Dave Maik | Navigating the New Era of Email: What MSPs Need to Know
In this episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle welcomes Dave Maik from Valley Mail. The conversation dives into the evolution of technology and security solutions within the MSP space, highlighting how Valley Mail is addressing the growing need for robust email security protocols. Dave sheds light on his journey through various tech transformations since the mid-90s, emphasizing the morphing of traditional computing into cloud-based solutions and the critical role of MSPs in maintaining security. The discussion provides an insightful overview of the current challenges businesses face, particularly with the recent enforcement of email security protocols by major providers like Google and Microsoft. Dave explains how these changes necessitate the implementation of DMARC, SPF, and DKIM protocols to ensure emails reliably reach their intended recipients without getting flagged. Emphasizing the importance of selecting the right security stack, Dave points out the risks of overspending on unnecessary solutions and introduces Valley Mail's automated solutions designed for ease and efficiency. Key Takeaways: Evolution of IT Security: Technology has rapidly evolved, morphing from basic computing to the complexities of cloud-based solutions, necessitating strong security frameworks. Email Security Protocols: Recent updates by Yahoo, Google, and Microsoft require businesses to implement DMARC, SPF, and DKIM protocols to ensure email deliverability and authenticity. Valley Mail Solutions: Valley Mail offers user-friendly and cost-effective solutions to assist MSPs in configuring and maintaining essential email security settings efficiently. Assessing Security Needs: MSPs are encouraged to evaluate their security solutions carefully, using tools and resources like Valley Mail's free Monitor product to analyze their current state. Community Engagement: Dave Maik remains committed to educating and assisting MSPs in selecting and deploying the right security solutions without unnecessary complexity or cost. Guest Name: Dave Maik LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemaik/ Company: Valimail Website: https://www.valimail.com/ Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com
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Beau Butaud | How MSPs Can Turn SOC 2 Readiness Into a Competitive Advantage
In this engaging episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle welcomes Beau Butaud from Render Compliance. Beau shares his insights on navigating the complex world of SOC 2 compliance, emphasizing the importance of aligning SOC 2 audits with customer requirements and industry standards. With the rising demand for security and compliance in the MSP community, this episode is a deep dive into the nuances of governance, risk, and compliance that are critical for businesses handling sensitive data. The conversation begins with Beau's professional journey, highlighting his decision to establish Render Compliance to improve audit processes. The discussion transitions into practical insights on preparing for SOC 2 audits, where Beau advises on the significance of understanding scoping requirements and differentiating between Type 1 and Type 2 examinations. The episode further explores the pivotal role of policies and the evolving tech landscape's impact on data governance, offering listeners valuable perspectives on building effective controls and managing compliance challenges. Brian and Beau's dialogue underscores the strategic importance of SOC 2 readiness and operational excellence in safeguarding client data and reinforcing trust. Key Takeaways: Understanding SOC 2 Importance: Businesses should pursue SOC 2 compliance to meet client demands and protect sensitive data, with a clear understanding of the requirements and benefits. Audit Scoping: Defining a precise scope is crucial to ensure an effective SOC 2 audit process, and may involve a mix of system scopes and control definitions tailored to business operations. Policy Evolution: Regular policy reviews are essential to align with technological changes and ensure that data management practices remain relevant and effective. Collaborative Auditing: A good auditor provides guidance on expectations and gaps, enabling businesses to implement necessary changes and achieve compliance. Boutique Audit Advantages: Working with smaller firms like Render Compliance offers personalized service focused on quality and efficiency, helping first-time SOC 2 participants navigate the process smoothly. Guest Name: Beau Butaud LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beaubutaud/ Company: Render Compliance Website: https://rendercompliance.com/ Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com
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Jesse Miller | The Hidden Goldmine MSPs Are Overlooking
In this episode of the MSP Business School podcast, host Brian Doyle welcomes Jesse Miller from PowerPSA Consulting to discuss the importance and structuring of vCISO programs in MSPs. Jesse shares his journey from a CISO of an MSP to founding PowerPSA Consulting, emphasizing the need for MSPs to offer vCISO services to enhance client value and expand recurring revenue. This engaging discussion explores the primary hurdles MSPs face in implementing and monetizing these services, delivering actionable insights and practical advice for listeners. Jesse Miller elaborates on how MSPs can become proactive by incorporating vCISO programs into their offerings. He highlights the significance of market research to tailor these programs to client needs and explains the importance of detailed client interviews for developing unique value propositions. The conversation dives deep into key issues like effectively packaging and pricing vCISO services, the role of cyber insurance in driving the demand for these services, and leveraging vCISO offerings as a strategy to