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 50 years in the Apple Consultants Network, they discuss technical support issues, business operations, and working with clients.
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658: From Command to Control: Stories of Digital Dilemmas
02/24/2026
658: From Command to Control: Stories of Digital Dilemmas
From Command to Control: Stories of Digital Dilemmas The hosts discuss Apple Mail email signatures and discover that when a website URL lacks a prefix, Apple Mail defaults it to an insecure http link, which can trigger junk filtering; they also note cases where a displayed https link still points to http behind the scenes. They compare Apple Mail to Outlook in business environments, mention limitations around advanced signature management, and comment on Apple’s minimal transparency in service-status outage explanations. They cover Apple’s iOS 12 update extending certificates for services like iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation through January 2027, and then shift to opinions and speculation about Tim Cook’s political pandering possibly being tied to tariffs and CEO succession timing. Returning to tech, they explain Apple Pay’s security benefits—device-specific numbers and unique transaction codes—especially after a client’s credit card was repeatedly compromised, and discuss adding additional browser protection via Malwarebytes Browser Guard and Chrome/Safari extension deployment through MDM (Addigy), including using ChatGPT to generate a configuration profile. They also describe using ChatGPT to edit MailChimp newsletter HTML quickly, and explore AI-assisted app development ideas such as an iOS app that converts call logs into calendar entries, referencing a Steven Robles video about building an app with AI while noting potential security pitfalls like exposed credentials. Lgistics issue involving gear ordered for testing via an Amazon locker at Staples. When attempting pickup, the host discovers the locker has no keypad and relies on the Amazon app and NFC. Despite signing into the client’s Amazon account and enabling required app permissions (Bluetooth and device access), the locker cannot be accessed. Amazon customer service suggests the order data may be incomplete due to a third-party seller and issues immediate refunds or credits. 00:00 Welcome In: Time, the Clock Tower, and “Running Out of Time” 00:46 Client Referral Follow-Up: When People Go Radio Silent 01:39 Apple Mail Link Gotcha: Why Your Clean URL Becomes HTTP 04:13 Hidden Signature Code: Displayed HTTPS, Actual HTTP (and Spam Filters) 05:45 Why Apple Should Default to HTTPS (Google Already Does) 08:34 Signature Tools & Workflows: WiseStamp, Outlook, and What Clients Actually Use 10:37 Apple Still Updating Old iOS: Certificate Expiration and 2027 Cutoff 11:40 Tim Cook, Politics, and the CEO Succession Theory 15:06 Bully-Pulpit News Cycle: Waiting for the Next Outrage 16:08 Epstein Files & Accountability: Why Consequences Aren’t Landing in the U.S. 18:16 From Past Scandals to Today: How the Bar Moved (Back to Tech) 19:00 Merch & Sponsorship Shoutouts (The Command Control Power Mug) 19:47 Apple Services Outages & the Vague Status Page Problem 21:14 Why Apple Pay Is Safer After a Card Gets Compromised 23:40 Dashlane vs Malwarebytes Browser Guard: Phishing/Scam Blocking Extensions 28:19 Layered Web Protection: Safari Safe Browsing, DNS Filtering, and Extension Risks 31:36 ChatGPT for Real Work: Fixing a Mailchimp Newsletter with HTML 33:06 AI-Assisted App Idea: Turn Call Logs into Calendar Entries (and Vibe Coding) 37:59 Security Caveats + Wrap-Up Quip About AI Summaries
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657: Routers, Returns, and Roustabouts
02/17/2026
657: Routers, Returns, and Roustabouts
In this episode of Command Control Power, Jerry and Joe discuss recent weather experiences and delve into network topics, including the Unify travel router, the Unify 5G Max Dream Router, and data SIM options. They also share practical tips for streamlining tech tools like Text Expander shortcuts and explore innovative solutions like SPEED for bonding multiple internet connections. Additionally, they touch on topics like simplifying Amazon returns and considerations for international travel, providing humorous anecdotes and prudent advice along the way. 00:00 Introduction and Weather Chat 01:14 Network Talk: Ubiquiti Announcements 01:36 Unify Travel Router: Features and Criticisms 04:54 Dream Router 5G Max: A Versatile Solution 06:28 5G Max and LTE Backup: Deployment Insights 13:26 Affordable Data SIMs for Low-Income Users 18:41 International Travel: EIM Solutions 23:05 Speed.com: Bonding Multiple Connections 28:05 Understanding Data Plans and Router Compatibility 28:56 Currency Exchange for International Travel 33:29 Network Security and Data Protection 37:57 Text Expander Tips and Tricks 43:43 Venmo and ACH Payment Insights 48:11 Amazon Returns and Stock Picks 52:13 Conclusion and Listener Appreciation
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Best of CCP - 469: Past Performance Is No Guarantee Of Future Results
02/10/2026
Best of CCP - 469: Past Performance Is No Guarantee Of Future Results
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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655: Somewhere Between SOS and Success
02/03/2026
655: Somewhere Between SOS and Success
In this episode of Command Control Power, Sam and Joe discuss their recent experiences managing client tech issues, including dealing with email outages linked to service cancellations and signature management services. They highlight the significance of understanding backend configurations and making informed decisions to enhance client service. The conversation also touches on the nuances of email signature management, the importance of staying visible to clients without overwhelming them, and venting frustrations with Apple product cases. Engaging anecdotes and practical advice underscore the challenges and rewards of providing high-quality tech support. 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 00:31 Verizon Outage Discussion 02:02 Software Updates and Challenges 12:35 Client Management Strategies 20:35 Windows to Mac Switchers 30:53 A Longtime Client's Charging Issue 31:44 The Mystery of the MagSafe Tape 33:12 Visible Wear on Apple Products 34:25 Frustrations with Apple Cases 41:06 Switching Email Platforms and Issues 44:42 Email Signature Management Challenges 55:43 Conclusion and Patreon Support
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654: All Trails Lead to Rants: Tackling Technology
01/27/2026
654: All Trails Lead to Rants: Tackling Technology
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss the hustle of their busy January, including managing clients during holiday breaks. They share insights on employing external support teams, retaining work efficiency without a full-time replacement, and offering priority support services for high-demand clients. They dive into domain management stories, highlighting positive and negative interactions with GoDaddy. The hosts also explore the hidden functionality of Apple’s backtrack feature and share frustrations about the all trails app. Join them for a mix of practical advice, tech tips, and candid commentary on managing IT work and client needs. 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Recap 00:44 Managing Client Support During Holidays 02:09 Outsourcing Support Services 03:40 Implementing Support Team and Workflow 07:07 Client Feedback and Adaptations 08:59 Priority Support and New Services 13:31 AI and Automation in Client Support 20:26 Domain Management and SEO Challenges 30:58 GoDaddy's Unexpected Favor 32:53 Navigating Domain Transfers 37:35 Apple's Hand Warmer Idea 38:22 Apple TV Screenshot Trick 40:18 Apple's Backtrack Feature 46:34 Frustrations with AllTrails App 54:37 Conclusion and Patreon Plug
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653: We Don't Need No Stinkin’ Deferrals
01/20/2026
653: We Don't Need No Stinkin’ Deferrals
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts humorously discuss their tech-related frustrations and the nuances of tech support. They struggle with audio issues at the beginning, but then delve into the timing issues with Apple's OS updates and deferrals, highlighting the challenges of managing these updates for clients. There's a light-hearted recount of personal tech issues, such as using HomePods and streaming music services. They also share the complexities of dealing with ISPs, particularly with switching providers and maintaining service quality. The episode concludes with a quirky story about a tech support session interrupted by a client's unexpected firing. 00:00 Introduction and Banter 01:12 Technical Difficulties and Setup 06:17 ISP Experiences and Switching to Frontier 08:07 Nostalgia and Local References 11:57 Dealing with ISPs and Customer Service 19:46 Frontier Fiber and Recommendations 23:05 Awkward Client Interaction 24:47 Tahoe Deferrals Explained 26:15 Apple's 90-Day Update Policy 29:04 Challenges with OS Updates 32:25 Client Management Strategies 36:49 The Frustrations of Tech Updates 50:45 Humorous Client Stories 52:20 Closing Remarks and Announcements
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Best of CCP - 119: Burning Through Technical Capital
01/13/2026
Best of CCP - 119: Burning Through Technical Capital
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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651: No Rest for the Techy as We Enter 2026
01/06/2026
651: No Rest for the Techy as We Enter 2026
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss their busy schedules at the end of 2025 and their plans for the holiday season. Topics include the impact of year-end client projects, managing office breaks, and balancing personal time during the holidays. The conversation shifts to a timely warning about iPhone security while traveling, prompted by an article from Tidbits Content Network. A fascinating client story is shared involving the recovery of an old iCloud account trapped behind forgotten credentials. Another highlight includes a successful repair story from the Rossman Group, addressing a client's dead MacBook Pro battery. The hosts wrap up by exploring intriguing tech topics such as blocking issues in email aliases and innovative VPN solutions for connection bonding. 00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections 00:37 Holiday Plans and Workload Management 03:09 New Year Greetings and Travel Stories 04:39 iPhone Security Concerns While Traveling 06:50 NFC and QR Code Scams 11:00 Client Stories and Apple Support Experiences 18:01 The MacBook Pro Charger Dilemma 18:20 Resetting the SMC and Battery Issues 18:39 Recurring Revenue and Client Needs 20:11 Repair Challenges and Solutions 22:07 The Rossman Group to the Rescue 26:41 Gmail Sent Mail Mystery 32:14 Speedify VPN and Connection Bonding 33:40 Conclusion and Listener Appreciation
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650: Season's Greetings From CCP (I'm An American Man)
12/30/2025
650: Season's Greetings From CCP (I'm An American Man)
In this holiday message episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss the importance of intuition and trusting one’s gut instincts in business and life. They emphasize the significance of mental and physical health, encouraging listeners to take care of themselves and stay vigilant about their overall wellness. Reflecting on the stressors of work and client relationships, they advocate for finding balance, taking breaks, and not glorifying overworking. As they wrap up, they wish their audience a happy holiday, urging them to disconnect and relax while continuing to support the podcast.
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649: Wired for Success, Concrete Solutions With Andy Espo of Call Andy Consulting
12/23/2025
649: Wired for Success, Concrete Solutions With Andy Espo of Call Andy Consulting
In this episode of Command Control Power, Andy Espo from Call Andy Mac Consulting joins the discussion once again. The conversation kicks off with humorous banter about appearances and jackets before delving into serious tech talk. Andy shares the complexities of installing and upgrading network infrastructure in high-end residential projects, especially in challenging environments like old houses and concrete structures. He emphasizes the importance of discerning client relationships, meticulous planning, and ensuring proper execution by contractors. Andy also discusses strategies for building trust with clients, effective communication, and the shift towards managed services amid growing cybersecurity concerns. The episode concludes with insights on the importance of networking and building strategic partnerships with clients. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:41 High-End Residential Work 01:55 Challenges in Network Installations 04:47 WiFi Planning and Intuition 09:18 Client Education and Expectations 10:57 Working with Contractors 17:07 Common Wiring Issues 20:35 Ensuring Quality and Client Satisfaction 29:05 The Importance of Redundancy in Wiring 29:27 Challenges with Daisy Chaining and Switches 29:56 The Frustration of Poor Wiring in High-End Homes 31:01 The Impact of Construction Materials on WiFi Performance 32:42 The Shift to Managed Services and Cybersecurity 34:40 The Importance of Cyber Insurance 40:56 Efficiency Loss and Productivity in IT 45:30 The Art of Communicating Value to Clients 50:36 Building Strategic Partnerships 52:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Best of CCP - 053: Toxic Hellstew
12/16/2025
Best of CCP - 053: Toxic Hellstew
Recorded live June 3, 2014 Tim Cook quoting : "With vulnerabilities such as Heartbleed and Pileup likely to go unpatched on tens, if not hundreds of millions of Android devices, the platform is fast becoming a toxic hellstew that should send chills down the spines of IT admins." Yosemite and iOS 8 initial impressions How the OS X Beta Program will affect us as Apple consultants; expect overzealous clients to call for help troubleshooting issues with pre-release software Family Sharing looks great for home users, but still no way to migrate purchases or merge Apple IDs Sam reports that AirDrop works between Yosemite and iOS 7 Joe reports that Apple Store is no longer accepting machines at the Genius Bar using "Quick Drop" Jerry reports that Genius Bar has been lenient when accepting machines from consultants on behalf of clients; no signed letter needed Difficulty offering help as a Consultant in the Apple Store; would be nice if Apple would more readily refer clients to us as they tend to be thrilled when they eventually do find us Joe had fun configuring an Automator workflow for a client referred (eventually) by the Apple Store from Jonathan Mann
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644: AI Concerns, and Workflow Solutions
12/09/2025
644: AI Concerns, and Workflow Solutions
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646: Navigating Tech Updates and Client Communications
12/02/2025
646: Navigating Tech Updates and Client Communications
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Best of CCP - 427 Guest Host - Tim Pearson of CreativeTechs
11/25/2025
Best of CCP - 427 Guest Host - Tim Pearson of CreativeTechs
This week we welcome long time supporter of the show, Tim Pearson of Creative Techs. Tim joins us as a co-host. He talks about traveling on the ferry to do onsite work. The group discusses the wildfires out west. Tim shares a story about the time he made a mistake of wearing a Star Wars shirt, causing his meeting to go way overtime. The group helps Tim with approaching a mistake he made in his business. Jerry’s talks about the “Screwdriver Effect” Getting fired by a client is a great opportunity to take another look at how you do things. Everyone discusses MSP and contracts with clients. How are the group members finding new work throughout the pandemic? Sam explains how he started getting referrals from the Apple stores. The group talks about the Apple Consultants Network program and its benefits. What is everyone seeing regarding to employees coming back to the offices? Some people work better in offices and some at home. Do you have employees or paid friends?
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647: Inside Addigy’s Latest Upgrades: A Deep-Dive into Addigy Assist & Pre-Built Apps with Michaela Gilman & Selina Ali
11/18/2025
647: Inside Addigy’s Latest Upgrades: A Deep-Dive into Addigy Assist & Pre-Built Apps with Michaela Gilman & Selina Ali
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Best of CCP - 222 Flashback Followup, Tagging & More
11/11/2025
Best of CCP - 222 Flashback Followup, Tagging & More
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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642: AirPods, Angels, and Apple Mystique
11/04/2025
642: AirPods, Angels, and Apple Mystique
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss a variety of topics including a nostalgic throwback to a wrestling match they attended, the latest release of the MacBook Pro with M5 chip, and the implications of larger storage options. They dive into the specifics of the new 'Launch Angels' folder found in macOS 14, differences in storage drives, and the practical uses of Google Gemini for locating a lost MacBook. Additionally, they highlight the pros and cons of Amazon purchases, and share personal stories involving client interactions and unique tech mishaps. The episode wraps up with a teaser for the next Patreon-only episode focusing on marketing strategies using Canva. 00:00 Introduction and Nostalgia 00:47 Wrestling Memories and Family Connections 01:58 New MacBook Pro with M5 Chip 06:03 Storage Needs and Solutions 14:09 Smart TVs vs. Apple TV 19:39 AirPods Pro Discussion 25:32 Meeting in Boulder and Casa Bonita 27:59 Planning Future Meetups 28:15 Discussing Canva and Managed Service Plans 28:40 Launch Angels Folder Discovery 31:41 Apple Music and Third-Party Services 32:46 Bluetooth Adapters for Airplanes 34:17 Amazon Purchases and Returns 40:10 Printer Ink Scams and Issues 51:05 Client Stories and AI Assistance 56:29 Conclusion and Patreon Promotion
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641: Pennywise and Pound Foolish: Lessons in IT Management
10/28/2025
641: Pennywise and Pound Foolish: Lessons in IT Management
