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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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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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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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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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.

Title: CyTek’s Chris Burcham: The Kansas City Journey from Corporate to MSP Leadership

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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] .

Chris Burcham, the CEO of CyTek Corporation, kicks off a chat that dives deep into his journey from corporate life to taking the reins of a managed IT services company. We get the lowdown on his beginnings in Kansas City and how a decade spent at Cerner Corporation set the stage for his entrepreneurial leap. After acquiring a small manufacturing company, Chris found himself leading CyTek, a business rich in history but in need of fresh ideas. He shares the challenges of stepping into a new sector without prior experience in managed services, highlighting the learning curve and the joy of building a strong team. The conversation is peppered with insights on how past corporate environments shaped his leadership style and how he’s unlearning some of those habits to adapt to his new role. It’s a fascinating look at how personal journeys can intertwine with professional evolution, and how sometimes, stepping into the unknown can lead to unexpected success.

Takeaways:

• Chris Burcham took the reins of CyTek Corporation without prior MSP experience, proving you can learn on the job.
• The podcast highlights the importance of having a solid support network when navigating the challenges of running a business.
• Transitioning from a corporate environment to managing a small business can be a wild ride, full of unexpected lessons.
• Understanding client needs and adapting your services is crucial for MSP growth, especially in a competitive market.
• Building a strong team and culture is key to success in any business, as seen in CyTek's growth journey.
• Compliance can be a game changer for MSPs looking to add value to their clients, especially in regulated industries.

We’re diving into the world of family-run MSP businesses and how Micheal Snyder and Logan Snyder, a father-son duo turned transitioned their business from a pure play voice/telecommunications provider into a comprehensive IT provider. Michael as CEO and Logan as COO share their journey from humble beginnings in 1997 to now. They spill the tea on navigating family dynamics in the workplace, including the not-so-fun parts of firing relatives—yikes! We’ll also chat about how becoming a dad changed Logan’s work vibe and sharpened his focus, proving that family ties can be a double-edged sword in business. So grab a drink, kick back, and let’s see how these two keep it all in the family while hustling in the tech world!

Title: Michael Snyder and Logan Snyder at Total BC: Building an MSP with Family

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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:

• Starting a family business can be a wild ride, especially when family dynamics come into play.
• Customer service is not just a policy; it's a passion that drives our business every day.
• Transitioning from voice services to managed IT requires smart decisions and continuous learning.
• Nepotism isn’t our style; we believe in earning respect through hard work and dedication.
• Every client interaction matters; we aim to provide prompt, personal responses every time.
• Trust is built on reliability and stellar service, especially during tough tech crises.

Title: Mike Beecher from Escape Wire: from Equipment Rentals to Managed IT

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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] .

Escape Wire Solutions is a true underdog story in the IT world, and Mike Beecher shares the hilarious and sometimes chaotic journey that led him to become the president of a successful managed service provider (MSP). Starting from a family business in equipment rental, Mike’s path to IT was anything but traditional. He dives into the unexpected twists that led him to the tech industry, including a merger that brought him to an MSP and his eventual leap into entrepreneurship. Throughout the conversation, we get a peek into the challenges of juggling a business while maintaining a work-life balance—like trying to keep a young family happy while running a service that demands constant attention. He reveals how they’ve navigated the waters of client relationships, especially in the current landscape where remote work has become the norm. The episode is packed with relatable anecdotes that make you chuckle while reminding us all that growth comes with its own set of hiccups.

We also explore how Escape Wire Solutions has successfully adapted to the shifting demands of the industry, especially post-pandemic. Mike shares how they pivoted to remote work, and how this shift wasn't just a necessity but an unexpected opportunity for growth. He emphasizes the importance of a strong company culture, even when spread out across different locations. It’s fascinating to hear how the company has maintained a collegial atmosphere where everyone feels they can contribute, all while tackling the technical challenges that come with supporting small to midsize businesses. Mike’s insights into service delivery and how they ensure client satisfaction are particularly enlightening, showcasing the human side of tech support amidst the often cold world of IT.

Towards the end, Mike discusses his vision for the future of Escape Wire Solutions, hinting at ambitious plans for growth and potential acquisitions. His passion for creating opportunities for his employees shines through, as he emphasizes that the goal isn't just to expand the business in terms of revenue but to build a place where employees can thrive and grow. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted yet profound message about the unpredictability of entrepreneurship and the importance of being adaptable while staying true to one’s core values. It’s a must-listen for anyone in the service industry or considering diving into entrepreneurship, sprinkled with humor and heartfelt moments that make you feel like you’re chatting with a friend over coffee.

