Charlene Ignacio

Today Hosts James welcomes our guest co-host: Charlene Ignacio! Being from Hawaii, she makes friends everywhere she goes. What you see online is what you get in person. She serves as a multi-industry CEO, speaker, author, serial entrepreneur for, business results Coach and is also a  2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo, and Black Belt Lean Six Sigma Certified. She is also the CMO at ChannelMastered and CEO of https://TheCMOGuru.com --- Segment One:  MSP Question of the Week What can MSP’s do to market their business with little or no budget? --- Segment Two: What Are You Up To? Catch James and Charlene at ChannelCon in Las Vegas and more!  --- Segment Three: Five Minutes with A Smart Person - Mr. Van Deeb  Host James and Mr. Van Deeb sit down and talk becoming successful by doing the right thing in the workplace and how leaders help others succeed. Van Deeb is the country’s foremost expert on building relationships and is dedicated to helping others become successful in the sales and service industry. He has inspired tens of thousands of professionals throughout the country to succeed through his motivational and informative keynote speeches, workshops, speaking events, newsletters, and books.   SPONSOR MEMO:  IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

Today Hosts James welcomes our guest co-host: Charlene Ignacio! Being from Hawaii, she makes friends everywhere she goes. What you see online is what you get in person. She serves as a multi-industry CEO, speaker, author, serial entrepreneur for, business results Coach and is also a  2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo, and Black Belt Lean Six Sigma Certified. She is also the CMO at ChannelMastered and CEO of <a href="https://TheCMOGuru.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://TheCMOGuru.com</a> --- Segment One:  MSP Question of the Week What can MSP’s do to market their business with little or no budget? --- Segment Two: What Are You Up To? Catch James and Charlene at ChannelCon in Las Vegas and more!  --- Segment Three: Five Minutes with A Smart Person - Mr. Van Deeb  Host James and Mr. Van Deeb sit down and talk becoming successful by doing the right thing in the workplace and how leaders help others succeed. Van Deeb is the country’s foremost expert on building relationships and is dedicated to helping others become successful in the sales and service industry. He has inspired tens of thousands of professionals throughout the country to succeed through his motivational and informative keynote speeches, workshops, speaking events, newsletters, and books. SPONSOR MEMO:  IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at <a href="https://ITSPU.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ITSPU.com</a>

Marketing for the MSP with Charlene Ignacio

Segement One: MSP Question of the Week From Janet Schijns, a question and a survey: "Today I am thinking about how Generative AI will impact the channel partner cost to serve vendors in the future. For example: By using Generative AI to create your marketing materials, better select ideal customers, customized dev work, customer support, or other tasks that AI can do to help lower your overall costs, does this actually result in a lower cost of serving the vendor product/solutions you distribute? Or will it have no impact?"  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/janetschijns_generativeai-channelpartners-surveying-activity-7069746600708841472-go6A --- Segment Two: Notes on the News  New suggestions for what a secure password is in the era of AI: https://www.hivesystems.io/blog/are-your-passwords-in-the-green  Nvidia - Absurdly expensive? $385/share. Market cap $952B. Connectwise up for sale?  https://www.reddit.com/r/msp/comments/142vndc/connectwise_buyout_heres_whats_really_going_on/   ---  Sponsor Memo: Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community NOW is the time to join the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at https://SmallBizThoughts.ORG There is no better value for training and education in managed services. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free 5-week courses, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Prices go up July 1st. Join now and you can lock in the lower price for life. See all the details and Join us today at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org. :-)

Segement One: MSP Question of the Week From Janet Schijns, a question and a survey: "Today I am thinking about how Generative AI will impact the channel partner cost to serve vendors in the future. For example: By using Generative AI to create your marketing materials, better select ideal customers, customized dev work, customer support, or other tasks that AI can do to help lower your overall costs, does this actually result in a lower cost of serving the vendor product/solutions you distribute? Or will it have no impact?" <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/janetschijns_generativeai-channelpartners-surveying-activity-7069746600708841472-go6A" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/posts/janetschijns_generativeai-channelpartners-surveying-activity-7069746600708841472-go6A</a> --- Segment Two: Notes on the News  New suggestions for what a secure password is in the era of AI: <a href="https://www.hivesystems.io/blog/are-your-passwords-in-the-green" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hivesystems.io/blog/are-your-passwords-in-the-green</a> Nvidia - Absurdly expensive? $385/share. Market cap $952B. Connectwise up for sale? <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/msp/comments/142vndc/connectwise_buyout_heres_whats_really_going_on/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.reddit.com/r/msp/comments/142vndc/connectwise_buyout_heres_whats_really_going_on/</a> ---  Sponsor Memo: Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community NOW is the time to join the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at <a href="https://SmallBizThoughts.ORG" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://SmallBizThoughts.ORG</a> There is no better value for training and education in managed services. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free 5-week courses, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Prices go up July 1st. Join now and you can lock in the lower price for life. See all the details and Join us today at <a href="https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org</a>. :-)

Generative AI's Impact

Segment One: The MSP Question of The Week I have clients that have three PCs but don’t need a whole lot, what should I do? Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Dr. Lance Reichenberger --- Host James sits down with his friend, Dr. Lance Reichenberger. When Lance was only 11 years old, he began working with and programming computers. His father, an engineer, sometimes worked on a computer at home. When he was not using the machine for his professional work, he allowed young Lance to learn while playing with this computer. This was before even a dial-up modem, when transferring data required a 5 ½ inch floppy disk. He found there was not much on the hard drive, so he began rewriting the programs. He changed out the hardware, added capabilities and eventually added an early stage modem to access in the internet. Technology was a natural match for his abilities and his father encouraged him to use the natural ability to create a future. As a young man, he volunteered in the emergency room of a hospital learned a lot about medicine. This led him to become an EMT and paramedic with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Although he had plans to become a doctor, those plans were sidetracked. He did, however, do a lot of the network cabling, computers, and programming at several medical organizations. He continues to be a subject matter expert in the area of medical technology. --- Segment Three: Notes on the News  Cage fight! Yup, it’s our turn to give our two cents on Zuckerberg vs. Musk. Azure AD gets a new name:  https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/updates/azure-ad-is-becoming-microsoft-entra-id/#:~:text=Microsoft%20Entra%20ID%20is%20the,secure%20access%20experiences%20for%20everyone. And finally, is it recession time? --- Resources and Links: CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l Karl will be at XChange Nashville August 20-33! Check out more: https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda   Sponsor Memo: NSITSP Hey MSPs: People are talking about you - behind your back. They're regulators and legislators. They're CISA and the states of Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. And more. Every state now has at least one committee in their state legislature that focuses on cybersecurity. That means regulation is coming. You can count on it. The National Society of IT Service Providers was created to give you a seat at the table when someone's talking about you. That includes regulator, legislators, and even the media. Find out more and join today at www.nsitsp.org We're working on your behalf to turn the industry into a profession.

Segment One: The MSP Question of The Week I have clients that have three PCs but don’t need a whole lot, what should I do? Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Dr. Lance Reichenberger --- Host James sits down with his friend, Dr. Lance Reichenberger. When Lance was only 11 years old, he began working with and programming computers. His father, an engineer, sometimes worked on a computer at home. When he was not using the machine for his professional work, he allowed young Lance to learn while playing with this computer. This was before even a dial-up modem, when transferring data required a 5 ½ inch floppy disk. He found there was not much on the hard drive, so he began rewriting the programs. He changed out the hardware, added capabilities and eventually added an early stage modem to access in the internet. Technology was a natural match for his abilities and his father encouraged him to use the natural ability to create a future. As a young man, he volunteered in the emergency room of a hospital learned a lot about medicine. This led him to become an EMT and paramedic with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Although he had plans to become a doctor, those plans were sidetracked. He did, however, do a lot of the network cabling, computers, and programming at several medical organizations. He continues to be a subject matter expert in the area of medical technology. --- Segment Three: Notes on the News  Cage fight! Yup, it’s our turn to give our two cents on Zuckerberg vs. Musk. Azure AD gets a new name: <a href="https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/updates/azure-ad-is-becoming-microsoft-entra-id/#:~:text=Microsoft%20Entra%20ID%20is%20the,secure%20access%20experiences%20for%20everyone" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/updates/azure-ad-is-becoming-microsoft-entra-id/#:~:text=Microsoft%20Entra%20ID%20is%20the,secure%20access%20experiences%20for%20everyone</a>. And finally, is it recession time? --- Resources and Links: CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: <a href="https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l</a> Karl will be at XChange Nashville August 20-33! Check out more: <a href="https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda</a> Sponsor Memo: NSITSP Hey MSPs: People are talking about you - behind your back. They're regulators and legislators. They're CISA and the states of Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. And more. Every state now has at least one committee in their state legislature that focuses on cybersecurity. That means regulation is coming. You can count on it. The National Society of IT Service Providers was created to give you a seat at the table when someone's talking about you. That includes regulator, legislators, and even the media. Find out more and join today at <a href="https://www.nsitsp.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.nsitsp.org</a> We're working on your behalf to turn the industry into a profession.

