Humanize IT

In this episode of the Humanized IT podcast, Adam Walter and Todd Kane discuss the critical aspects of operational leadership within Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They explore the challenges faced by service managers, the importance of continuous education, and the need for a strong operational foundation to support growth. The conversation also delves into the distinctions between visionary and integrator roles, the transition from working manager to CEO, and the significance of operational efficiency in achieving business success.

In this conversation, Matthew Hache discusses the importance of team training and building a strong culture within Managed Service Providers (MSPs). He emphasizes the need for organizations to embrace training as a means to retain talent and foster growth. The discussion covers various aspects of mentorship, the significance of understanding the business side of IT, and the concept of the 'Hero's Journey' in employee development. Matthew shares insights on how to create a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and personal growth, ultimately leading to a more engaged and effective workforce.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Matthew Hache discuss the challenges faced by Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in growing their businesses. They explore the reasons behind MSPs' reluctance to charge for their services, the importance of tracking metrics for profitability, and the impact of imposter syndrome on professionals in the industry. Matthew emphasizes the value of expertise and experience, urging MSPs to recognize their worth and charge accordingly. The discussion also highlights the role of MSPs in contributing to their clients' success and the need for a shift in mindset towards valuing their services.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the importance of building strong relationships with clients through various engagement strategies, including lunch and learns and stakeholder interviews. They emphasize that the core value lies in the relationships formed rather than just the transactional aspects of business. The discussion also highlights the significance of leveraging vendor partnerships and conducting effective client interviews to understand their needs better. Ultimately, the conversation underscores that trust and personal connections are crucial for long-term business success.

In this conversation, Sam Weiner shares his journey from being a software developer to becoming a successful Managed Service Provider (MSP) focused on the winery industry. He discusses the importance of building relationships with clients, conducting effective assessments, and leveraging technology to help businesses grow. The conversation emphasizes the value of listening to clients and having high-level discussions to identify their needs and create actionable project roadmaps. Sam shares specific examples of how he has successfully implemented these strategies, leading to new projects and services for his clients.

In this conversation, Adam Walter interviews Sam Weiner, an IT service provider specializing in wineries. Sam shares his unique journey into the IT service industry, highlighting the complexities of the winery business model and the importance of understanding client needs. He discusses how he transitioned from a software developer to an MSP, focusing on creating value through technology solutions tailored to the winery sector. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building relationships, facilitating discussions, and identifying opportunities for growth within the industry.

In this episode, Adam Walter, Jonathan Crowe, and Skip Ziegler discuss their predictions for the upcoming year, focusing on economic trends, technology advancements, and the importance of community engagement. They explore the rise of Discord as a professional communication tool, the significance of niche markets for MSPs, and the evolving landscape of compliance and security. The conversation also delves into the potential impact of AI innovations on the industry, emphasizing the need for MSPs to be bold and define their unique niches to thrive in a competitive environment.

In this festive episode, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the joys and challenges of the holiday season, particularly focusing on balancing work and personal life during Christmas. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with on-call duties, the importance of mental health breaks, and the unique challenges that come with the holiday season. The conversation also touches on the significance of empathy in the workplace and concludes with a look ahead to predictions for 2025.

In this conversation, Adam Walter, Joe Rojas, and Jeff Loehr discuss the decline of Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry. They explore the reasons why QBRs are failing, emphasizing the need for MSPs to shift their focus from technology to business solutions. The discussion highlights the importance of niching for MSPs, providing real-world examples of successful niche strategies, and the value of targeted solutions that address specific client needs. The conversation concludes with a look at how MSPs can improve their client relationships and overall business success by adopting a more strategic approach to their services.

In this conversation, Adam, Joe, and Jeff discuss the importance of Strategic Business Reviews (SBRs) for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They emphasize the need for MSPs to shift their focus from technical discussions to understanding their clients' business needs. The conversation covers how to effectively listen to clients, identify their unique challenges, and leverage technology to provide tailored solutions. The speakers also highlight the significance of finding a niche market and the potential for increased revenue through specialized services. Education and training are presented as essential components for MSPs to enhance their strategic discussions and business growth.