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

Presented by Thread — the AI-powered service desk transforming MSP support, automation, and productivity for today’s IT leaders.https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/thread/If you’re an MSP aiming to modernize your cybersecurity stack and stay ahead of technology shifts, this episode is your key resource. Mike and Jason share candid insights on automation, AI, and how to future-proof your business with OpenText’s evolving platform.​Why Listen:Deep dive into OpenText’s all-in-one EDR/SOAR/SIM solutionPractical perspectives on vendor consolidation and stack managementReal-world strategies for selling and supporting Microsoft 365 CopilotOpenText’s security bundles, a la carte flexibility, and support approachStories of automation, incident response, and managed security magicExclusive event and peer group opportunities for MSPsExpert advice on becoming a true "business solution provider"Links from the show:OpenText: https://www.opentext.comAppRiver: https://www.appriver.comConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comMicrosoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365Pax8: https://www.pax8.comIT Nation: https://itnation.connectwise.com/Canalys: https://www.canalys.comOpenText World: https://www.opentext.com/resources/opentext-worldASCII (Group/Events): https://www.ascii.comBeyond (Pax8): https://www.pax8beyond.com/Gary Sinise: https://www.garysinisefoundation.orgSnoop Dogg: https://www.snoopdogg.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 INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Presented by Thread — the AI-powered service desk transforming MSP support, automation, and productivity for today’s IT leaders.https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/thread/Join Uncle Marv at IT Nation as he sits down with Adam Slutskin—co-founder, President, and CRO of CyberFOX—for a candid conversation about what it takes to succeed as an MSP, both as a provider and a vendor. Adam shares the inside story of how CyberFOX went from new kid on the block to a global channel force, and why fair pricing, transparent culture, and relentless community focus are essential. The episode explores the evolution of core products like AutoElevate, the impact of AI and integrations, and why building a positive, customer-centric culture is their top priority. Hear why Adam thinks most MSPs should expect—and demand—more from their vendors, and how CyberFOX aims to help partners grow with honesty and innovation. Key topics include the future of channel partnerships, the value of happy teams, and tips for evaluating vendors with real-world reputation checks.​Why Listen:The evolution of the channel from ConnectWise roots to today’s landscapeVendor philosophy: “never raise prices” and value for early partnersHow to evaluate vendors using Glassdoor, Reddit, and real customer reviewsThe secrets behind thriving partner ecosystems and true product innovationExclusive, actionable advice for MSPs wrestling with platform complexity and too many dashboardsThe power of company culture, happy teams, and channel reputationPractical advice for avoiding pitfalls with PE and choosing vendors with real MSP DNALinks from the show: CyberFOX: https://www.cyberfox.comIT Nation: https://itnation.connectwise.com/ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comKaseya: https://www.kaseya.comNinja (NinjaOne): https://www.ninjaone.comBlackpoint Cyber: https://www.blackpointcyber.comMSP Process: https://www.mspprocess.comPassword Boss: https://www.passwordboss.comGlassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.comReddit: https://www.reddit.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 INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Presented by Thread — the AI-powered service desk transforming MSP support, automation, and productivity for today’s IT leaders.https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/thread/Join Uncle Marv as he sits down with GTIA’s Dan Wensley and MJ Shoer for a candid discussion about elevating the IT industry. The guests share their experience transitioning from MSP and vendor roles to leading a nonprofit dedicated to empowering IT service providers. Highlights include the story behind GTIA’s independence from CompTIA certifications, the value of $3M+ in annual research, charitable initiatives distributing $2M in donations, and the global expansion of events and peer communities. Whether you’re an established MSP or just exploring the trade association world, this episode packs practical tips, community success stories, and a clear vision for the future of the channel.Takeaways: ​Learn what makes GTIA uniquely valuable for MSPs and ITSPs today.Hear how millions in vendor-neutral research can boost your business.Discover the new global reach—including ChannelCon EMEA and APAC forums.Understand the true ROI and benefits of GTIA membership.Insights on philanthropy: $2M in channel community donations.How member-driven leadership shapes charitable giving and resources.Strategies to maximize value and accelerate your MSP’s growth.The inside story of GTIA’s split from CompTIA benefits and how it helps members.Links:GTIA (Global Technology Industry Association): https://www.gtia.orgCompTIA: https://www.comptia.orgChannelCon: https://channelcon.gtia.org/IT Nation: https://itnation.connectwise.com/ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comScalePad: https://www.scalepad.comPAX8: https://www.pax8.comKaseya Connect: https://www.connectit.com/connect-it-global/ASEAN Community Forum: https://gtia.org/membership/member-groups/communities/aseanDACH Community: https://gtia.org/membership/member-groups/communities/dachANZ Community Forum: https://gtia.org/membership/member-groups/communities/anz SHOW INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Presented by Thread — the AI-powered service desk transforming MSP support, automation, and productivity for today’s IT leaders.https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/thread/Dive deep into the channel’s evolution with industry veteran Carolyn April of GTIA. Uncle Marv and Carolyn discuss the organization’s new nonprofit focus, major reports like the State of the Channel, and pressing issues like AI readiness and MSP accountability. Carolyn opens up about her transition to leading GTIA’s research, shares how member feedback shapes research topics, and reveals what it’s like to hit the conference circuit in 2025. This episode is a must-listen for MSPs looking to stay ahead of industry trends and understand the opportunities brought on by recent changes.