Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast

Join Uncle Marv and Brook Lee as they swap stories from the road, sharing the secrets to building authentic vendor relationships and the value of thinking outside the box. From event etiquette to real-world onboarding challenges, they share stories and strategies that will help you spot the best fit for your business. Plus, get ready for a world tour of food, travel, and unforgettable networking moments—because in the IT world, sometimes the best connections are made over a hot dog on a curb at 2 a.m.Why Listen:Learn how to choose vendors who “get” MSPsDiscover event networking and vendor etiquette tipsHear behind-the-scenes stories from PAX 8 BeyondGet inspired by Liongard’s innovative approachEnjoy travel and foodie adventures from the roadCompanies, Products & Books MentionedLiongard – https://liongard.comPAX 8 – https://pax8.comBao Brewhouse (Denver, CO) – https://baobrewhouse.com Starbucks Reserve (Chicago, IL) – https://starbucksreserve.comBrooke Lee is a key leader at Liongard, a company known for its innovative approach to IT automation and its strong focus on MSP experience. With a background in MSP operations and a passion for authentic partnerships, Brooke brings real-world insights and a refreshing honesty to every conversation. She’s also a travel and food enthusiast, always on the lookout for the next great meal or memorable adventure.Website: https://liongard.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookatliongard/=== SPONSORSProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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

Ever feel like your MSP is drowning in data but starved for context? Jeffrey Newton, co-founder of CYFT, shares how his AI-driven platform is giving MSPs real-time situational awareness—automating documentation, enriching tickets, and ensuring techs have the right info before they even pick up a call. Listen to why “best practice” may not always be in your best interest and how CYFT is changing the game for MSPs who want to break free from the industry’s echo chamber.Why Listen:Hear how CYFT automates documentation and ticket enrichmentLearn why “best practice” may not always serve your MSPGet actionable insights for MSP efficiency and growthDiscover how real-time context can transform your tech team’s workflowCompanies, Products, and Books MentionedCYFT – https://cyft.aiIT Glue – https://www.itglue.comHudu– https://hudu.com/MSP Insider (Podcast) – https://open.spotify.com/show/4r2LUeKoShqAwwpytAVpYO=== SPONSORSProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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

If you’ve ever dreamed of building your own home lab or wondered how to get started with Synology, Unraid, or TrueNAS, this episode is for you. Uncle Marv and Mike Wieger break down the pros and cons of each platform, explain the magic of Docker and containerization, and share practical tips for home automation and security. Get inspired to tinker, break, and learn—just like the pros do!Why Listen:Learn how to set up a powerful home lab on a budgetDiscover the best NAS solutions for your needsUnderstand Docker and containerization in plain EnglishGet tips for home automation and securityHear real-world consulting stories from a tech-savvy attorneyGuest Bio: Mike Wieger is a former attorney and current tech enthusiast who has built a robust home lab featuring Synology, Unraid, and TrueNAS servers. He is passionate about open-source software, home automation, and sharing his knowledge with others. Mike has consulted for small businesses and friends, helping them set up secure, efficient IT solutions.Fiber Wars, Fast Networks, and Smarter Health Tech with Mike Wieger (Podcast): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fiber-wars-fast-networks-and-smarter-health-tech-with/id457300409?i=1000712868122Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned:Synology: https://www.synology.com/Unraid: https://unraid.net/TrueNAS: https://www.truenas.com/Proxmox: https://www.proxmox.com/Home Assistant: https://www.home-assistant.io/Jellyfin: https://jellyfin.org/Frigate: https://frigate.video/Ubiquiti (Unifi):https://www.ui.com/PFSense: https://www.pfsense.org/Docker: https://www.docker.com/Podman: https://podman.io/Oracle Cloud (VPS):https://www.oracle.com/cloud/QNAP: https://www.qnap.com/Nextcloud: https://nextcloud.com/Plex: https://www.plex.tv/=== SPONSORSPremier 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 LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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 manage hundreds of Intune tenants without ever repeating the same task? Colin Britton shares how Devicie’s runbooks and automation tools make it possible, while also providing deep insights into endpoint health and security. Learn about their new Reporting Connector for Edge for Business and how it brings browser security into focus for modern IT environments. Why Listen:Find out how Devicie makes Intune management scalable and secureLearn about the latest automation and reporting featuresHear real-world examples of MSP and IT collaborationGet expert advice on managing complex Microsoft environmentsDiscover the future of agentic IT and automationColin Britton is a seasoned leader in the MSP space with over a dozen years of experience, currently driving Devicie’s expansion into the US market. Devicie Website: https://devicie.comColin Britton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinbritton/Companies, Products, and Books MentionedDevicie: https://devicie.comMicrosoft Intune: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/endpoint-management/microsoft-intuneMicrosoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365Edge for Business: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge/businessDefender for Endpoint: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/endpoint-security/microsoft-defender-endpointEssential 8 (Australian Security Framework): https://www.cyber.gov.au/resources-business-and-government/essential-cyber-security/essential-eight=== SPONSORSInternet 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/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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

