MSP Unplugged
by Paco Lebron
MSP Unplugged is the weekly podcast for growing MSP owners running shops under $1M with 10 or fewer techs. Each week, our hosts sit down with MSP owners, operators, and the vendors who serve them for real, unfiltered conversations about what's actually working: growing revenue and landing better clients, cybersecurity, AI and automation, sales and marketing, and leading a team without burning out. Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get podcasts.
Episodes
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4th Quarter Living: Score the Year, Set Up the Next | MSP Unplugged
Before you plan 2027, score 2026. In the first chapter of our 4th Quarter Living series, Paco Lebron welcomes Rick Smith and Nancy Henriquez as co-hosts for the rest of 2026 and into 2027. Together they take inventory of the year: the wins, the plays they would not run again, how AI changed the…
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Cutting the Vendor Tax with OpenFrame | Michael Assraf, Flamingo
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, Paco Lebron talks with Michael Assraf, Founder and CEO of Flamingo, about tool sprawl, the vendor tax, and how an open-source foundation plus AI agents can change the economics for growing MSPs. Michael has spent 20 years in tech, mostly in startups. At his...
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From MSP to MIP: Pax8's Ryan Walsh on AI and Staying Relevant
🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Ryan Walsh, Channel Chief and Chief Strategy Officer at Pax8, to talk about where small MSPs actually go next. Ryan has spent years helping partners clean up messy stacks, scale through the marketplace, and rethink what "managed services"…
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Why Annual Security Training Fails — and How usecure Helps MSPs Fix Human Risk
🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nihil Morjaria, Chief Revenue Officer at usecure, to talk about human risk management — the biggest gap in most small MSP security stacks. usecure helps MSPs automate security awareness training, phishing simulations, dark web monitoring, and...
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AI Email Security for MSPs: How Cambrient Cuts "Is This Safe?" Tickets Without MX Changes
🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we talk with Cambrient AI about a different approach to email security: agentic AI that investigates every message instead of just scoring or filtering it. Cambrient was built for MSPs — multi-tenant, fast to deploy (no MX record changes), and designed to cut...
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Ryan McGill on Scaling MSP Operations & Turning Challenges into Growth
🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Ryan McGill to discuss his journey and practical strategies for running and scaling a successful managed services business. Ryan shares real-world insights on improving operations, streamlining delivery, and helping small MSP teams overcome...
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Business Outcome Conversations: The Next Phase of MSP Customer Penetration with Luis Giraldo
🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, Luis Giraldo, Chief Evangelist at ScalePad, shares his journey and powerful strategies for turning around struggling MSPs — with a special focus on QBRs (Quarterly Business Reviews) and why business outcome conversations are the next evolution in customer...
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MSP Revival Guide: Marketing Help, Leadership & Growth with Cynthia Schreiner (Pax8)
🎙️ In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, Cynthia Schreiner — Senior Manager of Channel Engagement at Pax8 — joins us to discuss her journey and proven strategies for reviving struggling MSPs. Drawing from her hands-on experience as a former MSP Business Administrator and her current role...
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From Struggling Business to Thriving MSP in Salt Lake City – Ed Lukacs of 2Fifteen Tech
🎙️ In this honest and inspiring episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Ed Lukacs, CEO of 2Fifteen Tech in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ed opens up about his real journey building and turning around a struggling managed service provider. From early challenges and tough pivots to creating a thriving...
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Stop Getting Breached: Matt Lee Shares MSP Cybersecurity Strategies for Under $3M Shops
🎙️ In this must-watch episode of MSP Unplugged, we welcome Matt Lee — Senior Director of Security and Compliance at Pax8, CISSP, CCSP, CFR, PNPT, and a leading voice in MSP cybersecurity. Matt has spent years raising the security bar for small and mid-sized MSPs. In this conversation, he breaks...
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Stop Alert Fatigue: Blumira's Approach to MSP Cybersecurity in 2026
🎙️ In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Greg Saenz from Blumira — a leading security operations platform built specifically for busy IT teams and MSPs. If you're running a small MSP (under $3M revenue and fewer than 20 employees), you know security is a massive opportunity — but…
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MSP Leadership Lessons from Nancy Henriquez – Head of Community at MSP Unplugged
🎙️ In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nancy Henriquez – two-time MSP founder, award-winning industry leader, business coach, author of "Break-Fix to Breakthrough," and the new Head of Community at MSP Unplugged. Nancy shares her battle-tested insights on moving from...
