Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

MSP Radio
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Jul 11, 2024 • 14min

OpenAI, Cybersecurity Risks, Regulatory Challenges, and New Ransomware Tactics

Microsoft and Apple will not have advisory roles on OpenAI's board of directors, despite their investments, as regulatory scrutiny on big tech companies increases. OpenAI faced a security breach in its internal messaging systems, raising concerns about the potential theft of AI technology by foreign adversaries. The company also addressed a security issue in its ChatGPT Mac OS app, highlighting the importance of cybersecurity in AI development.A federal judge has delayed the implementation of the FTC's ban on non-compete agreements, siding with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and a tax firm. This decision could impact future regulatory actions and business practices. Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of the Chevron Deference Doctrine challenges the Biden administration's cybersecurity regulations on critical infrastructure organizations. The episode also touches on the ongoing debate over net neutrality rules and the Republican National Committee's promise to repeal President Biden's executive order on artificial intelligence.The episode delves into the cybersecurity challenges faced by MSPs, with a high percentage experiencing cyberattacks and unplanned expenses. A new ransomware group called Volcano Demon has emerged, utilizing phone calls for payment negotiations and intimidation. The discussion also includes vulnerabilities in Apple devices and the importance of companies like Enable signing the Secure by Design Pledge to enhance security in products and services. Google's Advanced Protection Program and its impact on high-risk users are also highlighted as a new security measure in the tech industry.Four things to know today00:00 No Advisory Roles for Microsoft and Apple on OpenAI's Board Despite Investments  03:38 Federal Judge Delays FTC's Noncompete Ban Implementation Amid Legal Challenge07:54 MSPs Face Heightened Cyberattack Risks: 76% Targeted, Unplanned Expenses Rise10:21 Volcano Demon Ransomware Utilizes Phone Calls for Payment Negotiations and Intimidation   Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://www.coreview.com/msp   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jul 10, 2024 • 12min

Market Trends: Small Caps, Job Market Dynamics, AI PCs, and Security Spending

A market review delves into the performance of U.S. small caps in comparison to other major stock markets, highlighting the underperformance of small caps and the global recovery post-2020 crash. The discussion also touches on the recent job market data, showcasing signs of life with an unexpected increase in job postings and hiring in May, indicating a gradual and uneven recovery.The episode further explores the shifts in the tech industry, focusing on the addition of net new jobs in June but also noting a loss of tech occupations in the economy. The rise in office vacancy rates is highlighted, attributed to permanent changes in work patterns due to the pandemic. Dave emphasizes the importance for IT service companies to reevaluate their talent retention strategies amidst the changing employment landscape, with a particular focus on providing competitive benefits and fostering a positive workplace culture.Dave delves into the projections for the PC market growth and the impact of AI PCs, noting the slow adoption of AI capabilities in PCs and the dominance of cloud-hosted capabilities. The discussion also touches on the significant increase in cybersecurity spending expected by 2029, driven by the rising number and sophistication of cyberattacks. The episode underscores the opportunities for IT service providers to tailor security solutions for small businesses and emphasizes the importance of matching solutions to specific customer needs and budgets.The episode concludes by highlighting the growing interest of small businesses in leveraging AI tools for sales and marketing, with a focus on the optimistic outlook for AI's role in supporting professional activities. Dave also addresses the surge in funding for AI startups in the U.S. and the concerns surrounding the industry's financial sustainability. The episode ends with a call to develop comprehensive AI integration services for small businesses and to move at an appropriate pace in adopting AI technologies to ensure sustained innovation and value creation. Three things to know today 00:00 Market Overview: U.S. Small Caps, Job Market Dynamics, and Tech Industry Shifts05:12 IDC Forecasts 2.6% Growth in PC Market for 2024, AI PCs to See Limited Impact07:40 Small Business Confidence Soars: Investment and AI Integration Plans Rise  Supported by:  https://movebot.io/mspradio/     💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jul 8, 2024 • 29min

Service Leadership Profitability Report: Trends & Business Models with Peter Kujawa

Peter Kujawa discusses the Service Leadership Profitability Report, highlighting the link between customer satisfaction and financial performance in the IT industry. The episode explores the differences between private equity-backed MSPs and non-private equity ones, emphasizing the significance of customer service quality and pricing strategies. Additionally, insights on operational maturity levels and evolving business models within the MSP space are shared.
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Jul 6, 2024 • 19min

Navigating the Intersection of Open Source, AI, and Cybersecurity in Business with Paula Paul