Eric Torres joins Uncle Marv to discuss the power of community, peer groups, and collaboration in the MSP industry. Eric shares his personal journey, the importance of vendor partnerships, and how PAX 8 is helping MSPs transition to MSP 3.0—where AI and intelligence drive business success.Eric shares his journey from Milwaukee to Melbourne, his passion for travel, and the importance of professional friendships in the IT channel. The conversation dives into the power of peer groups, the value of vendor collaborations, and how PAX 8 is helping MSPs navigate the transition to MSP 3.0—where AI and intelligence are at the forefront. Eric also highlights the importance of ongoing education, the resources available to PAX 8 partners, and the exciting announcements coming out of Beyond 2025.Why Listen:Learn how to build and leverage MSP peer groups for accelerated growth.Discover the power of vendor collaboration and a vendor-agnostic mindset.Get insider access to the latest PAX 8 announcements and resources.Understand the transition from MSP 2.0 to MSP 3.0 and the role of AI.Hear real-world stories and lessons from a decade in the IT channel.Gain practical tips for building strong professional relationships and community.Find out how ongoing education and training are helping MSPs succeed.Guest: Eric Torres is the Vice President of Channel and Community Engagement at PAX 8, where he leads efforts to grow the partner community and drive engagement across the MSP ecosystem. With a background spanning multiple industry-leading companies, Eric is a respected leader and advocate for peer groups, vendor collaboration, and continuous learning in the IT channel.Website: PAX 8LinkedIn: Eric Torres on LinkedInCompanies, Products, and Books Mentioned: PAX 8 – https://www.pax8.comConnectWise – https://www.connectwise.comOpenText – https://www.opentext.comMicrosoft – https://www.microsoft.comScalePad – https://www.scalepad.comPAX 8 Marketplace– https://www.pax8.com/marketplacePAX 8 Academy – https://www.pax8.com/academy=== SPONSORSInternet 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/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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 lead product in a company that’s always pushing boundaries? Libby McIlhany shares her journey from software engineer to Chief Product Officer at PAX 8, revealing how she and her team are shaping the future of the IT marketplace. From the dot-com crash to the AI revolution, this episode is a masterclass in tech leadership.Why Listen:Gain perspective on the evolution of the IT channelHear how PAX 8 is innovating with public storefronts and integrationsLearn about the role of UX research in building world-class productsGet inspired by stories of resilience and adaptability in techUnderstand how to make the most of feedback and iterationGuest:Libby McIlhany is the Chief Product Officer at PAX 8, where she leads product strategy and innovation for one of the fastest-growing companies in the IT channel. Website: https://www.pax8.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcilhany/Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned:LeapFrog (educational games and toys) – https://www.leapfrog.comU.S. Robotics (modems) – https://www.usr.com=== SPONSORSInternet 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/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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

Ever wonder how to secure remote access without costly VPNs? DefensX’s new ZTNA product is designed for MSPs and enterprises, offering granular control and flexible deployment. Dave Maik explains why their approach is different—and why MSPs are raving about the ability to mix and match features to fit client needs. Why Listen:Hear the story behind DefensX’s Innovator Vendor of the Year awardExplore new ZTNA and browser security featuresLearn how DefensX supports MSPs with easy, flexible integrationsGain actionable advice for protecting against AI and browser-based attacksGet inspired by real-world success stories from the MSP communityCompanies, Products, and Books Mentioned: DefensX – https://www.defensx.comPax8 – https://www.pax8.comMicrosoft Copilot – https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-copilotHalo (MSP platform) – https://www.halopsa.comRewst – https://rewst.io/=== SPONSORSInternet 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/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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