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The MSPaaS Revolution: Michael Amiri Reveals How MSPs Can Scale Smarter
Michael Amiri joins MSP Unplugged to break down the emerging model of MSP-as-a-Service (MSPaaS) — a game-changing approach that's helping MSPs scale faster, reduce operational overhead, and deliver better outcomes to clients. In this episode, Michael shares: What MSP-as-a-Service really means and...
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From Startup to MSP 501: Antwine Jackson on Scaling Enitech Solutions
Antwine Jackson, Founder & President of Enitech Solutions, joins MSP Unplugged to share his powerful journey from the early startup days to building a recognized, multi-office managed services provider in North Carolina. In this episode, Antwine opens up about: The real challenges of the first…
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How to Scale an MSP with Partners: Derrick Wlodarz (FireLogic) Returns
Derrick Wlodarz, Founder & President of FireLogic, returns to MSP Unplugged for a deep dive into long-term MSP growth and the power of strategic partnerships. In this returning guest episode, Derrick shares: What's changed at FireLogic since his last appearance How he's scaled the business over…
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Simplifying Cybersecurity for MSPs: Joe Sykora (CEO of Coro) on Tool Sprawl and AI in 2026
Joe Sykora, CEO of Coro Cybersecurity, joins MSP Unplugged to discuss how MSPs can simplify their security stack, reduce tool sprawl, and deliver better protection to small and mid-sized businesses. In this episode, Joe shares: Why traditional multi-tool cybersecurity approaches are failing most...
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From Corporate IT Director to MSP Owner: Ron Cervantes on Building C Solutions IT
Ron Cervantes, Founder and President of C Solutions IT in Orlando, Florida, joins MSP Unplugged to share his journey from corporate IT Director (managing IT for one of the largest transportation companies in the U.S.) to building and scaling a successful managed services provider. In this…
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Google Gold for MSPs: Nate Freedman on Reviews, Local SEO & Lead Generation in 2026
Nate Freedman of MSP Sites and TechPro Marketing joins MSP Unplugged to share battle-tested Google strategies that are actually generating leads for MSPs right now. In this episode, we break down how to turn Google into a predictable client acquisition engine — from turning Google Reviews into…
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From Chicago to Peoria: Pierre Anyansi on Proactive IT, Security & Building a Local MSP
Pierre Anyansi of Any IT Support sits down with us to talk about his journey from network security engineering to founding a boutique IT company focused on proactive support, secure remote solutions, and helping small businesses grow through technology. We explore the "farming technology"...
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Rick Smith Unplugged: Pivots, Hard Calls & the 2026 MSP Game Plan
Co-host Rick Smith drops in for a reflective deep dive: Recent pivots that reshaped his MSP (and why some changes hurt before they helped), key lessons from the past year, and his no-BS predictions/advice for MSPs finishing Q1 strong and crushing the back half of 2026. If you're debating a big...
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Should Your MSP Start a Podcast The Storytelling Advantage
Podcasting is not about being famous. It is about being relevant. In this episode, Jose Torres of Dimelo Media and I talk about how storytelling helps MSPs build trust, create community, and stay top of mind. If you have ever wondered whether your MSP should start a podcast or how to do it the...
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Secure Your Own House First: Degly Mendez on MSP Cyber Education
In this insightful episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron welcomes Degly Mendez, CEO of Avanzar IT Systems (South Pasadena, CA) and Vice Chair of the GTIA ISAO Advisory Group. Degly shares his journey into MSP leadership, his focus on cybersecurity for small/mid-sized businesses, and…
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MSP Leadership Strifes: Marcial Velez on Culture, Burnout & Growth
In this powerful episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron welcomes back Marcial Velez, Founder & CEO of Xperteks—a nationally recognized NYC-based MSP honored on CRN's MSP 500 list multiple years running. Marcial opens up about the real "strifes" of leadership: Building and evolving Xperteks…
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Making IT Boring: Boutique MSP Lessons w/ Sean Inman of Inman Technology Solutions
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron sits down with Sean Inman, CISSP, Founder & CEO of Inman Technologies in Fort Worth, TX. Sean shares his journey from enterprise information security to launching his own MSP in 2018, driven by frustrations with corporate IT and a passion for...
