Tech One, Two

The TECH ONE, TWO Podcast is BACK – and we’re coming in hotter than ever. This reboot launch episode flips the script as 444 Media’s CEO/Founder and pro podcast host John Morris sits down with EMPIST CEO/Founder — and TECH ONE, TWO host — John Kampas for an unfiltered, high-energy origin story you won’t hear anywhere else. Episode Breakdown In this premiere reboot, John Morris pulls back the curtain on:

Why You Need This Episode If you’re a business leader, founder, tech decision-maker, or brand builder, this episode delivers real-world, battle-tested insights from a proven IT innovator and brand builder. You’ll hear how EMPIST went from a small IT shop to a recognized leader in Managed IT, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Solutions with a quarter century of expertise backing some of the most demanding organizations out there. You’ll also get the mindset, principles, and culture playbook behind a team that shows up energized, obsessed with service, and relentlessly focused on client outcomes. About EMPIST EMPIST is a Chicago-headquartered, award-winning IT Services and Consulting company delivering Managed IT, Cybersecurity, Cloud, and Digital solutions to businesses that refuse to settle for average. With over 25 years of experience and recognition including Channel Futures MSP 501, CRN MSP 500 Pioneer 250, and more, EMPIST is built to keep organizations secure, productive, and ready for what’s next. From 24/7 support to strategic technology leadership, EMPIST helps businesses reduce risk, cut costs, and turn technology into a competitive advantage. Keep the Conversation Going Tap into the EMPIST ecosystem and stay plugged into all things TECH ONE, TWO:

Hit subscribe, turn on notifications, and buckle up — the TECH ONE, TWO Podcast is just getting started. Powerhouse founders, CMOs, CIOs, partners, and business leaders will be joining John Kampas to talk about scaling smart, protecting what matters, and building brands that actually stand out. https://empist.com/top-it-services-in-chic... Tech One Two Podcast, EMPIST podcast, EMPIST Tech One Two, EMPIST Managed IT, Chicago managed service provider, MSP 501, CRN MSP 500, IT services Chicago, managed IT services, cybersecurity services, cloud solutions, IT strategy for business, digital transformation, IT leadership, IT for SMBs, best MSP in Chicago, business technology podcast, IT and cybersecurity podcast, John Kampas EMPIST, John Morris 444 Media, tech founder stories, MSP growth, IT brand strategy. #TechOneTwo #EMPIST #ManagedIT #MSP #Cybersecurity #CloudSolutions #ITServices #BusinessIT #DigitalTransformation #TechLeadership #ITStrategy #MSP501 #CRNMSP500 #ChicagoTech #ITConsulting #BrandBuilding #FounderStories #BusinessPodcast #TechPodcast #ITPodcast #CIO #CTO #CEO #SmallBusinessIT #MidMarketIT #ITSecurity #FutureOfWork #ITInnovation #CultureDriven

The TECH ONE, TWO Podcast is BACK – and we’re coming in hotter than ever. This reboot launch episode flips the script as 444 Media’s CEO/Founder and pro podcast host John Morris sits down with EMPIST CEO/Founder — and TECH ONE, TWO host — John Kampas for an unfiltered, high-energy origin story you won’t hear anywhere else. Episode Breakdown In this premiere reboot, John Morris pulls back the curtain on:

Why You Need This Episode If you’re a business leader, founder, tech decision-maker, or brand builder, this episode delivers real-world, battle-tested insights from a proven IT innovator and brand builder. You’ll hear how EMPIST went from a small IT shop to a recognized leader in Managed IT, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Solutions with a quarter century of expertise backing some of the most demanding organizations out there. You’ll also get the mindset, principles, and culture playbook behind a team that shows up energized, obsessed with service, and relentlessly focused on client outcomes. About EMPIST EMPIST is a Chicago-headquartered, award-winning IT Services and Consulting company delivering Managed IT, Cybersecurity, Cloud, and Digital solutions to businesses that refuse to settle for average. With over 25 years of experience and recognition including Channel Futures MSP 501, CRN MSP 500 Pioneer 250, and more, EMPIST is built to keep organizations secure, productive, and ready for what’s next. From 24/7 support to strategic technology leadership, EMPIST helps businesses reduce risk, cut costs, and turn technology into a competitive advantage. Keep the Conversation Going Tap into the EMPIST ecosystem and stay plugged into all things TECH ONE, TWO:

