In this engaging episode, Uncle Marv and MacKenzie Brown explore the critical role of threat intelligence in modern cybersecurity. MacKenzie explains the dual nature of her role at Blackpoint Cyber, balancing threat research with enabling their SOC team to respond effectively to cyber threats. She emphasizes the importance of understanding both academic and real-world threat intelligence and how MSPs can leverage this knowledge to protect their clients better.

MacKenzie introduces the concept of the democratization of threat intelligence, advocating for making threat intelligence more accessible and actionable for MSPs. She highlights the challenges MSPs face, such as limited resources and the need to educate clients on the importance of cybersecurity. The conversation also touches on the necessity of having strong, supportive vendor partnerships that provide actionable intelligence and not just tools. MacKenzie shares her personal experiences and insights from her career, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of IT and cybersecurity.

Key Takeaways:

1. Dual Role at Blackpoint Cyber: MacKenzie balances threat research and enabling SOC operations.
2. Democratization of Threat Intelligence: Making threat intelligence accessible and actionable for MSPs.
3. Academic vs. Real-World Threat Intelligence: Understanding the difference and its applicability.
4. Challenges for MSPs: Limited resources and the need for client education.
5. Vendor Partnerships: Importance of having supportive vendors that provide actionable intelligence.
6. Proactive vs. Reactive Security: Shifting focus from reactive to proactive security measures.
7. Importance of Basic Security Practices: Emphasizing fundamental security controls.
8. Cybersecurity Misconceptions: Addressing the misconception that MSPs don't understand security.
9. Cost of Cybersecurity: Discussing the financial challenges and the need for affordable solutions.
10. Future of Cybersecurity: Insights into the evolving landscape and the role of MSPs.

Links:

Florida Mom Accused of Screwing Nail into Daughter's Buttocks: https://tinyurl.com/muh7chhj

Vuori Clothing (MacKenzie's Favorite Leggings): https://vuoriclothing.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://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Rob Rae, known as the "godfather of the channel," shares insights from his extensive experience in the MSP industry. He discusses the significance of building relationships and fostering community within the IT sector, emphasizing how these factors contribute to long-term business success. Rae reflects on his early experiences with ASCII events and how they shaped his understanding of the MSP community.

The conversation explores the changing nature of technology consumption, influenced by the pandemic and the preferences of younger generations. Rae highlights the shift towards marketplace models and the importance of adapting to new buying behaviors. He also touches on Pax8's recent and upcoming events, including Beyond 2023 in Denver and the upcoming Beyond Berlin, showcasing the company's growth and international expansion.

Key Takeaways:

• Community building is crucial in the MSP industry
• The pandemic and younger generations are driving changes in technology consumption
• Marketplaces are becoming increasingly important in the IT sector
• Face-to-face relationships still hold value in the MSP world
• The lifetime value of contracts through MSPs is significantly higher than direct vendor sales
• The MSP industry is experiencing substantial growth, with predictions of billion-dollar MSPs in the near future
• Balancing professionalism with approachability is important in business interactions
• International expansion is a key focus for major players in the MSP space

Links:

ASCII Edge - The MSP Conference: https://events.ascii.com/

Pax8: https://www.pax8.com/en-us/

=== Show Information

Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/

Host: Marvin Bee

Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ

Become a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

In this episode, Ted and Woody explain the functionality of Uncompromized, which provides identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and internet privacy for individuals. They detail how the service allows MSPs to invite clients to subscribe easily, offering them immediate monitoring and protection against identity theft. The discussion also touches on the significance of scrubbing personal information from data broker sites, a feature that sets Uncompromized apart from traditional identity protection services. Ted and Woody share insights on the user-friendly nature of the service, its cost-effectiveness, and how it can help MSPs expand their service offerings while enhancing their clients' security posture.