Title: From SysAdmin to MSP Owner to MSP Coach: Brian Hoppe's Epic Journey

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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] .

Dive deep into the incredible journey of Brian Hoppe, a seasoned IT leader who's not just played the game but has changed it! With over two decades of experience in the managed services and IT industry, he's been through the trenches and come out ahead. Starting as a systems admin, he climbed the ranks to owning Unicom Technologies, which he successfully sold. But that's not where the story ends! Now, he's coaching MSP owners, sharing his wisdom on navigating the ever-evolving IT landscape. This episode isn’t just about the highs; Brian shares some real talk about the challenges he faced, the pivotal decisions that shaped his career, and how peer groups played a transformative role in his growth. If you're in the IT field or just love a good success story, this chat is packed with insights and a sprinkle of humor that'll keep you entertained!

Takeaways:

• Brian Hoppe's journey in IT spans over two decades, showcasing his growth from systems admin to entrepreneur and coach.
• The importance of peer groups and benchmarking was highlighted as a game changer for business growth and efficiency.
• Brian emphasizes that a business's success often hinges on the owner's personal growth and leadership skills.
• Transitioning from break-fix to managed services was a major turning point for Brian's company, leading to significant growth.
• Documentation and process automation are key strategies for maintaining efficiency while scaling a business in the IT sector.
• Brian's coaching focuses on helping MSP owners enhance leadership skills and achieve their financial and business goals.

Title: How Marco Hernandez Does IT: The Solo MSP Story

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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] .

Marco Hernandez runs a one-man MSP called Tech IT Up, focusing on small businesses in the Greater Toronto Area. With over 30 years in the IT game, Marco has carved out a niche catering specifically to solopreneurs and small companies that can't justify a full-time IT staff. His story is a testament to resilience, having transitioned from a law background in Venezuela to IT after a bad experience with computer repair. He emphasizes the importance of client relationships, trust, and personalized service, which is crucial in a market where clients appreciate a hands-on approach. Marco’s strategy revolves around understanding his clients’ needs and providing tailored solutions that keep them coming back. He shares his journey from a break-fix model to a more managed services approach, highlighting the learning curve and the importance of setting clear expectations with clients. With a steady revenue of $150,000 annually, Marco is happy with his lean operation and has no current desire to expand into a large team, preferring the flexibility and control that comes with being a solo operator.

Takeaways:

• Marco's journey as a one-man MSP shows that you can thrive solo without a huge team.
• He believes in focusing on client satisfaction, creating a personalized approach that works wonders.
• Networking has been a game-changer for Marco, helping him find clients and grow his business.
• Marco emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations with clients from the get-go.
• He finds joy in his work, helping clients with their tech challenges and building trust over time.
• Despite the temptation of corporate gigs, Marco's passion keeps him committed to his unique business path.

Title: Dustin Bolander from Clear Guidance: Navigating Partnerships, Growth, and Cyber Insurance

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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] .

Dustin Bolander's journey through the IT landscape is a remarkable testament to the evolution of an entrepreneur. Starting from humble beginnings in a family-run dog training business, Dustin transitioned into the world of technology as a teenager, where he discovered his knack for IT. After working his way up through various roles, he became co-owner of Technology Point, an MSP that he helped grow substantially before selling it. His insights into the challenges of managing a growing business, especially in a partnership with differing visions, offer invaluable lessons for current and aspiring MSP owners. Dustin’s narrative not only underscores the importance of having a clear operational plan but also highlights the pitfalls of partnership dynamics that can derail progress.

Takeaways:

• Dustin Bolander's entrepreneurial journey began in a family business, leading him to the MSP industry.
• He emphasizes the importance of having a clear business plan and aligning partners' goals.
• Dustin's experience taught him that having multiple owners with different visions can lead to conflicts.
• He successfully transitioned his MSP to a managed service model, focusing on recurring revenue.
• Dustin's new venture, Beltex Insurance, offers unique cyber insurance policies tailored for MSPs.
• He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to overcome planning paralysis and take calculated risks.

Clear Guidance website: https://www.clear-guidance.com/

Dustin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbolander/