences with the Pitch It Accelerator program and his involvement in the IT Nation community, expressing his excitement for the upcoming IT Nation Connect event. The episode concludes with Uncle Marv wishing Daniel luck in the Pitch It contest and encouraging listeners to explore more vendor profiles on the IT Business Podcast website.Key TakeawaysPC PowerSave is a software solution designed to reduce energy consumption and costs for computer systems.The software operates in two modes: analysis and optimization, providing detailed reports and making subtle adjustments to save energy.MSPs can resell the software or integrate it into their service offerings, providing a financial and environmental benefit to their clients.The software is easy to deploy via a single PowerShell command and is compatible with various hardware, excluding Mac systems.Daniel Ellis shares his journey from IT work in a school to developing PC PowerSave and his involvement in the IT Nation community. === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Introduction:Uncle Marv introduces the episode and the guest, Dave Maik from Defense X.Defense X is a cybersecurity company that participated in the IT Nation Pitch It Accelerator Program.Discussion Highlights:Program Experience: Dave shares his positive experience with the Pitch It program, emphasizing the exposure and growth it provided.Product Features: Defense X offers a secure web browser solution with DNS protection, credential protection, and file protection. The core product focuses on browsing protection, preventing credential misuse, and scanning file downloads.Employee Monitoring: The product includes features for monitoring employee activities and assessing risk scores based on their browsing behavior.New DNS Solution: Defense X recently launched a cost-effective DNS-only solution at 25 cents per license, aimed at providing basic protection and an entry point for further upgrades.Feature Enhancements: The company continuously updates its product based on client feedback, ensuring quick implementation of new features.AI Integration: Defense X is exploring AI to enhance its cybersecurity solutions.Market Differentiation: Dave explains how Defense X's DNS solution offers more comprehensive features compared to other products and integrates well with various MSP tools like ConnectWise, Ninja, and Datto.Future Plans: The company aims to expand its market presence and continue adapting to new cybersecurity threats.Key TakeawaysDefense X provides a comprehensive cybersecurity solution with secure web browsing, DNS protection, credential protection, and file protection.The company has launched a new, affordable DNS-only solution to help MSPs start with basic protection.Defense X continuously updates its product based on client feedback, ensuring quick implementation of new features.The company is exploring AI to enhance its cybersecurity offerings.Defense X's solutions integrate well with various MSP tools, providing a seamless experience for users.Website: https://www.defensx.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Cameron McFie introduces Xeneth's flagship product, MSPlus, which provides billing automation solutions for managed service providers. The software focuses on two main modules: Microsoft CSP (Cloud Solution Provider) and managed services contracts. MSPlus aims to save MSPs time and money by automating billing processes, particularly for Microsoft 365, Azure, and other managed services. Cameron explains that the software can significantly reduce billing time, with some companies cutting their billing process from 30 days to just a day or two. The discussion highlights the potential for increased revenue, with Cameron stating that MSPs are often under-billing by 5-10% due to manual errors or outdated pricing. This translates to a global issue worth billions of dollars in the managed services industry. Cameron emphasizes Xeneth's expertise in the Microsoft CSP program and their ability to provide consulting services alongside their software. He explains unique features like split billing for different user types and the ability to accurately bill for various Microsoft services, including Azure usage. The conversation touches on Cameron's background in the MSP industry and how his experiences led to the creation of Xeneth. He shares anecdotes about under-billing issues in his previous roles, which motivated him to develop a solution for accurate billing. The interview concludes with Cameron discussing Xeneth's participation in the IT Nation Pitch It Accelerator program and their plans for future growth. He mentions their focus on serving MSPs with 50 or more customers and their goal to streamline the onboarding process further. Key Takeaways: MSPlus automates billing for Microsoft CSP and managed services contractsThe software can save MSPs significant time in their billing processesMany MSPs are under-billing by 5-10%, leading to lost revenueXeneth offers expertise in Microsoft CSP alongside their software solutionThe product is best suited for MSPs with 50 or more customersXeneth offers a free trial for up to 10 customers to demonstrate potential revenue gainsWebsite: https://xeneth.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv sits down with Doug Kreitzberg, the founder and CEO of SeedPod Cyber, to explore the intricacies of cyber insurance tailored for managed service providers (MSPs) and their clients. Doug explains that SeedPod Cyber offers a full-fledged cyber insurance program that protects against various cyber threats, including ransomware attacks, data breaches, and social engineering. Unlike traditional insurance providers, SeedPod Cyber partners with MSPs to get a behind-the-firewall view of their clients' environments, allowing for more accurate risk assessment and competitive pricing. Doug elaborates on how their approach differs from the rest of the market, which often relies on external scanning and application data, leading to higher costs due to uncertainty. By underwriting the tech stack and deployment of MSPs, SeedPod Cyber can offer substantial savings to businesses. He also discusses the regulatory aspects of selling insurance and how their partnership model allows MSPs to present insurance options without needing a license. The episode explores the specifics of the controls SeedPod Cyber looks for, such as automated patch management, EDR solutions, multi-factor authentication, and backup protocols. Doug shares success stories where businesses have significantly reduced their insurance costs by meeting these criteria.Doug also reflects on his journey to founding SeedPod Cyber, driven by his experience managing cyber incidents and recognizing the need for integrated insurance and security solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. He highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and the potential for dynamic pricing based on real-time risk assessment. Finally, Doug shares his positive experience with the IT Nation Pitch It Accelerator Program, emphasizing the value of the insights gained and the exposure to the MSP community. He expresses optimism about the future, regardless of the competition's outcome, and looks forward to leveraging the networks built during the program.Key TakeawaysInnovative Cyber Insurance: SeedPod Cyber offers a unique cyber insurance program that partners with MSPs for better risk assessment and competitive pricing.Behind-the-Firewall Approach: By getting a behind-the-firewall view, SeedPod Cyber can accurately assess risks and reduce insurance costs.Regulatory Compliance: MSPs can present insurance options to clients without needing a license, thanks to SeedPod Cyber's partnership model.Comprehensive Controls: The insurance program looks for specific security controls, such as automated patch management and multi-factor authentication.Success Stories: Businesses have saved significantly on insurance costs by meeting SeedPod Cyber's criteria.Founder’s Journey: Doug Kreitzberg's experience with cyber incidents led him to create an integrated insurance and security solution for SMBs.Continuous Monitoring: Future plans include dynamic pricing based on real-time risk assessment.Positive Pitch It Experience: The IT Nation Pitch It Accelerator Program has provided valuable insights and exposure to the MSP community.Links from the showWebsite: https://seedpodcyber.