Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Uncle Marv welcomes Kathleen Lord, Chief Revenue Officer at Zensai, to the show live from Pax8 Beyond in Denver. They dive into why compliance is broken and how MSPs can bridge the gap between technology implementation and user adoption. Kathleen explains how Zensai’s learning management system, built natively into Microsoft Teams, makes training simple, scalable, and cost-effective for both MSPs and their clients. The conversation covers everything from pricing and ease of use to the power of training as a tool for customer engagement and retention. Kathleen also shares her journey from SaaS pioneer to Zensai, highlighting the importance of making solutions easy for MSPs to sell and use.

Why Listen:

• Kathleen Lord’s unique SaaS and SMB expertise
• Training as a tool for MSP growth and customer retention
• Simple, effective learning management inside Microsoft
• Affordable pricing and easy administration
• Opportunities to expand services and re-engage clients

Kathleen Lord (Kathleen Lord on LinkedIn) is the Chief Revenue Officer at Zensai, a Danish company with a strong presence in the US and Europe. With over 20 years of experience in SaaS, SMB, and learning management, Kathleen is passionate about making training simple, effective, and scalable for MSPs and their clients. She is a frequent LinkedIn contributor and a recognized leader in the tech and compliance space.

• Website: https://www.zensai.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenlord

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• Pax8: https://www.pax8.com
• Skilljar: https://www.skilljar.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
• 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

Ever wondered what it’s like to face a client who suddenly wants to pay less—while secretly discovering they’ve already shopped around and found your rates are actually half the competition? Uncle Marv shares a jaw-dropping story about pricing, client loyalty, and the emotional rollercoaster of running an IT business. 

Should you run DHCP on a server, a firewall, or both? Uncle Marv breaks down the pros and cons, shares real-world examples, and debates the best practices with listeners in the chat. Whether you’re a solo tech or managing a team, his insights will help you navigate the tricky waters of network design and client expectations.

Plus, find out why chocolate just doesn’t cut it as swag—and what really impresses a seasoned MSP. 

Why Listen:

• Real pricing pain points and solutions
• Expert advice on DHCP placement
• Industry news: Synchro’s universal billing
• ConnectWise malware warnings
• Florida Man alligator adventure

News:

• Syncro Announces Universal Billing: https://em8k.short.gy/1qiTP9
• Attackers User ConnectWise Installers as Malware: https://em8k.short.gy/v6eGSE
• Florida Man Wakes to Alligator in Pool: https://em8k.short.gy/iuPMn9

Companies & Products

• Synchro XMM Platform: https://www.synchro.com
• ConnectWise (ScreenConnect): https://www.connectwise.com
• Microsoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/365
• Proofpoint: https://www.proofpoint.com
• Bit Titan MigrationWiz: https://www.bittitan.com
• Clio: https://www.clio.com
• Practice Panther: https://www.practicepanther.com
• Amicus: https://www.amicusattorney.com
• Time Matters & PC Law: https://pclawtimematters.com/
• CenrerStack: https://www.centrestack.com/
• Zorus: https://www.zorus.com
• Amazon Prime Day: https://amzn.to/4noQmWM

=== 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

Ever wonder how to secure remote access without costly VPNs? DefensX’s new ZTNA product is designed for MSPs and enterprises, offering granular control and flexible deployment. Dave Maik explains why their approach is different—and why MSPs are raving about the ability to mix and match features to fit client needs. 

Why Listen:

• Hear the story behind DefensX’s Innovator Vendor of the Year award
• Explore new ZTNA and browser security features
• Learn how DefensX supports MSPs with easy, flexible integrations
• Gain actionable advice for protecting against AI and browser-based attacks
• Get inspired by real-world success stories from the MSP community

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned: 

• DefensX – https://www.defensx.com
• Pax8 – https://www.pax8.com
• Microsoft Copilot – https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-copilot
• Halo (MSP platform) – https://www.halopsa.com
• Rewst – https://rewst.io/

=== SPONSORS

• 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

=== 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

In this episode of the IT Business Podcast, host Uncle Marv welcomes Frank DeLuca from The CTO Agency to discuss the challenges and opportunities in running an IT service business. Frank shares his journey from running a BBS at 13 to founding his own MSP, highlighting the importance of adapting to client needs and staying current with technology trends. 

The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Uncle Marv launches into a fiery rant about vendor-MSP relationships, sparked by a frustrating interaction with a young sales representative. This leads to a broader discussion on the changing landscape of IT services, including the push for long-term contracts and the need for better "rules of engagement" between vendors and MSPs. 

Frank and Uncle Marv dive into the complexities of selling cybersecurity solutions, particularly to insurance companies and law firms. They explore strategies for bundling services and the challenges of educating clients on the necessity of robust security measures. 

The episode wraps up with the popular "Florida Man" segment, featuring a shocking story about a Santa Claus impersonator arrested for child pornography, and a discussion on the technologies used to combat such crimes.

Guest Bio:

Frank DeLuca is the founder of The CTO Agency, an IT service provider specializing in professional services and insurance clients. With over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, Frank brings a wealth of knowledge on running a boutique MSP.

Links and Websites: 

1. Vote for the 2024 Podcast Awards: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/survey/2024-podcast-awards/
2. The CTO Agency - https://www.thectoagency.com/
3. Florida 'Santa' Sentenced in Child Pornography Case:  https://tinyurl.com/mrynffcu
4. SonicWall and CrowdStrike Join Forces: https://tinyurl.com/3xfcn3rz
5. SonicWall - www.sonicwall.com
6. CrowdStrike - www.crowdstrike.com
7. Sentinel One - www.sentinelone.com
8. Sophos - www.sophos.com

=== 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 Richie Wade, Manager of Sales Engineering at DNSFilter, to explore the cutting-edge world of DNS security. Richie shares insights on how DNSFilter is leveraging AI to detect threats up to 7 days faster than traditional methods, catching 70% of threats with their in-house solution. 

The conversation dives into DNSFilter's recent integrations with major PSAs like ConnectWise and Datto Autotask, aimed at streamlining workflows for MSPs. Richie explains how these integrations minimize administrative workload and improve billing accuracy. 

Uncle Marv and Richie also discuss the changing cybersecurity landscape, with Richie revealing a 14% increase in malware and a 36% overall increase in threats on their network this year alone. They emphasize that organizations of all sizes are potential targets, debunking the myth that only large enterprises are at risk. 

The podcast touches on DNSFilter's unique features, including on-demand categorization of new domains and the ability to block newly registered domains. Richie also previews upcoming features like URL filtering and hints at more MSP-focused integrations in the pipeline. 

Towards the end, they discuss DNSFilter's upcoming annual security report and the importance of staying ahead of emerging cyber threats. The episode wraps up with a teaser about DNSFilter's pricing changes and new features coming in the new year.

=== Websites and Links Mentioned: 

• DNSFIlter Announces Integration with Six Leading PSA Platforms: https://tinyurl.com/5n6ck2z8
• Rise in Malicious Domains: https://tinyurl.com/3m95kzff
• DNSFilter - https://www.dnsfilter.com
• SuperOps - https://superops.com/
• ConnectWise - https://www.connectwise.com
• Datto Autotask - https://www.datto.com
• Pulseway - https://www.pulseway.com
• Halo - https://halopsa.com/
• N-Able - https://www.n-able.com/
• Syncro - https://www.syncromsp.com
• AppRiver - https://www.appriver.com
• Rewst - https://rewst.io/

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE: Envato Elements Item 

This license certificate documents a license to use the item listed below on a non-exclusive, commercial, worldwide and revokable basis, for one Single Use for this Registered Project. 