Cage Fight

We catch up with Host Karl and Host Amy. Find out who's smoke free. Segment One: The MSP Question of the Week   Do you have to be a “technical” person in order to run a successful IT consulting business? --- Segment Two: Five minutes with a Smart Person - Sarah Hansen Host James sits down with Sarah Hansen of Hansen Collective. Upon earning her bachelor's degree in journalism and media communications at Colorado State University, Sarah Hansen set out to forge a career path that was both creative and flexible in social media marketing. After gaining experience working as a social media strategist with top performing midwest agencies and freelancing with brands around the country, at the age of 23, Sarah launched her own social media brand– Hansen Collective. Not only is Hansen Collective a place where she uses her online marketing expertise to help both international and domestic clients, but it's also a place where she can foster a community and educate her audience on creating effective social media strategies for personal brands and businesses alike. --- Segment Three:  Notes on the News  Technology we didn’t expect...Car companies have become the “natural” providers of home electrical systems and DC battery power.  https://www.theverge.com/2023/6/28/23776690/gm-energy-ultium-home-ev-charging-v2h-stationary-storage  ---  Resources and Links CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l XChange Nashville = Karl attending August 20-33 See https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda   Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

We catch up with Host Karl and Host Amy. Find out who's smoke free. Segment One: The MSP Question of the Week   Do you have to be a “technical” person in order to run a successful IT consulting business? --- Segment Two: Five minutes with a Smart Person - Sarah Hansen Host James sits down with Sarah Hansen of Hansen Collective. Upon earning her bachelor's degree in journalism and media communications at Colorado State University, Sarah Hansen set out to forge a career path that was both creative and flexible in social media marketing. After gaining experience working as a social media strategist with top performing midwest agencies and freelancing with brands around the country, at the age of 23, Sarah launched her own social media brand– Hansen Collective. Not only is Hansen Collective a place where she uses her online marketing expertise to help both international and domestic clients, but it's also a place where she can foster a community and educate her audience on creating effective social media strategies for personal brands and businesses alike. --- Segment Three:  Notes on the News  Technology we didn’t expect...Car companies have become the “natural” providers of home electrical systems and DC battery power. <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/6/28/23776690/gm-energy-ultium-home-ev-charging-v2h-stationary-storage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.theverge.com/2023/6/28/23776690/gm-energy-ultium-home-ev-charging-v2h-stationary-storage</a> --- Resources and Links CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: <a href="https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l</a> XChange Nashville = Karl attending August 20-33 See <a href="https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda</a> Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at <a href="https://itspu.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ITSPU.com</a>

"Technical" Person Necessary for Success?

Segment One: Notes on the News We sit down with Amy B and James and discuss the PAX8 marketplace Microsoft $5 Subscription Based Business Assist, and Microsoft Most Recent Security Response. Microsoft Business Assist:  https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/business-assist-for-microsoft-365-37deb8fe-61cc-4cf9-9ad1-1c8d93475070 Microsoft Security Blog:  https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2023/06/14/cadet-blizzard-emerges-as-a-novel-and-distinct-russian-threat-actor/ Windows patch:  https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/kb5028407-how-to-manage-the-vulnerability-associated-with-cve-2023-32019-bd6ed35f-48b1-41f6-bd19-d2d97270f080 --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with A Smart Person - Oliver Nshom  Oliver Nshom is one of the Best Public Speaking Trainers, graduate from the Business Leadership School USA, a certified speaker from Kernan Consultancy USA, Trained and certified Human Resource professional (CHRP), Trained and certified Customer Relationship Professional (CCRP), Trained and Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Trained and Certified Speaker and Coach (CSC). He recently batched the Star Heroes after completing his Executive Master’s Program from MOGi Global Leadership School in Nigeria. --- Segment Three: What Are You Up To? Our hosts gear up for event season. Check out these awesome events will be at: CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l XChange Nashville = Karl attending August 20-33 See https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda   Sponsor Memo: ITSPU IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

Segment One: Notes on the News We sit down with Amy B and James and discuss the PAX8 marketplace Microsoft $5 Subscription Based Business Assist, and Microsoft Most Recent Security Response. Microsoft Business Assist: <a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/business-assist-for-microsoft-365-37deb8fe-61cc-4cf9-9ad1-1c8d93475070" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/business-assist-for-microsoft-365-37deb8fe-61cc-4cf9-9ad1-1c8d93475070</a> Microsoft Security Blog: <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2023/06/14/cadet-blizzard-emerges-as-a-novel-and-distinct-russian-threat-actor/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2023/06/14/cadet-blizzard-emerges-as-a-novel-and-distinct-russian-threat-actor/</a> Windows patch: <a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/kb5028407-how-to-manage-the-vulnerability-associated-with-cve-2023-32019-bd6ed35f-48b1-41f6-bd19-d2d97270f080" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/kb5028407-how-to-manage-the-vulnerability-associated-with-cve-2023-32019-bd6ed35f-48b1-41f6-bd19-d2d97270f080</a> --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with A Smart Person - Oliver Nshom  Oliver Nshom is one of the Best Public Speaking Trainers, graduate from the Business Leadership School USA, a certified speaker from Kernan Consultancy USA, Trained and certified Human Resource professional (CHRP), Trained and certified Customer Relationship Professional (CCRP), Trained and Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Trained and Certified Speaker and Coach (CSC). He recently batched the Star Heroes after completing his Executive Master’s Program from MOGi Global Leadership School in Nigeria. --- Segment Three: What Are You Up To? Our hosts gear up for event season. Check out these awesome events will be at: CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: <a href="https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l</a> XChange Nashville = Karl attending August 20-33 See <a href="https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda</a> Sponsor Memo: ITSPU IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at <a href="https://ITSPU.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ITSPU.com</a>

Pax8 Marketplace

Segment One: What are you up to? Amy B, James, and Karl--3/4th of our wonderful hosts join is for today's episode. Amy B joins on the road as she drives north to...the boat. — Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person – Our Very Own James Kernan! James Kernan's first and last time as our smart person ;)! Today, we discuss James's course on Leadership and Management Principles for MSPs over at ITSP University. Learn more about this course here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zzbZqkPZz8&amp;t=2s https://www.itspu.com/ Check out James's event: Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event – Denver June 29-30th LINK TO REGISTER: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind — Segment Three: MSP Question of the week and Notes on the News  Q: Do you have to be an early adopter if you're an IT consultatant? And does it dictacte success?  Sometimes the latest, greatest tool just add up in the server closet. And sometimes change isnt necassary. As they say, if it ain't broke... In the news: Amy B reads an article. "Twitter owes google and AWS a boat load of money for hosting them in their evironement."  In short, Twitter is the dreaded "deadbeat client". So, when should you cut off your deadbeat client?   Resources and Links: https://nsitsp.org/events NSITSP's Webinar on Change Management:  https://nsitsp.org/event/webinar-change-management-for-it-service-providers/ CompTIA Free registration – August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l ---   Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at https://smallbizthoughts.org Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://smallbizthoughts.org

Segment One: What are you up to? Amy B, James, and Karl--3/4th of our wonderful hosts join is for today's episode. Amy B joins on the road as she drives north to...the boat. — Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person – Our Very Own James Kernan! James Kernan's first and last time as our smart person ;)! Today, we discuss James's course on Leadership and Management Principles for MSPs over at ITSP University. Learn more about this course here:  <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zzbZqkPZz8&amp;t=2s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zzbZqkPZz8&amp;t=2s</a> <a href="https://www.itspu.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.itspu.com/</a> Check out James's event: Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event – Denver June 29-30th LINK TO REGISTER: <a href="http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind</a> — Segment Three: MSP Question of the week and Notes on the News  Q: Do you have to be an early adopter if you're an IT consultatant? And does it dictacte success?  Sometimes the latest, greatest tool just add up in the server closet. And sometimes change isnt necassary. As they say, if it ain't broke... In the news: Amy B reads an article. "Twitter owes google and AWS a boat load of money for hosting them in their evironement."  In short, Twitter is the dreaded "deadbeat client". So, when should you cut off your deadbeat client? Resources and Links: <a href="https://nsitsp.org/events" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://nsitsp.org/events</a> NSITSP's Webinar on Change Management: <a href="https://nsitsp.org/event/webinar-change-management-for-it-service-providers/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://nsitsp.org/event/webinar-change-management-for-it-service-providers/</a> CompTIA Free registration – August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: <a href="https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l</a> ---   Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at <a href="https://smallbizthoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smallbizthoughts.org</a> Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at <a href="https://smallbizthoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smallbizthoughts.org</a>

When Do You Cut-off Your Deadbeat Client?

