MSP Business School

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287

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Aug 2026

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About the show

A podcast geared to Technology Service Providers where we bring you strategies and tactics to grow your business and build a winning culture. This podcast helps MSPs and MSSPs accelerate their business through strategies, tips, and tactics for driving sales, marketing, and account management. Join our host, Brian Doyle, every Tuesday!

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August 18, 2026Episode 28321 min

Finian Nally | What the Fastest-Growing MSPs Do Differently

Join host Brian Doyle in the latest episode of MSP Business School as he delves into the evolving landscape of managed services with Finian Nally, the Director of Strategy at Sherweb for the UK and Ireland. As many MSP professionals find their initiation into the field starts with unexpected opportunities, Finian shares his unique career journey from technical support to strategic leadership, providing invaluable insights into the world of distribution and strategy formulation at Sherweb. This episode unravels the intricacies faced by MSPs as they grapple with evolving market demands. With a focus on sales enablement and strategic partnerships, Finian highlights Sherweb's role in empowering MSPs to redefine their customer strategies and deliver outcome-based solutions. The discussion also explores the pressing need for MSPs to adopt AI by first implementing it internally, thus equipping them to better guide their clients through the AI revolution. The conversation scratches the surface of the challenges and opportunities that MSPs face today, providing a look into how Sherweb supports them in overcoming these hurdles. Key Takeaways: Growth Enablement Through Distribution: Sherweb positions itself as a growth enabler, helping MSPs build profitable business models through expert guidance in technical training and sales strategy. Outcome-Based Selling: To succeed in today's market, MSPs must pivot from traditional sales tactics to outcome-driven conversations that resonate with customer business objectives. Internal AI Adoption: MSPs should first deploy AI solutions internally to build confidence and expertise, which is critical before extending these services to their clients. Holistic Strategic Support: Sherweb's framework-based approach facilitates a comprehensive MSP development process, from cyber resilience to AI practice enhancements. Expect More from Distributors: Finian emphasizes that MSPs should "expect better" from their distributor relationships, seeking genuinely beneficial partnerships that transcend transactional interactions. Guest Name: Finian Nally LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fnally/ Company: Sherweb Company Website: https://www.sherweb.com/?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=LinkedIn&utm_content=CustomButton Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

August 11, 2026Episode 28227 min

Josh Kotler | The Private Equity Secret that Reshaping the MSP Industry

In this engaging episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle reunites with Josh Kotler, a veteran in the MSP industry, to explore the evolving dynamics of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and the role of private equity. Josh, who has been instrumental in scaling MSP businesses, shares his journey from building and selling a successful MSP to his current endeavor with Axial Reed Capital. This episode is a rich resource for MSP owners interested in understanding market trends and making informed decisions on potential exits. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities present in the MSP landscape, underlining the influence of private equity and emphasizing the strategic value of organic sales growth. Josh shares his insights on why many MSP owners should contemplate selling, given the industry's rapid changes and the influx of private equity. He highlights the importance of aligning with reliable partners and discusses the benefits of being part of a larger scaling platform, all while providing practical advice for those considering stepping into the world of M&A. Key Takeaways: Private equity has significantly boosted valuations in the MSP industry, offering lucrative opportunities for business owners. MSP owners in their 50s and 60s should evaluate their ability to adapt to industry changes and consider selling as a strategic move. Growing an MSP through mergers and acquisitions can be a faster approach to scaling than organic growth, with essential roles emerging in larger scaling platforms. Despite competition weighing heavily on smaller MSPs, aligning with private equity-backed brands can reduce risks and increase enterprise value. The evolving landscape, marked by technological advancements like AI, will separate proactive and innovative MSPs from those unable to adapt. Guest Name: Josh Kotler LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkotler/ Company: Canyon Point Technologies Company Website: https://canyonpoint.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

