Humanize IT

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Nathan Whitaker discuss the importance of effectively communicating cybersecurity issues to CEOs and small business owners. They emphasize the need to shift the narrative from fear-based tactics to highlighting the value and benefits of cybersecurity. The discussion covers how to understand a CEO's perspective, the significance of building consumer confide...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and CJ Fairfield discuss the significant trends in the technology channel, particularly focusing on the impact of AI and automation on Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They explore how AI is evolving, its applications in daily tasks, and the importance of MSPs adapting to these changes to remain relevant. The discussion emphasizes the need for MSPs to be knowledg...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Neil Groulx discuss the evolving landscape of security services, emphasizing the shift from niche to general industry as more Managed Service Providers (MSPs) enter the space. They explore the importance of compliance as a service, the nuances of penetration testing across different industries, and the need for tailored security solutions that address unique a...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Neil Groulx discuss the importance of niche services for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), particularly focusing on the call center industry. Neil shares his journey into this niche, highlighting the challenges and unique needs of call centers. They explore the development of custom software solutions to address these needs and the potential for expanding into...

In this episode of the Humanized IT podcast, Adam Walter and Todd Kane discuss the critical aspects of operational leadership within Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They explore the challenges faced by service managers, the importance of continuous education, and the need for a strong operational foundation to support growth. The conversation also delves into the distinctions between visionary a...

In this conversation, Matthew Hache discusses the importance of team training and building a strong culture within Managed Service Providers (MSPs). He emphasizes the need for organizations to embrace training as a means to retain talent and foster growth. The discussion covers various aspects of mentorship, the significance of understanding the business side of IT, and the concept of the 'Her...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Matthew Hache discuss the challenges faced by Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in growing their businesses. They explore the reasons behind MSPs' reluctance to charge for their services, the importance of tracking metrics for profitability, and the impact of imposter syndrome on professionals in the industry. Matthew emphasizes the value of expertise and e...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the importance of building strong relationships with clients through various engagement strategies, including lunch and learns and stakeholder interviews. They emphasize that the core value lies in the relationships formed rather than just the transactional aspects of business. The discussion also highlights the significance of leveraging...

In this conversation, Sam Weiner shares his journey from being a software developer to becoming a successful Managed Service Provider (MSP) focused on the winery industry. He discusses the importance of building relationships with clients, conducting effective assessments, and leveraging technology to help businesses grow. The conversation emphasizes the value of listening to clients and having hi...

In this conversation, Adam Walter interviews Sam Weiner, an IT service provider specializing in wineries. Sam shares his unique journey into the IT service industry, highlighting the complexities of the winery business model and the importance of understanding client needs. He discusses how he transitioned from a software developer to an MSP, focusing on creating value through technology solutions...

In this episode, Adam Walter, Jonathan Crowe, and Skip Ziegler discuss their predictions for the upcoming year, focusing on economic trends, technology advancements, and the importance of community engagement. They explore the rise of Discord as a professional communication tool, the significance of niche markets for MSPs, and the evolving landscape of compliance and security. The conversation als...

In this festive episode, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the joys and challenges of the holiday season, particularly focusing on balancing work and personal life during Christmas. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with on-call duties, the importance of mental health breaks, and the unique challenges that come with the holiday season. The conversation also touches on the si...

In this conversation, Adam Walter, Joe Rojas, and Jeff Loehr discuss the decline of Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry. They explore the reasons why QBRs are failing, emphasizing the need for MSPs to shift their focus from technology to business solutions. The discussion highlights the importance of niching for MSPs, providing real-world examples of su...

In this conversation, Adam, Joe, and Jeff discuss the importance of Strategic Business Reviews (SBRs) for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They emphasize the need for MSPs to shift their focus from technical discussions to understanding their clients' business needs. The conversation covers how to effectively listen to clients, identify their unique challenges, and leverage technology to provide...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the pervasive issue of 'ghosting' in IT, where professionals fail to communicate effectively with clients and vendors. They emphasize the importance of maintaining regular communication to prevent misunderstandings and to foster strong relationships. The discussion covers strategies for building connections beyond mere transactions, the ne...

In this conversation, Mike Giovaninni shares insights on how Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can build strong relationships with clients through effective communication and understanding their needs. He emphasizes the importance of listening, being a trusted advisor, and creating value through solutions that help clients achieve their business goals. The discussion highlights the role of empathy...

In this conversation, Adam Walter, Richard Bauer, and Skip Ziegler discuss the challenges and opportunities that Managed Service Providers (MSPs) face as they approach the end of the year. They emphasize the importance of strategic planning, understanding client needs, and setting clear goals for the upcoming year. The discussion highlights the need for MSPs to move beyond technical solutions and...

summaryIn this conversation, Adam Walter and Skip Ziegler discuss the importance of overcoming excuses and taking action in both personal and professional contexts. They explore the mindset shift required to move from analysis paralysis to proactive behavior, emphasizing the need for efficiency and the dangers of waiting for the perfect moment. The discussion also highlights the value of learning...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Jennii Kosmowski discuss innovative ways to enhance cybersecurity awareness through gamification. They explore the concept of typosquatting, the importance of password management, and the necessity of enforcing cybersecurity policies within organizations. The discussion emphasizes the need for engaging methods to educate users about cybersecurity risks and bes...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Anup from ThreatMate discuss the importance of continuous threat exposure management and the role of managed service providers in cybersecurity. They explore the complexities of attack surfaces, the significance of blue team activities, and the emerging trend of compliance as a service. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective vulnerability management...

In this episode, Adam Walter discusses with Anup from ThreatMate about the importance of vulnerability management and how managed service providers can offer high-margin security services without being experts. They explore the concept of continuous threat exposure management, the role of AI in simplifying security solutions, and the significance of communicating security metrics effectively to cl...

In this conversation, Adam and Jenny discuss the intricacies of password management, especially in the context of cybersecurity awareness. They explore the evolution of password management tools, the debate surrounding the use of password managers, and the critical importance of multi-factor authentication. The discussion also touches on shared passwords, innovative strategies for password managem...

In this engaging conversation, Adam Walter and Jenny discuss the unique approach of using a zombie apocalypse scenario to teach business continuity planning and cybersecurity awareness. They explore how thinking about extreme situations can help businesses prepare for real-world crises, emphasizing the importance of data management, communication, and team dynamics. The discussion also highlights...

In this conversation, Adam Walter interviews Wayne Kramer from Symoda, discussing the importance of customer experience in the MSP industry. They explore the layers of customer communication, the significance of understanding customer needs, and the evolving landscape of technology and its impact on service delivery. Wayne emphasizes the need for MSPs to adapt to changing expectations and to build...

In this conversation, Adam Walter and Dave discuss the importance of networking for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and vendors at industry conferences. They explore strategies for maximizing conference attendance, the significance of pre-event preparation, and the value of building relationships with both vendors and peers. The discussion also touches on overcoming introversion in networking sit...