Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast

In this episode of the IT Business Podcast, host Uncle Marv welcomes Frank DeLuca from The CTO Agency to discuss the challenges and opportunities in running an IT service business. Frank shares his journey from running a BBS at 13 to founding his own MSP, highlighting the importance of adapting to client needs and staying current with technology trends. The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Uncle Marv launches into a fiery rant about vendor-MSP relationships, sparked by a frustrating interaction with a young sales representative. This leads to a broader discussion on the changing landscape of IT services, including the push for long-term contracts and the need for better "rules of engagement" between vendors and MSPs. Frank and Uncle Marv dive into the complexities of selling cybersecurity solutions, particularly to insurance companies and law firms. They explore strategies for bundling services and the challenges of educating clients on the necessity of robust security measures. The episode wraps up with the popular "Florida Man" segment, featuring a shocking story about a Santa Claus impersonator arrested for child pornography, and a discussion on the technologies used to combat such crimes.Guest Bio:Frank DeLuca is the founder of The CTO Agency, an IT service provider specializing in professional services and insurance clients. With over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, Frank brings a wealth of knowledge on running a boutique MSP.Links and Websites: Vote for the 2024 Podcast Awards: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/survey/2024-podcast-awards/The CTO Agency - https://www.thectoagency.com/Florida 'Santa' Sentenced in Child Pornography Case:  https://tinyurl.com/mrynffcuSonicWall and CrowdStrike Join Forces: https://tinyurl.com/3xfcn3rzSonicWall - www.sonicwall.comCrowdStrike - www.crowdstrike.comSentinel One - www.sentinelone.comSophos - www.sophos.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

Uncle Marv sits down with Richie Wade, Manager of Sales Engineering at DNSFilter, to explore the cutting-edge world of DNS security. Richie shares insights on how DNSFilter is leveraging AI to detect threats up to 7 days faster than traditional methods, catching 70% of threats with their in-house solution. The conversation dives into DNSFilter's recent integrations with major PSAs like ConnectWise and Datto Autotask, aimed at streamlining workflows for MSPs. Richie explains how these integrations minimize administrative workload and improve billing accuracy. Uncle Marv and Richie also discuss the changing cybersecurity landscape, with Richie revealing a 14% increase in malware and a 36% overall increase in threats on their network this year alone. They emphasize that organizations of all sizes are potential targets, debunking the myth that only large enterprises are at risk. The podcast touches on DNSFilter's unique features, including on-demand categorization of new domains and the ability to block newly registered domains. Richie also previews upcoming features like URL filtering and hints at more MSP-focused integrations in the pipeline. Towards the end, they discuss DNSFilter's upcoming annual security report and the importance of staying ahead of emerging cyber threats. The episode wraps up with a teaser about DNSFilter's pricing changes and new features coming in the new year.=== Websites and Links Mentioned: DNSFIlter Announces Integration with Six Leading PSA Platforms: https://tinyurl.com/5n6ck2z8Rise in Malicious Domains: https://tinyurl.com/3m95kzffDNSFilter - https://www.dnsfilter.comSuperOps - https://superops.com/ConnectWise - https://www.connectwise.comDatto Autotask - https://www.datto.comPulseway - https://www.pulseway.comHalo - https://halopsa.com/N-Able - https://www.n-able.com/Syncro - https://www.syncromsp.comAppRiver - https://www.appriver.comRewst - https://rewst.io/=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE: Envato Elements Item This license certificate documents a license to use the item listed below on a non-exclusive, commercial, worldwide and revokable basis, for one Single Use for this Registered Project. Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETItem ID: CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNMLFor any queries related to this license please contact Envato Support via https://help.elements.envato.com/hc/en-us/requests/new or Envato Elements Pty Ltd (ABN 87 613 824 258) PO Box 16122, Collins St West, VIC 8007, Australia === 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 welcomes Zach Kromkowski, co-founder and CEO of Senteon, and winner of the 2024 IT Nation Pitch It competition. Zach kicks things off by sharing his recent transition to van life, discussing the challenges and goals behind this lifestyle change, including plans to visit MSP partners across the country. The conversation shifts to the state of MSP conferences, with Zach offering his perspective on the increasing number and scale of events. He emphasizes the importance of lowering barriers for innovative startups to participate and suggests more focused, skill-based conference tracks. Zach then dives into Senteon's journey, from its inception as an EDR platform to its current focus on automated system hardening based on CIS benchmarks. He discusses the pivots the company made, the importance of market research, and how the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly aided their development process. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the complexities of system hardening, highlighting the depth of knowledge required and the value of automated solutions in this space.Links and Websites: Senteon - https://senteon.co/ConnectWise - https://www.connectwise.com/Liongard - https://www.liongard.com/Compliance Scorecard - https://compliancescorecard.com/Florida Man Puts on Helmet; Intentionally Crashes into USAA Building: https://tinyurl.com/4yruecbpZach Previous Appearance on the IT Business Podcast: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/672=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE: Envato Elements Item This license certificate documents a license to use the item listed below on a non-exclusive, commercial, worldwide and revokable basis, for one Single Use for this Registered Project. Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETItem ID: CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNMLFor any queries related to this license please contact Envato Support via https://help.elements.envato.com/hc/en-us/requests/new or Envato Elements Pty Ltd (ABN 87 613 824 258) PO Box 16122, Collins St West, VIC 8007, Australia === 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

