In this edition of the Coffee with Craig and James podcast, we get the inside scoop from the guys at techology advisor ARG.ARG chief revenue officer Mike Shonholz and chief engagement officer Steve Kopp have seen a lot in their years of experience in the industry. That background has been key to pulling off some very successful acquisitions over the years.Craig and James sat these gents down for an ARG perspective not only on M&amp;A, but also the company's overall inorganic growth strategy, what its "IT Clarity" branding is all about, and to get some general advice for some their peers in the channel.Moreover, we'll offer up our first official preview of this fall's Channel Futures Leadership Summit, which in addition to being home to the MSP Summit and Women's Leadership Summit, will take an extensive look at marketplaces and how they're impacting the channel.All that, plus James gets a little revenge on Craig for his little "easter egg" stunt around numbers on the last podcast. It's the return of Channel Mad Libs!

In this edition of the Coffee with Craig and James podcast, we get the inside scoop from the guys at techology advisor ARG. ARG chief revenue officer Mike Shonholz and chief engagement officer Steve Kopp have seen a lot in their years of experience in the industry. That background has been key to pulling off some very successful acquisitions over the years. Craig and James sat these gents down for an ARG perspective not only on M&amp;A, but also the company's overall inorganic growth strategy, what its "IT Clarity" branding is all about, and to get some general advice for some their peers in the channel. Moreover, we'll offer up our first official preview of this fall's Channel Futures Leadership Summit, which in addition to being home to the MSP Summit and Women's Leadership Summit, will take an extensive look at marketplaces and how they're impacting the channel. All that, plus James gets a little revenge on Craig for his little "easter egg" stunt around numbers on the last podcast. It's the return of Channel Mad Libs!

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 126: ARG

Craig Schlagbaum

Craig Schlagbaum might very well be, as James puts it, the "O.G." of the channel. As senior vice president at Comcast Business/Masergy, he's one of the longest tenured channel executives. You could almost say he "grew up" in the channel.So we thought it would be great to pick his brain on topics ranging from his longevity, to relationships with technology service providers and much more.Furthermore, with the next Channel Partners event, the Channel Futures Leadership Summit, still nearly four months away, Craig and James thought it was a perfect time to highlight some of the things you might've missed on our media platform, Channel Futures.All of that, plus Craig once again tries to prove his manhood by humiliating James in a round of trivia, this time focused on, as an homage to our guest, cable TV.

Craig Schlagbaum might very well be, as James puts it, the "O.G." of the channel. As senior vice president at Comcast Business/Masergy, he's one of the longest tenured channel executives. You could almost say he "grew up" in the channel. So we thought it would be great to pick his brain on topics ranging from his longevity, to relationships with technology service providers and much more. Furthermore, with the next Channel Partners event, the Channel Futures Leadership Summit, still nearly four months away, Craig and James thought it was a perfect time to highlight some of the things you might've missed on our media platform, Channel Futures. All of that, plus Craig once again tries to prove his manhood by humiliating James in a round of trivia, this time focused on, as an homage to our guest, cable TV.

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 125: Comcast Business' Craig Schlagbaum

The Channel Futures podcast duo is back after a brief hiatus due to travel, and they're welcoming Palo Alto Networks into the coffee house.Channel leader Tom Evans joins the conversation to discuss the latest cybersecurity threats, updates for Palo Alto partners and predictions for the future.Craig and James also get you caught up on final numbers from the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, as well as their trip to London representing Channel Futures at the annual Informa Awards.Don't forget that you can watch this podcast. The video is here: https://www.channelfutures.com/podcasts/coffee-with-craig-and-james-episode-124-palo-alto-networks

The Channel Futures podcast duo is back after a brief hiatus due to travel, and they're welcoming Palo Alto Networks into the coffee house. Channel leader Tom Evans joins the conversation to discuss the latest cybersecurity threats, updates for Palo Alto partners and predictions for the future. Craig and James also get you caught up on final numbers from the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, as well as their trip to London representing Channel Futures at the annual Informa Awards. Don't forget that you can watch this podcast. The video is here: <a href="https://www.channelfutures.com/podcasts/coffee-with-craig-and-james-episode-124-palo-alto-networks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.channelfutures.com/podcasts/coffee-with-craig-and-james-episode-124-palo-alto-networks</a>

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 124: Palo Alto Networks

MartinWolf M&amp;A Advisors founder Marty Wolf joins Craig and James this week on the popular Channel Futures podcast.Wolf offers an overview of the M&amp;A landscape and delivers practical advice for any partner business considering selling or taking private investment. It also serves as a preview for some keynote and conference sessions that focus on mergers and acquisitions at the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas, May 1-4.Speaking of CP Expo, Craig and James will do a final breakdown to get you ready. It's not too late to register!: https://channel.informatech.com/lv/2023/registrations/Attendee

MartinWolf M&amp;A Advisors founder Marty Wolf joins Craig and James this week on the popular Channel Futures podcast. Wolf offers an overview of the M&amp;A landscape and delivers practical advice for any partner business considering selling or taking private investment. It also serves as a preview for some keynote and conference sessions that focus on mergers and acquisitions at the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas, May 1-4. Speaking of CP Expo, Craig and James will do a final breakdown to get you ready. It's not too late to register!: <a href="https://channel.informatech.com/lv/2023/registrations/Attendee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://channel.informatech.com/lv/2023/registrations/Attendee</a>

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 123: MartinWolf M&A Advisors, CP Expo Preview

It's MSP 501 season. The final day to apply for the biggest and best awards program in the channel is April 30. With that rapidly approaching deadline in mind, we decided to dedicate this podcast to the Channel Futures MSP 501.First, we welcome in Ginette Andre, senior marketing associate for Channel Futures and VIP liaison for the MSP 501. Ginette offers up some frequently asked questions for candidates who are applying for the list.Then comes the team from Ingram Micro, sponsor and longtime supporter of the 501. The distributor's execs discuss the value of landing on the list. They also cover some important managed service provider trends for 2023.Also, it wouldn't be an episode of the podcast without talk of the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo. James tells us about two of the sessions he'll be hosting and why you should be there.Finally, what's in a name? A common email mistake that flusters some of our colleagues.Apply for the 2023 Channel Futures MSP 501 here: https://channelfutures.tradepub.com/free/w_chag101/prgm.cgi?a=1

It's MSP 501 season. The final day to apply for the biggest and best awards program in the channel is April 30. With that rapidly approaching deadline in mind, we decided to dedicate this podcast to the Channel Futures MSP 501. First, we welcome in Ginette Andre, senior marketing associate for Channel Futures and VIP liaison for the MSP 501. Ginette offers up some frequently asked questions for candidates who are applying for the list. Then comes the team from Ingram Micro, sponsor and longtime supporter of the 501. The distributor's execs discuss the value of landing on the list. They also cover some important managed service provider trends for 2023. Also, it wouldn't be an episode of the podcast without talk of the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo. James tells us about two of the sessions he'll be hosting and why you should be there. Finally, what's in a name? A common email mistake that flusters some of our colleagues. Apply for the 2023 Channel Futures MSP 501 here: <a href="https://channelfutures.tradepub.com/free/w_chag101/prgm.cgi?a=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://channelfutures.tradepub.com/free/w_chag101/prgm.cgi?a=1</a>

Coffee with Craig & James Episode 122: Ingram Micro, MSP 501 Special Edition

The Channel Futures podcast this week welcomes in Phil Soper, North America head of channel sales at Hewlett Packard Enterprise. He gets us caught up on the HPE Partner Ready Vantage program and the company's as-a-service efforts.Craig and James also cover the networking opportunities not to miss at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo. The big show is less than six weeks away — here's where you can register: https://channel.informatech.com/lv/2023/registrations/Attendee

The Channel Futures podcast this week welcomes in Phil Soper, North America head of channel sales at Hewlett Packard Enterprise. He gets us caught up on the HPE Partner Ready Vantage program and the company's as-a-service efforts. Craig and James also cover the networking opportunities not to miss at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo. The big show is less than six weeks away — here's where you can register: <a href="https://channel.informatech.com/lv/2023/registrations/Attendee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://channel.informatech.com/lv/2023/registrations/Attendee</a>

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 121: Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Ronnell Richards

The Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo is less than two months away and Craig and James are all over it. In this episode of the podcast, you'll learn about more incredible keynotes slated for the event. CP Expo is May 1-4, at the Venetian in Las Vegas.And for a guest, we have a special treat. Ronnell Richards, sales consultant extraordinaire to the channel, joins the guys for a conversation. They touch on sales tips, relationships between partners and TSDs/vendors, and much more.The news discussion of the day will center around a couple of things. First, James talks about an acquisition by HPE that could have significant channel implications. 5G, once overhyped, might be making another run at celebrity status.Also, our Channel Futures' Channel Influencers for 2023. The list is out, and features a lot of names in the channel who are having a big impact. The guys will explain how the team came up with this year's honorees.

The Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo is less than two months away and Craig and James are all over it. In this episode of the podcast, you'll learn about more incredible keynotes slated for the event. CP Expo is May 1-4, at the Venetian in Las Vegas. And for a guest, we have a special treat. Ronnell Richards, sales consultant extraordinaire to the channel, joins the guys for a conversation. They touch on sales tips, relationships between partners and TSDs/vendors, and much more. The news discussion of the day will center around a couple of things. First, James talks about an acquisition by HPE that could have significant channel implications. 5G, once overhyped, might be making another run at celebrity status. Also, our Channel Futures' Channel Influencers for 2023. The list is out, and features a lot of names in the channel who are having a big impact. The guys will explain how the team came up with this year's honorees.

Coffee with Craig & James Episode 120: Ronnell Richards

A best-kept secret no more, the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW) plays a huge role in our industry. The organization promotes both established and up-and-coming channel sales professionals, including the camaraderie and mentorship to elevate their careers in what's traditionally been a male-dominated field.ACW is kicking off a spring membership drive, so it's a great time for Craig and James to learn more about the group. The guys welcome ACW board member Kelly Danziger to the show. (Her day job is Craig and James' boss as general manager of Informa Tech Channels, Channel Futures' parent organization.)The guys also discuss some of the big keynotes at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo.Furthermore,  we've got fun with technology trivia and a test of ChatGPT technology.

A best-kept secret no more, the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW) plays a huge role in our industry. The organization promotes both established and up-and-coming channel sales professionals, including the camaraderie and mentorship to elevate their careers in what's traditionally been a male-dominated field. ACW is kicking off a spring membership drive, so it's a great time for Craig and James to learn more about the group. The guys welcome ACW board member Kelly Danziger to the show. (Her day job is Craig and James' boss as general manager of Informa Tech Channels, Channel Futures' parent organization.) The guys also discuss some of the big keynotes at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo. Furthermore, we've got fun with technology trivia and a test of ChatGPT technology.

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 119: Alliance of Channel Women

Coffee with Craig and James, the Channel Futures podcast, welcomes Scott Kinka, chief strategy officer with Bridgepointe Technologies. Bridgepointe is truly one of the hottest companies in the channel, growing both organically and inorganically, via acquisition.The guys also give you your first taste of the keynotes and conference sessions at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, May 1-4. We told you last time about keynote speaker Capt. Scott Kelly, but that's far from all. From a guy who lived in a van to a NASCAR driver, there's some really cool content on tap. We talk about it in this podcast. And that's just scratching the surface.Craig and James also will discuss the news of the week, including the staggering number of layoffs impacting the channel. Communications platform as a service (CPaaS) is also a topic, as Channel Futures introduces a new video segment.If you want to see us on video, head over to Channel Futures: https://www.channelfutures.com/podcasts/coffee-with-craig-james-episode-118-bridgepointe-technologies

