In this engaging episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle introduces Dror Liwer, co-founder of Coro, to dive into the arena of cybersecurity for MSPs (Managed Service Providers).

As the holiday season emerges, there's a significant emphasis on drawing the curtains on 2023 with fortified security strategies. Dror shares Coro's approach to simplifying cybersecurity for small and mid-sized businesses by optimizing MSP capabilities through a robust, single-pane management platform.

The episode explores Coro's unique positioning in the cybersecurity sphere, highlighting their seamless integration approach to mitigate sunk costs and training burdens faced by MSPs. Drawing keen attention to Coro’s strategic alignment with MSPs, Dror discusses their modular cybersecurity platform that addresses six critical security domains, thus redefining efficiency and cost-efficacy in the cybersecurity landscape.

The session also covers how Coro’s solutions facilitate easier transitions to managed services, allowing MSPs to maintain flexibility while expanding their security offerings.

Key Takeaways: 

• Coro's modular cybersecurity platform streamlines security management across six key areas, helping MSPs provide comprehensive protection with minimal sunk costs.
• Leveraging a single endpoint agent, Coro offers seamless integration, allowing IT administrators—regardless of their cybersecurity expertise—to operate efficiently from day one.
• The growing necessity for robust cybersecurity solutions is recognized as a primary driver for MSP growth, with security services forming a key part of customer retention and acquisition strategy.
• Dror emphasizes the importance of MSPs tapping into the rapidly expanding SMB cybersecurity market, projected to quadruple by 2028.
• Coro offers a partner-focused approach, including white-label managed services, to empower MSPs in building and scaling their cybersecurity offerings

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Dror Liwer LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drorliwer/ Company: Coro Website: https://www.coro.net/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylemetathinq/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest

Name: Brian Guenther LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianwguenther/ Company: Exceed Cybersecurity & I.T. Services Website: https://www.exceeditmd.com/ Host

Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Brian Guenther is a seasoned cybersecurity expert and the founder of Exceed Cyber. With over 26 years of experience in the IT and cybersecurity industry, Brian started his career by building PCs and gradually transitioned into IT franchise ownership. He founded Exceed Cyber in 2017, focusing on helping businesses navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity compliance, specifically for those with federal contracts mandated by regulations such as CMMC, SoC2, and ISO 27001.

His deep understanding of governance, risk, and compliance processes makes him a valuable asset for companies needing to secure their operations against current cyber threats.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of MSB Business School, host Brian Doyle sits down with cybersecurity expert Brian Guenther to discuss the nuances of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). As regulations around cybersecurity become more stringent, especially for defense contractors, understanding CMMC's requirements and implications is crucial. Brian Guenther, with his wealth of experience, dives into the evolution of CMMC, highlighting its origins, the essential controls necessary for compliance, and the critical role MSPs play in this landscape.

The discussion delves into how CMMC has become a focal point for organizations dealing with controlled unclassified information (CUI) and why being prepared for compliance is vital. Brian Guenther emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement in compliance processes, illustrating how MSPs can leverage their positioning by becoming CMMC-certified to differentiate themselves in the marketplace. He also sheds light on the geopolitical nuances affecting these regulations and how changes in political leadership might influence—but not diminish—the momentum towards stricter cybersecurity standards for federal contractors.

• CMMC is paramount for defense contractors: Understanding and implementing CMMC is crucial as it enforces standards that contractors should have been following since 2017.
• Compliance does not equal security: While security frameworks like NIST 800-171 underpin CMMC, compliance serves as an initial checkpoint rather than the full spectrum of cybersecurity.
• MSPs must prepare adequately: Even though MSPs are not directly required to certify under CMMC, being prepared and knowledgeable is crucial for assisting clients.
• Cyber liability is a key driver: Insurance and regulatory requirements are pushing businesses to adopt more sophisticated cybersecurity measures.
• Proactive steps are essential: Waiting for enforcement isn't viable; MSPs and their clients should start their compliance journey immediately.

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Zack Keeney  LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharykeeney/ Company: TriUnity Strategies Website: https://triunitystrategies.com/ Host

Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ In this engaging episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle talks with Zack Keeney from Triunity Strategies. Zack shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a challenging environment to excelling in the corporate world with Domino's, where he developed robust operational and leadership skills. This episode unpacks Zack's life experiences and his passion for empowering others through Triunity Strategies, a company focused on providing leadership and skill development programs at no cost to individuals.

The conversation further explores the significant gaps in training within the MSP sector and how Triunity Strategies aims to bridge these through strategic business support and personal development initiatives. Zack elaborates on his approach to fostering skills within the community, targeting those from various backgrounds, and creating better pathways for professional growth. This episode focuses on addressing common challenges MSPs face, like resource allocation, and Zack's philosophy of placing "aces in their places" for enhanced operational efficiency.

Key Takeaways: 

• Leadership Development Programs: Triunity's initiatives draw inspiration from industry programs like those at Domino's, offering free leadership and skills development opportunities to empower individuals.
• Addressing Skills Gaps: The MSP industry struggles with a disparity between available skills and market needs, and Zack's company works to bridge this gap by equipping clients with vital skills.
• Understanding Work Environment Dynamics: Zack emphasizes the importance of a supportive work culture that values employees, citing it as crucial for retention and worker satisfaction.
•  Empowering MSPs in Growth: Triunity Strategies offers strategic solutions for MSPs, helping improve operations, structure, and team accountability, thereby fostering sustainable growth. 
• Innovative Community Empowerment: By creating programs aimed at educating and empowering individuals from varied socio-e

Sponsor

vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Dan Tomaszewski LinkedIn page:   / dantomaszewski   Company: Everything MSP Website: https://everythiingmsp.com Host Brian Doyle:   / briandoylemetathinq   Welcome to the latest episode of the MSP Business School Podcast featuring Brian Doyle and guest Dan Tomaszewski from Everything MSP. Listeners will be captivated by the dynamic conversation that flips the usual script—a reflection on the shared experiences of being both the interviewer and the interviewee.

Brian and Dan delve into the evolution of MSPs and highlight the critical need for community among them through initiatives like Everything MSP. Dan shares his entrepreneurial journey from high school businesses to founding an MSP, painting a vivid picture of his career rooted in technology and marketing.

The episode is brimming with insights into the MSP community's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Emphasizing community strength, Dan talks about launching Everything MSP to facilitate discussion and growth for MSPs worldwide. From WTF Wednesdays to A Very Merry MSP Holiday, Everything MSP is presented as an invaluable resource for IT professionals seeking collaboration and innovation.

Throughout the episode, SEO-optimized discussions touch on key MSP challenges, the concept of "coopetition" in the IT space, and strategies for fostering a collaborative environment in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Key Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurial Roots: Dan Tomaszewski's journey from school-time businesses to leading an MSP highlights the importance of passion for technology and entrepreneurship.
• Community Impact of Everything MSP: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the role of Everything MSP in providing daily support and resources, evolving into a thriving hub for MSP collaboration.
• Benefits of Collaboration: The episode emphasizes "coopetition," where MSPs and vendors help each other grow through sharing knowledge and collaboration.
• Resources for MSPs: Everything MSP offers various free resources such as peer group discussions, educational webinars, and networking opportunities to empower MSPs.
• Engaging Events: Initiatives like WTF Wednesdays provide MSPs with crucial insights into legal, marketing, sales, and more, while A Very Mer

Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Paul Daigle  LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldaigle100/ Company: BizAdvisoryBoard Website: https://bizadvisoryboard.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylemetathinq/ Brian Doyle is joined by Paul Daigle from bizadvisoryboard.com to discuss navigating the MSP landscape. Paul shares insights on transitioning from a VAR to an MSP, growth through acquisitions, and the importance of specialization in markets. They delve into the challenges of scaling MSP businesses, focusing on moving through financial peer groups, and understanding business valuation. Paul introduces tools to help MSPs assess their business worth and provides guidance on accelerating growth. This episode is packed with practical advice for MSP owners aiming to enhance their strategic direction and value. Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

In this engaging episode of the MSP Business School podcast, host Brian Doyle welcomes Doug Kreitzberg of SeedPod Cyber as a Pitch IT finalist. Doug, joined by recurring guest and ConnectWise Evangelist, Sean Lardo and his coach Matt Koenig, a PitchIT finalist with Nodeware. They discuss the significance of cyber insurance within the MSP space. Brian humorously acknowledges Sean's growth as a regular contributor on the show before diving deep into how SeedPod Cyber's innovative solutions are bridging critical gaps in the industry. Matt, a coach from across the globe, shares insights from Tokyo, Japan, adding a multicultural dimension to the lively discussion.

The conversation highlights the critical role of proactive risk management in safeguarding businesses against cyber threats. "There is something sexy about getting your claim paid in full," Brian states, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive cyber policies. With less than three weeks to the finals at It Nation, Doug draws attention to how Seed Pod Cyber is elevating MSPs' capabilities by facilitating conversations around cyber liability insurance. The competition underscores each contestant's unique narrative, promising an intense showdown with Doug's product potentially emerging as a frontrunner.

• Cyber Insurance Importance: Cyber insurance is vital to safeguarding businesses, especially SMBs, post-breach, potentially saving their existence.

• MSP Empowerment: Seed Pod Cyber aids MSPs in risk conversations, offering insightful tools to guide clients on cyber policies.

• Product Differentiation: Understanding and explaining the coverage details of insurance policies can set MSPs apart in client interactions.

• Market Positioning: Matt emphasizes the sexiness of a product that ensures clients' claims will be paid, illustrating market needs.

Integration and Involvement: The show discusses vendors' integration within MSP offerings, maintaining efficiency and agnosticism. Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Doug Kreitzberg  LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougkreitzberg/ Company: Seedpod Cyber Website: https://seedpodcyber.com/ Name: Matthew Koenig LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkkoenig/ Company: Nodeware Website: https://nodeware.com/ Name: Sean Lardo LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanlardo/ Company: ConnectWise Website: https://connectwise.com Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/

Join Brian Doyle and special guests Bobby Jacobs from Thread and Zach Kromkowski from Senteon, as they delve into the intricacies of the Connectwise Pitch It competition. In this captivating episode, you will get an insider's view of what it takes to succeed in a Shark Tank-like contest designed for startup vendors who support the MSP (Managed Service Provider) space. Bobby and Zach discuss the nuances of pitching, their experiences in the competition, and invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Sean Lardo, the mastermind behind the Pitch It program, adds depth with his industry insights and overarching strategies.

In the Pitch It competition, 26 vendors undergo a rigorous selection and presentation process, culminating in a thrilling live pitch-off at IT Nation Connect. Bobby Jacobs, who led Thread to victory last year, emphasizes the necessity of articulating your product's value succinctly. Zach Krumkowski, whose company Senteon automates security policy enforcement, shares his strategic approach to reaching the finals. The conversation dives deep into how early-stage tech companies can scale through community engagement and partnership, all while maintaining a focus on solving real-world problems.

The discussion also illuminates the role of Connectwise and other industry giants in facilitating the growth of innovative startups. It’s not just about winning the prize money but leveraging the platform to make industry connections that can exponentially grow your business. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice, motivational stories, and strategic insights beneficial for anyone in the MSP ecosystem or looking to break into the tech world.

Key Takeaways

• Importance of succinctly conveying your product's value to prospective clients and judges.
• How the Connectwise Pitch It competition can accelerate startup growth by providing exposure and fostering partnerships.
• Real-world experiences and strategies from past winners and finalists.
• The critical role of community engagement and customer feedback in refining your product.
• Practical advice for startups on how to navigate early-stage challenges and scale effectively. Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Zach Kromkowski  LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/securityzachkromkowski/ Company: Senteon Website: https://senteon.co/ Name: Bobby Jacobs LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbyjacobs/ Company: Thread Website: https://www.getthread.com/ Name: Sean Lardo LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanlardo/ Company: ConnectWise Website: https://connectwise.com Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guests:

Sean Lardo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanlardo/ Andrea Barrow - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreabarrow/ Sam Hoyen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-hoyen-4711611a4/

Company: ConnectWise (Invent) Website: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/pitchit Today’s episode features an in-depth discussion with the Connectwise PitchIT team, including Sean Lardo, Andrea Barrow, and Sam Hoyen. As they gear up for IT Nation Connect, the team shares the excitement and challenges of the PitchIT competition, where innovative startups compete for the top spot.

This year’s PitchIT program saw a diverse group of finalists, each representing different tech industry segments. Sean Lardo emphasizes the evolution and improved quality of contestants, while Andrea Barrow highlights the importance of community and collaboration among participants. The conversation delves into the unique strengths of each finalist and the supportive environment that PitchIT fosters, encouraging innovation and growth.

The episode also explores the Connectwise Invent program, a crucial pathway for vendors to integrate with the Connectwise platform and gain the coveted stamp of approval. Andrea Barrow explains how the program supports vendors through technical guidance and security reviews. Sam Hoyen shares his excitement as a new team member and underscores the importance of community connections formed through events like ChannelCon's Crow’s Nest.

Key Takeaways: 

•  PitchIT Program Evolution: The quality and diversity of PitchIT contestants have significantly improved, showcasing a wide range of innovative solutions.
• Community Building Participants benefit from forming valuable connections with peers who are going through similar business challenges.
• Invent Program: Connectwise’s Invent program provides essential technical and security support for vendors, ensuring high-quality integrations.
• Importance of Pitch Practice: Competitors need to master different types of pitches (30-second, 1-minute, 5-minute) for various engagement scenarios.
• Event Highlights: The success of ChannelCon’s Crow's Nest event demonstrates the power of networking and community support.

Host: Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ 

Sponsors vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/

Guest Name: Brandi Bonds  LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandi-bonds-998a676/ Company: Next Level Now Website: https://nextlevelnow.net/ Hosts: Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylemetathinq/ In this episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle welcomes Brandi Bonds, Managing Partner of Next Level Now. Brandi brings her wealth of expertise in fractional CFO services to the table, discussing how MSPs can better manage their finances and increase profitability. With her extensive background in the industry, Brandi offers valuable insights into the financial challenges and opportunities MSPs face, especially in today’s competitive market influenced by mergers, acquisitions, and private equity firms.

The conversation kicks off with Brandi sharing her background and journey into the MSP world. She then delves into the critical issue of how financial structuring can significantly impact a business’s valuation, particularly during acquisitions. Brandi emphasizes the importance of proper financial presentation and discusses common pain points MSPs encounter, such as improper expense classification and misunderstanding the accrual versus cash basis accounting. She also highlights the benefits of transit.

Key Takeaways:

• Proper Financial Structuring: Correctly setting up financial systems and understanding accrual versus cash basis can significantly enhance business valuation.
• Importance of Utilization: Tracking employee utilization accurately can help optimize staffing and improve profitability.
• Advantages of Fixed Fee Billing: Shifting from hourly to fixed fee contracts can stabilize revenue, simplify billing, and increase business valuation.
• Investment Decisions: Borrowing when you don't need it and utilizing reliable financial forecasting tools are crucial for prudent business investments.
• AI and MSPs: Integrating AI can streamline routine tasks, yet maintaining personal connections with clients remains vital.

Sponsors vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com