IT Unplugged

Ever wondered what makes great IT support tick? Brandon and Stephen dive into the art of tech customer service, drawing from their experience in both IT and hospitality to reveal what really works - and what doesn't. In this candid discussion, they explore: • Why restaurant experience makes better IT professionals • How to be proactive without being annoying • Handling "emergencies"...

Wondering if your business needs a CIO but can't justify the full-time salary? Brandon and Joe unpack the growing trend of virtual CIOs and why businesses are turning to this flexible solution for their IT leadership needs. In this candid conversation, they explore: Why companies are choosing virtual CIOs over traditional ones Signs your business might be ready for shared IT leadership How vi...

Tired of the AI hype? Brandon and Stephen break down the real, practical ways businesses are using AI right now. From your first steps with ChatGPT to advanced tools that can transform your workflow, discover how to leverage AI without getting lost in the noise. In this episode, you'll learn: The simplest way to start using AI in your business today How to write prompts that get results (and...

In this episode, Brandon and Joe break down cybersecurity myths and reveal why size doesn't matter when it comes to cyber threats. They share a surprising truth: basic protection isn't as complex or expensive as you might think. Get practical insights on: Why even 5-person companies need cybersecurity now The real reason bigger companies face different challenges (hint: it's not wha...

Get ready as we take you deeper into the world where business and technology collide. We're bringing you straight talk with business leaders about their real IT challenges and victories. From construction sites to hospital floors, we're exploring how different industries tackle today's biggest tech hurdles. What's in store: Inside looks at Security Operations Centers How health...

In this candid conversation, Brandon and Stephen explore how companies can build stronger tech cultures - from small manufacturers to tech giants. Discover why some employees resist new technology, and how smart leaders turn that resistance into innovation. You'll learn: Why giving everyone admin access isn't always smart (and what to do instead) How one machinist went from tech-resistan...

Tune in to the latest episode of IT Unplugged where we dive into future-proofing your business tech! Brandon and Steven explore the evolving IT landscape, covering essential topics like cybersecurity challenges, AI advancements, and best practices for small and medium-sized businesses. Learn about emerging threats like WORM GPT, the importance of user training, and how to protect sensitive data wh...

IT Roadmapping: Fuel Your Business Growth | IT Unplugged Brandon and Joe break down IT roadmapping on this week's IT Unplugged. We dig into why planning your tech strategy is crucial, even if you're not an IT whiz. Learn how to: Align your technology with real business goals Get buy-in from skeptical executives Overcome common planning pitfalls We share a recent success story that saved...

In this essential episode of IT Unplugged, Brandon and Joe unpack the critical elements of building a top-tier IT and cybersecurity team in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. They kick off by exploring the vital balance between technical prowess and cultural fit when hiring for IT security roles. Joe shares insider tips on identifying cybersecurity talent that goes beyond just certif...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Joe LaChapell, VP of IT at M2 Technology, as he shares his journey from aspiring teacher to tech leader. With over 20 years of experience in warehousing leadership, Joe offers unique insights on team building, leveraging individual strengths, and fostering a positive workplace culture. Discover how Joe's background in coaching basketball translates t...

Dive into the unique IT challenges faced by video and photo professionals with Tony Reale, founder of Creative Edge Productions and NextWaveDV.  In this episode of IT Unplugged, discover essential strategies for managing massive file sizes, implementing robust backup systems, and navigating the complexities of modern creative workflows.  Tony shares invaluable insights on balancing high-tech needs...

Explore the evolving role of Chambers of Commerce in the digital age with David Vander Bloomen, CEO of the De Pere Area Chamber of Commerce.  In this insightful episode of IT Unplugged, discover how local business organizations are leveraging technology to enhance member engagement, support small businesses, and drive community growth.  David shares innovative strategies for balancing high-tech so...

Dive into a comprehensive analysis of the recent CrowdStrike incident that caused widespread disruptions and billions in damages.  In this episode of IT Unplugged, hosts Brandon and Mike break down the technical aspects of what went wrong, explore why remote fixes were impossible, and discuss the broader implications for cybersecurity and software deployment strategies.  Learn about the importance...

