1.) MSP Question of the Week  When should I hire my first sales person? --- 2.) Smart Person - Brianna Haun  Brianna's passion is to provide a level of excellence in serving clients, leading a team, and impacting the community through a value driven lifestyle. Gaining a new perspective, shifting a mindset, or creating something new, ignite my soul... https://www.linkedin.com/in/alignconsulting/ https://rss.com/podcasts/aligned/ --- 3.) Notes on the News   Google Anti-trust, Microsoft protects customers from lawsuits resulting from AI use, and GDP Growth beats expectations and Medicare spending has been level since 2010! --- Resources and Links: Kernan Mastermind Roadshow:  September 28-29 – Scottsdale, AZ! http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind https://kernanconsulting-mastermind.mykajabi.com/mastermind-event  Our Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.facebook.com/james.kernan https://www.facebook.com/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybabinchak/ https://www.facebook.com/amy.babinchak/

In this special edition of the SMB Community Podcast, host James sits down for an in-depth discussion with Jason Miller Jason Miller - founder and CEO of BitLyft. Have you ever been lured in by a big-name vendor, only to discover their definition of services didn't quite match your expectations? Tune into "Burned by the Big Guys" as we dissect real-life stories of vendor disappointments and uncover the discrepancies that often lie beneath polished pitches. In this episode we’ll share what questions to ask vendors, how to spot red flags, and provide an overview of what should actually be part of your service package. Don't get side-tracked by glossy brochures; learn from those who've been there. Book a demo with BitLyft: https://www.bitlyft.com/   Suggest reads - StrengthsFinder 2.0: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/253922/popular-cliftonstrengths-books.aspx   ---   Resources and Links: Kernan Mastermind Roadshow:  September 28-29 – Scottsdale, AZ! http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind https://kernanconsulting-mastermind.mykajabi.com/mastermind-event  Our Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.facebook.com/james.kernan https://www.facebook.com/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybabinchak/ https://www.facebook.com/amy.babinchak/

1.) MSP Question of the Week What the heck is EOS? We break down Entrepreneurial Operating System. Recommended reading: https://www.amazon.com/What-Heck-EOS-Employees-Companies/dp/1543699561#:~:text=Based%20on%20his%20years%20of,companies%2C%20helping%20them%20implement%20EOS --- 2.) Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Lisa Shorr  Host James sits down with Lisa Shoor and discuss the importance of "soft skills" https://shorrsuccess.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisashorr --- 3.) Notes on the News Microsoft breaks its own rule for licensing.  ...and a follow up on Remote vs. In-Office    Resources and Links: Kernan Mastermind Roadshow:  September 28-29 – Scottsdale, AZ! http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind https://kernanconsulting-mastermind.mykajabi.com/mastermind-event  Our Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.facebook.com/james.kernan https://www.facebook.com/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybabinchak/ https://www.facebook.com/amy.babinchak/

1.) MSP Question of The Week Do your workers come into the office, work remote or hybrid? --- 2.) Five minutes with a Smart Person Host Karl sits down with Kathryn Rose of ChannelWise.  Kathryn Rose is an innovator, and the founding CEO of award-winning global expert marketplaces (getWise, channelWise) that provide business owners and professionals in targeted markets, access to thousands of vetted executives, coaches/mentors, education and resources that accelerate business or career growth. She is a former Wall Street executive sales leader and an author of 9 books. She has been featured in Forbes, Inc. Magazine, CBS Marketwatch, Fox News and more. She was recently named Worth Magazine Top 100 Entrepreneurs, Forbes Top 1000 innovators and a member of the prestigious Nasdaq Milestone Makers program Learn more: https://www.channelwise.com/about-us 3.) Notes on the News  The infamous cage match and another vendor claims their product is what will make you money.   Resources and Links: Kernan Mastermind Roadshow:  September 28-29 - Scottsdale, AZ! http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind https://kernanconsulting-mastermind.mykajabi.com/mastermind-event  Our Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.facebook.com/james.kernan https://www.facebook.com/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybabinchak/ https://www.facebook.com/amy.babinchak/

