MSP Unplugged
This podcast is where we discuss different ways to run your I.T. business whether you are a one-person shop or leading a growing IT Service provider. This is the place for you.
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Rick Smith Unplugged: Pivots, Hard Calls & the 2026 MSP Game Plan
03/18/2026
Rick Smith Unplugged: Pivots, Hard Calls & the 2026 MSP Game Plan
Co-host Rick Smith drops in for a reflective deep dive: Recent pivots that reshaped his MSP (and why some changes hurt before they helped), key lessons from the past year, and his no-BS predictions/advice for MSPs finishing Q1 strong and crushing the back half of 2026. If you're debating a big shift in your business—pricing, tools, culture, or strategy—this one's loaded with actionable takeaways from the trenches. Tune in weekly on https://youtube.com/mspunplugged for more actionable MSP advice. Like, subscribe, and hit notifications! Also available on your favorite podcast app. Don't forget tickets for TechConUnplugged at https://techconunplugged.com.
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Should Your MSP Start a Podcast The Storytelling Advantage
03/11/2026
Should Your MSP Start a Podcast The Storytelling Advantage
Podcasting is not about being famous. It is about being relevant. In this episode, Jose Torres of Dimelo Media and I talk about how storytelling helps MSPs build trust, create community, and stay top of mind. If you have ever wondered whether your MSP should start a podcast or how to do it the right way, this episode is for you.
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Secure Your Own House First: Degly Mendez on MSP Cyber Education
02/24/2026
Secure Your Own House First: Degly Mendez on MSP Cyber Education
In this insightful episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron welcomes Degly Mendez, CEO of Avanzar IT Systems (South Pasadena, CA) and Vice Chair of the GTIA ISAO Advisory Group. Degly shares his journey into MSP leadership, his focus on cybersecurity for small/mid-sized businesses, and practical ways to make education a real defensive layer. Key takeaways include: Building ongoing cybersecurity awareness for non-tech-savvy SMB clients (beyond one-offs like "Be Cyber Aware" sessions) — challenges, retention tips, and scaling methods (webinars, tools, gamified scenarios) Metrics and stories showing when education truly reduces incidents "Secure your own house first": Fortifying Avanzar internally (team training, processes, tough investments) to avoid being the weak link Common MSP pitfalls on internal security (vendor risks, tool sprawl, early practice drops) and how to fix them Using the "Run, Protect, Grow" IT budgeting framework to prioritize Protect (including people education) without it feeling like a cost sink Evolving programs for AI-driven threats/opportunities — recent changes to stay ahead Best advice for resource-constrained MSPs: Scaling education without burnout or client overload, plus one non-negotiable step to fortify your own business now Rapid-fire: Underrated resource/habit for scaling efforts, biggest "aha" on internal ops, and the one cyber education practice he'd mandate industry-wide Perfect for MSP owners, cybersecurity pros, and IT leaders focused on proactive defense, people-powered security, and leading by example in a resource-tight world. Tune in weekly on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged for more actionable MSP advice. Like, subscribe, and hit notifications! Also available on your favorite podcast app. Don't forget tickets for TechConUnplugged at TechConunplugged.com. #MSP #Cybersecurity #CyberEducation #MSPsecurity #RunProtectGrow #SMBcyber #ITLeadership
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MSP Leadership Strifes: Marcial Velez on Culture, Burnout & Growth
02/11/2026
MSP Leadership Strifes: Marcial Velez on Culture, Burnout & Growth
In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron welcomes back Marcial Velez, Founder & CEO of Xperteks—a nationally recognized NYC-based MSP honored on CRN's MSP 500 list multiple years running. Marcial opens up about the real "strifes" of leadership: Building and evolving Xperteks from startup to award-winning firm—what unexpected changes and make-or-break moments tested him most Avoiding founder burnout through rituals, boundaries, and staying sane during crises Intentionally shaping team culture in a high-pressure IT world (remote/hybrid challenges, motivation, loyalty) — one change that transformed morale Scaling without losing the family feel: navigating growth tensions, roles, and vision clashes Common leadership pitfalls MSPs make (over-relying on tech fixes vs. people processes) and how to counter them A raw mistake in culture-building he wishes he'd caught earlier—and the key lesson on the human side of MSPs Why culture will be make-or-break in the next few years (generational shifts, AI workflows, talent wars) + the one people/culture investment paying off now Rapid-fire: Top leadership resource lately, current "strife" he's tackling, and the one industry cultural fix he'd wave a wand for Packed with vulnerable, practical insights for MSP owners, leaders, and teams—whether you're solo, scaling, or fighting to keep culture strong. Tune in weekly on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged for unfiltered MSP leadership advice. Like, subscribe, and hit notifications so you never miss an episode! Available on your favorite podcast app.
