It's a Numbers Game

It's a Numbers Game

By Daniel WellingBusinessManagement
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It's a Numbers Game episodes

  • EP123 – Selling Hardware Without the Pain or the Price War with Alicia Shepherd

    In this episode, Alicia discusses her role as a hybrid distributor and manufacturer within the Wortmann Group, focusing on Terra branded devices and their distribution of over 10,000 SKUs from various major brands. The conversation delves into supply chain issues exacerbated by the pandemic and the Windows 10 support cessation, and how Terra positions itself against tier-one brands like HP, Dell, and Lenovo. Alicia highlights the importance of future-proofing devices, maintaining robust MSP relationships, and navigating the complex supply chain environment. She also emphasises Terra's commitment to delivering value and facilitating MSP margins through unique service models and leveraging their manufacturing insights.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:07 Discussing Product Supply Issues

    00:49 Understanding the Hybrid Model

    01:41 Market Position and Clientele

    03:20 Challenges in Hardware Procurement

    08:16 Service and Support Differentiation

    12:22 Current Supply Chain Challenges

    22:02 Future Proofing and Device Specifications

    27:44 Margin and Market Strategy

    29:18 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Connect with Alicia Shepherd on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliciashepherd/

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    Register for the MSP Golf Day 12/03/26 at https://mspgolf.co.uk/

    34 min
  • EP122 – If MFA Stops 99% of Attacks… Why Are Companies Still Being Breached - with Al Lakhani

    In this episode, the Adam and Daniel welcome Al Lakhani a cybersecurity expert, to discuss the revolutionary MFA 2.0 technology. Al explains how traditional MFA (Multifactor Authentication) methods, known as MFA 1.0, are vulnerable to credential phishing attacks, highlighting recent breaches by the Shiny Hunters group. He introduces MFA 2.0, which utilises public key cryptography to eliminate passwords and ensure device-based identity verification, preventing attacks effectively. The conversation delves into the limitations of current MFA methods, the advantages of MFA 2.0, and the importance of moving from detection to prevention in cybersecurity. Al also discusses the educational challenges in the industry and the potential for MFA 2.0 to simplify IT departments' roles by eliminating credential management issues. Despite the complexity and market resistance, Al believes MFA 2.0 offers a transformative approach to cybersecurity. The episode wraps up with a call to action for MSPs interested in trailing MFA 2.0 and ensuring robust security for their clients.

    00:00 Introduction and Greetings

    00:25 The Problem with MFA 1.0

    01:19 Introducing MFA 2.0

    03:47 How MFA 2.0 Works

    07:54 Challenges and Solutions

    14:35 Market Adoption and Competitors

    26:54 Conclusion and Next Steps

    Connect with Al Lakhani on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/getidee/

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    33 min
  • EP121 – Using AI to Solve Real MSP Problems with Roy Castleman

    In this episode, Roy Castleman joins the podcast to share insights from his extensive experience in leveraging AI to run multiple businesses. The conversation delves into practical applications of AI, the challenges of selecting the right tools amongst many, and optimising AI usage through clear communication and iterative prompting. Roy emphasises the importance of understanding AI as an enhancement tool rather than a replacement and details a method of using AI to form a 'virtual board of directors' for business advice. The episode also touches on various aspects of experimenting with AI tools and offers valuable tips on using AI effectively.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:20 Diving into AI and Business Efficiency

    02:15 Choosing the Right AI Tools

    03:45 AI as a Critical Thinking Partner

    04:59 Practical Applications of AI

    06:39 Challenges and Limitations of AI

    09:10 Setting Up AI for Business

    16:34 Effective AI Communication

    24:29 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    Connect with Roy Castleman on LinkedIn here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/roycastleman

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, here – https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    31 min
  • EP120 – Selling Cybersecurity to Clients Who Think They're Not a Target with Adam Pilton

    In this episode, Adam Pilton from Heimdal discusses his role in educating and supporting MSPs and small businesses on cybersecurity. He shares his unique perspective drawn from a 15-year career in law enforcement and as a Cyber Essentials auditor. The conversation covers the importance of storytelling, recognising and mitigating risks, maintaining cybersecurity standards like Cyber Essentials, and building trust-based client relationships. Practical strategies for engaging clients and the necessity of continued education on cybersecurity threats are also highlighted.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:25 Adam's Background and Role at Heimdal