outpace competitors. Jesse's experiences and advice provide a roadmap for MSPs aiming to build successful vCISO programs. Key Takeaways: Monetizing VCISO Programs: It's crucial for MSPs to effectively package and promote vCISO services, positioning them as essential rather than optional to clients. Market Research and Target Clients: Conducting detailed interviews with existing clients helps in creating a tailor-made vCISO program that aligns with client needs and expectations. Cyber Insurance as a Catalyst: Rising demands from cyber insurance work as a significant factor pushing the necessity for robust vCISO programs. Opportunity for Growth: vCISO services can be an entry point into new markets and clients, offering a competitive edge over other MSPs. Elevating Strategic Partnerships: Providing vCISO services allows MSPs to transition from being viewed as commodities to strategic partners with their clients. Guest Name: Jesse Miller LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/secopswarrior/ Company: PowerPSA Consulting Website: https://powerpsa.com/ Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com
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Zulfiya Forsythe | What Happens When an MSP and AI Expert Join Forces
Join Brian Doyle on the latest episode of MSP Business School, where he sits down with Zulfiya Forsythe from the Omaldi Group. Zulfiya shares her experience entering the MSP sector and how accidents in work collaborations often create remarkable opportunities for business growth. As a data analytics expert, she discusses how her partnership with MSPs enhances client satisfaction by offering data-driven insights and AI-based automation. In this episode, Zulfiya Forsythe delves into the world of AI, exploring its vast capabilities and addressing common business challenges. Emphasizing the practicality of AI beyond the buzz, she explains how AI can be leveraged to improve business processes and addresses why automation is sometimes a more appropriate solution. Zulfiya highlights some of her successful AI integrations, including Vicki, an AI-powered voice agent that minimizes call management issues, and the Foreman Agent, a tool enhancing data access efficiency for construction companies and municipal operations. Key Takeaways: Zulfiya Forsythe has successfully integrated AI and automation into business processes, highlighting the partnership between AI-driven tools and traditional business operations. Discussing her agent Vicki, Zulfiya demonstrates how AI aids in managing customer service by answering calls and integrating data into client systems, subsequently increasing client retention and efficiency. The Foreman Agent exemplifies AI's capacity to streamline data retrieval by transforming extensive historical data into easily accessible insights, revolutionizing industries like construction. AI should not be confused with simple automation; while both improve processes, AI brings the ability to understand and process natural language, enhancing communication efficiency. A strategic approach to AI and automation can significantly optimize operations, allowing business leaders to focus on core business strategies while maintaining quality and service standards. Guest Name: Zulfiya Forsythe LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulfiya-forsythe-akbarova-cpa-0214b98/ Company: Omadi Group Website: https://omadligroup.com Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com
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Josh Kotler | How to Turn Your MSP into a Scalable, Sellable Machine
Join Brian Doyle on the MSP Business School podcast as he delves into the essential strategies for MSPs aiming for a successful business exit. Brian is joined by expert guest Josh Kotler from Canyon Point, who shares insights into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and offers invaluable advice for MSPs contemplating their exit strategies. This episode will guide you through the stages and steps necessary to enhance your exit and achieve the most rewarding outcome. Kotler emphasizes the importance of reaching a $4-10 million revenue mark for MSPs. He explains that this growth is essential for significant enterprise value creation, which is crucial for attracting higher multiples at the time of sale. Through his experience, Kotler also provides a glimpse into how MSPs can transform from owner-centric operations to scalable businesses. Listeners will gain insights into how to optimize financial management, improve operational efficiencies, and leverage peer networks to thrive and prepare for future transitions. Key Takeaways: Importance of Scaling: Kotler advises that MSPs should aim to reach at least $4 million in revenue to ensure a meaningful and profitable exit. Role of the Owner: Reducing the owner's involvement in daily operations increases business independence, enhancing the overall value during a sale. Building Financial Health: Maintaining robust financials and proper KPI tracking is crucial for demonstrating business maturity to potential buyers. Seek Guidance: Joining peer groups or consulting with experienced professionals can provide the insights needed for successful business evolution. Intentional Planning: It's vital for MSP owners to be proactive, starting their exit planning well in advance to optimize opportunities for successful transactions. Guest Name: Josh Kotler LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkotler/ Company: Canyon Point Technologies Website: https://canyonpoint.com/ Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com
A podcast geared to Technology Service Providers where we bring you strategies and tactics to grow your business and build a winning culture.
This podcast helps MSPs and MSSPs accelerate their business through strategies, tips, and tactics for driving sales, marketing, and account management.
Join our host, Brian Doyle, every Tuesday!
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