​Takeaways: Understand the CompTIA-to-GTIA transition and its effect on the channelLearn how GTIA is focusing solely on channel member value as a nonprofitGet the scoop on MSP credentialing and the push for professionalizationHear Carolyn’s perspective on the biggest research trends for 2025Discover what’s changing – and what’s not – in flagship reports and member engagementFind out how AI is reshaping MSP business models, internally and externallyExplore how GTIA integrates research, education, and member servicesHear personal stories from Carolyn’s journey: journalism, research, and leadershipFun side topics: running, skiing, and the dynamics of teaching friends new skillsAction items for MSPs and vendors to adapt and succeedMentioned Entities with URLsGTIA: https://www.gtia.orgCompTIA: https://www.comptia.orgChannelCon: https://channelcon.gtia.org/IT Nation (conference): https://itnation.connectwise.com/GTIA IT Industry Outlook 2025 PDF: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/downloads/GTIA-IT-Channel-Outlook-2025/PAX8: https://www.pax8.comCompTIA Volley Podcast (retired): https://blubrry.com/volleyEMEA Events: https://www.gtia.org/events/emea/CCF Conference (Chicago): https://www.gtia.org/events/ccf/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 INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Presented by Thread — the AI-powered service desk transforming MSP support, automation, and productivity for today’s IT leaders.https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/thread/Uncle Marv welcomes revenue consultant Megan Killion, previously an agency owner, who shares behind-the-scenes lessons on MSP sales, client targeting, and the realities of lead generation in today’s noisy market. Listeners discover the value of proper niche focus, ethical AI data sourcing, and the importance of authentic community engagement. The discussion covers common MSP mistakes, personal migration stories, handling infrastructure PR crises, and how databases like Apollo.io are shaping new approaches to outreach. Takeaways: How to transition from agency ownership to revenue consultingReal-time strategies for MSP sales growthAI’s role in sales lead generation—with ethical boundariesSecrets to targeting high-value clients using databases like Apollo.ioImportance of community events for MSP visibility and referralsHard-won lessons on infrastructure, outages, and PR managementNavigating migrations and avoiding MSP vendor pitfallsReferral programs: what works and what doesn’tBuilding a top-of-mind MSP brand in a competitive marketWhy trust and authenticity matter most in today’s IT channelLinks for Companies, Products, Books, Events and People: ​Megan Killion: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megankillion/Moovila: https://moovila.comHubSpot: https://hubspot.comM365 (Microsoft 365): https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365Apollo.io: https://apollo.ioIT Nation: https://itnation.connectwise.com/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 INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Keith Ellis joins the show to challenge MSPs everywhere: Are you stuck in survival mode, repeating average practices, or ready for exponential growth? Through personal stories, battle-tested business wisdom, and examples from Microsoft, LinkedIn, and industry disruptors, this episode reveals how commitment, habits and bold thinking transform both mindset and profit. Resources and book recommendations include MagicQuestions.com and The Magic Lamp. Don’t miss the upcoming live show for audience Q&A and more hands-on strategies.​Why ListenLearn Keith’s “impossible goals” strategy for rapid growthDiscover how to turn tech skills into entrepreneurial advantageUnpack the real story behind best practices vs. differentiatorsHear actionable ways MSPs can escape survival modeGet tools for working less, scaling faster (with tech & partnerships)Real examples of turning limiting beliefs into breakthrough successLinks from the show: Keith Ellis: https://keithellis.comMagic Questions Goldmine: https://magicquestions.comThe Magic Lamp (book): https://amzn.to/3JzLjnnWork Less, Scale Faster Community: https://keithellis.com/work-less-scale-faster/Who Not How (book) - Dr. Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan: https://amzn.to/4p9QWHQPumpkin Plan (book) - Mike Michalowicz: https://amzn.to/4oGfMPVSPONSORS: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 INFORMATION: Website: 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 sits down with Callan Sapien of Synthreo to unpack how Synthreo evolved from early ML automation to an MSP-ready AI platform launched in the summer after an acquisition. They discuss the realities of the AI agent and copilot market, the need to focus on observable client problems, and the tension between high-margin opportunities and the security and governance required to deploy AI responsibly. Main topics include no-code/low-code architecture, MSP service delivery, AI as a service, risk management, and go-to-market strategies. Key resources mentioned include Synthreo’s MSP-ready tools and AI workflow offerings; URLs