Kim Simmonds, founder of Cloud Contracts 365, shares how her platform is transforming legal services for MSPs by automating contract creation, management, and risk review. With AI-powered tools, unlimited e-signatures, and direct access to US lawyers, MSPs of any size can now protect their business and grow with confidence.Why Listen:Learn how to automate contract management and risk review for your MSPDiscover the benefits of unlimited e-signatures and automated renewal remindersHear Kim’s inspiring journey from New York law to UK tech innovationGet insights on how legal tech is making legal protection affordable and accessibleFind out how Cloud Contracts 365 is helping MSPs meet insurance requirements and increaseWhy Listen: Automate contract creation, management, and risk review for your MSPAccess unlimited e-signatures and automated renewal remindersGet direct support from US lawyers through the platformBuild state-specific contracts tailored to your jurisdictionStay compliant with changing legal and insurance requirementsIncrease your MSP’s valuation and protect your businessLearn from Kim Simmonds’ unique journey from law to tech innovationDiscover how legal tech is making legal protection affordable and accessibleFind out how Cloud Contracts 365 is helping MSPs grow safely and confidentlyCompanies, Products, and Books MentionedCloud Contracts 365– https://cloudcontracts365.comPAX 8 – https://www.pax8.comMicrosoft Partners– https://partner.microsoft.comAdobe Sign – https://acrobat.adobe.com/us/en/sign.html=== SPONSORSInternet 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/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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 and Corey Kirkendoll explore the latest developments in managed IT, from the impact of AI and automation to the importance of community and collaboration. They discuss memorable moments from recent conferences, including IT Nation Secure and Pax8 Beyond, and share insights on how to navigate information overload and make strategic technology choices. Corey emphasizes the need for MSPs to brand their offerings and maintain flexibility in their tech stack, while also highlighting the value of customer relationships and follow-up. Why Listen: Actionable Insights: Learn how to scale your MSP, leverage AI, and build a customer-focused business.Real-World Stories: Hear behind-the-scenes tales from IT conferences and the latest trends in swag and technology.Expert Advice: Gain practical tips from Corey Kirkendoll, a seasoned MSP leader with over 30 years of experience.Community Focus: Discover the value of collaboration, documentation, and community-driven growth in the IT industry.Entertainment Value: Enjoy a mix of humor, Florida Man stories, and industry insights that make this episode both informative and fun.Florida Man Shoots Ex-Boss: https://www.perplexity.ai/page/florida-man-shoots-ex-boss-GfcwQEIrScOMZLjactisbAGuest: Corey Kirkendoll is President and CEO of 5K Technical Services, an award-winning managed service provider (MSP) serving small and midsize businesses in North Texas. Company Website: https://www.5ktech.comLinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykirkendollCompanies, Products, and Books Mentioned: Cavelo – https://www.cavelo.comSyncro – https://www.syncromsp.comAbsolute – https://www.absolute.comWatchGuard – https://www.watchguard.comCode Hunter – https://www.codehunter.comDevicie – https://www.devicie.comConnectWise – https://www.connectwise.comAutotask – https://www.autotask.comNinjaOne – https://www.ninjaone.comHuntress – https://www.huntress.comSentinelOne – https://www.sentinelone.comOpenText – https://www.opentext.com=== SPONSORSPremier 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 LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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

Brad Gross joins Uncle Marv to recap the PAX8 Beyond show in Denver, sharing first-hand insights as both an exhibitor and industry legal expert. They discuss the exhaustion and excitement of booth life, the launch of the MSP Terms cloud platform, and the critical new FTC rules on auto-renewals affecting MSPs and vendors. The episode covers legal pitfalls, vendor agreements, client lawsuits, and the importance of clear contracts and expectation management for MSPs.Why ListenGet expert legal advice on the new FTC auto-renewal rules impacting MSPs and vendors.Learn practical strategies for managing contracts and client expectations.Discover how MSP Terms can streamline your contract process and boost compliance.Hear real-world stories from the PAX8 Beyond show, including lessons from the exhibitor floor.Understand the risks of vendor agreements and how to avoid common traps.Find out how to protect your MSP from client lawsuits and liability.Companies, Products & Books Mentioned MSP Terms: https://www.mspterms.comPAX8: https://www.pax8.com=== SPONSORSPremier 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 LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item 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