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 expertiseTraining as a tool for MSP growth and customer retentionSimple, effective learning management inside MicrosoftAffordable pricing and easy administrationOpportunities to expand services and re-engage clientsKathleen 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.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenlordCompanies, Products, and Books MentionedPax8: https://www.pax8.comSkilljar: https://www.skilljar.com=== SPONSORSProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast
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16:51
How to Know You’re Not Charging Enough (EP 853)
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 solutionsExpert advice on DHCP placementIndustry news: Synchro’s universal billingConnectWise malware warningsFlorida Man alligator adventureNews:Syncro Announces Universal Billing: https://em8k.short.gy/1qiTP9Attackers User ConnectWise Installers as Malware: https://em8k.short.gy/v6eGSEFlorida Man Wakes to Alligator in Pool: https://em8k.short.gy/iuPMn9Companies & ProductsSynchro XMM Platform: https://www.synchro.comConnectWise (ScreenConnect): https://www.connectwise.comMicrosoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/365Proofpoint: https://www.proofpoint.comBit Titan MigrationWiz: https://www.bittitan.comClio: https://www.clio.comPractice Panther: https://www.practicepanther.comAmicus: https://www.amicusattorney.comTime Matters & PC Law: https://pclawtimematters.com/CenrerStack: https://www.centrestack.com/Zorus: https://www.zorus.comAmazon Prime Day: https://amzn.to/4noQmWM=== SPONSORSPremier Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmzProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugridDigital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast
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47:32
Mac Management for MSPs (EP 852)
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 MSPLearn how to avoid common MSP pitfallsGet inspired by Justin’s journey and conference successDiscover the power of podcasting for business growthFind out why empathy and specialization matter in ITJustin 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.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/justinesgarCompanies, Products, and Books MentionedACES Conference: acesconf.comApple Business Manager: business.apple.comJAMF: https://www.jamf.com/Apple Consultants Network: https://consultants.apple.com/us=== SPONSORSProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast
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28:44
Innovative Events for MSP Growth (EP 851)
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 adviceUnderstand the value of community and networkingLearn how to market your MSP on a budgetDiscover Denver’s top event spots for MSPsConnect with industry leaders and resourcesAmy 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 MentionedMSPAA (Managed Service Providers Association of America) – mspaa.netPax8 Beyond – pax8.com/beyond=== SPONSORSProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast
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11:03
Travel, Food & IT with Brook Lee (EP 850)
Join Uncle Marv and Brook Lee as they swap stories from the road, sharing the secrets to building authentic vendor relationships and the value of thinking outside the box. From event etiquette to real-world onboarding challenges, they share stories and strategies that will help you spot the best fit for your business. Plus, get ready for a world tour of food, travel, and unforgettable networking moments—because in the IT world, sometimes the best connections are made over a hot dog on a curb at 2 a.m.Why Listen:Learn how to choose vendors who “get” MSPsDiscover event networking and vendor etiquette tipsHear behind-the-scenes stories from PAX 8 BeyondGet inspired by Liongard’s innovative approachEnjoy travel and foodie adventures from the roadCompanies, Products & Books MentionedLiongard – https://liongard.comPAX 8 – https://pax8.comBao Brewhouse (Denver, CO) – https://baobrewhouse.com Starbucks Reserve (Chicago, IL) – https://starbucksreserve.comBrooke Lee is a key leader at Liongard, a company known for its innovative approach to IT automation and its strong focus on MSP experience. With a background in MSP operations and a passion for authentic partnerships, Brooke brings real-world insights and a refreshing honesty to every conversation. She’s also a travel and food enthusiast, always on the lookout for the next great meal or memorable adventure.Website: https://liongard.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookatliongard/=== SPONSORSProduction Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongardTravel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoipTravel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATELicensee: Marvin BeeRegistered Project Name: IT Business PodcastItem Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock LogoItem URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UETAuthor Username: AlexanderRufireLicense Date: January 1st, 2024Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
=== Show InformationWebsite: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/Host: Marvin BeeUncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZBecome a monthly supporter: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast
The IT Business Podcast is a show for MSPs (Managed Service Providers) and IT Professionals providing business network support and managed services. The podcast aims to provide actionable advice and tips that help IT businesses survive and grow in the competitive tech industry.
The podcast features guest interviews with seasoned IT professionals, business owners, vendors and industry leaders who share their experiences, insights, and strategies for success. These discussions often cover topics such as:
- Best Practices for Managed Services
- Cybersecurity
- Compliance
- Business ownership
- Cloud computing
Listen to Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast, The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app