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

Visual thinkers, this one's for you! On this episode, Wim Kerkhoff walks us through the evolution of project management in the MSP world—starting with sticky notes and ending with an intuitive, web-based Kanban board purpose-built for real IT teams. We talk about integration headaches, boosting technician engagement, and why color-coding and swim lanes can transform how you manage work. You’ll hear success stories, tackle myths about automation and AI, and learn why “making work visible” is more than just a catchy book title—it’s a growth strategy for your business.Why listen:Find out why visual thinking beats dashboardsActionable MSP management hacksInsights into team morale, burnout, and workflowSecrets of Top Left’s tight PSA integrationLearn from real MSP transformation storiesHow to create daily huddles that boost flowMove your MSP beyond metrics and into actionGuest: Wim Kerkhoff is the founder and visionary behind Top Left, a Kanban-driven service and project management tool designed for managed service providers. With deep roots in the MSP world and a passion for visual workflows, Wim helps teams tackle chaos and get things done.Website: https://topleft.teamLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wimkerkhoff/Companies, Products & Books Mentioned:IT Nation Connect: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/connectJIRA: https://www.atlassian.com/software/jiraMonday: https://monday.comTrello: https://trello.comMaking Work Visual (book): https://amzn.to/4mavWPJThe Phoenix Project (book): https://amzn.to/4o3lhIeSPONSORS:Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerreadyMUSIC: Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

What does it take to go from a one-man IT shop to a thriving 10-person business rooted in trust and professionalism? In this episode, I talk with Jason Thomas about his journey, the value of honest communication, and the tight-knit Chicago IT community that supports one another. You’ll hear how empathy, transparency, and taking time to recharge outside the business can fuel not just growth, but real transformation for your MSP.Why Listen:Discover practical tips for scaling your MSP teamLearn the value of empathy and trust with customersInsights into joining and benefiting from industry organizations like NSITSPLeadership lessons from nearly two decades in IT servicesReal-world advice on documentation and cybersecurity best practicesCompanies, Products, and Books MentionedJATAG Solutions: https://www.jatag.com/National Society of IT Service Providers (NSITSP): https://nsitsp.orgMicrosoft: https://www.microsoft.comBoy Scouts of America / Scouting America: https://www.scouting.orgCIS Controls (Center for Internet Security Controls): https://www.cisecurity.org/controls=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Uncle Marv hosts SonicWall’s finest—Lisa Compton and Julian Agapitos—for a packed roundtable all about the latest in firewall tech, MSP best practices, and business flexibility. We cover the move from Gen 6.5 to Gen 7 (and 8!), the new $99 TZ80 firewall, and how SonicWall’s cyber insurance and warranty options stack up. The conversation brings out hard truths about contracts, vendor transparency, SASE, ZTNA, and the magic of single-pane-of-glass management via the new Sonic Platform. This one’s a ride: from serious product talk to playful banter about channel events and network pets, you’ll get the full MSP experience.Why Listen / Key TakeawaysLearn how SonicWall’s new platforms simplify cloud management for MSPsUnderstand managed protection and flexible billing: more time for your businessGet honest advice about product cycles, recurring revenue, and cyber warrantiesHear firsthand how SonicWall integrates with key PSA and RMM toolsSee how the move to Zero Trust, SASE, and passwordless security is changing the gameFind out about community events, channel support, and inside storiesGuest: Lisa Compton (Senior Director of Marketing, SonicWall)Lisa brings more than a decade of channel marketing expertise to SonicWall, focusing on building strong partnerships and driving product innovation for MSPs.Lisa Compton LinkedInGuest: Julian Agapitos (Strategic Account Manager, SonicWall)Julian specializes in strategic accounts and works closely with national and MSP partners to deliver innovative firewall, endpoint, and zero trust solutions.Julian Agapitos LinkedInCompanies, Products & Books MentionedSonicWall: https://www.sonicwall.comUbiquiti: https://www.ui.comSeedpod Cyber: https://www.seedpodcyber.comCork: https://www.corkinc.comAvik (Auvik): https://www.auvik.comDomotz: https://www.domotz.comConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comHaloPSA: https://www.halopsa.comLiongard: https://www.liongard.com/Lumu (Cameras): https://www.lumasurveillance.com/Rewst: https://rewst.io/Datto: https://www.datto.comKaseya: https://www.kaseya.comChannelCon: https://channelcon.gtia.org/ASCII Cup: https://events.ascii.com/Florida Man Games: https://thefloridamangames.com/On Patrol Live: https://www.reelz.com/on-patrol-live=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