Coffee with Craig and James, the Channel Futures podcast, welcomes Scott Kinka, chief strategy officer with Bridgepointe Technologies. Bridgepointe is truly one of the hottest companies in the channel, growing both organically and inorganically, via acquisition. The guys also give you your first taste of the keynotes and conference sessions at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, May 1-4. We told you last time about keynote speaker Capt. Scott Kelly, but that's far from all. From a guy who lived in a van to a NASCAR driver, there's some really cool content on tap. We talk about it in this podcast. And that's just scratching the surface. Craig and James also will discuss the news of the week, including the staggering number of layoffs impacting the channel. Communications platform as a service (CPaaS) is also a topic, as Channel Futures introduces a new video segment. If you want to see us on video, head over to Channel Futures: <a href="https://www.channelfutures.com/podcasts/coffee-with-craig-james-episode-118-bridgepointe-technologies" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.channelfutures.com/podcasts/coffee-with-craig-james-episode-118-bridgepointe-technologies</a>

Coffee with Craig & James Episode 118: Bridgepointe Technologies

It only took 117 episodes of the Channel Futures podcast for Craig and James to make their video debut together.In this premiere Channel Futures TV episode of Coffee with Craig and James, we welcome Cato Networks leader Frank Rauch. He was one of the biggest newsmakers of the past week, just joining the SASE provider on Jan. 10.The guys also give you a sneak preview of the keynote retired astronaut Capt. Scott Kelly will deliver at the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, May 1-4, at the Venetian in Las Vegas.All that, plus a recap of some of the biggest news so far this month.

It only took 117 episodes of the Channel Futures podcast for Craig and James to make their video debut together. In this premiere Channel Futures TV episode of Coffee with Craig and James, we welcome Cato Networks leader Frank Rauch. He was one of the biggest newsmakers of the past week, just joining the SASE provider on Jan. 10. The guys also give you a sneak preview of the keynote retired astronaut Capt. Scott Kelly will deliver at the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, May 1-4, at the Venetian in Las Vegas. All that, plus a recap of some of the biggest news so far this month.

Coffee with Craig and James Episode 117: Cato Networks, Video Killed the Podcast Star

Channel Futures is a leading source of analysis, commentary, research, market insight, information and news in the technology and telecommunications space. The Coffee with Craig and James podcast features interviews with big names in the indirect sales channel, along with a unique brand of humor thrown in.

Mike provided a great overview; definitely stopping by the booth.

Stellar

Perfect blend of humor and knowledge transfer! Keep up the great work!!

These guys

Coffee with Craig and James

Kevin Episode

Rob Rae

In this edition of the Channel Partners podcast, Craig and Kevin welcome Rob Rae, vice president of business development at Datto.Rae breaks down his company's recently completed DattoCon event, answers partners' questions about Datto's merger with Autotask and talks about the growing importance of cybersecurity for MSP businesses.Also on the show is Ed Basart, chief strategist for InSpeed Networks. Basart takes us on a ride through telecom history, describing how he came to found ShoreTel and, more recently, InSpeed. You'll learn about the unique opportunities you'll have at the company's booth at the upcoming Channel Partners Evolution.All that, plus Kevin lives out his dream of anchoring the evening news!

In this edition of the Channel Partners podcast, Craig and Kevin welcome Rob Rae, vice president of business development at Datto. Rae breaks down his company's recently completed DattoCon event, answers partners' questions about Datto's merger with Autotask and talks about the growing importance of cybersecurity for MSP businesses. Also on the show is Ed Basart, chief strategist for InSpeed Networks. Basart takes us on a ride through telecom history, describing how he came to found ShoreTel and, more recently, InSpeed. You'll learn about the unique opportunities you'll have at the company's booth at the upcoming Channel Partners Evolution. All that, plus Kevin lives out his dream of anchoring the evening news!

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 41: Datto's Rob Rae, InSpeed Networks

In their final podcast of 2017, the guys welcome Hartland Ross, founder and president of eBridge Marketing Solutions and The Host Broker, for some insight on the greatest marketing challenges facing IT businesses today. He also offers tips on building a recurring revenue stream.But that's not all. Kevin is visited by the Ghosts of Channel Past, Present and Yet to Come in what turns out to be an entertaining lesson for partners, much like how Scrooge learned in the old Dickens tale.Think we're through? No way. The guys offer up the top five channel buzzwords of 2017.

In their final podcast of 2017, the guys welcome Hartland Ross, founder and president of eBridge Marketing Solutions and The Host Broker, for some insight on the greatest marketing challenges facing IT businesses today. He also offers tips on building a recurring revenue stream. But that's not all. Kevin is visited by the Ghosts of Channel Past, Present and Yet to Come in what turns out to be an entertaining lesson for partners, much like how Scrooge learned in the old Dickens tale. Think we're through? No way. The guys offer up the top five channel buzzwords of 2017.

Coffee with Craig & Kevin: IT Marketing and 'A Channel Carol'

Craig and Kevin are coming down off the high from Valentine's Day in their latest podcast.Love is in the air when Jim Vicatos, national director of sales at Choice Business Connections, joins the show. In addition to telling us where to find the best bagels and pizza on Long Island, Jim talks about his company's important relationship with T-Mobile, partner opportunities in IoT and how Choice's CAMP program is saving customers money.The guys also feel the love from Rick Beckers, who's not only a member of the Channel Partners Advisory Board, but also the head of a new company that's bringing a new approach in digital distribution to the channel."It's an evolution and a collision of everything that's going on in the world as it pertains to what everyone has hung "industry 4.0" on ... our channel vendors and agents and partners are selling technology things. ... The digital transformation has turned everything from what used to be an on-premises world to a hybrid world, and you'd now be hard-pressed to find a technology offering that, if it already isn't subscription-based, the vendors selling those things are already working on how to make their wares subscription-based. XaaS1 ... is evolving the channel ... [creating] a digital distribution layer ... making the channel easier in general with a single-sign-on platform."All that and more, including a preview of the Business Success Symposium at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo and all of the "great ideas" that haven't quite made the cut for our shows over the past several years.