In this episode of Command Control Power, Jerry discusses his recent experience in acquiring a rescue puppy and managing interactions between his pets. The hosts delve into challenges faced with client device management, particularly focusing on issues related to Apple's Jamf Pro and the importance of having full control over devices. They share various client anecdotes and mishaps, including managing clients' attempts to self-solve tech issues leading to greater problems. Additionally, the episode covers a significant mishap involving Jerry's mailing list being flooded with fake emails and subsequent data loss, emphasizing the necessity of backing up contact lists. The episode also teases upcoming content on using tools like Canva and GPT for marketing and drafting terms of service. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:39 Puppy Adoption Story 01:55 Client Troubles with Jamf Pro 07:42 Client Self-Management Issues 12:55 Printer and Network Troubles 19:38 Personal Tech Mishaps 23:25 Data Recovery Challenges 26:50 Client Communication Challenges 27:37 The Importance of Data Backup 28:49 Newsletter Management and MailChimp Issues 36:05 Dealing with Spam and Contact List Problems 40:41 Lessons Learned and Future Plans 49:32 Exploring Marketing Tools and Strategies 54:25 Conclusion and Patreon Promotion
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Best Of CCP - 073: Mac Mini 2014 & Recommendations
10/21/2025
Best Of CCP - 073: Mac Mini 2014 & Recommendations
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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639: Exploring macOS 26 (Tahoe) Updates, Apple Product Upgrades, and MDM Strategies
10/14/2025
639: Exploring macOS 26 (Tahoe) Updates, Apple Product Upgrades, and MDM Strategies
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss the latest release of macOS 26 (Tahoe), including new features and user experiences. They also talk about Apple's recent updates for older iOS versions and the challenges of managing macOS updates using Mobile Device Management (MDM) profiles. The conversation touches on the new AirPods Pro 3 and AppleCare One plans. Listeners also get a glimpse into upcoming discussion topics for Patreon supporters and participate in a fun pop quiz about Mac system files. The episode wraps up with insights into how Apple addresses counterfeiting and product quality. 00:00 Introduction and Fall Background Banter 00:39 Join Us on Patreon 01:23 Pop Quiz and New Cursors in Tahoe 03:18 WiFi Troubleshooting and Privacy Settings 04:43 Screen Recording Tools 05:30 System Settings and Update Issues 07:18 MDM Solutions and Blocking Updates 13:33 Client Experiences with Updates 22:33 Podcast Critiques and Fake Apple Products 27:17 Counterfeit Apple Products 29:17 Recommended Reads 30:09 Exploring macOS Updates 31:18 iOS Updates Breakdown 33:00 Apple's Generosity with Updates 34:19 Deferral Profiles and Update Strategies 38:39 AirPods Pro 3 Discussion 41:07 AppleCare One and Device Management 50:14 Pop Quiz and Closing Remarks
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638: The Podcast Air: Slimmer, Lighter, and the newest one we ever made
10/07/2025
638: The Podcast Air: Slimmer, Lighter, and the newest one we ever made
In this episode of Command Control Power, hosts Jerry and Joe discuss a special new episode's launch, emphasizing their latest, more advanced podcast. They explore two in-depth client cases, detailing their troubleshooting strategies for corrupted macOS systems and the importance of solid backup solutions. The discussion covers issues related to file system corruption, shared disc mode, Apple silicon, MDM capabilities, and exemplary client service experiences. Joe shares insights into using Apple’s tools more effectively and a handy tip for managing Netflix sign-outs on Samsung TVs. 00:00 Introduction and Special Opening 00:25 Groundbreaking Podcast Announcement 01:39 Pet Peeves and Shipping Woes 04:34 Technical Issues and Text Messaging 11:05 Repairing Computers and User Issues 25:49 Backup Solutions and Best Practices 28:57 Backup Strategies and Client Calls 29:17 Troubleshooting a Mac Studio with Full Storage 30:16 Shared Disk Mode and Carbon Copy Cloner Issues 32:25 Client Backup and OS Version Discovery 35:55 File System Corruption and Recovery 42:32 Apple Store and Client Referrals 47:05 Client Misunderstandings and Device Management 53:53 Family Reunion and Netflix Sign-Out Trick 56:50 Conclusion and Future Episodes
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637: Lost in the Cloud: Flyers, Reviews, and Resetting Reality
09/30/2025
637: Lost in the Cloud: Flyers, Reviews, and Resetting Reality
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts reconnect for a public episode featuring casual banter and professional insights. Discussions range from optimal microphone placement for virtual backgrounds, humorously recounting past advertising endeavors, to moving children into college. The main focus, however, addresses IT and consultancy challenges including issues with ISP connections using Unify, effective marketing strategies, customer experience, generating client reviews, and the impact of AI on IT solutions. The hosts share personal anecdotes and valuable tips for both seasoned consultants and newcomers in the field. The hosts discuss microphone placement and virtual backgrounds, referencing advice from Justin Esgar. Reflections