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

In this episode recorded at the ASCII Cup in Philadelphia, Uncle Marv welcomes Dawn Sizer, co-founder and CEO of 3rd Element Consulting, to share her MSP journey rooted in a service-first and security-first philosophy. Dawn describes the evolution of her company from a physical security subsidiary to a leading MSP, emphasizing client flexibility without hidden costs and tackling tough projects like ISP moves with patience and expertise. She highlights exciting developments in AI, including agentic AI tools integrated into their CRM system, Go High Level, which promise to improve workflow and client engagement.Dawn also reflects on the tremendous value of belonging to the ASCII MSP community, lauding its supportive network and the women’s group initiative for fostering open, solution-oriented discussions. Fond memories of Alan Weinberger, ASCII’s founder, underscore the tight-knit, caring atmosphere of the MSP world. Her recognition with the 2025 Channel Pro MSP Leadership Award serves as a testament to genuine service and leadership.Companies, Products & Books: 3rd Element Consulting: https://3rdelementconsulting.com/ASCII Group: https://asciigroup.orgGo High Level (CRM): https://www.gohighlevel.comChannel Pro MSP Leadership Award: https://www.channelpronetwork.com/2025/08/12/top-msps-for-2025-channelpro-network/HubSpot: https://www.hubspot.comTech Tribe: https://techtribe.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

Uncle Marv welcomes ASCII CEO Jerry Koutavis for a candid conversation on why vendor-neutral collaboration is the key to thriving in a rapidly evolving MSP landscape. Listeners will learn about ASCII’s 40+ years of industry leadership, how to approach client discussions around AI, and why moving “from VAR to MSP” is only the beginning. The episode includes a preview of ASCII’s AI Collective and provides insights into building trust and optimizing service delivery amidst constant change. Why Listen:Learn how to kickstart impactful client conversations about AIDiscover ASCII’s vendor-neutral, collaborative resources for MSPsHear about upcoming AI Collective webinars and member code sharingGet insights on navigating rapid tech change with confidenceConnect with a CEO who leads 1,500+ MSPs nationwideCompanies, Products and Books Mentioned: ASCII Group: https://ascii.com/ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.com/Kaseya: https://www.kaseya.com/Datto: https://www.datto.com/Arnie Bellini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arniebellini/ASCII EDGE event: https://www.asciievents.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

Uncle Marv sits with Josh Liberman live at the ASCII Cup in Philadelphia. Josh reflects on three decades of running Net Sciences and the pivotal decision to go “all in” on managed services. Stories span global travels, challenging transitions, and heartwarming ASCII memories—including an emotional tribute to Alan Weinberger. Don't miss actionable business advice, community-building strategies, and Josh’s signature humor.Why Listen:Learn how and why to transition to a flat-rate MSP modelDiscover the "pumpkin plan" and customer selection strategyUnderstand the power of ASCII as a professional familyGet real-world advice for handling client churn with confidenceHear behind-the-scenes stories of industry travel and networkingExperience touching moments honoring Alan WeinbergerExplore the broader impact of community and peer groupsGain actionable tips for MSP resilience and adaptabilityUnderstand business growth through trusting relationshipsLaugh and learn from candid stories and road trip anecdotesCompanies, Products & Books Mentioned: Net Sciences: https://netsciences.comASCII Group: https://www.ascii.comChannelPro Events: https://www.channelpronetwork.com/eventsDattoCon Europe: https://www.dattocon.comSonicWall: https://www.sonicwall.comIngram Micro: https://www.ingrammicro.comMicrosoft: https://www.microsoft.comCVX Expo: https://www.cvxexpo.comLiberty Bell: https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stories-libertybell.htmChad Kempt (ASCII Member of the Year): https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadkempt/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 Joe Balsarotti, president of Software To Go and longtime ASCII board member. Joe shares a treasure trove of business wisdom from four-plus decades in IT, including how strategic vendor relationships and white-glove service drive MSP success today. Together, they honor the legacy of ASCII founder Alan Weinberger, discuss how referral networks and peer forums fuel growth, and offer advice for newcomers and veterans alike. Discover actionable takeaways, memorable stories, and key resources live from Philadelphia’s biggest IT community event!Why Listen:How MSPs survive 45+ years of tech changePractical tips on Windows migrationsUnique benefits of ASCII membershipHeartwarming tribute to Alan WeinbergerReal client success stories post-COVIDHigh-value peer referrals and forumsRecruitment and growth strategies for IT businessesCompany, Products and Books Mentioned:Software To Go: https://www.software-to-go.com/main.phpASCII: https://www.ascii.com/Ingram: https://www.ingrammicro.com/DH (Distributor): https://www.dhdistributing.com/Sheraton Philadelphia: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/phldi-sheraton-philadelphia-downtown/overview/Alan Weinberger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanweinberger/ (Founder, ASCII)Comdex (event): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COMDEXSPONSORS: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 streams live from the ASCII Edge event in Philadelphia, capturing the energy of the final channel gathering of the year. He’s joined by Steve Copeland from Rythmz, who shares insights on supplying Internet for live events and reflects on his journey from MSP to vendor. The episode pays heartfelt tribute to Alan Weinberger, founder of the ASCII Group, illustrating how his legacy of inclusivity and “community over competition” shaped today’s IT landscape. Guests trade stories of big city dinners, freezing walks, and the memorable embrace that defined ASCII’s culture.Listeners discover how the ASCII Cup serves as a celebration for both vendors and MSPs, bringing together diverse personalities for stories of growth, persistence, and fun. The conversation travels from garage MSP beginnings to vendor successes, from philosophical late-night talks to the nuts and bolts of event logistics. Emotional tributes highlight Alan’s enduring influence and the people who have carried his vision forward—even in his absence. Mentioned Entities:ASCII Group: https://www.ascii.comRythmz: https://www.rythmz.comSonicWall: https://www.sonicwall.comPax8: https://www.pax8.comSolutions Granted: https://www.solutionsgranted.comScaleCon: https://scalecon25.com/MSP Camp: https://www.mspcamp.comRedding Market: https://readingterminalmarket.orgAmazon: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBest Buy: https://www.bestbuy.comMicro Center: https://www.microcenter.com 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

I chat with Ryan Redmond, founder of Optrua and a long-time advocate for smarter sales, better systems, and industry progress. Ryan walks us through his background in CRM and ERP, shares why MSPs struggle with sales automation, and explains the challenges facing IT professionals when adopting Microsoft Dynamics and integrating it with existing business tools. We also dig into why process matters more than technology, how co-pilot and AI are changing the game, and what NSITSP is doing to move industry standards forward.Topics include Optrua’s consulting approach, practical tips for CRM adoption, sales process optimization, resources for MSP growth, and the importance of active participation in IT advocacy. You’ll find fresh perspectives to help you run your business smarter.​List of Companies, Products, and Books: Optrua: https://optrua.comNSITSP: https://nsitsp.orgMicrosoft Dynamics: https://dynamics.microsoft.comMicrosoft 365: https://microsoft.com/microsoft-365Microsoft CRM (now Dynamics): https://dynamics.microsoft.com/crm/IAMCP: https://iamcp.orgSalesforce.com: https://www.salesforce.comOracle: https://www.oracle.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

I share the latest MSP field story—helping a client whose remote staffer in Argentina couldn’t connect via VPN. What starts as a routine setup turns into a wild ride through blocked IPs, throttled Starlink connections, and Argentina’s secret war on VPNs. Hear how Ubiquiti’s VPN options, Microsoft 365 authentication quirks, and a dash of Duo MFA finally kept the user online.We’ll also chat about the latest MSP headlines, including ConnectWise patches, DefensX’s AI-enhanced secure browser, and cybersecurity reminders for October. Of course, there’s gear talk—the Red Tiger dash cam and its challenger, the VIOFO A229—and updates on my upcoming appearances at ASCII Edge and IT Nation Connect. IT pros, grab your notebook—this one’s equal parts troubleshooting and triumph.News:DefensX Secure Browser now offers native support for OpenAI Atlas: https://tinyurl.com/bdtrmtasCritical ConnectWise Flaws Expose MSPs to Fake Update Attacks: https://tinyurl.com/ys4ncpxkCompanies, Products, Books Mentioned:ConnectWise Automate: https://www.connectwise.com/software/automateDefensX: https://www.defensx.comUbiquiti: https://www.ui.comAT&T Business Fiber: https://www.att.com/businessNetBird: https://netbird.ioDuo: https://duo.comRed Tiger Dash Cam: https://redtigerdashcam.comVIOFO A229 Dash Cam: https://www.viofo.comASCII Edge Conference: https://www.asciievents.comIT Nation Connect: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/connectAmazon: REDTIGER Dash Cam Front and Rear: https://amzn.to/3JjhgzSVIOFO A229 Plus Front and Rear Dash Cam: https://amzn.to/3WlGxwpSPONSORS: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 back Kyle Kenyon, “The Pro Tech Guy,” for a lively, no-fluff conversation about cybersecurity, running an MSP, and working smarter — not harder. Kyle opens up about his origins, growing his space, and moving away from “man in the van” operations toward a more structured MSP approach.They dive into key challenges like client education, tool overload, and balancing personal passion projects with business demands. From SonicWall’s mess to the importance of MFA and password management, this episode delivers tactical IT talk and fun anecdotes alike. Kyle’s humor and real-life stories will resonate with every tech who’s ever had to rebuild a client relationship — or a website — from scratch.Mentioned Companies, Products & BooksSonicWall: https://www.sonicwall.comDiscord: https://discord.comRaspberry Pi: https://www.raspberrypi.comSquarespace: https://www.squarespace.comWordPress: https://wordpress.orgTechCon Unplugged (by MSP Unplugged / Paco LeBron): https://mspunplugged.comASCII Group: https://www.ascii.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

Uncle Marv hosts a special 10-year reunion with Chad Kempt of Fast Computers to revisit their classic “Man in the Van vs. MSP” debate and explore how the world of solo techs and small MSPs has evolved. They dig into shifting vendor landscapes, realistic service models, and why being lean, documented, and relationship-driven still wins in today’s managed services space.This episode offers hard-won insights into scaling without losing personal touch, crafting an exit-ready business, balancing SLAs, and surviving the vendor squeeze. Whether you’re a solo tech hustling daily or running a 20-person MSP, this candid, real-world conversation reminds everyone that good service is good service—no matter the size.Companies, Products, and ReferencesInstant Housecall: https://www.instanthousecall.comHuntress: https://www.huntress.comApple: https://www.apple.comRogers: https://www.rogers.comIngram Micro: https://www.ingrammicro.comMicrosoft Azure: https://azure.microsoft.comZoom: https://zoom.usIT Glue: https://www.itglue.comKaseya: https://www.kaseya.comASCII Group: https://www.ascii.comPAX8: https://www.pax8.comDatto (Datto): https://www.datto.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

Ever wonder how someone leaps from an art history degree to leading automation in the MSP world? In this episode, Tara Rummer, Channel Captain at Immy Bot and Advisor with Immense Networks, sits down to unpack her real journey—facing down imposter syndrome, championing neurodiversity, and finding her “aggressively friendly” groove. From early days building operational processes for an MSP to becoming the face of rapid automation, Tara shares what makes her tick and why authentic conversations matter now more than ever.In our chat, we dive into what sets Immy Bot apart from tools like Chocolatey and Ninite, the challenge (and the payoff) of transparent leadership, and why workplace culture wins over quick fixes every time. Plus, Tara reflects on the importance of supporting neurodiverse individuals in IT and how her LinkedIn mantra—“Hi, friends, foes, wizards, warlocks and jelly cat enthusiasts!”—is all about making everyone feel welcome. Definitely an episode packed with heart, strategy, and stories you don’t hear every day. Companies, Products, Books Mentioned (with URLs)ImmyBot: https://www.immy.bot/Immense Networks: https://immense.netbVoIP: https://www.bvoip.comAction1: https://www.action1.comChocolatey: https://chocolatey.orgNinite: https://ninite.comSentinelOne: https://www.sentinelone.comPax8: https://www.pax8.com  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