Craig and Kevin are coming down off the high from Valentine's Day in their latest podcast. Love is in the air when Jim Vicatos, national director of sales at Choice Business Connections, joins the show. In addition to telling us where to find the best bagels and pizza on Long Island, Jim talks about his company's important relationship with T-Mobile, partner opportunities in IoT and how Choice's CAMP program is saving customers money. The guys also feel the love from Rick Beckers, who's not only a member of the Channel Partners Advisory Board, but also the head of a new company that's bringing a new approach in digital distribution to the channel. "It's an evolution and a collision of everything that's going on in the world as it pertains to what everyone has hung "industry 4.0" on ... our channel vendors and agents and partners are selling technology things. ... The digital transformation has turned everything from what used to be an on-premises world to a hybrid world, and you'd now be hard-pressed to find a technology offering that, if it already isn't subscription-based, the vendors selling those things are already working on how to make their wares subscription-based. XaaS1 ... is evolving the channel ... [creating] a digital distribution layer ... making the channel easier in general with a single-sign-on platform." All that and more, including a preview of the Business Success Symposium at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo and all of the "great ideas" that haven't quite made the cut for our shows over the past several years.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 53: Choice Business Connections, XaaS1

The boys are back from Channel Partners Evolution!Craig and Kevin provide a recap of everything you saw and missed at the show in Austin; plus, Craig sits down with Buck Baker, president, worldwide communications and services, ScanSource, and Jay Bradley, president of Intelisys, at the master agent's Channel Connect event.They go over highlights of the three days of festivities and talk about how the companies are working together one year after ScanSource closed its acquisition of Intelisys.

The boys are back from Channel Partners Evolution! Craig and Kevin provide a recap of everything you saw and missed at the show in Austin; plus, Craig sits down with Buck Baker, president, worldwide communications and services, ScanSource, and Jay Bradley, president of Intelisys, at the master agent's Channel Connect event. They go over highlights of the three days of festivities and talk about how the companies are working together one year after ScanSource closed its acquisition of Intelisys.

Coffee with Craig & Kevin: Intelisys Channel Connect, Evolution Recap

Kevin Episode No

Welcome to November!Craig and Kevin welcome Lisa Citron, vice president of America channel sales at F5 Networks, to the coffeehouse. She talks about F5's recent acquisition of NGINX and what that's doing for the company's partner community. Beyond that, we learn about growth in F5's Unity+ Partner Program.We also catch up with roving reporter Edward Gately, who just returned from Las Vegas and Splunk .conf, where he caught up with channel leader Brooke Cunningham to talk about the company's message to partners and the new products Splunk is rolling out for partners to sell.Plus, Channel Evolution Europe, our inaugural event in the U.K., is just a month away. We offer a preview. And in an edition dedicated to rock 'n' roll, Kevin breaks out another one of his whimsical industry metaphors to compare the channel to the history of rock.

Welcome to November! Craig and Kevin welcome Lisa Citron, vice president of America channel sales at F5 Networks, to the coffeehouse. She talks about F5's recent acquisition of NGINX and what that's doing for the company's partner community. Beyond that, we learn about growth in F5's Unity+ Partner Program. We also catch up with roving reporter Edward Gately, who just returned from Las Vegas and Splunk .conf, where he caught up with channel leader Brooke Cunningham to talk about the company's message to partners and the new products Splunk is rolling out for partners to sell. Plus, Channel Evolution Europe, our inaugural event in the U.K., is just a month away. We offer a preview. And in an edition dedicated to rock 'n' roll, Kevin breaks out another one of his whimsical industry metaphors to compare the channel to the history of rock.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode No. 67: F5 Networks, Splunk

Pax8

The guys return with their final podcast of the year, celebrating the holidays and thanking listeners for their devotion to Coffee with Craig and Kevin throughout 2019.And a classic Craig &amp; Kevin tradition returns -- a special CwCK movie trailer celebrating the "space" everyone in the channel loves to occupy.They've also lined up a pair of great guests. First up is Andrew Pryfogle, chief market development officer at cloud distributor Pax8. He'll be on a panel debating IT and telecom convergence at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in March. You'll want to hear what he has to say.Also, Vonage channel chief Mario DeRiggi talks to Craig and Kevin about the company's new channel program in the U.K. -- perfect timing coming off our inaugural Channel Evolution Europe show -- as well as Vonage's revitalized branding as a B2B SaaS company. What's it all mean to partners? Listen and find out.

The guys return with their final podcast of the year, celebrating the holidays and thanking listeners for their devotion to Coffee with Craig and Kevin throughout 2019. And a classic Craig &amp; Kevin tradition returns -- a special CwCK movie trailer celebrating the "space" everyone in the channel loves to occupy. They've also lined up a pair of great guests. First up is Andrew Pryfogle, chief market development officer at cloud distributor Pax8. He'll be on a panel debating IT and telecom convergence at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in March. You'll want to hear what he has to say. Also, Vonage channel chief Mario DeRiggi talks to Craig and Kevin about the company's new channel program in the U.K. -- perfect timing coming off our inaugural Channel Evolution Europe show -- as well as Vonage's revitalized branding as a B2B SaaS company. What's it all mean to partners? Listen and find out.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 69: Pax8, Vonage, Holiday Edition

After a hiatus to catch their breath from the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, the boys return to talk with two of the biggest headliners from the event.First, David Beagle of Office Depot talks about catching some of the audience off guard with the retail giant's big booth at the show. Just what were they doing there? He'll explain.And many were surprised to see such a large presence from EnergyWare. Michael Bertamini, the company's CEO, lights up the Channel Partners airwaves to discuss the growing interest in LED lighting solutions and why partners won't want to drop this profitable opportunity.All that, plus Craig and Kevin discuss some of their favorite moments from the show and the business transformation that will continue through 2018 and beyond.