Key takeaways from the episode include the ease of onboarding for clients, the importance of protecting employees' personal data, and the potential for MSPs to generate revenue through this service. The conversation underscores the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the need for MSPs to adapt and provide comprehensive solutions that address the challenges posed by remote work and increased digital threats.

Key Takeaways

• Uncompromized offers identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and internet privacy for individuals.
• The service is easy to deploy and requires no complex installations.
• MSPs can invite clients to subscribe, providing immediate monitoring and protection.
• The product helps scrub personal information from data broker sites.
• MSPs can earn revenue as employees pay for the service over time.
• Uncompromized is designed to enhance security for remote workers and their families.

=== Show Information

Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/

Host: Marvin Bee

Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ

Become a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Uncle Marv sits down with Dori Spade, who has over 17 years of experience in the MSP industry, having worked with MSPs ranging from $8 million to over $100 million in value. Dori discusses her transition from managing MSPs to founding Call to Action, a consulting firm that helps MSPs navigate common challenges such as role clarity and scaling. She emphasizes that regardless of the size of the MSP, the foundational principles of customer service and technical support remain constant.

Dori also highlights the importance of Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) in maintaining strategic oversight of clients, a practice she refined over her career. She shares insights into the common pitfalls MSPs face, including the lack of clear roles and responsibilities and the challenges of scaling. Dori's current focus is on helping MSPs increase their wins in new business sales by breaking down silos between sales and service teams. She concludes by expressing her admiration for the ASCII organization and her plans to engage more deeply with its community.

Key Takeaways

• Dori Spade has extensive experience in the MSP industry, having worked with both small and large MSPs.
• She founded Call to Action to help MSPs overcome common challenges and achieve success.
• Clear roles and responsibilities are crucial for the efficient operation of MSPs.
• Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) are essential for strategic client management.
• Scaling is a challenge for MSPs of all sizes, requiring tailored strategies for growth.
• Bridging the gap between sales and service teams can lead to increased success in new business sales.
• Dori plans to engage more with the ASCII community and attend future events.

Links:

• Call to Action Website: https://calltoactionllc.com/
• ASCII Edge - The MSP Conference: https://events.ascii.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://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Uncle Marv welcomes Corey Tapper, a new ASCII member and owner of Techevolution, to the IT Business Podcast. Corey shares his experience attending ASCII events over the years before finally becoming a member, citing the emotional impact of seeing Frank Abagnale speak and the valuable networking opportunities.

Techevolution, Corey's company, has been in business for 25 years. It started as a break-fix operation and transitioned to an MSP model about 8-10 years ago. What sets Tech Evolution apart is their ownership of a data center, allowing them to offer full-service technology solutions to their customers. Corey explains that his journey into data center ownership began with a bet to host email and websites on a dial-up connection. Recognizing the potential for recurring revenue, he gradually built out a server room and eventually a full-fledged data center. This unique approach allowed Techevolution to offer services like shared Exchange hosting before it was widely available.

The company serves clients primarily in the New England area for MSP services but has hosting customers worldwide. Corey describes their data center setup, emphasizing their $3 million investment in equipment and infrastructure. They also offer co-location services to other MSPs and companies. Corey highlights the benefits of ASCII membership, particularly the peer groups and the supportive community. He values the ability to seek advice from fellow members and the spirit of collaboration, even among competitors.

Key Takeaways:

• ASCII events provide valuable networking and learning opportunities
• Transitioning from break-fix to MSP model can enhance business stability
• Owning a data center can provide unique service offerings and revenue streams
• Peer support and community are crucial benefits of ASCII membership
• Collaboration among MSPs can lead to mutual growth and success

=== Show Information

Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/

Host: Marvin Bee

Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ

Become a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Uncle Marv begins by interviewing Eric Pinto from SocSoter, who discusses their new reporting platform designed to help MSPs prepare for audits and compliance checks. Pinto emphasizes the importance of providing evidence for services offered to customers, especially in the context of 24/7 coverage.

