Episodios

  • 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

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    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
  • Microsoft Partner Program Changes & Updates
    Sep 25 2025

    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 headquarters' growth, AI investments, and its significant role in database management. They also highlight leadership changes aimed at making Kase AI-focused. The discussion covers Apple's recent product announcements, stressing their new features in health tech and their surprising decision to maintain pricing. The episode wraps up with a talk on upcoming regulations to protect minors from harmful online content, reflecting on the importance of such regulations.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter

    01:52 Microsoft Partner Program Updates

    06:10 Oracle's Revenue Surge and AI Potential

    08:31 Kaseya's AI-First Strategy

    09:52 Apple's Latest Announcements

    17:37 Regulations on Social Media Content for Minors

    20:10 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

    ---

    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
    21 m
  • Navigating Pricing Models
    Sep 21 2025

    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 MSPs, highlighting opportunities for growth and hiring during downturns. They also delve into the underestimated risks and potential of AI technology in business, covering recent research on AI hallucinations and the importance of source verification. The episode wraps up with updates on upcoming events and projects, including James Kernan's new book on selling MSPs and Amy's AI course starting in October.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction

    02:56 Question of the Week: Per Seat vs. Per Device Pricing

    10:35 Crypto Market Trends and Implications

    13:45 Economic Outlook and Opportunities for MSPs

    19:12 Microsoft 365 Offer for Students

    21:28 AI Adoption in the Channel and Business

    29:37 Upcoming Events and Closing Remarks

    ---

    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
    32 m
  • Optimizing Business Valuations
    Sep 5 2025

    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, the resurgence of buyer interest in smaller companies, and the impact of AI on business valuations. The hosts review recent cybersecurity incidents affecting major companies and discuss the potential need for a dedicated cyber military force. Additionally, the podcast covers notable industry news including Google's legal battle over search data, Elon Musk's new project to rival Microsoft, and Tesla's strategic shift towards humanoid robots. The episode concludes with upcoming events and courses aimed at helping MSPs leverage AI for their businesses.

    ---

    Chapter Markers:

    00:00 Introduction and Hosts Welcome

    01:39 MSP Question of the Week: Increasing Company Value

    06:09 Trends in M&A for Small Businesses

    10:09 Recent Cybersecurity Incidents

    14:19 Google's Legal Win and AI Impact

    16:26 Elon Musk's New Ventures: Macro Hard and Tesla Robots

    20:32 Fall Plans and Upcoming AI Course

    ---

    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
    23 m