Segment One: What are you up to? Host Amy B and Karl discuss the latest in flower power. --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Allen Edwards  Allen began his I.T. career in 1994 as an entry-level tech, climbing the ladder through positions such as network technologist and then division manager in just six years. He founded his first I.T. company in 2002, and in ten short years led the enterprise through a transition from break/fix to MSP, and from custom ticketing to AutoTask before moving to ConnectWise Manage. Allen started Eureka Process with a view to benefiting their clients through immersion in their daily process and activity. Allen brings his breadth of technical and leadership knowledge to the table, along with proven leadership implementation skills to guide his clients and their teams through fostering the development of the hard and soft skills that make success inevitable. Allen is strict about Eureka’s mandate, always add value first, whether that means working with C-level executives to elevate their leadership game or getting hands-on with front-line techs or the sales team. A sought-after MSP expert, he aims to offer his clients a sense of relief from the demand and complexity of running a successful MSP. Allen wants to reinvigorate teams with enthusiasm and a sense of possibility while building meaningful, growth-centered relationships that support next-level performance. With a passion for adventure, Allen fills his spare time nurturing any one of his varied interests. From scuba diving to snow skiing, acro-yoga and travel – he looks to take in all this world has to offer. https://eurekaprocess.com/about/ --- Segment Three: MSP Question of the week and Notes on the News  Q: Do we have too few ports on new laptops? Is AI really going to kill us all? Why is there a move by AI-creators to scare everyone? Is it the end of work? Resources and Links: https://nsitsp.org/join/ Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event - Denver June 29-30th  LINK TO REGISTER: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l   Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at https://smallbizthoughts.org Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://smallbizthoughts.org

Segment One: What are you up to? Host Amy B and Karl discuss the latest in flower power. --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Allen Edwards  Allen began his I.T. career in 1994 as an entry-level tech, climbing the ladder through positions such as network technologist and then division manager in just six years. He founded his first I.T. company in 2002, and in ten short years led the enterprise through a transition from break/fix to MSP, and from custom ticketing to AutoTask before moving to ConnectWise Manage. Allen started Eureka Process with a view to benefiting their clients through immersion in their daily process and activity. Allen brings his breadth of technical and leadership knowledge to the table, along with proven leadership implementation skills to guide his clients and their teams through fostering the development of the hard and soft skills that make success inevitable. Allen is strict about Eureka’s mandate, always add value first, whether that means working with C-level executives to elevate their leadership game or getting hands-on with front-line techs or the sales team. A sought-after MSP expert, he aims to offer his clients a sense of relief from the demand and complexity of running a successful MSP. Allen wants to reinvigorate teams with enthusiasm and a sense of possibility while building meaningful, growth-centered relationships that support next-level performance. With a passion for adventure, Allen fills his spare time nurturing any one of his varied interests. From scuba diving to snow skiing, acro-yoga and travel – he looks to take in all this world has to offer. <a href="https://eurekaprocess.com/about/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://eurekaprocess.com/about/</a> --- Segment Three: MSP Question of the week and Notes on the News  Q: Do we have too few ports on new laptops? Is AI really going to kill us all? Why is there a move by AI-creators to scare everyone? Is it the end of work? Resources and Links: <a href="https://nsitsp.org/join/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://nsitsp.org/join/</a> Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event - Denver June 29-30th LINK TO REGISTER: <a href="http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind</a> CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: <a href="https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l</a> Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at <a href="https://smallbizthoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smallbizthoughts.org</a> Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at <a href="https://smallbizthoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smallbizthoughts.org</a>

Do Laptops Need More Ports?

Segment One: What are you up to? Karl just wrapped up the SMB Online Conference!  Check it out here: https://smbonlineconference.com  Three days of smart people &amp; fun. James is revving up for his LIVE event in Denver this month June 29th-30th.  Register here:  http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind Interested in more live shows?  Use Karl's code for CompTIA Free registration!  Use code: SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Brian Hoppe Karl sits down with this week's smart person. Brian has been part of the Managed Services industry since the early 2000s. He earned both his Bachelor’s and MBA from Baylor University. For over 20 years, Brian has worked in multiple MSPs and has bought and sold multiple MSPs. He has grown multiple MSPs to over $5 million in revenue and managed MSPs in excess of $15 million in revenue. Brian has a thorough understanding of all the ins and outs of running a highly successful MSP. His expertise in leadership and coaching can help any MSP owner or CEO achieve the results they want in both business and life. He is passionate about finding the right clients for his coaching practice to help take their business and leadership to the next level. Check out more here: https://brianhoppe.com --- Segment Three: Notes on the News and MSP Question of the Week   Our QOW: What’s more important: People or Process? As for the Notes on the News... Does the Netflix crackdown on password sharing affect you?  https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/23/23734725/netflix-password-sharing-us-pricing-streaming  Fun with Statistics: Managed Services Market is $205B worldwide...headed to to reach $594.8 B by 2031.  We gotta ask: Why not just project $595B?  https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/managed-services-market-A14724   ---  Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at https://smallbizthoughts.org Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://smallbizthoughts.org

Segment One: What are you up to? Karl just wrapped up the SMB Online Conference!  Check it out here: <a href="https://smbonlineconference.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smbonlineconference.com</a> Three days of smart people &amp; fun. James is revving up for his LIVE event in Denver this month June 29th-30th.  Register here:  <a href="http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind</a> Interested in more live shows?  Use Karl's code for CompTIA Free registration!  Use code: SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: <a href="https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l</a> --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Brian Hoppe Karl sits down with this week's smart person. Brian has been part of the Managed Services industry since the early 2000s. He earned both his Bachelor’s and MBA from Baylor University. For over 20 years, Brian has worked in multiple MSPs and has bought and sold multiple MSPs. He has grown multiple MSPs to over $5 million in revenue and managed MSPs in excess of $15 million in revenue. Brian has a thorough understanding of all the ins and outs of running a highly successful MSP. His expertise in leadership and coaching can help any MSP owner or CEO achieve the results they want in both business and life. He is passionate about finding the right clients for his coaching practice to help take their business and leadership to the next level. Check out more here: <a href="https://brianhoppe.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://brianhoppe.com</a> --- Segment Three: Notes on the News and MSP Question of the Week   Our QOW: What’s more important: People or Process? As for the Notes on the News... Does the Netflix crackdown on password sharing affect you? <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/23/23734725/netflix-password-sharing-us-pricing-streaming" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/23/23734725/netflix-password-sharing-us-pricing-streaming</a> Fun with Statistics: Managed Services Market is $205B worldwide...headed to to reach $594.8 B by 2031.  We gotta ask: Why not just project $595B? <a href="https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/managed-services-market-A14724" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/managed-services-market-A14724</a> --- Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at <a href="https://smallbizthoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smallbizthoughts.org</a> Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at <a href="https://smallbizthoughts.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://smallbizthoughts.org</a>

What’s more important: People or Process?

Host Amy and James take over the pod once again. Segment One: What are you up to? Amy and Karl finalize their sessions for the SMB IT Pro conference in Australia this October! There, they will discuss why retirement looks different for business owners and Amy will be doing a technical deep dive: getting Microsoft 365 Business Premium’s Endpoint detection and Response features setup. As for James, anything goes on Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/posts/james-kernan-varcoach_business-consulting-ama-activity-7064672657526456321-80QK?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop Don't forget to sign up for James's Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event - Denver June 29-30th: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Ashlyn Szilva  Ashlyn Szilva achieved her doctorate in history with a specialization in Research Analysis. She has taught as a professor of history, journalism, and photo history for 2 1/2 years. She is now the Director of Social Media and Digital Marketing for JS Group Consulting where she worked part-time during her education. She manages the social media influence and social selling strategy for over a dozen technology firms big and small and am well known for her ability to create influencers in a digital normal. She still likes to utilize her research analysis skills from her education and does so now researching trends in the channel. On top of this she also runs her own LLC, ANS Group which focuses on social media and digital marketing. --- Segment Three: The MSP Question of the Week What certifications should I be focusing to complete if I’m looking for a better position in IT? --- Sponsor Memo: SBTTC

Host Amy and James take over the pod once again. Segment One: What are you up to? Amy and Karl finalize their sessions for the SMB IT Pro conference in Australia this October! There, they will discuss why retirement looks different for business owners and Amy will be doing a technical deep dive: getting Microsoft 365 Business Premium’s Endpoint detection and Response features setup. As for James, anything goes on Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/james-kernan-varcoach_business-consulting-ama-activity-7064672657526456321-80QK?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/posts/james-kernan-varcoach_business-consulting-ama-activity-7064672657526456321-80QK?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop</a> Don't forget to sign up for James's Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event - Denver June 29-30th: <a href="http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind</a> --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Ashlyn Szilva  Ashlyn Szilva achieved her doctorate in history with a specialization in Research Analysis. She has taught as a professor of history, journalism, and photo history for 2 1/2 years. She is now the Director of Social Media and Digital Marketing for JS Group Consulting where she worked part-time during her education. She manages the social media influence and social selling strategy for over a dozen technology firms big and small and am well known for her ability to create influencers in a digital normal. She still likes to utilize her research analysis skills from her education and does so now researching trends in the channel. On top of this she also runs her own LLC, ANS Group which focuses on social media and digital marketing. --- Segment Three: The MSP Question of the Week What certifications should I be focusing to complete if I’m looking for a better position in IT? --- Sponsor Memo: SBTTC

Australia and Certifications in IT

In today's special episode, Host Karl heads out to Channel Partner's Las Vegas. We follow him on his adventures through the vendor hall. So what do these vendors have for sale and what socks do they have? Thank you to all vendors who participated in this episode!  Listed below in order:  https://www.tdsynnex.com/na/us/ https://www.ninjaone.com/ https://www.hooksecurity.co/ https://ussignal.com/ https://threatlocker.com/ https://www.scalecomputing.com/ https://pia.ai/ --- Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

In today's special episode, Host Karl heads out to Channel Partner's Las Vegas. We follow him on his adventures through the vendor hall. So what do these vendors have for sale and what socks do they have? Thank you to all vendors who participated in this episode!  Listed below in order:  <a href="https://www.tdsynnex.com/na/us/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tdsynnex.com/na/us/</a> <a href="https://www.ninjaone.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.ninjaone.com/</a> <a href="https://www.hooksecurity.co/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hooksecurity.co/</a> <a href="https://ussignal.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ussignal.com/</a> <a href="https://threatlocker.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://threatlocker.com/</a> <a href="https://www.scalecomputing.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.scalecomputing.com/</a> <a href="https://pia.ai/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://pia.ai/</a> --- Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at <a href="https://ITSPU.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://ITSPU.com</a>

Mini Episode: Karl Goes to Channel Partners!

Podcasts, articles, and reference materials for Managed Service Providers. Brought to you by internationally recognized MSP Consultant Karl W. Palachuk.

SMB Community Podcast

Josh Liberman

I caught up with my good friend Joshua Liberman for this SMB Community Podcast. Josh is a great community leader and the owner of Net Sciences in Albuquerque, NM. Joshua Liberman In this podcast, Josh walks us through the various elements they offer (and bundle) for their clients. I asked Josh to talk about this because it’s the basis for a presentation I’ve seen him make. Josh has worked on this offering for a long time – and sold a lot of these services over the last several years. Note, Josh relies on SonicWall and Datto for their key services. Since Josh brought this up, I asked him why brand names and vendors matter to him. The handout Josh mentions can be downloaded here: How We Secure Your Network. You can catch up with Josh at www.netsciences.com. Watch the interview:  Listen to the Interview (mp3)

I caught up with my good friend Joshua Liberman for this SMB Community Podcast. Josh is a great community leader and the owner of Net Sciences in Albuquerque, NM. Joshua Liberman In this podcast, Josh walks us through the various elements they offer (and bundle) for their clients. I asked Josh to talk about this because it’s the basis for a presentation I’ve seen him make. Josh has worked on this offering for a long time – and sold a lot of these services over the last several years. Note, Josh relies on SonicWall and Datto for their key services. Since Josh brought this up, I asked him why brand names and vendors matter to him. The handout Josh mentions can be downloaded here: <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Liberman-HowWeSecureYourNetwork2019.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">How We Secure Your Network</a>. You can catch up with Josh at <a href="http://www.netsciences.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.netsciences.com</a>. Watch the interview: <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/JoshuaLiberman201904.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Listen to the Interview (mp3)</a>

Josh Liberman – 12 Steps to Securing a Network

Figure

I caught up with Chris Wiser last week and grilled him on some of the secrets of creating a million dollar business. The number one need in this industry is sales, and all the elements that lead to that (leads, prospects, appointments). But, as Chris says, even if MSPs get those opportunities, they can't close "without lowering their price." Chris Wiser is the Founder and CEO of The Wiser Agency, a Digital Marketing, Coaching &amp; Sales Agency based in Austin, Texas. The Wiser Agency focuses on helping IT &amp; Managed Service Providers grow their businesses through Online Marketing, Advertising, and Sales Training. The Wiser Agency's '7 Figure MSP' system currently has over 200 clients all on their way to adding 7 Figures of revenue to their businesses this year. You can apply to be a partner at www.7figuremsp.com. Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/OfficialChrisWiser LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cwiser Web: www.chriswiser.com Web: www.thewiseragency.com   :-)

I caught up with Chris Wiser last week and grilled him on some of the secrets of creating a million dollar business. The number one need in this industry is sales, and all the elements that lead to that (leads, prospects, appointments). But, as Chris says, even if MSPs get those opportunities, they can't close "without lowering their price." Chris Wiser is the Founder and CEO of The Wiser Agency, a Digital Marketing, Coaching &amp; Sales Agency based in Austin, Texas. The Wiser Agency focuses on helping IT &amp; Managed Service Providers grow their businesses through Online Marketing, Advertising, and Sales Training. The Wiser Agency's '7 Figure MSP' system currently has over 200 clients all on their way to adding 7 Figures of revenue to their businesses this year. You can apply to be a partner at <a href="http://www.7figuremsp.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.7figuremsp.com</a>. Facebook Group: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/OfficialChrisWiser" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/OfficialChrisWiser</a> LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiser" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/in/cwiser</a> Web: <a href="http://www.chriswiser.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.chriswiser.com</a> Web: <a href="http://www.thewiseragency.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thewiseragency.com</a> :-)

Chris Wiser on Running a 7 Figure MSP

Harry Brelsford

I was happy to interview Harry on the official announcement of his new book – How to Be An MSP. It is now officially released. In this interview, Harry also announces another new adventure: A serious focus on the cannabis industry as the largest new vertical opportunity for the next ten years. Harry is also launching a new site, effective immediately: http://420msp.com/ I have read the new book and am honored to have written the Foreword. The new book is a great introduction to exactly what it promises: How to Be An MSP. Many of you know that Harry has previously written books on how to be a successful Small Business Consultant. Well, this is literally a new book on that topic – designed for the 2020’s! In addition to the core focus on building a profitable IT consulting practice, the book takes a deep dive into the hottest new vertical market in North America: The cannabis and CBD market. This is a huge industry that requires an amazing amount of technology Learn about the book here: https://420msp.com/buy-the-book/C Visit the new 420 MSP site here: https://420msp.com Watch the interview:  Listen to the Interview (mp3)

I was happy to interview Harry on the official announcement of his new book – <a href="http://420msp.com/buy-the-book/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">How to Be An MSP</a>. It is now officially released. In this interview, Harry also announces another new adventure: A serious focus on the cannabis industry as the largest new vertical opportunity for the next ten years. Harry is also launching a new site, effective immediately: <a href="http://420msp.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://420msp.com/</a> I have read the new book and am honored to have written the Foreword. The new book is a great introduction to exactly what it promises: How to Be An MSP. Many of you know that Harry has previously written books on how to be a successful Small Business Consultant. Well, this is literally a new book on that topic – designed for the 2020’s! In addition to the core focus on building a profitable IT consulting practice, the book takes a deep dive into the hottest new vertical market in North America: The cannabis and CBD market. This is a huge industry that requires an amazing amount of technology Learn about the book here: <a href="https://420msp.com/buy-the-book/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://420msp.com/buy-the-book/</a>C Visit the new 420 MSP site here: <a href="https://420msp.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://420msp.com</a> Watch the interview: <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/HarryBrelsford201904.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Listen to the Interview (mp3)</a>

Harry Brelsford Announces New Book: How to Be an MSP

Today's guest is Mr. Tim Taylor, author of How to Start and Run a Successful I.T. Company - Without Using your Shirt, available on Amazon, Amazon Kindle, and Audible.   Tim is from Memphis, TN. He has always worked in the IT field. When he was 40, he started his own practice out of the trunk of his car. Today, he runs a multi-million dollar practice in Florida and employs over 15 people.   Tim Taylor   Tim likes to help people just starting out or struggling in their MS practices. He specializes in helping people turn around their companies and making them profitable.   Links:    www.timtaylorconsulting.com Facebook      :-)

Today's guest is Mr. Tim Taylor, author of How to Start and Run a Successful I.T. Company - Without Using your Shirt, available on Amazon, Amazon Kindle, and Audible. Tim is from Memphis, TN. He has always worked in the IT field. When he was 40, he started his own practice out of the trunk of his car. Today, he runs a multi-million dollar practice in Florida and employs over 15 people. Tim Taylor Tim likes to help people just starting out or struggling in their MS practices. He specializes in helping people turn around their companies and making them profitable. Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.timtaylorconsulting.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.timtaylorconsulting.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100036242048174" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a></li> </ul> :-)

How to Start and Run a Successful I.T. Company - Without Using your Shirt

Alex Hoff

I interviewed Alex Hoff from Auvik from my hotel room in Chicago. Topic: Managed Network Services: Your Next Critical Opportunity. Best comment is that entrepreneurs always go where the white space is. Love that. Whenever you create an offering, you need to go where very few people (or no one) are hanging around. Auvik allows you to monitor complex client networks – with a specific focus on more complicated networks. That means more than just V-LANS: They excel at monitoring networks that stretch across cities, clouds, and various services. As Alex says, we can’t stay focused just the equipment inside a client’s office. The chokepoint might be somewhere else. And with multiple cloud offerings that you don’t control, it’s important to know that everything’s working as advertized. Links:  www.Auvik.com   email: ROI@Auvik.com   The Frankly MSP Resource Centre: auvik.com/franklyMSP Blogs for MSPs: auvik.com/franklymsp/blog/ Auvik on Twitter: @AuvikNetworks Auvik on LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/company/auvik-networks-inc- Auvik on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuvikNetworksInc  Alex offered a great network assessment starter kit you can get my emailing to ROI@auvik.com. Instructions bounce back. I did this and received a zip file with a great set of resources. Free. Watch the interview:  Listen to the Interview (mp3)

