614: Navigating AI in IT Consulting: Insights from Michael Thomsen of Origin 84
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
Release Date: 04/22/2025
624: Tech Takes: The Struggles with AI and Accounting Software
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss their long-standing production schedule and reliance on listener support through Patreon. They share humorous anecdotes and frustrations about everyday tech issues, such as fixing client problems and dealing with insufficient AI-generated messages. The conversation delves into the ever-increasing costs of essential services like QuickBooks and the challenges of using AI tools like ChatGPT for tasks ranging from contract creation to tech support. They also touch on broader issues involving monopolistic behaviors of tech giants and the...
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623: When Updates and Integration Go Awry: A Case Study
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts tackle a series of tech frustrations including missed live streams, troublesome iPhone camera features, and challenges with Apple TV and Hulu apps. They dive into a detailed rant about modern tech devices failing to work seamlessly, share personal anecdotes of encountering pop-up errors and software compatibility issues, and discuss potential solutions. Special segments include difficulties with remote work, the quirks of Notifications and Permissions in macOS, and the ongoing struggle with the Malwarebytes and Addigy integration. The...
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622: Streamlining Revenue: Affiliate Insights and Network Solutions
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
In this episode of Command Control Power, Joe and Jerry dive into the intricacies of network monitoring, leveraging affiliate programs for additional revenue, and the challenges of managing client relationships. They discuss Jerry's struggles with dermatological prescriptions and the importance of staying updated on tech services. The conversation shifts to the mechanics of Amazon's affiliate program, their frustrations with Amazon's strict rules, and how they incorporate other affiliate programs like Backblaze and Uptime Robot into their business models. The duo also shares insights on using...
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Best Of CCP - 470: Beans In The Buckets
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
Sam Valencia, Jerry Zigmont and Joe Saponare discuss working with Apple technology and clients. Drawn from their combined experience of over 20 years in the Apple Consultants Network, they discuss technical support issues both with the technology and working with clients.
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620: From Rooftops in Spain to QuickBooks User Pains
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss recent events including a vacation and the ACEs conference. They dive into a detailed troubleshooting story involving QuickBooks server issues and explore the challenges associated with setting up Windows PCs and QuickBooks for clients. Additional topics include managing one password admin access for clients and a debate over using cases for Macs. The episode also highlights the 10th anniversary of the Mac Admins community and offers useful insights for managed service providers. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:08 Vacation...
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619: Mac Misfires, Backblaze Blues, and the Cost of Bad Support
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
In this episode, the hosts of Command Control Power discuss their personal lives and tech experiences, including outdoor activities and everyday tech issues. They delve into a peculiar issue one encountered with a MacBook Pro during an update, which turned out to be related to Dell Display Manager. The conversation also covers Backblaze backup anomalies, Apple's migration assistant quirks, and problematic customer service interactions with vendors like Microsoft and RingCentral. To wrap up, the team reflects on the importance of considering user behavior in quality assurance for tech products...
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Best Of CCP - 288: Shoehorns, Straight Jackets & Ducktape
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
Sam Valencia, Jerry Zigmont and Joe Saponare discuss working with Apple technology and clients. Drawn from their combined experience of over 20 years in the Apple Consultants Network, thaey discuss technical support issues both with the technology and working with clients.
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617: Interview with Adam Engst: Navigating AI, Tech Ethics, and Business Models
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
Interview with Adam Engst: Navigating AI, Tech Ethics, and Business Models The hosts of Command Control Power are joined by Adam Engst of Tidbits Content Network for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of AI, the ethics of technology in business, and how evolving business models are influencing content creation. Topics include the 35th anniversary of Tidbits, the importance of maintaining human decency in business practices, the future of AI-based answer engines compared to traditional search engines, and the need for businesses to develop AI policies. Engst also shares personal...
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616: Backblaze Blues, Alectrona Patch Updates & the MacBook Air That Took Flight
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
The hosts of Command Control Power discuss recent issues with Backblaze, including failed updates and poor communication, which have eroded trust among users. They delve into the technical struggles with Apple's update processes and highlight improvements to the Electronic Patch software. Jerry shares a personal story about accidentally leaving his MacBook Air on top of his car and the ensuing repair saga, illustrating the importance of awareness and preparedness in the IT field. The episode wraps up with a reflection on the frustrations and foibles that come with managing tech in...
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615: Boutique Consultancy: Balancing High-Touch Service and Growth
Command Control Power • Apple Tech Support & Business Talk
Boutique Consultancy: Balancing High-Touch Service and Growth In this episode, the discussion revolves around the concept of boutique consultancy, highlighting the benefits of providing a personalized, high-touch service over rapid, automated responses. The conversation delves into the comparison between boutique firms and large-scale competitors, focusing on client satisfaction versus cost-saving strategies. Drawing parallels to Apple's business approach, the discussion extends to the evolution of consulting within the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of intelligent strategy...
info_outlineNavigating AI in IT Consulting: Insights from Michael Thomsen
In this episode of Command Control Power, hosts welcome Michael Thomsen of Origin 84, dialing in from Australia. Michael shares critical insights into the use of AI in IT consulting. Topics range from the pros and cons of binge-listening to tech podcasts to the practical uses of AI tools like ChatGPT and Google's Gemini. Michael emphasizes the importance of balancing automation with human interaction, sharing examples of how AI can enhance efficiency, such as generating meeting summaries, handling complex client requests, and improving ticketing systems. The discussion also touches on the risks of data leakage, the necessity of well-defined policies, and the future implications of AI in both enhancing productivity and posing security challenges.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:36 Listener Feedback and Follow-Up
02:41 AI Tools in Daily Work
05:51 AI Integration in Business
09:08 Real-World AI Use Cases
13:52 Challenges and Best Practices with AI
23:50 AI in Education and Policy
27:22 Understanding AI Policies and Data Leakage
28:28 Balancing AI Empowerment and Security Risks
29:21 Credential Stuffing and Security Examples
30:49 Implementing Effective AI Policies
32:10 Microsoft Tools for Data Security
35:03 Challenges in Modern Security Practices
39:14 Leveraging AI for Productivity
42:09 AI in Client Communication and Ticketing
47:48 The Human Element in AI Integration
51:32 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Security