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

Introduction to Aaron Painter and Nametag: Uncle Marv introduces Aaron Painter, highlighting his role as CEO of Nametag, a platform dedicated to enhancing identity verification processes to prevent impersonation and fraud.The North Korean Hacker Incident: The conversation kicks off with a discussion about the notorious case of a North Korean hacker who successfully applied for a job. Aaron explains how this incident reflects broader vulnerabilities in the hiring process, particularly in remote work scenarios.Challenges in Identity Verification: Aaron discusses the inadequacies of traditional identity verification methods, including the I-9 process and how they fail to secure organizations against impersonators. He emphasizes that many companies unknowingly hire individuals who may not be who they claim to be.The Rise of Deepfakes: The duo explores the implications of deepfake technology in hiring fraud and social engineering attacks. They discuss how bad actors can exploit these technologies to bypass security measures.Innovative Solutions from Nametag: Aaron introduces Nametag's unique approach to identity verification using mobile devices, biometrics, and cryptography. He explains how their solution enhances security while ensuring a user-friendly experience.Automating Help Desk Operations: The conversation shifts to how Nametag can help automate password resets and MFA processes, significantly reducing the burden on help desks. Aaron highlights the potential for MSPs to integrate this technology into their service offerings.Education and Awareness: Both Marv and Aaron stress the importance of educating clients about the risks associated with deepfakes and social engineering tactics. They discuss how a healthy skepticism can empower users to recognize potential threats.Onboarding New Employees: Aaron outlines how Nametag streamlines the onboarding process for new hires by ensuring secure identity verification from day one. This proactive approach can mitigate hiring fraud risks.Reseller Opportunities for MSPs: The episode concludes with a discussion on how MSPs can leverage Nametag's technology for their clients, enhancing security while potentially increasing profitability through reselling opportunities.Website Mentioned:Nametag: https://www.getnametag.comIs Your Coworker a Korean Hacker?: https://tinyurl.com/5n96fja6 === 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 kicks off the show by introducing Tim Coach and his new position at Cynomi. Tim explains the company's name, inspired by the manta ray from Finding Nemo, symbolizing protection and guidance in cybersecurity. The conversation dives into Cynomi's VCISO platform, which simplifies security assessments and compliance roadmaps for MSPs. Tim highlights how the software streamlines processes that traditionally took days or weeks, making it easier for MSPs to offer VCISO services and improve their clients' security posture. They discuss the platform's key features, including customizable frameworks, AI-assisted reporting, and integration capabilities with other security tools. Tim emphasizes the importance of MSPs focusing on business outcomes rather than just selling technology stacks. The duo explores pricing strategies for MSPs, with Tim sharing insights on how to approach different client types, including non-profits and regulated industries. They also touch on the evolving landscape of MSSPs and the potential for industry certifications. The episode concludes with a lighthearted segment on Florida Man stories and an upcoming HBO documentary series inspired by the infamous meme.Websites mentioned: Cynomi: https://www.cynomi.comIt's Florida, Man!: https://tinyurl.com/bdewvbpf === 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 kicks off with the latest on Hurricane Milton, now a Category 4 storm with 155 mph winds, expected to make landfall near Sarasota around 10-12 PM. He emphasizes the storm's massive size, affecting areas from the Panhandle to the Keys. Using the Windy.com app, Marv illustrates the storm's path and potential impacts. He shares emergency numbers and highlights Uber's free evacuation rides using the code MILTONRELIEF. Marv recounts recent IT challenges, including remote access issues and power failures, underscoring the importance of proper preparation. He mentions ASCII's offer to help Tampa-area IT providers post-storm. Scott Dollar joins to share his perspective from Tampa. He discusses his company's preparations, including notifying clients, securing equipment, and ensuring cloud-based systems are ready. Scott notes most of his clients are now cloud-based, simplifying disaster recovery. They compare experiences from past hurricanes, with Scott recalling 2004's Hurricane Charlie. Both stress the importance of heeding evacuation orders and being prepared with supplies. The conversation turns to proactive measures like regular UPS battery replacements and the challenge of getting clients