Uncle Marv welcomes John Helms, Director of Product Management for Cybersecurity at ConnectWise, to discuss the latest in MSP security at IT Nation Connect. They cover ConnectWise’s new SIEM—available in Essentials and Pro versions—tailored for MSPs who need either basic monitoring or full-scale integration. John explains how ConnectWise leverages Elastic Security for a seamless, scalable solution, keeping all security tools in one place for MSPs.

John’s career journey is a highlight, tracing his path from early ISP technician to leading product management at ConnectWise. He shares stories about the evolution of IT, the challenges of product management, and the importance of direct feedback from MSPs and engineers. The conversation also touches on the impact of remote work on security, the creative solutions MSPs are building, and the value of keeping everything in a single console. 

=== Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• ConnectWise – connectwise.com
• Microsoft – microsoft.com
• Pax8 – pax8.com
• Elastic Security – elastic.co/security
• ASIO Platform (ConnectWise ASIO) – connectwise.com/platforms/asio

=== SPONSORS

• Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
• Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
• Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
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=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Ever feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle to keep your clients—and your MSP—safe from cyber threats? In this episode, Uncle Marv sits down with MacKenzie Brown from Blackpoint Cyber to talk about the real-world challenges and opportunities facing MSPs today.

MacKenzie shares how Blackpoint’s Compass One platform is changing the game, giving MSPs a unified view of their security posture and helping them justify investments to clients. She also introduces MDR Essentials, a new, affordable option for MSPs who want to get started with advanced protection.

“Compass One is really the unified platform to fix more proactive left of boom, asset management, vulnerability scanning, but also in this multi-tenancy hybrid ecosystem world that MSPs are working with.”

The conversation turns to the latest threats—fake CAPTCHA, SSL VPN compromise, and malicious ScreenConnect installs—and how Blackpoint’s threat intelligence team is working to keep MSPs ahead of attackers. MacKenzie and Uncle Marv discuss the growing risk of liability for MSPs who fail to secure client environments, and why it’s more important than ever to have tough conversations with clients about security.

They also explore the trend toward vendor agnosticism and the need for MSPs to standardize their tool stacks. Whether you’re a small MSP or a large one, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice to help you protect your business and your clients.

=== Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• Blackpoint Cyber – https://blackpointcyber.com/
• Pax8 – pax8.com
• ThreatLocker – https://www.threatlocker.com/
• Huntress – https://www.huntress.com/
• CrowdStrike – https://www.crowdstrike.com/en-us/
• SentinelOne – https://www.sentinelone.com/
• SonicWall – sonicwall.com
• Fortinet – https://www.fortinet.com/
• Palo Alto Networks – https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/
• Veeam – https://www.veeam.com/

=== SPONSORS

• Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
• Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
• Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
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• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
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=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Uncle Marv sits down with Liam Downward, co-founder and chief product officer of Cyrisma, at IT Nation Connect in Orlando. Liam shares his candid journey from MSP owner to cybersecurity innovator, revealing the pain points that inspired Cyrisma’s creation: tool overload, shrinking margins, and the need for affordable, accessible security. The discussion dives into how Cyrisma consolidates vulnerability management, data classification, dark web monitoring, and compliance into a single platform—helping MSPs increase efficiency and profitability.

Key topics include strategies for increasing revenue without raising prices, the importance of defensibility in contracts, and how to turn risk visibility into a selling point. Liam also shares his thoughts on American sports, the business of soccer, and why Florida’s heat is a beast of its own. Whether you’re an MSP owner or IT professional, you’ll find actionable insights and a fresh perspective on thriving in a competitive market.

=== Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• Cyrisma- https://cyrisma.com
• RapidFire ToolsProduct- https://www.rapidfiretools.com
• Acronis- https://www.acronis.com
• Inter Miami CF- https://www.intermiamicf.com
• LA Galaxy- https://www.lagalaxy.com
• CISA- https://www.cisa.gov

=== SPONSORS

• Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
• Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
• Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
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• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
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=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Lynn Williams of ASCII joins Uncle Marv live from IT Nation Secure 2025 for her first-ever podcast appearance, sharing stories from the heart of the IT community. Hear about the latest ConnectWise innovations, the impact of ASCII’s Taste of Success events, and why building relationships is the secret weapon for MSPs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of IT.

IT Nation Secure 2025 Highlights: Uncle Marv recaps the conference’s biggest announcements, including ConnectWise’s new endpoint management and security solution, SIEM updates, and the launch of PSA powered by ASIO.

ASCII Group & Community Building: Lynn Williams shares the ASCII Group’s mission, the impact of Taste of Success and Edge events, and the value of building community among MSPs and IT leaders.

ConnectWise, Microsoft, and Pax8 Partnership: A new turnkey solution for MSPs is unveiled, integrating Microsoft 365, ConnectWise RMM Pro, and more, streamlining security and operations for small business clients.