August 5, 2026Episode 28124 min

Josh Smith | Stop Selling and Start Educating Your Prospects

In this episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle engages with Josh Smith from Wingman MSP Marketing to explore the dynamic landscape of marketing for MSPs. Josh shares his unique journey from accounting to marketing and the insights he brings to the MSP sector. With discussions ranging from effective marketing strategies to the evolving role of AI in business, the episode offers a wealth of practical advice for MSPs looking to optimize their marketing efforts and embrace new technologies. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities in MSP marketing, emphasizing the value of niche targeting and personal engagement. Josh discusses how Wingman helps MSPs navigate these waters, moving beyond traditional lead generation to include comprehensive marketing services like event planning and SEO adaptations to AI advancements. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding your client's pain points and leveraging events, such as educational AI seminars, to create meaningful connections and establish trust in the market. Key Takeaways: Strategic Niching: Identifying and focusing on a specific industry or vertical can significantly enhance marketing effectiveness and client acquisition for MSPs. AI as a Catalyst: Hosting educational events on AI can attract prospects by addressing common business challenges and demonstrating expertise in emerging technologies. Comprehensive Marketing: A full-service marketing approach, including SEO, event planning, and lead generation, is essential to meet the diverse needs of MSPs today. Personality Over Skills: In sales and customer service, hiring for personality is often more successful than focusing solely on technical skills. Adaptation to Change: Both marketing agencies and MSPs must continually pivot and adapt to technological and market shifts, such as the current rise of AI. Guest Name: Josh Smith LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-smith-b181b6184/ Company: Wingman MSP Marketing Company Website: https://wingmanmspmarketing.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

July 21, 2026Episode 27827 min

Paul Knittle | Why Community Wins Every Time in the MSP Industry

In this engaging episode of the MSP Business School podcast, host Brian Doyle welcomes Paul Knittle, CEO of MTMG Inc., to discuss leveraging community building and niche events to invigorate MSP marketing strategies. Paul steps in as a guest at a pivotal moment, highlighting the essence of community responsiveness, a core theme threaded throughout their discussion. As the dialogue unravels, Paul shares insights into his journey from operations director to MSP specialist, with a unique focus on mobile device management—a realm often avoided by traditional MSPs. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on embracing technological evolution and reevaluating conventional MSP roles in the wake of cybersecurity and AI advancements. Delving deeper, Paul unveils MTMG's unique event-driven strategies poised to revolutionize customer engagement for MSPs and tech startups. He underlines the transformative power of personal connections in an industry drowning in digital noise. Paul's strategic shift from mobile-centric solutions to holistic community-driven models underscores his belief that true connection fosters growth and opportunity. This episode is a well of knowledge for tech leaders keen on distinguishing themselves through innovative approaches and authentic engagement. Key Takeaways: Building community is crucial for MSPs to distinguish themselves amid a sea of sameness and growing digital noise. Personal connections and strategic networking can amplify an MSP's reach and trustworthiness in their industry. Engaging in niche events and podcasts can present authentic platforms for MSPs to showcase their expertise and differentiate their offerings. Cybersecurity and AI are emerging as vital areas where MSPs must evolve and lead to meet the ever-changing demands of tech-savvy customers. Partnering with trusted resources can bolster an MSP's service offerings, allowing them to manage modern technological challenges effectively. Guest Name: Paul Knittle LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulknittle/ Company: MTMG Inc. Website: https://mtmginc.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

July 15, 2026Episode 27716 min

Fireside Chat | Mastering the Art of Momentum: Transforming MSP Client Engagement

Join Brian Doyle on this engaging episode of MSP Business School as he delves into the dynamic world of MSPs and the crucial role of technology business reviews. With his vast experience in the industry, Brian emphasizes the need for continuous client engagement beyond traditional QBRs. In a rapidly evolving landscape dominated by AI and technological innovation, Brian advocates for a more holistic approach to client relationships. His strategic insights explore how MSPs can build quarterly momentum by implementing continuous touchpoints, utilizing customer portals, and significantly enhancing client communication. In this episode, Brian Doyle dissects the essential strategies for MSPs to foster lasting client relationships. Emphasizing strategic communication, he guides listeners on transforming quarterly business reviews into constant checkpoints, ensuring the stability and improvement of client relationships. Keywords such as "technology business review," "strategic communications," and "managed service providers" underscore the importance of evolving client engagement strategies. Brian offers a step-by-step framework, detailing five core methods for maintaining ongoing client momentum, fostering transparency, and leveraging modern technology to drive business growth. Key Takeaways: Revolutionizing QBRs: Transform quarterly business reviews from mere meetings into continuous, strategic checkpoints for better client engagement. Modern Touchpoints: Utilize monthly touchpoints, customer portals, and strategic emails to maintain dynamic client relationships and ensure consistent progress. Risk Management: Integrate risk updates into client communication to transparently address potential threats and their impact on business operations. Strategic Insights: Ensure that every interaction with clients is rooted in their specific business goals, enhancing the perceived value of MSP services. Celebrate Milestones: Highlight and communicate project milestones to engage clients in a meaningful way and enhance business trust. Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