to invest in disaster preparedness before a crisis hits. They wrap up by discussing Florida's well-organized hurricane response compared to other states, and the unexpected threats like tornadoes that can accompany hurricanes.Websites mentioned: Windy.com - https://www.windy.comNational Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/SpaghettiModels.com - https://www.spaghettimodels.comPhone Numbers and Websites - Hurricane MiltonEmergency ContactsEmergency Services: 911American Red Cross: 1-800-733-2767FEMA Disaster Assistance: 1-800-621-3362Special Needs Shelters (Orange County): 311 or 407-836-3111Florida State Emergency Information Line: 1-800-342-3557Websites for Updates and InformationWindy: https://www.windy.comFlorida Division of Emergency Management: FloridaDisaster.orgFlorida Shelter Status: FloridaDisaster.org/shelter-statusFEMA Hurricane Milton Updates: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/current/hurricane-miltonAmerican Red Cross Shelter Locator: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.htmlEvacuation InformationEvacuation Assistance: 800-729-3413Florida Disaster Evacuation Routes: FloridaDisaster.org/evacuation-routesFree Evacuation Rides (Uber): Use promo code MILTONRELIEF in the Uber app === 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 kicks off the episode with a comprehensive update on Hurricane Milton's status as of Tuesday afternoon. The storm has been downgraded to a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 155 mph, moving east at 12 mph towards the Gulf Coast. Projected to make landfall near Tampa Bay around 1-2 AM Thursday morning, Milton is expected to hit as a high-end Category 3 or low-end Category 4 hurricane. Uncle Marv details the extensive storm surge warnings in effect, with potential inundation of 10-15 feet along the coast. Rainfall predictions range from 6-8 inches, with localized totals up to 15 inches. Uncle Marv emphasizes the already saturated ground conditions due to recent rains, increasing flood risks. A state of emergency has been declared for 51 Florida counties, with most of the west coast under evacuation orders. Several major airports, including Tampa International, Orlando International, and Melbourne International, have announced closures. Uncle Marv then welcomes Rayanne Buchianico, reporting live from Clearwater, Florida. Rayanne explains her decision to stay and ride out the storm, citing her inland location away from flood zones and access to a sturdy office building with a full generator. She describes the eerie atmosphere in her neighborhood as many have evacuated. The conversation turns to the chaos leading up to a hurricane, with Rayanne advising listeners to avoid grocery stores and gas stations if possible due to long lines and panic buying. She shares her experiences from previous storms like Hurricane Irma in 2017, which left her without power for a week. Both hosts stress the importance of following evacuation orders, especially for those in flood zones or less sturdy housing. Rayanne highlights the stricter building codes implemented in Florida since 2003, making newer homes more hurricane-resistant. The episode concludes with advice on managing stress during hurricane preparations and the importance of having important documents stored electronically in the cloud. Uncle Marv shows viewers a map of Hurricane Milton's projected path and reminds everyone to stay informed through local authorities and weather services. === 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 kicks off the episode with a detailed breakdown of Hurricane Milton's projected path and potential impact on Florida. Using the Windy app, he explains the storm's trajectory, intensity, and the areas most likely to be affected. Marv emphasizes the importance of preparedness and shares personal anecdotes about his family's situation during this challenging time. The podcast then shifts focus to introduce Ray Cline and Ryan Garrity from TEKnowledge, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Ray explains that TEKnowledge was founded by four MSP business owners to address gaps in the tech industry and give back to communities in need. Over the past three years, they've donated over $500,000 worth of products and services through their TEKSgiving projects. Ryan Garrity provides insights into their current project in Davidson, North Carolina, at La Escuelita (The Little School). This bilingual school helps Spanish-speaking students and immigrants learn English before entering the regular school system. TEKnowledge is providing security, network, and audio-visual solutions to the school, which currently lacks these resources. The conversation touches on the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, with Ryan describing the current conditions in Asheville as resembling a "third world country." He shares heartbreaking stories of missing employees and the challenges faced by local communities. Ray and Ryan discuss how TEKnowledge