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

In this episode, Marvin Bee is joined by Diana Giles from Skyline IT Management to discuss the benefits and process of transitioning to Microsoft 365 and the Azure cloud. Diana shares her background and how she became a 365 guru, emphasizing the shift from break-fix to managed service provider (MSP) model. They explore the advantages of moving to the cloud, including enhanced security, convenience, data accessibility, and control through policies and compliance measures. They delve into the features of Microsoft 365 Business Premium, such as conditional access, mobile device management, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Teams. The conversation touches on topics like file syncing with Files on Demand, hybrid deployments, and considerations when migrating from on-premises systems. The episode concludes with a brief discussion about starting fresh versus transitioning existing clients and the possibility of migrations from other platforms.Diana's Website: https://skylineitmgmt.com/Microsoft 365 Websiteshttps://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365https://www.office.comhttps://status.office365.comEpisode Highlights:Diana's journey from being an IT professional to becoming a 365 guruBenefits of moving to the cloud, including enhanced security and data accessibilityOverview of Microsoft 365 Business Premium and its featuresExploring policies, compliance, and control options in Microsoft 365File syncing and storage with OneDrive and SharePointConsiderations for hybrid deployments and client migrationsStarting fresh versus transitioning existing clients to the cloud=== Microsoft 365 is a product family of productivity software, collaboration, and cloud-based services owned by Microsoft. It includes online services such as Outlook.com, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and programs formerly marketed under the name Microsoft Office (including applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook on Microsoft Windows, macOS, mobile devices, and on the web) . Enterprise products and services associated with these products such as Exchange Server, SharePoint, and Yammer are also included. The Office 365 brand remains in use for its enterprise, education, healthcare, and governmental plans.=== #ITBusinessPodcast #ChatsWithAGuru #365Guru #CloudComputing #Azure #Microsoft365 #ManagedServiceProviders #CloudMigration #DataSecurity #RemoteWork #BusinessProductivity #FileSyncing #SharePoint #OneDrive #Teams === 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 Bee and Sean Lardo discuss ConnectWise's pitching program for 2023, which will take place in Orlando. They are joined by Andrew Hunt from getKambium, a tool that helps MSPs with sales enablement and customer engagement. Andrew explains that getKambium is a portal-based service that guides MSPs through workshops and QBR processes, allowing them to have meaningful business conversations with their clients. The tool integrates with ConnectWise's CRM and helps MSPs retain customers by focusing on their business needs. It also assists MSPs in becoming virtual CIOs for their clients. The episode concludes with a discussion about the upcoming IT Nation Connect conference in Orlando.Website: https://getkambium.com/Highlights:ConnectWise is hosting a pitching program in Orlando for innovative vendors.The finalists will compete on stage at IT Nation Connect for a chance to win $70,000.Andrew Hunt from getKambium joins the podcast as a repeat offender for PitchIT.getKambium is a portal-based service that helps MSPs with sales enablement.The tool facilitates business conversations and customer engagement.It integrates with ConnectWise's CRM and assists with client retention.MSPs can become virtual CIOs for their clients using getKambium.The upcoming IT Nation Connect conference in Orlando is mentioned.=== PitchIT is an annual accelerator program created by ConnectWise in 2018 to incubate growth in startup integration partners dedicated to the MSP space. The company is offering small companies the chance to take part in a 16-week program where participants receive a thorough business assessment, gain coaching from industry experts, earn placement on the ConnectWise marketplace, engage in co-marketing and more.The finalists are selected to present their solutions on the center stage at IT Nation Connect. The PitchIT 2023 program is officially underway, and 27 companies have been selected to participate in the program.Interested but still have questions? Email PitchIT@ConnectWise.com.Join the PitchIT  waitlist for next year: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/pitchit=== #ITBusinessPodcast #ConnectWise #PitchIT #ITNationConnect #MSP #SalesEnablement #BusinessConversation #CustomerEngagement #VirtualCIO #ITNation === 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 Bee and Sean Lardo discuss ConnectWise's pitch competition and its aim to find innovative vendors in the IT industry. They highlight the diverse range of vendors and solutions involved in the competition, emphasizing the importance of supporting MSPs and end-users. Later, they introduce Shay Cohen, CEO and founder of Kamanja, a compliance-as-a-service company. Shy explains how he started the company to address the need for affordable and automated compliance solutions. Kamanja offers a unified compliance service platform that covers various aspects of compliance, including vulnerability scanning, risk assessment, incident reporting, and supply chain management. They emphasize Kamanja's unique approach of making compliance a journey rather than a task. Shay also discusses the company's internal and external audit automation and asset management capabilities. The episode concludes with Marvin wishing Shy good luck and expressing interest in exploring Kamanja further.Website: https://kamanja.io/Highlights:ConnectWise's pitch competition aims to find innovative vendors in the IT industry.The competition features vendors from various verticals and industries, offering diverse solutions.Shay Cohen from Kamanja joins the podcast as a vendor in the competition.Kamanja provides compliance-as-a-service, focusing on automation and affordability.Their unified compliance service platform covers vulnerability scanning, risk assessment, incident reporting, and more.Kamanja emphasizes making compliance a journey and simplifying the process.The company offers internal and external audit automation and asset management capabilities.Shay discusses the cultural differences in the MSP market and Kamanja's tailored approach.=== PitchIT is an annual accelerator program created by ConnectWise in 2018 to incubate growth in startup integration partners dedicated to the MSP space. The company is offering small companies the chance to take part in a 16-week program where participants receive a thorough business assessment, gain coaching from industry experts, earn placement on the ConnectWise marketplace, engage in co-marketing and more.The finalists are selected to present their solutions on the center stage at IT Nation Connect. The PitchIT 2023 program is officially underway, and 27 companies have been selected to participate in the program.Interested but still have questions? Email PitchIT@ConnectWise.com.Join the PitchIT  waitlist for next year: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/pitchit=== #ITBusinessPodcast #ConnectWise #PitchCompetition #ComplianceAsAService #MSPs #ITNation #Innovation #Automation #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

In this episode of the IT Business Podcast, Marvin Bee and Sean Lardo discuss ConnectWise's PitchIT program and interview Matthew Koenig from NodeWare. The PitchIT competition aims to find innovative vendors that align with the mission of MSPs. Matthew Koenig explains that NodeWare is a continuous vulnerability scanning tool that helps MSPs improve their security stack and streamline vulnerability management. The software runs in the background, providing up-to-date information and allowing MSPs to address critical vulnerabilities immediately. NodeWare offers a multi-tenant dashboard, comprehensive reporting, and the ability to add team members for easier collaboration. Website: https://nodeware.com/Highlights:ConnectWise's PitchIT program seeks innovative vendors for MSPs.NodeWare is a continuous vulnerability scanning tool for MSPs.The software runs in the background, providing real-time vulnerability information.It offers a multi-tenant dashboard and comprehensive reporting.NodeWare allows the addition of team members for better collaboration.The software can send critical vulnerabilities directly to the support email or create tickets.NodeWare aims to have native integration with IT Nation Connect in November.=== PitchIT is an annual accelerator program created by ConnectWise in 2018 to incubate growth in startup integration partners dedicated to the MSP space. The company is offering small companies the chance to take part in a 16-week program where participants receive a thorough business assessment, gain coaching from industry experts, earn placement on the ConnectWise marketplace, engage in co-marketing and more.The finalists are selected to present their solutions on the center stage at IT Nation Connect. The PitchIT 2023 program is officially underway, and 27 companies have been selected to participate in the program.Interested but still have questions? Email PitchIT@ConnectWise.com.Join the PitchIT  waitlist for next year: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/pitchit=== #ITBusinessPodcast #ConnectWise #PitchIT #MSP #NodeWare #VulnerabilityScanning #ITNationConnect === 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 live stream of the IT Business Podcast, Marv introduces his guest, Erin Lawrence, who runs the blog Tech Gadgets Canada. They discuss tech gadget gifts for the summer and highlight some products and deals available on Amazon Prime Day. Erin shares her experience with the Thermacell mosquito repeller, which effectively keeps mosquitoes away by emitting a gentle, scent-based repellent. They also talk about the Eero Pro mesh Wi-Fi system, which provides a user-friendly solution for improving Wi-Fi coverage in homes. The discussion touches on the importance of being an Amazon affiliate and the benefits of Amazon Prime membership. The episode concludes with a shout-out to the viewers and the acknowledgment of recent purchases made through Marv's affiliate link.=== Uncle Marv's Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3x0l1keHow to shop for Amazon Prime Day (July 11 & 12): https://tinyurl.com/5kdxynex=== Amazon branded items are already on sale ahead of Prime Day:  Fire HD 10 Tablet: https://amzn.to/3XDsmCJEcho Frames: https://amzn.to/3O2N3VgRing Doorbells: https://amzn.to/3NDBt1HAmazon eero mesh WiFi: https://amzn.to/3JPzZjD=== Robot vacuums: Many go on sale for Prime Day and it’s a great time to get one if you’ve been waiting. ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 Ombi Robot Vacuum: https://amzn.to/3O2Tg3xRoborocks S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum: https://amzn.to/44ziPPbBissell SpinWave R5 Robotic Mop & Vacuum: https://amzn.to/3pAJ1u5Yeedi Mop Station Pro: https://amzn.to/3XE99kh=== Watch for smart speakers to also be on sale: Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Wireless Speaker: https://amzn.to/3XJfDP1=== Smart BBQ: I reviewed a smart BBQ: It’s pricey but it can help you grill better.Weber Genesis E-335 Gas Grill, Natural Gas, Black: https://amzn.to/3pC3pLg=== Mosquito repeller gadgets: do they really work? (This one did!)I reviewed Thermacell Radius: https://amzn.to/3O3cpCp=== Creating a chic outdoor space with tech: GE Lighting CYNC Smart LED Light Strip: https://amzn.to/3JOTeKlGovee Outdoor String Lights H7021: https://amzn.to/46FbUG3=== #podcast #itbusinesspodcast #unclemarv #AmazonDay #techgadgetscanada === 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, Uncle Marv updates everyone on recent events and upcoming live streams. Thanks to Eric Anthony, from All Things MSP, for the crossover podcast last week. Why should you fire a client? The client requires more time than they are worth.The client continuously shoots down your recommendations.The client is consistently slow to pay or there are constant payment issues.The client constantly nitpicks at or disputes your invoices.The client has unreasonable expectations.The client lacks transparency in communication.The client is abusive.Remember, it's important to prioritize your mental, financial, and professional well-being when deciding whether to fire a client. When it comes to firing a client, it's important to do so in a professional and respectful manner. Here are some tips for how to do it:    Check your contract or engagement letter to see what terms you have in place to fire a client.    Maintain your integrity and stay calm, rational, and polite.    Give reasons for terminating the relationship, but keep emotion and name-calling out of the conversation.    Never fire a client when you're angry. Take a step back to cool down before making the final call.    Talk to your team members to get a second opinion.=== #podcast #itbusinesspodcast #unclemarv #firingclients #clientrelationships #badclients === 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 Bee interviews Ed Manna from Bizzity about their podcasting setups and the equipment they use. Ed shares that for their video podcast, they use the A10 Mini Pro ISO and a Sony A6000 camera, along with other accessories like tripods, wireless mics, and a light. They discuss the benefits of using iPhones and GarageBand for podcasting, and Ed mentions his plans to create content on the business side of being a tech company and feature requests. They also talk about the usefulness of tools like the Stream Deck and DaVinci editing software. Ed shares information about Bizzity and invites listeners to connect with him for any questions or collaborations.Website: https://www.bizzity.com/Time Stamped Highlights:- 01:10: Introduction and discussion about podcasting setups- 04:05: Ed shares his video podcasting equipment, including the A10 Mini Pro ISO and Sony A6000 camera- 08:20: Marvin talks about his current setup and his interest in wireless mics- 10:30: Ed discusses the accessibility of equipment and the use of GarageBand and iPhones for podcasting- 15:50: Plans for creating content on the business side and feature requests- 19:00: Discussion on man-on-the-street type of videos and the portability of equipment- 21:50: Ed talks about the benefits of the Stream Deck for preprogramming actions- 25:05: The simultaneous streaming and recording capabilities of the A10 Mini Pro ISO- 28:15: Marvin mentions the multi-track recording feature of the Rodecaster and discusses editing options like DaVinci and Camtasia- 33:25: Ed shares that Bizzity's product is live and invites listeners to check it out- 35:30: Wrapping up the interview and contact information for Ed and Bizzity=== The ASCII Edge conference was held in Tampa, Florida on June 21-22, 2023. The conference is designed for MSPs (Managed Service Providers) to come together, share best practices, and learn from one another's experiences. The event was held at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park. There were private peer meetings of ASCII members, networking opportunities, and time to meet with sponsors. The conference also had a focus on cybersecurity, with a private meeting about the Conceal secure browser extension.#asciiedge #podcast #itbusinesspodcast === 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 Bee interviews Joel Zaidspiner, the Vice President of Channel Pro Network. Joel shares insights about his extensive travel schedule, attending 40 weeks of events each year, and the importance of Channel Pro in delivering valuable content to MSPs. They discuss the evolving relationship between vendors and MSPs, highlighting the trend of partnership and the need for collaboration in the industry. Joel also mentions the magazine's focus on MSP success stories and upcoming events, including the Readers' Choice awards.Website: https://www.channelpronetwork.com/Timestamped Highlights:- [03:30] Joel talks about his extensive travel schedule and attending various industry events.- [05:55] The importance of Channel Pro as a content platform for MSPs.- [07:45] Joel explains his role in conducting interviews with vendors and sharing best practices.- [10:35] The evolving partnership between vendors and MSPs, with a focus on sharing success and growing together.- [14:18] Marvin asks about Channel Pro's role in fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.- [17:20] Joel discusses the magazine's coverage of MSP success stories and the qualification process for featuring MSPs.- [19:42] The upcoming Readers' Choice awards and the importance of reader participation.- [21:20] Joel reflects on memorable events and the dynamic changes happening in the channel industry.=== The ASCII Edge conference was held in Tampa, Florida on June 21-22, 2023. The conference is designed for MSPs (Managed Service Providers) to come together, share best practices, and learn from one another's experiences. The event was held at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park. There were private peer meetings of ASCII members, networking opportunities, and time to meet with sponsors. The conference also had a focus on cybersecurity, with a private meeting about the Conceal secure browser extension.#asciiedge #podcast #itbusinesspodcast === 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 Bee interviews Michelle Accardi from Liongard and Scott Chasin, the Chief Technology Officer of PAX8, during the PAX8 Beyond 2023 conference.Marvin and Michell discuss the event, the impressive number of booth scans, and the quality conversations they had. They also talk about the swag at the event and Liongard's role as a leader in configuration change detection and response. Michelle explains how their product helps MSPs and enterprises manage and mitigate risks by detecting and responding to changes in their IT environments. Marvin expresses interest in exploring Liongard's booth and getting more information about their offerings.Website: https://www.liongard.com/Scott discusses his passion for technology and building products and teams. He shares his journey in cybersecurity and internet collaboration, leading up to his role at PAX8. They delve into the vision behind PAX8's marketplace and the complexity of creating a three-sided ecosystem for managed service providers, cloud vendors, and small businesses. Scott highlights the challenges and opportunities for each segment and emphasizes PAX8's goal of simplifying the complexity and delivering value to all constituents.Website: https://www.pax8.com=== The inaugural Pax8Beyond 2023 was held on June 11-13, 2023, at the Gaylord Rockies Hotel in Denver, Colorado and was attended by over 1000 IT service providers, vendors, and media worldwide.  The event content was curated specifically for partners, aimed at helping them grow their businesses, increase deep cybersecurity expertise, future-proof innovations, and dynamic efficiencies. === 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 Bee and Sean Lardo discuss the ConnectWise Pitch It program for 2023, which is a Shark Tank-style competition for innovative startup vendors. The finalists will compete for a grand prize of $70,000 at IT Nation Connect. They introduce Chris Dix, the founder and CEO of ChatStyle.ai, one of the contestants in the competition. ChatStyle.ai is an AI assistant that integrates messaging with ConnectWise and other tools, providing an omnichannel approach for businesses. It allows technicians to handle customer messages from various platforms like Teams, Slack, SMS, and more, while ensuring all information is integrated into the PSA system. The AI component helps technicians by providing helpful hints and guiding customers through relevant questions. The ultimate goal is to unify customer communication channels and streamline the ticketing process for MSPs.Website: https://chatstyle.ai/Time Stamped Highlights:01:00: Introduction to the ConnectWise Pitch It program for 2023.02:45: Overview of the competition structure and prize distribution04:22: Introduction of Chris Dix, founder and CEO of ChatStyle.ai06:05: Discussion on the integration of messaging channels with ConnectWise and other tools08:20: The benefits of using ChatStyle.ai for MSPs, including unified platform and ticket creation.10:12: How AI comes into play, assisting technicians with relevant information and guiding ticket processes12:26: ChatStyle.ai's journey, learnings from the channel, and maturing the tools.14:07: The importance of connecting with MSPs and reaching a wider audience.16:00: Integration with various MSP tools and accommodating different workflows.18:05: Closing remarks and well wishes for the competition.=== PitchIT is an annual accelerator program created by ConnectWise in 2018 to incubate growth in startup integration partners dedicated to the MSP space. The company is offering small companies the chance to take part in a 16-week program where participants receive a thorough business assessment, gain coaching from industry experts, earn placement on the ConnectWise marketplace, engage in co-marketing and more.The finalists are selected to present their solutions on the center stage at IT Nation Connect. The PitchIT 2023 program is officially underway, and 27 companies have been selected to participate in the program.Interested but still have questions? Email PitchIT@ConnectWise.com.Join the PitchIT  waitlist for next year: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/pitchit === 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