SMB Community Podcast podcast | Listen online for free

Available Episodes

5 of 510

Is Distribution Dead?
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss the evolving landscape of IT distribution and whether it is becoming obsolete. They reminisce about the days when IT professionals relied heavily on specific distributors and how the market shift has changed their role. They also touch on the U.S. Senate passing the budget bill, LinkedIn's top 50 startup list for 2025, Apple's advancements in satellite technology, and a change in leadership at Kaseya. Additionally, Amy announces the return of her scholarship program for Microsoft certifications, and James gives updates on his upcoming events. --- Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:48 MSP Question of the Week: Is Distribution Dead? 07:09 News Highlights: Senate Budget Bill and Government Shutdown 09:37 LinkedIn's Top 50 Startups for 2025 12:30 Apple's Satellite Technology and Future of Cellular 15:24 Kaseya's New CEO and Company Direction 17:54 Scholarship Program for Tech Certifications 19:45 Upcoming Events and Announcements 20:28 Closing Remarks --- New Book Release: I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats. Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve. Available now on Amazon! https://a.co/d/f2NKASI --- Sponsor Memo: Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6). If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out. There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com
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New Years: 2026 Strategy/Planning
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss the importance of timely year-end planning for IT professionals, suggesting October as the ideal start time for preparation. They cover effective strategies for developing annual goals, emphasizing the need for a personalized approach and tactical objectives. The hosts also examine the recent cloud outages from AWS and Azure, stressing the importance of diversifying cloud services. They touch on the growing presence of AI in technology and its implications for MSPs. Additionally, they explore the upcoming 50th anniversary of Apple and the rumors surrounding new product releases. The episode concludes with tips on maintaining high customer service standards and the excitement of holiday preparations. --- Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:54 MSP Question of the Week: New-Year Planning 08:51 News Highlights: AWS Outage 12:22 Tech Talk: Apple's 50th Anniversary and AI Innovations 14:41 Economic Insights: Tech Layoffs and MSP Growth 20:02 AI in Browsers and MSP Strategies 21:10 Holiday Preparations and Personal Stories 24:42 Conclusion and Farewell --- New Book Release: I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats. Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve. Available now on Amazon! https://a.co/d/f2NKASI --- Sponsor Memo: Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6). If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out. There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com
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25:18
How To Finish The Year Strong
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosts Amy and James discuss strategies for IT professionals to finish the year on top, including sales tips, inventory reduction, and tax advantages through IRS Tax Code Section 179. They also delve into the feasibility and future of humanoid household robots, debating their practicality and cost. Additionally, they touch on industry news such as the rising dominance of AMD processors, recent Microsoft 365 outages, and the importance of outcome-based funding over traditional MDF. The episode wraps up with details on an AI class and an upcoming Mastermind event in Newport Beach. --- Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:03 Weather and Seasonal Changes 02:07 MSP Question of the Week: Finishing the Year Strong: Tips and Strategies 08:07 The Future of Household Robots 14:15 Business and Tech News Highlights 25:58 Upcoming Events and Courses 27:53 Conclusion and Farewell --- New Book Release: I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats. Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve. Available now on Amazon! https://a.co/d/f2NKASI --- Sponsor Memo: Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6). If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out. There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com
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28:26
Enhancing AI Literacy for IT Professionals: An Interview with Leslie Dewey
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, hosted by James Kernan, special guest Leslie Dewey, CEO of Sweetwater Street, shares her expertise on artificial intelligence (AI). Leslie discusses her background in media and security, which led her to a passion for AI. She provides insights into AI literacy, automation benefits, and practical tips for business owners to integrate AI into their operations. The conversation also covers the importance of AI training, the challenges of data security, and ways to leverage AI as a competitive advantage. Leslie emphasizes the need for responsible AI use and offers guidance on navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape. --- Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction to the SMB Community Podcast 00:43 Meet Leslie Dewey: AI Guru and CEO of Sweetwater Street 01:13 Leslie's Journey into AI and Security 01:57 Sweetwater Street's Mission and AI Literacy 04:09 AI in Business: Benefits and Applications 05:57 Tips and Tricks for Using AI Tools 09:03 Deep Research and Competitive Analysis with AI 11:22 Monetizing AI and Data Security Challenges 15:46 Conclusion and Contact Information --- New Book Release: I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats. Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve. Available now on Amazon! https://a.co/d/f2NKASI --- Sponsor Memo: Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6). If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out. There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com
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17:01
Exploring Cyber Risk Management: An Interview with Kevin Schmidt
Overview: In this episode of the SMB Community Podcast, James Kernan interviews Kevin Schmidt from Coalition. They discuss the importance of cybersecurity and cyber risk management, focusing on Coalition's comprehensive approach that integrates cyber insurance with cybersecurity solutions. Kevin highlights the unique aspects of Coalition's services, which include active insurance and real-time risk assessments. He explains how their platform helps service providers discuss cybersecurity as a business risk, emphasizing the financial impact of cyber incidents on SMBs. Kevin also outlines their strategic partner program and upcoming events. Listeners are encouraged to contact Kevin for more information about Coalition's offerings and how they can collaborate. --- Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction to the SMB Community Podcast 01:06 Kevin Schmidt's Background and Career Journey 02:12 Overview of Coalition Security's Services 05:40 Deep Dive into Coalition's Cyber Risk Management Platform 11:17 Engaging with Coalition: How MSPs Can Benefit 16:18 Why Choose Coalition? 19:06 Upcoming Events and Future Plans for Coalition 20:14 How to Get in Touch with Coalition 21:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- New Book Release: I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats. Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve. Available now on Amazon! https://a.co/d/f2NKASI --- Sponsor Memo: Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6). If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out. There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com
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