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

Anup Ghosh, a cybersecurity expert and leader at ThreatMate, discusses innovative approaches to attack surface management. He emphasizes the need to view security through an adversarial lens, identifying security exposures like insecure protocols. The conversation highlights ThreatMate's AI-powered platform, which conducts continuous audits and integrates with ConnectWise for streamlined vulnerability management. Anup also sheds light on their partnership with SeedPod Cyber, offering ransomware insurance to clients, underscoring the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

Shanna Utgard, a cybersecurity expert who survived a ransom attack, shares her inspiring journey while delving into a major IT outage involving Microsoft, CrowdStrike, and Delta Airlines. The conversation highlights the complexities of third-party losses in cybersecurity and the ensuing blame game among tech giants. They also discuss the surprising rise of Zoom as the go-to remote support tool, comparing it to Microsoft Teams with a sprinkle of humor about Star Trek Picard, showing their engaging chemistry and shared interests in tech and sci-fi.

Marvin, a key figure in MSP Process discussions, and Chris, an expert on user verification, shed light on their innovative platform. They detail how it prevents unauthorized access and combats AI voice phishing. The duo emphasizes the importance of technician verification and encrypted data storage on Azure. Chris shares exciting insights on how AI can enhance MSP operations. Lastly, they discuss the platform's flexible pricing model and the potential for future growth in security and client communication strategies.

MacKenzie Brown from Blackpoint Cyber offers a wealth of insight, balancing her roles in threat research and SOC support. She dives into the vital need for democratizing threat intelligence, making it more accessible for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). MacKenzie discusses the difference between academic and real-world intelligence, addressing the unique challenges MSPs face, such as limited resources and client education. She also emphasizes the importance of strong vendor partnerships that provide actionable insights, rather than just tools.

Rob Rae, the 'godfather of the channel,' shares his expert insights from the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry. He emphasizes the vital role of community building and relationships in achieving long-term success. Rae discusses how the pandemic and younger generations are reshaping technology consumption, pushing towards marketplace models. He reflects on Pax8's growth and the importance of face-to-face interactions, highlighting that the lifetime value of MSP contracts far surpasses direct vendor sales. Exciting times lie ahead for the MSP sector!

In this episode, Ted and Woody explain the functionality of Uncompromized, which provides identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and internet privacy for individuals. They detail how the service allows MSPs to invite clients to subscribe easily, offering them immediate monitoring and protection against identity theft. The discussion also touches on the significance of scrubbing personal information from data broker sites, a feature that sets Uncompromized apart from traditional identity protection services. Ted and Woody share insights on the user-friendly nature of the service, its cost-effectiveness, and how it can help MSPs expand their service offerings while enhancing their clients' security posture. Key takeaways from the episode include the ease of onboarding for clients, the importance of protecting employees' personal data, and the potential for MSPs to generate revenue through this service. The conversation underscores the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the need for MSPs to adapt and provide comprehensive solutions that address the challenges posed by remote work and increased digital threats.Key TakeawaysUncompromized offers identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and internet privacy for individuals.The service is easy to deploy and requires no complex installations.MSPs can invite clients to subscribe, providing immediate monitoring and protection.The product helps scrub personal information from data broker sites.MSPs can earn revenue as employees pay for the service over time.Uncompromized is designed to enhance security for remote workers and their families. === 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

Dori Spade, a veteran with over 17 years in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry, shares her expertise in this engaging discussion. She talks about her journey transitioning to founding Call to Action, a consulting firm aimed at helping MSPs tackle common challenges like role clarity and scaling. Dori emphasizes the significance of Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) for strategic oversight and the necessity of breaking down silos between sales and service teams to boost new business sales. Her insights are invaluable for MSPs aiming for growth.

Uncle Marv welcomes Corey Tapper, a new ASCII member and owner of Techevolution, to the IT Business Podcast. Corey shares his experience attending ASCII events over the years before finally becoming a member, citing the emotional impact of seeing Frank Abagnale speak and the valuable networking opportunities. Techevolution, Corey's company, has been in business for 25 years. It started as a break-fix operation and transitioned to an MSP model about 8-10 years ago. What sets Tech Evolution apart is their ownership of a data center, allowing them to offer full-service technology solutions to their customers. Corey explains that his journey into data center ownership began with a bet to host email and websites on a dial-up connection. Recognizing the potential for recurring revenue, he gradually built out a server room and eventually a full-fledged data center. This unique approach allowed Techevolution to offer services like shared Exchange hosting before it was widely available. The company serves clients primarily in the New England area for MSP services but has hosting customers worldwide. Corey describes their data center setup, emphasizing their $3 million investment in equipment and infrastructure. They also offer co-location services to other MSPs and companies. Corey highlights the benefits of ASCII membership, particularly the peer groups and the supportive community. He values the ability to seek advice from fellow members and the spirit of collaboration, even among competitors. Key Takeaways:ASCII events provide valuable networking and learning opportunitiesTransitioning from break-fix to MSP model can enhance business stabilityOwning a data center can provide unique service offerings and revenue streamsPeer support and community are crucial benefits of ASCII membershipCollaboration among MSPs can lead to mutual growth and success === 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 begins by interviewing Eric Pinto from SocSoter, who discusses their new reporting platform designed to help MSPs prepare for audits and compliance checks. Pinto emphasizes the importance of providing evidence for services offered to customers, especially in the context of 24/7 coverage. Next, the host speaks with Dave Cava, partner at Encore Strategic and co-author of "The Pumpkin Plan for Managed Services." Cava shares insights on helping MSPs understand pricing and customer approach strategies. He mentions positive feedback from his presentation, particularly regarding a case study on a $200,000 MSP. The interview with Nick Wolf from Cork reveals a new partnership with DataStream, a cyber insurance broker. This collaboration allows MSPs to receive instant cyber insurance quotes through the Cork dashboard. Wolf also mentions Cork's participation in upcoming ASCII events and their first presentation at the current event. Joel Zaidspiner of Channel Pro discusses the publication's role in supporting MSPs and their upcoming events. He highlights the Channel Pro Defend event focusing on cybersecurity, scheduled for August 7th and 8th in New Jersey. Zaidspiner also outlines future events in Charlotte, Dallas, and Los Angeles, each with specific themes such as AI and cybersecurity.  === 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 the IT Business Podcast live from ASCII Edge in Boston, featuring guest Brianna Rubino, Director of Events for the ASCII Group. Brianna shares insights on ASCII's 40th anniversary celebration and the ongoing event series. The ASCII EDGE event series includes nine events across North America, with eight in the U.S. and one in Canada. Brianna hints at exciting plans for 2025, including new locations for events. The ASCII Cup, set to take place in Tampa Bay, will be a significant celebration featuring an 80s theme and a "Back to the Future" party. Brianna discusses her role in planning these events and the process of selecting speakers. She emphasizes the mutual benefits for speakers and attendees, as it allows business owners to showcase their knowledge and interact with peers. The interview touches on Brianna's three-year tenure with ASCII and how the events compare to her previous experiences. She describes the ASCII community as a "traveling circus," highlighting the recurring cast of vendors and members across different cities. The conversation concludes with a tease about the upcoming ASCII Cup celebration in Tampa, promising a big and amazing event to mark the 40th anniversary. Key Takeaways: ASCII is celebrating its 40th anniversaryASCII EDGE series includes 9 events across North AmericaASCII Cup in Tampa Bay will feature an 80s themeNew event locations planned for 2025ASCII events provide networking opportunities for members and vendorsBrianna Rubino has been with ASCII for 3 years as Director of EventsLinks:ASCII Edge: https://events.ascii.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