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"Winning at Social Media Marketing with Heather Margolis"

In this episode of the WIN Podcast, host Carrie Richardson interviews Heather Margolis, founder of Channel Maven, to uncover her strategies for leveraging social media as a powerful tool in B2B marketing. Heather shares invaluable advice on using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to drive engagement, create impactful campaigns, and generate leads for businesses of all sizes.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Instagram is becoming a B2B powerhouse: “If they're searching on their phone for channel marketing, and then they go to Instagram, I want them to find me,” Heather explains, emphasizing the importance of visibility across platforms.
• The power of affordable social media advertising: “My Instagram budget is about $2,000 a month, including the agency to manage it. If I did that on LinkedIn, it would be $6,000 a month,” she reveals, offering a compelling case for diversifying ad spend.
• Creating high-impact, targeted content: Heather advises, “Your video needs captions that call to your audience. If I’m selling to CMOs, the video and words will say, ‘Are you a CMO in the tech industry?’ It grabs their attention instantly.”
• Tailoring strategies to your audience’s environment: “I scroll Instagram for videos at home, but in a business meeting, I use Threads because I can’t play a video. It’s about knowing your audience and how they consume content,” Heather notes.

Heather also offers actionable insights for managed service providers (MSPs) and other B2B organizations on how to make social media ads work for them:

• Target decision-makers with specific industry-related keywords.
• Utilize simple funnels to convert viewers into leads.
• Balance creativity and analytics for campaign success.

This episode is a must-listen for businesses seeking to enhance their digital marketing strategies while keeping costs in check.

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

WIN More PR Opportunities with Advice from Josh Silvestro

In this episode, host Carrie Richardson is joined by Josh Silvestro, brand ambassador at Command Your Brand, a podcasting agency specializing in helping businesses amplify their voice and connect with the right audiences. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities of podcasting, tips for effective public relations, and the secret to creating engaging content that converts.

Key Takeaways:

1. Why Storytelling Matters in Podcasting
   • Build genuine connections with your audience by sharing your authentic journey.
   • Avoid polarizing topics; focus on relatable and inspiring content.
2. Overcoming Podcasting Fears
   • Learn to embrace mistakes and use them as stepping stones for growth.
   • Practice and preparation are key to becoming a confident speaker.
3. The ROI of Podcasting
   • Understand how guest appearances on niche podcasts can lead to unexpected opportunities.
   • Repurpose podcast content into blog posts, social media clips, and more to maximize value.
4. Creating a Personal Brand Through Public Relations
   • People buy from people, not businesses. Focus on showcasing your unique expertise.
   • Start small but strategic by targeting niche audiences and growing from there.

Quotes from the Episode:

• "People buy from people, not businesses." – Josh Silvestro
• "Podcasting is not just about being heard; it's about building trust and visibility." – Carrie Richardson

Actionable Tips:

1. Start by clarifying your niche and target audience.
2. Use platforms like YouTube or podcast networks to explore similar content for inspiration.
3. Don’t underestimate the power of repurposing podcast content across channels.

Technology Tip:
Leverage AI tools to analyze transcripts, generate content, and identify key insights to streamline your podcast marketing efforts.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Visit Command Your Brand to learn more about their services.
• Book a call with Josh or the Command Your Brand team at CommandYourBrand.com/bookacall

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of What's Important Now, host Carrie Richardson sits down with Andrew Moore, founder of Ridgeview Advisors, to dive deep into the concept of "Operationalizing Trust" in the managed services provider (MSP) industry. 

Andrew shares insights on how scaling trust is critical for MSPs and how it directly impacts profitability, client satisfaction, and business scalability. Andrew recounts his journey from his early days in IT to becoming a COO and now running his own consultancy.