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Classic Replay: The LinkedIn Advantage – Unlock MSP Leads with LinkedIn
Flashback Tuesday: Fan-Favorite Edition! Kicking off the week with one of our all-time most requested episodes — the LinkedIn masterclass that MSP owners and pros keep circling back to for serious business wins. In this evergreen episode of MSP Unplugged, we revisit our powerhouse conversation…
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Sell a Copier! with Chris Cool
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, host Paco Lebron sits down with Chris Cool, Founder and CEO of Cool Technology Group Inc., a Houston/Texas-based managed IT services provider specializing in cybersecurity, cloud solutions, remote/on-site support, and more for small to medium businesses. Chris...
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Back in the Studio: MSP Updates, Big Changes & Lessons Learned
Paco's back in the studio after a packed stretch — welcome to the first episode of MSP Unplugged's return! Catch up on the latest: Quick tips & tricks: Affordable branded backups with Aaron's Auto Glass Fabs (just $66!), seamless data migration via SQLBackupAndFTP, and troubleshooting ControlOne...
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New Year Catch-Up: Jeff Halash Returns After 4 Years!
Join us live right before we ring the new year as we reconnect with Jeff Halash, former host of the Computer Repair Podcast and MSP Unplugged. After four years away, Jeff shares what he's been up to, his thoughts on the MSP industry today, and insights from his journey. Don't miss this nostalgic...
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UniFi Ubiquiti: One Year Later – Lessons Learned & Pro Tips
In this Christmas Eve Edition, We discuss our Network Upgrade Insights at ProdigyTeks! Join us as our very own John Dubinsky joins the podcast to discuss our journey from our previous network provider to UniFi network equipment. We'll cover practical tips, smart tricks, and key lessons learned...
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Larry Meador and Cavelo: Elevating MSP Channel Success with Cybersecurity Innovation
Discover how industry veteran Larry Meador, Cavelo's new Channel Chief, is transforming the MSP channel. Cavelo empowers Managed Service Providers with a unified Attack Surface Management and Data Security Posture Management platform—offering automated data discovery, classification…
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Justin Gilliam's Journey Into the MSP World | Bacheler Technologies Story
Justin Gilliam of Bacheler Technologies shares his journey into the MSP space. From early challenges to building a thriving business. Tune in to hear how he carved his path and what's next for his MSP adventure. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/j9LGAnUc5UU...
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How XCtium Climbed to #9 on MSP 501: Russ Reeder's Vision for the Future
📍"XTIUM's CEO Russ Reeder shares his vision for scaling the company both organically and through strategic mergers and acquisitions. Discover how AI is shaping their future and the journey that propelled them to rank #9 on the prestigious MSP 501 list. Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando....
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Xperteks Big Reveal: Marcial Velez Drops New Innovations at MSP Summit
Marcial Velez from Xperteks shares inspiring stories and unveils innovative solution live from the MSP Summit. 📍 Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. 🔗 Learn more about the summit: MSP Summit 2025 Overview: https://themspsummit.com/ Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/kR2sn_A3hIg...
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Inside the MSP Summit: Kelly Danziger on Informa's Vision for the Channel & MSP Summit
In this exclusive interview, Kelly Danziger—General Manager and VP of Channel at Informa Tech—shares her journey into the tech space and the strategic direction Informa is taking to elevate the Channel Partners Expo and MSP Summit. 🎙️ Topics Covered: Kelly's path to leadership in the channel…
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EP 281 Securing the Stack with Todyl
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, we catch up with Ken Patterson from Todyl, recorded on-site at PAX8 Beyond. Ken shares how Todyl is helping MSPs simplify and strengthen their security stack through an all-in-one platform approach—empowering providers to deliver enterprise-grade protection...
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EP 284 Get Your Stuff Together with Better Tracker
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Kevin Lancaster from Channel Program to explore a game-changing new tool designed to streamline operations for MSPs — Better Tracker. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by vendor chaos, missed follow-ups, or scattered data, this episode is your...
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EP 283 Summer Recap & What's Next for MSP Unplugged
We're back in the studio! After a summer packed with live recordings, travel, and behind-the-scenes hustle, we're kicking things off with a full recap episode. In this laid-back session, we catch you up on everything we've been working on—both personally and professionally. From summer takeaways…
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EP 282 Putting MSPs First – GTIA's New Era
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Dan Wensley, CEO of GTIA, to unpack the powerful transformation of the Global Technology Industry Association. Dan shares how GTIA is shifting from certification-focused roots to becoming a purpose-built, community-first nonprofit dedicated to...