In this podcast episode, host Dave Sobel interviews Paula Paul, the founder and distinguished engineer at Grayshore, about the importance of open source in businesses. Paula emphasizes that open source is already deeply integrated into most commercial applications, with a vast majority of software relying on open-source libraries. She highlights the need for businesses to effectively manage and secure their open-source dependencies, especially in light of recent instances where open-source has been used as an attack vector for social engineering. Paula discusses the challenges faced by organizations in managing dependencies on open-source packages, which have significantly increased in complexity over the years. She advises businesses to become more aware of the open-source packages they rely on and to prioritize securing customer-facing assets. Paula also recommends getting involved with organizations like the OpenJS Foundation and leveraging services from companies like Tidelift and HeroDevs to support and secure open-source dependencies. The conversation delves into the risks and benefits of using open-source software, highlighting the potential for social engineering attacks and licensing issues. Paula argues that the open-source model offers more agility and community support compared to closed-source solutions but also stresses the importance of contributing back to the open-source ecosystem. She encourages businesses to support the preservation of open source as a valuable natural resource and to align their missions with the values of the open-source community. As the discussion turns to the intersection of AI and open source, Paula sees opportunities for leveraging AI tools to enhance open-source projects, particularly in areas like code analysis and testing. She suggests that service organizations looking to engage with open source should explore projects within foundations like the OpenJS Foundation, Finos, and CNCF. Paula emphasizes the importance of human expertise in cybersecurity and the need for continuous monitoring and rapid response in today's threat landscape. Supported by:https://getinsync.ca/mspradio/https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jul 5, 2024 • 49min

Feed Drop: Dave Sobel on Dark Rhino Security Confidential

A special episode of Dark Rhino's Security Confidential featured Dave Sobel, a well-known figure in the virtualization world and host of the Business of Tech podcast. In the freewheeling conversation, Dave shared insights on the status of security, the balance between interesting and boring aspects of the industry, and his thoughts on the willingness to pay for security. His daily podcast focuses on providing IT services companies with insights and analysis to help them navigate the ever-changing technology landscape.Dave's background in computer science and entrepreneurship provided a unique perspective on the importance of understanding the "why" behind considering a shift to entrepreneurship. He emphasized the need to assess risk tolerance, family dependencies, and the value proposition before making the leap. By delving into the complexities of entrepreneurship, Dave highlighted the significance of finding a niche, delivering high value, and understanding the market dynamics to succeed in the business world.The conversation also touched on the evolving trends in the tech industry, particularly the rise of AI and the ethical considerations surrounding its implementation. Dave emphasized the need for service providers to guide customers on the ethical use of AI and navigate issues like data privacy, bias, and copyright management. Additionally, the discussion explored the intersection of cybersecurity, user behavior, and the need for regulatory frameworks to address the challenges faced by businesses and individuals in the digital landscape.As the conversation delved into the realm of offensive cybersecurity and the potential implications of hackback strategies, Dave underscored the importance of a feedback loop between private businesses and government entities to define rules of engagement. Dave highlighted the need for continuous adaptation and innovation in the ever-evolving tech landscape by advocating for open conversations and a collaborative approach to cybersecurity challenges. Overall, the episode provided valuable insights into the intersection of technology, business, and security, offering a thought-provoking perspective on navigating the complexities of the digital world.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jul 3, 2024 • 11min

Antivirus Trends, MSP Programs, AI Strategy, Vendor Neutrality, and Generative AI Interfaces

Nearly half of Americans still use third-party antivirus software despite built-in security features in mainstream operating systems. The reasons for this choice include fear of malware, privacy concerns, and online shopping security. Additionally, there is a growing fear of losing cryptocurrency, especially among older age groups. The episode also highlights the issue of freelancers on Fiverr offering access to personal data tools, raising concerns about privacy and content moderation.The episode delves into the launch of Ninja One's global channel partner program, aimed at driving partner growth through training, support, and marketing resources. Ingram Micro's AI services in Australia and New Zealand are also discussed, focusing on enhancing AI capabilities and providing workshops and guidance to small and medium-sized businesses. The importance of leveraging vendor programs and understanding vendor neutrality in healthcare MSPs is emphasized, along with a cost-saving analysis for managing contingent workforces in-house.Dave Sobel explores the challenges and barriers organizations face when implementing AI and automation strategies, such as data quality, technical challenges, and cultural change. The episode also touches on the implications of generative AI technology, with experts raising concerns about its impact on industries, job security, creativity, and content quality. The importance of considering user needs and intended functionality when designing generative AI applications is highlighted, emphasizing the need for a tailored approach based on specific use cases.As the episode wraps up, Dave Sobel provides a preview of upcoming content, including a feed drop of his appearance on Dark Rhino Security Confidential, discussions on open source AI and cybersecurity, and an interview on the Service Leadership Profitability Report. Listeners are encouraged to share the show with colleagues and stay tuned for future episodes covering a range of tech topics. Three things to know today00:00 From Malware Fears to Privacy Concerns: Why Americans Choose Third-Party Antivirus03:38 NinjaOne's Partner Growth and Ingram Micro's AI Services04:46 Understanding Vendor Neutrality in Healthcare MSPs: A Cost-Saving Analysis  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/http://skykick.com/mspradio/   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jul 2, 2024 • 9min