July 7, 2026Episode 27629 min

Brian Strong | Building a Sales Engine That Scales Your MSP

In this enlightening episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle chats with Brian Strong, CEO of TenHats, about sustainable and organic business growth strategies for MSPs. They discuss how Brian's sales expertise catapulted TenHats from a modest standing to over $19 million in business revenue, all without relying on mergers and acquisitions. Brian Strong shares his journey from an outside sales representative to a CEO, emphasizing the importance of building genuine relationships and applying effective sales methodologies rooted in understanding human behavior. Brian Strong delves into the concept of Centers of Influence (COIs) and the significance of targeting the right customers to drive business growth. By nurturing these relationships, avoiding cold calls, and employing intelligent prospecting techniques, Brian has led TenHats to considerable advances in monthly recurring revenue. This episode shatters common myths about building a scalable sales organization within the MSP landscape. Listeners will gain insights into Brian's successful practices and methodologies, which are set to be detailed in his upcoming book, promising a practical roadmap for MSPs aspiring to exceed the $10 million annual revenue mark. Key Takeaways: Center of Influence Strategy: Building relationships with people who know your potential customers can be a powerful tool in strategic sales prospecting for MSPs. Targeted Customer Profiles: Defining and aiming for customers above your current average revenue is crucial to sustainable company growth. Sales Process Management: A robust sales process, aligned with human psychology, is essential, especially when transitioning from owner-led to sales team-led negotiations. Impact of Organic Growth: Companies demonstrating organic growth processes tend to command higher valuations in the market compared to those reliant on acquisitions. Quality of Life through Scale: Achieving scalability beyond $10 million in revenue affords MSP owners and employees better life quality and company culture, reducing burnout and enhancing business resilience. Guest Name: Brian Strong LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-strong/ Company: TenHats Website: https://tenhats.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

June 23, 2026Episode 27522 min

Frank Raimondi | Continuous Vulnerability Management in the Age of AI

Join Brian Doyle in an engaging episode of MSP Business School as he welcomes Frank Raimondi from Nodeware, a frequent guest and expert in cybersecurity and MSP strategies. This discussion veers from the typical focus on specific technologies, diving into the transformative impact of AI on security and technology advancements. Frank shares insights from his extensive background in vulnerability management, discussing how AI affects the landscape of cybersecurity and the role of MSPs in navigating these changes. In this episode, Doyle and Raimondi explore how AI is reshaping industries and the increasing need for security vigilance. With the rapid emergence of AI tools, businesses face new vulnerabilities that MSPs must manage effectively. Raimondi emphasizes the importance of continuous vulnerability management, highlighting how tools like Nodeware play a crucial role in protecting company assets. They also discuss how AI is enabling faster detection of vulnerabilities and the necessity for MSPs to guide organizations in crafting AI policies to safeguard their data and operations. Key Takeaways: AI's Impact on Cybersecurity : AI is revolutionizing the speed at which vulnerabilities can be detected, posing both opportunities and challenges for managing security. Continuous Vulnerability Management : The need for ongoing vulnerability assessment is crucial in the fast-paced tech landscape, as highlighted by Nodeware's offerings. Role of MSPs : Managed Service Providers are evolving into Managed Information Providers, crucial in educating clients about AI's implications and establishing protective measures. AI Policies and Compliance : The development of AI policies is essential for organizations to safeguard their data and operational integrity. Navigating Technology Advancements : MSPs should position themselves as trusted advisors, providing insightful guidance on adopting and managing technological innovations. Guest Name: Frank Raimondi LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankraimondi/ Company: Nodeware Website: https://nodeware.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

June 16, 2026Episode 27425 min

Johnathan Skofi | The Art of Purpose-Driven Leadership

Join Brian Doyle as he hosts Johnathan Schofield, aka Skofi, in an engaging episode of MSP Business School. Jonathan, a celebrated community connector, shares insights into his journey into the IT service world and talks about the art of sales in the industry. He touches on his accidental foray into IT services, stressing the importance of community in propelling his career forward. The conversation unfolds with a deep dive into the impact of AI on the IT services industry. Johnathan and Brian discuss the real and perceived roles of AI, examining both the opportunities and misconceptions surrounding its implementation within small to medium-sized service providers. They delve into the crucial importance of understanding a buyer's current and future needs, and how AI can bridge this gap in a meaningful way. This episode is rich with strategies on leveraging AI without losing sight of core sales principles—a must-listen for aspiring MSPs and IT vendors. Key Takeaways: Community Focus: Johnathan emphasizes the role of community in growing and sustaining a successful business in the IT services field. AI's Role in Sales: While AI offers extraordinary capabilities, it's crucial to first understand and communicate the needs and future visions of customers. Sales Fundamentals: Despite technological advancements, the core principles of sales—understanding and tailoring to customer needs—remain unchanged. AI Readiness: MSPs should evaluate their clients' current usage of AI and establish governance and security measures to avoid data risks. Channel Collab Initiative: Johnathan's Channel Collab promotes local networking, learning, and sharing among MSPs and vendors, emphasizing growth through relationships. Guest Name: Johnathan Skofi LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnathan-schofield/ Company: Skofi - findmyitpartner.com Website: https://findmyitpartner.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