What if you could move from a client call to an executive proposal in five minutes? In this eye-opening episode, Nicolas Fry explains how TurboDocx leverages AI, cryptography, and creative automation to streamline every step of the MSP sales process. Learn how you can stand toe-to-toe with the big IT firms, all while saving money and time. Plus, discover special features like free e-signatures, smart pricing, and robust audit trails that make TurboDocx a must-have for any IT business.Why Listen:Learn how TurboDocx automates proposals and SOPsDiscover free e-signature perks for small MSPsSee how AI integrates with tools like Zoom, ConnectWise, and HubSpotExplore compliance, audit, and security basics for digital documentsUnderstand how MSPs can resell or use TurboDocx internallyReal examples of onboarding, manuals, and customized outputsNicolas Fry is the founder and CEO of TurboDocx, bringing years of technical and enterprise sales experience from roles at Citrix, Okta, and within Florida’s vibrant tech startup ecosystem. His vision: empower SMB and MSP players with smart automation and free e-signature solutions so they can thrive alongside industry giants.Website: https://turbodocx.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolasfry/Companies, Products, Events & Books Mentioned (with Links)Citrix: https://www.citrix.comOkta: https://www.okta.comConnectWise PSA: https://www.connectwise.com/software/manageHubSpot: https://www.hubspot.comZoho: https://www.zoho.comIT Nation Connect: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/connectZoom: https://zoom.usQuickBooks: https://quickbooks.intuit.comStripe: https://stripe.com=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Discover how security can actually win you new clients! In this can’t-miss episode, Anup Ghosh of ThreatMate reveals exactly how automated pen testing and attack simulations not only close deals but also create ongoing revenue for MSPs. Learn the difference between a basic scan and a “real” pen test, what MSPs must do to stay ahead in compliance, and the secrets of agentic platform architectures. If you’re looking to position your MSP for explosive growth and sustained security, you’ll want to hear these game-changing strategies straight from the trenches.Why Listen:Practical breakdown of automated pen testing for MSPsLearn how to turn compliance into ongoing revenueTakeaways from PitchIT and industry conferencesTips for onboarding and retention with real impactThe role of agentic architectures in modern MSP platformsPartnerships that accelerate compliance and salesAnup Ghosh is the founder and CEO of ThreatMate, a leading cybersecurity company specializing in continuous threat management and unified attack surface monitoring for MSPs. With a wealth of experience in cybersecurity innovation, Anup is passionate about equipping service providers to proactively manage threats, streamline compliance, and win more clients.Website: https://www.threatmate.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anupghosh/Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned (with URLs)Senteon: https://www.senteon.comPax8: https://www.pax8.comCISA Scuba Gear: https://www.cisa.gov/scubaMicrosoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365IT Nation PitchIT: https://www.connectwise.com/company/it-nation/pitchitASCII Group: https://www.ascii.com=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Are you tired of customers dreading compliance and security talk? In this episode, I chat with Jared Casner of Blacksmith InfoSec, who’s making compliance accessible for every MSP and SMB. Discover their “paint-by-numbers” approach to policy management, seamless ConnectWise integrations, and how their flexible platform creates new revenue streams for tech pros. Holistic security isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a philosophy, and Blacksmith InfoSec is putting it into action. Hear the backstory of how two founders shifted from startup IT challenges to channel-first solutions built just for MSPs. We dig deep into white-label options, risk management frameworks, and the value of real community feedback. You’ll leave with new strategies, and maybe even a pen recommendation, too.Why Listen:Learn about “compliance as a service” for MSPsDiscover practical MSP-friendly integrations (like ConnectWise)See how holistic security benefits client businessesHear candid industry lessons, mistakes, and winsFind out the financial perks for early MSP adoptersGet tips to co-manage compliance with clientsUnderstand why feedback-driven development mattersGuest: Jared CasnerCo-founder and compliance innovator at Blacksmith InfoSec, with 15 years in Silicon Valley and a passion for making cybersecurity accessible for businesses of every size.Website: https://www.blacksmithinfosec.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredcasner/=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

