Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast

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

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

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...

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 trick...

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...

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...

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...

Ever feel like your MSP is drowning in data but starved for context? Jeffrey Newton, co-founder of CYFT, shares how his AI-driven platform is giving MSPs real-time situational awareness—automating documentation, enriching tickets, and ensuring techs have the right info before they even pick up a call. Listen to why “best practice” may not always be in your best interest and how CYFT is changing the game for MSPs who want to break free from the industry’s echo chamber.Why Listen:Hear how CYFT automates documentation and ticket enrichmentLearn why “best practice” may not always serve your MSPGet actionable insights for...

If you’ve ever dreamed of building your own home lab or wondered how to get started with Synology, Unraid, or TrueNAS, this episode is for you. Uncle Marv and Mike Weiger break down the pros and cons of each platform, explain the magic of Docker and containerization, and share practical tips for home automation and security. Get inspired to tinker, break, and learn—just like the pros do!Why Listen:Learn how to set up a powerful home lab on a budgetDiscover the best NAS solutions for your needsUnderstand Docker and containerization in plain EnglishGet tips for home automation and...

What if you could manage hundreds of Intune tenants without ever repeating the same task? Colin Britton shares how Devicie’s runbooks and automation tools make it possible, while also providing deep insights into endpoint health and security. Learn about their new Reporting Connector for Edge for Business and how it brings browser security into focus for modern IT environments. Why Listen:Find out how Devicie makes Intune management scalable and secureLearn about the latest automation and reporting featuresHear real-world examples of MSP and IT collaborationGet expert advice on managing complex Microsoft environmentsDiscover the future of agentic IT and automationColin Bri...

Eric Torres joins Uncle Marv to discuss the power of community, peer groups, and collaboration in the MSP industry. Eric shares his personal journey, the importance of vendor partnerships, and how PAX 8 is helping MSPs transition to MSP 3.0—where AI and intelligence drive business success.Eric shares his journey from Milwaukee to Melbourne, his passion for travel, and the importance of professional friendships in the IT channel. The conversation dives into the power of peer groups, the value of vendor collaborations, and how PAX 8 is helping MSPs navigate the transition to MSP 3.0—where AI and intelligence are at the forefront. Eric...

What does it take to lead product in a company that’s always pushing boundaries? Libby McIlhany shares her journey from software engineer to Chief Product Officer at PAX 8, revealing how she and her team are shaping the future of the IT marketplace. From the dot-com crash to the AI revolution, this episode is a masterclass in tech leadership.Why Listen:Gain perspective on the evolution of the IT channelHear how PAX 8 is innovating with public storefronts and integrationsLearn about the role of UX research in building world-class productsGet inspired by stories of resilience and adaptability in techUnderstand how to ma...

Ever wonder how to secure remote access without costly VPNs? DefensX’s new ZTNA product is designed for MSPs and enterprises, offering granular control and flexible deployment. Dave Maik explains why their approach is different—and why MSPs are raving about the ability to mix and match features to fit client needs. Why Listen:Hear the story behind DefensX’s Innovator Vendor of the Year awardExplore new ZTNA and browser security featuresLearn how DefensX supports MSPs with easy, flexible integrationsGain actionable advice for protecting against AI and browser-based attacksGet inspired by real-world success stories from the MSP communityCompanies, Products, and Books M...

Kim Simmonds, founder of Cloud Contracts 365, shares how her platform is transforming legal services for MSPs by automating contract creation, management, and risk review. With AI-powered tools, unlimited e-signatures, and direct access to US lawyers, MSPs of any size can now protect their business and grow with confidence.Why Listen:Learn how to automate contract management and risk review for your MSPDiscover the benefits of unlimited e-signatures and automated renewal remindersHear Kim’s inspiring journey from New York law to UK tech innovationGet insights on how legal tech is making legal protection affordable and accessibleFind out how Cloud Contracts 365 is he...

Uncle Marv and Corey Kirkendoll explore the latest developments in managed IT, from the impact of AI and automation to the importance of community and collaboration. They discuss memorable moments from recent conferences, including IT Nation Secure and Pax8 Beyond, and share insights on how to navigate information overload and make strategic technology choices. Corey emphasizes the need for MSPs to brand their offerings and maintain flexibility in their tech stack, while also highlighting the value of customer relationships and follow-up. Why Listen: Actionable Insights: Learn how to scale your MSP, leverage AI, and build a customer-focused business.Real-World Stories: He...

Brad Gross joins Uncle Marv to recap the PAX8 Beyond show in Denver, sharing first-hand insights as both an exhibitor and industry legal expert. They discuss the exhaustion and excitement of booth life, the launch of the MSP Terms cloud platform, and the critical new FTC rules on auto-renewals affecting MSPs and vendors. The episode covers legal pitfalls, vendor agreements, client lawsuits, and the importance of clear contracts and expectation management for MSPs.Why ListenGet expert legal advice on the new FTC auto-renewal rules impacting MSPs and vendors.Learn practical strategies for managing contracts and client expectations.Discover how MSP...

Join Uncle Marv and special guest Ryan Miller, CISO and vCISO at RootPoint, for a no-nonsense look at the new CMMC 2.0 rules shaking up the IT and MSP world. Ryan reveals why the Department of Defense’s phased rollout is set to cause chaos, why most MSPs are in for a rude awakening, and what it really takes to get compliant. Learn the differences between FCI and CUI, the truth about audit timelines, and why prime contractors might force you to Level 2—even if you think you’re safe at Level 1. Ryan also shares his personal strategies for mastering CMMC’s comple...

Why ListenExpert Insights: Hear from a home lab enthusiast and IT professional who has tested all major NAS solutions.Practical Advice: Learn how to choose the right NAS for your business or home lab, including hardware, support, and ecosystem considerations.Real-World Experiences: Gain valuable tips on network upgrades, virtualization, and self-hosting from someone who’s been there.Stay Informed: Understand the latest controversies and trends in the NAS world, including Synology’s recent changes.Inspiration: Discover how passion for technology can lead to innovative solutions, even outside of a traditional IT career.Companies, Products, and Books MentionedSynology – https://www.synology.comUnr...

Why Listen?This episode offers MSPs and IT professionals a rare look at a new, laser-focused security vendor shaking up the channel. Nathan Ostrowski shares insider insights on how machine learning can dramatically improve detection of business email compromise—a threat that’s growing by 300% year over year. Main HighlightsMarv welcomes Nathan Ostrowski, co-founder of Petra Security, to the show at IT Nation Secure in Orlando. They start with a lighthearted chat about Duke basketball and the unique culture of Cameron Indoor Stadium, including the legendary “tenting” tradition for game tickets. The conversation quickly turns to the serious business of cybersecu...

Uncle Marv and Danny Jenkins reconnect at IT Nation Secure in Orlando, reminiscing about Danny’s unforgettable Iron Man suit appearance at Zero Trust World—a suit that ended up being raffled off for charity, with a twist. The conversation quickly turns to ThreatLocker’s latest product updates: the user store for MSPs, which empowers users with approved app alternatives, and a powerful new web filtering tool that integrates real-time approval workflows. Danny details how ThreatLocker’s EDR capabilities have evolved, now featuring data exfiltration detection, automated policy responses, and integration with Windows Defender for even more granular control. He also sha...

Uncle Marv sits down with Mike DePalma, Vice President of Business Development at OpenText, at IT Nation Secure in Orlando. Mike shares his unique journey from Datto and Kaseya to OpenText, highlighting the company’s recent acquisitions and their impact on the MSP channel. He explains how OpenText’s cybersecurity stack—including Webroot, Zix, Carbonite, and Pillar—offers MSPs a single pane of glass for security and Microsoft licensing.Mike emphasizes OpenText’s commitment to flexible contracts, premium support, and the ability to offer free trials for every client. He discusses the importance of business efficiency and unique value propositions for MSPs...

Uncle Marv welcomes John Helms, Director of Product Management for Cybersecurity at ConnectWise, to discuss the latest in MSP security at IT Nation Connect. They cover ConnectWise’s new SIEM—available in Essentials and Pro versions—tailored for MSPs who need either basic monitoring or full-scale integration. John explains how ConnectWise leverages Elastic Security for a seamless, scalable solution, keeping all security tools in one place for MSPs.John’s career journey is a highlight, tracing his path from early ISP technician to leading product management at ConnectWise. He shares stories about the evolution of IT, the challenges of product manageme...

Ever feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle to keep your clients—and your MSP—safe from cyber threats? In this episode, Uncle Marv sits down with MacKenzie Brown from Blackpoint Cyber to talk about the real-world challenges and opportunities facing MSPs today.MacKenzie shares how Blackpoint’s Compass One platform is changing the game, giving MSPs a unified view of their security posture and helping them justify investments to clients. She also introduces MDR Essentials, a new, affordable option for MSPs who want to get started with advanced protection.“Compass One is really the unified platform to fix more proac...

Uncle Marv sits down with Liam Downward, co-founder and chief product officer of Cyrisma, at IT Nation Connect in Orlando. Liam shares his candid journey from MSP owner to cybersecurity innovator, revealing the pain points that inspired Cyrisma’s creation: tool overload, shrinking margins, and the need for affordable, accessible security. The discussion dives into how Cyrisma consolidates vulnerability management, data classification, dark web monitoring, and compliance into a single platform—helping MSPs increase efficiency and profitability.Key topics include strategies for increasing revenue without raising prices, the importance of defensibility in contracts, and how to turn risk visibility into a se...

Lynn Williams of ASCII joins Uncle Marv live from IT Nation Secure 2025 for her first-ever podcast appearance, sharing stories from the heart of the IT community. Hear about the latest ConnectWise innovations, the impact of ASCII’s Taste of Success events, and why building relationships is the secret weapon for MSPs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of IT.IT Nation Secure 2025 Highlights: Uncle Marv recaps the conference’s biggest announcements, including ConnectWise’s new endpoint management and security solution, SIEM updates, and the launch of PSA powered by ASIO.ASCII Group...

This episode dives deep into the recent DragonForce ransomware attack that targeted an MSP using the SimpleHelp RMM tool, compromising both the provider and its clients. Uncle Marv is joined by Dave Sobel, host of MSP Radio and The Business of Tech podcast, to analyze what went wrong and how MSPs can avoid similar fates. The conversation covers the critical importance of patching known vulnerabilities, the risks of on-premises RMM tools, and the shift toward cloud-based solutions for reducing attack surfaces.Dave Sobel highlights the aggressive tactics of DragonForce, their ransomware-as-a-service business model, and why attackers are increasingly exploiting RMM...

Uncle Marv welcomes back Lisa Shorr, a leading authority on personal branding and client experience for IT businesses, for a lively and insightful discussion on video meeting etiquette. After breaking down the latest cybersecurity threats, the conversation shifts to the “new normal” of remote and hybrid work, where your camera is your connection to clients and colleagues.Lisa explains why turning your camera on is non-negotiable, how to create a professional (yet authentic) background, and why leaders must model the behaviors they want their teams to follow. She shares coaching tips for helping technical staff shine on screen, discusses the impa...

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSQ4kIIBbRQ=== Join Uncle Marv and Rob Rae as they preview Pax8 Beyond 2025, the can’t-miss conference for managed service providers. Rob shares the inside story of how this event has grown into a global phenomenon, with plans for expansion into Europe and Southeast Asia. Listeners get a sneak peek at the conference’s unique approach: tailored education tracks for every MSP persona, a commitment to neutral, value-driven content, and a focus on real-world business growth.Rob also addresses the challenges of scaling a fast-growing company, the importance of transparency, and t...

Uncle Marv welcomes Syncro’s CEO Michael George and Chief Product Officer Dee Zepf for an in-depth conversation about the all-new XMM platform. Listeners get an insider’s look at how Syncro is addressing the biggest pain points for MSPs—integrating Microsoft 365 management, automating security baselines, and streamlining workflows within a single pane of glass. Michael and Dee share their journey from Continuum to Syncro, the risks and rewards of betting big on innovation, and how their partner-first approach is reshaping the MSP landscape.Key topics include Syncro’s unique per-technician pricing, the impact of private equity on MSP tools, and the...

Uncle Marv sits down with Nancy Henriquez, CEO of Sybil Consulting Group and a force for change in the MSP community. Nancy shares her journey from launching a break-fix shop at 22, building and selling her own MSP, working with SuperOps, and finally founding Sybil Consulting. She explains the origin of her company’s name, rooted in Greek mythology, and how her consulting approach is anything but conventional.Nancy discusses why she rejects cookie-cutter strategies, focusing instead on helping MSPs align their business models with personal values and ideal clients. She shares examples of how personal growth unlocks business growth and de...

Uncle Marv welcomes Nick Shevelyov, former CIO of Silicon Valley Bank and CEO of VCSO.AI, for a masterclass in cybersecurity storytelling and risk management. Nick shares how his unique journey—defending the innovation economy, banking tech giants, and advising boards—led him to write “Cyber War and Peace,” a book that uses analogies from history to make cyber risk relatable and actionable.Topics Discussed:The value of historical analogies in explaining cybersecurityBoard-level communication: Making cyber risk understandable and actionableManaging technical debt and legacy systems in fast-moving environmentsBuilding observability and setting baselines for network healthThe balance of security and privacy in compl...

Industry News: Chrome & Windows 10: Chrome’s password manager gets a major upgrade, offering one-click fixes for weak or compromised passwords, while Microsoft issues a crucial Windows 10 patch to fix a bug locking users out. Marv and Dawn break down what these updates mean for MSPs and their clients.MSP Differentiation & Business Models: Dawn discusses the commoditization of IT services and urges MSPs to identify their unique strengths, lean into what sets them apart, and avoid the trap of following “one right way” to run an MSP.Mental Health & Burnout in IT: The pressures of the MSP world are real, from client...

