Join Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler as they dive into the perplexing question of why Managed Service Providers (MSPs) aren't recognized as a distinct industry. They explore the challenges MSPs face, from lack of national standards to identity crises, and discuss the future of IT consulting.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the importance of continuous improvement in business, particularly in the MSP industry. They emphasize the need for iterative development, understanding customer feedback, and adapting products to meet evolving market demands. The discussion highlights the journey of product evolution, the challenges faced, and the strategies employed to ensure ongoing growth and relevance in a competitive landscape.

In this episode, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the evolution of IT services, emphasizing the need for IT professionals to embrace change and innovation. They explore the importance of being involved in various technology solutions, the shift to cloud computing, and the integration of AI into business practices. The conversation highlights the necessity of identifying opportunities in technology and encourages listeners to innovate beyond traditional boundaries.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Loren Williams discuss the operations of PCs for People, a nonprofit organization focused on refurbishing and distributing computers to low-income households. They delve into the processes of data destruction, security protocols, and the importance of providing updated technology to those in need. The discussion also covers the organization's approach to recycling, surplus equipment sales, and the impact of technology access on community members.

In this conversation, Adam Walter interviews Lauren Williams from PCs for People, a nonprofit organization dedicated to refurbishing and distributing computers to low-income households. The discussion covers the origins of the organization, its growth, the refurbishment process, the types of equipment needed, software licensing, community initiatives, and the importance of partnerships in achieving their mission. Lauren shares insights into the impact of their work on bridging the digital divide and providing access to technology for those in need.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler explore the theme of hypocrisy in business, particularly in the context of client relationships and communication. They discuss the challenges of maintaining human connections while leveraging automation, the importance of flexibility in adapting to new ideas, and the necessity of evaluating past decisions in light of current circumstances. The dialogue emphasizes the need for continuous growth and the acceptance of change as a sign of maturity.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler explore the parallels between maintaining a swimming pool and running a business. They discuss the importance of addressing foundational issues, understanding the unique context of each business, and the significance of company culture. The conversation emphasizes that the right advice and tools must be tailored to the specific needs of a business, much like the maintenance of a pool varies based on its type and environment. They conclude with the idea that businesses, like pools, require ongoing care to avoid becoming problematic.

In this episode, Adam Walter and Jonathan Crow discuss the origin and evolution of the 'Backups and Bandwidth' initiative, focusing on the importance of tabletop exercises in incident response and cybersecurity. They explore how these exercises can help teams prepare for real-world scenarios, improve communication, and enhance business continuity planning. The conversation highlights the need for regular testing and the democratization of cybersecurity practices for smaller businesses.

Summary

In this podcast, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the importance of seeking external advice for business leadership. They explore how to qualify good leadership advice, the significance of understanding different perspectives, and the role of true leaders in guiding organizations. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning, adapting to cultural changes, and finding the right mentors to foster growth and success in business.

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the critical topic of customer red flags in the context of managed service providers (MSPs). They explore how to identify red flags in client relationships, the importance of client compatibility, and strategies for managing toxic clients. The discussion emphasizes the need for a pre-agreement checklist, evaluating client turnover rates, and finding ideal clients to foster a positive business environment. The conversation concludes with actionable takeaways for MSPs to improve their client relationships and business growth.