Episodes

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, missed follow-ups, or scattered data, this episode is your wake-up call. Kevin breaks down why traditional tracking systems aren’t cutting it anymore and how Better Tracker was built specifically with MSP pain points in mind. From simplifying your vendor stack to r...

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—both personally and professionally. From summer takeaways to future goals, hear what’s on deck for MSP Unplugged, upcoming events, content plans, and what to expect from the podcast as we roll into the rest of the year. Whether you’ve been with us all summer or...

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 a purpose-built, community-first nonprofit dedicated to helping MSPs, vendors, and IT professionals thrive. We dive into GTIA’s new mission, explore its four foundational pillars—People, Resources, Community, and Advancement—and get a first look at how this rei...

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—empowering providers to deliver enterprise-grade protection with ease and efficiency. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/sHqBJ_c7_q8 --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! ---------------------------------------------------...

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 into a thriving IT services company. It’s a powerful story of growth, purpose, and honoring the past while embracing the future of managed services. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/CIJGEDqReaI --------------------------------------------------- Connect ...

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, and unlock actionable insights from enterprise data. Mike walks us through how OpenText is empowering MSPs to leverage cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and automation tools—enabling them to deliver stronger compliance, smarter workflows, and deeper customer trust in a...

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 final Pax8 Beyond event in Denver. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/wjb3-pSyUb8 --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged https://mspunplugged.com/ Paco Lebro...

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 and better customer experiences in challenging environments. Leonard shares how their forward-thinking approach is empowering MSPs to expand their offerings and meet client demands in ways traditional solutions can't. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.b...

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, how Check Point is enabling MSPs to stay ahead of modern threats, and what’s coming next in partner enablement, AI, and threat prevention. It’s a candid, high-value conversation from the expo floor — packed with insight for today’s security-focused MSPs. Full ...

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?" , this time we’re talking about what we’re doing to sleep at night . We dig into the strategies, changes, tools, and mindset shifts we’re implementing to keep operations running smoothly, protect our clients, and take some of the pressure off as MSPs. From aut...

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 unpack the origin story of MSPOgs, why the MSP community needs a new kind of leadership, and how this initiative aims to foster collaboration, mentorship, and real peer support. Paco steps away from the co-host mic to share his personal passion behind the missi...

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 about making smarter, more sustainable choices. We dive into the mindset behind tool selection: 🧠 What questions you should be asking 🧰 How to build a flexible, future-ready stack 📉 What happens when you over-tool or under-tool ⚙️ Why integration and workflow sh...

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 compromising client trust. We won’t name names, but we will tell you the exact framework we used to: Evaluate vendors the right way Offboard with professionalism Onboard with confidence Set expectations for support, communication, and service from day one If y...

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-world tips, and proven best practices. Whether you’re just adopting Microsoft 365 or want to take your usage to the next level, this episode is packed with value. 🔧 Tools we use 🔐 Security strategies 📊 Productivity hacks 🧠 Lessons from the field 👉 Don’t forget to...

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...

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 business...

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. it is not...

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 (MSPs) can...

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...

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 breakthrough...

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: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us!...

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 without...

🤖 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 artificial...

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...