Segment One: The MSP Question of the Week  Do you attend social events with clients? --- Segment Two: Notes on the News  ChatGPT is getting alarmingly less accurate! This is huge.  https://www.popsci.com/technology/chatgpt-human-inaccurate/    --- Kernan mastermind September 28-29 - Scottsdale, AZ: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind or  https://kernanconsulting-mastermind.mykajabi.com/mastermind-event    Our Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.facebook.com/james.kernan https://www.facebook.com/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybabinchak/ https://www.facebook.com/amy.babinchak/

Segment One: The MSP Question of The Week How many shows should an MSP attend in a year? --- Segment Two: Minutes with A Smart Person - Jake Gregorich  Host James sits down with Jake Gregorich of Lyra Technology Group  and discuss sales and marketing philosophies. Jake oversees revenue generation for Lyra Technology Group. He joined the team in 2023 to help grow people, increase collaboration among Lyra companies, and serve as a resource to help drive revenue growth. Prior to Lyra, Jake worked with MSPs including Impact Networking, Ntiva, and Equilibrium IT. He also served as an independent consultant to private equity backed MSPs and private equity companies looking to enter the MSP market on sales & marketing, diligence, acquisitions, and integration. Outside of work, he enjoys good drinks, food, and laughs with his pregnant wife carrying their 1st child, golden retriever, and large extended family. When he is not spending time with family and friends, Jake can be found outdoors hiking, biking, swimming, and playing team sports. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-gregorich-47b27948/ --- Upcoming Events:  Host Karl attends XChange in Austin! See: https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda Kernan Masterminds September 28-29 - Scottsdale, AZ - http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind https://kernanconsulting-mastermind.mykajabi.com/mastermind-event  Our Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.facebook.com/james.kernan https://www.facebook.com/karlpalachuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/   Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

For this edition of SMBCP, Host Karl sits down with two lovely guests in two seperate five minutes with a smart person. Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Double Feature!  First up: Larry Mandelberg is a consultant, speaker and author with “more than 150 years of combined business experience.” A natural problem solver, Larry represents the 5th generation of his family’s business. He started working at a young age where he learned from his father before and after school. Larry is an effective catalyst for change who has solved intractable problems and achieved new levels of efficiency and success for businesses in multiple industries. A prolific writer, Larry has published more than 80 columns. His first book, Businesses Don’t Fail, They Commit Suicide is scheduled for release in early 2018. A sought-after speaker, he has delivered more than 60 business-changing keynotes and workshops. https://mandelberg.biz/about-larry/ https://www.amazon.com/Businesses-Dont-Fail-Commit-Suicide-ebook/dp/B0C3F9GQZ9#:~:text=Businesses%20Don't%20Fail%2C%20They%20Commit%20Suicide%20is%20an%20inspiring,strategic%20planning%20and%20proactive%20mindset. --- Next up: James Steel at ChannelCon An experienced IT channel leader with a passion for the Managed Service Provider (MSP) and IT Support Provider community and a specialism for working closely with partners in North America and Europe to drive growth.  Also a proud member of CompTIA's UK Executive Council where I work together with the hugely talented team to increase exposure for the great work the organisation does within the MSP space in particular. https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%91%87-james-steel-8964947/ https://www.linode.com/partners/ https://www.akamai.com/ --- Sponsor Memo: Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community NOW is the time to join the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at https://SmallBizThoughts.ORG There is no better value for training and education in managed services. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free 5-week courses, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Prices go up July 1st. Join now and you can lock in the lower price for life. See all the details and Join us today at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org. 🙂

Segment One: MSP Question of the Week/Notes on the News We combine our two segments-- With Twitter X's arrival (and departure, which social media should MSPs be using? We compile a list of our social media necassities for MSPs and how to take advantage of it.  And...Is our industry dominated by the “Magnificent Seven?” Reuters: “The outsized gains have come with big earnings expectations for the seven companies: Apple (AAPL.O), Microsoft (MSFT.O), Alphabet (GOOGL.O), Amazon (AMZN.O), Nvidia (NVDA.O), Tesla (TSLA.O) and Meta Platforms (META.O). BofA Global Research projects they will increase earnings by an average of 19% over the next 12 months, more than double the 8% estimated rise for the rest of the S&P 500.” --- Segment Two: Fives Minutes with A Smart Person - Lucas Acosta  "I'm a fixer. I left Apple to provide business-class solutions for businesses using Apple products. We've got a fantastic team offering a few specific solutions for businesses using Apple products. I'd love to connect and learn how you're using your Mac, iPhone, iPad, Watch, or HomePod! ;) Specialties: Mobile Device Management (MDM), Mobile Content Management (MCM), Asdeq, MobileIron, AirWatch, Casper Suite, Mac consulting, iPad consulting, Apple IT, Mobile Security, Mac training, iPad training, Group training. Did I mention I work with people I love? I'm proud of every single one of my team members. I hire only full-time W2 employees with benefits. We've got a fantastic culture built around servanthood, and hospitality." Lucas’s LinkedIn page:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucasacosta/ Blog and newsletter on MSP best practices: https://lucasacosta.com  --- Our Social Media:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kernan-varcoach/ https://www.instagram.com/james_kernan/?hl=en https://twitter.com/JKernan https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlpalachuk/ https://www.instagram.com/karlpalachuk/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/@smallbizthoughts   Sponsor Memo: Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community NOW is the time to join the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at https://SmallBizThoughts.ORG There is no better value for training and education in managed services. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free 5-week courses, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Prices go up July 1st. Join now and you can lock in the lower price for life. See all the details and Join us today at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org. 🙂

Today Hosts James welcomes our guest co-host: Charlene Ignacio! Being from Hawaii, she makes friends everywhere she goes. What you see online is what you get in person. She serves as a multi-industry CEO, speaker, author, serial entrepreneur for, business results Coach and is also a  2nd Degree Black Belt in Judo, and Black Belt Lean Six Sigma Certified. She is also the CMO at ChannelMastered and CEO of https://TheCMOGuru.com --- Segment One:  MSP Question of the Week What can MSP’s do to market their business with little or no budget? --- Segment Two: What Are You Up To? Catch James and Charlene at ChannelCon in Las Vegas and more!  --- Segment Three: Five Minutes with A Smart Person - Mr. Van Deeb  Host James and Mr. Van Deeb sit down and talk becoming successful by doing the right thing in the workplace and how leaders help others succeed. Van Deeb is the country’s foremost expert on building relationships and is dedicated to helping others become successful in the sales and service industry. He has inspired tens of thousands of professionals throughout the country to succeed through his motivational and informative keynote speeches, workshops, speaking events, newsletters, and books.   SPONSOR MEMO:  IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

Segement One: MSP Question of the Week From Janet Schijns, a question and a survey: "Today I am thinking about how Generative AI will impact the channel partner cost to serve vendors in the future. For example: By using Generative AI to create your marketing materials, better select ideal customers, customized dev work, customer support, or other tasks that AI can do to help lower your overall costs, does this actually result in a lower cost of serving the vendor product/solutions you distribute? Or will it have no impact?" https://www.linkedin.com/posts/janetschijns_generativeai-channelpartners-surveying-activity-7069746600708841472-go6A   --- Segment Two: Notes on the News  New suggestions for what a secure password is in the era of AI: https://www.hivesystems.io/blog/are-your-passwords-in-the-green  Nvidia - Absurdly expensive? $385/share. Market cap $952B. Connectwise up for sale? https://www.reddit.com/r/msp/comments/142vndc/connectwise_buyout_heres_whats_really_going_on/  ---  Sponsor Memo: Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community NOW is the time to join the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at https://SmallBizThoughts.ORG There is no better value for training and education in managed services. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free 5-week courses, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Prices go up July 1st. Join now and you can lock in the lower price for life. See all the details and Join us today at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org. :-)

Segment One: The MSP Question of The Week I have clients that have three PCs but don’t need a whole lot, what should I do? Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Dr. Lance Reichenberger --- Host James sits down with his friend, Dr. Lance Reichenberger. When Lance was only 11 years old, he began working with and programming computers. His father, an engineer, sometimes worked on a computer at home. When he was not using the machine for his professional work, he allowed young Lance to learn while playing with this computer. This was before even a dial-up modem, when transferring data required a 5 ½ inch floppy disk. He found there was not much on the hard drive, so he began rewriting the programs. He changed out the hardware, added capabilities and eventually added an early stage modem to access in the internet. Technology was a natural match for his abilities and his father encouraged him to use the natural ability to create a future. As a young man, he volunteered in the emergency room of a hospital learned a lot about medicine. This led him to become an EMT and paramedic with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Although he had plans to become a doctor, those plans were sidetracked. He did, however, do a lot of the network cabling, computers, and programming at several medical organizations. He continues to be a subject matter expert in the area of medical technology. --- Segment Three: Notes on the News  Cage fight! Yup, it’s our turn to give our two cents on Zuckerberg vs. Musk. Azure AD gets a new name: https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/updates/azure-ad-is-becoming-microsoft-entra-id/#:~:text=Microsoft%20Entra%20ID%20is%20the,secure%20access%20experiences%20for%20everyone. And finally, is it recession time? --- Resources and Links: CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l Karl will be at XChange Nashville August 20-33! Check out more: https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda   Sponsor Memo: NSITSP Hey MSPs: People are talking about you - behind your back. They're regulators and legislators. They're CISA and the states of Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. And more. Every state now has at least one committee in their state legislature that focuses on cybersecurity. That means regulation is coming. You can count on it. The National Society of IT Service Providers was created to give you a seat at the table when someone's talking about you. That includes regulator, legislators, and even the media. Find out more and join today at www.nsitsp.org We're working on your behalf to turn the industry into a profession.

We catch up with Host Karl and Host Amy. Find out who's smoke free. Segment One: The MSP Question of the Week   Do you have to be a “technical” person in order to run a successful IT consulting business? --- Segment Two: Five minutes with a Smart Person - Sarah Hansen Host James sits down with Sarah Hansen of Hansen Collective. Upon earning her bachelor's degree in journalism and media communications at Colorado State University, Sarah Hansen set out to forge a career path that was both creative and flexible in social media marketing. After gaining experience working as a social media strategist with top performing midwest agencies and freelancing with brands around the country, at the age of 23, Sarah launched her own social media brand– Hansen Collective. Not only is Hansen Collective a place where she uses her online marketing expertise to help both international and domestic clients, but it's also a place where she can foster a community and educate her audience on creating effective social media strategies for personal brands and businesses alike. --- Segment Three:  Notes on the News  Technology we didn’t expect...Car companies have become the “natural” providers of home electrical systems and DC battery power. https://www.theverge.com/2023/6/28/23776690/gm-energy-ultium-home-ev-charging-v2h-stationary-storage  --- Resources and Links CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l XChange Nashville = Karl attending August 20-33 See https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda   Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

Segment One: Notes on the News We sit down with Amy B and James and discuss the PAX8 marketplace Microsoft $5 Subscription Based Business Assist, and Microsoft Most Recent Security Response. Microsoft Business Assist: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/business-assist-for-microsoft-365-37deb8fe-61cc-4cf9-9ad1-1c8d93475070 Microsoft Security Blog: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2023/06/14/cadet-blizzard-emerges-as-a-novel-and-distinct-russian-threat-actor/ Windows patch: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/kb5028407-how-to-manage-the-vulnerability-associated-with-cve-2023-32019-bd6ed35f-48b1-41f6-bd19-d2d97270f080 --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with A Smart Person - Oliver Nshom  Oliver Nshom is one of the Best Public Speaking Trainers, graduate from the Business Leadership School USA, a certified speaker from Kernan Consultancy USA, Trained and certified Human Resource professional (CHRP), Trained and certified Customer Relationship Professional (CCRP), Trained and Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Trained and Certified Speaker and Coach (CSC). He recently batched the Star Heroes after completing his Executive Master’s Program from MOGi Global Leadership School in Nigeria. --- Segment Three: What Are You Up To? Our hosts gear up for event season. Check out these awesome events will be at: CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l XChange Nashville = Karl attending August 20-33 See https://event.thechannelco.com/xchange-august/agenda   Sponsor Memo: ITSPU IT Service Provider University IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business. We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

Segment One: What are you up to? Amy B, James, and Karl--3/4th of our wonderful hosts join is for today's episode. Amy B joins on the road as she drives north to...the boat. — Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person – Our Very Own James Kernan! James Kernan's first and last time as our smart person ;)! Today, we discuss James's course on Leadership and Management Principles for MSPs over at ITSP University. Learn more about this course here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zzbZqkPZz8&t=2s https://www.itspu.com/ Check out James's event: Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event – Denver June 29-30th LINK TO REGISTER: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind — Segment Three: MSP Question of the week and Notes on the News  Q: Do you have to be an early adopter if you're an IT consultatant? And does it dictacte success?  Sometimes the latest, greatest tool just add up in the server closet. And sometimes change isnt necassary. As they say, if it ain't broke... In the news: Amy B reads an article. "Twitter owes google and AWS a boat load of money for hosting them in their evironement."  In short, Twitter is the dreaded "deadbeat client". So, when should you cut off your deadbeat client?   Resources and Links: https://nsitsp.org/events NSITSP's Webinar on Change Management: https://nsitsp.org/event/webinar-change-management-for-it-service-providers/ CompTIA Free registration – August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l ---   Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at https://smallbizthoughts.org Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://smallbizthoughts.org

Segment One: What are you up to? Host Amy B and Karl discuss the latest in flower power. --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Allen Edwards  Allen began his I.T. career in 1994 as an entry-level tech, climbing the ladder through positions such as network technologist and then division manager in just six years. He founded his first I.T. company in 2002, and in ten short years led the enterprise through a transition from break/fix to MSP, and from custom ticketing to AutoTask before moving to ConnectWise Manage. Allen started Eureka Process with a view to benefiting their clients through immersion in their daily process and activity. Allen brings his breadth of technical and leadership knowledge to the table, along with proven leadership implementation skills to guide his clients and their teams through fostering the development of the hard and soft skills that make success inevitable. Allen is strict about Eureka’s mandate, always add value first, whether that means working with C-level executives to elevate their leadership game or getting hands-on with front-line techs or the sales team. A sought-after MSP expert, he aims to offer his clients a sense of relief from the demand and complexity of running a successful MSP. Allen wants to reinvigorate teams with enthusiasm and a sense of possibility while building meaningful, growth-centered relationships that support next-level performance. With a passion for adventure, Allen fills his spare time nurturing any one of his varied interests. From scuba diving to snow skiing, acro-yoga and travel – he looks to take in all this world has to offer. https://eurekaprocess.com/about/ --- Segment Three: MSP Question of the week and Notes on the News  Q: Do we have too few ports on new laptops? Is AI really going to kill us all? Why is there a move by AI-creators to scare everyone? Is it the end of work? Resources and Links: https://nsitsp.org/join/ Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event - Denver June 29-30th LINK TO REGISTER: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind CompTIA Free registration - August 1-3  Use code SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l   Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at https://smallbizthoughts.org Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you’re in business for yourself doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://smallbizthoughts.org

Segment One: What are you up to? Karl just wrapped up the SMB Online Conference!  Check it out here: https://smbonlineconference.com  Three days of smart people & fun. James is revving up for his LIVE event in Denver this month June 29th-30th.  Register here:  http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind Interested in more live shows?  Use Karl's code for CompTIA Free registration!  Use code: SBSmallBizThoughts23 Link: https://i.snoball.it/p/3igU/l --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Brian Hoppe Karl sits down with this week's smart person. Brian has been part of the Managed Services industry since the early 2000s. He earned both his Bachelor’s and MBA from Baylor University. For over 20 years, Brian has worked in multiple MSPs and has bought and sold multiple MSPs. He has grown multiple MSPs to over $5 million in revenue and managed MSPs in excess of $15 million in revenue. Brian has a thorough understanding of all the ins and outs of running a highly successful MSP. His expertise in leadership and coaching can help any MSP owner or CEO achieve the results they want in both business and life. He is passionate about finding the right clients for his coaching practice to help take their business and leadership to the next level. Check out more here: https://brianhoppe.com --- Segment Three: Notes on the News and MSP Question of the Week   Our QOW: What’s more important: People or Process? As for the Notes on the News... Does the Netflix crackdown on password sharing affect you? https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/23/23734725/netflix-password-sharing-us-pricing-streaming  Fun with Statistics: Managed Services Market is $205B worldwide...headed to to reach $594.8 B by 2031.  We gotta ask: Why not just project $595B? https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/managed-services-market-A14724  --- Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.  Check us out at https://smallbizthoughts.org Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.  Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere. Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.  The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.  We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.  Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://smallbizthoughts.org

Host Amy and James take over the pod once again. Segment One: What are you up to? Amy and Karl finalize their sessions for the SMB IT Pro conference in Australia this October! There, they will discuss why retirement looks different for business owners and Amy will be doing a technical deep dive: getting Microsoft 365 Business Premium’s Endpoint detection and Response features setup. As for James, anything goes on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/james-kernan-varcoach_business-consulting-ama-activity-7064672657526456321-80QK?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop Don't forget to sign up for James's Kernan Mastermind LIVE Event - Denver June 29-30th: http://bit.ly/kernanmastermind --- Segment Two: Five Minutes with a Smart Person - Ashlyn Szilva  Ashlyn Szilva achieved her doctorate in history with a specialization in Research Analysis. She has taught as a professor of history, journalism, and photo history for 2 1/2 years. She is now the Director of Social Media and Digital Marketing for JS Group Consulting where she worked part-time during her education. She manages the social media influence and social selling strategy for over a dozen technology firms big and small and am well known for her ability to create influencers in a digital normal. She still likes to utilize her research analysis skills from her education and does so now researching trends in the channel. On top of this she also runs her own LLC, ANS Group which focuses on social media and digital marketing. --- Segment Three: The MSP Question of the Week What certifications should I be focusing to complete if I’m looking for a better position in IT? --- Sponsor Memo: SBTTC

In today's special episode, Host Karl heads out to Channel Partner's Las Vegas. We follow him on his adventures through the vendor hall. So what do these vendors have for sale and what socks do they have? Thank you to all vendors who participated in this episode!  Listed below in order:  https://www.tdsynnex.com/na/us/ https://www.ninjaone.com/ https://www.hooksecurity.co/ https://ussignal.com/ https://threatlocker.com/ https://www.scalecomputing.com/ https://pia.ai/ --- Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.  IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications. Pathways Include  Management Technician Sales/Marketing Service Manager Front Office Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com

We catch up with hosts Amy B and James!  Segment One: So what's up with you?  Amy B is back from Channel Partners!  Here takeaway: The expo hall is multi football fields long and every third booth was a bar. --- Segment Two: 5 Minutes with a Smart Person - Manny Palachuk Host Karl catches up with Brother Manny. Manuel Palachuk has over 30 years of business, management, and training experience in the computer and electronics industries. Manuel has owned several successful businesses, managed several successful IT and MSP service companies, and coached, mentored, or trained many more businesses all over the world. He is an expert of process, systems, and their efficiency who is driven toward continuous improvement in all aspects of business. He is a well-known author in the IT consulting community for Small and Medium-sized Businesses, and an experienced speaker and trainer at industry conferences. --- Segment Three: Social Media Marketing & Brand Awareness ---   Sponsor Memo: NSITSP By now you've heard of the National Society of IT Service Providers. But why should YOU join? The NSITSP is committed to transforming our Industry into a Profession. They've established an industry-wide code of ethics and are working to improve the reputation of IT consultants nationwide. Wherever anybody is talking ABOUT IT consultants, NSITSP wants a seat at the table.  That includes the media, government regulators, and the general public. Take pride in your industry and show off your membership. Join us today at https://NSITSP.ORG

Today, our host congregate from their hotel rooms.  --- Segment One: 5 Minutes with a Smart Person - Larry Mandelberg We speak with Larry Mandelberg. Larry is an effective catalyst for change who achieved new levels of efficacy and growth for businesses in industries as diverse as software, automotive, education and agriculture. If change is causing your staff grief, frustration, baldness, or acne, I can help. After all, nobody likes change done unto them. Everybody likes change they do unto others, and I know how to flip that script. This class provides proprietary content from Larry Mandelberg, a non-recovering, 5th generation serial entrepreneur who’s owned 13+ businesses. He has launched four start-ups, led a merger, and performed a successful turnaround. A prolific writer, Larry has published more than 80 columns. His first book, Businesses Don’t Fail, They Commit Suicide is scheduled for release in early 2023. A sought-after speaker, he has delivered more than 60 business-changing keynotes and workshops.  Mr. Mandelberg is a student of organizational lifecycles and has developed a system to help business owners create sustainable growth. He has been a guest on television and radio programs talking about business and entrepreneurship. Through his consulting practice he provides leadership development, executive coaching, ethics training and strategic planning to mid-sized organizations and their Boards. --- Segment Two: MSP Question of the Week   All things MSP group owner, Eric Anthony, asked his question of the day, "Do you use SLA’s?" He got zip, zero, nada responses to his post. And he asks why that is.  So we ask, does anyone care about SLA from an MSP? --- Segment One: 5 Minutes with a Smart Person - Larry Mandelberg We speak with Larry Mandelberg. Larry is an effective catalyst for change who achieved new levels of efficacy and growth for businesses in industries as diverse as software, automotive, education and agriculture. If change is causing your staff grief, frustration, baldness, or acne, I can help. After all, nobody likes change done unto them. Everybody likes change they do unto others, and I know how to flip that script. This class provides proprietary content from Larry Mandelberg, a non-recovering, 5th generation serial entrepreneur who’s owned 13+ businesses. He has launched four start-ups, led a merger, and performed a successful turnaround. A prolific writer, Larry has published more than 80 columns. His first book, Businesses Don’t Fail, They Commit Suicide is scheduled for release in early 2023. A sought-after speaker, he has delivered more than 60 business-changing keynotes and workshops.  Mr. Mandelberg is a student of organizational lifecycles and has developed a system to help business owners create sustainable growth. He has been a guest on television and radio programs talking about business and entrepreneurship. Through his consulting practice he provides leadership development, executive coaching, ethics training and strategic planning to mid-sized organizations and their Boards. --- Segment Two: MSP Question of the Week   All things MSP group owner, Eric Anthony, asked his question of the day, "Do you use SLA’s?" He got zip, zero, nada responses to his post. And he asks why that is.  So we ask, does anyone care about SLA from an MSP? --- Segment Three: Are Indirect Career Paths Possible Today? There once was a time where you could train to be a psychology and end up working as IT service provider. But, now that these pathways have matured and standards raised, is the impossible still possible? Also an update on our ChannelPartners adventures.  As heard in the vendor hall…"We’re the easiest security solution!"  …from every security solution. Is the easiest solution the best solution? What happened to expertise? --- Sponsor Ad: The SMB Online Conference  Mark your calendars and plan to join us May 17-18 at the SMB Online Conference 2023. Two full days of content.  More than a dozen speakers. A special Killing IT Live podcast recording. And much more. Every three years, Karl Palachuk and Small Biz Thoughts bring you a spectacular two-day online conference. And they do it right. Save $100 by registering today at https://smbonlineconference.com