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

For any queries related to this license please contact Envato Support via https://help.elements.envato.com/hc/en-us/requests/new or Envato Elements Pty Ltd (ABN 87 613 824 258) PO Box 16122, Collins St West, VIC 8007, Australia

=== 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 Zach Kromkowski, co-founder and CEO of Senteon, and winner of the 2024 IT Nation Pitch It competition. Zach kicks things off by sharing his recent transition to van life, discussing the challenges and goals behind this lifestyle change, including plans to visit MSP partners across the country. 

The conversation shifts to the state of MSP conferences, with Zach offering his perspective on the increasing number and scale of events. He emphasizes the importance of lowering barriers for innovative startups to participate and suggests more focused, skill-based conference tracks. 

Zach then dives into Senteon's journey, from its inception as an EDR platform to its current focus on automated system hardening based on CIS benchmarks. He discusses the pivots the company made, the importance of market research, and how the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly aided their development process. 

The episode wraps up with a discussion on the complexities of system hardening, highlighting the depth of knowledge required and the value of automated solutions in this space.

Links and Websites: 

1. Senteon - https://senteon.co/
2. ConnectWise - https://www.connectwise.com/
3. Liongard - https://www.liongard.com/
4. Compliance Scorecard - https://compliancescorecard.com/
5. Florida Man Puts on Helmet; Intentionally Crashes into USAA Building: https://tinyurl.com/4yruecbp
6. Zach Previous Appearance on the IT Business Podcast: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/672

=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE: Envato Elements Item 

This license certificate documents a license to use the item listed below on a non-exclusive, commercial, worldwide and revokable basis, for one Single Use for this Registered Project. 

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

For any queries related to this license please contact Envato Support via https://help.elements.envato.com/hc/en-us/requests/new or Envato Elements Pty Ltd (ABN 87 613 824 258) PO Box 16122, Collins St West, VIC 8007, Australia

=== 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

Listeners will be engaged by Marv's storytelling as he recounts a recent incident involving a $300,000 ransomware attack faced by a client due to poor security practices. He discusses how the lack of proper protections led to devastating consequences and stresses the significance of adopting a zero-trust framework. 

Marv outlines three core principles: 

1. never trust, always verify
2. least privilege access
3. assume a breach.

He also shares insights from his own client interactions, illustrating the challenges of implementing these principles in real-world scenarios. Additionally, Marv provides updates on upcoming shows, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday previews, encouraging listeners to explore valuable tech products for the holiday season

Websites and Links: 

• *** Vote for the 2024 Podcast Awards: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/survey
• ThreatLocker: https://www.threatlocker.com/
• Black Friday Amazon Live with Eric Pinto: https://www.youtube.com/live/xCdVY_CWUOs?si=UWVsuza6N2plQwMo
• Black Friday Amazon Live with Dawn Sizer: https://www.youtube.com/live/pNNgytMlNEI?si=JEjczLwCmOenn6iK

People Mentioned for Shout Outs

• Eric Pinto
• Dawn Sizer
• Erin Lawrence

=== 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 Paco Lebron, an MSP from the Chicago area and the mastermind behind MSP Unplugged. Paco shares his experience switching from Syncro to SuperOps about a year ago, shedding light on the reasons behind the move and the improvements he's seen. Paco discusses the early days of SuperOps, addressing some of the marketing controversies that initially surrounded the company. He emphasizes how SuperOps has since transformed its image and focused on community-first initiatives. 

The conversation dives into the key factors that led Paco to make the switch, including improved transparency in ticket management, real-time updates, and enhanced efficiency. Paco highlights SuperOps' user-friendly interface, responsive support, and commitment to continuous improvement as standout features. Uncle Marv and Paco also touch on areas where SuperOps is still developing, such as CRM functionality and sales automation. Paco, as a member of the SuperOps Advisory Board, provides insights into upcoming features and improvements without breaking any NDAs. 