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv kicks off the show by recounting his travel woes from the previous week, which prevented him from recording the live show. He then introduces his guest, Matt Forman, the owner of Local Circuit IT, a successful MSP based in Denton, Texas. Matt shares his experience of growing his business from a two-person team to a staff of four, emphasizing the importance of finding the right employees who fit the company culture. He discusses the challenges of letting go of control and delegating responsibilities as the business expands. Matt attributes his steady growth to hiring employees who genuinely enjoy their work and prioritizing customer service above all else. The conversation then shifts to Matt's plans for relocating to a larger office space due to structural issues with their current building. He expresses his dislike for the moving process but recognizes the need for more space to accommodate his growing team. On the topic of marketing, Matt admits it's his weakest area as an introvert. He relies heavily on word-of-mouth referrals and a website designed to guide potential clients through the sales process. Uncle Marv offers marketing advice, suggesting community involvement, networking events, and leveraging local awards and recognition. Other topics covered include handling after-hours work, offering unlimited PTO, and the benefits of being involved in local charities and community boards.Key TakeawaysFinding the right employees who fit the company culture is crucial for growth.Prioritizing customer service and going the extra mile can set a business apart.Steady, intentional growth is preferable to rapid, uncontrolled expansion.Marketing can be challenging for introverted business owners, but word-of-mouth and community involvement can be effective strategies.Relocating to a larger office space may be necessary as a business grows, but the moving process can be daunting.Links from the showLocal Circuit Website: https://www.thelocalcircuit.com/Florida Man Caught on Video Buying Mask Before Failed Robbery: https://tinyurl.com/p2c6npuk === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Juan Fernandez, the Global Channel Chief of SuperOps, shares exciting announcements and insights from the Pax8Beyond event in Denver. He reveals that SuperOps has joined the PAX8 Marketplace, becoming the first and only RMM/PSA offering available through the platform. This integration not only streamlines the procurement process for MSPs but also unlocks a range of benefits through the SuperOps + PAX8 partnership. Juan highlights the launch of the SuperOps + PAX8 Academy, which will provide training, peer groups, and a dedicated help desk to support MSPs in building their processes and procedures around SuperOps. Additionally, he unveils VisionX, a groundbreaking product that empowers MSPs to visualize and plan their desired future growth, profitability, and operational metrics. VisionX offers a comprehensive view of technician proficiency, customer fit, and other key factors, enabling MSPs to make informed decisions and chart their path to success. Juan emphasizes SuperOps' commitment to supporting MSPs of all sizes, from solopreneurs to million-dollar businesses, by providing customizable tools and resources. He acknowledges the unique challenges faced by smaller MSPs and highlights VisionX's ability to help them achieve their desired goals, whether it's employee satisfaction, customer retention, or business growth. The interview concludes with Juan's passion for driving positive change in the industry, culminating in the announcement of "Change Day" on June 11, 2024, at the Beyond MSP event. This initiative aims to transform the industry by empowering MSPs to break free from conformity and embrace their unique paths to success.Key TakeawaysSuperOps joins the PAX8 Marketplace as the first and only RMM/PSA offeringSuperOps + PAX8 Academy, peer groups, and dedicated help desk for MSP supportVisionX empowers MSPs to visualize and plan desired growth, profitability, and operationsCommitment to supporting MSPs of all sizes with customizable tools and resources"Change Day" announced for June 11, 2024, at the Beyond MSP event === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Josh Liberman, a veteran conference-goer, shares his insights from attending the Pax8 Beyond conference. He commends the impressive logistical execution and seamless organization of the event, highlighting the vast array of vendors present. Josh emphasizes the significance of discovering new technologies and processes at these conferences, as well as the opportunity to connect with fellow professionals and exchange ideas. Josh reveals that he encountered around 15 vendors he was previously unfamiliar with at the Pax8 Beyond conference, underscoring the value of exploring new offerings and niches. He provides background on his company, NetSciences, and the challenges of operating an MSP in New Mexico, a state often overlooked in the industry. Despite the geographical isolation, Josh expresses his appreciation for the Southwest region's unique landscape and culture. He draws a parallel between the networking opportunities at conferences and his annual visits to a small island in Belize, where he encounters familiar faces in a tight-knit community.Key TakeawaysPax8 Beyond conference showcased impressive logistical execution and a diverse range of vendors.Discovering new technologies, processes, and networking with peers are key benefits of attending industry events.Josh encountered around 15 previously unknown vendors at the conference.Operating an MSP in New Mexico presents unique challenges due to the state's geographical isolation.Josh values the Southwest region's landscape and culture, drawing parallels to his annual visits to a small island in Belize. === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Brian Kane, representing Malwarebytes, joins the podcast to discuss the company's new product line, ThreatDown, which replaces their previous business offerings. ThreatDown provides a centralized OneView portal for multi-tenant management and security scoring of client environments. The Security Advisor feature in OneView assigns a security score based on factors like deployment levels, patch status, and integrations with RMM/PSA tools, helping MSPs identify and address security gaps. ThreatDown is available through distribution partners like Pax8, catering to both usage-based and upfront license purchase models based on MSP preferences. Malwarebytes has transitioned from a direct sales model to a channel-focused approach, working closely with partners and distribution to drive business. The company values customer feedback and incorporates it into product development and enhancements.Key Takeaways: ThreatDown is Malwarebytes' new enterprise-class SMB security solutionOneView portal provides centralized multi-tenant management and security scoringSecurity Advisor feature assigns security scores based on deployment, patching, and integrationsAvailable through distribution partners like Pax8, with flexible licensing modelsMalwarebytes has shifted to a channel-focused approach, valuing partner collaboration === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

In this insightful episode, Ken Patterson, formerly of Pax8, joins Uncle Marv to discuss his new role at Todyl and his vision for building a true community for MSPs. Ken shares his passion for helping MSPs mature and succeed, emphasizing the importance of education over hard selling. He advocates for a more prescriptive approach, akin to doctors, where MSPs diagnose clients' needs and prescribe tailored solutions rather than pushing products. Ken stresses the need for MSPs to "drink their own champagne" by using the same solutions they recommend to clients, fostering deeper understanding and credibility. He also highlights the importance of educating clients on business solutions beyond just technology, positioning MSPs as trusted advisors. The conversation touches on Ken's fond memories at Pax8, the company's remarkable growth, and the warm welcome he received at their event, PAX8 Beyond. Ken expresses excitement about his new role at Todyl and his vision for building a robust community platform where MSPs can connect, share insights, and feel heard. Key Takeaways: Importance of building a true community for MSPsMSPs should use the same solutions they recommend ("drink their own champagne")Educate clients on business solutions beyond just technologyMove away from hard-selling tactics towards a more prescriptive approachFoster a sense of belonging and being heard in the MSP community === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Tim Golden, co-founder of Compliance Scorecard, joins Uncle Marv to discuss the latest version 5.0 release of their governance-as-a-service platform. The new release introduces several compliance-focused features to help MSPs better manage risks and compliance requirements for their clients. One of the key new features is the risk register, which allows MSPs to identify and track areas of risk for their clients. MSPs can essentially build an "Amazon shopping cart" of risks, quote them, and work with clients to either mitigate or accept those risks. This provides a structured way to have risk conversations and maintain defensibility over time. Another notable feature is the POAM (plan of actions and milestones), which provides a framework for planning actions, assigning responsibilities, setting timelines, and tracking costs associated with addressing identified risks. This helps MSPs streamline the risk mitigation process and project management. Compliance Scorecard is designed to help MSPs navigate the complexities of compliance, cybersecurity readiness assessments, and risk management conversations with their customers. Tim highlights their peer group and educational resources as key differentiators, enabling MSPs to learn best practices and processes for compliance and risk management. Key Takeaways: Compliance Scorecard version 5.0 introduces risk register and POAM featuresRisk register allows tracking and quoting risks for clientsPOAM provides structured planning for risk mitigation actionsPlatform helps MSPs have risk conversations and manage compliancePeer group and educational resources differentiate the offering === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Michelle Ragusa-McBain, Global Channel Chief at SonicWALL, joins Uncle Marv at PAX 8 Beyond 24 to discuss the company's recent developments and partner-focused initiatives.SonicWALL's Acquisition of Solutions GrantedMichelle shares insights into SonicWALL's acquisition of Solutions Granted, a managed security services provider. The acquisition allows SonicWALL to integrate Solutions Granted's offerings into their Secure First program, providing partners with a comprehensive security solution that includes managed detection and response (MDR), endpoint detection and response (EDR), and security operations center (SOC) as a service.Improving Partner ExperienceSonicWALL is committed to listening to partner feedback and taking swift action to improve processes. Michelle highlights the company's efforts to streamline the deal registration process based on partner survey responses, making it easier for partners to do business with SonicWALL.New Customer Deal RateTo incentivize partners and attract new customers, SonicWALL has introduced a new customer deal rate, offering a 50% discount for partners bringing new customers to the company. This initiative aims to support partner growth and success.Michelle's Globetrotting AdventuresIn addition to business updates, Michelle shares her passion for travel, recounting her recent family vacation to Europe, including stops in England, Amsterdam, Belgium, and Paris. She also reveals her upcoming three-week safari adventure in Africa, spanning five countries and including the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti.Key TakeawaysSonicWALL is integrating Solutions Granted's managed security services into their Secure First program.The company is improving processes like deal registration based on partner feedback.SonicWALL introduced a new customer deal rate, offering a 50% discount for new customers.Michelle Ragusa-McBain is an avid traveler, recently visiting Europe and planning a safari in Africa. === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Episode Sponsor: Thread (www.getthread.com)=== Adam Anderson, co-founder of Threat Captain, joins the podcast to discuss his company's mission and its participation in the PitchIT accelerator program. Threat Captain is a cybersecurity leadership development company dedicated to bridging the gap between executive leadership and security teams through strategic alignment and informed decision-making.The company has developed a financial risk platform that helps people understand and communicate the financial impact of cybercrime. This platform is designed to facilitate better conversations between technology providers and their customers by graphically showing the likelihood and potential financial impact of a cyber breach based on the customer's security controls.Threat Captain's software platform is a SaaS tool that runs simulations on cyber threats and impacts, providing reports for MSPs to share with their customers during QBRs or for prospecting. It leverages data feeds from the MITRE ATT&CK framework and the Verizon Data Impact Report to assess the likelihood and potential financial costs of a breach based on the customer's security posture.While initially targeting the insurance industry, Threat Captain pivoted to focus on the MSP market, recognizing the need for transparency and data-driven insights to sell cybersecurity services effectively. The company is currently in its first eight months and is actively seeking integrations with various MSP software products to enhance its platform's capabilities.Threat Captain's participation in the PitchIT accelerator program aims to gain valuable feedback from potential customers and industry experts, ensuring they build the best possible product from the outset.Key TakeawaysThreat Captain provides a financial risk platform to help communicate the financial impact of cybercrime.The platform assesses the likelihood and potential financial costs of a cyber breach based on a customer's security controls.Threat Captain's software runs simulations and provides reports for MSPs to share with customers.The company leverages data from the MITRE ATT&CK framework and Verizon Data Impact Report.Threat Captain is actively seeking integrations with various MSP software products.Participation in the PitchIT accelerator program aims to gather feedback and insights for product development.Links from the showWebsite: https://threatcaptain.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Episode Sponsor: Thread (www.getthread.com)=== Larry Meador, the Channel Chief at Infima, joins the IT Business Podcast to discuss Infima's cybersecurity platform, which offers fully automated security awareness training and phishing simulations tailored for managed service providers (MSPs) and their clients.Infima's platform is built on behavioral science principles, designed to help users retain information and change their reflexes when encountering potential phishing threats. The platform is optimized for MSPs, with a three-click client onboarding process and automated user synchronization using the Microsoft Graph API, eliminating the need for domain allow listing or manual user management.Once onboarded, Infima's platform is fully managed, handling user synchronization, reporting, and generating security awareness training policies to satisfy cyber insurance requirements. MSPs can receive aggregate reports on their clients' performance, allowing them to identify and focus on users who may need additional training.When a user falls for a phishing simulation, Infima provides immediate feedback and a personalized follow-up 24 hours later, reinforcing the teachable moment and helping users learn from their mistakes.Infima integrates with various MSP tools, including ConnectWise, Autotask Billing, Lifecycle Insights (now part of ScalePad), and Acronis, with more integrations in the works. MSPs praise Infima for the time savings and worry-free experience it provides, eliminating the need for manual configuration and maintenance.Infima offers a unique value proposition with no contracts, a pay-per-use model, and free NFRs (not for resale) licenses for MSPs to use the platform for their own staff, ensuring they understand the client experience.Larry emphasizes Infima's commitment to building true partnerships and friendships with MSPs, going beyond a transactional vendor-partner relationship.Key TakeawaysInfima's security awareness training is based on behavioral science principles to help users retain information and change reflexes.The platform is optimized for MSPs, with three-click client onboarding and automated user synchronization.Infima's platform is fully managed, handling reporting, user synchronization, and cyber insurance policy generation.Immediate and personalized feedback is provided when users fall for phishing simulations.Infima integrates with various MSP tools and has a no-contract, pay-per-use model with free NFRs for MSPs.Infima focuses on building true partnerships and friendships with MSPs.Links from the showWebsite: https://infimasec.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Episode Sponsor: Thread (www.getthread.com)=== Mark Lamb, the founder and CEO of HighGround.io, joins the podcast to discuss his cybersecurity platform designed for IT service providers. HighGround.io is a cybersecurity sales tool that helps MSPs communicate their clients' technology spend, cybersecurity posture, and resilience in a visually appealing and understandable manner.[1]The platform integrates with PSA tools like ConnectWise Manage to pull down a client's spend data with the MSP. It then maps this spend across various technology areas, such as support, cybersecurity, backup, Office 365, and connectivity. This visual representation allows clients to understand where their money is being allocated.[1]HighGround.io also enables MSPs to quickly assess their clients' cybersecurity posture and resilience. It provides three primary metrics: the cyber score (a universal metric of security posture), the resilience score (readiness to respond and recover from a cyber attack), and a visual mapping of these scores against the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.[1]Mark emphasizes that while KPIs are useful, they don't fully explain the breadth of security. By mapping the scores to the NIST framework, clients can easily identify their strengths and weaknesses across different security domains, such as protection, detection, and recovery.[1]HighGround.io is designed for ongoing use with existing clients, as cybersecurity is a continuous agenda item in MSP-client relationships. It facilitates holistic discussions about security while considering other IT services and challenges.[1]Mark shares his background as an MSP in Scotland, where he experienced firsthand the challenges of selling cybersecurity solutions to clients. Despite building a robust security stack, clients were reluctant to purchase it, leading Mark to investigate the root cause – a lack of understanding and complexity.[1]He emphasizes that HighGround.io addresses the sales problem that other vendors have failed to solve effectively. Unlike traditional risk assessments, which often result in clients only skimming the executive summary, HighGround.io aims to revolutionize the way MSPs communicate security posture and needs to clients.