I interviewed Alex Hoff from Auvik from my hotel room in Chicago. Topic: Managed Network Services: Your Next Critical Opportunity. Best comment is that entrepreneurs always go where the white space is. Love that. Whenever you create an offering, you need to go where very few people (or no one) are hanging around. Auvik allows you to monitor complex client networks – with a specific focus on more complicated networks. That means more than just V-LANS: They excel at monitoring networks that stretch across cities, clouds, and various services. As Alex says, we can’t stay focused just the equipment inside a client’s office. The chokepoint might be somewhere else. And with multiple cloud offerings that you don’t control, it’s important to know that everything’s working as advertized. Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.Auvik.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.Auvik.com</a></li> </ul> <ul> <li>email: <a href="mailto:ROI@Auvik.com" rel="noreferrer noopener">ROI@Auvik.com</a></li> </ul> <ul> <li>The Frankly MSP Resource Centre: <a href="http://auvik.com/franklyMSP" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">auvik.com/franklyMSP</a></li> <li>Blogs for MSPs: <a href="http://auvik.com/franklymsp/blog/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">auvik.com/franklymsp/blog/</a></li> <li>Auvik on Twitter: @AuvikNetworks</li> <li>Auvik on LinkedIn: <a href="http://ca.linkedin.com/company/auvik-networks-inc-" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">ca.linkedin.com/company/auvik-networks-inc-</a></li> <li>Auvik on Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AuvikNetworksInc" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/AuvikNetworksInc</a></li> </ul> Alex offered a great network assessment starter kit you can get my emailing to ROI@auvik.com. Instructions bounce back. I did this and received a zip file with a great set of resources. Free. Watch the interview: <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/AlexHoff201903.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Listen to the Interview (mp3)</a>

Alex Hoff on Network Management in the Cloud Era

IoT Playbook - Part of the ChannelPro Network I interviewed Mark Smith from ChannelPro Network and IoT Playbook. Smith has been in IT for more than 25 years. He was the founder of Windows NT Magazine, a global media company that helped over 1M IT professionals. Mark is the Host of IoT Playbook, part of the ChannelPro Network. IoTPlaybook is on a mission to find the early IoTMSP pioneers and get them to reveal their playbooks so that you benefit from the lessons they’ve learned from the hard way. Playbooks show you the strategies, the business models, the technology stack, the marketing &amp; sales angles, and everything else you need to succeed with each IoT managed service we cover. Playbooks are designed to apply in your business right now. Why you need to add IoT Managed Services to your business now Links:  podcast.iotplaybook.com www.FreeIoTClass.com  :-)

IoT Playbook - Part of the ChannelPro Network I interviewed Mark Smith from ChannelPro Network and IoT Playbook. Smith has been in IT for more than 25 years. He was the founder of Windows NT Magazine, a global media company that helped over 1M IT professionals. Mark is the Host of IoT Playbook, part of the ChannelPro Network. IoTPlaybook is on a mission to find the early IoTMSP pioneers and get them to reveal their playbooks so that you benefit from the lessons they’ve learned from the hard way. Playbooks show you the strategies, the business models, the technology stack, the marketing &amp; sales angles, and everything else you need to succeed with each IoT managed service we cover. Playbooks are designed to apply in your business right now. Why you need to add IoT Managed Services to your business now Links: <ul> <li><a href="https://podcast.iotplaybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcast.iotplaybook.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.FreeIoTClass.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.FreeIoTClass.com</a></li> </ul> :-)

Why you need to add IoT Managed Services to your business now

Jay McBain

Jay McBain is Forrester's Principal Analyst, Channels, Partnership, and Alliances. He's always fun to talk to. And get ready to listen to this one two or three times. Jay drops numbers all the time. So go get a pencil before you hit "play." You can connect with Jay at:   https://go.forrester.com/blogs/author/jay_mcbain/  Jay is one of the most visible thought leaders in the global technology channel. He was named to the Top 40 Under Forty by the Business Review as well as numerous channel media top influencer lists, he is often sought out for industry guidance and future trends. He has spent his 25 year career in various executive channel sales, marketing, and strategy roles within IBM, Lenovo, Autotask, and ChannelEyes. A few quick stats: Jay counts  54 Channel magazines across 200 countries 150 tradeshows A dozen associations Plus peer groups 80 LinkedIn groups 30 Facebook Groups and about 600,000 channel service companies overall  The conversation covers a lot of ground. I promise you'll get a "bigger" picture of the world you compete it. :-)

Jay McBain is Forrester's Principal Analyst, Channels, Partnership, and Alliances. He's always fun to talk to. And get ready to listen to this one two or three times. Jay drops numbers all the time. So go get a pencil before you hit "play." You can connect with Jay at:  <ul> <li><a href="https://go.forrester.com/blogs/author/jay_mcbain/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://go.forrester.com/blogs/author/jay_mcbain/</a></li> </ul> Jay is one of the most visible thought leaders in the global technology channel. He was named to the Top 40 Under Forty by the Business Review as well as numerous channel media top influencer lists, he is often sought out for industry guidance and future trends. He has spent his 25 year career in various executive channel sales, marketing, and strategy roles within IBM, Lenovo, Autotask, and ChannelEyes. A few quick stats: Jay counts <ul> <li>54 Channel magazines</li> <li>across 200 countries</li> <li>150 tradeshows</li> <li>A dozen associations</li> <li>Plus peer groups</li> <li>80 LinkedIn groups</li> <li>30 Facebook Groups</li> <li>and about 600,000 channel service companies overall</li> </ul> The conversation covers a lot of ground. I promise you'll get a "bigger" picture of the world you compete it. :-)

Jay McBain: 70% of MSPs want to get out!

I interviewed Pete Langas from Nerdio – GetNerdio.com. Pete is the Sr. Director of Strategic Partnership and Distribution at Nerdio. Nerdio empowers managed service providers to build and/or rapidly grow their cloud IT practices through what Pete calls a “ridiculously simple IT management platform” for public and private cloud. Nerdio for Azure is the first IT automation technology that delivers easy packaging, pricing, provisioning, ongoing management, and cost-optimization to complete IT environments in the Microsoft cloud. Nerdio Private Cloud is a fully integrated platform that delivers a comprehensive IT environment at your fingertips – including virtual hardware, software, security, backup and disaster recovery, and 24/7 tech-nerd support. Pete Langas Without Nerdio for Azure, an unoptimized IT environment running in Azure is higher cost than on-premises. You also need expensive engineers to onboard and manage customers in Azure. With Nerdio, you can automatically deploy a complete IT environment in Azure within 2 hours, and without an engineer. Thanks to Nerdio’s cost estimator, pricing out Nerdio for Azure is super simple. It easily enables MSPs to comprehensively calculate the costs and savings of running IT in the Microsoft cloud We talked about several elements of getting started with cloud services for MSPs. In particular, if you’re a Microsoft and have access to Azure as part of that partnership, Pete encourages you to deploy those Azure resources with Nerdio as a was to get experience with both products. Nerdio Links:  getnerdio.com getnerdio.com/blogs twitter.com/getnerdio www.linkedin.com/company/getnerdio www.facebook.com/GetNerdio  Watch the interview: Listen to the Interview (mp3)

I interviewed Pete Langas from Nerdio – <a href="http://www.GetNerdio.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">GetNerdio.com</a>. Pete is the Sr. Director of Strategic Partnership and Distribution at Nerdio. Nerdio empowers managed service providers to build and/or rapidly grow their cloud IT practices through what Pete calls a “ridiculously simple IT management platform” for public and private cloud. Nerdio for Azure is the first IT automation technology that delivers easy packaging, pricing, provisioning, ongoing management, and cost-optimization to complete IT environments in the Microsoft cloud. Nerdio Private Cloud is a fully integrated platform that delivers a comprehensive IT environment at your fingertips – including virtual hardware, software, security, backup and disaster recovery, and 24/7 tech-nerd support. Pete Langas Without Nerdio for Azure, an unoptimized IT environment running in Azure is higher cost than on-premises. You also need expensive engineers to onboard and manage customers in Azure. With Nerdio, you can automatically deploy a complete IT environment in Azure within 2 hours, and without an engineer. Thanks to Nerdio’s cost estimator, pricing out Nerdio for Azure is super simple. It easily enables MSPs to comprehensively calculate the costs and savings of running IT in the Microsoft cloud We talked about several elements of getting started with cloud services for MSPs. In particular, if you’re a Microsoft and have access to Azure as part of that partnership, Pete encourages you to deploy those Azure resources with Nerdio as a was to get experience with both products. Nerdio Links: <ul> <li><a href="http://getnerdio.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">getnerdio.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://getnerdio.com/blogs" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">getnerdio.com/blogs</a></li> <li><a href="http://twitter.com/getnerdio" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">twitter.com/getnerdio</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/getnerdio" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/getnerdio</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/GetNerdio" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/GetNerdio</a></li> </ul> Watch the interview: <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/PeteLangasNerdio201902.mp3" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Listen to the Interview (mp3)</a>

Accelerate Azure Deployment with Nerdio

Dave Sobel

Had a great impromptu chat with Dave Sobel from MSP Radio and The Business of Tech (and the Killing IT podcast). Dave has spent his time as both an IT Service Provider and a vendor. Now he is jumping into a new venture as an analyst and new reporter. If you haven't checked it out already, head over to MSP Radio and subscribe to The Business of Tech - his daily five-minute podcast. Great stuff. Dave mentions three important rules he's set for himself going forward: 1) Do things that are big, different, and significant 2) Don't talk to product marketing managers 3) Never sit on another pricing panel at conferences Find out what's behind these and how they affect what he's up to. I happen to know Dave has some pretty big things planned with MSP Radio, so tune in now and stay tuned. Revevant Links: MSP Radio: https://www.mspradio.com/ Killing IT Podcast: https://killingit.smallbizthoughts.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davesobel/ :-)