After a hiatus to catch their breath from the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, the boys return to talk with two of the biggest headliners from the event. First, David Beagle of Office Depot talks about catching some of the audience off guard with the retail giant's big booth at the show. Just what were they doing there? He'll explain. And many were surprised to see such a large presence from EnergyWare. Michael Bertamini, the company's CEO, lights up the Channel Partners airwaves to discuss the growing interest in LED lighting solutions and why partners won't want to drop this profitable opportunity. All that, plus Craig and Kevin discuss some of their favorite moments from the show and the business transformation that will continue through 2018 and beyond.

Coffee with Craig & Kevin Episode No. 37: Office Depot, EnergyWare

Did you think we were gone for good? No way -- sorry!The guys are back with their first show since the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo wrapped last month with a recap of the event and a trio of interviews with some big players in the industry.First up is Danny Obaseki, VP of sales with GMS Live Expert, who shares how MSPs and their end customers are benefiting by working with his company.Then, Channel Partners/Channel Futures news editor Edward Gately talks with channel leaders from KnowBe4 at their KB4-CON user conference, where dozens of partners were in attendance. They get us caught up on the latest trends in cybersecurity and how the KnowBe4 partner program is helping partners improve their security chops.And fellow news editor James Anderson files a live report from master agent TBI's Big Event at Soldier Field in Chicago.All that, plus Kevin tries to slow Digi's momentum and the guys reveal a big name that will be taking the stage at this fall's Channel Partners Evolution.Be sure to check out the following links mentioned in the podcast:Live video podcast on Channel Evolution Europe: https://www.channelpartnersonline.com/videos/coffee-with-craig-and-kevin-get-ready-for-channel-evolution-europe/MSP 501 application page: https://informa.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Xmxv9gFsMHSgVT?track=Website_Announcement

Did you think we were gone for good? No way -- sorry! The guys are back with their first show since the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo wrapped last month with a recap of the event and a trio of interviews with some big players in the industry. First up is Danny Obaseki, VP of sales with GMS Live Expert, who shares how MSPs and their end customers are benefiting by working with his company. Then, Channel Partners/Channel Futures news editor Edward Gately talks with channel leaders from KnowBe4 at their KB4-CON user conference, where dozens of partners were in attendance. They get us caught up on the latest trends in cybersecurity and how the KnowBe4 partner program is helping partners improve their security chops. And fellow news editor James Anderson files a live report from master agent TBI's Big Event at Soldier Field in Chicago. All that, plus Kevin tries to slow Digi's momentum and the guys reveal a big name that will be taking the stage at this fall's Channel Partners Evolution. Be sure to check out the following links mentioned in the podcast: Live video podcast on Channel Evolution Europe: <a href="https://www.channelpartnersonline.com/videos/coffee-with-craig-and-kevin-get-ready-for-channel-evolution-europe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.channelpartnersonline.com/videos/coffee-with-craig-and-kevin-get-ready-for-channel-evolution-europe/</a> MSP 501 application page: <a href="https://informa.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Xmxv9gFsMHSgVT?track=Website_Announcement" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://informa.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Xmxv9gFsMHSgVT?track=Website_Announcement</a>

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode No. 57: TBI, KnowBe4, GMS Live Expert

Craig and Kevin celebrate a very "special" 38th edition of the Channel Partners podcast by welcoming Geeman Yip, CEO of BitTitan, who was named one of our inaugural Channel Influencers for 2018. You'll learn about how his company has been helping MSPs for the past 10 years.He'll also talk trends, including why we shouldn't fear automation; in fact, it might even help Kevin keep his job. We'll explain.Also on the podcast is Derek Brown of Pronto Marketing. Derek is a marketing expert who works with partners, most notably MSPs, to boost their business. A lot of partners are great at sales, but marketing is a black hole. He'll help calm those marketing fears.All that, plus a super-early sneak preview of Channel Partners Evolution. And yanny or laurel? It's the CCwK breaking news alert you won't want to miss.

Craig and Kevin celebrate a very "special" 38th edition of the Channel Partners podcast by welcoming Geeman Yip, CEO of BitTitan, who was named one of our inaugural Channel Influencers for 2018. You'll learn about how his company has been helping MSPs for the past 10 years. He'll also talk trends, including why we shouldn't fear automation; in fact, it might even help Kevin keep his job. We'll explain. Also on the podcast is Derek Brown of Pronto Marketing. Derek is a marketing expert who works with partners, most notably MSPs, to boost their business. A lot of partners are great at sales, but marketing is a black hole. He'll help calm those marketing fears. All that, plus a super-early sneak preview of Channel Partners Evolution. And yanny or laurel? It's the CCwK breaking news alert you won't want to miss.

Coffee with Craig & Kevin Episode 38: Channel Influencer Geeman Yip, Pronto Marketing

It's channel podcast time again!This week, Jennifer Anaya, VP of marketing with Ingram Micro, explains why MSPs are the distribution giant's fastest-growing partner group. She also tells us why her company was so quick to sponsor the upcoming MSP 501 gala at Channel Partners Evolution.Then, pick up your smartphone and your fidget spinner (only joking, millennials)! The guys welcome James Anderson, news editor with Channel Partners/Channel Futures, and Aaron Leveston, national account manager with RingCentral, to learn about a new group that's not only offering millennials a place to grow and learn but is also bridging the gap between the channel's older and younger generations.All that, plus introducing the channel's version of America's Got Talent!

It's channel podcast time again! This week, Jennifer Anaya, VP of marketing with Ingram Micro, explains why MSPs are the distribution giant's fastest-growing partner group. She also tells us why her company was so quick to sponsor the upcoming MSP 501 gala at Channel Partners Evolution. Then, pick up your smartphone and your fidget spinner (only joking, millennials)! The guys welcome James Anderson, news editor with Channel Partners/Channel Futures, and Aaron Leveston, national account manager with RingCentral, to learn about a new group that's not only offering millennials a place to grow and learn but is also bridging the gap between the channel's older and younger generations. All that, plus introducing the channel's version of America's Got Talent!

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 39: Ingram Micro, Millennial Madness

The arrival of Channel Partners Evolution is imminent, with just 26 days, as of this recording, Aug. 14, of kicking off in Washington, D.C. So we're upping the frequency of our podcasts!That's right, Craig and Kevin are back just nine days after their last effort to bring you updates from last week's Telarus Partner Summit in Aurora, Colorado, and the Black Hat USA event in Las Vegas.Craig sits down with Adam Edwards, CEO of Telarus, to talk about the remarkable sales growth of the master agent's partners, what Telarus is doing internationally, and how Partner Summit itself has grown so rapidly.Also, our road warrior and intrepid security reporter Edward Gately chats with leaders from Cisco and Duo Security to get an update on how the former's acquisition of the latter is impacting the partner community.And that's not all for our "On the Road" segment--Kevin talks about his visit to CompTIA's ChannelCon in Vegas.All that, plus the guys discuss what they are looking forward to most at the upcoming Channel Partners Evolution, and Kevin goes on the hot seat for this week's "Random Personal Question," which takes him back to high school.

The arrival of Channel Partners Evolution is imminent, with just 26 days, as of this recording, Aug. 14, of kicking off in Washington, D.C. So we're upping the frequency of our podcasts! That's right, Craig and Kevin are back just nine days after their last effort to bring you updates from last week's Telarus Partner Summit in Aurora, Colorado, and the Black Hat USA event in Las Vegas. Craig sits down with Adam Edwards, CEO of Telarus, to talk about the remarkable sales growth of the master agent's partners, what Telarus is doing internationally, and how Partner Summit itself has grown so rapidly. Also, our road warrior and intrepid security reporter Edward Gately chats with leaders from Cisco and Duo Security to get an update on how the former's acquisition of the latter is impacting the partner community. And that's not all for our "On the Road" segment--Kevin talks about his visit to CompTIA's ChannelCon in Vegas. All that, plus the guys discuss what they are looking forward to most at the upcoming Channel Partners Evolution, and Kevin goes on the hot seat for this week's "Random Personal Question," which takes him back to high school.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode No. 63: Telarus, Cisco

Dave Sobel

The push is on to Channel Evolution Europe, less than three weeks away in London. It's our inaugural European show, where we'll welcome top vendors and partners to Park Plaza Victoria, Dec. 2-3.A key player in the event will be Dave Sobel, IT industry and MSP expert, most recently at SolarWinds, who is doing a couple of his own podcasts to evangelize for the channel. We sat down with him to hear what he's been up to, what he has planned for Channel Evolution Europe, and how he'll be working with Channel Partners and Channel Futures over the next few months -- not to mention pick his brain for channel-related advice.Oh, and get this: Sobel says the "trusted adviser" is dead. That ought to perk up some ears.The guys also welcome the team from Vade Secure, the email security company, to learn about new technology they're offering and get the inside scoop on the latest in phishing attacks.All that, plus we take our first look at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas, slated for March 2020, and Kevin explains why he loves the three "F's" of fall so much.

The push is on to Channel Evolution Europe, less than three weeks away in London. It's our inaugural European show, where we'll welcome top vendors and partners to Park Plaza Victoria, Dec. 2-3. A key player in the event will be Dave Sobel, IT industry and MSP expert, most recently at SolarWinds, who is doing a couple of his own podcasts to evangelize for the channel. We sat down with him to hear what he's been up to, what he has planned for Channel Evolution Europe, and how he'll be working with Channel Partners and Channel Futures over the next few months -- not to mention pick his brain for channel-related advice. Oh, and get this: Sobel says the "trusted adviser" is dead. That ought to perk up some ears. The guys also welcome the team from Vade Secure, the email security company, to learn about new technology they're offering and get the inside scoop on the latest in phishing attacks. All that, plus we take our first look at the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas, slated for March 2020, and Kevin explains why he loves the three "F's" of fall so much.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode No. 68: Dave Sobel, Vade Secure

Robin Robins

The heat of summer is here, so Craig and Kevin are bringing you a red-hot version of the Channel Partners podcast!The guys are excited to welcome to the show Robin Robins, the well-known IT marketing and sales consultant, who is getting ready for her four-hour preconference workshop at the upcoming Channel Partners Evolution, the channel's biggest fall event. Robin explains why you should attend the event and drops a number of important sales and marketing tips that you can apply to your business before you even get to Washington, D.C."I think this is what gets many small business owners in trouble. They don't really understand marketing, so they think it's branding, a beautiful logo and a dynamic website. It's really none of those things. I'm a salesperson. A salesperson thinks differently about marketing. ... People are going to buy from us because we provide real value, we can solve a problem for them and we are positioned properly."Speaking of Evolution, to be held Sept. 9-12, we'll explore some of the great networking opportunities on tap for the show. You'll also hear about a new partnership Channel Partners and Channel Futures have with Auvik, the RMM provider, which gives you the chance to take home some really "cool" prizes during the heat of summer.The prizes don't stop there. A number of channel executives will be taking home honors at Channel Partners Evolution, part of our new "Top Gun 51" program that recognizes some of the biggest players in the biz, as well as some names you might be less familiar with. We'll announce a date for the big "reveal."The podcast wraps with another great "Random Personal Question." But instead of putting our guest on the spot, Craig is forced to face the whammy.