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Making IT Boring: Boutique MSP Lessons w/ Sean Inman of Inman Technology Solutions
02/03/2026
Making IT Boring: Boutique MSP Lessons w/ Sean Inman of Inman Technology Solutions
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron sits down with Sean Inman, CISSP, Founder & CEO of Inman Technologies in Fort Worth, TX. Sean shares his journey from enterprise information security to launching his own MSP in 2018, driven by frustrations with corporate IT and a passion for serving small to mid-sized businesses. Key highlights: Turning "human firewall" training from a checkbox into real incident reduction (with surprising client stories & metrics) Shifting from break-fix to proactive, predictable monthly revenue models — pitfalls, scaling tips, and advice for hybrid MSPs Emerging cyber threats MSPs should prioritize right now (beyond phishing/ransomware basics) and how he's adapting his stack The hardest parts of scaling a high-touch boutique MSP: talent, burnout, knowledge sharing, and one change he'd make if starting over Biggest mindset traps leaving businesses (and MSPs) vulnerable — plus a quick diagnostic question to uncover gaps 3-5 year make-or-break trends for MSPs: cybersecurity, AI, compliance, and the one investment Sean urges IT pros to make today Rapid-fire: Underrated security tool/practice, biggest "wish I knew sooner" business lesson, and the one tedious MSP task he'd automate overnight Whether you're considering going independent, optimizing your MSP operations, or staying ahead in cybersecurity and AI, this episode delivers practical, timely insights from a thoughtful leader in the space. Tune in weekly on YouTube.com/MSPUnplugged for more unfiltered MSP advice. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Also available on your favorite podcast app.
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Classic Replay: The LinkedIn Advantage – Unlock MSP Leads with LinkedIn
01/27/2026
Classic Replay: The LinkedIn Advantage – Unlock MSP Leads with LinkedIn
Flashback Tuesday: Fan-Favorite Edition! Kicking off the week with one of our all-time most requested episodes — the LinkedIn masterclass that MSP owners and pros keep circling back to for serious business wins. In this evergreen episode of MSP Unplugged, we revisit our powerhouse conversation with Richard Bliss, founder of BlissPoint Consulting and a leading voice in LinkedIn branding and social selling. Richard delivers straight-to-the-point, actionable tactics to turn LinkedIn into a true business development powerhouse — far beyond just a digital resume. We break down how MSPs can establish real authority, spark authentic prospect conversations, and convert engagement into measurable revenue growth. Whether you're reviving an old profile or sharpening an existing strategy, these insights are just as powerful today as they were when this episode first dropped — and that's exactly why fans keep asking for the replay! 💡 Timeless Takeaways That Still Hit Hard: Optimizing your LinkedIn profile to attract your ideal clients and partners Posting vs. engaging: Why you need both dialed in for maximum visibility The unbeatable combo of consistency + genuine storytelling to stand out The most common LinkedIn traps MSPs fall into (and simple fixes to avoid them) Richard's go-to tools and proven tactics for expanding reach and driving leads 📢 If you're an MSP owner, sales leader, or tech pro who's been sleeping on LinkedIn's potential, this fan-favorite will fire you up and give you the roadmap to make it a consistent lead-gen machine. It's no surprise this one stays in heavy rotation — pure gold that never goes out of style! Full Video Podcast (Flashback Episode): Connect with us! MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from ProdigyTeks Email: Rick Smith from Renactus Technology Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from 5K Technical Services Richard Bliss from BlissPoint Consulting
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Sell a Copier! with Chris Cool
01/20/2026
Sell a Copier! with Chris Cool
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron sits down with Chris Cool, Founder and CEO of Cool Technology Group Inc., a Houston/Texas-based managed IT services provider specializing in cybersecurity, cloud solutions, remote/on-site support, and more for small to medium businesses. Chris shares his inspiring journey—from his days as a University of Colorado student-athlete spending more time in the mountains than in class, to diving into the copier and telecom industry in Dallas in the early 2000s. He climbed the ranks quickly, starting as an Account Executive at Intermedia Communications and rising to Senior VP on the West Coast (while based in Houston), building, growing, and even selling multiple organizations along the way. The conversation gets real about launching Cool Technology Group in January 2020—just as the pandemic hit—and how Chris navigated that chaos to build a thriving MSP. He opens up about the secret sauce to standing out in a crowded market, the toughest hurdles he's faced (and how he pushed through), his proudest moments, balancing family life in Tomball, Texas, with running the company, and his outlook on emerging trends like cybersecurity threats and tech advancements that small businesses need to watch. Whether you're a solo MSP operator or scaling a team, this episode is packed with practical insights, entrepreneurial grit, and advice for anyone dreaming of starting or growing their own IT services business.