Cybersecurity, Tech Regulation, AI Training, Apple AirPods with Cameras

The podcast discusses the decision by CISA not to ban ransomware payments, a breach in TeamViewer's systems by Russian hackers, uncertainty surrounding cyber insurance coverage, the U.S. Supreme Court overturning the Chevron Deference Doctrine, a Senate bill aiding small businesses in AI training, and analyst predictions of Apple AirPods with camera modules by 2026.
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Jul 1, 2024 • 11min

Navigating Price Sensitivity, AI Advancements, and AI Responsibility in IT Services

The episode highlights the growing price sensitivity among consumers, leading businesses to lower prices and focus on providing value to customers. IT leaders are facing an increase in high-priority digital incidents, impacting customer trust and revenue streams. Medium-sized enterprises are turning to IT resellers for strategic advice on embracing digital services and AI to stay competitive in the market.The episode also delves into the challenges posed by labor scarcity in the economy of the 2020s, with implications for corporate strategy and growth. Businesses are urged to find ways to maintain output with fewer workers amidst persistent labor shortages. The discussion emphasizes the importance of automating incident response and work processes to reduce costs and improve productivity. Retention of employees is highlighted as crucial, with a focus on enhancing job satisfaction to reduce churn and expenses.OpenAI's success in generating revenue from chatbots surpassing Microsoft's earnings is explored, shedding light on the competitive landscape in the AI market. The episode also touches on Google Translate's significant expansion of language support using AI technology, showcasing the practical outcomes of AI advancements. Insights from a Gartner poll on AI leadership within organizations underscore the importance of assigning responsibility for AI initiatives to drive value and address multidisciplinary challenges effectively.In conclusion, the episode emphasizes the value of core IT services in providing guidance and support to customers navigating the evolving tech landscape. The discussion underscores the need for businesses to focus on driving revenue with IT, automating work processes, and enhancing employee satisfaction to mitigate the impact of labor shortages. The evolving role of AI in business operations and the importance of strategic AI leadership are highlighted as key factors for success in the rapidly changing tech industry. Three things to know today00:00 Navigating Price Sensitivity: The Value of IT Services in Cost-Conscious Markets05:00 Expanding Global Reach: Google Translate Adds 110 Languages Using AI07:48 Why Assigning AI Responsibility Matters: Insights from Gartner's Poll  Supported by:  http://skykick.com/mspradio/https://www.coreview.com/msp    💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jun 30, 2024 • 19min

From Software Development to Cybersecurity: A New MSP's Journey with Nerds to Go's Paul Ongioni

Paul Ongioni, a seasoned tech professional, transitioned from software development to business ownership by launching the first Nerds to Go franchise in Chicago. With a focus on managed services and computer repair, Nerds to Go offers services to both residential and business clients. Paul's motivation stemmed from a desire to work for himself and leverage his 15 years of experience in health tech to provide specialized MSP services to healthcare organizations. He highlighted the importance of cybersecurity, noting the increasing threats faced by small businesses and the need for education and protection.As a new franchise owner, Paul shared insights into the responsibilities and benefits of operating under the Nerds to Go brand. While maintaining independence in day-to-day operations and pricing, he highlighted the support and resources provided by the franchise network, including vendor relationships and expert advice. Paul emphasized the significance of cybersecurity as a growth opportunity in the MSP space, given the rising threats and the lack of adequate protection in many organizations. He also acknowledged the potential for AI but expressed uncertainty about its future role in managed services.In his role as a franchise owner, Paul discussed the importance of offering comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to clients, including outsourced monitoring and enterprise-level protection. By educating organizations on the importance of cybersecurity and providing tailored solutions, Paul aims to help businesses safeguard against cyber threats. Looking ahead, Paul sees cybersecurity as a key focus for growth in the MSP industry, emphasizing the need for continuous protection and proactive measures to mitigate risks. As he navigates the evolving landscape of technology and security, Paul remains committed to delivering top-notch services under the Nerds to Go brand.   Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/    💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Jun 29, 2024 • 44min

AI, Cyber Insurance, E-commerce, and MSP M&A Trends

Tech industry expert Rich Freeman discusses the fluctuating premiums of cyber insurance policies and the evolving landscape of self-service platforms in the MSP industry. Insights on AI and automation approaches among MSP platform companies, the importance of data management, and utilizing data effectively are also highlighted.

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