The IT Naturally Podcast

AI is everywhere, but it hasn’t replaced what really makes businesses stand out. In this B Corp month episode, Julie Bishop is joined by fellow B Corp Leader Dave Hoch, CEO of Colibrily Crew, to explore why authenticity, transparency, and human connection are more important than ever in marketing. From building a B Corp to navigating the rise of AI, Dave shares how purpose-driven businesses can grow without losing what makes them different. They discuss: Why AI should be a tool, not a substitute for your voice How B Corp thinking shapes better businesses (not just better marketing) Why authenticity is becoming a competitive advantage The role of transparency in building trust How to tell stories that connect with people If you’re trying to grow your business without sounding like everyone else, this episode is for you. Connect with Dave Hoch on LinkedIn.Connect with Julie on LinkedIn  Follow The Colibrily Crew on LinkedIn The Colibrily Crew websiteVisit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

In this International Women’s Day special, Julie Bishop speaks with Sarah Flambard, founder of the charity We Are Here, about how technology can help people find support before they reach crisis. Sarah and her volunteer team are developing a simple but powerful digital tool - an offline-accessible map designed to help people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, quickly locate nearby support services without needing mobile data, an account, or personal information. Their mission is simple but transformative: turn visibility into prevention because in many cases, support already exists but people just can’t find it early enough. This conversation also reflects this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain.” Sarah and the entire We Are Here team are volunteers, bringing together expertise from law, data, technology and marketing to create something that can genuinely change outcomes for people facing homelessness. Julie and Sarah discuss: Why homelessness is often invisible until it becomes a crisis How simple, accessible technology can help people find support sooner Designing digital tools that work in stressful, low-connectivity situations How volunteer-powered innovation can create real social impact Why prevention is often more powerful than building new services A powerful conversation about technology, compassion and the impact of people coming together to create change. If you’d like to support the work of We Are Here, you can contact Sarah on LinkedIn or by email [email protected] You can also connect with Julie, Host & CEO IT Naturally on LinkedIn. Visit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

E-waste is now the fastest-growing waste stream in the world, and most organisations don’t realise the role their IT decisions play in driving it. In Episode 10 of the IT Naturally Podcast, Julie is joined by Mark Russell from ICEX Group to explore why reuse, not recycling, is the most powerful decision organisations can make when it comes to end-of-life IT. They discuss: Why manufacturing creates the biggest carbon footprint in IT The real difference between reuse and recycling Common data security fears and how to handle them properly Why “computer graveyards” create unnecessary risk How responsible IT disposal supports the circular economy and affordable technology What CEOs, CFOs and IT leaders should be planning for now A practical, insight-led conversation for organisations that want IT to be secure, sustainable, and genuinely used for good. Connect with Mark on LInkedInConnect with Julie on LinkedInCheck out the ICEX websiteVisit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

How the MSP landscape is shifting and why not every provider will survive the changes ahead that’s the conversation in this episode of the IT Naturally Podcast. Host Julie Bishop is joined by Will Garside, Editorial Director at IT Europa, seasoned technology journalist, broadcaster and author, with over 30 years covering the IT channel.Drawing on decades of industry insight, Will shares a candid view of: How the MSP model has evolved from project-based IT to true managed servicesWhy many “MSPs” are still VARs in disguise and why that mattersThe growing reality of cybercrime as an industrialised, state-level threatWhy minimum security standards are no longer optional for customers or providersHow technology has quietly transformed family life, work, and gender rolesThe uncomfortable truth about sustainable IT and why it does cost moneyWhy younger generations expect purpose, not just profit, from tech businessesHow values-led organisations see stronger loyalty, retention and long-term successWill also reflects on some of the most memorable moments of his career, from surreal dot-com era press trips to meaningful conversations with industry leaders and shares his one-word verdict on the IT channel today.If you’re an MSP, IT leader, or purpose-led business thinking about security, sustainability and the future of managed services, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.👉 Follow IT Europa on LinkedIn to keep up with Will’s reporting and insightsVisit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

