The Business Technology Podcast with Scott Woods & Alec Modica
Welcome to The Business Technology Podcast hosted by Scott Woods and Alec Modica, where decades of tech expertise meet real-world business insight. From IT headaches to AI breakthroughs — we’ve got you covered. Each week, we simplify the latest in technology, cybersecurity, and automation so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business.
info_outline
#13. Understanding the Role of Escrow
01/27/2026
#13. Understanding the Role of Escrow
Episode #13: In this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, Marlene from Only Escrow shares her journey in the escrow business, discussing the role of escrow in real estate transactions, the challenges of running a business, and the importance of building trust with clients. She reflects on her past decisions, the lessons learned from financial struggles, and her vision for the future with her new initiative, Escrow Genius, aimed at educating and serving the community. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Escrow Services 02:48 Understanding the Role of Escrow 06:09 Choosing a Trustworthy Escrow Company 08:59 Marlene's Journey into Business Ownership 12:11 Challenges Faced in the Early Days 15:05 Growth and Learning in Business 17:54 Reflections on Past Decisions 20:44 Navigating the Real Estate Market 24:12 Financial Lessons Learned 27:07 Building Relationships with Clients 29:53 The Future of Escrow Genius 33:06 Community Engagement and Events 35:58 Market Insights and Predictions 38:52 Conclusion and Future Plans Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39691360
info_outline
#12. Navigating Windows 10 End of Life
01/20/2026
#12. Navigating Windows 10 End of Life
Episode #12: In this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, Scott and Elijah discuss the implications of Windows 10's end of life, the challenges businesses face with hardware compatibility, and the importance of security updates. They explore the options available for businesses, including the Extended Security Update (ESU) program, and the potential shift towards alternative operating systems like Mac. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to stay compliant and secure in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Windows 10 End of Life 03:12 The Impact of Technology on Business Operations 05:50 Understanding Windows 10 End of Life 09:04 Options for Businesses Facing Upgrade Challenges 11:52 Security Risks and Compliance Issues 14:49 Exploring Alternatives to Windows 17:59 Conclusion and Call to Action Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39691255
info_outline
#11. Mastering Lead Generation for Business Growth
01/13/2026
#11. Mastering Lead Generation for Business Growth
Episode #11: In this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, Scott and Mike Bakaic discuss effective lead generation strategies for business growth. They explore the importance of personal connections, social media engagement, and overcoming imposter syndrome in sales. The conversation emphasizes the value of in-person networking, building a list of suspects, and utilizing lead magnets to engage potential clients. They also highlight the significance of client transformation stories and testimonials in establishing credibility and trust. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to implement in their own lead generation efforts. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lead Generation Strategies 02:55 Understanding the Core Four Leads 05:50 The Importance of Personal Connections 09:10 Utilizing Social Media for Lead Generation 12:01 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Sales 14:52 The Power of In-Person Networking 18:11 Building a List of Suspects 21:02 Effective Lead Magnets and Engagement Strategies 23:54 The Role of Events in Lead Generation 27:08 Crafting Your Sales Pitch 30:06 Leveraging Client Transformation Stories 33:04 The Value of Testimonials and Social Proof 35:53 Final Thoughts on Lead Generation Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39690870
info_outline
#10. The Rising Importance of Cyber Insurance
01/06/2026
#10. The Rising Importance of Cyber Insurance
Episode #10: In this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, Scott and Alan discuss the critical topic of cyber insurance, particularly its rising importance for small and medium businesses (SMBs). They share real-life stories of businesses that faced denial of claims due to inadequate security measures, emphasizing the necessity of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and proper cybersecurity practices. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics regarding SMBs and cyber attacks, the complexities of insurance policies, and actionable steps for business owners to ensure they are adequately protected. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Cyber Insurance 02:49 Real Stories of Cyber Insurance Denials 06:06 Understanding Cyber Insurance Basics 08:52 The Importance of Multi-Factor Authentication 12:05 Best Practices for Cyber Insurance Policies Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39579335
info_outline
#9. Revolutionizing Password Security
12/16/2025
#9. Revolutionizing Password Security
Episode #9: In this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, Scott and Alec discuss the critical issue of password security in businesses. They explore the inherent risks associated with traditional password usage, the shift towards passwordless authentication methods, and the benefits of implementing such systems. The conversation also covers practical steps for businesses to transition to passwordless solutions, the challenges they may face, and the importance of fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness among employees. Takeaways: Passwords are a major security risk for businesses. 80% of cyber attacks are due to compromised credentials. Using unique logins for each employee is crucial. Passwordless authentication can significantly enhance security. Phishing attacks are less effective without passwords. Password resets can lead to high IT costs. Biometric logins improve user experience and efficiency. Transitioning to passwordless requires employee buy-in. A zero trust model enhances overall security. Training employees on cybersecurity is essential. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Password Security Risks 02:49 The Shift Towards Passwordless Authentication 06:04 Benefits of Passwordless Systems 08:59 Implementing Passwordless Solutions in Your Business 12:08 Challenges and Considerations for Transitioning 15:03 Conclusion and Future of Password Security Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39331530
info_outline
#8. Streamlining Your Tech Stack: Avoiding Redundancies
12/09/2025
#8. Streamlining Your Tech Stack: Avoiding Redundancies
Episode #8: In this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, Scott and Alec discuss the importance of auditing IT expenses and identifying redundant tools within a business's technology stack. They emphasize the need for businesses to evaluate their existing subscriptions, particularly those related to Microsoft tools, to avoid unnecessary costs. The conversation includes practical steps for conducting an IT audit, real-world examples of cost savings, and the significance of maximizing technology utilization to enhance business efficiency. Takeaways: Audit your existing IT stack to find duplicate tools. Microsoft offers many tools that can replace paid subscriptions. Encourage employees to use Microsoft Teams for collaboration. Collect all invoices to understand recurring charges. Categorize tools into collaboration, security, and productivity. Check existing platforms for included tools in your subscriptions. Find an MSP to help with IT audits if needed. Avoid paying for licenses of employees who have left. Set an annual reminder to review IT expenses. Train your team to fully utilize the technology you invest in. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Cost-Saving Strategies in IT 02:53 Identifying Redundant Tools in Your IT Stack 05:48 Auditing Your IT Expenses 08:48 Maximizing Technology Utilization 11:51 Real-World Examples of Cost Savings 14:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39331355
info_outline
#7. Transform Your Workspace: Ergonomic Tips for Enhanced Productivity
12/02/2025
#7. Transform Your Workspace: Ergonomic Tips for Enhanced Productivity
Episode #7: Ever wonder why your workstation leaves you feeling more exhausted than productive? On the Business Technology Podcast, we tackle this dilemma and share our personal journeys with ergonomic solutions that have transformed our work lives. From the liberating experience of using stand-up desks to the game-changing 28-2 rule, we've uncovered how small adjustments can lead to big improvements in comfort and efficiency. We also dig into the importance of monitor arms, screen size, and text scaling, revealing how these elements can ease eye strain and boost your overall well-being. We know that investing in ergonomic office setups can seem daunting, but the benefits are too significant to ignore. In this episode, we underscore the impact of quality ergonomic keyboards and chairs on reducing pain and enhancing typing speed. By offering employees customizable options, like adjustable monitors and mouse pointers, businesses can foster a healthier, more productive environment. Plus, implementing regular stretching reminders can be a vital tool against physical burnout and mental fog. Connect with us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more insights, and follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in business technology. Chapters: (00:00) Ergonomics and Productivity in the Workplace (09:05) Improving Workplace Ergonomics and Tech (13:07) Business Technology Podcast Resource Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39215890
info_outline
#6. Fortifying Your Digital World: Mastering Password Security and Management
11/18/2025
#6. Fortifying Your Digital World: Mastering Password Security and Management
Episode #6: Unlock the secrets of password security and fortify your defenses against ransomware with our latest episode. Learn how to transform your digital habits by discarding the dangerous practices of password sharing and the all-too-common sticky note storage. We promise to equip you with the knowledge to keep your organization's data fortress impenetrable. By drawing insightful analogies, such as treating passwords like personal toothbrushes, we illuminate the path to adopting safer business practices. Discover why the frequent resetting of passwords might be doing more harm than good and how multi-factor authentication serves as your best line of defense, akin to a robust home alarm system. Continue your journey to cyber resilience by mastering password management. Unearth the power of 16-character passwords, crafted from memorable phrases, to significantly enhance your security posture. We also discuss the merits of utilizing tools like LastPass and Microsoft's built-in manager, which simplify the complex world of password management, especially in professional settings. Stay ahead of the curve by regularly updating your credentials and ensuring your security measures are up-to-date. Finally, stay connected with us for more cutting-edge insights into business technology. Reach out on Instagram at ITS Telecom or LinkedIn at Integrated Telemanagement Services, and tune in via Apple Podcast, Spotify, or YouTube for easy access to our episodes. Chapters: (00:00) Password Security and Ransomware Protection (11:49) Password Management Best Practices (16:00) Tech Podcast Contact Information Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/39039480
info_outline
#5. Integrating AI in the Workplace: Balancing Potential with Security
11/11/2025
#5. Integrating AI in the Workplace: Balancing Potential with Security
Episode #5: Unlock the secrets to integrating AI into your workplace with confidence. Discover how to manage the rise of "shadow AI" and protect your company's sensitive data by learning from real-world cautionary tales like Samsung's accidental information leak. With upcoming regulations, such as California's law on AI record-keeping, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. We’ll guide you through crafting robust company policies that not only safeguard your data but also harness the power of AI tools like Microsoft’s Co-Pilot, ensuring they serve your business without overstepping boundaries. Join us as we navigate the complexities of balancing AI's potential with necessary security measures. From advocating a "human in the loop" approach to sharing insights on zero-trust frameworks and sensitivity labels in Windows, we'll discuss how businesses can maintain oversight and control. Don’t let AI become a double-edged sword in your organization. Instead, use our insights to re-evaluate your AI policies and consider innovative ways AI can streamline your procedures while maintaining a stronghold on security. Your feedback and questions are welcomed as we explore this rapidly evolving landscape together. Chapters: (00:00) AI Policies in the Workplace (11:14) Ensuring Security and Efficiency in AI Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/38988575
info_outline
#4. Is Your Business Prepared for a Natural Disaster?
11/04/2025
#4. Is Your Business Prepared for a Natural Disaster?
Episode #4: Can your business withstand the wrath of a natural disaster? We tackle this pressing question on the Business Technology Podcast, where we explore essential strategies for disaster planning, particularly for those of us in regions prone to wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Broadcasting from Southern California, we understand firsthand the havoc that power outages and connectivity issues can wreak on businesses. We share crucial insights on how to fortify your business against these disruptions, from securing an uninterruptible power supply for servers to investing in backup generators. Discover how transitioning to cloud-based solutions can boost security and reliability, ensuring your operations remain uninterrupted even when physical servers are compromised. Robust disaster recovery plans are no longer optional; they're a necessity for keeping the wheels turning when nature strikes. For those managing remote teams, the challenges are just as daunting. We discuss practical solutions to keep your remote workforce connected amidst internet outages at home. Secure and compliant machine setups are the foundation, but what about the complexities of managing individual home networks? We propose flexible access options, including mobile hotspots and dual internet providers, to safeguard business continuity. The episode underscores the value of cloud-based systems, such as hosted VoIP platforms, in maintaining seamless communication. Plus, we highlight the indispensable role of managed service providers (MSPs) in crafting a resilient business strategy, complete with secure data backup plans. Whether you're in the office or working remotely, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help your business weather any storm. Chapters: (00:00) Disaster Planning for Business Owners (09:11) Remote Work Disaster Planning and Solutions Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/38900750
info_outline
#3. Why Your Small Business Needs a Managed Service Provider (Tech Partner)
10/28/2025
#3. Why Your Small Business Needs a Managed Service Provider (Tech Partner)
Episode #3: Could transforming your IT strategy be the key to unlocking unprecedented efficiency and security for your business? On this episode of the Business Technology Podcast, we make a bold claim: Managed Service Providers (MSPs) aren't just a luxury for big corporations; they're an essential partner for businesses of all sizes aiming for long-term success. We unpack how MSPs offer proactive support that goes beyond the break-fix model, ensuring your IT systems are not just operational but optimized. By focusing on tech support, cybersecurity, and system monitoring, MSPs help mitigate risks, cut costs, and boost overall productivity. Whether you're laying the foundations of a new venture or steering a seasoned enterprise, the right IT infrastructure can be your secret weapon against vulnerabilities. Join us as we champion an educational approach over fear tactics, empowering small to medium-sized business owners to leverage technology effectively and confidently. The misconception that only large companies are vulnerable to cyberattacks is debunked, as we reveal how MSPs can safeguard smaller enterprises against sophisticated threats like ransomware. Our conversation highlights the value of building trust through education, showing how MSPs serve as indispensable partners in optimizing IT systems. This episode is packed with insights for business owners ready to make informed, strategic decisions about their technology needs, regardless of where they are in their journey. Listen in to discover how a curious, informed approach to IT management can transform your business landscape. Chapters: (00:00) Understanding Managed IT Services (10:54) Building Trust Through Education and Partnership Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/38800905
info_outline
#2. Protecting Your Business: Cybersecurity, Disaster Preparedness, and the Role of MSPs
10/21/2025
#2. Protecting Your Business: Cybersecurity, Disaster Preparedness, and the Role of MSPs
Episode #2: Unlock the secrets to safeguarding your business against cyber threats and boost your efficiency with our latest episode of the Business Technology Podcast. Scott and Alec are here to guide you through the maze of IT and cybersecurity, making them accessible and actionable for small and medium business owners. You’ll learn not only how to protect your enterprise from ransomware attacks but also the importance of adapting to the ever-changing technological landscape post-COVID, preparing for potential disasters like wildfires, and ensuring your business is ready for anything that comes its way. Our discussion focuses on the hidden impacts cybersecurity incidents have on small businesses and nonprofits. We share real-life stories that highlight the operational chaos and data breaches that can occur without proper awareness and education. Learn about the vital components of a resilient disaster recovery plan, the role of third-party backups, and how California nonprofits can benefit from the California Teleconnect Fund, freeing up resources for other critical areas. This knowledge is crucial for making informed technology decisions that enhance both security and efficiency while maintaining the flexibility to thrive. Finally, we navigate the often misunderstood value of managed service providers (MSPs) and how they can transform your business operations. Discover why many business leaders underestimate their vulnerability to IT risks and how proactive IT management can minimize downtime and maximize productivity. By empowering you with the right technology insights, we aim to help you focus on your core operations, leaving IT management to the experts. Join us in this journey toward achieving meaningful outcomes and stay tuned for more insights in our upcoming episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Chapters: (00:00) Simplifying Tech for Business Owners (07:04) Cybersecurity & IT Education for Business (18:15) IT Education and Business Success (21:59) Empowering Business Leaders Through Technology Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/38652225
info_outline
#1. Meet the ITS Telecom Founder Sharon Woods!
10/14/2025
#1. Meet the ITS Telecom Founder Sharon Woods!
Episode #1: Join us on a remarkable journey through the evolution of the telecommunications industry over the past 35 years. We sit down with our inspiring guest, founder Sharon Woods, who shares her personal story of starting out in the early 1990s with a small team in Southern California, guided by two visionary executive founders. She navigates us through her transition from employee to CEO, highlighting the pivotal moment when she boldly decided to buy out the founders to drive innovation and secure the company’s future. Her story is one of versatility, strategic decision-making, and staying true to the company’s mission while adapting to the rapidly changing tech landscape. Listen in as we explore the profound impact of deregulation in the 1990s and technological advancements like VoIP on the telecom industry. Our guest provides insight into how her company, ITS, maintained a competitive edge by focusing on personalized customer service and flexible solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the entry of cable companies and cellular technology, as well as how ITS offered viable alternatives to dominant market players. In this conversation, we uncover the significance of building trust through managed services, emphasizing the advantages of smaller providers in offering relationship-based services. Our guest candidly shares her experiences as a female CEO in a male-dominated industry, highlighting the importance of effective networking and collaboration. We celebrate the courage to embrace new challenges, both in business and personal life, as exemplified by The Lake Sirens, a vocal band formed by professional women. Through stories of business leadership and the pursuit of creative passions, we are reminded of the importance of lifelong learning and nurturing a supportive company culture. Chapters: (00:00) 35 Years of Business Technology Evolution (08:41) Technology Evolution Impacts Telecom Industry (22:13) Building Trust Through Managed Services (26:03) Lessons in Business Leadership and Networking (34:21) The Lake Sirens Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/38570130
info_outline
Trailer: Welcome to the Business Technology Podcast!
10/13/2025
Trailer: Welcome to the Business Technology Podcast!
Trailer: Welcome to The Business Technology Podcast hosted by Scott Woods and Alec Modica, where decades of tech expertise meet real-world business insight. From IT headaches to AI breakthroughs — we’ve got you covered. Each week, we simplify the latest in technology, cybersecurity, and automation so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business. Find us on , , and on our website:
/episode/index/show/d791b04f-7e0b-4053-b8c2-2242b73b304b/id/38557115