From practical sales strategies, cost of client acquisition, to the art of expectation management, this episode is packed with actionable advice for business owners looking to optimize their operations and build long-lasting client relationships. Whether you're an MSP owner, entrepreneur, or simply interested in operational efficiency, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

1. Operationalizing Trust: Scaling trust beyond the owner and embedding it into sales, operations, and client management.
2. Cost of Acquisition: The importance of knowing your numbers to improve profitability.
3. Expectation Management: How clear contracts and upfront communication can save relationships and margins.
4. Scaling MSPs: From hiring the right salespeople to implementing scalable processes, Andrew shares what worked (and didn’t) during his time scaling an MSP from 8 to 65 employees.
5. The Power of Letting Go: Why business owners need to trust their teams to grow effectively.

Quotes from Andrew Moore:

• "If you operationalize trust, you’re not just selling a service — you're creating a system that scales trust across your entire business."
• "Understanding your cost of client acquisition is crucial. Most MSPs don't have a handle on these numbers, and it’s a game-changer."
• "Expectation management isn't just a service strategy; it's a business survival skill."

Connect with Andrew Moore:

• Website: Ridgeview Advisors
• LinkedIn: Andrew Moore

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

Host Carrie Richardson sits down with Mike Ita, founder and CEO of IT Corps, a managed service provider based in Ohio. Mike shares his inspiring journey from a general IT consultant to a highly successful niche business specializing in IT services for veterinary practices. He talks about the challenges and triumphs of carving out a unique space in the market, his strategies for building lasting relationships, and how IT Corps adapted to industry changes driven by private equity and cloud-based technologies. This is a must-listen episode for entrepreneurs, IT professionals, and anyone looking to specialize their business in a competitive industry.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:00:29] Mike's start in IT Corps after a business partnership fallout.
• [00:01:44] How a sick cat led Mike to discover his veterinary niche.
• [00:03:41] Early challenges in acquiring veterinary clients and the breakthrough at the Midwest Veterinary Conference.
• [00:05:52] Mike's transition from attending events to speaking at them and gaining more clients.
• [00:07:45] The explosive growth of IT Corps' veterinary client base after a successful conference.
• [00:10:17] How private equity acquisitions of veterinary practices impact his business.
• [00:14:33] Telemedicine opportunities in veterinary practices and Mike’s attempt to break into the market.
• [00:18:12] Carrie and Mike discuss niche specialization and pricing strategies in IT services.
• [00:26:47] The importance of maintaining personal relationships with clients and Mike’s approach to customer retention.

Notable Guest Quotes:

• "I realized I loved working with veterinary clinics—they’re appreciative, and the relationships are just better." – Mike Ita
• "People love their pets, and they’re willing to pay for the best care, including making sure their systems work efficiently." – Mike Ita
• "Specialists can charge whatever they want. If you’re a specialist in veterinary IT support, you set the price." – Carrie Richardson

Guest Information: Mike Ita is the founder and CEO of IT Corps, a managed service provider that focuses exclusively on veterinary practices. With years of experience in various industries, Mike pivoted to specialize in veterinary IT services, helping clinics manage their IT infrastructure more efficiently. He’s a frequent speaker at industry events and has been featured in Channel Pro magazine for his innovative approach to niche IT services.

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

Winning Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining Top Talent in the MSP Space

In this episode of WIN (What's Important Now), host Carrie Richardson talks with repeat guest John Ahlberg, the CEO of Waident Technology Solutions. 

They explore Waident's successful strategies for recruiting and retaining talent, especially in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry. 

John explains the importance of a people-first culture, work-life balance, and a unique hiring process that emphasizes culture fit, talent, and experience over traditional qualifications. He also shares insights on maintaining flexibility, providing opportunities for employee development, and avoiding the pitfalls of settling for less-than-ideal candidates.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:45 Recruiting and Retaining Talent

01:48 Flexible Work Culture

03:44 Onboarding and Training

04:08 Encouraging Innovation and Change

06:36 Hiring for Culture and Weirdness

10:09 Transparent Job Postings and Interview Process

16:59 Advice for MSPs on Hiring

19:17 Conclusion and Farewell

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

Daryl D'Souza, Co-Founder of Technique

In this episode of the WIN podcast, host Carrie Richardson sits down with Daryl D’Souza, managing partner at Technique, a managed IT services provider based in Toronto, Canada.

