732 ASCII Meets Apple (and a DeLorean)

Uncle Marv kicks off the episode with Joe Balsarotti, a long-time ASCII member and owner of Software to Go, a computer store with over 40 years of history. Joe shares his journey from retail software sales to becoming a full-service IT provider serving customers in 42 states. He emphasizes the importance of empowering staff, sharing how he gives his employees credit cards and encourages them to think like owners. Joe recounts a heartwarming story about hiring his office manager from a McDonald's drive-thru and how she's grown to handle basic tech support for clients. He also discusses the evolution of his business model and the value of ASCII membership over the years, highlighting the importance of relationship-building and networking at events. The episode then shifts to an interview with Terry McAdams of Mac Tech Solutions, representing ASMC (Apple Solutions Marketing Corporation). Terry explains the recent partnership between ASCII and ASMC, aimed at bridging the gap between PC-focused MSPs and Apple-centric businesses. He shares his background in both Windows and Mac environments, debunking misconceptions about the limitations of Macs in business settings. Terry discusses the opportunities for collaboration between ASCII and ASMC members, including hardware sales, co-managed services, and knowledge sharing. He also touches on the challenges of transitioning to managed services and the overwhelming array of tools available in the industry. Both interviews provide valuable perspectives on adapting to industry changes, the importance of customer relationships, and the potential for growth through strategic partnerships. Key Segments: Joe Balsarotti's 40+ years in the IT industryEvolution of Software to Go's business modelEmpowering employees in IT businessesLong-term value of ASCII membershipASCII and ASMC partnershipTerry McAdams' journey from Air Force to Mac Tech SolutionsMisconceptions about Macs in business environmentsOpportunities for collaboration between PC and Mac-focused MSPsChallenges in transitioning to managed servicesThe overwhelming landscape of IT tools and servicesPeople Mentioned for Shout Outs: Jeffrey BoydBradley Gross === Connect with Uncle Marv🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/🎙 Host: Marvin Bee🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcastIf you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.