Today on IT Unplugged, we're sharing game-changing insights for anyone navigating the complex world of nonprofit technology. I had the privilege of speaking with Abby, Executive Director of Jackie Nitschke Center, about how forward-thinking nonprofits are using IT to amplify their impact. Here's what you'll learn: ·       Innovative approaches to IT on a nonprofit budget ·       How...

Join us for an insightful episode of IT Unplugged as we sit down with Stephen, M2 Technology's newest IT consultant. With a passion for technology that started at age eight, Stephen shares his journey from fixing computers for snacks to becoming a seasoned IT professional. In this episode, we explore: Stephen's unique path into IT, starting with a garbage-picked Pentium 2 computer The ev...

Breaking In to Stay Secure: The Penetration Testing Deep Dive You Can't Miss Ever wondered how ethical hackers protect your business?  Our intern Alexander takes us on a journey from tech-curious kid to cybersecurity pro, revealing: Why your network is like your home (and how to lock it down) The #1 vulnerability you're probably overlooking How AI is making pen testing more accessible Et...

Buckle up, business owners! We're diving deep into the world of cyber liability insurance with Kelly from Paroubek Insurance .  In this episode, we unpack why cybersecurity isn't just for the big fish anymore and how your small business could be swimming in dangerous waters without proper protection. From the Target breach that shook the industry to the boom in cyber economy, we're...

In this enlightening episode of IT Unplugged, we sit down with Alexander, M2 Technology's 18-year-old intern with big dreams in the world of cybersecurity. Alexander's journey into IT is as unique as it is inspiring. We explore how his passion for real-time strategy games sparked an interest in computer programming, eventually leading him to pursue a career in penetration testing. But th...

In this eye-opening episode of IT Unplugged, we dive deep into the world of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on cybersecurity and IT. Discover how AI is revolutionizing business protection, with a special focus on SentinelOne's AI-powered endpoint protection. Key topics include: Real-world applications of AI in daily life and business The learning process of AI models and the importance...

Dive into the world of effective IT budgeting and planning in this essential episode of IT Unplugged. We break down the key components of an IT budget, including cybersecurity, hardware, software, internet, and email services.  Learn the importance of asset tracking and strategic hardware replacement schedules for computers, routers, and servers. Discover how to balance timely upgrades with cost-s...

Is your company ready to outsource its IT?  In this episode of IT Unplugged we break down the telltale signs that your business might benefit from external IT support, reveal the red flags to watch for when choosing a Managed Service Provider, and explore scenarios where keeping IT in-house could be the smarter move.  Whether you're a small business owner weighing your options or an IT profes...

Human Error: The Achilles' Heel of Cybersecurity - How Effective Training Can Save Your Business Did you know that 95% of data breaches stem from human error? In this eye-opening episode of IT Unplugged, we dive deep into the critical role of cybersecurity training in protecting your organization. Learn why traditional, boring computer modules fall short and discover engaging strategies that...

 Discover the truth behind the IT world's biggest misconceptions! In this eye-opening episode of IT Unplugged, we're busting the top 5 myths about IT professionals that have been circulating for far too long. Get ready to challenge your preconceptions and gain a fresh perspective on the diverse, dynamic individuals who power our digital world. We'll dive into: The social butterfly e...

In this episode of IT Unplugged, we dive into the world of IT jargon and break down complex technical terms into easy-to-understand explanations. Join us as we put Mike, our resident IT expert, in the hot seat for a rapid-fire round of questions covering a wide range of IT concepts. From "cloud computing" and "cybersecurity" to "machine learning" and "Internet of...

In this eye-opening episode, we tackle the all-too-common mindset of "It won't happen to me" when it comes to cybersecurity. Many business owners believe they're immune to cyber threats, but the harsh reality is that no one is safe in today's digital landscape.  Did you know that a staggering 70% of businesses will experience a cyberattack at some point?   The consequences...