operates, including their selection process for projects, the organization's structure, and their active Slack community. They highlight the generosity of their members and partners in donating equipment and funds for their charitable initiatives. The episode concludes with Uncle Marv thanking Ray and Ryan for their efforts and encouraging listeners to learn more about TEKnowledge and get involved in their community.Websites mentioned:TEKnowledge - https://www.teknowledge.org === 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 Annie Mosbacher and Kristin Spiotto, co-founders of Decoded Strategies, to discuss their unique approach to marketing for MSPs. The conversation kicks off with a lighthearted chat about recent movies, setting the stage for a deeper dive into storytelling in marketing. Annie and Kristin explain how their company differs from traditional marketing agencies by focusing on story-based strategies. They emphasize the importance of positioning the customer as the hero and the company as the guide in marketing narratives. This approach helps MSPs create more engaging and effective marketing messages that resonate with their target audience. The duo highlights common mistakes MSPs make in their marketing efforts, such as jumping straight into tactics without developing a clear brand story. They stress the need for MSPs to invest time in crafting their unique message before spending money on websites, SEO, or other marketing channels. Annie and Kristin share insights on how MSPs can become trusted guides for their clients, emphasizing the importance of empathy and authority in marketing communications. They also discuss the challenges of differentiating in a crowded market and offer strategies for standing out. The conversation touches on Decoded Strategies' journey into the MSP space, their partnerships with industry organizations like ASCII, and their upcoming workshop for MSPs looking to improve their marketing strategies. Throughout the episode, Annie and Kristin provide valuable advice for MSPs looking to enhance their marketing efforts, emphasizing the power of clear, customer-centric messaging and the importance of storytelling in building lasting client relationships.Websites mentioned:Decoded Strategies - www.decodedstrategies.comPodcast: https://tinyurl.com/35yfpa2uContact for ASCII Webinar? Email hello@decodedstrategies.comWild Robot Movie Trailer:  https://tinyurl.com/bdj8un77  === 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 kicks off the show by addressing the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, particularly in the Western Carolina and Eastern Tennessee areas. The storm caused significant damage, with at least 162 deaths reported and 1.3 million customers still without power across several states. The conversation then shifts to disaster recovery planning, with Jason and Justine sharing their thoughts on preparing for unexpected events. They discuss the importance of cloud-based solutions and the need for comprehensive disaster recovery strategies, even in areas not typically prone to certain types of natural disasters. The podcast delves into the recent TechCon Unplugged conference, with both guests offering their insights and takeaways. They highlight the quality of content, the value of networking opportunities, and the unique atmosphere that sets TechCon apart from larger industry events. The discussion touches on topics such as hiring practices, process improvements, and the benefits of smaller, more intimate conferences. Uncle Marv also announces his decision to join the National Society of IT Service Providers (NSITSP), an organization focused on transforming the IT industry into a recognized profession and establishing high standards and ethics for IT service providers. The episode concludes with a lighthearted segment featuring "Florida Man" stories, including amusing anecdotes from Oklahoma and Florida, showcasing the quirky side of local news.Links from the show: National Society of IT Service Providers (NSITSP) - https://nsitsp.org/Oklahoma Man steals truck to go to  court: https://tinyurl.com/2bjh2m8hFlorida Man "going to jail as a pickle thief":  https://tinyurl.com/yc3n52veOklahoma Woman drives drunk on airport runway: https://tinyurl.com/2fnaz6a2Upcoming Conferences:ASCII Edge (The Cup) October 23-24 in Tampa: https://events.ascii.com/tampa/DattoCon, October 28-30 in Miami: https://www.dattocon.com/IT Nation Connect, November 6-8 in Orlando: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/connect-naSave $250 complements of the IT Business Podcast with Promo Code MarvinBPodcast250 === 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 kicks off the episode by apologizing for not addressing Hurricane Helene earlier in the week. He provides an update on the hurricane's impact, mentioning its landfall as a Category 4 storm near Perry, with winds reaching 140 mph and affecting millions of residents. He then shares his go-to hurricane tracking apps: Hurricane Tracker (paid version for faster alerts)Windy (for detailed wind speed information)MyRadar (for comprehensive weather data and forecasts)The main focus of the episode is a recent conversation Uncle Marv had with a new business owner. This entrepreneur had encountered a challenging prospective client and made the tough decision to decline the opportunity. Uncle Marv applauds this decision and outlines three key takeaways: Recognizing and declining problematic clients early: Uncle Marv emphasizes the importance of identifying red flags in potential clients, such as undervaluing expertise or having unrealistic expectations.Setting clear boundaries and expectations: He stresses the need for a structured onboarding process and clear communication of responsibilities between the service provider and the client.Focusing on quality over quantity: Uncle Marv shares his own experience of running a "boutique" business, highlighting the benefits of specializing in a specific industry (in his case, law firms) and concentrating on high-value services.The episode concludes with encouragement for new and struggling business owners to be selective with clients and prioritize quality relationships for long-term success.Websites MentionedHurricane Tracker app (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-hurricane-tracker-alerts/id1020486515)Windy app (https://www.windy.com)MyRadar app (https://myradar.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 kicks off the show with exciting news about Eric Torres joining Pax8 as the vice president of channel and community engagement. He then introduces his guest, John Boden from Questing Hound Technology Partners, a Florida-based MSP. John shares the unique story behind his company's name, which originates from a John Masefield poem and his family's sailing adventures. The conversation shifts to Questing Hound's services, including managed IT and co-managed IT solutions for various industries, with a focus on businesses that embrace technology. The main topic of discussion is TruGrid, a secure remote access solution that both Marv and John highly recommend. They explore the benefits of TruGrid, including its ease of use, security features, and integration with Active Directory. John emphasizes how TruGrid helped his company navigate the challenges of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. The podcast also covers MSP strategies, with John sharing insights on standardization, client onboarding, and the importance of evaluating vendor relationships beyond just product features. He stresses the significance of working with companies that align with MSP goals and continuously improve their offerings. Naked Florida Man: https://tinyurl.com/4728rtfrUpcoming Conferences:ASCII Edge (The Cup) October 23-24 in Tampa: https://events.ascii.com/tampa/DattoCon, October 28-30 in Miami: https://www.dattocon.com/IT Nation Connect, November 6-8 in Orlando: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/connect-naSave $250 complements of the IT Business Podcast with Promo Code MarvinBPodcast250Websites Mentioned: Questing Hound Technology Partners: https://questinghound.comTruGrid: https://trugrid.comNetAlly: https://netally.comSuperOps: https://superops.aiPax8: https://pax8.comAxcient: https://axcient.comClio: https://clio.comMeraki: https://meraki.cisco.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 kicks off the show by thanking the organizers of TechCon Unplugged, praising the strong sense of community at the event. He announces ESET as the winner of the best conference swag, highlighting their useful battery chargers and other items. Marv then dives into a personal story about his ongoing struggles with AmeriGas, a propane delivery service. He uses this experience to emphasize the importance of effective automation and customer service in the IT industry, warning listeners not to fall into similar traps with their own businesses. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to comparing small and large conferences. Uncle Marv shares his preference for smaller events like TechCon Unplugged, citing the increased opportunities for meaningful interactions and the tight-knit community feel. He acknowledges the benefits of larger conferences for newcomers seeking to explore a wide range of vendors but emphasizes the unique value of the connections made at smaller gatherings. The show wraps up with Florida man stories, including an update on the 2024 Florida Python Challenge winner, a bizarre traffic stop involving a man with a live squirrel in his shirt, and the discovery of a mummified alligator head in an abandoned car.Links: Get Your TechCon Unplugged 2024 Swag: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast/shopFlorida Man Bags 20 Pythons to Win $10,000: https://tinyurl.com/bdft7x54Police Find Squirrel in Man's Shirt: https://tinyurl.com/mwjnukheAlligator head found in abandoned Buick–in Florida: https://tinyurl.com/hv6p9t8h === 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