    02:26 Challenges Faced by Small Businesses in Cybersecurity

    06:52 Importance of Storytelling in Cybersecurity

    12:18 Cyber Essentials and Frameworks

    24:50 Client Relationships and Trust

    31:55 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Connect with Adam Pilton LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adampilton

    Read Adam Pilton's newsletter at – https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-cyber-detective%E2%80%99s-notebook-7389285479634075648/

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    35 min
  • EP119 – How MSPs Should Start With AI Today with Fiona Challis

    In this episode, Fiona discusses the rapid advancements in AI, especially in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) sector. The conversation delves into how AI avatars are surpassing human avatars in social media, the adaptation of MSPs to AI technologies, and the importance of staying updated in the swiftly changing AI landscape. Fiona recalls past initiatives like the Mentori Program which helped navigate industry transformations and compares it to current AI integration. She emphasises the need for MSPs to embrace tools like Microsoft Copilot as an entry into AI, and outlines a structured path from basic AI applications to complex, agent-driven solutions. The discussion also highlights the importance of readiness assessments, internal adoption of AI tools, and the significant market demand driven by end users. MSP owners are encouraged to start small and gradually scale their AI capabilities, ensuring they don't miss out on emerging opportunities.

    00:00 Introduction and Greetings

    00:17 AI Avatars vs. Human Avatars

    01:06 Recent Developments in AI and MSP Land

    01:24 The Mentori Program and Industry Shifts

    02:12 The Biggest Shift in the Channel

    02:58 Monetising AI in the Channel

    03:57 Challenges and Solutions for MSPs

    04:21 The Seven Week Challenge: From Copilot to AI

    04:52 Demand Driven by End Users

    05:33 The Role of MSPs in Leading AI

    07:04 Selling AI as a Transformation Tool

    07:26 Real-World AI Implementation Stories

    09:30 Steps for MSPs to Get Started with AI

    12:09 The Importance of Internal Adoption

    12:52 Readiness Assessment and Pilot Programs

    18:59 The Future of AI in the Channel

    27:22 Training Programs and Continuous Learning

    30:29 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Connect with Fiona Challis LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionachallis

    If partners are asking "How do we sell AI?" this is the best place to start – https://fionachallis.mykajabi.com/copilotchallenge -

    If they are already ahead and clients are now asking "Can AI actually do the work?" - this is the best place for them - This is Mentori for AI – https://agenticaiprovidersystem.com/

    Use code ITSANUMBERSGAME at checkout to get a £250 saving.

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    35 min
  • EP118 – Confidence, Change and Better Decisions with Graham Norris

    In this engaging episode, hosts Daniel, Adam and guest Graham Norris explore their personal journeys within the Toastmasters program, highlighting its significant impact on their public speaking skills and confidence. They share stories about overcoming initial fears and discuss how repeated practice at Toastmasters helped them become better communicators. Graham describes how his experience with Toastmasters led him into a career as a professional speaker and organisational psychologist. The conversation also delves into broader themes of navigating change and uncertainty, making informed decisions, and the importance of experimentation. Both host and guest underscore the invaluable benefits of Toastmasters in various facets of life and business, making a strong case for participation in such programs.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:23 Personal Toastmasters Journeys

    01:31 Overcoming Public Speaking Fears

    04:45 Practical Benefits of Toastmasters

    07:43 Transition to Professional Speaking

    10:14 Navigating Future Uncertainties

    23:26 The Value of Experimentation and Decision Making

    26:09 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Connect with Graham Norris LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamnorris/

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    30 min
  • EP117 – Consolidate, Certify, Comply: Jason Kemsley's MSP Playbook for 2026

    In this episode, host Daniel welcomes Jason Kemsley to discuss the evolving landscape of Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Jason shares his insights on the three Cs that will define successful MSPs by 2026: Consolidation, Certification, and Compliance. The conversation explores the importance of niching down and standardising operations to thrive in a competitive market. They also delve into how certifications can enhance credibility and the role of compliance in achieving market leadership. The episode concludes with a brief teaser for a future aviation-themed episode, promising an interesting twist on the discussion.