Looking for ways to cut IT costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and build a more sustainable tech stack—without compromising performance? This episode is for you.Julie sits down with Ben Schneider, Founder of IT Guys, to reveal the real opportunities organisations are missing when it comes to greener IT. From remanufactured laptops that perform like new, to smarter device lifecycles and responsible supply chains, Ben explains how sustainable tech can be cheaper, more reliable, and far better for the planet.They dive into:How remanufactured devices save money and carbonThe truth behind refurbished vs remanufactured techWhy most businesses are over-spec’ing laptops unnecessarilyWhat every IT leader should ask their suppliersHow B Corps balance purpose with profitAnd why giving employees more time can transform cultureIf you’re an IT leader, sustainability champion, or purpose-led organisation, you’ll walk away with practical ideas you can implement today.Chapters00:00 – Introduction01:00 – Ben’s journey into tech & sustainability07:00 – Why time is the most valuable employee benefit08:27 – The real carbon footprint of laptops12:00 – Refurbished vs remanufactured — what’s the difference?15:20 – Why execs don’t need “fancy” laptops17:40 – The biggest barrier to circular IT20:00 – Giving charities the right kind of support24:00 – Quickfire round: favourite tech, biggest myth29:38 – Ben’s cringe IT storyVisit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

What happens when a company famous for its organic veg boxes applies the same sustainable mindset to IT?In this episode, Julie Bishop sits down with David Eagle, Head of IT at Riverford Organic Farmers, to explore how the business lives its values through technology, not just farming.Riverford is an employee-owned, B Corp-certified business that’s leading the way in ethical and sustainable operations. Behind the scenes, their IT team plays a huge part in reducing carbon, supporting co-owners, and making greener tech decisions every day.David shares how Riverford:🌱 Balances sustainability with performance — from eco-cooling systems to solar-powered operations.💻 Moved from refurbished to new laptops and actually reduced their long-term footprint.👩‍💻 Supports employee-owners with “10% learning time”, profit-sharing, and a culture of curiosity.⚙️ Partners with ethical tech suppliers and takes a stand when values matter more than cost.🌍 Faces challenges with big tech while still striving to make responsible choices.It’s an inspiring conversation about how IT can help people and the planet without compromising performance or business resilience.🎧 Listen in for practical insights on:Making sustainable IT choices that actually workAligning technology with company valuesEmpowering your people through ownership and learningBuilding long-term partnerships based on trust, not just priceWhether you’re a CIO, IT leader, or purpose-driven business owner, this episode will give you ideas on how to make your own IT setup more sustainable and why small decisions can make a big difference.Listen now and discover how Riverford is redefining what “IT for good” really means.Connect with Julie on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedInVisit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

“Green IT” used to mean switching off screensavers or recycling old laptops. But times have changed. In this episode of the IT Naturally Podcast, Julie Bishop speaks to Phil Wharton- Interim Technology Leader, Board Adviser and Independent Consultant who has held senior roles at Google, Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, PA Consulting, Novo Nordisk and the Eden Project. Phil explains why Green IT has grown up, moving from simple gestures to a board-level responsibility rooted in data, duty, and doing the right thing. Together they discuss: Why “sustainability” in IT can’t mean sustaining the status quo. Practical wins: app rationalisation, cloud right-sizing, and device lifecycle. How FinOps and GreenOps turn carbon savings into cost savings. The strengths and flaws of ESG frameworks and reporting standards. The role of accessibility and inclusion in truly sustainable IT. Why AI, when harnessed well, still gives hope for a regenerative future. Phil also shares stories from his time at the Eden Project and beyond, showing how technology connects communities, shapes culture, and can be a force for good when led with purpose. If you’ve ever wondered what IT leaders can really do to reduce impact and how to balance shareholder pressure with societal responsibility, this episode is for you. Connect with Julie on LinkedInConnect with Phil on LinkedIn Visit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

Julie Bishop sits down with Phil Skelton from eSentire to explore the evolving cyber threat landscape. From AI-powered attacks to cloud misconfigurations and indiscriminate ransomware campaigns, Phil shares why no business, large or small, is safe from today’s hackers. They discuss the growing importance of cyber hygiene, the power of frameworks like Cyber Essentials, and how the IT Naturally eSentire partnership helps organisations build security by design. Whether you’re an IT leader, business owner, or just curious about what’s keeping cybersecurity experts up at night, this conversation is packed with insights, practical advice, and real-world examples to help you protect your organisation and enable growth. In this episode, you’ll learn: Phil’s journey into cybersecurity and why he’s still passionate about the industry after 13+ years. The biggest threats facing businesses today – including the rise of browser-based attacks, cloud security gaps, and AI-enhanced phishing. Why the “we’re too small to be targeted” mindset is a dangerous myth. The crucial role of cloud hygiene and “spinning down” unused environments. How hackers are using AI to scale attacks and create more convincing social engineering tactics. The value of frameworks like Cyber Essentials & ISO 27001 for improving resilience, securing cyber insurance, and winning new contracts. How the IT Naturally–eSentire partnership delivers proactive, security-by-design protection for customers. Why security should be an enabler, not a blocker, for business growth. Career advice for anyone wanting to enter the cybersecurity field—no matter your background. How strong security protects organisations doing good, like charities, from losing vital funds to cybercrime. Get IT Naturally's practical 10 step guide to help your growing business stay ahead and stay protected here.Connect with Julie from IT Naturally on LinkedInConnect with Phil from eSentire on LinkedInVisit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

Co-CEOs Julie Bishop and Richard Gardner sit down to share the candid and inspiring story behind the company’s creation and the values that still guide every decision they make. Born in the wake of the Thomas Cook collapse, IT Naturally started with one airline customer, a kitchen table, and a shared vision to build an MSP that does things differently. Five years on, it’s a B Corp–certified, carbon-neutral company offering 24/7 support with a purpose. In this wide-ranging conversation, Julie and Richard cover: The founding story and early challenges (including launching just before a global pandemic!) Why cybersecurity is now the #1 priority for IT teams and where most companies fall short What Microsoft Secure Score reveals about your vulnerabilities The rise of hybrid support models and why short-term contracts are on the up How IT Naturally keeps its team balanced, playful, and high performing What being a B Corp means in practice, from procurement to recycling laptops You’ll also hear about: Charity challenges (with a mobile tuck shop) The weirdest thing that’s happened to Richard in an IT job And the simple things they’re proudest of after five years in business Listen now to discover: How IT Naturally designs secure, sustainable, and people-first IT services Why shorter MSP contracts and hybrid models are on the rise What your business can do today to reduce cyber risk Free Resources Mentioned: Out-of-Hours Support Guide for Mid-Sized Businessess Cyber Security & Compliance Guide Connect with Us on LinkedIn: Julie Bishop Richard Gardner Please add a note when connecting so we know where you found us!  Chapters 00:00 The Birth of IT Naturally 03:25 Evolution of the IT Landscape 03:28 Shift In IT over the years 04:53 Shift in the IT Security Landscape 05:56 World has gone 24/7 07:48 The Rise of Hybrid Support Models 10:03 Shocks in Security and Compliance Audits 11:36 Lack of Belief the Security Landscape has Changed 13:18 How being a B Corp Changes Business  18:58 Proud Moments and Looking to the Future  Visit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

Join Julie Bishop as she speaks with Katherine Matheson, Director at the Royal Institution and former CEO of the British Science Association, on the transformative powers of science, technology, and communication. Discover how Katherine’s early love for Asimov shaped her optimism, the evolution from CD‑ROMs to TikTok in science outreach, and why interdisciplinary thinking is essential today. They discuss crucial topics including AI, engineering biology, semiconductors, and the race to better batteries. Katherine also shares insights on inclusive access, future career paths beyond academia, and a hilariously surprising moment involving a giant model bottom at the RI. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or curious learner, this episode is a joyful and thought-provoking journey into the future of science communication. Visit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

In this episode of The IT Naturally Podcast, Julie Bishop chats with tech leader and digital transformation expert Fergus Boyd about his incredible career – from building PCs as a child to transforming digital experiences at British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Yotel and beyond.Fergus shares how curiosity and creative problem-solving have shaped his journey, why inclusive teams build better tech, and what he really thinks about the GenAI hype. They also explore how IT has unlocked growth, empowered careers, and why young people today have “no excuse” not to dive in.Expect stories of innovation, career lessons (including “never burn bridges”), and even a surprise involving Google, Piers Morgan, and Princess Kate…🌍 A must-listen for IT leaders, digital innovators and anyone who believes tech can be a force for good.Visit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn

From representing global IT leader IBM in Cabinet Office meetings, to jumping on emergency calls with retailers when the tills went down in her local supermarket (yes, really) – Janine Cook, former IBM Vice President and one of the UK’s top 100 most influential IT leaders, shares defining moments from her 37-year career in tech.Welcome to the very first episode of The IT Naturally Podcast – where we explore how IT can be a genuine force for good.Every month, our co-founder Julie Bishop will be joined by IT leaders, digital changemakers, and purpose-driven organisations to uncover how technology is being used for good – from transforming teams to tackling social challenges.In this episode:• What happens when the tills go down in Waitrose…• How rival tech companies worked together to support the NHS• Why the mainframe is still quietly running the world• Life after IBM – charity boards, TEDx, swimming, and golfWe’re also asking every guest:💡 What’s the technological development that’s had the most profound effect on society?Janine’s answer might surprise you.👇 Like, subscribe, and leave a comment to tell us your favourite moment – and don’t forget to follow for future episodes.Also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms.IT Naturally is changing the face of the MSP market by putting people and the planet first. Proud to be a certified B Corp.Visit the IT Naturally websiteFollow IT Naturally on LinkedIn