In this episode, I get the inside scoop from Reese Tuttle, whose passion for stopping cybercrime is rooted in family and real-world experience. We discuss AP2T Labs’ patent-pending training platform: from social media and business-based attacks to text, voice, and even physical mail scams. Reese details how their “edu moments” and instant feedback turn risk into learning, how their flexible API-first setup makes integrations painless, and what motivates him every morning to make a difference. If you care about genuine protection—not just compliance—this episode is a must-listen.Why Listen — Takeaway ListExperience cybersecurity training that matches real-world threatsLearn the power of safe failure and instant feedbackDiscover cutting-edge approaches to phishing, voice, text, and mail scamsHear MSP integration and business growth tipsUnderstand the human, emotional side of cyber defenseGet inspired by a mission-driven team making a real impactGuest: Reese Tuttle, Founder of AP2T LabsA cybersecurity prodigy with a passion for transforming awareness training, Reese founded AP2T Labs to blend research, realism, and daily practice in the fight against cyber threats. As a leader, innovator, and educator—and drawing on life experiences with reformed hackers and global crime investigations—Reese’s mission is about more than tech: it’s about protecting lives.Website: https://ap2tlabs.comReese Tuttle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reesetuttle/=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Join me and Kip Fanta as we reveal how MSPs can break free from the “vendor” label and become true business partners. Learn why strategic management, AI-powered insights, and a collaborative approach are the keys to thriving in today’s IT landscape.Kip shares how their two-sided platform enables both MSPs and clients to collaborate, capture ideas, and align technology investments with real business needs. We talk about the growing role of AI and real-time analytics, the importance of advisory services, and how MSPs can avoid being seen as just another faceless supplier. Don’t miss Kip’s practical advice and the inside scoop on their PitchIT journey!Why Listen:Discover the two-sided platform approach for MSPsLearn how to align IT with business strategyHear real feedback from the MSP communityFind out how AI and analytics drive decision-makingGet tips on building advisory and consulting servicesAvoid the risk of becoming a commodity supplierGuest: Kip Fanta brings decades of IT and business leadership experience, including years at Procter & Gamble, to his role at GetInSync. He specializes in helping MSPs bridge the gap between technology and business strategy, focusing on partnership, client success, and strategic growth.Website: https://getinsync.caLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kipfanta=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Curious how today’s top MSPs are saving hours on QBRs and strategic planning? Alex Markov of Strategy Overview shares the inside scoop on their AI-powered platform, IT Glue integration, and how real-world feedback drives innovation.Alex reveals the major updates since last year—including automated QBRs with Arya, expanded reporting for Office 365, and a robust IT planning module. We dig into the platform’s origins at Red Key Solutions, how MSPs can quickly adopt and customize the process, and why flexibility and user feedback are at the heart of every new feature. Why Listen:Discover how AI is automating QBR assessmentsLearn about seamless IT Glue integrationSee how white-labeled client portals boost engagementGet inspired by real MSP feedback shaping the platformFind out how Strategy Overview saves MSPs hours every monthAlex Markov is the founder of Strategy Overview and a partner at Red Key Solutions, a leading MSP in New York. With over 23 years in the industry, Alex is passionate about helping MSPs streamline operations and deliver strategic value.Website: https://strategyoverview.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-markov/=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Are you tired of chasing cold leads and competing with dozens of MSPs for the same customer? In this episode, I chat with Skofi, the mastermind behind Find My IT Partner, who’s on a mission to reinvent how IT providers and SMBs connect. We talk about the power of curated matches, the importance of trust, and why his platform is more “cyber matchmaking” than traditional lead gen. If you’re ready to move beyond word-of-mouth and discover a smarter way to grow your MSP, you won’t want to miss this conversation!Why Listen:Learn how Find My IT Partner’s matchmaking engine worksUnderstand the difference between leads and qualified sales opportunitiesHear real-world stories of SMBs consolidating IT providersDiscover how compliance and trust drive MSP selectionGet the inside scoop on the PitchIT competition and vendor boot campFind out how the subscription and success fee model benefits MSPsExplore the future of vetted provider directoriesGuest: Johnathan “Skofi” SchofieldFounder of Find My IT Partner, Skofi is passionate about connecting SMBs with trusted, qualified IT providers. With years of experience in IT business development, he’s building a platform that combines deep industry knowledge with a unique matchmaking engine.Website: https://findmyitpartner.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnathan-schofield/=== SPONSORSLivestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlockerLegacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNML === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast