MSP Owner

In this episode of the MSP Owner Podcast, Ben Tiggelaar sits down with Annette Slavik, President of Prodigy Complete IT Solutions in Tampa Bay.

Annette’s path into IT wasn’t typical. She started her career as an elementary school teacher before stepping into managed IT services — and today she runs a ~$950K MSP supporting roughly 750 endpoints across a focused client base.

In this conversation, Annette shares:

• What it’s like building an MSP without a traditional technical background

• Why referrals alone aren’t a real growth strategy

• The shift from reactive word-of-mouth to intentional marketing

• Lessons from operating in a male-dominated industry

• How education, positioning, and visibility impact MSP growth

• Pricing, peer groups, and pushing past comfort zones as an owner

This episode is especially relevant for MSP owners in the $500K–$5M range who are thinking seriously about growth, positioning, and long-term strategy.

If you're building or scaling a managed service provider, this conversation offers a practical look at what it actually takes to compete in today’s market.

Title: Classroom Teacher to MSP President (Annette Slavik at Prodigy Complete IT Solutions)

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

In this episode of the MSP Owner Podcast, I sit down with Tyler Hoffman, owner of Metro Wireless, to talk candidly about what happens after you buy a business—when the spreadsheets are done and real life shows up. Tyler bought his company using an SBA 7(a) loan with minimal money down. Eight months later, a major customer walked—fast. Not a slow churn. A hard stop. Suddenly, the margin for error disappeared.

We talk through: What it actually feels like to run a leveraged business early on

Why customer concentration risk isn’t just a diligence checkbox

The psychological pressure of being the “owner” when things feel fragile

How discipline around sales, retention, and cost control gets built the hard way

Why surviving the first punch often changes how you operate forever

This isn’t a victory-lap story. It’s a realistic one. If you’ve bought a business—or are thinking about it—this conversation is about the part most people don’t talk about: the gap between owning a company and feeling like you’re actually in control.

Listen if you want an honest look at the post-close reality, not the highlight reel.

Title: The Part of Buying a Business No One Warns You About (Tyler Hoffman from Metro Wireless)

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Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Takeaways:

1. Metro Wireless is all about wireless connectivity, offering a range of services like Starlink and 5G to enhance client experiences.
2. Tyler Hoffman, the CEO, emphasizes their premium approach, focusing on delivering high-quality support and service to their clients.
3. About 85% of Metro Wireless's revenue comes from channel partners, showcasing their strong focus on collaborative business relationships.
4. The company has overcome significant challenges, including losing a major client shortly after acquisition, but they're bouncing back stronger than ever.
5. Tyler's journey from consulting to owning Metro Wireless highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and the importance of adaptability in business.
6. Looking to the future, Metro Wireless aims to continue growing organically while also pursuing acquisition opportunities in the wireless sector.

Today, we’re diving deep with Ken Rolston, a seasoned MSP operator who’s been through the M&A wringer more times than I can count. Seriously, he’s acquired 11 MSPs, exited twice, and is now the mastermind behind MSP Manda. We’re talking about the lessons he learned in the trenches while building his business from scratch to 120 employees and $22 million in revenue. Ken’s got the scoop on what works, what doesn’t, and how to successfully buy, sell, and integrate IT services companies. So if you’re curious about navigating the wild world of MSP mergers and acquisitions, you won’t want to miss this chat!

Title: From 0 to $22M: Ken Rolston’s MSP Acquisition Playbook (and 10x Exit Lessons)

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Takeaways:

1. Ken Rolston shares his journey through the MSP world, from engineering to exits.
2. The podcast emphasizes the importance of culture during mergers and acquisitions.
3. Ken highlights that navigating MSP M&A requires patience and understanding of the human factor.
4. A cyber attack challenged Ken's company but also demonstrated the importance of customer retention.
5. MSP owners need to understand the M&A process better to grow effectively and sustainably.
6. Ken's new venture focuses on helping MSPs navigate the M&A landscape with practical insights.

Title: Decentralized Success: Ramsey Sahyoun Scaling Evergreen to $1 Billion of Revenue

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Diving deep into the world of managed service providers (MSPs), this episode features a chat with Ramsey Sahyoun, co-founder of Evergreen, a holding company that’s making waves in the industry. With a revenue exceeding a billion dollars, Evergreen isn’t your typical MSP – it operates under a decentralized model, owning over a hundred individual platforms. Ramsey shares his journey from a golf-obsessed college kid to a private equity guru, and ultimately to a leader in the MSP space. This episode explores the strategies that set Evergreen apart, including their unique approach to acquisitions (independence), the importance of nurturing individual company cultures, and how to scale without losing the essence of what makes each MSP tick. If you’re an MSP owner or thinking of diving into this industry, there are some golden nuggets in here that could change the way you think about growth and success.

Takeaways:

• Building a successful MSP means focusing on a strong growth engine rather than just operations.
• Evergreen operates with a decentralized model, allowing individual companies to thrive on their own.
• The journey from golf dreams to private equity was a wild ride.
• Acquisition success hinges on finding businesses with potential for organic growth, not just financials.
• Avoiding the integration trap is crucial; decentralized approaches often yield better results in MSP acquisitions.
• Investing in marketing and consistent sales efforts is key to growing MSPs and avoiding stagnation.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Evergreen
• Alpine Investors
• Datatel
• Wolf Consulting
• Constellation Software
• Transdime
• Danher
• Revolution Capital Group

Today, we're diving into the epic journey of Dan Burt, the owner of Solzorro IT Services, who's been hustling in the MSP world for 14 years. He’s grown his Utah-based company to a whopping $1.6 million in annual revenue with a team of 10—most of it recurring revenue! We’ll chat about the rollercoaster ride of going from solo entrepreneur to managing a crew, and how he navigated the tricky waters of hiring and scaling. Plus, I'll share how Dan’s been a mentor to me as I took my own plunge into the MSP business.

Title: Dan Burt (Solzorro IT Services): From Firefighting to....MSP Services

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Dan Burt, the mastermind behind Solzorro IT Services, takes us on a wild ride through his entrepreneurial journey in this episode. Picture this: a part-time tech whiz turned full-time MSP owner, juggling clients and a growing team. Dan shares how he navigated the transition from a solo act to leading a crew of ten, all while scaling his revenue to a whopping $1.6 million annually. It's a relatable tale of grit, lessons learned, and the occasional facepalm moment that every MSP owner can connect with. He’s not just about the numbers, though; he dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster of growing a business—think sleepless nights worrying about payroll, the thrill of landing new clients, and the bittersweet symphony of employee turnovers. Spoiler alert: there’s a heartwarming twist as Dan reflects on how his past influences his present, making every challenge feel a little less daunting.

In our chat, we also unpack the art of maintaining relationships with clients, especially when mergers and acquisitions can throw a wrench in the works. Dan’s philosophy? Keep your clients happy, and they’ll fight to keep you around—even when the bigger fish come swimming in. His insights on client referrals are gold; he emphasizes that nurturing those relationships can lead to a network of super referrers who will champion your services. Plus, we get into the nitty-gritty of what it really means to grow in the MSP space today—hint: it's not just about technical skills but mastering the art of communication and trust. So, if you’re an MSP owner or thinking about diving into the deep end of entrepreneurship, grab a seat and get ready for some serious inspiration and actionable tips!

Takeaways:

• In the podcast, Dan Burt shares his journey of transforming from a part-time worker to a thriving owner of Solzorro IT Services with $1.6 million in revenue, showing the importance of perseverance.
• The conversation dives into how building and nurturing relationships with clients can lead to unexpected referrals, which can significantly boost business growth.
• Dan emphasizes the need for MSP owners to remain adaptable, especially as acquisitions often change client relationships and can lead to challenges in maintaining them.
• Hiring the right team members who care about the company can alleviate the burden of ownership, allowing the owner to focus on growth and strategic planning for the future.
• Both speakers highlight the importance of continuous learning and networking within the industry to stay ahead and adapt to changes, especially with the rise of AI.
• Dan points out that personal relationships and family stability are crucial to maintaining a successful business, as they provide a strong foundation for professional growth.

Check out Dan Burt's company here: https://solzorro.com/

Today, we're diving into the world of managed service providers with the Art Powell, founder and CEO of Trinsic Technologies based in Austin, TX. With 30 employees and around $3 million in annual revenue, Art has quite the journey to share, including how he built his own private cloud and is now jumping into the exciting realm of AI integration. We’ll chat about the challenges of running an MSP, the importance of customer relationships, and how to stay profitable while navigating a competitive landscape. Art's got some witty insights on why not all revenue is good revenue.

Title: Art Powell (Trinsic Technologies): Passion for Service

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Art Powell, the founder of Trinsic Technologies, shares his entrepreneurial journey from humble insurance agent to entrepreneur. With a team of 30 and annual revenues of about $3 million, Art's story is not just about numbers; it's about transformation and adaptation. From his early days tinkering with computers in the '90s, inspired by the first computer his wife bought him, to now leading a company that has embraced cloud technology since 2015, Art emphasizes the importance of evolving in a rapidly changing tech landscape. The episode explores the four key services Trinsic offers: traditional managed services, specialized consulting, private cloud solutions, and an exciting new venture into AI with their product called Call Sniper. Art reflects on the challenges he's faced, the lessons learned, and the importance of building a company culture that prioritizes customer service alongside technological innovation.

Takeaways:

• Art Powell, the founder of Trinsic Technologies, shares how he transitioned from the insurance industry to IT, highlighting the pivotal moment when he fell in love with computers after his wife bought him a PC.
• Trinsic Technologies operates in four main areas: traditional MSP services, consulting, their own private cloud, and AI integration, showcasing a diverse service model to adapt to the market.
• The company has experienced significant growth, reaching approximately $3 million in annual revenue, and emphasizes the importance of relationship-based client interactions to drive success.
• Art stresses that profitability is key, noting that not all revenue is good revenue, and that knowing your profitable clients is crucial for sustainable growth.
• The upcoming AI product, 'Call Sniper', aims to revolutionize the call center industry by efficiently identifying calls that need attention, reflecting their innovative approach in the tech space.
• Art's philosophy emphasizes the importance of evolving business practices to meet changing market demands, drawing parallels between business growth and personal relationships.

Our guest this episode is Wim Kerkhoff tells us how he runs Culture Core Group, a collection of three companies: two MSPs (improvingit and Crafty Penguins) and a SaaS Project Management software company for MSPs (Top Left)! Wim has a lot going on, and has done it well by delegating and elevating himself. We chat about everything from his early tinkering with computers to the challenges he's faced scaling his IT services businesses. We talk candidly about mental health challenges - an underdiscussed topic in the 24/7 world of IT.

Title: Wim Kerkhoff (Culture Core Group): Founding 2 MSPs and a SaaS company

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Wim kicked things off by sharing his early fascination with computers, thanks to his dad who introduced him to the tech world with a 286 computer. Fast forward to high school, where he was bored out of his mind and decided to focus on programming instead of the usual subjects. This led him to a tech startup right after graduation, where he discovered that software development wasn’t his jam, but the product side of things lit a fire in him.

As our conversation flowed, we explored Wim's journey from being an employee to a business owner. He shared how he took the leap into entrepreneurship in 2006, motivated by a mix of personal and professional factors. We also dug into how he learned to let go of control in his businesses, fostering a culture where his team could thrive and take ownership of their roles. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t always easy, but the payoff has been huge. It’s all about building that trust and letting your team shine!

Finally, we wrapped up with a discussion about his latest venture, Top Left, a software tool designed to help MSPs visualize their workflow and improve ticket management. Wim’s insights on agility in project management were eye-opening, especially for those of us who’ve been stuck in the waterfall mindset. In this episode, we not only learned about the nuts and bolts of running an MSP but also how to cultivate a thriving team culture and adapt to the ever-evolving tech landscape. If you’re an MSP owner or just curious about the world of tech, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Takeaways:

• Wim Kirkhoff's journey into the tech world started with his dad's early adoption of computers for construction.
• Transitioning from hands-on tinkering to running multiple MSPs was a wild ride filled with lessons.
• Agile methodologies can massively improve project efficiency in MSPs, but it's all about mindset.
• The importance of letting go and trusting your team can be a game changer for business growth.
• Building community and providing education are key strategies for MSPs to thrive in a competitive market.
• Profit sharing plans and transparency about finances can significantly boost team motivation and performance.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Crafty Penguins
• Improving IT
• Top Left
• DataTel
• Agile MSP

Title: Elmo Taddeo (Parachute Technology): The Power of Letting Go & Delegating

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Elmo Taddeo, CEO of Parachute Technology, is here to share his journey from a psychology major to running a thriving managed service provider in California, pulling in $11.5 million annually with a team of about 70. The chat dives deep into the transition many tech owners struggle with: moving from the nitty-gritty of engineering to the bigger picture of business ownership. Elno's got wisdom to offer about scaling a company, the importance of delegation, and how to shake off the 'do-it-all' mentality that so many of us cling to. He talks about the challenges of hiring and letting go, plus how essential it is to surround yourself with the right people who can help carry the load. From his perspective, the journey of an MSP owner isn't just about tech; it's about people, culture, and finding that sweet spot of growth without losing your mind.

Takeaways:

• In today's episode, we dive deep into Elmo Taddeo's journey building a successful MSP and the lessons learned along the way.
• Elmo emphasizes the importance of transitioning from a technical mindset to a business owner mindset for MSP growth, and where most owners get stuck
• Hiring your first employee is a pivotal moment for MSP owners, marking the shift from solo to team.
• Delegation is vital; learning to let go and trust others is key for scaling your business effectively.
• Finding the right business framework like EOS can create structure and accountability in your organization, making life a lot easier.
• Understanding your company's growth stage helps in making strategic hires and ensuring you're not overstaffed for your revenue.

This episode is with Nick Akers, the President and CEO of Inzo Technologies. We’re diving deep into his journey of rebranding from STL Communications to Enzo Technologies—a big move for a company that’s doing $15 million of revenue with a crew of 40.

Title: Nick Akers (Inzo Technologies): The Art of Acquiring and Rebranding

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Nick Akers, is the CEO and head man behind Inzo Technologies (formerly STL Communications). We kick things off with Nick's unexpected leap into entrepreneurship, starting with a little invention during grad school that caught the eyes of venture capitalists. From there, he transitioned into various leadership roles, including running a family-owned chemical company, where he doubled its revenue before deciding to break free and carve his own path. After a few awkward stumbles in the search fund world, Nick finally found his gem in STL Communications, which he rebranded as Enzo Technologies. This episode is packed with insights on scaling an MSP while keeping company culture intact, and Nick shares some hard-earned lessons on leadership and the importance of a solid team. If you’re looking to grow your own business, you won’t want to miss his take on value creation and the art of navigating the tricky waters of mergers and acquisitions.

We get into the nitty-gritty of MSPs, exploring Nick's strategies for rebranding STL Communications into Inzo Technologies and what it took to maintain a strong team culture amid rapid growth. Nick's journey is not just about the numbers; it’s about the people. He emphasizes the importance of listening to employees and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. We also discuss the challenges of finding the right leadership team and how Nick approached making tough decisions to ensure the company’s future success. It’s a candid conversation filled with practical advice for anyone in the IT space or looking to scale their operations.

Lastly, we can’t forget the juicy bits about the MSP market and vendor relationships. Nick shares his candid thoughts on the less-than-ideal partnerships we often find ourselves in, especially with the rise of private equity in the tech space. He highlights the need for MSPs to be discerning about their vendor partnerships and the importance of delivering exceptional service to clients. So if you’re ready to take notes and pick up some golden nuggets for your own business, this episode is a must-listen!

Takeaways:

• Nick Ackers transitioned STL Communications into Inzo Technologies, reflecting a fresh and strategic rebranding effort.
• The company emphasizes creating a strong culture while navigating significant leadership changes after acquisition.
• Nick's approach prioritizes employee engagement and satisfaction
• The acquisition process involved shifting from a niche focus to a broader market approach in MSP services.
• Nick's leadership style draws inspiration from successful family business practices to foster a people-first workplace.

Title: Mitch Redekopp (River City Technology Services): Transition from Databases to Fully Managed IT

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MSP Owner Podcast website: MSP Owner website

Looking to sell your MSP or partner to take your business to the next level? DataTel actively seeking to acquire quality MSPs to it's capability & client base. If you own an MSP generating more than $1M in revenue annually seeking and wanting a change, contact [email protected] .

Mitch Redekopp, the CEO of River City Technology Services, tells about his journey from the kitchen to the tech world and how he transformed his company from a break-fix model into a thriving managed service provider (MSP). Starting off as a line cook, Mitch took a leap into IT school, where he met his future boss and mentor, Jeff. After hounding Jeff for a job, he became the first employee of River City Tech. The episode dives deep into the evolution of the company, highlighting the shift from focusing on access databases to embracing cyber security and managed IT services. Mitch shares his insights on the challenges of transitioning business models, emphasizing how important it is to adapt to the changing tech landscape.

One of the standout moments in the episode is Mitch's candid discussion about the ups and downs of running a business. He talks about the delicate balance between operational tasks and sales, and how he learned the art of delegation. Through his journey, Mitch learned that hiring people who are smarter than you is crucial for growth. He and his CTO Eric have structured their team in a way that allows them to focus on sales and strategy, freeing up time to expand their client base. The conversation also delves into the importance of understanding client needs and building long-term relationships rather than just chasing quick sales.

Overall, this episode serves as a goldmine of practical advice for aspiring MSP owners and anyone looking to pivot their business model. Mitch's story is not just about the technical side of IT; it's about the human side of business, the relationships built along the way, and the ever-evolving challenge of staying ahead in a competitive market. Grab a coffee, sit back, and soak in the wisdom from Mitch on this episode of the MSP Owner Podcast!

Takeaways:

• Mitch Redekopp transitioned from a break-fix model to managed services, which was a game changer for his business.
• River City Technology Services focuses on offering one all-inclusive package, simplifying their pricing model for clients.
• The importance of personal connections in sales is key; getting to know local businesses boosts client trust and engagement.
• Mitch emphasizes learning from failures and not being afraid to delegate tasks to focus on growth and strategy.