    00:00 Introduction and Warm-Up

    00:38 The Three Cs of MSPs in 2026

    01:41 Consolidation: The First C

    18:16 Certification and Standards: The Second C

    22:51 Compliance: The Third C

    26:50 Shameless Plug and Future Plans

    Connect with Jason Kemsley on LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-kemsley-630983159/

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    33 min
  • EP116 – Why Your MSP Contracts Are Costing You Profit with Anne Hall

    In this podcast episode, Adam, Daniel, and Anne discuss the significance of legal agreements for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and how they impact EBITDA. They discuss the inherent risks MSPs face, the importance of proactive use of contracts, and common pitfalls like revenue leakage from services out of scope. The conversation highlights the need for MSPs to educate their clients and align internal processes with contractual commitments. They emphasise that contracts are not merely for worst-case scenarios but are essential for mitigating risks and ensuring business success. The episode provides insights into how MSPs can better structure their agreements and services to protect both their businesses and clients.

    00:00 Introduction

    00:23 Connecting EBITDA and MSP Legal Agreements

    01:11 The Importance of Contracts for MSPs

    02:47 Proactive Use of Contracts

    04:33 In Scope vs. Out of Scope

    09:05 Onboarding and Initial Assessments

    11:26 Managing Client Expectations

    20:32 Adapting Contracts for Different Services

    22:49 Global Differences in MSP Practices

    28:12 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Connect with Anne Hall LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/annehall-itagree

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwelling/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    32 min
  • EP115 - Building Trust with Effective Case Studies with Rob Beadle

    In this episode, industry expert Rob joins the hosts to discuss the significance of high-quality, effective case studies for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). The conversation delves into the current state of case study usage among top UK MSPs, revealing that while many are embracing both written and video formats, there is still a lot of room for improvement. Rob outlines the primary benefits of case studies, emphasising their role in building trust and credibility. He also differentiates between case studies and testimonials, highlighting their respective strengths and uses. The episode offers practical advice on selecting clients for case studies, conducting insightful interviews, and producing engaging content. Rob also shares his thoughts on integrating customer feedback and tackling sensitive topics delicately. Additionally, the hosts and Rob touch on the balance between polished and authentic content and the future impact of AI on copywriting.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:08 The Importance of Case Studies for MSPs

    00:39 Current State of Case Studies in the MSP Space

    01:16 Benefits of Using Case Studies

    03:35 Testimonials vs. Case Studies

    04:53 Creating Effective Case Studies

    07:29 Combining Video and Written Case Studies

    13:32 Challenges and Sensitivities in Case Studies

    22:35 Steps to Create a Case Study

    30:10 Ideal Length and Structure of Case Studies

    33:01 Conclusion and Contact Information

    34:09 The Role of AI in Copywriting

    Connect with Rob Beadle on LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbeadleuk/

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-welling-54659715/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    41 min
  • EP114 – MSP Show 2025 - M&A Masterclass - Positioning for the Perfect Deal​

    In this informative session, Adam and Dan delve into the intricate world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) specifically tailored for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Recorded live at the MSP Show 2025, returning for a second year to the London exhibition, the duo builds upon last year's discussion on valuations and management accounts to explore negotiation tactics and heads of terms. They aim to share insights on due diligence and deal completion in future sessions. The script includes a unique role-play segment illustrating a negotiation between a buyer and a seller, offering viewers a realistic glimpse into the M&A process. Throughout the session, the importance of preparation, trust, financial clarity, and strategic alignment is emphasised. The session concludes with an interactive Q&A segment addressing key issues like market trends and seller expectations.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    01:16 Background and Experience of the Speakers

    02:15 Role Play Setup: Buyer and Seller

    04:04 Seller's Business Overview

    09:41 Buyer's Business Overview and Preparation

    13:46 Heads of Terms and Valuation Discussion

    16:59 Negotiation Begins

    22:31 Client Retention Concerns

    23:09 Earnout Structure and Final Offer

    23:48 Negotiation Pause and Reflection

    25:13 Resuming Negotiations

    25:42 Unexpected Financial Hurdles

    27:12 Deal Reconsideration

    28:27 Key Takeaways and Q&A

    32:02 Market Trends and Buyer Dynamics

    38:59 Final Remarks and Audience Interaction

    Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here –https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-welling-54659715/

    Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris/

    Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here –https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/

    MSP Glossary: MSP Finance Glossary Explained | MSP Finance Team

    We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!

    42 min

About It's a Numbers Game

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The MSP Finance Team Podcast "It's a Numbers Game" from the only financial management solution for MSPs in the UK, founded by former MSP-owners.

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