Had a great impromptu chat with Dave Sobel from MSP Radio and The Business of Tech (and the Killing IT podcast). Dave has spent his time as both an IT Service Provider and a vendor. Now he is jumping into a new venture as an analyst and new reporter. If you haven't checked it out already, head over to <a href="https://www.mspradio.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MSP Radio</a> and subscribe to The Business of Tech - his daily five-minute podcast. Great stuff. Dave mentions three important rules he's set for himself going forward: 1) Do things that are big, different, and significant 2) Don't talk to product marketing managers 3) Never sit on another pricing panel at conferences Find out what's behind these and how they affect what he's up to. I happen to know Dave has some pretty big things planned with MSP Radio, so tune in now and stay tuned. Revevant Links: MSP Radio: <a href="https://www.mspradio.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.mspradio.com/</a> Killing IT Podcast: <a href="https://killingit.smallbizthoughts.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://killingit.smallbizthoughts.com</a> LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/davesobel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/davesobel/</a> :-)

Dave Sobel and the Business of Tech

Len DiCostanzo

Many people know Len DiCostanzo from his years at Autotask and Datto. Now he’s out on his own, helping IT consultants under the moniker MSP Toolkit. Len is a huge fan of ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) and best practices. He’s also dedicated to models that focus on recurring revenue. I ran into Len at the NexGen Conference and Expo in December. We sat in on each others’ sessions and took notes about each others’ advice. We mostly agree on best practices! A mainstay of the channel community, Len provides thought leadership and best practice guidance to technology channel vendors, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and other Business Technology Service Providers (BTSPs). Most recently, Len was SVP of Channel Development at Datto where he focused on helping partners drive recurring revenue with Datto’s cloud-based solution portfolio. Len was with Autotask for a decade prior to Autotask being acquired by Vista Equity Partners for the second time, and merging with Datto in December 2017. You can find him at MSPToolkit.com – where he helps both vendors and MSPs. He helps MSPs get the right processes and procedures in place. He helps vendors find a broader audience in the MSP space. Watch the interview: Len is very well steeped in the ITIL best practices for ITSM (IT Service Management). In this interview, he gives some great guidance about how you approach problems (or are they incidents?) with clients. As you’ll see, Len’s a firm believer that our industry is better off when more of us follow these best practices. Len has a few introductory offers. Contact him (email is in the video) to find out more about how you can engage him. Listen to the Interview (mp3)

Many people know Len DiCostanzo from his years at Autotask and Datto. Now he’s out on his own, helping IT consultants under the moniker MSP Toolkit. Len is a huge fan of ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) and best practices. He’s also dedicated to models that focus on recurring revenue. I ran into Len at the NexGen Conference and Expo in December. We sat in on each others’ sessions and took notes about each others’ advice. We mostly agree on best practices! A mainstay of the channel community, Len provides thought leadership and best practice guidance to technology channel vendors, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and other Business Technology Service Providers (BTSPs). Most recently, Len was SVP of Channel Development at Datto where he focused on helping partners drive recurring revenue with Datto’s cloud-based solution portfolio. Len was with Autotask for a decade prior to Autotask being acquired by Vista Equity Partners for the second time, and merging with Datto in December 2017. You can find him at <a href="http://MSPToolkit.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">MSPToolkit.com</a> – where he helps both vendors and MSPs. He helps MSPs get the right processes and procedures in place. He helps vendors find a broader audience in the MSP space. Watch the interview: Len is very well steeped in the ITIL best practices for ITSM (IT Service Management). In this interview, he gives some great guidance about how you approach problems (or are they incidents?) with clients. As you’ll see, Len’s a firm believer that our industry is better off when more of us follow these best practices. Len has a few introductory offers. Contact him (email is in the video) to find out more about how you can engage him. <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/LenDiCostanzo201901.mp3" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Listen to the Interview (mp3)</a>

Len DiCostanzo Launches MSP Toolkit

Nigel Moore

I had a great chat with my old friend Nigel Moore from Australia about his new book, Package Price Profit.      (You can buy it on  Amazon in paperback or Kindle edition.)   This book is a great overview of pricing and bundling options in the IT service industry. I particularly love his analogy about so-called All You Can Eat: Everything at the buffet is included. If you want us to make a special dish for you, that's not included!   Of course Nigel is also the founder of the Tech Tribe - www.thetechtribe.com. So we chatted about that a bit.   The official book site is www.packagepriceprofit.com.     :-)

I had a great chat with my old friend Nigel Moore from Australia about his new book, Package Price Profit. (You can buy it on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Package-Price-Profit-Essential-Packaging/dp/0648656403/ref=sr_1_1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Amazon in paperback or Kindle edition</a>.) This book is a great overview of pricing and bundling options in the IT service industry. I particularly love his analogy about so-called All You Can Eat: Everything at the buffet is included. If you want us to make a special dish for you, that's not included! Of course Nigel is also the founder of the Tech Tribe - <a href="https://www.thetechtribe.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thetechtribe.com</a>. So we chatted about that a bit. The official book site is <a href="http://www.packagepriceprofit.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.packagepriceprofit.com</a>. :-)

Nigel Moore - Package Price Profit

I had a great chat with my old friend Nigel Moore from Australia about his new book, Package Price Profit. (You can buy it on  Amazon in paperback or Kindle edition.) This book is a great overview of pricing and bundling options in the IT service industry. I particularly love his analogy about so-called All You Can Eat: Everything at the buffet is included. If you want us to make a special dish for you, that's not included! Of course Nigel is also the founder of the Tech Tribe - www.thetechtribe.com. So we chatted about that a bit.   The official book site is www.packagepriceprofit.com.   :-)

I had a great chat with my old friend Nigel Moore from Australia about his new book, Package Price Profit. (You can buy it on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Package-Price-Profit-Essential-Packaging/dp/0648656403/ref=sr_1_1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Amazon in paperback or Kindle edition</a>.) This book is a great overview of pricing and bundling options in the IT service industry. I particularly love his analogy about so-called All You Can Eat: Everything at the buffet is included. If you want us to make a special dish for you, that's not included! Of course Nigel is also the founder of the Tech Tribe - <a href="https://www.thetechtribe.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thetechtribe.com</a>. So we chatted about that a bit. The official book site is <a href="http://www.packagepriceprofit.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.packagepriceprofit.com</a>. :-)

I caught up with Terry Hedden from Marketopia for this podcast. Normally, I see Terry on the road, but we're going to miss each other for the next few months. AND he's got a big sales coaching event coming up while I'm down in Australia.     So, it was good to catch up on the podcast.   Terry started out as an IT service provider. He built and sold a 49 person MSP in 6 years. Now he runs Marketopia, the largest demand generation firm for MSPs.   Marketopia provides outsourced marketing and outbound lead generation. As Terry says, they are most successful when an MSP lets them run the lead generation based on their proven process. In other words, when you try to do it differently, you are likely to be less successful. :-)   This interview has a lot of detail on the services Marketopia offers (including some very good pricing information).   In October, Marketopia is putting on a training event called 4U2Grow - see https://www.4u2grow.com/ for more information. The conference is October 8-11.   Primary web site: https://www.marketopia.com/       :-)

I caught up with Terry Hedden from Marketopia for this podcast. Normally, I see Terry on the road, but we're going to miss each other for the next few months. AND he's got a big sales coaching event coming up while I'm down in Australia. So, it was good to catch up on the podcast. Terry started out as an IT service provider. He built and sold a 49 person MSP in 6 years. Now he runs Marketopia, the largest demand generation firm for MSPs. Marketopia provides outsourced marketing and outbound lead generation. As Terry says, they are most successful when an MSP lets them run the lead generation based on their proven process. In other words, when you try to do it differently, you are likely to be less successful. :-) This interview has a lot of detail on the services Marketopia offers (including some very good pricing information). In October, Marketopia is putting on a training event called 4U2Grow - see <a href="https://www.4u2grow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.4u2grow.com/</a> for more information. The conference is October 8-11. Primary web site: <a href="https://www.marketopia.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.marketopia.com/</a> :-)

Generate an Endless Supply of MSP Leads

Dominica DeGrandis

Dominica DeGrandis is Director of Digital Transformation at Tasktop, where she helps customers improve the flow of work across value streams. Responsible for introducing customers to flow-based aspects of digital transformation, she guides IT teams and business teams to learn and adopt new ways of working to improve performance. Dominica is the author of “Making Work Visible: Exposing Time Theft to Optimize Work &amp; Flow.” She is a huge fan of using visual cues to reveal mutually critical information across organizations to inspire change and spur alignment. Dominica lives in Seattle, WA with her husband and extended family. Dominica DeGrandis Here we talk about metrics, work flow, and the great benefits of minimizing WIP – work in progress. We also talked about engaging managers in the discussion of work flow and metrics. DeGrandis is excellent at seeing how processes work and finding ways to help participants literally see how work flows through the system. She advocates using Kanban boards to create a view of what’s going on at various levels in an organization. This can also help individuals see how their specific metrics affect the larger business goals. We also discussed the topic of “Priority vs. Calendar.” DeGrandis has a talk on this subject. She talks about The 30 Minute Jam, the All Day Cram, and the Triple-Book Wham. Many people – especially creative people – need large blocks of time on the calendar in order to reach and maintain “flow” and get quality work done. I love her assertion that most people have more control over their calendar than they believe. Lots of good stuff here. Enjoy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hk_9ZRIGQP8

