MSP Unplugged
Technology
About
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.
Episodes
- 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 sin…
- 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 traditi…
- 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 scali…
- 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 clien…
- 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 throu…
- 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 c…
- 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 whet…
- 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…
- MSP Leadership Strifes: Marcial Velez on Culture, Burnout & Growth
In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron welcomes back Marcial Velez, Founder & CEO of Xperteks—a nationally recognized NYC-based MSP honored on CRN's MSP 500 list multiple years running. Marcial opens up about the real…
- Making IT Boring: Boutique MSP Lessons w/ Sean Inman of Inman Technology Solutions
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron sits down with Sean Inman, CISSP, Founder & CEO of Inman Technologies in Fort Worth, TX. Sean shares his journey from enterprise information security to launching his own MSP in 2018, driv…
- Classic Replay: The LinkedIn Advantage – Unlock MSP Leads with LinkedIn
Flashback Tuesday: Fan-Favorite Edition! Kicking off the week with one of our all-time most requested episodes — the LinkedIn masterclass that MSP owners and pros keep circling back to for serious business wins. In this evergreen episode o…
- Sell a Copier! with Chris Cool
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron sits down with Chris Cool, Founder and CEO of Cool Technology Group Inc., a Houston/Texas-based managed IT services provider specializing in cybersecurity, cloud solutions, remote/on-site…
- Back in the Studio: MSP Updates, Big Changes & Lessons Learned
Paco's back in the studio after a packed stretch — welcome to the first episode of MSP Unplugged's return! Catch up on the latest: Quick tips & tricks: Affordable branded backups with Aaron's Auto Glass Fabs (just $66!), seamless data migr…
- New Year Catch-Up: Jeff Halash Returns After 4 Years!
Join us live right before we ring the new year as we reconnect with Jeff Halash, former host of the Computer Repair Podcast and MSP Unplugged. After four years away, Jeff shares what he's been up to, his thoughts on the MSP industry today,…
- UniFi Ubiquiti: One Year Later – Lessons Learned & Pro Tips
In this Christmas Eve Edition, We discuss our Network Upgrade Insights at ProdigyTeks! Join us as our very own John Dubinsky joins the podcast to discuss our journey from our previous network provider to UniFi network equipment. We'll cove…
- Larry Meador and Cavelo: Elevating MSP Channel Success with Cybersecurity Innovation
Discover how industry veteran Larry Meador, Cavelo's new Channel Chief, is transforming the MSP channel. Cavelo empowers Managed Service Providers with a unified Attack Surface Management and Data Security Posture Management platform—offer…
- Justin Gilliam's Journey Into the MSP World | Bacheler Technologies Story
Justin Gilliam of Bacheler Technologies shares his journey into the MSP space. From early challenges to building a thriving business. Tune in to hear how he carved his path and what's next for his MSP adventure. Full Video Podcast Link: ht…
- How XCtium Climbed to #9 on MSP 501: Russ Reeder's Vision for the Future
📍"XTIUM's CEO Russ Reeder shares his vision for scaling the company both organically and through strategic mergers and acquisitions. Discover how AI is shaping their future and the journey that propelled them to rank #9 on the prestigious…
- Xperteks Big Reveal: Marcial Velez Drops New Innovations at MSP Summit
Marcial Velez from Xperteks shares inspiring stories and unveils innovative solution live from the MSP Summit. 📍 Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. 🔗 Learn more about the summit: MSP Summit 2025 Overview: https://themspsummit.co…
- Inside the MSP Summit: Kelly Danziger on Informa's Vision for the Channel & MSP Summit
In this exclusive interview, Kelly Danziger—General Manager and VP of Channel at Informa Tech—shares her journey into the tech space and the strategic direction Informa is taking to elevate the Channel Partners Expo and MSP Summit. 🎙️ Top…
- EP 281 Securing the Stack with Todyl
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, we catch up with Ken Patterson from Todyl, recorded on-site at PAX8 Beyond. Ken shares how Todyl is helping MSPs simplify and strengthen their security stack through an all-in-one platform approach—em…
- EP 284 Get Your Stuff Together with Better Tracker
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Kevin Lancaster from Channel Program to explore a game-changing new tool designed to streamline operations for MSPs — Better Tracker . If you've ever felt overwhelmed by vendor chaos, miss…
- EP 283 Summer Recap & What's Next for MSP Unplugged
We're back in the studio! After a summer packed with live recordings, travel, and behind-the-scenes hustle, we're kicking things off with a full recap episode. In this laid-back session, we catch you up on everything we've been working on—…
- EP 282 Putting MSPs First – GTIA's New Era
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Dan Wensley, CEO of GTIA, to unpack the powerful transformation of the Global Technology Industry Association. Dan shares how GTIA is shifting from certification-focused roots to becoming…
- EP 280 Legacy in Action – The Kenyatta Computers Story
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nahjee Maybin, CEO of Kenyatta Computer Services, a Denver-based MSP. Nahjee shares how he's building on the legacy his father began—transforming Kenyatta Computers from a family vision in…
- EP 279 Navigating Information with OpenText
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we're joined by Mike DePalma, VP of Business Development at OpenText. OpenText is a global leader in information management software, helping organizations—especially MSPs—securely capture, store, manage,…
- EP 278 Live from Pax8 Beyond with Rob Rae
What would a visit to Pax8 Beyond be without a conversation with the legendary Rob Rae? In this episode, Rob joins us to discuss the latest developments at Pax8 and trends shaping the IT services industry. We also dive into why this is the…
- EP 277 Elevating MSPs with 5G: The Rythmz Advantage
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, recorded at PAX8 Beyond, we sit down with Leonard Dimiceli, VP of Channel at Rythmz . Rythmz is opening up new opportunities for MSPs in the 5G space, helping providers deliver enhanced connectivity a…
- EP 276 Checking in with Checkpoint – Live from PAX8 Beyond
In this on-site episode of MSP Unplugged, we're live from PAX8 Beyond with special guest Dave Meister, Global Channel Leader at Check Point Software Technologies. We sit down with Dave to talk about the evolving cybersecurity landscape, ho…
- EP 275 Live from TechCon Unplugged – Chicago Road Show!
In this special live episode of MSP Unplugged, recorded at the TechCon Unplugged Road Show in Chicago, we shift the focus from problems to solutions. Following our March session in New Jersey where we asked, "What keeps you up at night?" ,…
- EP 274 Here Comes MSPOGs
Live from Pax8 Beyond 25 in Denver, CO! In this special on-the-road episode, Rick Smith and Corey Kirkendoll sit down with Juan Fernandez and Paco Lebron to talk about their bold new venture: MSPOgs — a platform built by MSPs for MSPs. We…
- EP 273 What's in your Tool Bag? Choosing the Right Stack for Your MSP
In this week's episode of MSP Unplugged, we open up the digital tool bag—not to list brands or promote platforms, but to talk strategy. Whether you're building your MSP from scratch or re-evaluating your tech stack, this conversation is ab…
- EP 272 Vendor Loyalty: Embracing Innovation and Excellence with Our New Partner
Breaking up with a vendor is only the beginning. In this week's MSP Unplugged, we take you behind the scenes of what happens next. We share how we prepared, planned, and executed the transition to a new vendor—without disrupting service or…
- EP 271 Microsoft 365 Essentials for MSPs: Tools, Tips, and Best Practices
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we break down how we use Microsoft 365 to run a lean, secure, and efficient MSP. From managing clients and automating workflows to enhancing security and collaboration, we share our favorite tools, real-wo…
- EP 270 Vendor Break-ups: When Staying Costs More Than Leaving
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we dive into a topic every MSP faces eventually: when it's time to part ways with a vendor. Whether it's poor support, broken promises, rising costs, or lack of innovation, sticking with the wrong vendor c…
- The LinkedIn Advantage: Boosting Your MSP Presence
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we're joined by Richard Bliss, founder of BlissPoint Consulting and a recognized expert in LinkedIn branding and social selling. Richard shares powerful, actionable strategies for leveraging LinkedIn as a…
- EP 267 The Importance of Compliance for MSPs
For Managed Service Providers (MSPs), compliance is particularly critical because they often manage sensitive data, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity for multiple clients across various industries—each with its own regulatory demands. i…
- Exploring the Changing Landscape: An Interview with ESET
Join Paco as he sits down with Cameron Tousey and Tony Anscombe to delve into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. In this insightful interview, they discuss ESET's perspective on the latest trends and how Managed Service Providers (MS…
- EP 266 Improving Client Onboarding Processes
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, Rick, and Corey dive into one of the most critical (and often overlooked) parts of the client journey—onboarding. We break down what's working, what's not, and how we've each improved our own onboarding pr…
- EP 265 MSP Success Stories: Lessons from the Field
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down for a candid conversation about our own journeys in the MSP space. We're sharing real-world experiences, wins, mistakes, and the lessons we've learned along the way. From early struggles to bre…
- EP 264 Tools Every MSP Should Know About
Live from our Newark stop on our TechCon Unplugged Tour! In this podcast, we discuss tools we believe every MSP should have in their arsenal. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/AbYtK8msfTk -------------------------------------------…
- EP 263 Beyond Busy: Finding Flow in a Hectic World
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we tackle one of the biggest challenges for IT business owners—time management. Running an MSP means juggling client support, operations, sales, and everything in between. So, how do you stay productive wi…
- EP 262 Exploring AI-Driven Service Desk Solutions
🤖 Exploring AI-Driven Service Desk Solutions | MSP Unplugged 🚀 In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we explore how AI-driven service desk solutions are revolutionizing the way MSPs deliver IT support. With the rapid advancements in artifici…
- EP 261 Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small Businesses
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we dive into cybersecurity best practices that every MSP should implement for their small business clients. With cyber threats on the rise, following a recognized security framework—such as NIST, CIS, or I…
- EP 260 Navigating Industry Conferences: Maximizing ROI
Attending industry conferences can be a game-changer for your MSP, but only if you know how to make the most of them. In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we dive into strategies for maximizing your return on investment (ROI) at conferences—c…
- EP 259 Case Study: Overcoming Business Challenges
In this episode Paco and Rick go down memory lane and share business challenges they had to overcome throughout their MSP career. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/TizS_rB_Uwo --------------------------------------------------- Con…
- EP 258 Automation for MSP Efficiency: Tools and Tips
In this episode, we discuss how and when we use automation to streamline operations in our MSP. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/V3mXAE6htug --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------…
- EP 257 Breaking Up with Your Vendor: A Guide to Better Partnerships
In this episode we dive into the often tricky but essential process of evaluating vendor relationships. Whether it's poor communication, lack of support, or a misalignment with your business goals, sometimes it's time to cut ties and move…
- EP 256 MSP Business Growth: Proven Strategies
Happy New Year! To start the year off the crew discusses some proven strategies we have had success with! Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/OmjO9lBWutI --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! ----------…
- EP 255 End of Year Wrap-Up
In this episode, In this episode, our hosts wrap-up 2024. Their hits, their misses, and their plans for 2025! Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/QJTT_fa4YGM --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! ------…