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EP 280 Legacy in Action – The Kenyatta Computers Story
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Nahjee Maybin, CEO of Kenyatta Computer Services, a Denver-based MSP. Nahjee shares how he's building on the legacy his father began—transforming Kenyatta Computers from a family vision into a thriving IT services company. It's a powerful story…
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EP 279 Navigating Information with OpenText
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we're joined by Mike DePalma, VP of Business Development at OpenText. OpenText is a global leader in information management software, helping organizations—especially MSPs—securely capture, store, manage, and unlock actionable insights from enterprise data. Mike...
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EP 278 Live from Pax8 Beyond with Rob Rae
What would a visit to Pax8 Beyond be without a conversation with the legendary Rob Rae? In this episode, Rob joins us to discuss the latest developments at Pax8 and trends shaping the IT services industry. We also dive into why this is the final Pax8 Beyond event in Denver. Full Video Podcast…
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EP 277 Elevating MSPs with 5G: The Rythmz Advantage
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, recorded at PAX8 Beyond, we sit down with Leonard Dimiceli, VP of Channel at Rythmz. Rythmz is opening up new opportunities for MSPs in the 5G space, helping providers deliver enhanced connectivity and better customer experiences in challenging environments....
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EP 276 Checking in with Checkpoint – Live from PAX8 Beyond
In this on-site episode of MSP Unplugged, we're live from PAX8 Beyond with special guest Dave Meister, Global Channel Leader at Check Point Software Technologies. We sit down with Dave to talk about the evolving cybersecurity landscape, how Check Point is enabling MSPs to stay ahead of modern...
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EP 275 Live from TechCon Unplugged – Chicago Road Show!
In this special live episode of MSP Unplugged, recorded at the TechCon Unplugged Road Show in Chicago, we shift the focus from problems to solutions. Following our March session in New Jersey where we asked, "What keeps you up at night?", this time we're talking about what we're doing to sleep at...
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EP 274 Here Comes MSPOGs
Live from Pax8 Beyond 25 in Denver, CO! In this special on-the-road episode, Rick Smith and Corey Kirkendoll sit down with Juan Fernandez and Paco Lebron to talk about their bold new venture: MSPOgs — a platform built by MSPs for MSPs. We unpack the origin story of MSPOgs, why the MSP community...
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EP 273 What's in your Tool Bag? Choosing the Right Stack for Your MSP
In this week's episode of MSP Unplugged, we open up the digital tool bag—not to list brands or promote platforms, but to talk strategy. Whether you're building your MSP from scratch or re-evaluating your tech stack, this conversation is about making smarter, more sustainable choices. We dive into...
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EP 272 Vendor Loyalty: Embracing Innovation and Excellence with Our New Partner
Breaking up with a vendor is only the beginning. In this week's MSP Unplugged, we take you behind the scenes of what happens next. We share how we prepared, planned, and executed the transition to a new vendor—without disrupting service or compromising client trust. We won't name names, but we…
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EP 271 Microsoft 365 Essentials for MSPs: Tools, Tips, and Best Practices
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we break down how we use Microsoft 365 to run a lean, secure, and efficient MSP. From managing clients and automating workflows to enhancing security and collaboration, we share our favorite tools, real-world tips, and proven best practices. Whether you're just...
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EP 270 Vendor Break-ups: When Staying Costs More Than Leaving
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we dive into a topic every MSP faces eventually: when it's time to part ways with a vendor. Whether it's poor support, broken promises, rising costs, or lack of innovation, sticking with the wrong vendor can hold your business back. We discuss the warning signs...
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The LinkedIn Advantage: Boosting Your MSP Presence
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we're joined by Richard Bliss, founder of BlissPoint Consulting and a recognized expert in LinkedIn branding and social selling. Richard shares powerful, actionable strategies for leveraging LinkedIn as a business development tool—not just a resume repository. We...
About this show
MSP Unplugged is the weekly podcast for growing MSP owners running shops under $1M with 10 or fewer techs. Each week, our hosts sit down with MSP owners, operators, and the vendors who serve them for real, unfiltered conversations about what's actually working: growing revenue and landing better clients, cybersecurity, AI and automation, sales and marketing, and leading a team without burning out. Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get podcasts.
Hosted by
Paco Lebron
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