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

Choosing a network monitoring platform isn’t one-size-fits-all. In this episode, I compare Auvik and Domotz head-to-head, sharing my hands-on experiences and candid MSP feedback. We’ll talk integrations, multi-site dashboards, NetFlow analytics, and reverse proxy simplicity. You’ll hear real-world pros and cons to help you avoid costly trial-and-error. And yes — I’ll reveal the tool I personally use and why.Why Listen:Side-by-side field-tested comparison of Auvik & DomotzLearn about NetFlow analytics vs reverse proxy use casesHear honest pros/cons straight from MSP peersGet insights on cloud vs on-prem solutionsUnderstand when to pick deep analytics over fast rolloutCompanies, Products, Books Mentioned (with clickable URLs)Auvik: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/auvik/Domotz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/domotzHelient: https://www.helient.com/365 Technologies Inc.: https://www.365tech.ca/IT Glue: https://www.itglue.comSonicWall: https://www.sonicwall.comSPONSORS: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/designerreadySHOW 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 as I chat with Nat about the transition from managed services to building an AI-driven solution for ticket management and documentation. Nat shares candid insights from the PitchIT bootcamp, talks integrations with IT Glue and other platforms, and reveals their vision for empowering techs and boosting MSP margins. Whether it’s learning how AI can augment your team or understanding the future of project work in the MSP ecosystem, you’ll get actionable advice and plenty of laughs along the way.List of Companies, Products, and BooksWebsite: https://mizo.techConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comHalo PSA: https://halopsa.comAutotask PSA: https://www.datto.com/products/autotask-psaIT Glue: https://www.itglue.comDatto: https://www.datto.comPitchIT: https://www.connectwise.com/pitchitSPONSORS: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/designerreadySHOW 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 does it really mean to sell your MSP and stay in the game? On this episode, I chat with Paco LeBron—fresh off selling a majority stake in ProdigyTeks and stepping up as CEO for MSP Owners Group. Paco drops hard-won insights on leadership, the pitfalls of transactional M&A, and why a company’s soul matters more than just financials. If you want to know how the new wave of MSP acquisitions is different, and how to thrive in a changing landscape, this episode is can’t-miss!We also talk all things TechCon Unplugged, the role of peer community in the MSP world, and what’s next as the industry faces more automation and roll-ups. Companies, Products, & Books Mentioned (List with URLs)ProdigyTeks: https://prodigyteks.comMSP Owners Group: https://msp-og.comMSP Unplugged: https://www.mspunplugged.comTechCon Unplugged: https://www.techconunplugged.comSynology: https://www.synology.com/The 20 (MSP group): https://www.the20.comOpenText Cybersecurity: https://www.opentext.comGTIA (formerly CompTIA): https://www.gtia.orgAmazon Highlight:Wavlink (USB-C Dock): https://amzn.to/4mvn0ogSPONSORS: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/designerreadySHOW 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

I sit down with cybersecurity thought leader David Meister, who leads global MSP efforts at Check Point Software, to talk big trends and smart strategies for MSPs in 2025. We dissect Checkpoint’s new ransomware report, the rise of AI-powered phishing emails, and why attackers are shifting focus to extortion. David gets candid about the challenges of moving from MSP to vendor, how Check Point is building a unified, user-friendly platform, and why humility must be part of your security playbook. We round it out with practical advice, real stories, and resources you won’t want to miss. Why Listen? (Takeaways List)Understand how ransomware tactics are evolving in 2025Learn how AI is changing the cybercriminal landscapeHear expert advice on securing cloud-based emailDiscover the risks of overconfidence in cybersecurityMost important security misconfigurations—and how to fix themHow MSPs can adapt to the commoditization of cybercrimeInsights into Checkpoint’s new MSP platform and resourcesReal-world stories from both MSP and vendor perspectivesDavid Meister is the Global Head of MSP at Check Point Software Technologies. Originally from Australia and now based in Utah, David brings years of hands-on experience in managed service leadership, sales, and cybersecurity. He’s dedicated to helping MSPs succeed against today’s toughest threats.Website: https://www.checkpoint.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemeister1/Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned (with URLs)Avanan: https://www.checkpoint.com/products/email-security/Perimeter81: https://www.perimeter81.comCyberint: https://cyberint.comPax8: https://www.pax8.comMicrosoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365CryptoLocker (reference): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CryptoLockerChatGPT: https://chat.openai.comPerplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/Grok (xAI): https://grok.x.ai/Copilot: https://copilot.microsoft.com/Verizon Breach Report: https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/reports/dbir/SPONSORS: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/designerreadySHOW 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

Thinking about adding Ubiquiti to your MSP stack? Hear my firsthand experience deploying their latest network and security hardware, plus insights from an industry pro managing thousands of devices. We cut through the marketing hype, evaluating features, pitfalls, and integration strategies.Hear the honest pros and cons comparing Ubiquiti with Synology, TP-Link Omada, and Datto. Discover why properly sizing your stack matters, and how unified management platforms transform customer support and troubleshooting. Listener Q&A covers advanced topics like VLANs, multi-site management, reseller margins, and more. Stay for the wild credit union and Florida man stories!Why Listen:Real-world review of Ubiquiti’s Dream Machine SE & U7 Pro APsHonest pros and cons of Ubiquiti vs. TP-Link Omada & DattoExpert tips on deploying scalable guest networks and VLANsStory-driven troubleshooting and feature walkthroughsMargins, distribution, and value-added reselling adviceLive Q&A: Multicast, NAS, and Door AccessLessons from managing small and enterprise deploymentsCompanies, Products, Books Mentioned: Ubiquiti: https://ui.comSynology: https://www.synology.comTP-Link Omada: https://www.tp-link.com/us/omada/SonicWall: https://www.sonicwall.comDatto: https://www.datto.comD&H Distributing: https://www.dandh.comTD SYNNEX: https://www.tdsynnex.comStreakwave: https://www.streakwave.comNetAlly: https://www.netally.comLumu: https://www.lumasurveillance.com/Beambox: https://beambox.comChannelCon (Conference): https://channelcon.gtia.org/TechCon Unplugged (Conference): https://techconunplugged.comProdigyTeks: https://www.prodigyteks.comUnbound Digital: https://unbounddigital.comSPONSORS: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/designerreadySHOW MUSIC: Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireItem License Code: 7X9F52DNMLSPONSOR MUSIC:Item Title: An Summer Ambient CorporateItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/an-summer-ambient-corporate-GAVTRPCAuthor Username: Cozy_VibesItem License Code: TUN8XQDGWV  === 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

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the MSP landscape, and no one knows it better than Gregg Lalle of Synthreo. Tune in as Gregg breaks down how MSPs can move beyond automation to build intelligent AI agents that help clients grow their businesses and improve operational efficiency. Synthreo isn't just another AI tool. Gregg explains how their no-code AI builder connects MSPs with powerful, brandable AI workforce solutions designed to scale and deliver real business outcomes—a must-listen for every MSP ready to embrace the future.If you want to future-proof your IT service business and learn about the practical steps you can take today, this one won’t disappoint.Why Listen: Discover actionable ways to leverage AI as an MSPLearn how Synthreo’s no-code AI builder worksExplore the transition to Managed Intelligence ProviderGet ahead with responsible AI adoption and governanceHear real-world use cases and business growth storiesUnderstand branding, multitenancy, and white labeling in AIInsights on setting your MSP apart in a crowded fieldGuidance on MSP consulting and business alignment with AIGuest Bio: Gregg Lalle is a veteran of the MSP and IT space, previously leading IT Nation at ConnectWise for 15 years before taking the helm at Synthreo. He’s passionate about guiding MSPs through the major technology shifts of the AI era, helping them become trusted intelligence providers for their clients.Website: synthreo.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-lalle-795889/Companies, Products, Books: IT Nation Connect: https://www.itnation.com/it-nation-connect/ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comPitch It: https://www.itnation.com/pitchitPax8: https://pax8.comThread: https://www.getthread.com/Syncro: https://syncromsp.com  === 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

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