Hit subscribe, turn on notifications, and buckle up — the TECH ONE, TWO Podcast is just getting started. Powerhouse founders, CMOs, CIOs, partners, and business leaders will be joining John Kampas to talk about scaling smart, protecting what matters, and building brands that actually stand out. https://empist.com/top-it-services-in-chic... Tech One Two Podcast, EMPIST podcast, EMPIST Tech One Two, EMPIST Managed IT, Chicago managed service provider, MSP 501, CRN MSP 500, IT services Chicago, managed IT services, cybersecurity services, cloud solutions, IT strategy for business, digital transformation, IT leadership, IT for SMBs, best MSP in Chicago, business technology podcast, IT and cybersecurity podcast, John Kampas EMPIST, John Morris 444 Media, tech founder stories, MSP growth, IT brand strategy. #TechOneTwo #EMPIST #ManagedIT #MSP #Cybersecurity #CloudSolutions #ITServices #BusinessIT #DigitalTransformation #TechLeadership #ITStrategy #MSP501 #CRNMSP500 #ChicagoTech #ITConsulting #BrandBuilding #FounderStories #BusinessPodcast #TechPodcast #ITPodcast #CIO #CTO #CEO #SmallBusinessIT #MidMarketIT #ITSecurity #FutureOfWork #ITInnovation #CultureDriven

When IT, Marketing, and Operations operate in isolation, innovation suffers and goals misalign. In this episode, we dive into how organizations can foster cross-functional collaboration by identifying where silos exist, establishing shared goals, improving communication across teams, and building systems that support integration.

In this episode of Tech One, Two, we break down what Windows 10 End-of-Life (EOL) really means for businesses, IT leaders, and everyday users. With Microsoft’s official support ending in October 2025, the clock is ticking on a technology that has powered organizations for nearly a decade. What are the risks of staying on Windows 10? What steps should you take to plan an upgrade or transition? And what pitfalls should you avoid along the way? Join us as we guide you through the key considerations, timelines, and action steps to keep your systems secure, compliant, and future-ready. 

In this episode of Tech One, Two, we break down the essential tech every small business actually needs and why skipping it could cost you more than you think. From backups to budgeting, ransomware to real talk, this is the IT reality check you didn’t know you needed.

This is another special Tech One, Two Podcast episode that takes place at the ABA Techshow 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago. EMPIST CEO John Kampas and CFO Nick Stavropoulos discuss why EMPIST is in attendance and the importance of the event to the legal community.

This special Tech One Two Podcast episode takes a look back at 25 years of EMPIST with CEO John Kampas and COO Andrew Bochantin. Join as they reflect on meeting for the first time as client and vendor and through the company’s journey, milestones, and evolution. The conversation dives into key moments of growth, technological advancements, and the foundational role of trust, service, and continuous improvement in shaping the organization's future.

In this episode of the Tech One, Two Podcast, host John Kampas welcomes Nick Stavropoulos to discuss bridging the talent gap in technology, particularly in the context of managed service providers (MSPs). As we celebrate the 25th year of EMPIST, Nick shares his insights on hiring and retaining IT professionals and examining the challenges faced by various industries such as law firms and manufacturing companies.

Nick emphasizes the importance of understanding industry-specific technicalities and regulations for successful IT hiring, while exploring the pitfalls of traditional IT support structures. The conversation delves into the evolving role of IT, from basic user support to strategic partnerships that include cybersecurity, innovation, and foresight.

Furthermore, the episode addresses the unique challenges small and medium-sized businesses encounter when it comes to attracting and retaining top-tier tech talent. Nick highlights the significance of company culture and tailored recruitment processes, providing valuable advice for businesses seeking to build robust internal IT teams.

Nick also discusses the benefits of outsourcing to MSPs for enhanced risk management, comprehensive technological expertise, and operational efficiency. With a focus on the future, this episode offers a roadmap for businesses to upskill and elevate their tech talent in 2025 and beyond.

Join EMPIST’s CEO John Kampas and Technical Account Managers Eric Pitts and Bryan Timm as they dive deep into the essentials of IT planning. Discover strategies to future-proof your business, optimize your tech investments, and some avoidable pitfalls that many business owners face. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a business leader, this podcast has the insights you need to stay ahead.

Welcome back to Tech One, Two! In our first episode of the new season; John Kampas (CEO of EMPIST) and Nick Stavropoulos (CFO of EMPIST) discuss Section 179 tax code deductions, who it might be useful for and how it can benefit your business.