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Back in the Studio: MSP Updates, Big Changes & Lessons Learned
01/13/2026
Back in the Studio: MSP Updates, Big Changes & Lessons Learned
Paco’s back in the studio after a packed stretch — welcome to the first episode of MSP Unplugged's return! Catch up on the latest: Quick tips & tricks: Affordable branded backups with Aaron's Auto Glass Fabs (just $66!), seamless data migration via SQLBackupAndFTP, and troubleshooting ControlOne VPN/DNS issues. Big updates at ProdigyTeks: Ditching bundled Microsoft costs (saving thousands!), shifting from flat IG tiers to flexible Service Desk, NOC, and SOC offerings — now with built-in legal protections if clients opt out of security. Real talk from the last 6 months managing a roll-up: Everyone faces the same resource challenges (time & money), no one's "better" — just different approaches, and how I can now offer MSPs real lifelines for scaling, exit, or legacy. Community vibes: Hosting a local MSP lunch with JATAG Solutions (DM if interested!), plus big news on TechCon Unplugged (date/location reveal soon!). RESOURCES & LINKS - - CTAs - Subscribe on Apple/Spotify/YouTube: - Join the newsletter: CREDITS Hosts: Paco Lebron - /
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New Year Catch-Up: Jeff Halash Returns After 4 Years!
01/06/2026
New Year Catch-Up: Jeff Halash Returns After 4 Years!
Join us live right before we ring the new year as we reconnect with Jeff Halash, former host of the Computer Repair Podcast and MSP Unplugged. After four years away, Jeff shares what he’s been up to, his thoughts on the MSP industry today, and insights from his journey. Don’t miss this nostalgic and informative conversation for tech enthusiasts and MSP pros alike! MSP Unplugged https://mspunplugged.com/ Paco Lebron from ProdigyTeks:Powered by MSP Owners Group Email: paco@mspunplugged.com John Dubinsky formerly of the Maven Group Jeff Halash formerly of TechNut PC
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UniFi Ubiquiti: One Year Later – Lessons Learned & Pro Tips
12/24/2025
UniFi Ubiquiti: One Year Later – Lessons Learned & Pro Tips
In this Christmas Eve Edition, We discuss our Network Upgrade Insights at ProdigyTeks! Join us as our very own John Dubinsky joins the podcast to discuss our journey from our previous network provider to UniFi network equipment. We’ll cover practical tips, smart tricks, and key lessons learned while adopting the new UniFi stack. Perfect for MSPs and IT pros looking to streamline their network game! --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged https://mspunplugged.com/ Paco Lebron from ProdigyTeks:Powered by MSP Owners Group Email: paco@mspunplugged.com John Dubinsky formerly of the Maven Group
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Larry Meador and Cavelo: Elevating MSP Channel Success with Cybersecurity Innovation
12/24/2025
Larry Meador and Cavelo: Elevating MSP Channel Success with Cybersecurity Innovation
Discover how industry veteran Larry Meador, Cavelo’s new Channel Chief, is transforming the MSP channel. Cavelo empowers Managed Service Providers with a unified Attack Surface Management and Data Security Posture Management platform—offering automated data discovery, classification, vulnerability management, and compliance-ready solutions. Built for MSPs and MSSPs, Cavelo helps partners reduce cyber risk, streamline operations, and deliver scalable, data-first security services that boost profitability and client trust. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Powered by Email: Rick Smith from Email: Justin Gilliam from
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Justin Gilliam’s Journey Into the MSP World | Bacheler Technologies Story
12/06/2025
Justin Gilliam’s Journey Into the MSP World | Bacheler Technologies Story
Justin Gilliam of Bacheler Technologies shares his journey into the MSP space. From early challenges to building a thriving business. Tune in to hear how he carved his path and what’s next for his MSP adventure. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Justin Gilliam from
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How XCtium Climbed to #9 on MSP 501: Russ Reeder’s Vision for the Future
10/28/2025
How XCtium Climbed to #9 on MSP 501: Russ Reeder’s Vision for the Future
📍“XTIUM’s CEO Russ Reeder shares his vision for scaling the company both organically and through strategic mergers and acquisitions. Discover how AI is shaping their future and the journey that propelled them to rank #9 on the prestigious MSP 501 list. Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. 🔗 Learn more about the summit: MSP Summit 2025 Overview: https://themspsummit.com/ Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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Xperteks Big Reveal: Marcial Velez Drops New Innovations at MSP Summit
10/08/2025
Xperteks Big Reveal: Marcial Velez Drops New Innovations at MSP Summit
Marcial Velez from Xperteks shares inspiring stories and unveils innovative solution live from the MSP Summit. 📍 Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. 🔗 Learn more about the summit: MSP Summit 2025 Overview: https://themspsummit.com/ Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Marcial Velez from
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Inside the MSP Summit: Kelly Danziger on Informa’s Vision for the Channel & MSP Summit
09/23/2025
Inside the MSP Summit: Kelly Danziger on Informa’s Vision for the Channel & MSP Summit
In this exclusive interview, Kelly Danziger—General Manager and VP of Channel at Informa Tech—shares her journey into the tech space and the strategic direction Informa is taking to elevate the Channel Partners Expo and MSP Summit. 🎙️ Topics Covered: Kelly’s path to leadership in the channel space How Informa is shaping the future of MSPs through innovation and collaboration Highlights from the MSP Summit 2025, including AI, platform strategy, and cybersecurity The importance of open platforms and integration for MSP success Insights from top industry leaders and what’s next for the channel community 📍 Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. 🔗 Learn more about the summit: MSP Summit 2025 Overview: https://themspsummit.com/ Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Kelly Danziger from
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EP 281 Securing the Stack with Todyl
09/12/2025
EP 281 Securing the Stack with Todyl
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, we catch up with Ken Patterson from Todyl, recorded on-site at PAX8 Beyond. Ken shares how Todyl is helping MSPs simplify and strengthen their security stack through an all-in-one platform approach—empowering providers to deliver enterprise-grade protection with ease and efficiency. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Ken Patterson from
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EP 284 Get Your Stuff Together with Better Tracker
09/09/2025
EP 284 Get Your Stuff Together with Better Tracker
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Kevin Lancaster from Channel Program to explore a game-changing new tool designed to streamline operations for MSPs — Better Tracker. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by vendor chaos, missed follow-ups, or scattered data, this episode is your wake-up call. Kevin breaks down why traditional tracking systems aren’t cutting it anymore and how Better Tracker was built specifically with MSP pain points in mind. From simplifying your vendor stack to reclaiming your time, this conversation delivers actionable insight on taking back control. If you're ready to "get your s#!t together" and upgrade how your MSP runs, don’t miss this one. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Kevin Lancaster from
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EP 283 Summer Recap & What’s Next for MSP Unplugged
09/02/2025
EP 283 Summer Recap & What’s Next for MSP Unplugged
We’re back in the studio! After a summer packed with live recordings, travel, and behind-the-scenes hustle, we’re kicking things off with a full recap episode. In this laid-back session, we catch you up on everything we’ve been working on—both personally and professionally. From summer takeaways to future goals, hear what’s on deck for MSP Unplugged, upcoming events, content plans, and what to expect from the podcast as we roll into the rest of the year. Whether you’ve been with us all summer or are just tuning back in, this is your chance to get reconnected with the show and the mission behind it. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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EP 282 Putting MSPs First – GTIA’s New Era
08/26/2025
EP 282 Putting MSPs First – GTIA’s New Era
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Dan Wensley, CEO of GTIA, to unpack the powerful transformation of the Global Technology Industry Association. Dan shares how GTIA is shifting from certification-focused roots to becoming a purpose-built, community-first nonprofit dedicated to helping MSPs, vendors, and IT professionals thrive. We dive into GTIA’s new mission, explore its four foundational pillars—People, Resources, Community, and Advancement—and get a first look at how this reinvention is setting a bold new course for the channel. If you're an MSP looking for community, support, and a seat at the table, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Dan Wensley from
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EP 280 Legacy in Action – The Kenyatta Computers Story
08/12/2025
EP 280 Legacy in Action – The Kenyatta Computers Story
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nahjee Maybin, CEO of Kenyatta Computer Services, a Denver-based MSP. Nahjee shares how he’s building on the legacy his father began—transforming Kenyatta Computers from a family vision into a thriving IT services company. It’s a powerful story of growth, purpose, and honoring the past while embracing the future of managed services. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Nahjee Maybin from
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EP 279 Navigating Information with OpenText
08/05/2025
EP 279 Navigating Information with OpenText
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we’re joined by Mike DePalma, VP of Business Development at OpenText. OpenText is a global leader in information management software, helping organizations—especially MSPs—securely capture, store, manage, and unlock actionable insights from enterprise data. Mike walks us through how OpenText is empowering MSPs to leverage cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and automation tools—enabling them to deliver stronger compliance, smarter workflows, and deeper customer trust in an evolving IT landscape. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Mike DePalma from
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EP 278 Live from Pax8 Beyond with Rob Rae
07/29/2025
EP 278 Live from Pax8 Beyond with Rob Rae
What would a visit to Pax8 Beyond be without a conversation with the legendary Rob Rae? In this episode, Rob joins us to discuss the latest developments at Pax8 and trends shaping the IT services industry. We also dive into why this is the final Pax8 Beyond event in Denver. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Rob Rae from
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EP 277 Elevating MSPs with 5G: The Rythmz Advantage
07/17/2025
EP 277 Elevating MSPs with 5G: The Rythmz Advantage
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, recorded at PAX8 Beyond, we sit down with Leonard Dimiceli, VP of Channel at . Rythmz is opening up new opportunities for MSPs in the 5G space, helping providers deliver enhanced connectivity and better customer experiences in challenging environments. Leonard shares how their forward-thinking approach is empowering MSPs to expand their offerings and meet client demands in ways traditional solutions can't. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Leonard Dimiceli from
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EP 276 Checking in with Checkpoint – Live from PAX8 Beyond
07/15/2025
EP 276 Checking in with Checkpoint – Live from PAX8 Beyond
In this on-site episode of MSP Unplugged, we’re live from PAX8 Beyond with special guest Dave Meister, Global Channel Leader at Check Point Software Technologies. We sit down with Dave to talk about the evolving cybersecurity landscape, how Check Point is enabling MSPs to stay ahead of modern threats, and what’s coming next in partner enablement, AI, and threat prevention. It’s a candid, high-value conversation from the expo floor — packed with insight for today’s security-focused MSPs. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from David Meister from
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EP 275 Live from TechCon Unplugged – Chicago Road Show!
06/24/2025
EP 275 Live from TechCon Unplugged – Chicago Road Show!