The heat of summer is here, so Craig and Kevin are bringing you a red-hot version of the Channel Partners podcast! The guys are excited to welcome to the show Robin Robins, the well-known IT marketing and sales consultant, who is getting ready for her four-hour preconference workshop at the upcoming Channel Partners Evolution, the channel's biggest fall event. Robin explains why you should attend the event and drops a number of important sales and marketing tips that you can apply to your business before you even get to Washington, D.C. "I think this is what gets many small business owners in trouble. They don't really understand marketing, so they think it's branding, a beautiful logo and a dynamic website. It's really none of those things. I'm a salesperson. A salesperson thinks differently about marketing. ... People are going to buy from us because we provide real value, we can solve a problem for them and we are positioned properly." Speaking of Evolution, to be held Sept. 9-12, we'll explore some of the great networking opportunities on tap for the show. You'll also hear about a new partnership Channel Partners and Channel Futures have with Auvik, the RMM provider, which gives you the chance to take home some really "cool" prizes during the heat of summer. The prizes don't stop there. A number of channel executives will be taking home honors at Channel Partners Evolution, part of our new "Top Gun 51" program that recognizes some of the biggest players in the biz, as well as some names you might be less familiar with. We'll announce a date for the big "reveal." The podcast wraps with another great "Random Personal Question." But instead of putting our guest on the spot, Craig is forced to face the whammy.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 60: Marketing Expert Robin Robins

Dude, we're getting Dell!That's right, Dell Expert Network, the tech giant's business unit dedicated to serving MSPs and the SMB community, will be on hand at Channel Partners Evolution. They're setting up shop in the expo hall, meeting with prospective partners and sponsoring the Robin Robins sales and marketing preconference workshop. But we got them first on Coffee with Craig and Kevin to discuss the need for something like Dell Expert Network in the market and more about what they have planned for next week's show in Washington, D.C.TBI's Bryan Reynolds also joins for his third in a series of appearances to tell us what he's doing to get "pumped up" for moderating the "Thunderdomes" at Channel Partners Evolution and what the master agent is doing to help partners sell SD-WAN.Noticing a theme here? It's the Evolution pre-show edition! We'll cover the can't-miss highlights of the event and get you stoked for what will be four days of top-notch education and networking.

Dude, we're getting Dell! That's right, Dell Expert Network, the tech giant's business unit dedicated to serving MSPs and the SMB community, will be on hand at Channel Partners Evolution. They're setting up shop in the expo hall, meeting with prospective partners and sponsoring the Robin Robins sales and marketing preconference workshop. But we got them first on Coffee with Craig and Kevin to discuss the need for something like Dell Expert Network in the market and more about what they have planned for next week's show in Washington, D.C. TBI's Bryan Reynolds also joins for his third in a series of appearances to tell us what he's doing to get "pumped up" for moderating the "Thunderdomes" at Channel Partners Evolution and what the master agent is doing to help partners sell SD-WAN. Noticing a theme here? It's the Evolution pre-show edition! We'll cover the can't-miss highlights of the event and get you stoked for what will be four days of top-notch education and networking.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode No. 65: Dell Expert Network, TBI

The long-awaited MSP 501 rankings are out. Did your company make the list? That's the focus of this episode of Coffee with Craig and Kevin.The guys welcome Kris Blackmon, senior editor of the MSP 501, to talk about how MSPs were chosen for the list and the remarkable effort it took to increase the number of applications we received this year by a big number."Our community profile has just grown and grown," said Blackmon. "Last year was a record number for applications, and this year we saw 35% year-over-year growth. So it seems to be one of those programs that's really resonating and taking off."Also on the show is Bryan Reynolds, director of sales operations for master agent TBI. In the first of a series of appearances on Coffee with Craig and Kevin, Reynolds talks about the popularity of online video content his company is producing and previews the upcoming "Thunderdome" series that he hosts at Channel Partners Evolution in Washington, D.C."It's kind of like a live buyer's guide and you hear it directly from the vendors themselves. If you're in a competitive sales situation and there are competitors bidding against each other, you don't necessarily hear them say exactly what they're saying to the customer. This was a way to get them all in the same room at the same time and ask them pointed questions that customers might ask or partners might ask, and then hold them accountable for what they're saying."Reynolds also bravely participates in our summer series, "Random Personal Question," where we spin the wheel--round and round she goes, where she stops, nobody knows..

The long-awaited MSP 501 rankings are out. Did your company make the list? That's the focus of this episode of Coffee with Craig and Kevin. The guys welcome Kris Blackmon, senior editor of the MSP 501, to talk about how MSPs were chosen for the list and the remarkable effort it took to increase the number of applications we received this year by a big number. "Our community profile has just grown and grown," said Blackmon. "Last year was a record number for applications, and this year we saw 35% year-over-year growth. So it seems to be one of those programs that's really resonating and taking off." Also on the show is Bryan Reynolds, director of sales operations for master agent TBI. In the first of a series of appearances on Coffee with Craig and Kevin, Reynolds talks about the popularity of online video content his company is producing and previews the upcoming "Thunderdome" series that he hosts at Channel Partners Evolution in Washington, D.C. "It's kind of like a live buyer's guide and you hear it directly from the vendors themselves. If you're in a competitive sales situation and there are competitors bidding against each other, you don't necessarily hear them say exactly what they're saying to the customer. This was a way to get them all in the same room at the same time and ask them pointed questions that customers might ask or partners might ask, and then hold them accountable for what they're saying." Reynolds also bravely participates in our summer series, "Random Personal Question," where we spin the wheel--round and round she goes, where she stops, nobody knows..

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 59: TBi, MSP 501

John DeLozier

The Channel Partners podcast is turning the big 4-0 (as in our 40th episode), and the guys are celebrating with a pair of great guests.First, just a week into his new gig as global channel chief at 8x8, John DeLozier, formerly channel leader at CenturyLink, talks about why he took on this new challenge and what he hopes to bring to the table at his new company.Then, Tracy Kersting, director of channel marketing at Vivial, discusses her company's relationship with partners and what it has in store for Channel Partners Evolution this fall.But as we all know, turning 40 poses some challenges as well. Craig and Kevin both find reasons to go off on a rant and share some of their favorite rants from the world of sports and entertainment. And of course, The Channel's Got Talent continues! We'll find out what sets our guests apart from the rest.

The Channel Partners podcast is turning the big 4-0 (as in our 40th episode), and the guys are celebrating with a pair of great guests. First, just a week into his new gig as global channel chief at 8x8, John DeLozier, formerly channel leader at CenturyLink, talks about why he took on this new challenge and what he hopes to bring to the table at his new company. Then, Tracy Kersting, director of channel marketing at Vivial, discusses her company's relationship with partners and what it has in store for Channel Partners Evolution this fall. But as we all know, turning 40 poses some challenges as well. Craig and Kevin both find reasons to go off on a rant and share some of their favorite rants from the world of sports and entertainment. And of course, The Channel's Got Talent continues! We'll find out what sets our guests apart from the rest.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 40: 8x8's John DeLozier, Vivial

The groundhog didn't see his shadow, so that means at least six more episodes of Craig and Kevin.The guys are pleased to welcome RingCentral channel chief Zane Long to the show. He talks about the latest cutting-edge research around unified communications a service and how his company's recent purchase of a pair of customer-engagement platforms is bound to benefit partners."This bolsters our customer-engagement portfolio ....  without question our primary focus has been addressing the needs of businesses as they look to enable their mobile and distributed workforces all across the world," Long says.We also get an on-the-scene report from our own Edward Gately, who spent the week in Las Vegas at the Check Point CPX360 event. He caught up with new Check Point channel leader Frank Rauch to learn about the direction the cybersecurity provider is taking with its partner program. All that, plus Kevin introduces a sketchy new acronym--KWIM--that we doubt is going to catch on. He tries hard nonetheless. And we'll offer an update on this spring's upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, whose pieces are really starting to come together.

The groundhog didn't see his shadow, so that means at least six more episodes of Craig and Kevin. The guys are pleased to welcome RingCentral channel chief Zane Long to the show. He talks about the latest cutting-edge research around unified communications a service and how his company's recent purchase of a pair of customer-engagement platforms is bound to benefit partners. "This bolsters our customer-engagement portfolio .... without question our primary focus has been addressing the needs of businesses as they look to enable their mobile and distributed workforces all across the world," Long says. We also get an on-the-scene report from our own Edward Gately, who spent the week in Las Vegas at the Check Point CPX360 event. He caught up with new Check Point channel leader Frank Rauch to learn about the direction the cybersecurity provider is taking with its partner program. All that, plus Kevin introduces a sketchy new acronym--KWIM--that we doubt is going to catch on. He tries hard nonetheless. And we'll offer an update on this spring's upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo, whose pieces are really starting to come together.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode 52: RingCentral, Check Point

The Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo is almost here, so the guys are celebrating with a trio of first-time exhibitors at the show.First up is Richard Stevens of Channel Assist, who talks about how his company helps businesses increase partner engagement.Then comes Rachael Wright of Upcurve Cloud, a Google Cloud premier partner. She shares how Upcurve offers partners the opportunity to engage their clients from top to bottom of the technology stack.Last but not least is Jennifer Kula of Wasabi, who explains Wasabi's "hot" storage and how partners can be "hot" by association.And of course, with this being the last podcast before the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas kicks off on April 9, Craig and Kevin offer tips to make the best of your event-going experience. Oh, and Kevin raps … and goes off on a rant to get us all pumped up … the usual stuff.

The Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo is almost here, so the guys are celebrating with a trio of first-time exhibitors at the show. First up is Richard Stevens of Channel Assist, who talks about how his company helps businesses increase partner engagement. Then comes Rachael Wright of Upcurve Cloud, a Google Cloud premier partner. She shares how Upcurve offers partners the opportunity to engage their clients from top to bottom of the technology stack. Last but not least is Jennifer Kula of Wasabi, who explains Wasabi's "hot" storage and how partners can be "hot" by association. And of course, with this being the last podcast before the Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas kicks off on April 9, Craig and Kevin offer tips to make the best of your event-going experience. Oh, and Kevin raps … and goes off on a rant to get us all pumped up … the usual stuff.

Coffee with Craig and Kevin Episode No. 56: New Exhibitors, Pre CP Expo Edition

Coffee with Craig &amp; Kevin celebrates its 35th episode by welcoming Dina Moskowitz and Clinton Gatewood of SaaSMax to the show. They discuss the state of SaaS in the channel and their plans for the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas.(Warning: Many SaaS puns await you.)Also, Craig talks about his latest obsession--which is truly an old obsession--game shows.

Coffee with Craig &amp; Kevin celebrates its 35th episode by welcoming Dina Moskowitz and Clinton Gatewood of SaaSMax to the show. They discuss the state of SaaS in the channel and their plans for the upcoming Channel Partners Conference &amp; Expo in Las Vegas. (Warning: Many SaaS puns await you.) Also, Craig talks about his latest obsession--which is truly an old obsession--game shows.

Coffee with Craig & Kevin Episode 35: Getting 'SaaS'-y with SaaSMax, Game Show Fever

Carmen Sorice

Channel Partners executive editor Craig Galbraith and business development lead Kevin Morris kick off the new year with a podcast featuring Carmen Sorice, longtime channel leader at Sungard Availability Services, who has started a new business that's dedicated to helping vendors build successful channel programs.Also on the show is Chris Whitaker, director of national indirect sales at Sierra Wireless, who dives into the state of connectivity and IoT in the channel.All of that, plus Kevin introduces you to a new acronym-based theme song for the podcast.

Channel Partners executive editor Craig Galbraith and business development lead Kevin Morris kick off the new year with a podcast featuring Carmen Sorice, longtime channel leader at Sungard Availability Services, who has started a new business that's dedicated to helping vendors build successful channel programs. Also on the show is Chris Whitaker, director of national indirect sales at Sierra Wireless, who dives into the state of connectivity and IoT in the channel. All of that, plus Kevin introduces you to a new acronym-based theme song for the podcast.

Coffee with Craig & Kevin: Carmen Sorice, Sierra Wireless

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