Dominica DeGrandis is Director of Digital Transformation at Tasktop, where she helps customers improve the flow of work across value streams. Responsible for introducing customers to flow-based aspects of digital transformation, she guides IT teams and business teams to learn and adopt new ways of working to improve performance. Dominica is the author of “Making Work Visible: Exposing Time Theft to Optimize Work &amp; Flow.” She is a huge fan of using visual cues to reveal mutually critical information across organizations to inspire change and spur alignment. Dominica lives in Seattle, WA with her husband and extended family. Dominica DeGrandis Here we talk about metrics, work flow, and the great benefits of minimizing WIP – work in progress. We also talked about engaging managers in the discussion of work flow and metrics. DeGrandis is excellent at seeing how processes work and finding ways to help participants literally see how work flows through the system. She advocates using Kanban boards to create a view of what’s going on at various levels in an organization. This can also help individuals see how their specific metrics affect the larger business goals. We also discussed the topic of “Priority vs. Calendar.” DeGrandis has a talk on this subject. She talks about The 30 Minute Jam, the All Day Cram, and the Triple-Book Wham. Many people – especially creative people – need large blocks of time on the calendar in order to reach and maintain “flow” and get quality work done. I love her assertion that most people have more control over their calendar than they believe. Lots of good stuff here. Enjoy! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hk_9ZRIGQP8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hk_9ZRIGQP8</a>

Making Work Visible with Dominica DeGrandis

Allen Edwards

I met Allen Edwards all the way back in April of this year. I’ve already seem him at events in two states. We even shared a beer (or two) in Albuquerque. Allen help IT Professionals create great processes. Allen Edwards began his I.T. career in 1994. He founded his first I.T. company in 2002, and in ten short years led his firm through a transition from break/fix to MSP, from custom ticketing to AutoTask before moving to ConnectWise Manage, and a final sale of the business. A sought-after MSP and Process expert, Allen helps Business Leaders and their teams while building meaningful, growth-centered relationships that support next level performance. Link: https://EurekaProcess.com Enjoy the video interview: Download Audio:

I met Allen Edwards all the way back in April of this year. I’ve already seem him at events in two states. We even shared a beer (or two) in Albuquerque. Allen help IT Professionals create great processes. Allen Edwards began his I.T. career in 1994. He founded his first I.T. company in 2002, and in ten short years led his firm through a transition from break/fix to MSP, from custom ticketing to AutoTask before moving to ConnectWise Manage, and a final sale of the business. A sought-after MSP and Process expert, Allen helps Business Leaders and their teams while building meaningful, growth-centered relationships that support next level performance. Link: <a href="https://EurekaProcess.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://EurekaProcess.com</a> Enjoy the video interview: Download Audio:

Allen Edwards – The Eureka Process

This SMB Community Podcast is the fifth in a six-part series entitled Take Control and the Customer Experience, with Dave Sobel, Senior Director of MSP Evangelism at SolarWinds MSP.  In this episode, we touch on many features of the Take Control tool designed to help you improve and manage the Customer Experience with your technology consulting business. Some of these features are built in (and configurable/customizable). Others come into play as a result of agreements or policy decisions you make with the client. Offline options = Create business-focused policies. e.g., what is “privacy” at each client? Work with the client to help them to create their employee-facing policy regarding monitoring and privacy. And of course you can agree on the level of reporting that clients will receive. In fact, you can use this to help the client set policies about which software you are authorized to uninstall and what kind of reporting they expect regarding their employees’ computing habits. Dave mentions that you can set higher priority for your managed service clients vs. break/fix clients or folks who aren’t customers yet at all. As we mentioned in another podcast, you can use the Take Control app to help the client create terms of service. This is great for setting expectations with your primary contact as well as with end users. Dave explains how you can use Take Control to set up a “help desk” queue so users actually get estimated wait times as well as notices about where they are in the queue. This can relieve end user anxiety and frustration. This can be used for existing clients via a button on your web site. In fact, it can be used for strangers to go through your web site and request help. Dave calls that a “sales lead.” We also touch on juggling simultaneous sessions, providing client training, focusing on one-to-one communications, getting the most out of the licenses As always, lots of good information here. Listen today and download a free trial! Podcasts in this series include:   What to Look for In a Remote Support Tool  Making Money – Break Fix vs. Managed Services  Implementing Your Cloud Services Bundle Remote Control – A New Hope for Security Manage the Customer Experience/Manage the Customer Relationship (this one) Remote Control as the Ultimate Sales Tool  Tune in next Thursday for episode six!     Free test drive of SolarWinds MSP Take Control at https://www.solarwindsmsp.com/products/take-control Watch the video podcast: ﻿﻿﻿﻿ This interview is about 15 minutes. Audio Listen to the Podcast.

This SMB Community Podcast is the fifth in a six-part series entitled Take Control and the Customer Experience, with Dave Sobel, Senior Director of MSP Evangelism at SolarWinds MSP. In this episode, we touch on many features of the Take Control tool designed to help you improve and manage the Customer Experience with your technology consulting business. Some of these features are built in (and configurable/customizable). Others come into play as a result of agreements or policy decisions you make with the client. Offline options = Create business-focused policies. e.g., what is “privacy” at each client? Work with the client to help them to create their employee-facing policy regarding monitoring and privacy. And of course you can agree on the level of reporting that clients will receive. In fact, you can use this to help the client set policies about which software you are authorized to uninstall and what kind of reporting they expect regarding their employees’ computing habits. Dave mentions that you can set higher priority for your managed service clients vs. break/fix clients or folks who aren’t customers yet at all. As we mentioned in another podcast, you can use the Take Control app to help the client create terms of service. This is great for setting expectations with your primary contact as well as with end users. Dave explains how you can use Take Control to set up a “help desk” queue so users actually get estimated wait times as well as notices about where they are in the queue. This can relieve end user anxiety and frustration. This can be used for existing clients via a button on your web site. In fact, it can be used for strangers to go through your web site and request help. Dave calls that a “sales lead.” We also touch on juggling simultaneous sessions, providing client training, focusing on one-to-one communications, getting the most out of the licenses As always, lots of good information here. Listen today and download a free trial! Podcasts in this series include: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/2018/11/what-to-look-for-in-a-remote-support-tool-with-dave-sobel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> What to Look for In a Remote Support Tool</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/2018/11/break-fix-vs-managed-services-dave-sobel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Making Money – Break Fix vs. Managed Services</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/2018/11/successfully-implement-cloud-service-bundle/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Implementing Your Cloud Services Bundle</a></li> <li>Remote Control – A New Hope for Security</li> <li>Manage the Customer Experience/Manage the Customer Relationship (this one)</li> <li>Remote Control as the Ultimate Sales Tool</li> </ul> Tune in next Thursday for episode six! <a href="https://pages.solarwindsmsp.com/karl-palachuk.html?utm_campaign=tc-na-t-wb-smallbizthoughts-karl_p_trial_promotion-10_23_2018&amp;utm_source=smallbizthoughts&amp;utm_medium=webinar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a> Free test drive of SolarWinds MSP Take Control at <a href="https://pages.solarwindsmsp.com/karl-palachuk.html?utm_campaign=tc-na-t-wb-smallbizthoughts-karl_p_trial_promotion-10_23_2018&amp;utm_source=smallbizthoughts&amp;utm_medium=webinar" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.solarwindsmsp.com/products/take-control</a> Watch the video podcast: ﻿﻿﻿﻿ This interview is about 15 minutes. Audio <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/SW-Podcast-5.mp3" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Listen to the Podcast</a>.

Take Control and the Customer Experience

I caught up with Rayanne Buchianico from Sell My MSP (http://www.sellmymsp.com). She gave us the big update on their 2019 Refresh. It’s more than a web site update. They’ve got a new valuation tool and more. Rayanne Buchianico Rayanne owns ABC Solutions in Clearwater, FL. She help MSPs get their finances straightened in order to run their company most efficiently. As you can imagine, this includes some great skills that will help MSPs as they start looking at selling their companies. ABC Solutions is a public accounting firm in Clearwater, FL. They focus on helping MSPs with accounting and bookkeeping services. Rayanne created the very cool valuation tool you’ll find at sellmymsp.com. That tool is newly reconfigured to look at Gross Revenue, Gross Profit, or EBITDA prices. Rayanne discusses this a bit in the interview. We cover a lot of territory here, including both the buyers’ and the sellers’ perspectives. We also talk about the practical side of cleaning up your profit and loss statement so you’re ready to go on the market. Yes, we discuss fees with complete transparency. Of course Rayanne will help you with the work of fixing your P&amp;L if you need that. Such services are not included in the listing fee, of course. My favorite surprising note from this interview: Even if you’re not profitable, your clients might be worth something! Obviously, there’s more money with more profit. But your business is probably worth something even if you don’t make a big profit! Disclaimer: I have used Rayanne’s Company (ABC Solutions) to help me revise, update, and “fix” my QuickBooks accounts. I receive no money or even a tall beer if you spend your money with ABC Solutions or Sell My MSP. Also: The FTC has no idea how business works in the real world. Side note: Rayanne is teaching a class on maximizing your financials starting August 6th. It’s called Financial Services for the IT Services Industry. See www.greatlittleseminar.com. Another favorite note: There are two types of business owners. One maximizes tax deductions and shows no profit on the bottom line. The other maximizes profit and ends up paying more taxes. ONE of these is far more valuable on the day you sell your business.