[1]Key TakeawaysHighGround.io is a cybersecurity sales tool for MSPs to visually represent clients' technology spend, cybersecurity posture, and resilience.It provides metrics like the cyber score, resilience score, and NIST framework mapping to communicate security posture effectively.The platform integrates with PSA tools and is designed for ongoing use with existing clients.Mark Lamb created HighGround.io based on his experience as an MSP, addressing the challenges of selling cybersecurity solutions.HighGround.io aims to revolutionize how MSPs communicate security needs to clients, moving away from traditional risk assessments.Links from the showWebsite: https://www.highground.io === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Episode Sponsor: Thread (www.getthread.com)=== Aportio Technologies is an IT service management startup that offers an AI-powered email and alert management plugin called Inbox Agent. The plugin is designed to help service desk agents work more efficiently by automating mundane tasks, categorizing requests, prioritizing them, and pre-assigning actions based on predefined rules.The idea behind Aportio stemmed from Scott Green's experience as the CEO of an MSP, where he witnessed the challenges faced by service desk agents. He realized that by automating repetitive tasks, agents could have more time to focus on providing exceptional customer service, akin to "singing" to customers.Inbox Agent is unique in several ways:It is specifically designed for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and integrates with popular Professional Services Automation (PSA) tools.It handles both user emails and system-generated alerts, ensuring a comprehensive solution.Its pre-trained AI model has a high degree of accuracy in categorizing requests out of the box.The AI-based categorization enables the creation of automated actions to solve problems faster and more efficiently.It can handle simple to complex use cases, making it a versatile solution.Aportio's origins lie in Scott Green's extensive experience in the MSP industry, spanning over 40 years. He recognized the need for innovation and decided to create a solution that addresses the challenges faced by service desk agents.While Aportio is a relatively new player in the US market, having started in New Zealand and Australia, its proven track record and scalable architecture make it a compelling choice for MSPs seeking to streamline their service desk operations.Key TakeawaysAportio's Inbox Agent automates mundane tasks for service desk agents, freeing up their time for better customer service.The AI-powered plugin categorizes requests, prioritizes them, and pre-assigns actions based on predefined rules.Inbox Agent is designed specifically for MSPs and integrates with popular PSA tools.Aportio's solution is proven, secure, and scalable, with a presence in multiple AWS regions.The company's origins stem from the founder's extensive experience in the MSP industry.Links from the showWebsite: https://www.aportio.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Jeff provides an update on the progress of integrating ConnectWise products into the ASIO unified platform. The next wave involves bringing the PSA, CPQ, BrightGauge, ITBoost, SIM, and MDR into ASIO, with a target timeline of Q3 or early Q4. This integration will enable a single ticketing system across all products, streamlining operations for partners.With a unified data layer, ConnectWise can create AI models that span multiple products and services. This allows for cross-product recommendations and insights, leveraging data from CPQ, PSA, RMM, and BrightGauge. Jeff acknowledges the fortuitous timing of their preparations aligning with the recent advancements in generative AI.Jeff addresses the recently announced Secure360 product and the ability to integrate third-party cloud and security products into ASIO. The vendor integration program ensures secure integrations by conducting security posture checks. Over 15-20 vendors are already integrated, with expectations for rapid growth in the coming months.Jeff clarifies that the ASIO agent, used for RMM, vulnerability management, and RPA, is also the agent for Secure360, dispelling confusion about needing separate agents. He explains the vendor onboarding process through the vendor program, which involves understanding the vendor's goals, marketing needs, and potential API requirements.Key Takeaways:ConnectWise is integrating its core products into the ASIO unified platform for streamlined operations.A unified data layer enables AI models spanning multiple products for cross-product insights.Secure360 allows integration of third-party cloud and security products into ASIO.The vendor program ensures secure integrations and facilitates vendor onboarding.The ASIO agent is a universal agent for various ConnectWise products and services. === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Episode Sponsor: Thread (www.getthread.com)=== ComplianceAid is an AI-driven, multilingual cybersecurity compliance platform designed to assist MSPs in offering compliance services to their clients. The platform utilizes a team of AI agents that act as virtual auditors, reading and aligning clients' existing documentation with compliance controls and generating context-enriched policies and procedures.The founders highlight the platform's ability to save time and resources for MSPs by automating the compliance assessment process. Instead of relying on expensive human auditors, ComplianceAid's AI auditors can assess compliance for all clients within a short timeframe, enabling MSPs to offer compliance services at a profitable rate.ComplianceAid offers flexibility in its service delivery model, allowing MSPs to either use the platform directly or have ComplianceAid handle the entire compliance assessment process. The platform supports various compliance frameworks, including NIST Cybersecurity Framework, HIPAA, and HITRUST, and can integrate with other systems through APIs or copy-paste functionality.The founders emphasize the platform's agility in adapting to new generative AI technologies and its multimodal capabilities, enabling it to understand and interpret graphs and images within documents.Key Takeaways: ComplianceAid offers an AI-driven cybersecurity compliance platform for MSPs.The platform automates compliance documentation generation and assessment processes.It saves time and resources by replacing or augmenting human auditors with AI auditors.MSPs can offer compliance services to all clients cost-effectively using ComplianceAid.The platform supports various compliance frameworks and can integrate with other systems.Links from the showWebsite: https://www.thecomplianceaide.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Matt Lee, known as the "most ethical hacker," joins the podcast to discuss the latest trends in cybersecurity. He shares insights on passwordless authentication using pass keys and FIDO protocols, which eliminate the risk of stolen passwords. Biometrics are also becoming more prevalent, combining factors like facial recognition, fingerprints, and behavioral patterns for stronger authentication. Matt previews some of the sessions he'll be leading at the upcoming Pax8 Beyond event, including a "wrong answers only" panel discussing controversial security topics in a lighthearted way. He emphasizes the importance of raising cybersecurity standards and continuous learning in the industry. In the second interview, Bobby Jacobs from Thread provides updates on their service experience platform since winning the PitchIT Accelerator program. They've rebranded their AI as "Magic AI" and released new features like the Planner for dispatchers, with a JIRA-like interface for scheduling tickets. Upcoming integrations include Time Zest for scheduling and Roost. Bobby discusses Thread's focus on providing a secure support experience through authenticated chat platforms like Teams and Slack. He also shares insights into the Pitch It Accelerator community and the coaching process for this year's participants.Key Takeaways: Passwordless authentication and biometrics are the future of cybersecurityContinuous learning and raising security standards are crucial in the industryThread's service experience platform is expanding with new features and integrationsThe PitchIT Accelerator fosters a supportive community for startups in the MSP spaceEpisode Sponsor: Thread (www.getthread.com) === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Tim, a combat veteran who has served four tours and spent over five years in war zones, discusses how K9 for Warriors has transformed his life by pairing him with his service dog, Coop. He explains that the organization takes veterans who have become introverted and pairs them with rescued shelter dogs trained to provide companionship and help them reintegrate into society. The application process involves getting a recommendation from a counselor or doctor, detailing how a service animal could benefit the veteran's specific needs. K9 for Warriors then carefully matches the veteran with a suitable dog based on their requirements. Tim highlights the unique story of Coop, who was previously paired with another veteran but had to be re-qualified before being matched with Tim. Tim emphasizes the extensive training the dogs undergo, including real-world exposure to different