to partner sites and product pages can be added here as soon as confirmed.Takeaways:AI as a service is achievable for MSPs when paired with MSP-ready platforms and practical problem-solving approaches.The path to profitability lies in balancing services and software, not just selling AI features.Focus on identifying real client problems and mapping AI workflows to measurable outcomes.Embrace risk with guardrails: host data properly, verify AI sources, and implement governance.The market is split between early adopters and those scrambling to catch up; MSPs should lead with business value.Links for Companies, Products and Books: Synthreo: https://synthreo.ai Pax8: https://www.pax8.comMicrosoft (general): https://www.microsoft.comIT Nation: https://itnation.connectwise.com/CoPilot: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/copilotSPONSORS: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 INFORMATION: Website: 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 live IT Nation recap episode, Uncle Marv threads travel anecdotes, conference takeaways, and practical MSP automation into a cohesive narrative. He shares a whirlwind tour that included Lakeland, Philly, and Orlando, culminating in conference reflections and a candid look at the event’s content breadth. The episode doubles as a field report on vendor engagement, with attention to the PitchIT competition and the reality that large conferences often overwhelm attendees with sessions; the solution is deliberate planning and team division to maximize value.IT Nation’s PitchIT Finalists: 1st place, Strategy Overview: https://www.strategyoverview.com/2nd place: Mizo: https://mizo.tech/Steak Knives: ThreatCaptain: https://threatcaptain.com/Companies, Products & Books: IT Nation: https://itnation.connectwise.com/ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comASCII Edge / ASCII Cup: https://events.ascii.com/Domotz: https://www.domotz.comHP iLO: https://www.hpe.com/us/en/hpe-integrated-lights-out-ilo.htmlAction One: https://www.action1.comDisney (travel context): https://www.disney.comVendor Swag Shoutouts:Pure Storage: https://www.purestorage.comDriveSavers: https://drivesavers.comMSP CFO: https://mspcfo.com (branding referenced)SuperOps: https://www.superops.com MSP Camp: https://msp-camp.com/ThreatDown: https://www.threatdown.com/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 INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Join Uncle Marv and Eric Torres, VP of Channel and Community Engagement at Pax8, as they break down the latest in AI-powered MSP automation, cloud marketplaces, and the launch of Pax8’s pioneering agent store. Hear how the company is changing the way MSPs deliver value with customizable solutions and managed intelligence.​Takeaways: Pax8’s agent store enables MSPs to buy, sell, and create automation agents for new revenue streams.Managed intelligence is now a core MSP service, not just a feature; excel by adopting a holistic AI strategy.Guided assessments help MSPs understand and roadmap their journey to becoming managed intelligence providers.Security and user control are central to Pax8’s integration and data management model.Real-world agent success stories include restaurant, hospitality, and event management bots that save hours of manual work.Upcoming curriculum and agent stores are designed to meet MSPs wherever they are on their AI journey.​Cloud marketplace customization now gives MSPs direct control over client-facing solutions and shopping options.People, Products, Companies, Tools, EventsPax8: https://www.pax8.comUniversal Orlando: https://www.universalorlando.com/Goo Goo Dolls: https://www.googoodolls.com/Delta (Airlines): https://www.delta.com/Beyond (Pax8 event): https://beyond.pax8.com/ChannelCon (industry event, possible mention): https://www.comptia.org/channelcon​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 INFORMATION: Website: 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 welcomes Kristin Spiotto, co-founder of Decoded, to discuss the company’s recent rebrand and expanded services tailored for tech firms. Kirstin explains why messaging clarity is the foundation for any successful marketing plan and how they build comprehensive marketing roadmaps that align with business goals such as ARR and client acquisition numbers. From leveraging AI responsibly to harnessing LinkedIn effectively, Kristin delivers actionable insights for MSPs looking to optimize their marketing spend and measure true ROI. Takeaways: Messaging clarity is foundational for all marketing efforts to avoid noise.Marketing roadmaps start with business goals (ARR, clients) and reverse engineer lead generation needs.Full-service marketing includes brand awareness, demand generation, SQL/MQL conversion tracking.KPIs and OKRs are critical to measuring and optimizing campaigns effectively.Website optimization focuses on traffic, engagement time, and conversion actions.Email marketing still delivers best ROI when treated as relationship nurturing.AI tools like ChatGPT can scale content but require clear brand messaging input.LinkedIn should be used strategically for thought leadership and opt-in lead campaigns, not spam.Small MSPs should right-size marketing spends and tactics; avoid wasting money on ads without roadmap.Consistency in messaging and metrics tracking is key to seeing long-term results.People/Products/Companies/Tools/Events: Decoded: https://decodedstrategies.comChatGPT: https://chat.openai.comClaude (Anthropic): https://www.anthropic.com/product/claudePerplexity AI: https://www.perplexity.aiSales Navigator (LinkedIn): https://business.linkedin.com/sales-solutions/sales-navigatorGoogle Analytics: https://analytics.google.comStoryBrand Framework (Don Miller): https://storybrand.com/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 INFORMATION: Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast