In this episode of "All Things MSP," co-host Justin Esgar and podcast producer Eric Anthony delve into the concept of "eating your own dog food" in the world of managed service providers (MSPs). They discuss the importance of using the very products and services you sell to your clients, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into how this practice can improve efficiency, enhance support, and build trust with customers.

Justin and Eric emphasize that MSPs should familiarize themselves with the tools and solutions they offer to clients. Justin points out that this practice is crucial for offering effective support, as being well-versed in the software and services allows MSPs to troubleshoot issues more effectively and understand clients' needs better.

They also touch upon standardization in an MSP's toolset, advocating for consistent use of products across the board. Standardization not only makes management easier but also bolsters security since administrators can efficiently deploy updates and maintain configurations.

The hosts address the dilemma of using Microsoft and Google products within the MSP industry, with the conversation highlighting the challenges and advantages of managing and using both ecosystems. They explore the need for MSPs to adapt and be proficient in both Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.

The episode wraps up with the origins of the phrase "eating your own dog food," tracing it back to a Microsoft email from 1988. Justin finds this connection amusing, given the Microsoft-themed discussion.