Next, the host speaks with Dave Cava, partner at Encore Strategic and co-author of "The Pumpkin Plan for Managed Services." Cava shares insights on helping MSPs understand pricing and customer approach strategies. He mentions positive feedback from his presentation, particularly regarding a case study on a $200,000 MSP.

The interview with Nick Wolf from Cork reveals a new partnership with DataStream, a cyber insurance broker. This collaboration allows MSPs to receive instant cyber insurance quotes through the Cork dashboard. Wolf also mentions Cork's participation in upcoming ASCII events and their first presentation at the current event.

Joel Zaidspiner of Channel Pro discusses the publication's role in supporting MSPs and their upcoming events. He highlights the Channel Pro Defend event focusing on cybersecurity, scheduled for August 7th and 8th in New Jersey. Zaidspiner also outlines future events in Charlotte, Dallas, and Los Angeles, each with specific themes such as AI and cybersecurity.

=== Show Information

Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/

Host: Marvin Bee

Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ

Become a monthly supporter: https://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Uncle Marv hosts the IT Business Podcast live from ASCII Edge in Boston, featuring guest Brianna Rubino, Director of Events for the ASCII Group. Brianna shares insights on ASCII's 40th anniversary celebration and the ongoing event series.

The ASCII EDGE event series includes nine events across North America, with eight in the U.S. and one in Canada. Brianna hints at exciting plans for 2025, including new locations for events. The ASCII Cup, set to take place in Tampa Bay, will be a significant celebration featuring an 80s theme and a "Back to the Future" party.

Brianna discusses her role in planning these events and the process of selecting speakers. She emphasizes the mutual benefits for speakers and attendees, as it allows business owners to showcase their knowledge and interact with peers.

The interview touches on Brianna's three-year tenure with ASCII and how the events compare to her previous experiences. She describes the ASCII community as a "traveling circus," highlighting the recurring cast of vendors and members across different cities.

The conversation concludes with a tease about the upcoming ASCII Cup celebration in Tampa, promising a big and amazing event to mark the 40th anniversary.

Key Takeaways:

• ASCII is celebrating its 40th anniversary
• ASCII EDGE series includes 9 events across North America
• ASCII Cup in Tampa Bay will feature an 80s theme
• New event locations planned for 2025
• ASCII events provide networking opportunities for members and vendors
• Brianna Rubino has been with ASCII for 3 years as Director of Events

Links:

• ASCII Edge: https://events.ascii.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://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

In this episode of the IT Business Podcast, Uncle Marv interviews Ann Westerheim from Ekaru at the ASCII EDGE event in Boston. Ann discusses her book "Cybersecurity for Main Street, Cyber Fit in 21 Days," which aims to simplify cybersecurity concepts for small businesses. She emphasizes the importance of basic security measures like multi-factor authentication and explains how her book has led to speaking opportunities.

The conversation examines recent cybersecurity incidents, including the CrowdStrike update issue, and how these events raise awareness among businesses. Ann and Uncle Marv stress the importance of incident response planning and testing, as well as the need for continuous cybersecurity education.

They also discuss the challenges of convincing clients to invest in cybersecurity measures, highlighting the need to frame the conversation in terms of business risk and potential financial impact. The interview concludes with Ann sharing her experiences as an ASCII member and the benefits of attending industry events.

Key Takeaways:

• Simple cybersecurity measures can significantly reduce risks for small businesses
• Recent incidents highlight the importance of cybersecurity awareness and planning
• Framing cybersecurity in terms of business risk helps convince clients to invest
• Continuous education and repetition are crucial for cybersecurity awareness
• Industry events and memberships provide valuable networking and learning opportunities

Links:

• Ann's Company: https://www.ekaru.com/
• Ann's Book "Cyberseurity for Main Street": https://amzn.to/3yhxgNq
• ASCII Edge: https://events.ascii.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://www.patreon.com/join/itbusinesspodcast?

One-Time Donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo

Author: AlexanderRufire

License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024