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

The conference proved to be a grand event, celebrating the achievements of our tech community. The winners of the Best Partner Program, Best Presentation, and Best Swag awards are announced with much fanfare. The Best Partner Program award went to Tech Tribe, while Michael Creen of Solutions Granted clinched the Best Presentation award. Threat Locker, with their consistently excellent swag, bagged the Best Swag award. Our very own Jason Miller defended his title as Community Champ. Tech Tribe took home the award for the Best Partner Program while Michael Creen won the Best Presentation award. Threat Locker emerged as the audience's favorite, bagging the Best Swag award. However, the star of the event was Jason Miller, who successfully defended his title as the Community Champ.We also celebrate Jason Miller, who defended his title as Community Champ with conviction. News: Syncro announces a deeper partnership with Splashtop. This alliance is a significant development for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), offering increased functionality at a more palatable price point. The enhanced features include instant remote control, seamless multi-monitor support, automatic session logging, and improved efficiency with technician collaboration. === Links from the showFlorida Man Drives Excavator Through Walmart: https://tinyurl.com/3xwm8azv=== Upcoming Eventshttps://www.dattocon.com/: October 2-4, 2023, at the Intercontinental in Miami Florida. DattoCon is an annual educational and networking event for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. The conference provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the MSP industry, with breakout sessions covering topics ranging from cybersecurity to personnel management. === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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

Michael joins me to chat about the upcoming Techcon Unplugged conference. He shares his thoughts on preparing for a conference as a vendor and his perspective on attending conferences as a vendor, saying he looks for events where MSPs attend and focuses on smaller MSPs rather than very large ones.Michael talks about preparing for presentations at different events. They bring up past ASCII Cup competitions, with Michael going for a three-peat this year. Gabriel, Michael's son, joins briefly to promote Solutions Granted and say he's looking forward to hockey tryouts.As a side note, we have a quick chat about minimizing interruptions for productivity. === Links from the showWebsite: https://solutionsgranted.com/Florida Man Arrested After Trying to Cross the Atlantic in a Giant Hamster Wheel: https://tinyurl.com/4fjw4sda=== Upcoming Eventshttps://techconunplugged.com/: September 7-10, 2023, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Woodbridge in New Jersey. TechCon Unplugged is a conference for IT business owners featuring expert presentations, hands-on workshops, peer panels, and breakout sessions to help grow your business.https://www.dattocon.com/: October 2-4, 2023, at the Intercontinental in Miami Florida. DattoCon is an annual educational and networking event for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. The conference provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the MSP industry, with breakout sessions covering topics ranging from cybersecurity to personnel management. === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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

Evo Security is a cybersecurity company that focuses on Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Nick Wolf as we unpack the importance of privileged access management, multi-factor authentication, single sign-on, and passwordless logins for small to medium-sized businesses. Hear about how Evo Security provides all these features in a single platform for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to white label and resell to their end user customers.Evo Secure Login: Evo Secure Login is a feature that allows users to log in securely to Evo Security's platform. It provides a single, scalable, and secure place to configure and manage identity and access. Users can log in to the platform via a web browser login on evosecurity.com or through the Evo Secure Login app on their mobile devices. Evo Secure Login helps eliminate the sharing of admin credentials and provides a centralized solution for managing user access.Evo Elevated Access: Evo Elevated Access is a capability that enables admins and technicians to elevate their privileges within Evo's platform. With Evo Elevated Access, technicians can log in as themselves and have the ability to perform privileged actions, such as provisioning and auditing, within the platform. This feature helps reduce the risks associated with shared admin credentials and provides granular privileged access control. === Links from the showWebsite: https://www.evosecurity.com/Bitwarden Secrets Manager Safeguards Sensitive Credentials: https://tinyurl.com/3fnndwz2=== Upcoming Eventshttps://techconunplugged.com/: September 7-10, 2023, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Woodbridge in New Jersey. TechCon Unplugged is a conference for IT business owners featuring expert presentations, hands-on workshops, peer panels, and breakout sessions to help grow your business.https://www.dattocon.com/: October 2-4, 2023, at the Intercontinental in Miami Florida. DattoCon is an annual educational and networking event for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. The conference provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the MSP industry, with breakout sessions covering topics ranging from cybersecurity to personnel management. === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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

Join us as we chat with Craig, who discusses his crucial role as the bridge between external stakeholders and the internal teams designing the new Pax 8. We explore the significance of listening systems, advisory councils, and focus groups in understanding and delivering what the ecosystem needs. Craig shares how his role focuses on creating a three-sided marketplace that serves partners, customers, and vendors, offering unique experiences for each stakeholder. Pax8 is a company that offers a cloud marketplace for businesses to buy, sell, and manage cloud solutions, The Pax8 Marketplace is a platform that allows businesses to quote, order, bill, and provision cloud products in one place, all with one monthly bill. === Links from the showTo learn more about Pax8: https://www.pax8.com/en-us/Register for Pax8Beyond 2024: https://www.pax8beyond.com/=== Upcoming Eventshttps://techconunplugged.com/: September 7-10, 2023, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Woodbridge in New Jersey. TechCon Unplugged is a conference for IT business owners featuring expert presentations, hands-on workshops, peer panels, and breakout sessions to help grow your business.https://www.dattocon.com/: October 2-4, 2023, at the Intercontinental in Miami Florida. DattoCon is an annual educational and networking event for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. The conference provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the MSP industry, with breakout sessions covering topics ranging from cybersecurity to personnel management. === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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

 We understand how vital lead generation is for MSPs and the significance of influential leadership coupled with effective messaging. We also highlight the transition from a break-fix model to a proactive approach and the critical role of a solid contract in MSP protection. We tackle the common marketing challenges MSPs face and discuss why hitting a growth plateau might signal a need for a change in leadership.The final segment of our chat takes us through the fascinating world of paywalls, marketing, and conversions. We discuss the necessity of tracking visitors to websites, and the techniques for effectively converting these visitors. === Time Stamps(0:05:30) - Uncle Marv rant about "junior" and eBay return(0:11:53) - Introduction to MSP Corne(0:14:45) - Discussion on the importance of effective leadership and messaging in lead generation for MSPs.(0:17:05) - Insight on the transition from a reactive to a proactive model in IT and the challenges that come with it.(0:21:15) - The importance of a solid contract for MSP protection; Strategies on how IT firms can increase their revenue.(0:32:24) - Deep dive into the world of paywalls, marketing, and conversions.(0:35:45) - Discussion on the importance of tracking visitors to websites and techniques for effectively converting these visitors.(0:52:40) Florida Man and a fox stealing breakfast burritos=== Links from the showQuestion of the Month: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/p/monthly-q/What is your most unique or memorable gift that you've given to a client to say thank you?MSP Corner Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mspcornerMSP Corner LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/msp-corner/Florida Man Proposes to Girlfriend with a hot dog: https://tinyurl.com/4ach78cnFlorida Man Robs Wendy's with Alligator: https://tinyurl.com/3jnn5btf=== Get your NetAlly CyberScope from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3qwDdSR=== Upcoming Evntshttps://techconunplugged.com/: September 7-10, 2023, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Woodbridge in New Jersey. TechCon Unplugged is a conference for IT business owners featuring expert presentations, hands-on workshops, peer panels, and breakout sessions to help grow your business.https://www.dattocon.com/: October 2-4, 2023, at the Intercontinental in Miami Florida. DattoCon is an annual educational and networking event for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. The conference provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the MSP industry, with breakout sessions covering topics ranging from cybersecurity to personnel management. === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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, we take a closer look at the NetAlly CyberScope, the world's first handheld cybersecurity analyzer. We'll explore the features and capabilities of this innovative tool, including a demo of the product in action. We'll also discuss how CyberScope can be used for Wi-Fi site assessments and how it can be paired with Nmap for effective network security assessments. We’ll also keep you updated on key industry events like the upcoming TechCon Unplugged conference and the new Team Plan launched by Syncro for MSPs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen on staying informed about the latest in IT and keen to learn from real-life experiences. Here are some features of the NetAlly CyberScope: Comprehensive Cyber Security Assessment: The CyberScope provides a thorough assessment of cyber security risks, allowing users to identify vulnerabilities and potential threats.Network Vulnerability Scanning: The CyberScope includes a network vulnerability scanner that helps identify security weaknesses in the network infrastructure.Portable and Powerful: The CyberScope is designed to be a portable tool, allowing users to perform security assessments on-site. It combines multiple functionalities into a single device.Wi-Fi AP and Client Detection: The CyberScope can detect all Wi-Fi access points (APs) and clients across multiple channels, providing insights into the RF reach inside and outside a facility.Endpoint and Network Discovery: The CyberScope supports endpoint and network discovery, allowing users to identify devices connected to the network and gather information about them.Wireless Security Scans: The CyberScope can perform wireless security scans to identify potential vulnerabilities in wireless networks.Ruggedized Design: The CyberScope is built with a ruggedized design, making it suitable for use in various environments and conditions.These features make the NetAlly CyberScope a powerful tool for assessing and analyzing cyber security risks at the site access layer.=== Links from the showQuestion of the Month: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/p/monthly-q/What is your most unique or memorable gift that you've given to a client to say thank you?NetAlly CyberSCope Product Page: https://cyberscope.netally.com/Get your NetAlly CyberScope from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3qwDdSRNMap - Network Mapping Tool to scan for open ports and vulnerabilities: https://nmap.org/Florida Man Throws Rocks Inside McDonald's: https://tinyurl.com/bddy7fue=== Upcoming Evntshttps://techconunplugged.com/: September 7-10, 2023, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Woodbridge in New Jersey. TechCon Unplugged is a conference for IT business owners featuring expert presentations, hands-on workshops, peer panels, and breakout sessions to help grow your business.https://www.dattocon.com/: October 2-4, 2023, at the Intercontinental in Miami Florida. DattoCon is an annual educational and networking event for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. The conference provides valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the MSP industry, with breakout sessions covering topics ranging from cybersecurity to personnel management. === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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

Listen in as we converse with Lori Saitz, the CEO of Zen Rabbit, about the significance of appreciating clients and how it can positively impact our business relationships. We explore the law of reciprocity, and how sending a simple thank you to your clients can create an environment of loyalty and trust. Lori takes us through her journey of creating and scaling Zen Rabbit, a business centered around thanking clients through unique gifts like the Gratitude Cookie.Join us as we brainstorm creative and thoughtful ways to thank our clients, building stronger relationships beyond the traditional coffee mugs and holiday gifts. Lori shares her insights on how offering personal experiences or meaningful gifts at any time of the year can leave a lasting impression. From referencing BrownieLocks.com for a list of holidays and celebrations throughout the year, to our own experiences of sending heart-shaped toffee to clients in February, this conversation is packed with inventive ideas.As the discussion progresses, we uncover the concept of appreciation marketing and how it differs from promotional items. Lori breaks down why gift cards can sometimes be limiting and why it's essential to give something that the recipient will actually use. This episode also features news about VPN vulnerabilities, the promotion of Craig Donovan at Pax 8, and our regular Florida Man story segment. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation filled with valuable tips and advice.=== Links from the showLori's Website, Zen Rabbit: https://zenrabbit.com/Predictably Irrational (by Dan Ariely): https://amzn.to/3DR1TbIDaily, Weekly, and Monthly Observances: https://www.brownielocks.com/News: Top VPN services can be tricked: https://tinyurl.com/yxdtun44News: Pax8 Names Craig Donovan Chief Experience Officer: https://tinyurl.com/yrnyuwxxFlorida Man Steals Keys from Stroller at EPCOT: https://tinyurl.com/3w2bw6d5Man Breaks into Florida Church, Baptizes himself, then Steals: https://tinyurl.com/39c6hfk4=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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

Watch the video recording here: https://youtu.be/msg6U6GXzUYNaviStack is a game-changer for IT service providers and vendors. This robust platform streamlines your access to content, white-label materials, technical documentation, and sales collateral from all your vendors, all in one place. Plus, it offers a seamless way to communicate with your vendor ecosystem directly within the portal. NaviStack also facilitates communication with vendors directly within the portal, making it easier for IT service providers to grow their businesses.Peel back the layers of vendor-partner communication as we delve into the challenges and solutions NaviStack brings to the table for scaling channel programs. Feel the pulse of a new era as we discuss how transparency on this platform has led to fascinating scenarios concerning product reviews and vendor contact. Discover how NaviStack elevates vendor-MSP communication to an unprecedented level, empowering MSPs to lean more on their vendors and grow their businesses effectively.=== Channel Program website: https://channelprogram.com/NaviStack: https://channelprogram.com/navistackIndustry Event Calendar: https://channelprogram.com/industrycalendar=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv === 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 discusses his choice between Threat Locker and CyberFox Elevate for privileged access management and auto elevation in his IT business. He provides insights into his decision-making process and explains why he ultimately chose Threat Locker due to its zero-trust approach, application whitelisting, and ring fencing capabilities.Key Takeaways:Uncle Marv shares his experience with renting a vehicle from SIXT and suggests sticking with reliable service providers even if the price is slightly higher.Marvin talks about his decision to choose Threat Locker over CyberFox Elevate for privileged access management due to Threat Locker's zero-trust approach and additional security features.Threat Locker's approval system for running applications provides increased control and security.Marvin plans to implement Threat Locker on his law firm clients' endpoints and may consider using AutoElevate for other clients in the future.The show also mentions the launch of the NaviStack tool by the channel program, which allows MSPs to visualize their vendor stack and streamline operations.===Hissing alligator protects nest in Florida backyard: https://tinyurl.com/4fwmvyy6=== === Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv=== #ITBusinessPodcast #ITBusiness #PrivilegedAccessManagement #AutoElevation #ThreatLocker #CyberFoxElevate #Florida #MSP #ManagedServiceProviders #Cybersecurity #ZeroTrust #ApplicationWhitelisting #RingFencing #Navistack #VendorStack #VisualizeStack #ChannelProgram #ITSecurity #ITSupport === 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 of the IT Business Podcast, Marvin talks about the importance of customer service in running a successful IT business. He emphasizes the significance of active listening to understand customer needs and frustrations. Marvin shares his experiences and interactions with clients over the years, emphasizing the value of giving full attention, avoiding interruptions, and showing empathy to build strong client relationships.Key Takeaways:Prioritize active listening: Focus completely on the customer, avoid distractions, and let them speak without interruptions.Clarify and paraphrase: Repeat back to the customer what you heard to ensure understanding.Show empathy: Understand and acknowledge their frustrations and concerns with technology.Be proactive: Keep customers informed throughout the process, addressing their needs promptly.Avoid judgment: Approach customers with an open mind and without judgment.=== Links from the showFlorida Man arrested after spraying women with garden hose: https://tinyurl.com/yms5yu77Florida Man arrested after dunking woman's head in vat of tar: https://tinyurl.com/47t3vcc7=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin Bee=== Show SponsorsPresenting Sponsor: NetAlly: https://www.netally.com/Live Show Partner: Computers Done Right: https://computersdoneright.com/Live Show Partner: Instant Houescall: https://instanthousecall.com/=== Support the ShowUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv=== #ITBusinessPodcast #TechTalk #CustomerService #TechToTech #BusinessTips #Entrepreneurship #TechNews #ITConsulting #SmallBusiness === 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