Podcasts, articles, and reference materials for Managed Service Providers. Produced by MSP Radio
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The episode’s primary focus centers on the introduction of China-based Alibaba's new artificial intelligence (AI) model, which is positioned to rival existing US-developed models. This development has triggered concerns within the US federal government regarding the potential superiority of these foreign AI models and resulting security and data governance risks. The discussion further noted that…
Private equity (PE) acquisition trends in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) sector are targeting smaller firms at increasing rates, with offers now being extended to MSPs in the $1–3 million revenue range. PE activity, once limited to companies exceeding $5 million in annual revenue, is now resulting in more than half of current offers for these smaller businesses coming from large financial…
A key focus of the episode is on practical approaches to conducting pre-sales assessments for prospective managed service clients, particularly those with existing MSP relationships and under 100 employees. Hosts discussed that frontline assessment methods often prioritize observational “walk-arounds” and targeted questioning rather than the deployment of specialized tools, except in cases where…
A significant development discussed in the SMB Community Podcast episode highlights the evolving Microsoft Partner Program. Microsoft has updated its partner program at the start of its fiscal year, introducing new opportunities and incentives. Notable changes include the loosening of Agent365 licensing, allowing its addition to Business Premium licenses and other tiers, and offering a 25%…
The episode addressed the heightened challenges MSPs and IT service providers face in client acquisition, with specific reference to a recent Kaseya report indicating that twice as many MSPs describe obtaining new clients as more difficult compared to the previous year. This shift is attributed, in part, to changes in marketing efficacy and the increased reliance on referrals rather than…
The episode prioritizes the operational and exit-planning risks associated with MSPs lacking formal contracts. According to Amy , approximately half of MSP business owners operate without managed service agreements (MSAs), a decision that frequently results in reduced business valuation during sale negotiations. Both James and Amy emphasized that the absence of documented agreements is commonly…
The conversation focused on the practice of providing managed service pricing to customers during an initial meeting. One concept discussed was that MSPs are encountering prospects who increasingly expect immediate, transparent pricing, with many decision-makers opting to make choices after a single round of vendor meetings. The discussion explored how this shift contrasts with traditional…
The episode’s principal focus is on managing employee compensation requests within MSP operations, specifically addressing scenarios in which employees request significant raises. The discussion highlights the need for MSP leaders to weigh current market rates and organizational financial constraints in response to such requests. Both collaborative problem-solving—engaging employees in discussions…
A significant regulatory development affecting MSPs was discussed: the US Government ordered the suspension of access to the Fable 5 and Mythos 5 AI models by any foreign national, including those inside and outside the United States, citing national security authorities. As reported in the Anthropic company statement, this directive forced abrupt discontinuation of these AI tools for all…
A central discussion in the podcast focused on the applicability of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) for small Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Divergent perspectives were presented regarding whether the EOS framework is suitable for MSPs with very few staff. The conversation highlighted that while EOS provides accountability, transparency, and structured communication, some very small…
Discussion centered on the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the MSP technology stack, emphasizing the necessity for MSPs to deploy tools that can comprehensively manage AI, particularly concerning security and shadow IT. Multiple participants highlighted the lack of current solutions that aggregate and control AI activity via a single interface, with an explicit focus on the…
A central development addressed is the projected effect of AI on the per-seat pricing model that underpins many MSP service offerings. According to the discussion, AI could reduce white-collar jobs by 30-50%, leading to fewer user seats for MSPs to support and bill for. This scenario presents significant revenue risk for MSPs reliant on per-user contracts. The discussion also references…
The most consequential development discussed is the rapid proliferation of Shadow IT in client environments, with emphasis on the unchecked adoption of cloud SaaS applications and artificial intelligence (AI) tools by end users. Speakers noted that this has led to a substantial loss of MSP control over client IT environments, eroding trusted advisor status and prompting clients to question the…
Recent reports highlight that Google Chrome and Anthropic’s desktop applications have introduced covert, non-optional downloads onto user devices without explicit notification or opt-out mechanisms. According to referenced analysis, Chrome has been silently installing its Gemini Nano AI model, and Anthropic’s Claude desktop app is deploying browser integrations across all Chromium-based browsers.…
Employee recognition structures and their risk-reduction implications received primary focus in this discussion. Both Amy Babinchak and James Kernan outlined verification-based strategies, such as leveraging Microsoft Teams' Praise app and Bonusly, a peer-to-peer micro-bonus platform, as cost-neutral or low-cost starting points. They emphasized that implementing structured recognition—either…
Compensation models for technical staff in MSPs require careful alignment with business objectives and operational capacity. Both James Kernan and Amy Babinchak emphasized that financial incentives such as commissions or bonuses can be appropriate when technicians are directly responsible for generating additional monthly recurring revenue (MRR) or securing new accounts. However, they noted that…