Leadership & Industry Recognition: Shout-outs to ASCII’s leadership, including Alan Weinberger, and recognition of key partners and event sponsors. 

=== Conference News

• Connectwise Launches Next Evolution of SIEM: https://rebrand.ly/ldflga1
• ConnectWise, Microsoft, and Pax8 Launch Cybersecurity and Endpoint Management: https://rebrand.ly/i9zlio8
• ConnectWise Launches PSA Powered by Asio and ConnectWise Pro: https://rebrand.ly/q93ue6a

=== Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• ConnectWise – connectwise.com
• Pax8 – pax8.com
• ASCII Group – ascii.com
• Brad Gross (Speaker, Taste of Success) – bradgross.com
• Channel Hunters – channelhunters.com
• ConnectWise RMM Pro – https://www.connectwise.com/platform/pro
• ConnectWise PSA – connectwise.com/platform/psa

=== SPONSORS

• Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
• Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
• Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

This episode dives deep into the recent DragonForce ransomware attack that targeted an MSP using the SimpleHelp RMM tool, compromising both the provider and its clients. Uncle Marv is joined by Dave Sobel, host of MSP Radio and The Business of Tech podcast, to analyze what went wrong and how MSPs can avoid similar fates. The conversation covers the critical importance of patching known vulnerabilities, the risks of on-premises RMM tools, and the shift toward cloud-based solutions for reducing attack surfaces.

Dave Sobel highlights the aggressive tactics of DragonForce, their ransomware-as-a-service business model, and why attackers are increasingly exploiting RMM tools. The episode also explores the concept of zero trust, the need for managed detection and response, and the legal risks MSPs face when failing to meet modern security standards. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on improving cyber hygiene, rethinking persistent remote access, and evolving their security frameworks to keep up with today’s threats.

=== Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• MSP Radio / The Business of Tech Podcast: https://www.businessof.tech
• SimpleHelp (RMM): https://simple-help.com
• Datto RMM: https://www.datto.com/products/rmm
• N-Able (formerly SolarWinds MSP): https://www.n-able.com
• AnyDesk: https://anydesk.com
• Atera: https://www.atera.com
• MeshAgent: https://meshcentral.com/meshagent.html
• NetSupport Manager: https://www.netsupportmanager.com
• QuickAssist (Microsoft): https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/quick-assist
• ScreenConnect (now ConnectWise Control): https://www.connectwise.com/software/control
• Splashtop: https://www.splashtop.com
• TeamViewer: https://www.teamviewer.com
• Sophos: https://www.sophos.com
• CrowdStrike: https://www.crowdstrike.com
• Proofpoint: https://www.proofpoint.com
• Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Uncle Marv welcomes back Lisa Shorr, a leading authority on personal branding and client experience for IT businesses, for a lively and insightful discussion on video meeting etiquette. After breaking down the latest cybersecurity threats, the conversation shifts to the “new normal” of remote and hybrid work, where your camera is your connection to clients and colleagues.

Lisa explains why turning your camera on is non-negotiable, how to create a professional (yet authentic) background, and why leaders must model the behaviors they want their teams to follow. She shares coaching tips for helping technical staff shine on screen, discusses the impact of nonverbal cues, and reveals how intentional presence builds trust, loyalty, and long-term business growth.

The episode is packed with actionable tips, relatable stories (yes, including pajama pants on Zoom!), and a reminder that every video call is a chance to build—or lose—business. Lisa also previews her book, “Your Brand Unleashed,” and upcoming talks at IT Nation Secure and PAX8 Beyond. The show closes with a classic Florida Man story and a call to action for MSPs to lead by example, on and off camera.

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned: 

• Shorr Success – https://shorrsuccess.com/
• Your Brand Unleashed (Book by Lisa Shorr) – https://amzn.to/43QzIHB
• Secure Future Tech Solutions – https://www.securefuturetech.com/
• ConnectWise / IT Nation Secure –https://www.connectwise.com/it-nation/secure
• PAX8 Beyond – https://www.pax8beyond.com/
• Bitdefender – https://www.bitdefender.com/
• ThreatLocker – https://www.threatlocker.com/
• Huntress – https://www.huntress.com/
• Logitech StreamCam – https://amzn.to/4mxDnBD
• Blue Yeti Nano Microphone – https://amzn.to/3Z8LyKC

Florida Man and News:

• Florida Man survives alligator, only to be fatally shot by deputies: https://rb.gy/av6vj9
• Microsoft Windows Warning - Do Not Install These Apps: https://rb.gy/f0n77x
• Massive Login and Password Leak: https://rb.gy/0cokhx

=== SPONSORS

• Premier Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
• Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmz
• Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
• Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
• Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
• Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSQ4kIIBbRQ

=== 

Join Uncle Marv and Rob Rae as they preview Pax8 Beyond 2025, the can’t-miss conference for managed service providers. Rob shares the inside story of how this event has grown into a global phenomenon, with plans for expansion into Europe and Southeast Asia. Listeners get a sneak peek at the conference’s unique approach: tailored education tracks for every MSP persona, a commitment to neutral, value-driven content, and a focus on real-world business growth.