I caught up with Rayanne Buchianico from Sell My MSP (<a href="http://www.sellmymsp.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.sellmymsp.com</a>). She gave us the big update on their 2019 Refresh. It’s more than a web site update. They’ve got a new valuation tool and more. Rayanne Buchianico Rayanne owns ABC Solutions in Clearwater, FL. She help MSPs get their finances straightened in order to run their company most efficiently. As you can imagine, this includes some great skills that will help MSPs as they start looking at selling their companies. ABC Solutions is a public accounting firm in Clearwater, FL. They focus on helping MSPs with accounting and bookkeeping services. Rayanne created the very cool valuation tool you’ll find at <a href="https://sellmymsp.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">sellmymsp.com</a>. That tool is newly reconfigured to look at Gross Revenue, Gross Profit, or EBITDA prices. Rayanne discusses this a bit in the interview. We cover a lot of territory here, including both the buyers’ and the sellers’ perspectives. We also talk about the practical side of cleaning up your profit and loss statement so you’re ready to go on the market. Yes, we discuss fees with complete transparency. Of course Rayanne will help you with the work of fixing your P&amp;L if you need that. Such services are not included in the listing fee, of course. My favorite surprising note from this interview: Even if you’re not profitable, your clients might be worth something! Obviously, there’s more money with more profit. But your business is probably worth something even if you don’t make a big profit! Disclaimer: I have used Rayanne’s Company (ABC Solutions) to help me revise, update, and “fix” my QuickBooks accounts. I receive no money or even a tall beer if you spend your money with ABC Solutions or Sell My MSP. Also: The FTC has no idea how business works in the real world. Side note: Rayanne is teaching a class on maximizing your financials starting August 6th. It’s called Financial Services for the IT Services Industry. See <a href="https://www.greatlittleseminar.com/5-week-courses/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.greatlittleseminar.com</a>. Another favorite note: There are two types of business owners. One maximizes tax deductions and shows no profit on the bottom line. The other maximizes profit and ends up paying more taxes. ONE of these is far more valuable on the day you sell your business.

Sell My MSP – 2019 Refresh

Jamison West

I think I met Jamison about 2006 at SMB Nation. Since then, he has bought a few companies, built a few companies, and sold a few companies. Even today he owns a few companies.   He calls himself a serial entrepreneur, but I consider that a parallel entrepreneur. Personally, I think all small business owners should have at least two companies. But that's another story.   Here we chat a bit about TimeZest, a calendaring add-on for ConnectWise. Then we move to EOS - the Entrepreneurial Operating System - as described by Gino Wickman in his book Traction.   There are many, many books filled with advice for business owners. Jamison likes the EOS model because it is most easily applied to small business. In fact, as he says, it can be self-applied without a coach.   But there are some obvious advantages to having a coach who can help you have those difficult meetings and keep things moving when you get stuck in the weeds.   Jamison has been a "serial entrepreneur" for over 20 years. He has a wealth of experience in several areas include: Founding and operating companies in the SaaS and IT Services space; participating in and moderating professional peer groups (HTG &amp; EO); advising organizations in the SaaS and IT Services verticals; speaking on a range of topics from Cloud to M&amp;A to People, and implementing EOS®.   Links: - www.jamisonwest.com - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamisonwest/    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxLTHiFo3UE   Listen here:     :-)

I think I met Jamison about 2006 at SMB Nation. Since then, he has bought a few companies, built a few companies, and sold a few companies. Even today he owns a few companies. He calls himself a serial entrepreneur, but I consider that a parallel entrepreneur. Personally, I think all small business owners should have at least two companies. But that's another story. Here we chat a bit about TimeZest, a calendaring add-on for ConnectWise. Then we move to EOS - the Entrepreneurial Operating System - as described by Gino Wickman in his book Traction. There are many, many books filled with advice for business owners. Jamison likes the EOS model because it is most easily applied to small business. In fact, as he says, it can be self-applied without a coach. But there are some obvious advantages to having a coach who can help you have those difficult meetings and keep things moving when you get stuck in the weeds. Jamison has been a "serial entrepreneur" for over 20 years. He has a wealth of experience in several areas include: Founding and operating companies in the SaaS and IT Services space; participating in and moderating professional peer groups (HTG &amp; EO); advising organizations in the SaaS and IT Services verticals; speaking on a range of topics from Cloud to M&amp;A to People, and implementing EOS®. Links: - <a href="https://www.jamisonwest.com" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.jamisonwest.com</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamisonwest/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamisonwest/</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxLTHiFo3UE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxLTHiFo3UE</a> Listen here: :-)

Jamison West - EOS and More

I interviewed Keith Gillette, founder of TaskTrain, a new documentation tool for checklists and procedures. He describes TaskTrain as "A practical tool to scale your business by eliminating avoidable errors &amp; increasing operational efficiency. Keith Gillette is a "process pragmatist" and Founder/CEO of TaskTrain, a process management SaaS application streamlined for SMBs. Keith has more than 25 years of IT operations management experience in both embedded and virtual CIO roles. He holds a Master of Science in Information &amp; Telecommunications Systems Management as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Keith is a Six Sigma-certified senior member of the American Society for Quality. As a systems administrator, Keith was often burned by lack of system configuration and procedural documentation, so he became diligent in documenting everything he did. He carried that lesson with him when he advanced to IT leadership. His motto became "If it's not documented, it's not done." Based on that experience, Keith launched TaskTrain as the tool he wished he had back in the day. Web Site: https://TaskTrain.app LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/tasktrain/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Task_Train Facebook: https://facebook.com/TaskTrain/

I interviewed Keith Gillette, founder of TaskTrain, a new documentation tool for checklists and procedures. He describes TaskTrain as "A practical tool to scale your business by eliminating avoidable errors &amp; increasing operational efficiency. Keith Gillette is a "process pragmatist" and Founder/CEO of TaskTrain, a process management SaaS application streamlined for SMBs. Keith has more than 25 years of IT operations management experience in both embedded and virtual CIO roles. He holds a Master of Science in Information &amp; Telecommunications Systems Management as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Keith is a Six Sigma-certified senior member of the American Society for Quality. As a systems administrator, Keith was often burned by lack of system configuration and procedural documentation, so he became diligent in documenting everything he did. He carried that lesson with him when he advanced to IT leadership. His motto became "If it's not documented, it's not done." Based on that experience, Keith launched TaskTrain as the tool he wished he had back in the day. Web Site: <a href="https://TaskTrain.app" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://TaskTrain.app</a> LinkedIn: <a href="https://linkedin.com/company/tasktrain/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://linkedin.com/company/tasktrain/</a> Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/Task_Train" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/Task_Train</a> Facebook: <a href="https://facebook.com/TaskTrain/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://facebook.com/TaskTrain/</a>

TaskTrain - Pragmatic Process Management

James Kernan

I caught up with one of my favorite coaches, James Kernan, a few days ago. James Kernan He was eager to talk about the Ten Best Practices for a Successful Sales Organization. James runs the Millionaire Mastermind Group – Meeting in Orlando March 28-29. For more information, visit KernanConsulting.com. You can also catch up with James at the SMB TechFest show in Anaheim April 18th. Here’s a quick summary. But please watch the interview to get all the details:  Ten Best Practices for a Successful Sales Organization  Have a Sales Plan / Sales Strategy Set goals and KPIs Have USP Create a compensation plan that’s not too complicated Have a way to help the sales team with leads Constantly educate the sales team Have good communication Get the right tools and CRM Invest in support staff for the sales team Document your sales processes!  Watch the interview:  Listen to the Interview (mp3)  [Sorry for my microphone problems. Something changed my settings and I didn’t notice until the recording was done.]

I caught up with one of my favorite coaches, James Kernan, a few days ago. James Kernan He was eager to talk about the Ten Best Practices for a Successful Sales Organization. James runs the Millionaire Mastermind Group – Meeting in Orlando March 28-29. For more information, visit <a href="https://kernanconsulting.com/index.php/events/millionaire_mastermind_peer_groups_quarterly_meetings/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">KernanConsulting.com</a>. You can also catch up with James at the <a href="http://www.smbtechfest.com/karl" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">SMB TechFest</a> show in Anaheim April 18th. Here’s a quick summary. But please watch the interview to get all the details: Ten Best Practices for a Successful Sales Organization <ul> <li>Have a Sales Plan / Sales Strategy</li> <li>Set goals and KPIs</li> <li>Have USP</li> <li>Create a compensation plan that’s not too complicated</li> <li>Have a way to help the sales team with leads</li> <li>Constantly educate the sales team</li> <li>Have good communication</li> <li>Get the right tools and CRM</li> <li>Invest in support staff for the sales team</li> <li>Document your sales processes!</li> </ul> Watch the interview: <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/JamesKernan-201903.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Listen to the Interview (mp3)</a> <a href="http://www.smbcommunitypodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/JamesKernan-201903.mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> [Sorry for my microphone problems. Something changed my settings and I didn’t notice until the recording was done.]

James Kernan – Ten Best Practices for Successful Sales Organization

The best podcast episodes on parenting. Interviewing experts and talking through common issues surrounding parenting. This topic is filled with important lessons and insights for anyone listening. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

OwlTail

Best Parenting Podcasts

What is this?
1 quote, 3 ideas & 1 question from a carefully curated podcast episode.
Every Monday & Wednesday.

Want a 3rd insight and episode every week? Email me at curation@owltail.com.