Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast (Products, stories, and tips for the MSP and IT Professional)

Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast (Products, stories, and tips for the MSP and IT Professional)

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Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast (Products, stories, and tips for the MSP and IT Professional) episodes

  • Identity First Security For MSPs (EP 990)

    Mike Wise runs Clockwork Networks as a one-man MSP, and he’s doing it intentionally. This wasn’t about staying small because he had to—it’s about building a business around efficiency, standardization, and control. We talked through how he niched into tax professionals and compliance-heavy clients, and how that decision simplified everything from tooling to service delivery.

    We also got into security, specifically identity-first approaches and passkeys. Mike shared how leaning into Microsoft Entra ID and eliminating passwords has helped prevent real-world attacks. This is one of those conversations that challenges the idea that growth always means hiring more people. Sometimes growth means doing less, better.

    Chapters: 

    • 00:00 Opening, conference recap, and swag winner
    • 07:07 ThreatLocker, sponsors, and event takeaways
    • 13:31 Introducing Mike Wise and Clockwork Networks
    • 20:27 Solo MSP by choice and staying intentionally small
    • 25:09 Finding a profitable niche with tax pros and compliance-heavy clients
    • 30:36 Compliance realities, WISPs, and non‑negotiables for clients
    • 36:10 Pricing, “all‑in” services, backups, and where MSPs leave money on the table
    • 39:23 Standardizing tools, Entra ID, and identity‑first security
    • 43:16 Passkeys, Evil Jinx, and stopping modern phishing attacks
    • 49:15 Building and running the “Nerd Cave” MSP peer group
    • 55:47 Final security mindset takeaways and closing remarks
    • Guests: Mike Wise, Clockwork Networks

      • Website: https://clockworknetworks.com
      • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thatmikewise/
      • Florida Man Stories

        • Naked Florida man robs meat market wearing only a face covering: https://linkly.link/2gcOQ
        • Florida Man hides in tanning bed after trying to set gym on fire: https://linkly.link/2gcOR
        • Birthday Suite Bandie - Naked man arrested trying to break into house: https://linkly.link/2gcOS
        • N-Able Empower 26 News

          • https://www.n-able.com/press/press-releases/n-able-makes-uem-ai-native-with-mcp-server-launch
          • https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260414320263/en/N-able-Accelerates-Recovery-Time-After-Critical-Events-with-Disaster-Recovery-as-a-Service
          • Shout-outs

            • Mary Katherine Revels, N-able: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-katherine-revels-9913b3119/
            • Kim Ceccini, N-able: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-cecchini/
            • Tiffany Bova, Salesforce / Author: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanibova/
            • Vikram Ramesh, N-able: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikramesh/
            • Marcus Hutchins, Security Researcher: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malwaretech/
            • Mike DePalma, OpenText: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldepalma1/
            • Jason Miller, Unbound Digital: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-miller-32a03530/
            • Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

              • OpenText: https://www.opentext.com
              • Unbound Digital: https://unbounddigital.com
              • Microsoft (Entra ID / Microsoft 365 / OneDrive / SharePoint): https://www.microsoft.com
              • Salesforce: https://www.salesforce.com
              • Gartner: https://www.gartner.com
              • Business Wire: https://www.businesswire.com
              • Simply Wall St: https://simplywall.st
              • === SPONSORS: 

                • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                  • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo 
                  • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                  • Author Username: AlexanderRufire 
                  • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                  • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                    🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                    🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                    🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                    ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                    If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                    1 hr 5 min
                  • When Your Service Manager Leaves (989)

                    We dig into how their MSP quietly turned into a “ticket factory” where work piled up, documentation was thin, and a 20‑year employee held way too much tribal knowledge. From there, Dawn and Dave break down the specific steps they took to fix it: rebuilding processes, enforcing documentation standards, killing weak level one roles, focusing on root cause analysis, and putting real accountability around metrics like reopen rates and first‑time resolution. By the end, you’ll hear a practical roadmap for turning chaos into a more predictable, proactive IT services operation.

                    Why Listen

                    • Learn how to move beyond “ticket counts” and start tracking metrics that actually improve service, like reopen rates and first‑touch resolution.
                    • Hear how they used root cause analysis on every ticket to permanently reduce recurring issues instead of just closing the same problems over and over.
                    • See why they removed weak level one roles and shifted to an experienced‑engineer model to improve client satisfaction and reduce internal friction.
                    • Chapters

                      • 00:00 Welcome, why this episode is more of a hangout
                      • 02:10 Dawn & Dave arrive in “the land south of Orlando” and first impressions
                      • 05:20 Miami flight story, travel quirks, and meeting Iggy the Iguana
                      • 09:45 Enable Empower event and Dawn’s packed “ticket factory” session
                      • 13:30 The terrible year: losing a 20‑year employee and uncovering the mess
                      • 18:40 House of cards: tribal knowledge, weak processes, and no visibility
                      • 24:55 Accountability as the word of the year and culture shake‑up
                      • 30:20 Turning a ticket factory into an intelligence engine with root cause on every ticket
                      • 36:10 Rebuilding documentation, change management, and standards the team actually uses
                      • 43:30 Eliminating level ones, client reactions, and lessons for MSP owners
                      • Guests

                        • Dawn Sizer, 3rd Element Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-sizer/
                        • Dave Sizer, 3rd Element Consulting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sizer/
                        • Website: https://3rdelementconsulting.com/
                        • Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                          • N-Able Empower Conference: https://empower.n-able.com/
                          • EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/
                          • Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel: https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/fort-lauderdale
                          • === SPONSORS: 

                            • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                            • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                            • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                            • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                            • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                            • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                              • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
                              • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                              • Author Username: AlexanderRufire
                              • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                              • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                47 min
                              • Stop Selling Security Backwards (EP 988)

                                In this conversation with Tim Coach from Cynomi, I pull back the curtain on what it really takes for MSPs to offer vCISO, cybersecurity, and compliance services that actually make money instead of creating headaches. We talk about how to move beyond buzzwords, use the right tools, and turn security conversations into long-term, high-value relationships with your clients.

                                Why listen

                                • Learn how Cynomi helps MSPs deliver repeatable vCISO and cyber risk services without hiring a full-time CISO.
                                • Hear practical ways to position cybersecurity, compliance, and risk assessments so business owners actually engage.
                                • Chapters

                                  • 00:15 Welcome back and why Tim is in studio
                                  • 02:19 Who is Tim Coach and what is Cynomi?
                                  • 02:46 Florida move, St. Pete life, and “Florida man” stories
                                  • 07:52 Driving Alligator Alley and road‑warrior life
                                  • 10:12 Radio, streaming apps, and paying for content
                                  • 16:17 Binge‑watching, sports, and how we consume media
                                  • 21:01 Fast‑paced sports, soccer, and cricket detour
                                  • 25:00 Shifting gears into tech and Cynomi at Empower
                                  • 25:10 What Cynomi does for MSPs and weekly community calls
                                  • 26:33 New public API, PSA integration, and reducing labor
                                  • 27:36 AI agents in Cynomi and scaling CISO‑level insight
                                  • 29:46 Turning security into business language clients understand
                                  • 31:34 Selling MFA and security as risk and revenue protection
                                  • 34:20 Regulations, Ohio example, and why baselines matter
                                  • 35:11 MSP security standards vs. NIST, CIS, and government frameworks
                                  • 36:07 How many MSPs are actually following frameworks?
                                  • 37:11 Uncle Marv’s two‑tier security model and “minimum CSF”
                                  • 38:32 Standardizing on a few frameworks so you don’t lose money
                                  • 40:08 Stop selling, start consulting, and being the expert in the room
                                  • Guest: Tim Coach, Cynomi

                                    • https://www.cynomi.com
                                    • LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-coach
                                    • Companies / vendors / products mentioned

                                      • N-Able Empower Conference: https://empower.n-able.com/
                                      • Ring (doorbell / app): https://ring.com
                                      • Reddit: https://www.reddit.com
                                      • SiriusXM: https://www.siriusxm.com
                                      • iHeartRadio (iHeart): https://www.iheart.com
                                      • Spotify: https://www.spotify.com
                                      • NFL Red Zone: https://www.nfl.com/redzone
                                      • KVJ Morning Show (The KVJ Show): https://www.kvjshow.com
                                      • WRMF (97.9 WRMF): https://www.wrmf.com
                                      • Bubba the Love Sponge: https://www.bubbaarmyradio.com
                                      • F1 (Formula 1): https://www.formula1.com
                                      • === SPONSORS: 

                                        • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                        • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                        • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                        • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                        • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                        • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                          • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
                                          • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                          • Author Username: AlexanderRufire
                                          • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                          • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                            🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                            🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                            🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                            ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                            If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                            57 min
                                          • What MSPs Miss on Every Network (EP 987)

                                            This episode is all about the gap between what we say we're delivering and what's really happening on our clients' networks. I brought in Frank Raimondi of IGI Cybersecurity to make the case for a proactive, left-of-boom approach to cybersecurity — treating network health the way a doctor treats a patient: ongoing monitoring, honest conversations, and a real duty of care. Whether you're dealing with noisy alerts, nervous about what a scan might turn up, or trying to figure out where AI fits into your security stack, Frank and I gave you the straight talk you need to hear.

                                            Chapters

                                            • 00:14 Welcome and Episode Setup
                                            • 00:26 Why Cyber Hygiene, Patching, and Pen Testing Still Fail
                                            • 01:10 Introducing Guest Frank Raimondi from IGI Cybersecurity / Nodeware
                                            • 02:00 Nodeware Updates: PCI DSS and New Third‑Party App Patching
                                            • 02:31 Defining Cyber Hygiene and “Left of Boom” for MSPs
                                            • 03:43 Knowing Every Device: Network Visibility and Exploitable Surfaces
                                            • 05:39 Tools, Network Monitoring, and Real‑World MSP Use Cases
                                            • 07:40 Patch Management Gaps and Third‑Party Application Vulnerabilities
                                            • 09:09 Where MSPs Fall Short and the “Ostrich in the Sand” Problem
                                            • 12:11 Is It the Tools, the Process, or the People? Tough Love for MSPs
                                            • 15:09 Health Analogy: Vulnerability Management vs. Pen Testing
                                            • 17:31 Duty of Care, Client Risk, and MSP Responsibility
                                            • 21:07 Firing Bad Clients, Co‑Managed Environments, and Open RDP
                                            • 24:08 Getting Clear in MSAs, SOWs, and What You Really Cover
                                            • 25:38 AI as the Next Battlefield and New Internal Attack Surfaces
                                            • 26:25 Frank’s Journey into Security and the Channel
                                            • 28:32 Looking 12–24 Months Ahead for MSP Security and AI
                                            • 30:38 Closing Thoughts, Events, and How to Connect with Frank
                                            • Guest: Frank Raimondi

                                              • IGI Cybersecurity https://www.igicybersecurity.com 
                                              • Nodeware: https://nodeware.com
                                              • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankraimondi
                                              • Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                • Domotz: https://www.domotz.com
                                                • Auvik: https://www.auvik.com
                                                • MSP Summit (event): https://channelpartnersconference.com/
                                                • Gemini (Google Gemini AI): https://gemini.google.com
                                                • ChatGPT (OpenAI): https://chat.openai.com
                                                • === SPONSORS: 

                                                  • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                  • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                  • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                  • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                  • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                  • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                    • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo 
                                                    • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                    • Author Username: AlexanderRufire 
                                                    • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                    • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                      🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                      🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                      🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                      ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                      If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                      33 min
                                                    • Building a Smarter MSP with Rick Harber (986)

                                                      If you’re buried in tickets, tools, and “urgent” alerts, this conversation with Rick Harber will feel like a lifeline. We unpack how he’s using automation, AI, and Liongard to triage tickets in six seconds, protect margins, and manage by exception instead of chaos.

                                                      • Learn how Rick’s team cut ticket triage from 10 minutes to about six seconds using automation and AI in ConnectWise.
                                                      • Get practical examples of “managing by exception” with dashboards and SLAs so you focus on the 5% of work that’s truly off the rails.
                                                      • Discover why process beats talent and how to standardize your MSP so growth doesn’t break your service delivery.
                                                      • Chapters

                                                        • 00:58 Setting the Stage: Smarter, More Profitable MSPs
                                                        • 03:41 Conference Updates & Fort Lauderdale Invite
                                                        • 03:57 NetAlly LinkRunner 1500 Update & Honest Mini‑Review
                                                        • 10:05 Milestone Announcement – IT Business Podcast Show #1000
                                                        • 11:59 Guest Intro – Rick Harber of Decision Digital
                                                        • 13:45 Why Liongard Matters for MSPs (Alerts, Billing, Visibility)
                                                        • 20:09 Real‑World Liongard Stories: Firewall & DNS “Saves”
                                                        • 28:37 Process Beats Talent: Growing an MSP Without Hero Techs
                                                        • 45:12 Where MSPs Go Wrong with Automation and AI
                                                        • 52:42 “Bleeding Internally” – Why AI and Automation Can’t Wait
                                                        • 1:00:18 Managing by Exception – Focusing on Outliers, Not Every Ticket
                                                        • 1:05:03 Customer Experience, SLAs, and the One Ticket That Matters
                                                        • 1:05:35 Florida Man Stories & Respecting Florida Wildlife
                                                        • 1:09:23 Closing Thoughts, How to Reach Rick, and Upcoming Events
                                                        • Guest: Rick Harber, Decision Digital

                                                          • Website: https://www.decisiondigital.com
                                                          • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardharber
                                                          • Florida Man

                                                            • Tourists haul dead alligator across Central Florida: https://linkly.link/2g4oo
                                                            • Teen arrested after videos allegedly show him kicking and swinging a baby alligator: https://linkly.link/2g4op
                                                            • Shout-outs

                                                              • Michelle Accardi, Liongard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleaccardi/
                                                              • Joe Alapat, Liongard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joealapat
                                                              • Peter Kujawa, Service Leadership / MSP industry leader: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterkujawa
                                                              • Matt Rainey, Podnutz Pro alum
                                                              • Martin Obando, Podnutz Pro alum
                                                              • Jared Kasner, Blacksmith Infosec: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredmcasner/
                                                              • Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                                • ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.com
                                                                • WatchGuard (firewall referenced by name): https://www.watchguard.com
                                                                • HubSpot: https://www.hubspot.com
                                                                • IT Glue: https://www.itglue.com
                                                                • Hudu: https://hudu.com
                                                                • BrightGauge: https://www.brightgauge.com
                                                                • N-able Empower Conference: https://empower.n-able.com/event/2026/summary
                                                                • MSPGeekCon: https://mspgeekcon.com
                                                                • ChannelPro: https://www.channelpronetwork.com
                                                                • ACES Conference (Apple-focused ACES event): https://acesconf.com
                                                                • Podnutz Pro (original show name): https://podnutz.com
                                                                • === SPONSORS: 

                                                                  • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                                  • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                                  • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                                  • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                                  • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                                  • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                                    • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
                                                                    • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                                    • Author Username: AlexanderRufire
                                                                    • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                                    • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                                      🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                                      🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                                      🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                                      ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                                      If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                                      1 hr 12 min
                                                                    • Turning Compliance into MSP Revenue (EP 985)

                                                                      If you’ve ever stared at NIST, CIS, or SOC 2 requirements and thought, “Where do I even start?”, this episode is for you. Jared Casner from Blacksmith InfoSec joins me to break compliance out of the checkbox trap and show MSPs how to turn security frameworks into real, billable services your clients will actually value. We cover practical steps, real stories, and a simple way to talk about compliance without scaring or confusing your customers.

                                                                      Chapters

                                                                      • 00:00 Welcome, conference recap, and setup
                                                                      • 00:48 Running into Jared at MSP IT Expo
                                                                      • 03:02 Sessions vs. vendor hall and MSP show strategy
                                                                      • 06:11 Talking to non‑MSPs and sharpening the value pitch
                                                                      • 09:59 Who is Blacksmith InfoSec and what they do
                                                                      • 12:13 Frameworks first: NIST CSF, CIS, and mapping to compliance
                                                                      • 17:30 Security as a long‑term investment, not a quick fix
                                                                      • 24:26 What MSPs should prioritize now: third‑party and supply chain risk
                                                                      • 31:41 Monetizing compliance and packaging MSP services
                                                                      • 36:26 Turning compliance into projects, shared responsibility with clients
                                                                      • Guests

                                                                        • Blacksmith InfoSec: https://blacksmithinfosec.com
                                                                        • Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                                          • MSP IT Expo (MSP EXPO / ITEXPO in Fort Lauderdale): https://www.mspexpo.com
                                                                          • Omni Hotel (Omni Hotels & Resorts): https://www.omnihotels.com
                                                                          • NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF): https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework
                                                                          • CIS Controls (Center for Internet Security): https://www.cisecurity.org
                                                                          • CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification): https://dodcio.defense.gov/CMMC
                                                                          • HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act): https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa
                                                                          • FTC Safeguards Rule: https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/ftc-safeguards-rule-what-your-business-needs-know
                                                                          • Florida Bar: https://www.floridabar.org
                                                                          • Axios Breach: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-31/axios-software-tool-used-by-millions-compromised-in-hack
                                                                          • NPM (Node Package Manager): https://www.npmjs.com
                                                                          • Get NIST‑y (podcast by Blacksmith InfoSec): https://blacksmithinfosec.com/nisty
                                                                          • EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System): https://www.eosworldwide.com
                                                                          • Pumpkin Plan (business framework): https://pumpkinplan.com
                                                                          • === SPONSORS: 

                                                                            • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                                            • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                                            • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                                            • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                                            • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                                            • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                                              • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo 
                                                                              • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                                              • Author Username: AlexanderRufire 
                                                                              • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                                              • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                                                🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                                                🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                                                🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                                                ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                                                If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                                                44 min
                                                                              • Building a Security‑First MSP With Jerem (EP 984)

                                                                                If you’ve ever felt stuck between vendor noise, compliance pressure, and clients who only see you as “the computer guy,” this conversation is for you. Jerem and I dig into culture, cybersecurity, AI, and backup design—plus the uncomfortable stuff like staff training and saying no to shiny tools—so you can run a calmer, more profitable MSP.

                                                                                Chapters

                                                                                • 00:00 Intro – Live show setup and community update for Jason
                                                                                • 04:46 Sponsor Segment – ThreatLocker, NetAlly, OneStream, TruGrid
                                                                                • 07:56 Guest Intro – Meet Jerem Morris and Datatek in Mesa, Arizona
                                                                                • 10:20 Building Datatek – Referral-only growth and people‑first IT
                                                                                • 12:16 From Tech to Business Owner – Early lessons and first hire
                                                                                • 14:32 Shifting to Security‑First – Becoming a true technology partner
                                                                                • 19:20 Deep Client Relationships – No client‑facing tickets and more QBRs
                                                                                • 29:36 Training & AI Guardrails – Staff education, AI policy, and user training
                                                                                • 36:21 Backup Strategy – Beyond 3‑2‑1 with Synology and layered recovery
                                                                                • 44:12 Tool Stack & Future of AI – Avoiding shiny objects and preparing MSPs for AI
                                                                                • Guests: Jerem Morris

                                                                                  • Datatek Website: https://datatekaz.com 
                                                                                  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremmorris
                                                                                  • Shout-outs: 

                                                                                    • Jason Percival, NEPA Geeks: https://www.nepageeks.com
                                                                                    • Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                                                      • NEPA Geeks: https://www.nepageeks.com
                                                                                      • Synology: https://www.synology.com
                                                                                      • Microsoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365
                                                                                      • Microsoft Copilot: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-copilot
                                                                                      • ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com
                                                                                      • Arizona Tech Week (Mesa): https://www.aztechweekmesa.com
                                                                                      • Boeing: https://www.boeing.com
                                                                                      • Meta (Meta Platforms): https://about.meta.com
                                                                                      • Netgear: https://www.netgear.com
                                                                                      • === SPONSORS: 

                                                                                        • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                                                        • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                                                        • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                                                        • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                                                        • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                                                        • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                                                          • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo 
                                                                                          • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                                                          • Author Username: AlexanderRufire 
                                                                                          • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                                                          • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                                                            🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                                                            🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                                                            🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                                                            ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                                                            If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                                                            53 min
                                                                                          • Selling MSP Services Without “Selling” (983)

                                                                                            Most MSPs say they’re “relationship‑driven,” but Laura Jeter has turned that into a repeatable sales engine inside a large national managed services organization. In our conversation, she shares real‑world stories from enterprise deals, lessons from working with global vendors, and the exact research‑first habits she expects from her sales team before they ever book a meeting. If you’re tired of being seen as a cost center instead of a strategic IT partner, you’ll want to steal a few pages from her playbook.

                                                                                            === Time Stamps

                                                                                            • 00:24 Meet Laura Jeter from Vector Security Networks
                                                                                            • 03:10 What Vector Security Networks Does Nationally
                                                                                            • 06:45 Co‑Managed IT and Partnering with Other MSPs
                                                                                            • 10:03 Laura’s Journey from Mainframes to MSP Sales
                                                                                            • 14:40 Why Most MSPs Struggle with Sales
                                                                                            • 18:00 Selling Outcomes, Not Line‑Item IT Services
                                                                                            • 21:14 Better Discovery: Questions That Actually Land Deals
                                                                                            • 24:05 Finding the Right Prospects and Ideal Clients
                                                                                            • 29:48 Using LinkedIn Sales Navigator and Research in Sales
                                                                                            • 36:24 Following Clients When They Change Jobs
                                                                                            • 40:01 Building a Strong Sales Engine Inside an MSP
                                                                                            • == Guest

                                                                                              • Laura Jeter, Vector Security Networks (Director of Sales, Managed Network Services): https://www.vectorsecuritynetworks.com
                                                                                              • === Shout-outs

                                                                                                • MSP Association of America: https://www.mspassociation.com/
                                                                                                • === Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                                                                  • LinkedIn Sales Navigator: https://www.linkedin.com/sales
                                                                                                  • ZoomInfo: https://www.zoominfo.com
                                                                                                  • IT Expo: https://www.itexpo.com
                                                                                                  • MSP Expo: https://www.mspexpo.com
                                                                                                  • === SPONSORS: 

                                                                                                    • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                                                                    • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                                                                    • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                                                                    • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                                                                    • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                                                                    • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                                                                      • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
                                                                                                      • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                                                                      • Author Username: AlexanderRufire
                                                                                                      • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                                                                      • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                                                                        🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                                                                        🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                                                                        🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                                                                        ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                                                                        If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                                                                        48 min
                                                                                                      • Zero Trust, Conferences, and Swag (982)

                                                                                                        If you’ve ever had a client’s “other vendor” show up, hit a wall with your security tools, and then blame IT, this episode is for you. I share fresh stories from the field on using ThreatLocker to enforce guardrails, manage AI agents and VPN tools like Tailscale, and keep control of your 365 tenant and endpoints while still letting clients get work done. Then we shift into my recap of Channel Pro Defend and ThreatLocker’s Zero Trust World, talk cyber insurance requirements, hardened RMM and identity controls, and yes—take a fun detour into the best swag, socks, hats, and gear I picked up along the way.

                                                                                                        Florida Man - ATM “jackpotting” mastermind: https://linkly.link/2eWRW

                                                                                                        === Chapters

                                                                                                        • 01:37 MB Systems Updates & How ThreatLocker Changes the Security Conversation
                                                                                                        • 11:02 Vendor Pushback, Client Guardrails, and AI/VPN Tools Under Zero Trust
                                                                                                        • 18:23 Why These Conferences: ChannelPro Defend, Zero Trust World, and Travel Load
                                                                                                        • 21:24 Zero Trust as the Default Security Model & From Theory to Execution
                                                                                                        • 24:52 Building Your Stack Around Real Incidents, Labs, and Cyber Hero Training
                                                                                                        • 28:14 ChannelPro Defend: Security, Profitability, and Bourbon Icebreaker Panel
                                                                                                        • 31:16 Networking Wins, Quotes from Griffin IT & Bell Tech, and MSP–Vendor Mix
                                                                                                        • 32:15 Swag Philosophy Shift: Food, Socks, Shirts, Hats, Pens, Tiles, and Mugs
                                                                                                        • 44:48 Studio Plans, Episode 1,000 Milestone, and Supporting the Show
                                                                                                        • 48:59 Florida Man ATM Jackpotting Story & Closing the Episode
                                                                                                        • === Shout-Outs

                                                                                                          • Danny Jenkins, ThreatLocker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyjenkinscyber/
                                                                                                          • Brian Weiss, iTech Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjweiss/
                                                                                                          • Reagan Roney, SolvereOne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reaganroney/
                                                                                                          • Marissa Maldonado, Proda Technology: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissamaldonadoproda/
                                                                                                          • Frank Marino, Forthright Technology Partners: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankmerino/
                                                                                                          • Bradley Gross, Attorney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleygross/
                                                                                                          • Matthew Dwyer, Griffin IT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-dwyer-bb968b36/
                                                                                                          • Ali Johnston, BelTech Services: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-johnston-a38a27220/
                                                                                                          • === Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                                                                            • Super Whisper: https://superwhisper.com/
                                                                                                            • Tailscale: https://tailscale.com
                                                                                                            • Microsoft 365 (M365): https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365
                                                                                                            • MSP Channel: https://msp-channel.com
                                                                                                            • Acronis: https://www.acronis.com
                                                                                                            • Channel Pro Defend (Channel Pro Network): https://events.channelpronetwork.com/in-person-events/
                                                                                                            • Zero Trust World (ThreatLocker event): https://ztw.com/
                                                                                                            • NinjaOne: https://www.ninjaone.com
                                                                                                            • Zaun: https://zaun.ai
                                                                                                            • Cork / Cork Cyber: https://www.corkinc.com
                                                                                                            • Infima: https://www.infimasec.com
                                                                                                            • Cavelo: https://www.cavelo.com/
                                                                                                            • Monjur: https://monjur.com/
                                                                                                            • Kipling Secure: https://kiplingsecure.ai/
                                                                                                            • Kaseya: https://www.kaseya.com
                                                                                                            • Life360 Tile Tracker: https://amzn.to/3NDYq91
                                                                                                            • N-able: https://www.n-able.com
                                                                                                            • MSP Process: https://mspprocess.com
                                                                                                            • === SPONSORS: 

                                                                                                              • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                                                                              • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                                                                              • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                                                                              • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                                                                              • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                                                                              • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                                                                                • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
                                                                                                                • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                                                                                • Author Username: AlexanderRufire
                                                                                                                • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                                                                                • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                                                                                  🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                                                                                  🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                                                                                  🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                                                                                  ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                                                                                  If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                                                                                  53 min
                                                                                                                • Delaware Just Raised Your Cyber Risk (981)

                                                                                                                  This one’s a game changer. A single court ruling just made it easier for customers and insurers to come after MSPs after a breach—and harder for you to get out of it. If you haven’t looked at your contracts and security stack lately, now’s the time.

                                                                                                                  === Why Listen

                                                                                                                  • Breakdown of the Delaware Supreme Court decision and why it matters
                                                                                                                  • How one breach can turn into multi-client litigation
                                                                                                                  • Why cyber insurance carriers (like Travelers) are coming after MSPs
                                                                                                                  • The shift from “best practices” to legal standards (MFA, encryption, patching)
                                                                                                                  • Contract gaps that could expose your business
                                                                                                                  • Practical steps to reduce liability today
                                                                                                                  • === Companies / Vendors / Products Mentioned

                                                                                                                    • Delaware Supreme Court Ruling: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/downloads/delaware-travelers-blackbaud/
                                                                                                                    • Travelers (Travelers Insurance): https://www.travelers.com​
                                                                                                                    • Blackbaud: https://www.blackbaud.com​
                                                                                                                    • Delaware Supreme Court: https://courts.delaware.gov​
                                                                                                                    • === Chapters

                                                                                                                      • 00:00 Introduction
                                                                                                                      • 01:42 What happened in the Blackbaud case
                                                                                                                      • 02:33 The big legal shifts MSPs need to know
                                                                                                                      • 04:31 Courts are defining ‘commercially reasonable security’
                                                                                                                      • 06:23 Cost and insurance implications
                                                                                                                      • 08:30 What MSPs should fix in their contracts
                                                                                                                      • 11:26 What MSPs should fix in their security stack
                                                                                                                      • 14:08 Bottom line
                                                                                                                      • === SPONSORS: 

                                                                                                                        • Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
                                                                                                                        • Technology Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
                                                                                                                        • Technology Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
                                                                                                                        • Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
                                                                                                                        • Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready
                                                                                                                        • === SHOW MUSIC: 

                                                                                                                          • Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo 
                                                                                                                          • Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
                                                                                                                          • Author Username: AlexanderRufire 
                                                                                                                          • Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
                                                                                                                          • === Connect with Uncle Marv

                                                                                                                            🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
                                                                                                                            🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
                                                                                                                            🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
                                                                                                                            ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

                                                                                                                            If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.

                                                                                                                            17 min

                                                                                                                          About Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast (Products, stories, and tips for the MSP and IT Professional)

                                                                                                                          From the publisher's feed

                                                                                                                          The IT Business Podcast is a show for MSPs (Managed Service Providers) and IT Professionals providing business network support and managed services.

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