Rob also addresses the challenges of scaling a fast-growing company, the importance of transparency, and the need for vendors to “jump in the pit” with their partners during tough times. From the excitement of a sold-out venue to the anticipation of surprise musical guests and high-profile keynotes, this episode captures the energy, honesty, and innovation that set Pax8 Beyond apart.

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned: 

• Pax8 – https://www.pax8.com
• Pax8 Beyond – https://www.pax8beyond.com
• Datto – https://www.datto.com
• Liongard – https://www.liongard.com
• ScalePad – https://www.scalepad.com
• Gradient MSP – https://www.meetgradient.com
• Enable – https://www.n-able.com
• Level Platforms (historical, now part of AVG) – https://www.avg.com
• Kaseya – https://www.kaseya.com
• Silverback (acquired by Dell) – https://www.dell.com
• Microsoft – https://www.microsoft.com

=== SPONSORS

• Premier Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Uncle Marv welcomes Syncro’s CEO Michael George and Chief Product Officer Dee Zepf for an in-depth conversation about the all-new XMM platform. Listeners get an insider’s look at how Syncro is addressing the biggest pain points for MSPs—integrating Microsoft 365 management, automating security baselines, and streamlining workflows within a single pane of glass. Michael and Dee share their journey from Continuum to Syncro, the risks and rewards of betting big on innovation, and how their partner-first approach is reshaping the MSP landscape.

Key topics include Syncro’s unique per-technician pricing, the impact of private equity on MSP tools, and the technical challenges of building seamless Microsoft integrations. Dee explains how XMM delivers direct, multi-tenant 365 management, automated secure score monitoring, and CIS-aligned security baselines—all without the hassle of juggling multiple tools. The episode also covers Syncro’s AI-powered features, network discovery, and partnerships with industry leaders like Domotz and Splashtop.

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned: 

• Check Out Syncro MSP: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/syncro
• Microsoft 365: microsoft.com/microsoft-365
• Domotz: domotz.com
• Splashtop: splashtop.com
• ConnectWise: connectwise.com
• N-able: n-able.com
• NinjaOne: ninjaone.com
• HaloPSA: halopsa.com

=== SPONSORS

• Premier Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Uncle Marv sits down with Nancy Henriquez, CEO of Sibyl Consulting Group and a force for change in the MSP community. Nancy shares her journey from launching a break-fix shop at 22, building and selling her own MSP, working with SuperOps, and finally founding Sibyl Consulting. She explains the origin of her company’s name, rooted in Greek mythology, and how her consulting approach is anything but conventional.

Nancy discusses why she rejects cookie-cutter strategies, focusing instead on helping MSPs align their business models with personal values and ideal clients. She shares examples of how personal growth unlocks business growth and details her process for helping clients transition from break-fix to managed services. The conversation covers the importance of self-assessment, redefining success, and why “best practices” are just guidelines—not laws. Nancy also opens up about her own evolution, ongoing training, and her mission to create lasting impact for MSPs and small businesses.

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned:

• Sibyl Consulting Group — https://sibylconsultinggroup.com/
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program — https://www.goldmansachs.com/citizenship/10000-small-businesses/
• Gary Pica’s Program (TruMethods) — https://www.trumethods.com/
• MSP 501 List — https://www.channelfutures.com/msp-501

=== SPONSORS

• Premier Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/ 

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET 
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

Uncle Marv welcomes Nick Shevelyov, former CIO of Silicon Valley Bank and CEO of VCSO.AI, for a masterclass in cybersecurity storytelling and risk management. Nick shares how his unique journey—defending the innovation economy, banking tech giants, and advising boards—led him to write “Cyber War and Peace,” a book that uses analogies from history to make cyber risk relatable and actionable.

Topics Discussed:

• The value of historical analogies in explaining cybersecurity
• Board-level communication: Making cyber risk understandable and actionable
• Managing technical debt and legacy systems in fast-moving environments
• Building observability and setting baselines for network health
• The balance of security and privacy in compliance and operations
• Nick’s favorite exercises and templates for risk management
• How to avoid survivor bias and think holistically about defense
• Upcoming book on cognitive biases and behavioral economics in cyber risk

Key Resources & Links:

• VCSO.AI: https://vcso.ai
• Cyber War and Peace: https://amzn.to/3ZsrPFA
• NACD Technology Risk Guidance: https://www.nacdonline.org
• Diligent Board Platform: https://diligent.com
• CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities: https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog
• FIRST EPSS: https://www.first.org/epss

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE

• Licensee: Marvin Bee
• Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• License Date: January 1st, 2024
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast