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MSP Unplugged

Paco Lebron

This podcast is where we discuss different ways to run your I.T. business whether you are a one-person shop or leading a growing IT Service provider. This is the place for you.

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  • 22 episodes
  • Avg 36 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • #313
    September 1 · 37 min

    Why Annual Security Training Fails — and How usecure Helps MSPs Fix Human Risk

    🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nihil Morjaria, Chief Revenue Officer at usecure, to talk about human risk management — the biggest gap in most small MSP security stacks. usecure helps MSPs automate security awareness training, phishing simulations, dark web monitoring, and policy management so lean teams can reduce client risk and sell a measurable security service without adding headcount. What You'll Learn: Why traditional annual training no longer works How MSPs can automate human risk management across clients Using Human Risk Reports as a sales and prospecting tool How to package, price, and deliver awareness as recurring revenue Practical first steps for MSPs under $3M with small teams Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro & Welcome Nihil Morjaria [Add actual timestamps here] 👉 Resources & Links: usecure: https://www.usecure.io MSP Unplugged: https://www.mspunplugged.com If your clients keep clicking phishing emails — or you want a security service that's actually manageable — this episode is for you. Drop your biggest human-risk challenge in the comments. 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for weekly MSP growth and security conversations. #MSP #Cybersecurity #HumanRiskManagement #usecure #SecurityAwareness #Phishing #SmallMSP #MSPUnplugged

  • #312
    September 1 · 32 min

    AI Email Security for MSPs: How Cambrient Cuts "Is This Safe?" Tickets Without MX Changes

    🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we talk with Cambrient AI about a different approach to email security: agentic AI that investigates every message instead of just scoring or filtering it. Cambrient was built for MSPs — multi-tenant, fast to deploy (no MX record changes), and designed to cut the "is this email safe?" ticket load that eats small-team margins. What You'll Learn: Why signature-based email tools still miss modern phishing and BEC How AI agents inspect links, redirects, attachments, and intent Why 5-minute, no-MX deployment matters for MSPs managing many tenants How self-service false-positive release and plain-English explanations reduce tickets How a lean MSP can add stronger email security without extra analysts 👉 Resources & Links: Cambrient AI: https://www.cambrient.ai MSP Unplugged: https://www.mspunplugged.com Armaan Chakrabarti Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armaan-chakrabarti-1659201b6/ If email tickets are eating your day, this one is worth the watch. What's your current email security stack? Tell us in the comments. 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more real-talk MSP security and operations content. #MSP #EmailSecurity #Phishing #BEC #AI #Cambrient #SmallMSP #Cybersecurity #MSPUnplugged

  • #315
    August 28 · 33 min· Video

    From MSP to MIP: Ryan Walsh (Pax8) on AI, Strategy & How Small MSPs Stay Relevant

    🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Ryan Walsh, Channel Chief and Chief Strategy Officer at Pax8, to talk about where small MSPs actually go next. Ryan has spent years helping partners clean up messy stacks, scale through the marketplace, and rethink what "managed services" even means as AI changes client expectations. This conversation is built for owners running lean shops — under $3M and under 20 employees — who need a practical path, not a enterprise slide deck. What You'll Learn: Why Pax8 frames the shift from MSP to Managed Infrastructure Provider (MIP) What AI actually changes for small MSPs (and what it doesn't) How to clean up a messy vendor stack without blowing up delivery Leadership and culture moves that help a small team adopt new services How marketplace, partnerships, and product expansion can drive growth without a huge sales org Practical first steps for MSPs who feel behind on AI and strategy 👉 Resources & Links: Pax8: https://www.pax8.com Ryan Walsh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmwalsh1/ MSP Unplugged: https://www.mspunplugged.com What's one thing in your stack you'd rip out tomorrow if you could? Drop it in the comments. 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for weekly real-talk MSP strategy. #MSP #Pax8 #RyanWalsh #AI #MSPStrategy #SmallMSP #MIP #Channel #MSPUnplugged

  • #311
    July 31 · 33 min

    Ryan McGill on Scaling MSP Operations & Turning Challenges into Growth

    🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Ryan McGill to discuss his journey and practical strategies for running and scaling a successful managed services business. Ryan shares real-world insights on improving operations, streamlining delivery, and helping small MSP teams overcome common challenges. Whether you're looking to tighten processes, boost efficiency, or prepare for growth, this conversation delivers actionable takeaways tailored for MSPs under $3M in revenue and with lean teams. What You'll Learn: Ryan's background and path in the MSP industry Key operational lessons for small and growing MSPs Practical ways to improve service delivery and team efficiency Strategies for handling scaling challenges without losing quality Advice on turning operational friction into competitive advantages Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro & Welcome Ryan McGill [Add actual timestamps here] 👉 Resources & Links: Connect with Ryan McGill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-mcgill-30927b31/ MSP Unplugged Community: https://www.mspunplugged.com What's one operational challenge your MSP is facing right now? Drop it in the comments! 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more real-talk MSP growth and operations content every week. #MSP #MSPOperations #SmallMSP #MSPGrowth #RyanMcGill #ManagedServices #MSPUnplugged Purchase your tickets at https://techconunplugged.com

  • #310
    July 20 · 37 min

    Business Outcome Conversations: The Next Phase of MSP Customer Penetration with Luis Giraldo

    🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, Luis Giraldo, Chief Evangelist at ScalePad, shares his journey and powerful strategies for turning around struggling MSPs — with a special focus on QBRs (Quarterly Business Reviews) and why business outcome conversations are the next evolution in customer penetration. Luis explains how moving beyond technical check-ins to real business discussions can dramatically improve retention, expansion, and client relationships — especially for small MSP teams. What You'll Learn: Luis's path from MSP owner to helping hundreds of providers scale How to turn around a struggling MSP with better client engagement Why traditional technical QBRs are no longer enough — and how to run business outcome QBRs that drive real value Practical marketing and conversation frameworks that help you penetrate accounts deeper and become a trusted advisor Actionable tips for small MSPs (Less than $3M revenue, Less than 20 employees) to implement outcome-focused reviews without adding overhead Timestamps: 👉 Resources & Links: ScalePad: https://www.scalepad.com Connect with Luis Giraldo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisgiraldo/ MSP Unplugged Community: https://www.mspunplugged.com Purchase your tickets to TechCon Unplugged at https://techconunplugged.com If your QBRs feel like checkbox exercises, this episode will change how you approach client meetings forever. Drop your biggest QBR challenge in the comments! 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more MSP growth strategies. #MSP #QBR #BusinessOutcomes #CustomerSuccess #ScalePad #MSPRetention #SmallMSP #MSPMarketing #LuisGiraldo

  • #309
    July 20 · 35 min

    MSP Revival Guide: Marketing Help, Leadership & Growth with Cynthia Schreiner (Pax8)

    🎙️ In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, Cynthia Schreiner — Senior Manager of Channel Engagement at Pax8 — joins us to discuss her journey and proven strategies for reviving struggling MSPs. Drawing from her hands-on experience as a former MSP Business Administrator and her current role empowering partners at Pax8, Cynthia dives deep into the real challenges of turning around underperforming businesses. She shares practical marketing tactics, operational pivots, community-building approaches, and leadership insights that help MSP owners break out of stagnation and drive sustainable growth. If your MSP is struggling with client acquisition, visibility, retention, or overall momentum, this conversation offers actionable revival strategies tailored for small teams. What You'll Learn: * Proven methods for reviving struggling MSPs — from diagnosis to full turnaround * Marketing help that actually works for lean MSPs: positioning, lead generation, and differentiation * Operational and leadership shifts that reignite growth without burning out your team *The role of strong vendor partnerships (like Pax8) in recovery and scaling * Mindset and community tactics that prevent future struggles 👉 Resources & Links: Connect with Cynthia Schreiner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-schreiner/ Pax8 for MSPs: https://www.pax8.com MSP Unplugged Community: https://www.mspunplugged.com What's one marketing or revival challenge your MSP is facing right now? Share in the comments! 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more real-talk MSP revival stories and growth strategies. Buy your tickets for TechCon Unplugged! https://www.techconunplugged.com #MSP #RevivingMSP #MSPMarketing #BusinessTurnaround #Pax8 #SmallMSP #MSPGrowth #MSPUnplugged #CynthiaSchreiner

  • #308
    July 6 · 34 min

    From Struggling Business to Thriving MSP in Salt Lake City – Ed Lukacs of 2Fifteen Tech

    🎙️ In this honest and inspiring episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Ed Lukacs, CEO of 2Fifteen Tech in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ed opens up about his real journey building and turning around a struggling managed service provider. From early challenges and tough pivots to creating a thriving MSP that specializes in supporting creative agencies, PR firms, Apple-centric environments, and Google Workspace — this conversation is packed with practical lessons for any MSP owner feeling stuck. If you're running a small MSP (under $3M revenue, less than 20 employees) and looking for motivation + actionable strategies to reset, refocus, and grow, this episode delivers. What You'll Learn: The raw realities of turning around a struggling MSP business Key pivots that helped 2Fifteen Tech find its niche and scale Leadership lessons for MSP owners in tough times Serving creative and Apple-focused clients effectively Mindset shifts and operational changes that drive real results Advice for MSPs in any market (including Salt Lake City and beyond) 2Fifteen Tech: https://215.tech Connect with Ed Lukacs: [LinkedIn Profile] MSP Unplugged Community: https://www.mspunplugged.com Drop your biggest takeaway or current business challenge in the comments — Ed and the community are here to help! 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more real-talk stories from MSP owners just like you. #MSP #MSPJourney #BusinessTurnaround #SmallMSP #2FifteenTech #SaltLakeCity #ManagedServices #MSPSuccess #EdLukacs

  • #307
    July 6 · 40 min

    Stop Getting Breached: Matt Lee Shares MSP Cybersecurity Strategies for Under $3M Shops

    🎙️ In this must-watch episode of MSP Unplugged, we welcome Matt Lee — Senior Director of Security and Compliance at Pax8, CISSP, CCSP, CFR, PNPT, and a leading voice in MSP cybersecurity. Matt has spent years raising the security bar for small and mid-sized MSPs. In this conversation, he breaks down practical, actionable strategies tailored for lean teams (under $3M revenue and Less 20 employees) who want to deliver strong cybersecurity without overwhelming overhead. Whether you're struggling with incident response planning, compliance, tool sprawl, or staying ahead of evolving threats, this episode delivers real-world insights from someone who truly understands the MSP world. What You'll Learn: Building effective incident response plans for small MSPs Navigating compliance (and why it matters even for tiny shops) Key cybersecurity trends and threats facing MSPs in 2026 How to shift risk and protect your clients (and your business) Practical tips for raising the "cybersecurity poverty line" in the SMB/MSP space Advice on tools, training, and building a security-first culture Connect with Matt Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cybermattlee/ Pax8: https://www.pax8.com Matt's Media & Resources: https://cybermattlee.com TechCon Unplugged Tickets: https://techconunplugged.com If you run a small MSP and want to level up your security game without the enterprise complexity, this is the episode for you! Drop your top takeaway or biggest security challenge in the comments 👇 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for weekly MSP growth, operations, and tech strategy content. #MSP #Cybersecurity #MSPUnplugged #MattLee #Pax8 #IncidentResponse #SmallMSP #Compliance #CyberThreats #ManagedServices

  • #306
    June 23 · 28 min

    Stop Alert Fatigue: Blumira's Approach to MSP Cybersecurity in 2026

    🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Greg Saenz from Blumira — a leading security operations platform built specifically for busy IT teams and MSPs. If you're running a small MSP (under $3M revenue and fewer than 20 employees), you know security is a massive opportunity — but also a huge headache. Blumira makes enterprise-grade SIEM, XDR, threat detection, and response simple, fast to deploy, and profitable for small teams. Learn how to add managed security services without hiring a full SOC, reduce alert fatigue, protect clients from ransomware, and grow your margins with a platform designed for MSPs. Perfect for bootstrapped MSP owners who want practical cybersecurity that doesn't overwhelm their limited resources. What You'll Learn: *How Blumira simplifies SIEM + XDR for small MSPs *Real-world deployment and daily operations for lean teams *The Blumira MSP Partner Program — incentives, support, and profitability *Cutting through alert noise with smart detections and response playbooks *Integrating security into your existing MSP stack without complexity *What's new in 2026 for MSP-focused security tools 👉 Resources & Links: Blumira MSP Partner Program: https://www.blumira.com/partners/managed-service-providers Blumira Demo: https://www.blumira.com/demo MSP Unplugged Community & Events: https://www.mspunplugged.com TechCon Unplugged: https://techconunplugged.com If you're an MSP owner struggling with security offerings, this episode delivers actionable insights you can use immediately. Drop your biggest security challenge in the comments below! 🔥 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more real-talk MSP growth, operations, and tech strategy every week. #MSP #Cybersecurity #SIEM #XDR #SmallMSP #MSPUnplugged #Blumira #ManagedServices #MSPGrowth #ThreatDetection

  • #305
    June 23 · 31 min

    MSP Leadership Lessons from Nancy Henriquez – Head of Community at MSP Unplugged

    🎙️ In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nancy Henriquez – two-time MSP founder, award-winning industry leader, business coach, author of "Break-Fix to Breakthrough," and the new Head of Community at MSP Unplugged. Nancy shares her battle-tested insights on moving from reactive chaos to strategic growth, building high-performing teams, client onboarding that sticks, sales & marketing systems that actually work for small MSPs, and what it really takes to scale under $3M revenue without losing your sanity or culture. Whether you're a solo operator, running a 5-15 person shop, or feeling stuck at the $1-3M plateau, this conversation is packed with practical advice tailored to bootstrapped MSP owners. What You'll Learn: * How Nancy built and exited award-winning MSPs (including MSP 501 recognition) * Breaking the break-fix cycle and building repeatable processes Leadership, team building, and avoiding burnout as a small MSP *The power of community and why it matters more than ever in 2026 Insights from Pax8 Beyond and the evolving MSP landscape with SuperOps 👉 Resources & Links: Connect with Nancy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyhenriquez/ MSP Unplugged Community: mspunplugged.com Nancy's Book / Speaking: nancyhenriquez.com TechCon Unplugged Tickets: https://techConunplugged.com If you're an MSP owner with under $3M in revenue and fewer than 20 employees, this episode is for YOU. Drop your biggest takeaway in the comments! 🔥 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more real-talk MSP growth strategies every week. #MSP #ManagedServices #MSPGrowth #SmallMSP #MSPUnplugged #NancyHenriquez #MSPLeadership #ITBusiness

  • #304
    June 8 · 41 min· Video

    The MSPaaS Revolution: Michael Amiri Reveals How MSPs Can Scale Smarter

    Michael Amiri joins MSP Unplugged to break down the emerging model of MSP-as-a-Service (MSPaaS) — a game-changing approach that's helping MSPs scale faster, reduce operational overhead, and deliver better outcomes to clients. In this episode, Michael shares: What MSP-as-a-Service really means and why it's gaining traction in 2026 How MSPaaS differs from traditional managed services models The biggest benefits and challenges of adopting an MSP-as-a-Service delivery model How MSPs can leverage platforms and partnerships to operate more efficiently Practical insights on transitioning your MSP toward this modern service model What the future holds for MSPs who embrace MSPaaS vs. those who don't Whether you're looking to modernize your MSP, reduce burnout, improve scalability, or stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market, this conversation delivers clear, actionable insights from someone deeply involved in the MSP-as-a-Service space. 🎥 Host: Paco Lebron Podcast: MSP Unplugged – The place to learn how to run your MSP. 🔗 Connect with Michael Amiri: Linkedin 🔗 MSP-as-a-Service: MSP-aaS Tune in every week for real talk on running and growing your MSP. Watch the full video on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Don't forget to grab your tickets for TechCon Unplugged Chicago – Sept 17-19 at TechConUnplugged.com Thank you for watching/listening — we'll see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #303
    May 29 · 40 min· Video

    From Startup to MSP 501: Antwine Jackson on Scaling Enitech Solutions

    Antwine Jackson, Founder & President of Enitech Solutions, joins MSP Unplugged to share his powerful journey from the early startup days to building a recognized, multi-office managed services provider in North Carolina. In this episode, Antwine opens up about: The real challenges of the first 1–3 years — cash flow, finding clients, and building credibility Key pivots that helped him move from break-fix to a thriving managed services model How he scaled Enitech Solutions to multiple locations (Raleigh + Charlotte) and earned MSP 501 recognition Leadership lessons, team building, and what separates "surviving mode" from "scaling mode" Advice for MSP owners currently in the messy early or growth stages of their business Whether you're just starting your MSP, stuck in the $500K–$2M range, or looking for inspiration from someone who's successfully grown over 13+ years, this episode is packed with honest stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical takeaways. Host: Paco Lebron Podcast: MSP Unplugged – The place to learn how to run your MSP. 🔗 Connect with Antwine & Enitech Solutions • Enitech Solutions: enitechsolutions.com • LinkedIn: Antwine Jackson Tune in every week for real talk on running and growing your MSP. Watch the full video on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Don't forget to grab your tickets for TechCon Unplugged Chicago – Sept 17-19 at https://www.techConunplugged.com Thank you for watching/listening — we'll see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #303
    May 19 · 36 min

    How to Scale an MSP with Partners: Derrick Wlodarz (FireLogic) Returns

    Derrick Wlodarz, Founder & President of FireLogic, returns to MSP Unplugged for a deep dive into long-term MSP growth and the power of strategic partnerships. In this returning guest episode, Derrick shares: What's changed at FireLogic since his last appearance How he's scaled the business over 15+ years from startup to a respected Chicago-area MSP The evolution of his approach to vendor and technology partners How to choose, manage, and get real value from partnerships (without partner sprawl) Lessons learned about scaling sustainably while building strong strategic alliances Advice for MSP owners looking to grow smarter in 2026 If you're an MSP owner focused on long-term growth, building better vendor relationships, or scaling without burning out, this conversation is full of practical, battle-tested wisdom from someone who's been in the trenches for over 15 years. Host: Paco Lebron Podcast: MSP Unplugged – The place to learn how to run your MSP. 🔗 Connect with Derrick & FireLogic • FireLogic: firelogic.com • LinkedIn: Search "Derrick Wlodarz FireLogic" Tune in every week for real talk on running and growing your MSP. Watch the full video on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Don't forget to grab your tickets for TechCon Unplugged Chicago – Sept 17-19 at https://techConUnplugged.com Thank you for watching/listening — we'll see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #302
    May 12 · 36 min

    Simplifying Cybersecurity for MSPs: Joe Sykora (CEO of Coro) on Tool Sprawl and AI in 2026

    Joe Sykora, CEO of Coro Cybersecurity, joins MSP Unplugged to discuss how MSPs can simplify their security stack, reduce tool sprawl, and deliver better protection to small and mid-sized businesses. In this episode, Joe shares: Why traditional multi-tool cybersecurity approaches are failing most MSPs How Coro's all-in-one, single-agent platform is changing the game for lean MSP teams The role of automation and AI in reducing alert fatigue What a truly MSP-friendly cybersecurity solution looks like in 2026 Practical advice on turning cybersecurity from a cost center into a profitable growth driver Insights from his extensive channel experience as a former MSP owner and vendor leader Whether you're struggling with too many security tools or looking to build a more efficient and profitable security offering, this conversation delivers actionable insights you can use immediately. Host: Paco Lebron Podcast: MSP Unplugged – The place to learn how to run your MSP. 🔗 Connect with Joe & Coro Cybersecurity • Coro Cybersecurity: coro.net • Coro Partner Program (Coro Compass) Tune in every week for real talk on running and growing your MSP. Watch the full video on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Don't forget to grab your tickets for TechCon Unplugged Chicago – Sept 17-19 at https://www.techConUnplugged.com Thank you for watching/listening — we'll see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #301
    April 24 · 26 min

    From Corporate IT Director to MSP Owner: Ron Cervantes on Building C Solutions IT

    Ron Cervantes, Founder and President of C Solutions IT in Orlando, Florida, joins MSP Unplugged to share his journey from corporate IT Director (managing IT for one of the largest transportation companies in the U.S.) to building and scaling a successful managed services provider. In this episode, Ron opens up about: Transitioning from enterprise IT to running his own MSP The early struggles and key pivots that helped him grow C Solutions IT Lessons learned serving small and mid-sized businesses in the Orlando market Building a strong team and delivering high-touch IT support + cybersecurity What he's seeing in the industry right now and advice for MSP owners at any stage Whether you're thinking about making the jump from corporate to entrepreneurship, currently in the early or growth stages of your MSP, or just want real-world insights from a fellow practitioner, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and relatable stories. Host: Paco Lebron Podcast: MSP Unplugged – The place to learn how to run your MSP. 🔗 Connect with Ron & C Solutions IT • Website: csolutionsit.com • LinkedIn: Ron Cervantes | LinkedIn Tune in every week for real talk on running and growing your MSP. Watch the full video on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Don't forget to grab your tickets for TechCon Unplugged Chicago – Sept 17-19 at https://www.techConUnplugged.com Thank you for listening — we'll see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #300
    April 2 · 53 min

    Google Gold for MSPs: Nate Freedman on Reviews, Local SEO & Lead Generation in 2026

    Nate Freedman of MSP Sites and TechPro Marketing joins MSP Unplugged to share battle-tested Google strategies that are actually generating leads for MSPs right now. In this episode, we break down how to turn Google into a predictable client acquisition engine — from turning Google Reviews into your #1 sales tool to optimizing your Google Business Profile, dominating local search, and adapting to AI-driven changes that are reshaping how prospects find MSPs in 2026. We cover: Why crossing 100 Google Reviews can boost your visitor-to-booked-call conversion by 40%+ The biggest mistakes MSPs make with Google tools that kill momentum Quick wins and playbooks to make your Google Business Profile a consistent lead generator How to evolve your Google strategy as AI Overviews and zero-click searches change the game The one Google-focused experiment Nate recommends MSPs run in the next 30-60 days Whether you're struggling with consistent lead flow or want to transform your website and Google presence into a reliable growth machine, this episode delivers practical, data-backed tactics from someone who manages marketing for over 100 MSPs and has helped generate 20,000+ high-quality leads. Host: Paco Lebron Podcast: MSP Unplugged – The place to learn how to run your MSP. 🔗 Resources from Nate Freedman: • MSP Sites: https://mspsites.com • Tech Pro Marketing: https://www.techpromarketing.com • MSP Lead Generation Services: https://www.techpromarketing.com/services/msp-lead-generation-services/ Tune in every week for real talk on running and growing your MSP. You can watch the full video episode on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Don't forget to grab your tickets for TechCon Unplugged Chicago – Sept 17-19 at TechConUnplugged.com Thank you for listening — we'll see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #299
    March 25 · 27 min