In this special live episode of MSP Unplugged, recorded at the TechCon Unplugged Road Show in Chicago, we shift the focus from problems to solutions. Following our March session in New Jersey where we asked, "What keeps you up at night?", this time we’re talking about what we’re doing to sleep at night. We dig into the strategies, changes, tools, and mindset shifts we’re implementing to keep operations running smoothly, protect our clients, and take some of the pressure off as MSPs. From automation to smarter client management — this is about staying ahead, staying sane, and getting some well-earned rest. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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EP 274 Here Comes MSPOGs
06/18/2025
EP 274 Here Comes MSPOGs
Live from Pax8 Beyond 25 in Denver, CO! In this special on-the-road episode, Rick Smith and Corey Kirkendoll sit down with Juan Fernandez and Paco Lebron to talk about their bold new venture: MSPOgs — a platform built by MSPs for MSPs. We unpack the origin story of MSPOgs, why the MSP community needs a new kind of leadership, and how this initiative aims to foster collaboration, mentorship, and real peer support. Paco steps away from the co-host mic to share his personal passion behind the mission, alongside Juan's relentless drive to uplift the industry. If you’ve ever felt like you're building your MSP in a silo — this episode will hit home. Highlights: The vision behind MSPOgs and what makes it different How MSPs can find strength through community Real stories from the front lines of MSP leadership Subscribe for weekly episodes of MSP Unplugged — where real stories meet real strategies for IT pros and MSPs. #MSP #MSPOgs #Pax8Beyond #ITCommunity #MSPUnplugged #JuanFernandez #PacoLebron #CoreyKirkendoll #MSPLife #MSPLeadership Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from Juan Fernandez
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EP 273 What's in your Tool Bag? Choosing the Right Stack for Your MSP
06/03/2025
EP 273 What's in your Tool Bag? Choosing the Right Stack for Your MSP
In this week’s episode of MSP Unplugged, we open up the digital tool bag—not to list brands or promote platforms, but to talk strategy. Whether you’re building your MSP from scratch or re-evaluating your tech stack, this conversation is about making smarter, more sustainable choices. We dive into the mindset behind tool selection: 🧠 What questions you should be asking 🧰 How to build a flexible, future-ready stack 📉 What happens when you over-tool or under-tool ⚙️ Why integration and workflow should lead the conversation If you’re serious about efficiency, profitability, and building a business that scales—this episode is your blueprint. #MSPUnplugged #ClientOnboarding #MSPProcesses #CustomerExperience #MSPBusiness Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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EP 272 Vendor Loyalty: Embracing Innovation and Excellence with Our New Partner
05/27/2025
EP 272 Vendor Loyalty: Embracing Innovation and Excellence with Our New Partner
Breaking up with a vendor is only the beginning. In this week’s MSP Unplugged, we take you behind the scenes of what happens next. We share how we prepared, planned, and executed the transition to a new vendor—without disrupting service or compromising client trust. We won’t name names, but we will tell you the exact framework we used to: Evaluate vendors the right way Offboard with professionalism Onboard with confidence Set expectations for support, communication, and service from day one If you’re an MSP thinking about switching tools or vendors, this is your playbook for doing it right. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from the front lines of IT! #MSPUnplugged #ClientOnboarding #MSPProcesses #CustomerExperience #MSPBusiness Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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EP 271 Microsoft 365 Essentials for MSPs: Tools, Tips, and Best Practices
05/20/2025
EP 271 Microsoft 365 Essentials for MSPs: Tools, Tips, and Best Practices
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we break down how we use Microsoft 365 to run a lean, secure, and efficient MSP. From managing clients and automating workflows to enhancing security and collaboration, we share our favorite tools, real-world tips, and proven best practices. Whether you’re just adopting Microsoft 365 or want to take your usage to the next level, this episode is packed with value. 🔧 Tools we use 🔐 Security strategies 📊 Productivity hacks 🧠 Lessons from the field 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights from the front lines of IT! #MSPUnplugged #ClientOnboarding #MSPProcesses #CustomerExperience #MSPBusiness Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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EP 270 Vendor Break-ups: When Staying Costs More Than Leaving
05/06/2025
EP 270 Vendor Break-ups: When Staying Costs More Than Leaving
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we dive into a topic every MSP faces eventually: when it’s time to part ways with a vendor. Whether it’s poor support, broken promises, rising costs, or lack of innovation, sticking with the wrong vendor can hold your business back. We discuss the warning signs that it’s time to reevaluate the relationship, how to assess the real cost of staying, and the steps to take for a smooth transition. We also share personal experiences and tips on navigating tough conversations, maintaining professionalism, and protecting your clients during a switch. Key takeaways: Red flags that signal a vendor relationship is failing How to measure the cost of inefficiency vs. loyalty The right way to plan and execute a vendor transition Why staying too long can damage your service and reputation If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s time to make a change—or how to handle one—you won’t want to miss this episode. Full Video Podcast Link: --------------------------------------------------- Connect with us! --------------------------------------------------- MSP Unplugged Paco Lebron from Email: Rick Smith from Email: Corey L Kirkendoll from
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