Uncle Marv welcomes back Paco Lebron for an episode packed with honest MSP talk, laughs, and a fresh take on community events. Hear why TechCon Unplugged is hitting the road this year, moving away from the big annual gathering to a more intimate, city-based tour designed to spark real connections and practical conversations. Paco pulls back the curtain on the challenges of standardizing IT stacks-swapping Araknis for Unify, wrestling with BYOD headaches, and the never-ending quest to make operations smoother for both clients and techs.They don’t shy away from the tough stuff: burnout, the grind of podcasting, and th...

In this lively episode of Uncle Marv’s IT Business Podcast, Marvin Bee sits down with Dustin Puryear, CEO and founder of Giant Rocketship, for a candid, insightful, and often hilarious conversation about the real-world challenges of automating helpdesk operations. Dustin, a former MSP owner himself, shares how Giant Rocketship is changing the game for IT service providers by using AI to optimize ticket flow, rebalance workloads, and keep both techs and clients happy-without losing the human touch that sets great MSPs apart.Why Listen?Get actionable strategies for automating your MSP’s helpdesk without losing the human touch.Learn how...

Main Theme & Key TakeawaysThis episode centers on resilience-how IT professionals juggle demanding projects, unexpected technical hurdles, and personal upheaval, all while staying ahead of industry changes. Marv’s firsthand stories and practical advice make this episode a masterclass in adaptability, resourcefulness, and the importance of community in tech.Three Most Intriguing MomentsMarv’s behind-the-scenes account of completing a massive, months-long Office 365 migration-what went wrong, what he’d never do again, and the surprising “gotchas” every IT pro should hear.A suspenseful network troubleshooting saga: how a 95% successful client office move was nearly derailed by mysterious VPN dropouts and duplicate IP conflicts...

In this compact midweek episode, Uncle Marv opens by explaining his upcoming client office move in Tampa, which involves coordinating with cable providers, moving copiers, handling door access systems, and managing ISP cutover with limited preparation time.He then covers significant industry news from the recent Kaseya Connect 2025 conference, including the release of Kaseya 365 Ops platform, a new SIEM solution, and notably, free Datto backup hardware with three-year commitments. Additional news highlights ESET's integration with Kaseya VSA X, Huntress's enhanced identity threat protection that has already protected over 1.8 million identities, and Synchro's new XMM platform that consolidates RMM, PSA, and...

Uncle Marv sits down with Steve Kazan, founder and CEO of Inner Onion and current president of NSITSP. Steve shares his unique perspective on helping international tech companies break into the U.S. market and offers a wealth of wisdom for managed service providers (MSPs) looking to stand out and grow. Drawing on two decades of experience across sectors like cybersecurity, SaaS, AI, and IoT, Steve discusses the importance of strategic planning, building trust, and adapting to the fast-paced world of technology.Listeners will hear Steve’s take on why so many international companies struggle to gain traction in the U...

Keith Nelson reveals how a relentless focus on customer service and measurable business outcomes has powered his 26-year streak of zero downtime at Vistem Solutions. His passion for advocacy—both for special needs communities and for MSPs navigating new regulations—offers listeners a blueprint for building resilient, high-impact IT businesses. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for anyone looking to stand out in the crowded MSP landscape.Keith Nelson’s IT Journey and Vistem Solutions: Keith shares how he built Vistem Solutions into a leading MSP, supporting critical infrastructure like the LA/Long Beach shipping port with 26 years of uninte...

This week, Uncle Marv catches up with Lynn Thames of Thames Consulting Group, who returns to the podcast after several years away—and a lot has changed. Lynn opens up about her journey from working solo out of her home to running a thriving boutique MSP with an office and a trusted employee. She shares the story of how she found the perfect team member (who started with zero IT background but tons of curiosity and hands-on skills), and how that hire transformed her work-life balance.Lynn shares why she intentionally stays small, focusing on clients with five users or le...

Uncle Marv launches a special three-part series, "Auvik vs Domotz," bringing together two experienced MSP leaders to compare the industry's top network monitoring platforms. Robinson Roca of Helient Technologies shares how Auvik’s intuitive interface, powerful NetFlow analytics, and seamless Autotask integration have transformed his team’s troubleshooting and client transparency. Meanwhile, Darcy Wilson from 365 Technologies highlights Domotz’s standout reverse proxy feature, IT Glue integration, and the ease of rolling out proactive monitoring across multi-site clients.Both guests emphasize the importance of reducing downtime, empowering junior techs, and delivering worry-free IT to clients. They also discuss the value of vendor...