    From Chicago to Peoria: Pierre Anyansi on Proactive IT, Security & Building a Local MSP

    Pierre Anyansi of Any IT Support sits down with us to talk about his journey from network security engineering to founding a boutique IT company focused on proactive support, secure remote solutions, and helping small businesses grow through technology. We explore the "farming technology" philosophy, balancing home and business clients, turning education into prevention, and fortifying your own operations while supporting others. A raw, relatable conversation full of real-world lessons for MSP owners and IT pros working with smaller or regional clients. Tune in every Week. You can catch us Video podcast on Youtube.com/MSPUnplugged. Like, Subscribe and hit that notification button to be notified whenever a new episode is available. You can also take us on the go with your favorite podcatcher app show notes. Don't forget get your tickets at TechConunplugged.com Thank you for listening and we will see you next time on MSP Unplugged.

  • #298
    March 18 · 33 min

    Rick Smith Unplugged: Pivots, Hard Calls & the 2026 MSP Game Plan

    Co-host Rick Smith drops in for a reflective deep dive: Recent pivots that reshaped his MSP (and why some changes hurt before they helped), key lessons from the past year, and his no-BS predictions/advice for MSPs finishing Q1 strong and crushing the back half of 2026. If you're debating a big shift in your business—pricing, tools, culture, or strategy—this one's loaded with actionable takeaways from the trenches. Tune in weekly on https://youtube.com/mspunplugged for more actionable MSP advice. Like, subscribe, and hit notifications! Also available on your favorite podcast app. Don't forget tickets for TechConUnplugged at https://techconunplugged.com.

  • #297
    March 11 · 30 min· Video

    Should Your MSP Start a Podcast The Storytelling Advantage

    Podcasting is not about being famous. It is about being relevant. In this episode, Jose Torres of Dimelo Media and I talk about how storytelling helps MSPs build trust, create community, and stay top of mind. If you have ever wondered whether your MSP should start a podcast or how to do it the right way, this episode is for you.

  • February 24 · 43 min

    Secure Your Own House First: Degly Mendez on MSP Cyber Education

    In this insightful episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron welcomes Degly Mendez, CEO of Avanzar IT Systems (South Pasadena, CA) and Vice Chair of the GTIA ISAO Advisory Group. Degly shares his journey into MSP leadership, his focus on cybersecurity for small/mid-sized businesses, and practical ways to make education a real defensive layer. Key takeaways include: Building ongoing cybersecurity awareness for non-tech-savvy SMB clients (beyond one-offs like "Be Cyber Aware" sessions) — challenges, retention tips, and scaling methods (webinars, tools, gamified scenarios) Metrics and stories showing when education truly reduces incidents "Secure your own house first": Fortifying Avanzar internally (team training, processes, tough investments) to avoid being the weak link Common MSP pitfalls on internal security (vendor risks, tool sprawl, early practice drops) and how to fix them Using the "Run, Protect, Grow" IT budgeting framework to prioritize Protect (including people education) without it feeling like a cost sink Evolving programs for AI-driven threats/opportunities — recent changes to stay ahead Best advice for resource-constrained MSPs: Scaling education without burnout or client overload, plus one non-negotiable step to fortify your own business now Rapid-fire: Underrated resource/habit for scaling efforts, biggest "aha" on internal ops, and the one cyber education practice he'd mandate industry-wide Perfect for MSP owners, cybersecurity pros, and IT leaders focused on proactive defense, people-powered security, and leading by example in a resource-tight world. Tune in weekly on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged for more actionable MSP advice. Like, subscribe, and hit notifications! Also available on your favorite podcast app. Don't forget tickets for TechConUnplugged at TechConunplugged.com. #MSP #Cybersecurity #CyberEducation #MSPsecurity #RunProtectGrow #SMBcyber #ITLeadership

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