June 9, 2026Episode 27324 min

John Harden | Turning MSPs into Managed Intelligence Providers with AI

In this episode of MSP Business School, host Brian Doyle engages in a dynamic discussion with John Harden, a pioneer in the AI realm within the MSP industry. With an impressive 17-year tenure in the sector, John Harden brings an expert perspective on the rapid evolution of AI technology. As MSPs grapple with AI's practical applications and benefits, Harden provides insights into achieving scalability, responsibility, and repeatability with AI solutions. John also shares his experience of launching Lemhi, a new venture focused on guiding MSPs to effectively harness AI for service improvements and operational excellence. John Harden and Brian Doyle highlight how AI is transforming the landscape for MSPs. Through engaging dialogue, they discuss tooling, responsible deployment, and strategic implementation of AI to boost client relations and service offerings. They emphasize the importance of establishing a repeatable sales motion and developing a robust, manageable AI framework. Harden's Lemhi is positioned to directly address this by providing the necessary resources and expertise to integrate AI into MSP operations effectively, focusing on incremental value creation across all levels of client relationships. Key Takeaways: AI Strategy and Deployment: Successful AI integration requires repeatable, responsible, and scalable strategies, as articulated by John Harden based on his extensive research and experience. MSP Transformation: MSPs have an unprecedented opportunity to evolve into Managed Intelligence Providers, offering AI-driven solutions that enhance service offerings and deepen client engagement. Project vs. Ongoing Engagement: Rather than viewing AI implementations as one-off projects, MSPs can achieve greater value by adopting a continuous, relationship-focused approach that caters to individual job roles within client organizations. Lemhi's Offering: The launch of Lemhi aims to help MSPs initiate a repeatable sales motion around AI, supporting them with tools and frameworks for effective AI rollout and management. Open Engagement Opportunities: John emphasizes building in collaboration with design partners and actively encourages MSPs to engage with Lemhi for better alignment and co-development. Guest Name: John Harden LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-harden/ Company: Lemhi Website: https://www.lemhi.com/ Show Website : https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

June 4, 2026Episode 27226 min

Fireside Chat | The MSP's Guide to Becoming an AI Strategic Partner

Join Brian Doyle in this insightful episode of MSP Business School as he delves into the burgeoning role of AI in Managed Service Providers (MSPs). This episode offers a deep dive into how MSPs can navigate the dynamic landscape of AI to enhance their service offerings and foster substantial client relationships. Brian leverages his wealth of experience to outline strategic approaches to integrating AI into business conversations, underscoring the shift from traditional IT services to a more holistic AI-driven advisory role. Throughout the episode, Brian outlines the significant impact of AI readiness assessments and governance strategies. He emphasizes the crucial need for MSPs to incorporate AI into their strategic frameworks, noting significant financial opportunities and the potential to transition from commodity services to strategic partners. The discussion spans various critical aspects, including data readiness, infrastructure, security concerns, and the cultural and executive buy-in necessary for a successful AI adoption framework. The episode paints a vivid picture of AI as a transformative force, capable of driving efficiency, ROI, and innovation, while also highlighting the necessity of ongoing governance and adaptation to evolving AI models. Key Takeaways: AI Opportunities for MSPs : AI projects offer considerable financial opportunities, with projects averaging between $3,000 and $15,000 and up to $30,000 in recurring revenue through governance services. Importance of Readiness Assessments : Conducting comprehensive readiness assessments involving data, infrastructure, security, and cultural dynamics is critical for successful AI integration. Need for Strategic AI Governance : Long-term AI success is tied to robust governance frameworks due to continual model evolution and security risks. Cultural and Executive Buy-In : Establishing executive and cultural buy-in within client organizations is essential for AI adoption and maximizing its potential. Avoiding Scope Creep and Complexity : MSPs must maintain a clear strategy, limit options for clients, and focus on clear business outcomes to avoid project complexity and provide tangible client value.