environments and situations. He describes the 21-day training camp where veterans are introduced to their service dogs and learn to work together. The transition from being alone to having a loyal companion has been life-changing for Tim, providing emotional support and reducing anxiety. Key Takeaways: K9 for Warriors rescues shelter dogs and trains them as service companions for veterans with PTSD, TBI, or MST.The application process involves getting a doctor's recommendation and detailing specific needs.Service dogs undergo extensive training, including real-world exposure and a 21-day training camp with veterans.Service dogs provide companionship, emotional support, and help veterans reintegrate into society.The transition from being alone to having a service dog has been life-changing for many veterans.Links from the show:Website: https://k9sforwarriors.org/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Gregg Lalle recently transitioned from leading the international sales teams at ConnectWise to becoming the General Manager of IT Nation. In this role, he aims to make IT Nation more inclusive by welcoming non-ConnectWise partners and vendors to the community. His focus is on growth, business efficiency, leadership development, and promoting health and well-being for managed service providers (MSPs). Gregg plans to bring a global perspective to IT Nation, drawing from his experiences working with partners in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. He wants to create a "community of communities" by collaborating with other industry groups. For upcoming IT Nation events like Connect, Gregg intends to bring in diverse speakers and experiences to excite attendees from various backgrounds. Key Takeaways: IT Nation aims to be more inclusive of non-ConnectWise vendors and partnersGrowth, business efficiency, and health/well-being are key focus areas for MSPsIT Nation is expanding globally, with strong communities in Europe, Australia, and New ZealandGregg Lalle brings a global perspective from his international sales experienceUpcoming IT Nation events will feature diverse speakers and experiences === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Andre Gilmore leads the IT Nation Evolve peer groups (formerly HTG peer groups acquired by ConnectWise in 2018) aimed at accelerating the growth of MSP partners. The peer groups are unique in their emphasis on both personal and professional development, creating an environment of closeness and trust where members can have honest discussions and "refuse to let each other fail." The groups meet quarterly for two-day in-person sessions with ample social activities to build strong relationships. Each member presents their business metrics, goals, successes, and challenges, and the group acts as a "board of directors" providing advice and accountability. A key aspect is that members define their own measures of success, which could be financial goals or personal priorities like more family time. The peer group framework includes reviewing four plans (legacy, business, life, leadership) and a member performance dashboard with benchmarking data. While a general agenda guides the meetings, facilitators have discretion to prioritize struggling members and even bring in the group for on-site support if needed. The real cost is the significant time commitment, which motivates members to maximize the value. Key Takeaways IT Nation Evolve peer groups focus on personal + professional growth through trusted relationshipsQuarterly 2-day in-person meetings with social activities to build strong bondsMembers define own success goals and hold each other accountableReview business metrics, get peer advice/board of directors perspectiveFacilitators can prioritize struggling members, even bring in on-site supportSignificant time commitment is real cost, driving engagementLinks from the ShowWebsite: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/evolve/peer-groups === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv kicks off the episode by introducing Peter Kujawa from Service Leadership, a ConnectWise company that benchmarks MSPs and other tech service providers on their financial and operational performance. Peter explains that Service Leadership has been collecting quarterly data from companies worldwide for 19 years to determine best-in-class metrics that drive success . He shares how benchmarking was a game-changer for the struggling MSP he was running, instantly revealing areas to improve like product margins. By implementing best practices, Peter turned it into a $17 million business . Uncle Marv is amazed at the level of detail in the benchmarking, with over 80 KPIs compared against the top 25% most profitable peers . Peter discusses Service Leadership's annual compensation report, providing salary data on 60 positions to help MSPs attract and retain talent . He also talks about his journey from being a lawyer to the tech world, running businesses in various industries before joining the MSP space during its early "Wild West" days . Key Takeaways: Service Leadership benchmarks MSPs worldwide on finances and operations to identify best practicesBenchmarking revealed areas to improve for Peter's former MSP, transforming it into a $17M businessThe compensation report provides detailed salary data to help MSPs with hiring and retentionPeter transitioned from law to business, running companies across multiple industries === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Hey folks, Uncle Marv here, coming to you live from IT Nation Secure in Orlando, Florida! In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Raffael Marty, or Raffy as he's known, from ConnectWise. Raffy is the Vice President of Cybersecurity and has been with ConnectWise for three years. We dive deep into the world of cybersecurity, especially focusing on the MSP space. Rafi shares his journey from enterprise security to MSPs and highlights the subtle yet significant differences between the two. We discuss the importance of seamless product integration and automation in the MSP world. Raffy explains how ConnectWise is helping MSPs not only protect their clients but also grow their businesses through their Partner Program and various marketing initiatives. We also touch on the challenges of automating security responses and the balance between reducing false positives and maintaining effective security measures. One of the most exciting parts of our conversation is about the future of cybersecurity, including the role of AI and the emerging threat of deep fakes. Rafi shares some upcoming announcements from ConnectWise, including their new Security 360 capability, which aims to provide a unified dashboard view of security data from both ConnectWise and third-party products. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the IT and cybersecurity fields. Don't miss it!Key Takeaways: Raffael Marty’s Role: Raffael Marty, Vice President of Cybersecurity at ConnectWise, shares his journey from enterprise security to the MSP world.MSP vs. Enterprise Security: Discussion on the differences and similarities between enterprise security and MSP security.Product Integration and Automation: Importance of seamless integration and automation in MSP security products.ConnectWise Partner Program: How ConnectWise supports MSPs in growing their businesses through marketing and co-selling initiatives.Security 360: Introduction of ConnectWise’s new Security 360 capability for a unified security dashboard.AI and Deep Fakes: The impact of AI on cybersecurity and the emerging threat of deep fakes.Future of Cybersecurity: Insights into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the importance of staying updated with the latest technologies. === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

The episode kicks off with Uncle Marv providing updates on his recent trip to IT Nation Secure and the new podcast sponsor, TruGrid. He then welcomes Jason and Rachel Miller to discuss what makes a successful MSP. The Millers share their experience of renovating their new office building, which was previously the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce building. They discuss the challenges they faced, including dealing with outdated features like parquet flooring and asbestos. A significant turning point for their business was the decision to shed their residential customer base and focus solely on business clients. This shift allowed them to streamline their operations and adopt a more specialized approach tailored to the needs of commercial clients. When it comes to financial management, the Millers take a pragmatic approach. While they don't strictly follow methodologies like Profit First, Rachel employs her accounting background to maintain a pulse on the business's financial health. Their focus is on retaining customers and ensuring high levels of satisfaction, rather than rigidly adhering to KPIs or billable hour targets.Key Takeaways: Transitioning from residential to business clients was a pivotal moment for the Millers' MSP.Renovating an old building presented unique challenges but allowed them to create a customized office space.Customer satisfaction and retention are prioritized over strict adherence to KPIs or billable hour targets.Rachel's accounting background plays a crucial role in the financial management of the business.Links from the show:Tennessee Man Attempts to Enroll at High School to Pursue Minor: https://tinyurl.com/3ytt3hfnNaked Florida Man Crashes into Jail: https://tinyurl.com/2jphsc5t === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv here with the scoop from the SuperOps Super Summit. This was a tweener episode, recorded between conferences to give you the inside scoop. First up, I caught up with Arvind, the big boss at SuperOps. He filled me in on the Summit being their 7th event, with a focus on MSP education and networking rather than sales pitches. Arvind shared how SuperOps has grown from an unknown to a recognized brand in the last 18 months, thanks to their great product and making themselves available to the MSP community. Next, I grabbed Damo, the VP of Products. This guy has been building enterprise software for 20 years, but he really digs working on products that contribute to real people's growth and success. Damo encouraged listeners to join the SuperOps community to experience the full value beyond just the product. Then I had a chat with Chris Cool, who recently joined SuperOps after being impressed by their technology and people. Chris shared his journey from the copier world to IT consulting, initially outsourcing everything before deciding to bring it all under one roof with SuperOps. Finally, I connected with Juan Fernandez, the SuperOps Channel Chief. Unfortunately, you'll have to wait for that interview in the next episode!Key TakeawaysSuperOps focuses on providing an exceptional experience for MSPs, not just a productTheir events prioritize MSP education and networking over sales pitchesThe company has grown rapidly by making themselves available to the MSP communityNew customers like Chris Cool are drawn by SuperOps' technology and peopleLinks from the Show:Super Summit Website: https://supersummit.com/The MSP Owner's Handbook: https://amzn.to/4c4rnSaLead It Like Lasso: https://amzn.to/3KmUbtcThe Pumpkin Plan for Managed Service Providers: https://amzn.to/3R5L57V === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

ASCII was founded in the early 1980s when Alan Weinberger recognized that independent computer dealers and service providers were the smartest people in the industry, acting as trusted advisors to clients. Over 40 years later, that core vision remains - ASCII elevates managed service providers (MSPs) by leveraging the collective power of over 1,300 members and 10,000 employees across North America. The community provides immense value through group purchasing discounts, educational resources, networking opportunities, and the ability to subcontract work across geographies. Members drive new programs and initiatives through the advisory board, such as the popular SPARC peer groups where MSPs openly discuss business challenges. Looking ahead, ASCII is enhancing its global presence with instant translation capabilities, allowing members worldwide to collaborate seamlessly. The fundamental mission endures - empowering independent IT businesses by giving them a powerful collective voice while remaining vendor-neutral.Key TakeawaysASCII celebrates 40 years as the oldest, largest independent IT communityProvides collective bargaining power, education, and networking for MSPsMembers drive new programs through advisory board and peer groupsExpanding global reach with instant translation for international collaborationRemains vendor-neutral, elevating independent IT businesses as trusted advisorsAlan Weinberger: Founder, CEO and Chairman of The ASCII Group Inc. - https://www.ascii.com/Proud of the personal relationships and trust built between ASCII members over 40 yearsSees ASCII's bottom-up approach, driven by member ideas through the advisory board, as a key differentiator from vendorsPlans to enhance global presence with instant translation for international collaborationUses analogies to elevate the importance of MSPs, drawing parallels to doctors, pilots, etc.Believes the public undervalues MSPs compared to regulated professions like medicineAlysia Vetter: Vice President of Marketing at The ASCII Group Inc.Proud of the nurturing environment and team assembled by Alan at ASCIIAppreciates having full access to membership to understand their pain pointsHighlights Alan's role in creating a "beautiful community" for members and staff over 4 decadesDavid Stinner: Founder & President at US itek, MSP Workforce - https://www.usitek.com/Sits on the ASCII advisory board to provide input on new programs, vendors, and educational topicsInvolved in launching the ASCII SPARC peer group program, which allows MSPs to openly discuss business challengesLeveraged relationships built through ASCII to get a major client opportunity by gathering video testimonialsValues the relationships and trust factor within the ASCII community === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Revisiting Strategic Marketing PlanningWe kick things off by revisiting the concept of having a strategic marketing plan before executing tactics. Tim explains that most businesses get the sequencing wrong - you need to define your target market and ideal clients first, then identify where they are and what messaging will resonate with them. This "fuel" informs the marketing "vehicles" or tactics you'll use. Tim outlines his three power questions to identify ideal clients: who do you love working with, who are your most profitable clients (based on gross profit, not just revenue), and which clients are you getting the best results for? Clients that check all three boxes are your sweet spot to target.Defining Your Target MarketFrom there, Tim walks through a process for defining your target market: Analyze the demographics of your ideal clients - industries, roles/titles, company sizes, etc.Dig into the psychographics - their pain points, goals, aspirations, and the results they want.Evaluate if the market is viable by looking at size, buying power, accessibility, and growth potential.As you go through this exercise, smaller sub-groups or niches will emerge that you can focus your marketing efforts on more effectively.Researching Where Your Ideal Clients CongregateThe final piece is understanding where your ideal clients get information and spend time online/offline. Tim recommends using AI tools like Perplexity to research things like: Influencers they followYouTube channels they watchPodcasts they listen toSocial media groups they're inForums and online communitiesEmail lists they subscribe toAssociations, trade shows, and events they attendThis creates a roadmap of all the places you can get in front of your target audience through marketing activities and strategic partnerships. Key Takeaways: Define your ideal clients before executing marketing tacticsAsk: Who do you love working with, who's most profitable, and who get the best results for?Analyze demographics, psychographics, and market viability to identify your targetUse AI to research where your ideal clients congregate online and offlineFocus your marketing efforts on the channels/platforms your target audience usesLinks from the show:Rialto Marketing website: https://www.rialtomarketing.com/AI-powered conversational search engine: https://www.perplexity.ai/81-Year-Old California Man was a slingshot terrorist for 10 years: https://tinyurl.com/yc2yj249Florida Woman jumps from Naples pier after sex to escape police: https://tinyurl.com/bdzazuswFlorida Mom Offers man sex with her 10-year-old daughter for $5: https://tinyurl.com/2ambnhswFlorida Man Goes Viral on Wheel of Fortune: https://tinyurl.com/yrucnve6 === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Catching Up with Rob RaeRob reflects on his first year at Pax8, describing the experience as intense but rewarding. He's impressed by the company's commitment to the MSP channel and the executive team's vision. Pax8 has rapidly expanded to 39 countries with 5,000 partners, giving Rob opportunities to visit places like Lithuania and witness the global MSP community firsthand.Pax8 Beyond 2024 Preview The upcoming Pax8 Beyond conference (June 9-11 in Denver) promises new innovations, education tracks for different MSP roles, and community networking. Rob emphasizes the value of vendor user conferences for MSPs to see where their investments are going and ensure alignment with the vendor's roadmap.The conference will feature five persona-based tracks, including a business growth track. While some attendees may take breaks, Rob aims to deliver compelling content that attracts engagement. He's excited to have new CEO Scott Massey, a tech-focused leader, involved in shaping the product roadmap and support experience.Pax8's Global Footprint and FutureIn October 2024, Pax8 will host its first European user conference in Berlin, designed to provide equal value to MSPs worldwide. As Pax8 continues its rapid international expansion, Rob is enthusiastic about the global MSP community's growth potential.Key Takeaways:Pax8 is rapidly expanding globally, now with 5,000 partners in 39 countriesThe Pax8 Beyond 2024 conference will feature new innovations, education tracks, and networking opportunitiesVendor user conferences allow MSPs to validate their investments and align with the vendor's roadmapPax8 will host its first European user conference in Berlin in October 2024The company's tech-focused leadership aims to deliver strong products and support for MSPs worldwideLinks from the show: Pax8 Beyond 2024: https://www.pax8beyond.com === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

N-able RMM RantFor two straight days, my RMM provider N-Able has been experiencing an SSO issue, preventing me from logging in or properly accessing client devices and endpoints. While I had alternate methods to connect with clients, it was still incredibly frustrating, especially for those who solely rely on the RMM for remote support. I empathize with those who were unable to work due to this issue. Every vendor experiences problems, but it's crucial how they respond and resolve it. I'm not happy it's gone unresolved for two days, but we'll see what happens tomorrow.Health and Wellness in the Tech Industry Ron attended the MSP Geek conference, which had a refreshing focus on health and wellness for those in the tech industry. Sessions covered topics like meditation, mindfulness, and avoiding burnout – aspects often overlooked in our field. It's an important discussion as we tend to neglect our well-being. Upcoming Hire and Cybersecurity FocusRon is excited to welcome a new team member starting on June 3rd after her month-long break. She'll be focusing on cybersecurity, having studied business with a cybersecurity concentration. It'll be great to have that expertise on board, especially as clients increasingly prioritize cybersecurity.Key TakeawaysHave backup remote access methods for clients beyond your primary RMMThe tech industry needs to prioritize mental and physical health Cybersecurity is becoming a crucial focus for MSPsLinks from the showFlorida Man Documents History of Landmark Computers: https://tinyurl.com/3rzdj4zyFlorida Man Sues Apple for Culture of Dumpster Diving: https://tinyurl.com/5ecyevf7Florida Kid Called 911 over PlayStation Outage: https://tinyurl.com/37ubvs8uFlorida Man buys $140,000 Porsche with Check Printed at Home: https://tinyurl.com/5x9pdpydFlorida Man Arrested in $800,000 Cryptocurrency Theft Scheme: https://tinyurl.com/4hab9my2 === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Nadir explains that his primary focus is understanding customer needs and ensuring that Kaseya's product roadmaps address those needs. He emphasizes the importance of building a cohesive ecosystem where different modules work together seamlessly. One of Nadir's key initiatives is the IT Glue Copilot, which leverages AI to automate documentation management tasks. This includes creating, curating, and making documentation more accessible to users. The Copilot suggests related items based on machine learning algorithms trained on individual customer data. Nadir stresses that Kaseya is taking a judicious approach to AI integration, focusing on delivering tangible outcomes rather than simply slapping an "AI" label on existing features. He highlights the importance of building a culture around documentation within organizations. Key Takeaways:Kaseya is integrating AI to enhance documentation management and accessibility.The IT Glue Copilot suggests related items based on machine learning algorithms.Kaseya's approach to AI is focused on delivering tangible outcomes for customers.Building a culture around documentation is crucial for effective knowledge sharing.Links from the show:IT Glue Copilot: https://www.itglue.com/copilot/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Marv explains that Kaseya had been inviting him to visit their offices for several months, and he finally accepted their invitation. He clarifies that he was not acquired by Kaseya and that his MSP business and podcast will continue as usual. During the visit, Marv had open and honest discussions with Kaseya representatives. He expressed his experiences with their products and acknowledged both positive and negative feedback from the community. Kaseya provided presentations on their IT Complete platform, security solutions, and network management offerings. Marv highlights Kaseya's recent pricing announcement for Kaseya 365, which he believes makes their platform accessible to smaller MSPs and solo practitioners. He also mentions changes to pricing for their networking products and a new VPN solution. Key Takeaways: Marv was not acquired by Kaseya, and his business operations remain unchanged.Kaseya's new pricing model aims to attract smaller MSPs and solo practitioners.Kaseya provided updates on their IT Complete platform, security solutions, and network management offerings.Marv had open discussions with Kaseya representatives about their products and community feedback.Links from the show: Kaseya website: https://www.kaseya.com/Kaseya 365, Revolutionary New Offering: https://tinyurl.com/54v929yp === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Cable Testing Tools RantUncle Marv expresses his frustration with a managed service provider who used a basic continuity tester for cable runs, leading to connectivity issues. He emphasizes the need for proper cable testing and certification tools, especially for companies offering cabling services. Cutting corners and using inadequate tools reflects poorly on the industry and can lead to subpar work.Time is a Precious ResourceJuan Fernandez shares his perspective on treating time as a valuable currency rather than a freely available resource. He stresses the importance of quantifying time appropriately and avoiding wasting it on unprofitable endeavors. Juan explains how he built his MSP with a focus on maximizing productivity and profitability, even during activities like attending events or taking lunch breaks.Firing Problematic ClientsUncle Marv and Juan discuss the difficult decision of firing problematic clients, even if they contribute a significant portion of revenue. Uncle Marv shares his experience of letting go of his largest client in 2017 because they consumed over 50% of his time despite accounting for only a third of the revenue. This decision was influenced by the principles outlined in the book "The Millionaire Next Door."Key Takeaways:Invest in proper cable testing and certification tools for quality work.Treat time as a valuable currency and avoid wasting it on unprofitable activities.Be willing to fire problematic clients that consume disproportionate time and resources.Adopt a mindset shift towards solving problems independently and seeking education, not resolutions.Links from the show:The Millionaire Next Door: https://amzn.to/3UM0F9EFlorida Man bites chunk out of deputy's head: https://tinyurl.com/yc6cshah === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Paul identifies two major mistakes: not doing enough marketing and doing it sporadically. He explains that many MSPs start as technicians who get an "entrepreneurial seizure" and launch their own business, but eventually struggle when referrals dry up and they need to market themselves. The second mistake is running one-off campaigns that fail to generate results, leading MSPs to conclude marketing doesn't work.Paul emphasizes the importance of having a consistent, long-term marketing system rather than sporadic campaigns. He recommends doing marketing activities daily, weekly, and monthly to build momentum and stay top-of-mind with potential clients who may switch MSPs every five years. He also suggests differentiating your marketing by focusing on personal branding and leveraging your unique identity, as he has done successfully with his own business.Paul shares his journey from starting a marketing agency in 2005 to eventually specializing in the MSP space after selling his previous business. He expresses his passion for the ever-evolving MSP industry and his commitment to helping MSPs grow through effective marketing strategies.Key Takeaways:MSPs often neglect marketing due to their technical background and the initial success of referrals. However, marketing becomes crucial as referrals dry up.One-off marketing campaigns are ineffective because selling managed services requires reaching prospects repeatedly over time until they're ready to switch providers.Successful marketing involves creating a system that consistently educates and engages potential clients through various channels like email, social media, and direct mail.Personal branding and differentiating your messaging from competitors is crucial for standing out in a crowded market.Leveraging AI and emerging technologies presents exciting opportunities for innovative marketing strategiesLinks from the show:MSP Marketing Edge: https://www.mspmarketingedge.com/YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/MSPMarketingFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mspmarketing === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Brook explains that the Director of Channel Development position at ScalePad was an opportunity she couldn't turn down, given the company's leadership, platform, and team. She is excited to work under Eric Torres, VP of Channel, and Luis, Chief Experience Officer, and learn from their expertise in the industry. Her role involves being Torres' right hand, assisting with reporting, analytics, community, and RevOps projects. Brook highlights ScalePad's diverse product offerings, including Lifecycle Insights, Lifecycle Manager, Cognition, Control Map, Backup Radar, and the recently acquired Quoter quoting software. She sees this as a chance to help MSPs of all sizes and maturity levels with a comprehensive suite of solutions. Brook also appreciates ScalePad's inclusive culture, with women in prominent leadership roles. ScalePad is a leading software platform that helps businesses streamline and automate their financial processes. With ScalePad, companies can easily manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, expense reporting, and other financial workflows. The cloud-based solution provides robust features like intelligent data capture, approval routing, real-time reporting, and seamless integration with popular accounting software. By leveraging ScalePad, organizations can significantly reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, enhance visibility into financial data, and ultimately drive operational efficiency across their finance teams. As a trusted partner to businesses of all sizes, ScalePad empowers companies to scale their financial operations with confidence.Key Takeaways: Brook Lee joined ScalePad as the Director of Channel, leaving her previous role at PIA.She is excited to work under Eric Torres and Luis, and learn from their industry expertise.Her responsibilities include assisting with reporting, analytics, community, RevOps projects, and events.ScalePad's diverse product offerings cater to MSPs of all sizes and maturity levels.Brook values ScalePad's inclusive culture with women in leadership positions.Links from the show:Website: https://www.scalepad.