Daryl shares his unique approach to signing two to three new clients monthly while working only two to three hours a day.

He discusses the importance of providing free value, building trust, and leveraging LinkedIn automation tools and Loom videos to connect with prospects.

Daryl also delves into the challenges and rewards of focusing on business outcomes rather than just tech stacks, his plans for expanding Technique, and maintaining a work-life balance.

He provides actionable insights on the importance of defining company values, recruitment strategies, and ensuring a seamless client onboarding process.

Tune in to WIN and try Daryl's process in your own business!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:21 Daryl's Unique Client Acquisition Strategy

01:42 The Importance of Providing Value

02:35 Leveraging Tools for Efficiency

03:48 Building Trust and Relationships

06:00 Challenges and Adaptations

10:27 Future Plans and Business Growth

20:21 Recruitment and Company Culture

23:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

In this compelling episode, Carrie Richardson interviews Justin Breen, a master connector who spends his days linking some of the world's most brilliant and misunderstood visionaries. Justin delves deep into the world of high EQ and IQ individuals—those rare few who are focused on creating lasting legacies rather than just building empires. Through his unique perspective, Justin shares how he identifies and connects these visionaries, allowing them to amplify their impact on the world.

Whether you're a visionary yourself or someone who wants to better understand the mindset of those who are changing the world, this episode is packed with insights. Justin also discusses the importance of tools like the Kolbe Index and how it helps visionaries understand their strengths and weaknesses, leading to greater alignment and success.

Episode Highlights:

• Connecting Visionaries: How Justin identifies and links some of the world's most misunderstood geniuses.
• Building Legacies vs. Empires: Why true visionaries focus on purpose over profit.
• The Kolbe Index: Understanding how your brain takes action and why it matters.
• Embracing Misunderstanding: The pain and power of being a misunderstood visionary.
• Family and Vision: Justin's reflections on raising children with a visionary mindset.

Notable Quotes:

• "Empires destroy. Legacies build."
• "Visionaries are not afraid of risk—they're not afraid of anything."
• "To be great is to be misunderstood."

Guest Information:

Justin Breen is a visionary connector, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to linking high EQ and IQ individuals who are focused on making a significant impact on the world. He is the founder of the Epic Fit Network, where he creates environments for these rare individuals to connect and collaborate.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Kolbe Index: kolbe.com
• Epic Fit Network: TheEpicFit.com
• Justin Breen's Books: Coming soon - "Epic Journey"

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of "What's Important Now," host Carrie Richardson sits down with Kirk Halpern, the visionary behind Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors. Kirk shares his remarkable journey from practicing law to becoming a major player in the meat and seafood industry. With a passion for supporting small farmers and fishermen, Kirk's latest venture aims to deliver the freshest products while making a positive impact on the community. Tune in to hear about his innovative sourcing strategies, redemption stories, and valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Episode Highlights:

• Kirk's transition from law to the meat and seafood industry
• The growth and success of Buckhead Beef Company and Halpern's Purveyors
• The birth of Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors and its mission
• Innovative sourcing and supply chain strategies for fresh seafood
• Supporting local businesses and redemption stories
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and understanding J curves in business

Guest Quotes:

• "I wanted to work and have an impact on small farmers and small fishermen individuals who with love and passion utilize their hands and their heart to grow catch you name it wonderful products and bring them into the marketplace."
• "Adversity reveals character, and my team showed it."
• "Your value is your coachability and your work ethic."

Guest Information:

• Name: Kirk Halpern
• Company: Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors
• Website: Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors
• Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram

Read more here:  https://foxcrowgroup.com/blog/sales-coaching/

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

In this engaging episode of the WIN podcast, host Carrie Richardson sits down with Michelle Accardi, the dynamic CEO of LionGard.

