Overview:

In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts James and Amy kick off with a weather update from Michigan and Nebraska and discuss the changing nature of fall leaf collection. The conversation then shifts to the MSP question of the week, focusing on the best KPIs and metrics for MSP CEOs, emphasizing the importance of role-specific indicators. They explore financial and performance metrics in depth and touch upon AI's transformative role in the workplace. The episode wraps up with thoughts on the evolving nature of work hours, reflections on the recent FAA issues, and updates on WhatsApp's growing user base and Zoom's revamped partner program. The hosts also share their excitement for the upcoming holidays. 00:00 Introduction to the SMB Community Podcast 00:23 Weather Chat and Personal Updates 02:35 MSP Question of the Week: Best KPIs for CEOs 11:11 AI in the Workplace: Opportunities and Challenges 15:32 Rethinking the 40-Hour Work Week 22:28 Federal Government and Travel Updates 24:33 Tech Talk: WhatsApp and Zoom Partner Programs 28:13 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events 31:12 Conclusion and Farewell

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Chapter Markers:

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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

Overview:

In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss the evolving landscape of IT distribution and whether it is becoming obsolete. They reminisce about the days when IT professionals relied heavily on specific distributors and how the market shift has changed their role. They also touch on the U.S. Senate passing the budget bill, LinkedIn's top 50 startup list for 2025, Apple's advancements in satellite technology, and a change in leadership at Kaseya. Additionally, Amy announces the return of her scholarship program for Microsoft certifications, and James gives updates on his upcoming events.

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Chapter Markers:

---

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

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.

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Chapter Markers:

---

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

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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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