on physical advertising: subway-style ads, banners at trade shows, flyers on community boards, and the effectiveness of old-school marketing versus digital targeting. Personal stories about getting clients from bulletin board flyers, local fairs, and classified ads. The evolution of client acquisition: from random, local encounters to digital, highly-targeted leads and the importance of being listed in the Apple Consultants Network (ACN) locator. The changing landscape of referrals: Google search, ACN locator, and even ChatGPT as a source of new clients. The role of reviews: how to ask for them, where to post them (Google, Yelp, ACN), and the impact of both positive and negative reviews. Anecdotes about difficult client interactions, especially around technical misunderstandings and device resets. Technical discussion: using Unifi’s custom SLA (Service Level Agreement) settings to reduce false internet outage alerts, and the value of tools like Uptime Robot. Brief mention of AI note-taking and its environmental impact, with a plan to discuss this further in a future episode. • • Closing thanks to listeners and patrons, with a reminder about Patreon benefits.
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Best Of CCP - 161: Husbands and Wives Who Work Together -Proactechs & Waples Networks
09/23/2025
Best Of CCP - 161: Husbands and Wives Who Work Together -Proactechs & Waples Networks
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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635: Adventures in Affiliate Limbo and the $37 Jackpot
09/16/2025
635: Adventures in Affiliate Limbo and the $37 Jackpot
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss their patron-only content, focusing on tech insights they share for members. They delve into affiliate marketing with Amazon, highlighting successes and challenges. They reveal frustrations with Amazon affiliates and share tricks to navigate these programs more effectively. They discuss reliability issues with Ubiquiti products, and methods to manage and troubleshoot home networking issues. The episode also touches upon data recovery services, emphasizing experiences with Drive Savers. Listeners get a mix of tech tips, troubleshooting hacks, and behind-the-scenes insights. 00:00 Introduction and Patron-Only Content Teaser 01:48 Amazon Affiliates Marketing Update 02:26 Challenges with Amazon Affiliates 03:46 Affiliate Marketing Strategies and Recommendations 19:33 Data Recovery Services and Experiences 29:28 Client Equipment Purchases and Vendor Relationships 31:06 Client Misunderstandings and Vendor Expectations 31:26 Dealing with Hardware Markups and Transparency 32:18 Client Insistence on Specific Products 33:01 Balancing Client Savings and Business Revenue 36:41 Technical Issues with Screen Sharing and Command Tab 39:09 Monitor Resolution and Better Display App 43:46 Residential Client WiFi Troubleshooting 47:09 Issues with ISP Equipment and Double NAT 50:55 Preview App and Text Edit Issues 52:30 Ending Support for Older Systems and Protocols 56:19 Conclusion and Patreon Support
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Best Of CCP - 295: Change Up The Usual
09/09/2025
Best Of CCP - 295: Change Up The Usual
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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633: A Latte About Apple: Commando, Convos, and Coffee
09/02/2025
633: A Latte About Apple: Commando, Convos, and Coffee
In this episode of Command Control Power, Joe and Sam catch up after attending a confidential Apple Technical Summit. They discuss the event’s highlights, including networking opportunities and technical presentations. Sam shares his experience improving a client's old IT setup, moving them to modern managed services and security practices. Joe dives into his quest for an ideal phone solution with group SMS capabilities, ultimately considering sticking with RingCentral due to recent features supported by AI. The episode also touches on the importance and challenges of maintaining high-quality internet service at a fair price and explores the potential environmental impact of AI note-taking. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts Reunion 00:15 NDA Event and Apple Summit 01:31 Networking and Connections 03:01 San Jose and Big Basin Adventures 06:18 Technical Summit Insights 09:12 Funny Poolside Moments 11:03 Caseless Phones and Engineering Marvels 16:31 Coffee Talk and AeroPress Trivia 25:22 Billing Challenges and Solutions 28:29 Client Negotiations and Agreement 28:55 Email Security and Phishing 29:52 Security Training and Awareness 31:30 New Client with Technical Debt 33:45 Managed Services Plan Pitch 37:41 AI in Client Communication 38:32 Phone Service Saga 51:34 Optimum Fiber and Internet Deals 56:49 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics
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632: Patched Up and Better Than Ever
08/26/2025
632: Patched Up and Better Than Ever
In this episode, the hosts of Command Control Power discuss a range of IT management topics including the challenges of scheduling in summer, handling client updates with Alectrona’s Patch and Addigy’s prebuilt apps, and the intricacies of using Microsoft Outlook. They explore the benefits and drawbacks of these different tools, including how to streamline updates and ensure clients' systems are running smoothly. The conversation also dives into hands-on experiences and technical steps for deploying effective IT solutions, backed by insights from their experiences and interactions with support teams. Additionally, new features like mobile application management in Intune are highlighted for their potential to enhance device security without full MDM enrollment. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the usefulness of different menu bar apps and support methods. 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 00:11 Client Visits and Scheduling Challenges 01:42 SonicWall Upgrade Troubles 07:27 Beta Software Experiences 09:12 Patch and Software Updates 24:14 Understanding Prebuilt Apps and Configuration Profiles 24:59 Consolidating Management Platforms 25:46 Exploring New Products and Trials 26:31 Patch Management and Menu Bar Customization 29:33 Client Interaction and Support Strategies 38:33 Intune and Mobile Application Management 40:51 Outlook vs. Apple Mail 49:41 Wrapping Up and Patreon Support
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631: Monitor Mayhem and the Search for the Perfect Pixel
08/19/2025
631: Monitor Mayhem and the Search for the Perfect Pixel
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss their experiences with various monitor setups, emphasizing ultra-wide and large screens, while exploring technical issues and preferences. They dive into topics such as monitor pixel density, enhanced connectivity settings for Unify networks, and share personal anecdotes about client interactions and equipment setups. The episode also includes light humor and listener engagement, underscoring the blend of technical insights and casual conversation that characterizes the show. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:11 Monitor Preferences and Recommendations 01:50 Client Interaction and Monitor Shaming 02:50 Exploring Ultra-Wide Monitors 04:28 Remote Upgrades for Clients 10:47 Adjusting Monitor Settings for Clarity 15:37 Comparing Monitor Specifications 26:29 The Cost of Standard Glass 26:38 Living Room Office Setup 27:16 Choosing the Right Monitor 30:08 Apple TV and Aspect Ratios 33:01 Monitor vs TV Debate 38:37 Monitor Control App Insights 40:55 Unify Network Issues 50:44 Wrapping Up with Humor
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Best Of CCP - 403: I Hope You Find Honest Work One Day
08/12/2025
Best Of CCP - 403: I Hope You Find Honest Work One Day
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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629: Balancing Tech Support: Accessibility, Solo Entrepreneurship & Innovative Solutions with Adam Rice
08/05/2025
629: Balancing Tech Support: Accessibility, Solo Entrepreneurship & Innovative Solutions with Adam Rice
In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts are joined by returning guest Adam Rice of Ask Adam. They discuss the challenges and benefits of being a solo tech support consultant, including balancing large business clients with residential work. Adam shares his innovative equitable pricing model, designed to make tech support accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. The conversation also touches on tools like TailScale and Alectrona Patch, effective strategies for leveraging tech tools as a solo consultant, and the nuances of building and maintaining client trust in both residential and business settings. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back, Adam Rice! 00:28 Adam's Background and Living in Philadelphia 02:08 Residential vs. Business Clients 02:47 Solo Consulting and Family Involvement 06:45 Challenges of Hiring and Subcontracting 16:35 Marketing Strategies and Client Demographics 21:39 Private Equity and Client Stability 27:20 Navigating Business Without Contracts 28:33 Shifting Focus to Residential Clients 29:58 The Importance of Client Relationships 31:47 Discussing Business Rates and Models 32:54 Implementing Equitable Pricing 35:03 Challenges and Benefits of Sliding Scale Pricing 48:58 Tools and Techniques for Business Efficiency 57:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
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