How do you keep your MSP thriving after selling? The answer lies in the community-driven vision of the MSP Owners Group. Juan Fernandez shares why this model is so different from traditional private equity buyouts—focusing on leaders who want to stay, grow, and mentor the next generation. Discover why Prodigy Techs and Cool Technology are among the first to join, and how this new era of service providers is set to redefine success for MSPs everywhere.

Why Listen:

• Understand the challenges of traditional MSP exits
• See how a new model can preserve your legacy
• Hear real-world examples of MSPs making the leap
• Get inspired to rethink your own business future
• Learn about upcoming opportunities and resources

Guest:
Juan Fernandez is a visionary leader in the MSP industry, known for his commitment to community, leadership, and innovation. As a driving force behind the MSP Owners Group, he is reshaping how MSPs approach ownership transitions, focusing on legacy, empowerment, and long-term success. Juan’s passion for mentoring and building strong teams is evident in his leadership style and the new acquisition model he’s championing.

• Website: https://msp-og.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/1jf/

Companies, Products & Books Mentioned

• MSP Owners Group: https://mspownersgroup.com
• Prodigy Techs: https://prodigytechs.com
• PAX 8 Beyond: https://www.pax8.com/en-us/events/beyond

=== 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

• 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

=== 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

Peter from TruGrid joins Uncle Marv to tackle the myths and realities of RDP security. Peter explains why RDP isn’t the problem—it’s how it’s protected. He shares how TruGrid’s innovative architecture, built on SASE and Zero Trust, is making remote access safer and easier for MSPs, especially in the age of BYOD and cloud adoption.

Why Listen:

• Bust myths about RDP and VPN security
• Learn how TruGrid’s SASE architecture protects remote access
• Understand the risks of traditional VPNs and BYOD
• Get a preview of TruGrid’s upcoming private access solution
• Hear real-world stories from MSPs using TruGrid
• Find out how to close the gaps that leave networks exposed

Guest Bio and Links

Peter Ayedun is the co-founder and CEO of TruGrid, a company established in 2017 with a mission to simplify remote access for businesses while reducing costs and complexity, particularly by replacing traditional VPN technology with Zero Trust solutions.

• Website: https://trugrid.com
• LinkedIn: (No specific URL provided in transcript; use company LinkedIn if available: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trugrid/)

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned:

• Pax8: https://www.pax8.com
• Microsoft AVD (Azure Virtual Desktop): https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/products/virtual-desktop/

=== 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

• 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

=== 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

Live from PAX 8 Beyond, Uncle Marv chats with Leonard from Rythmz, the MSP-first company bringing portable internet to events and emergencies. Their rugged Pelican cases house bonded SIM cards for unlimited, high-priority data, perfect for powering small chamber events or a 100,000-person concert. Leonard shares how MSPs are cashing in by charging setup and daily fees, turning Wi-Fi into a revenue stream. With funny stories about booth setup struggles and co-founder Steve’s absence (and his love for vodka!), this episode is packed with insights for MSPs. Learn how Rythmz tackles fiber cuts and moves with plug-and-play ease.

Why Listen:

• Discover Rythmz’s portable internet-in-a-box for MSPs.
• Learn how to monetize events with setup and managed fees.
• Understand high-priority, unlimited data plans for reliability.
• Hear real-world success stories, from small events to Comic-Con.
• Get practical tips for emergency internet backups.
• Enjoy fun stories about PAX 8 booth setups and Steve’s absence.
• Explore Rythmz’s MSP-first approach for channel partners.
• Learn about upcoming “cold” pricing for inactive boxes.

Guest Bio:

Leonard is a seasoned channel veteran and a key figure at Rythmz, a company delivering portable internet solutions for MSPs. With nine months at Rythmz, he’s passionate about helping MSPs unlock new revenue through event Wi-Fi and emergency backups. Having started as an MSP and later working with Spam Soap, Leonard’s deep channel experience shines in his engaging, practical insights.

• Website: https://rythmz.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ldimiceli/

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• PAX 8: https://www.pax8.com
• CrowdStrike: https://www.crowdstrike.com
• Neft: Vodka company, Rythmz’s sister company - https://neftvodka.com
• AT&T: https://www.att.com
• Verizon: https://www.verizon.com
• T-Mobile: https://www.t-mobile.com
• Spam Soap: Former company of Leonard - https://www.spamsoap.com

=== 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

Live from Pax8 Beyond, Uncle Marv catches up with Brian Weiss, the Tech Stoic, who’s revolutionizing IT with Stoic philosophy. Running iTech Solutions, Brian focuses on people, process, and technology—helping clients navigate outages with practical solutions like backup internet or power redundancies. His Stoic mindset keeps his team grounded, emphasizing empathy and continuous improvement. Brian’s also launching his Tech Stoic podcast, sharing wisdom on staying present in the tech world. From Denver’s Museum of Illusions with his family to AI-driven efficiency, this episode is packed with insights.

Why Listen Takeaways

• Discover how Stoicism brings calm to IT challenges.
• Learn practical solutions for client outages, like backup internet.
• Understand the role of empathy in client relationships.
• Explore how AI reduces human error in processes.
• Get tips on process-driven excellence for IT businesses.
• Hear about Brian’s new Tech Stoic podcast launch.
• Gain insights from Pax8 Beyond’s vibrant atmosphere.

Guest Bio
Brian Weiss, the Tech Stoic, is the founder of iTech Solutions, a managed IT services provider blending Stoic philosophy with tech expertise. Known for his calm, empathetic approach, Brian helps clients navigate IT challenges with process-driven solutions and is launching the Tech Stoic podcast to share his insights.

• Website: https://itech-solutions.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjweiss/

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• Pax8 – https://www.pax8.com
• ThreatLocker – https://www.threatlocker.com
• ITIL Framework – https://www.axelos.com/best-practice-solutions/itil
• Museum of Illusions (Denver) – https://www.museumofillusions.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

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 wonder why some MSPs struggle with Macs while others thrive? Justin Esgar, founder of an Apple-focused MSP and host of All Things MSP, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to manage Macs at scale. From hilarious conference stories to the secrets of Mac deployment and security, this episode is packed with actionable insights for MSPs who want to level up their Apple game—or finally decide to leave it to the experts.

Why Listen:

• Hear real-world stories from a successful Apple MSP
• Learn how to avoid common MSP pitfalls
• Get inspired by Justin’s journey and conference success
• Discover the power of podcasting for business growth
• Find out why empathy and specialization matter in IT

Justin Esgar is the host of the All Things MSP podcast, founder of an Apple-based MSP, and organizer of the ACES Conference for Apple consultants. With over 17 years in the industry, Justin is passionate about helping MSPs grow, sharing knowledge, and connecting with others in the IT community.

• Website: virtuacomputers.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/justinesgar

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• ACES Conference: acesconf.com
• Apple Business Manager: business.apple.com
• JAMF: https://www.jamf.com/
• Apple Consultants Network: https://consultants.apple.com/us

=== 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

What does it take to stand out in the MSP world? Join Uncle Marv and event management expert Amy Slater as they unpack the power of community, collaboration, and smart event planning. From organizing intimate Lunch and Learns to orchestrating large-scale panels, Amy reveals how Innovative Events supports MSPs and small businesses in finding their voice and expanding their reach. Tune in for insider tips, real-world stories, and actionable advice from the heart of the MSP event scene.

Why Listen:

• Gain actionable event planning advice
• Understand the value of community and networking
• Learn how to market your MSP on a budget
• Discover Denver’s top event spots for MSPs
• Connect with industry leaders and resources

Amy Slater is the founder of Innovative Events, a full-service event management company specializing in corporate events, AV, and party planning for MSPs and small businesses. Based in Lafayette, Colorado, Amy is passionate about supporting business growth through creative event solutions and serves as the member advocate for the Managed Service Providers Association of America (MSPAA), encouraging MSPs to join and benefit from the association’s resources.

• Website: https://innovevent.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-slater89/

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned

• MSPAA (Managed Service Providers Association of America) – mspaa.net
• Pax8 Beyond – pax8.com/beyond

=== 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