They discuss Michelle's unique approach to leadership, the importance of working in your flow state, and how LionGard is making strides in the cybersecurity industry. Michelle shares insights into the transition of leadership from LionGard’s founder Joe Alapat, the company’s core values, and the significance of urgency in achieving business goals. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on growth, the challenges of running a business, and the exciting upcoming event, RoarCon.

Episode Highlights:

• Michelle Accardi discusses the transition of leadership at LionGard and the impact of founder Joe Alapat’s vision.
• The concept of working in your "10X" or flow state and its importance in business success.
• LionGard's journey to becoming a full-fledged cybersecurity company.
• The introduction of a new core value at LionGard: a sense of urgency.
• Details about RoarCon, LionGard's first major event, and its significance.
• Michelle’s personal insights on growth, leadership, and maintaining a positive mindset.
• The importance of building relationships and networks in the MSP community.

Guest Quotes:

• "If you ask a fish to climb a tree, you're not going to get very far. Put people where their talents are best served." - Michelle Accardi
• "Being in your flow state means doing activities that are easy and fun, bringing out the best in yourself." - Michelle Accardi
• "We’re a cybersecurity company with a cyber risk dashboard that shows cyber posture tied to cyber insurance controls." - Michelle Accardi
• "I love to grow the business. That's what excites me." - Michelle Accardi

Links and Resources Mentioned in the Show:

• LionGard
• RoarCon Event Details
• Keynote Speaker: Eric O'Neill
• Mentioned Companies: Pax8, NTIVA, The Purple Guys, Ergos, Meriplex
• MSP CFO

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us Fan Mail

 From Sprint to CEO: Rob Senatore’s Journey with Data2Go Wireless

In this episode of the WIN podcast, host Carrie Richardson interviews Rob Senatore, CEO of Data2Go Wireless. 

Rob shares his inspiring journey from being a sales rep at Sprint to becoming the CEO of a thriving wireless company. He discusses the pivotal moments, challenges, and lessons learned along the way, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Rob emphasizes the importance of adaptability, team building, and strategic planning in achieving business success.

Episode Highlights:

• Early Career at Sprint: Rob's experience as a sales rep and the influence of small business clients.
• Taking the Plunge: The decision to leave Sprint and start his own business with his wife’s support.
• Major Breakthrough: Involvement in New York City's taxi and limo commission technology upgrade.
• Birth of Data2Go Wireless: Developing a software platform to unify multiple wireless carriers.
• Challenges and Lessons: Early struggles with variable charge items and the importance of prepaid billing engines.
• Financial Wisdom: The value of clean books, strategic budgeting, and transitioning from an LLC to a C Corp.
• Leadership and Team Building: Importance of surrounding oneself with a strong team and trusting their expertise.
• Future Growth: Plans for Data2Go Wireless, including new products and strategic partnerships.

Guest Quotes:

• “You have to process the information correctly. But once you process it... you just have to go with it.”
• “Every mistake that you create for yourself or that you have to go through is going to bring you closer to the goal.”
• “The only thing that's for sure is that things will change and that you have to roll with the punches.”

Guest Information:

• Name: Rob Senatore
• Title: CEO of Data2Go Wireless
• Company Website: Data2Go Wireless

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

They are the co-founders of Fox & Crow Group, a software development company building growth platforms for MSP and IT channel businesses.

Learn more at:

Fox & Crow Group - the MSP Sales Process platform and all-in-one CRM solution 

Fox & Crow Instinct - the MSP Decision Intelligence Platform for IT Channel Vendors

Fox & Crow Jackdaw - Competitive Intelligence Reports on Demand for MSP businesses

 
Book time with Carrie here!

Be a guest on WIN!  We host MSP channel founders, executives and sales and marketing leaders who are willing to share advice with other IT channel firms on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.