Episodios

  • New Years: 2026 Strategy/Planning
    Nov 13 2025

    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 and Azure, stressing the importance of diversifying cloud services. They touch on the growing presence of AI in technology and its implications for MSPs. Additionally, they explore the upcoming 50th anniversary of Apple and the rumors surrounding new product releases. The episode concludes with tips on maintaining high customer service standards and the excitement of holiday preparations.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:54 MSP Question of the Week: New-Year Planning 08:51 News Highlights: AWS Outage 12:22 Tech Talk: Apple's 50th Anniversary and AI Innovations 14:41 Economic Insights: Tech Layoffs and MSP Growth 20:02 AI in Browsers and MSP Strategies 21:10 Holiday Preparations and Personal Stories 24:42 Conclusion and Farewell

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    25 m
  • How To Finish The Year Strong
    Oct 30 2025

    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 such as the rising dominance of AMD processors, recent Microsoft 365 outages, and the importance of outcome-based funding over traditional MDF. The episode wraps up with details on an AI class and an upcoming Mastermind event in Newport Beach.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Greetings

    01:03 Weather and Seasonal Changes

    02:07 MSP Question of the Week: Finishing the Year Strong: Tips and Strategies

    08:07 The Future of Household Robots

    14:15 Business and Tech News Highlights

    25:58 Upcoming Events and Courses

    27:53 Conclusion and Farewell

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    28 m
  • Enhancing AI Literacy for IT Professionals: An Interview with Leslie Dewey
    Oct 27 2025

    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 their operations. The conversation also covers the importance of AI training, the challenges of data security, and ways to leverage AI as a competitive advantage. Leslie emphasizes the need for responsible AI use and offers guidance on navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction to the SMB Community Podcast

    00:43 Meet Leslie Dewey: AI Guru and CEO of Sweetwater Street

    01:13 Leslie's Journey into AI and Security

    01:57 Sweetwater Street's Mission and AI Literacy

    04:09 AI in Business: Benefits and Applications

    05:57 Tips and Tricks for Using AI Tools

    09:03 Deep Research and Competitive Analysis with AI

    11:22 Monetizing AI and Data Security Challenges

    15:46 Conclusion and Contact Information

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    17 m
  • Exploring Cyber Risk Management: An Interview with Kevin Schmidt
    Oct 23 2025

    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 risk assessments. He explains how their platform helps service providers discuss cybersecurity as a business risk, emphasizing the financial impact of cyber incidents on SMBs. Kevin also outlines their strategic partner program and upcoming events. Listeners are encouraged to contact Kevin for more information about Coalition's offerings and how they can collaborate.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction to the SMB Community Podcast

    01:06 Kevin Schmidt's Background and Career Journey

    02:12 Overview of Coalition Security's Services

    05:40 Deep Dive into Coalition's Cyber Risk Management Platform

    11:17 Engaging with Coalition: How MSPs Can Benefit

    16:18 Why Choose Coalition?

    19:06 Upcoming Events and Future Plans for Coalition

    20:14 How to Get in Touch with Coalition

    21:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    22 m
  • Optimizing Monthly Cashflows for MSPs
    Oct 16 2025

    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 of 'silver startups' among older generations and increasing tech budgets for cloud, cybersecurity, and AI. Finally, industry updates include the appointment of a new VP of Global Channel Sales at Microsoft and insights from a recent OpenText cybersecurity survey.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:37 Weekend Recap

    04:08 MSP Question of the Week: Improving Monthly Cash Flow

    09:55 Industry News: New Channel Leader at Microsoft

    11:11 Industry News: OpenText Cybersecurity Survey

    14:06 Industry News: SMBs Increasing Tech Budgets

    16:47 Silver Startups on the Rise

    20:47 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    24 m
  • Maximizing AI: Leverage and Monetization
    Oct 9 2025

    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 Windows 11, and California's new AI legislation. They also highlight changing buyer demographics and emphasize the need for modern engagement strategies. Additionally, the show covers recent news, including the Justice Department's fine on Lumina and previews upcoming events and mastermind sessions.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Greetings

    01:56 MSP Question of the Week: Monetizing AI for MSPs

    04:23 Microsoft's AI Tools and Resources

    10:14 Cybersecurity News and Updates

    17:02 Changing Demographics in MSP Clients

    26:14 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    29 m
  • Results for MSPs: An Interview with Sam Saab and Bob Lewis
    Oct 6 2025

    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 construction, field services, and professional services. They elaborate on the company's a la carte licensing model, their channel partner program, and provide insights into the types of clients who benefit most from their software. The episode also highlights the recent launch of the 'Results for MSPs' program and the integration with QuickBooks.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:26Meet the Guests: Sam Saab and Bob Lewis

    01:18 Background Stories: Sam and Bob's Journey

    03:01 Overview of Results Software

    04:33 Capabilities of the Software

    08:16 Typical Clients and Use Cases

    12:10 Channel Program and Partner Opportunities

    17:21 Contact Information and Final Thoughts

    19:04 Conclusion and Farewell

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    20 m
  • Purchasing Local Competition: Is It Worth It?
    Oct 2 2025

    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 affecting tech workers, and Microsoft's new return-to-office policy. The episode wraps up with discussions on upcoming economic indicators and opportunities for MSPs to thrive despite broader economic challenges. Amy also promotes an AI class for MSPs, launching in October at thirdtier.net.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:35 Weekend Recap

    05:03 MSP Question of the Week: Buying a Local Competitor

    10:08 AI Trends and Business Restructuring

    13:47 TikTok Deal and Microsoft Office Mandate

    20:48 Economic Updates and Predictions

    23:42 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

    ---

    New Book Release:

    I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats.

    Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve.

    Available now on Amazon!
    https://a.co/d/f2NKASI

    ---

    Sponsor Memo:

    Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6).

    If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out.

    There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it.

    For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com

    Más Menos
    26 m