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Uncle Marv and Bradley Gross begin by discussing a recent lawsuit where an MSP was sued by a law firm client for $1 million due to a breach. They note that while the initial news generated a lot of attention, the case has since gone quiet, with no further updates on the court proceedings. Gross suggests that this is likely due to the parties engaging in behind-the-scenes negotiations, as the lack of a formal response from the defendants is unusual. The conversation then shifts to the importance of having well-crafted legal agreements, particularly when it comes to cybersecurity services. Gross emphasizes that oral agreements are simply not worth the risk, as they create ambiguity and make it difficult to determine the true scope of the arrangement. He advises MSPs to stop relying on verbal agreements and instead ensure that all responsibilities and expectations are clearly documented. Marv then shares his own personal experience with a former client who had returned to his services, but without a formal agreement in place. This led to a situation where the client suffered a ransomware attack, and Marv found himself in a difficult position without a clear contractual framework. The lesson learned is that MSPs must be proactive in getting agreements signed before engaging in any work, even with existing clients. Key Takeaways: Oral agreements are risky and can lead to costly legal disputesCybersecurity services should always be covered by a written contractMSPs must be diligent in getting agreements signed before starting work, even with existing clientsLawsuits involving MSPs can generate significant attention, but the resolution may happen quietly behind the scenesLink from the show: It's Florida Man Showtime: https://tinyurl.com/46ts8uscSarah Hester Ross: https://tinyurl.com/427nz3arIT Business Podcast: Fiduciary Duty with Brad: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/390Coming Soon: https://mspterms.com/The Technology Bradcast: https://bradleygross.podbean.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Taher shares that one of the biggest mistakes MSPs make is trying to skip straight to lead generation without first building a strong inbound marketing foundation. He emphasizes that having a professional, conversion-optimized website, active social media presence, and personal branding are crucial for making a great first impression on potential clients. Taher explains that MSPs often make the mistake of relying too heavily on referrals while neglecting their online presence, which can severely limit their growth potential. He stresses the importance of writing website copy and content that reflects the MSP's unique voice and value proposition, rather than generic marketing language. Taher also recommends using low-threshold lead magnets like live chat and educational eBooks to capture leads, in addition to building an email list through networking and in-person events. While inbound marketing is important, Taher notes that it has its limits, so MSPs should also incorporate outbound tactics like LinkedIn automation and lead magnets to supercharge their lead generation efforts.Key Takeaways: Build a strong inbound marketing foundation before focusing on outbound tacticsInvest time and effort into a professional, conversion-optimized websiteLeverage personal branding and unique voice in content creationUse low-threshold lead magnets to capture leadsCombine inbound and outbound strategies for maximum impactLinks from the show:MSP Camp website: https://msp-camp.com/Use discount code "GiveMe20" for a special dealPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-fluff-msp-marketing/id1642373577 === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

Matt Rodela, Chief Executive Officer of Tech Marketing Engine, joins me today to discuss the common mistakes he sees MSPs making with their marketing and how to address them. The biggest mistake Matt sees is a lack of a coherent marketing plan - MSPs often try to do everything from SEO to social media without thinking about how it fits into their broader business goals. Instead, Matt recommends looking at what your competitors are not doing and focusing on dominating one or two key marketing channels before expanding. Matt also shares how Tech Marketing Engine has grown from a simple website builder into a full-service marketing agency for IT businesses. In addition to websites, they now offer services like WordPress consulting, SEO, content creation, newsletters, and even PPC advertising. The key, says Matt, is providing customized solutions at every level - whether a business has a $20/month budget or thousands to spend, Tech Marketing Engine can create a personalized marketing plan to help them grow. When it comes to content creation, Matt's team writes everything from scratch rather than using syndicated or AI-generated content. This allows them to deeply personalize blog posts and newsletters to each client's specific audience and tone. Matt emphasizes the importance of vetting any AI-generated content to ensure accuracy, as well as adding the extra touches like formatting, images, and links that make content truly valuable. Key Takeaways: Lack of a coherent marketing plan is the biggest mistake MSPs makeFocus on dominating 1-2 marketing channels where competitors are lackingTech Marketing Engine offers customized marketing solutions at all budget levelsPersonalized, from-scratch content creation is a key differentiatorLinks from the show:Affordable Marketing Solutions: https://www.techmarketingengine.com/Get a clean and professional website: https://techsitebuilder.com/ === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

We start by discussing Parallels' core product, which still enables running Windows on Mac, but has expanded to support a variety of operating systems and use cases. Chris explains that Parallels is now part of the Alludo group, which also owns other well-known software brands like WinZip, MindManager, and Corel. The conversation then shifts to Parallels' remote application server (RAS) and desktop as a service (DaaS) offerings. RAS allows organizations to deliver virtualized applications and desktops to a wide range of devices, including mobile and web-based clients. It offers integration with various cloud providers and on-premises hypervisors, giving customers flexibility and choice. Meanwhile, DaaS is a cloud-hosted solution designed for simplicity, making it easier for organizations to transition to a hybrid work model without the need for extensive IT expertise. Chris also discusses the security features of Parallels' solutions, including built-in multi-factor authentication options and the ability to integrate with external identity providers. He explains how Parallels' products can be white-labeled and customized for managed service providers, allowing them to offer tailored solutions to their clients. The conversation also covers the technical aspects of Parallels' multi-tenancy capabilities, site and theme management, and the role of the tenant broker for larger deployments. Key Takeaways:Parallels has evolved beyond just running Windows on Mac, now offering remote application server (RAS) and desktop as a service (DaaS) solutionsParallels RAS provides flexibility by integrating with various cloud and on-premises providers, allowing organizations to deliver virtualized apps and desktopsParallels DaaS is a cloud-hosted solution designed for simplicity, helping organizations transition to hybrid work modelsParallels' solutions offer security features like built-in multi-factor authentication and integration with external identity providersManaged service providers can white-label and customize Parallels' offerings, including the ability to manage multiple tenants and themesLinks from the show:Website: https://www.parallels.com/Parallels on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@parallels === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.