A central theme of the episode is the challenge of communicating and defending pricing for managed services. Amy Babinchak and James Kernan described frequent client objections regarding cost, focusing on the importance of articulating clear value propositions. They noted that most client resistance either stems from an inadequate understanding of the provider’s value, or from attempts to…
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) face measurable hurdles when scaling businesses past certain revenue thresholds, particularly the $10 million annual mark. The episode’s primary focus is the operational and sales methodologies implemented by Brian Strong, who reported helping lead an MSP from $2.2 million to $19 million in annual revenues over five years. This growth was attributed to instituting…
NinjaOne’s reported growth and positioning within the MSP software landscape presents a notable development for service providers evaluating vendor ecosystems. According to statements reviewed by Ryan Morris and Dave Sobel, NinjaOne claims an annual recurring revenue (ARR) exceeding $500 million, a valuation above $5 billion, and a customer base of more than 35,000. This self-reported data, while…
The episode centers on profit margins and service mix strategies for MSPs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining recurring revenue margins above 50%, preferably targeting 65–70% for long-term sustainability. Industry averages indicate recurring revenue margins as low as 35%, which Speaker B and Speaker C note presents a risk to driving profit down to the bottom line. The discussion identifies…
Microsoft’s decision to increase pricing across its Microsoft 365 product suite, excluding Business Premium, is a notable development for MSPs and IT service providers managing client subscriptions and budgets. According to discussion on the SMB Community Podcast, the price hikes range from 8% to 30% across various plans and products, with only Business Premium escaping the adjustment while still…
https://www.theinformation.com/articles/iran-war-imperils-300-billion-gulf-ai-spending?utm_campaign=article_email&utm_content=article-16718&utm_medium=email&utm_source=sg The war: The USA has bombed three data centers owned by Amazon. This is the first time I've seen data centers be targets. It won't be the last. The war: Middle eastern countries have promised $300 billion in AI infrastructure…
A significant risk area discussed is the challenge of “invisible work” in managed services due to increasing automation and the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). Customers, according to participants, increasingly lack awareness of the work being performed on their behalf, which raises doubts about the value of services provided by MSPs. With prices for services escalating, clients are…
The most consequential development highlighted in the episode is Anthropic’s refusal to alter its AI contract terms for the US federal government, specifically regarding the prohibition of mass domestic surveillance and the deployment of autonomous lethal robots. Anthropic declined to allow the government unrestricted, legally permitted use of its software, resulting in the cancellation of a $200…
The primary discussion in the episode centers on the increasing risk to data privacy posed by the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) applications within SMB environments. Panelists highlighted the challenge of educating clients on how AI systems may access, process, and transmit sensitive information, sometimes integrating client data into broader training datasets owned by third parties.…
This Week's Highlights: 1. Elevating Your Business Conversations Ever feel anxious about those business-focused meetings with customers? You’re not alone! In this episode, Amy Babinchak and James Kernan share their personal experiences—like ice-breakers for introverts, why finding common ground matters, and how to move the business convo from awkward to actionable. Here’s Amy’s advice: listen…
In this episode, hosts James Kernan and Amy Babinchak dive into practical insights for MSPs and IT service providers, powered by Small Biz Thoughts. They kick things off by tackling the question of the week: What should you say in front of a crowd of 100 decision makers if you only have five minutes? James Kernan and Amy Babinchak share strategies for making a memorable impact and overcoming…
In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosted by James Kernan, guest Amy Slater from Innovative Events discusses her transition from the medical field to marketing and events. Amy shares insights on how her company helps MSPs with their marketing, including detailed strategies and processes. She emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in marketing and how her team ensures…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, Amy interviews Steve Shattuck, VP of Global Partner Ecosystem and Business Development at GoTo. Steve shares his extensive background with AI from his tenure at Hewlett Packard Enterprise and discusses the transformative impact AI is having on the MSP industry. They delve into how AI can enhance rather than eliminate technician roles, the…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, our host James Kernan welcomes Justin Maxwell of Big Life Financial to discuss crucial changes in the tax law surrounding R&D tax credits for tech companies. They delve into the history and importance of the R&D tax credits, misconceptions about qualification, and the significant financial benefits these credits can bring. Maxwell emphasizes…
Overview: Exploring the Future of MSPs: AI, Cybersecurity, and Building Trust In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, host James Kernan interviews Tim Thomson, founder of Cyber Trends, who shares insights on the future opportunities for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in 2026. They discuss the role of AI and automation, the importance of cybersecurity and compliance, and strategies for…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss their upcoming travel plans and the busy start to 2026. They tackle a key listener question about how much to invest in training for IT teams, emphasizing the importance of continuous education and proposing strategies for incorporating both free and paid training within organizations. Additionally, they cover…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James and Amy discuss the key challenges and opportunities MSPs (Managed Service Providers) will face in 2026. They emphasize the importance of AI integration, staff training, tool consolidation, and strategic partnerships. They also highlight the need for MSPs to focus on soft skills and personal customer interactions, as AI takes over…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James Kernan and Amy Babinchak discuss various strategies for IT professionals and MSPs to monetize AI by 2026. The conversation begins with a recount of Amy's experience with extreme weather in Michigan and swiftly transitions into the main topic - how AI can be incorporated into IT services. They explore different approaches taken by…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James Kernan and Amy Babinchak discuss the top opportunities for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) looking ahead to 2026. They focus on the importance of AI integration, data management, and the need for proper training, as well as compliance and governance issues. They also touch on the ongoing trends in mergers and acquisitions within…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss a range of topics from winter weather arriving early to significant layoffs in the tech industry for 2025. They delve into the complexities and best practices of raising prices for MSPs and share insights on strategic cost-cutting. The episode also touches on interesting historical hacking anecdotes, CIA…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James and Amy kick off with a weather update from Michigan and Nebraska and discuss the changing nature of fall leaf collection. The conversation then shifts to the MSP question of the week, focusing on the best KPIs and metrics for MSP CEOs, emphasizing the importance of role-specific indicators. They explore financial and performance…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss the evolving landscape of IT distribution and whether it is becoming obsolete. They reminisce about the days when IT professionals relied heavily on specific distributors and how the market shift has changed their role. They also touch on the U.S. Senate passing the budget bill, LinkedIn's top 50 startup list for…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss the importance of timely year-end planning for IT professionals, suggesting October as the ideal start time for preparation. They cover effective strategies for developing annual goals, emphasizing the need for a personalized approach and tactical objectives. The hosts also examine the recent cloud outages from AWS…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss strategies for IT professionals to finish the year on top, including sales tips, inventory reduction, and tax advantages through IRS Tax Code Section 179. They also delve into the feasibility and future of humanoid household robots, debating their practicality and cost. Additionally, they touch on industry news…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosted by James Kernan, special guest Leslie Dewey, CEO of Sweetwater Street, shares her expertise on artificial intelligence (AI). Leslie discusses her background in media and security, which led her to a passion for AI. She provides insights into AI literacy, automation benefits, and practical tips for business owners to integrate AI into…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, James Kernan interviews Kevin Schmidt from Coalition. They discuss the importance of cybersecurity and cyber risk management, focusing on Coalition's comprehensive approach that integrates cyber insurance with cybersecurity solutions. Kevin highlights the unique aspects of Coalition's services, which include active insurance and real-time…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James and Amy discuss weekend highlights and then dive into crucial advice for improving monthly cash flow for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They emphasize the importance of collecting payments upfront, managing monthly subscription income, and understanding monthly burn rates. They also cover consumer insights, including the rise…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss the monetization of AI for MSPs, leveraging existing skills and tools such as Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT. They encourage MSPs to differentiate themselves by adopting AI technologies and utilizing available marketing funds. The hosts address the potential lapse of the CISA Act, the importance of upgrading to…
Overview: Exploring Results Software with CEO Sam Saab and CRO Bob Lewis In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, host James Kernan interviews Sam Saab, CEO and Founder, and Bob Lewis, Chief Revenue Officer of Results Software. The discussion covers the origins of the company, the features and functionalities of their software, and their focus on servicing various industry verticals such as…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James and Amy are back to discuss a wide range of topics relevant to the MSP community. The episode begins with professional insights, starting with advice on purchasing a local competitor MSP and moving on to broader industry trends. They discuss the impact of major companies restructuring for AI, changes in H-1B visa regulations…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss a variety of tech topics relevant to IT professionals. They start by sharing personal anecdotes about their preferences for coffee and tea before diving into recent changes in the Microsoft Partner Program, emphasizing the importance of meeting revenue requirements. The conversation then shifts to Oracle's…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss various topics relevant to the IT professional community. A significant segment is dedicated to addressing the ongoing debate of per seat versus per device pricing models in Managed Service Providers (MSP), emphasizing the evolving nature of MSP pricing strategies. The hosts further explore the economy's impact on…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James and Amy are back to discuss various strategies for making MSP companies more valuable before a sale, including eliminating red flags, organizing business documentation, and having a clear elevator pitch. They also talk about industry trends such as the growing demand for specialized services like cloud computing and cybersecurity,…
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss various topics including the shift in weather in the Midwest, the importance of developing an AI practice for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), and insights from top MSP executives about AI in the workforce. Amy highlights her AI course for MSPs, emphasizing the need for an AI acceptable use policy. The hosts also…