The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of choosing the right tools for your MSP and being open to change when necessary. It's a must-listen for MSPs considering a platform switch or looking to stay informed about the latest developments in the industry.

Websites and Links: 

1. SuperOps - http://itbusinesspodcast.com/superops
2. Syncro - https://syncromsp.com/
3. ProdigyTeks - https://www.prodigyteks.com/
4. N-Able - https://www.n-able.com/
5. Datto - https://www.datto.com/
6. Kaseya - https://www.kaseya.com/
7. PC Matic - https://www.pcmatic.com/
8. Pax8 - https://www.pax8.com/

People Mentioned: 

1. Juan Fernandez
2. Emily Glass
3. Troy
4. Ian Alexander
5. Richard
6. John Dubinsky
7. Cramer Snuggs
8. Gene Kim
9. Andy Cormier

=== 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 delivers a mix of personal updates, industry news, and a surprising announcement. He kicks off by discussing his recent collaboration with Mike Smith on a client project in Fort Lauderdale, highlighting the benefits of his office space for out-of-town IT professionals. 

Marv then dives into cybersecurity awareness, sharing details about an upcoming training session he's conducting for a client. He discusses his approach to the training, including the use of informative videos and explanations of security measures like ThreatLocker and multi-factor authentication. The podcast covers recent industry news, including reports from Cujo AI and Keeper Security about the state of cybersecurity threats. Marv also touches on Kaseya's announcement of free hardware for Datto Siris, discussing its potential impact on MSPs and their clients. 

The episode's highlight is Marv's revelation that he's been approved as media personnel for the upcoming Florida Man Games in March 2025. He expresses his excitement and asks listeners for ideas on how to cover this unique event. Marv wraps up with two Florida Man stories, including a lawsuit against Netflix over streaming issues and a dramatic python-alligator rescue in the Everglades. He concludes with reflections on his recent experience as a subcontractor, offering insights into the perspective it provided.

Websites and Links:

• Amazon Live: https://www.amazon.com/live
• Easy Cater: https://www.ezcater.com/
• Florida Man Sues Netflix Over Tyson-Paul Fight: https://tinyurl.com/3944smkc
• Florida Man Saves Alligator from Monster Python: https://tinyurl.com/49t5rt56

People Mentioned for Shoutouts: 

• Mike Smith
• Michael Smith Jr.
• Dawn Sizer
• Erin Lawrence
• Jay McBain
• Frank DiBenedetto

=== 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

In this action-packed episode, Uncle Marv sits down with Rob Rae, the self-proclaimed "godfather of the channel" from Pax8, to discuss the recent ConnectWise partnership announcement and the new Voyager partner program. Rob dishes on the reasoning behind credit card surcharges and how Pax8 is investing in better tools and experiences for MSPs. The conversation takes a fun turn as they debate the merits of rappers versus a cappella groups for tech conference entertainment. 

Next up, Mark Ralls, president of Auvik, joins the show to talk about their network monitoring and management tool designed specifically for MSPs. Mark highlights Auvik's standout feature - its network mapping capabilities - and how it integrates seamlessly with ConnectWise to provide frictionless IT solutions. He also teases their new NorthStar feature, which helps technicians visualize and troubleshoot network issues more effectively. 

Both guests offer valuable insights into the evolving MSP landscape, upcoming industry events, and the importance of creating exceptional experiences for partners and clients alike. 

Guest Bios:

• Rob Rae: SVP of Business Development at Pax8, known for his energetic presence and deep understanding of the MSP ecosystem.
• Mark Ralls: President at Auvik, bringing extensive experience in network management solutions tailored for MSPs.

Websites Mentioned: 

• Pax8: https://www.pax8.com
• Auvik: https://www.auvik.com
• ConnectWise: https://www.connectwise.com

People Mentioned for Shout Outs: 

• Flo Rida
• Ludacris
• Nelly
• Snoop Dogg
• Fatboy Slim
• Pentatonix
• Kenny G

=== 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