Listeners will be engaged by Marv's storytelling as he recounts a recent incident involving a $300,000 ransomware attack faced by a client due to poor security practices. He discusses how the lack of proper protections led to devastating consequences and stresses the significance of adopting a zero-trust framework. Marv outlines three core principles: never trust, always verifyleast privilege accessassume a breach.He also shares insights from his own client interactions, illustrating the challenges of implementing these principles in real-world scenarios. Additionally, Marv provides updates on upcoming shows, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday previews, encouraging listeners to explore valuable tech products for the holiday seasonWebsites and Links: *** Vote for the 2024 Podcast Awards: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/surveyThreatLocker: https://www.threatlocker.com/Black Friday Amazon Live with Eric Pinto: https://www.youtube.com/live/xCdVY_CWUOs?si=UWVsuza6N2plQwMoBlack Friday Amazon Live with Dawn Sizer: https://www.youtube.com/live/pNNgytMlNEI?si=JEjczLwCmOenn6iKPeople Mentioned for Shout OutsEric PintoDawn SizerErin Lawrence === 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 sits down with Paco Lebron, an MSP from the Chicago area and the mastermind behind MSP Unplugged. Paco shares his experience switching from Syncro to SuperOps about a year ago, shedding light on the reasons behind the move and the improvements he's seen. Paco discusses the early days of SuperOps, addressing some of the marketing controversies that initially surrounded the company. He emphasizes how SuperOps has since transformed its image and focused on community-first initiatives. The conversation dives into the key factors that led Paco to make the switch, including improved transparency in ticket management, real-time updates, and enhanced efficiency. Paco highlights SuperOps' user-friendly interface, responsive support, and commitment to continuous improvement as standout features. Uncle Marv and Paco also touch on areas where SuperOps is still developing, such as CRM functionality and sales automation. Paco, as a member of the SuperOps Advisory Board, provides insights into upcoming features and improvements without breaking any NDAs. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of choosing the right tools for your MSP and being open to change when necessary. It's a must-listen for MSPs considering a platform switch or looking to stay informed about the latest developments in the industry.Websites and Links: SuperOps - http://itbusinesspodcast.com/superopsSyncro - https://syncromsp.com/ProdigyTeks - https://www.prodigyteks.com/N-Able - https://www.n-able.com/Datto - https://www.datto.com/Kaseya - https://www.kaseya.com/PC Matic - https://www.pcmatic.com/Pax8 - https://www.pax8.com/People Mentioned: Juan FernandezEmily GlassTroyIan AlexanderRichardJohn DubinskyCramer SnuggsGene KimAndy Cormier === 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 delivers a mix of personal updates, industry news, and a surprising announcement. He kicks off by discussing his recent collaboration with Mike Smith on a client project in Fort Lauderdale, highlighting the benefits of his office space for out-of-town IT professionals. Marv then dives into cybersecurity awareness, sharing details about an upcoming training session he's conducting for a client. He discusses his approach to the training, including the use of informative videos and explanations of security measures like ThreatLocker and multi-factor authentication. The podcast covers recent industry news, including reports from Cujo AI and Keeper Security about the state of cybersecurity threats. Marv also touches on Kaseya's announcement of free hardware for Datto Siris, discussing its potential impact on MSPs and their clients. The episode's highlight is Marv's revelation that he's been approved as media personnel for the upcoming Florida Man Games in March 2025. He expresses his excitement and asks listeners for ideas on how to cover this unique event. Marv wraps up with two Florida Man stories, including a lawsuit against Netflix over streaming issues and a dramatic python-alligator rescue in the Everglades. He concludes with reflections on his recent experience as a subcontractor, offering insights into the perspective it provided.Websites and Links:Amazon Live: https://www.amazon.com/liveEasy Cater: https://www.ezcater.com/Florida Man Sues Netflix Over Tyson-Paul Fight: https://tinyurl.com/3944smkcFlorida Man Saves Alligator from Monster Python: https://tinyurl.com/49t5rt56People Mentioned for Shoutouts: Mike SmithMichael Smith Jr.Dawn SizerErin LawrenceJay McBainFrank DiBenedetto === 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 action-packed episode, Uncle Marv sits down with Rob Rae, the self-proclaimed "godfather of the channel" from Pax8, to discuss the recent ConnectWise partnership announcement and the new Voyager partner program. Rob dishes on the reasoning behind credit card surcharges and how Pax8 is investing in better tools and experiences for MSPs. The conversation takes a fun turn as they debate the merits of rappers versus a cappella groups for tech conference entertainment. Next up, Mark Ralls, president of Auvik, joins the show to talk about their network monitoring and management tool designed specifically for MSPs. Mark highlights Auvik's standout feature - its network mapping capabilities - and how it integrates seamlessly with ConnectWise to provide frictionless IT solutions. He also teases their new NorthStar feature, which helps technicians visualize and troubleshoot network issues more effectively. Both guests offer valuable insights into the evolving MSP landscape, upcoming industry events, and the importance of creating exceptional experiences for partners and clients alike. Guest Bios:Rob Rae: SVP of Business Development at Pax8, known for his energetic presence and deep understanding of the MSP ecosystem.Mark Ralls: President at Auvik, bringing extensive experience in network management solutions tailored for MSPs.Websites Mentioned: Pax8: https://www.pax8.comAuvik: https://www.auvik.comConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.comPeople Mentioned for Shout Outs: Flo RidaLudacrisNellySnoop DoggFatboy SlimPentatonixKenny G === 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 action-packed episode of the IT Business Podcast, Uncle Marv serves up two interviews straight from the bustling floor of IT Nation Connect in Orlando. First up, Vinh Pham from Secureframe breaks down how their compliance automation platform is revolutionizing the way MSPs handle frameworks like CMMC, NIST, and CIS. Vinh explains how Secureframe's continuous monitoring keeps clients compliant in real-time, not just with point-in-time snapshots. He also dishes on their free partner program and the game-changing GAFA assessment tool. Then, James Allen from PIA takes the mic, sharing how their AI-powered service desk solution is transforming MSP profitability. James drops some jaw-dropping stats, including one partner who boosted their endpoint-per-tech ratio from 190 to 357! He also teases an upcoming presentation titled "I gave ChatGPT 50,000 tickets and this is the result" - talk about spicy! Both guests offer unique perspectives on how emerging technologies are reshaping the MSP landscape. From streamlining compliance to supercharging service desks, this episode is packed with insights to help your MSP level up. Guest Bios:Vinh Pham is from Secureframe, a compliance automation platform helping MSPs turn security frameworks into revenue generators.James Allen is the Vice President of Sales at PIA, bringing AI-powered efficiency to MSP service desks from his base in Tampa, Florida.Websites Mentioned: Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/partnersPIA: https://pia.ai/People Mentioned for Shout Outs: MannyTim CoachBrook LeeJoe A. ToddAaron HadibaziTodd ClarkGary PicaPeter KajawaSean from TagMarissa from TagJohn from CMIT === 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’s IT Business Podcast welcomes Henry Timm, the dynamic CEO of Phantom Technology Solutions, who shares his insights on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of managed IT services. This episode dives into the balance between running a successful MSP and actively participating in industry events, highlighting the importance of community and collaboration among IT professionals. Henry emphasizes that success in this field is not just about profit but also about fostering relationships and supporting one another in a competitive environment. In this engaging conversation, Uncle Marv and Henry explore the challenges and rewards of attending nearly 50 industry events in a year. Henry discusses how his strong team and established systems allow him to manage his MSP effectively while being a prominent figure in the tech community. They touch on the shifting dynamics between MSPs, vendors, and private equity, advocating for a more collaborative approach that prioritizes community over competition. Henry also introduces listeners to the Tech Degenerates, a vibrant community of MSPs and vendors that fosters knowledge sharing and support without the pressure of sales pitches.Guest Bio:Henry Timm is the CEO of Phantom Technology Solutions, a managed IT services provider based in Rolling Prairie, Indiana, dedicated to empowering businesses across the Midwest since 2010. Websites and Links:Phantom Technology Solutions: phantomtechsolutions.comFlorida man accused of stabbing brother in neck for ‘talking over’ food while cooking: https://tinyurl.com/54wyycnjCompression Packing Cubes: https://amzn.to/40NYV4mPeople Mentioned for Shout Outs:JB FowlerJohn CarloMike SmithRob Rae === 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, Uncle Marv sits down with Kip Fanta from GetInSync and Mark Alayev from Thread to discuss the latest developments in MSP services and AI technology. Kip Fanta, newly joined with GetInSync, talks about the company's focus on VCIO services and helping MSPs communicate better with their clients. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the full IT landscape and how Get In Sync can help MSPs move up the value chain, especially in co-managed IT scenarios. Kip also touches on the customization capabilities of their platform and the financial model that benefits both MSPs and their clients. Mark Alayev, CEO of Thread, dives deep into the world of AI-driven service desks. He discusses Thread's new product, which uses agentic AI to create custom agents for different industries. Mark emphasizes the importance of giving MSPs control over AI behavior and explains how Thread's solution focuses on human-to-human communication while integrating with system-to-system automation. He also shares his thoughts on the future of AI in the MSP industry, predicting that 20-35% of service desk requests could be fully automated in the near future. Both interviews provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of MSP services and the role of AI in shaping the future of IT support. Guest Bios:Kip Fanta: Former Procter & Gamble IT professional, now driving partner relationships at Get In Sync, focusing on VCIO services for MSPs. Mark Alayev: CEO of Thread, leading the charge in AI-driven service desk solutions for MSPs. Websites Mentioned: Get In Sync: https://getinsync.ca/Thread: https://www.getthread.com/People Mentioned for Shout Outs: Stuart Holtby Bobby Jacobs === 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