Podcasts about channel partners

TRN caught up with Anant Kale about the evolution of AppZen, its channel program and the growing role partners play in helping organizations manage increasingly complex financial and operational data. Kale outlined how companies are looking beyond basic automation toward tools that can surface insights, improve compliance and provide greater visibility into spending. He also discussed the opportunity for channel partners to act as strategic advisors and add value helping customers integrate new technologies, streamline processes and extract more value from their data. The conversation highlights how AI-driven financial operations are becoming a larger part of enterprise modernization efforts and determine.

Jason Byrne, SVP of Marketing at Crexendo, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about the company's growth strategy, brand evolution, and continued momentum in the channel. Byrne highlighted Crexendo's strong positioning in the cloud communications space, driven by its NetSapiens platform and a partner-centric model that empowers service providers to build and scale their own offerings. He emphasized that marketing plays a critical role in supporting partner success, helping them differentiate in a crowded market and effectively communicate value to end customers. “Our focus is on enabling partners to grow—both through technology and through strong, consistent messaging,” Byrne said. The conversation explored how Crexendo is investing in brand awareness and partner enablement, providing tools and resources that help partners accelerate sales and expand their reach. By aligning marketing initiatives with partner needs, the company is creating a more cohesive go-to-market strategy. Byrne also noted the importance of community within the Crexendo ecosystem, where partners collaborate, share best practices, and contribute to ongoing innovation. This collaborative approach strengthens the overall value of the platform and helps drive sustained growth. As discussions at Channel Partners continue to focus on differentiation and partner-led growth, Crexendo is positioning its marketing and platform strategy as a foundation for long-term success in the evolving cloud communications landscape. Learn more about Crexendo: https://www.crexendo.com/

Mark Lindsey, Analyst and Engineer at ECG, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about how AI is transforming call intelligence and post-call workflows for businesses and MSPs. Lindsey described ECG's approach to capturing and analyzing conversations, turning voice interactions into structured data that can be immediately acted upon. By leveraging AI, ECG enables automatic transcription, summarization, and extraction of key action items from calls, helping organizations streamline follow-up and improve accountability. “We're turning conversations into actionable intelligence that can be shared and used instantly,” Lindsey said. The platform goes beyond simple transcription by organizing insights into clear outputs such as summaries, tasks, and next steps. This allows teams to quickly understand what happened during a call and what needs to happen next, reducing manual effort and improving operational efficiency. The discussion also highlighted how these capabilities benefit MSPs and channel partners by enhancing customer engagement and internal workflows. By automating routine tasks and providing clearer visibility into communications, organizations can improve productivity while delivering a better customer experience. As conversations at Channel Partners continue to focus on AI and automation, ECG is positioning its solution as a practical way to bring intelligence and structure to everyday business communications. Learn more about ECG: https://www.ecg.co/

Zack Schwartz, Chief Sales Officer at Trustifi, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about the rising threat landscape in email security and the opportunity it creates for MSPs. Schwartz explained that email remains the primary attack vector for cyber threats, with increasingly sophisticated phishing campaigns now powered by artificial intelligence. These attacks are harder to detect and more convincing than ever, creating significant risk for businesses of all sizes. “Over 90% of cyberattacks still start with email, and AI is making those attacks more effective,” Schwartz said. Trustifi provides an email security platform designed specifically for MSPs, offering tools that are easy to deploy, manage, and scale across multiple customer environments. The platform includes advanced phishing detection, encryption, and data loss prevention capabilities, enabling partners to protect both inbound and outbound communications. The discussion also highlighted how MSPs can leverage email security as a core service offering. By deploying solutions like Trustifi internally and then extending them to customers, partners can both strengthen their own security posture and create new recurring revenue streams. As cybersecurity continues to be a top priority at Channel Partners, Trustifi is positioning its platform as a critical solution for MSPs looking to address modern email threats while expanding their service portfolios. Learn more about Trustifi: https://trustifi.com/

By Doug Green “We find good people for good people.” At the Channel Partners Conference & MSP Summit, I spoke with Keeley Davis, VP of Global Strategy & Growth at Solvo Global, about a growing challenge for MSPs and channel partners: how to find and scale talent in an increasingly competitive and global market. Solvo Global operates across 33 countries, giving it a broad footprint to help companies access talent both domestically and internationally. While many MSPs still rely on local hiring or informal networks to fill roles, Davis pointed out that the market is shifting. Companies are now more open to nearshore and offshore talent models as they look to control costs, improve scalability, and keep up with demand. For many smaller, family-run MSPs and channel businesses, hiring often begins informally—through referrals, personal networks, or word-of-mouth. While that approach can work in the early stages, it becomes a limitation as companies try to grow. Solvo Global positions itself as a more structured and scalable alternative, helping organizations move from ad hoc hiring to a more strategic talent acquisition model. The company supports both U.S.-based recruiting and global staffing, meeting organizations wherever they are in their growth journey. For companies not yet ready to fully embrace global talent, Solvo can start with domestic placements. For those ready to expand, the firm provides access to international talent pools that can augment teams across functions. A key driver behind this shift is the broader conversation around AI and automation. As businesses invest in new technologies, they also need the right people to implement, manage, and support those systems. In many cases, global talent becomes a practical way to bridge that gap quickly and efficiently. For MSPs and channel partners, the takeaway is clear: talent strategy is becoming a competitive differentiator. Companies that can access and manage global talent effectively will be better positioned to scale, serve customers, and compete in a rapidly evolving market. Learn more at: https://solvoglobal.com

Shiraz Hasan, Vice President of Channel and Distribution at AT&T Business, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about the company's evolving partner-first strategy and its commitment to driving growth through the channel. Hasan emphasized that AT&T Business is focused on simplifying engagement for partners while expanding the range of solutions they can bring to market. By aligning internal resources, streamlining processes, and enhancing partner support, the company aims to make it easier for MSPs and channel partners to sell and deliver AT&T services. “We are building a partner-first model that makes it easier to do business with us and grow together,” Hasan said. The discussion highlighted the breadth of AT&T Business offerings, including connectivity, mobility, and advanced networking solutions, and how these can be combined to address complex customer needs. Partners are increasingly looking for integrated solutions that deliver both performance and flexibility, particularly as enterprises continue their digital transformation journeys. Hasan also noted that the channel is a critical growth engine for AT&T Business, with ongoing investments in tools, training, and enablement programs designed to help partners succeed. By fostering closer collaboration and providing greater visibility into opportunities, AT&T is strengthening its relationships across the partner ecosystem. As conversations at Channel Partners continue to focus on partner enablement and new revenue opportunities, AT&T Business is positioning its channel strategy as a foundation for long-term growth and innovation. Learn more about AT&T Business: https://www.business.att.com/

Tony Puopolo, GM of Digi Managed Solutions at Digi International, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about how IoT, 5G, and managed services are creating new growth opportunities for channel partners. Puopolo explained that Digi International is focused on delivering end-to-end connectivity solutions that combine hardware, software, and managed services. These integrated offerings simplify deployment and management for customers operating in distributed and mission-critical environments such as utilities, transportation, and industrial applications. “Our goal is to make connectivity simple, secure, and scalable for partners and their customers,” Puopolo said. The discussion highlighted Digi's latest innovations, including advanced 5G-enabled platforms designed to support edge computing and real-time data processing. By combining networking, compute, and security capabilities into a single solution, Digi enables organizations to reduce complexity and improve operational efficiency. Puopolo also emphasized Digi's channel-first approach, noting that partners play a critical role in delivering these solutions to the market. By offering managed services alongside technology platforms, partners can create recurring revenue streams while addressing customer needs for reliable, always-on connectivity. As conversations at Channel Partners continue to focus on IoT, 5G, and edge innovation, Digi International is positioning itself as a key enabler for partners looking to expand into high-growth connectivity and managed services opportunities. Learn more about Digi International: https://www.digi.com/

Peter Galanis, Founder and CEO of Fortavera, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about how MSPs can scale more effectively through structured strategy, operational discipline, and execution. Galanis explained that many MSPs struggle to move beyond incremental growth because they lack a clear framework for scaling their business. Fortavera works with service providers to align leadership, operations, and go-to-market strategy, helping them transition from day-to-day firefighting to long-term, sustainable growth. “Growth doesn't happen by accident—it requires a disciplined approach to strategy and execution,” Galanis said. The conversation highlighted how MSPs can improve performance by focusing on key areas such as sales processes, operational efficiency, and leadership alignment. By building repeatable systems and focusing on accountability, organizations can scale without losing control of their business. Galanis also emphasized the importance of shifting mindset from working “in the business” to working “on the business.” This transition allows MSP leaders to focus on strategic initiatives rather than being consumed by daily operations. As discussions at Channel Partners continue to center on growth and differentiation, Fortavera is positioning itself as a strategic partner for MSPs looking to accelerate their development and build more scalable, resilient businesses. Learn more about Fortavera: https://fortavera.com/

Jason Beal, President, Americas at Exclusive Networks, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about the company's channel-first approach to cybersecurity and how partners can capitalize on growing demand for advanced security solutions. Beal explained that as cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations are looking for specialized security solutions that go beyond traditional offerings. Exclusive Networks focuses on delivering a curated portfolio of best-of-breed cybersecurity technologies through a partner-led model. “Our entire business is built around enabling partners to bring world-class security solutions to their customers,” Beal said. The discussion highlighted how Exclusive Networks supports partners with not only technology but also services, training, and go-to-market resources. This enables MSPs, VARs, and service providers to expand their cybersecurity capabilities without needing to build deep expertise in-house. Beal also emphasized the importance of specialization in today's market. As cybersecurity becomes more complex, partners who can differentiate themselves with advanced solutions and expertise are better positioned to win and retain customers. As conversations at Channel Partners continue to focus on security, AI, and partner growth, Exclusive Networks is positioning itself as a key enabler for partners looking to build scalable, high-value cybersecurity practices. Learn more about Exclusive Networks: https://www.exclusive-networks.com/usa

Grant Kirkwood, CEO of Contrivian, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about the company's vision for resilient connectivity through multi-constellation satellite and hybrid network architectures. Kirkwood explained that Contrivian is addressing a growing need for reliable, always-on connectivity by combining Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks with terrestrial infrastructure into a unified, software-defined platform. This approach allows enterprises and service providers to deliver connectivity that mirrors the resilience traditionally associated with fiber networks. “We're bringing terrestrial-grade resilience to LEO by unifying multiple networks into a single, intelligent platform,” Kirkwood said. The company's platform integrates multiple connectivity options—including satellite, fiber, LTE/5G, and broadband—into a cohesive ecosystem that can dynamically route traffic based on availability and performance. This architecture is particularly valuable for mission-critical environments where downtime is not an option. The discussion also highlighted how Contrivian enables partners to shift from selling connectivity components to delivering outcomes. By abstracting the complexity of multi-network environments, partners can offer reliable, high-performance connectivity solutions without managing multiple vendors and contracts. As conversations at Channel Partners continue to focus on next-generation connectivity and network resilience, Contrivian is positioning its platform as a key enabler of seamless, intelligent infrastructure for enterprises and service providers. Learn more about Contrivian: https://contrivian.com/

AudioCodes at Channel Partners: From Voice Infrastructure to Cloud Integration Platform, Podcast By Doug Green “We're not focused on one platform—we're focused on integration and flexibility across all of them.” At the Channel Partners Conference in Las Vegas, I caught up with Paul Hunsucker and Mitch Hirschkowitz of AudioCodes to talk about how the company has evolved—and where the opportunity lies for channel partners today. AudioCodes is one of those companies that nearly everyone in telecom recognizes, but its identity has shifted significantly over time. What began more than 30 years ago in the early days of VoIP—building media gateways, session border controllers (SBCs), and voice infrastructure—has now evolved into something much broader. Today, AudioCodes positions itself as a SaaS platform company focused on managing and integrating UCaaS and CCaaS environments. Rather than competing as a single-platform provider, the company is leaning into a multi-platform strategy—certified across ecosystems like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom—giving customers and partners flexibility in how they build and manage communications environments. That shift reflects a larger industry trend. Enterprises are no longer standardizing on a single vendor. Instead, they are assembling communications stacks that span multiple platforms, carriers, and applications. The challenge—and opportunity—for partners is making those environments work seamlessly. AudioCodes is targeting that exact problem. The company's platform approach allows partners to deliver integrated solutions while still giving customers the freedom to choose their preferred UCaaS or CCaaS provider. It also enables enterprises to retain elements of control they previously had in on-prem environments—such as managing SBCs or bringing their own carrier—while benefiting from the scalability of the cloud. For MSPs and channel partners, this creates a clear path forward. Rather than selling a single solution, the opportunity is to become the integrator—the trusted advisor who can stitch together platforms, ensure interoperability, and deliver a consistent user experience. Visit www.audiocodes.com

Jordy Cohen, Senior Director of Partnerships at Chrono Innovation, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about how custom software development is enabling MSPs and channel partners to deliver more differentiated solutions. Cohen explained that many organizations are constrained by off-the-shelf software that doesn't fully align with their operational needs. Chrono Innovation works with partners to design and build custom applications that integrate with existing systems while addressing specific business challenges. “Every business has unique requirements, and custom development allows partners to deliver solutions that truly fit their customers' needs,” Cohen said. The conversation highlighted how MSPs can leverage custom development as a strategic differentiator, moving beyond standard service offerings to deliver tailored solutions that drive higher value and deeper customer relationships. By working with development partners like Chrono Innovation, MSPs can expand their capabilities without needing to build in-house engineering teams. Cohen also emphasized the importance of collaboration between technical teams and business stakeholders to ensure that custom solutions align with both operational goals and user expectations. As discussions at Channel Partners continue to focus on innovation and differentiation, Chrono Innovation is helping partners unlock new opportunities by delivering customized, integrated software solutions that address real-world business challenges. Learn more about Chrono Innovation: https://www.chronoinnovation.com/

Simon Davis, VP of Marketing at RoboForm, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about the growing importance of password management and identity security for MSPs and their customers. Davis emphasized that weak and reused passwords remain one of the most common vulnerabilities in enterprise environments, making password management solutions a critical component of modern cybersecurity strategies. RoboForm provides tools that help organizations securely store, generate, and manage credentials across users and devices. “Password security is still one of the easiest ways for attackers to gain access, and it's one of the easiest problems to fix with the right tools,” Davis said. The conversation highlighted how MSPs can incorporate password management into their service offerings, both to improve their own internal security posture and to deliver added value to customers. By deploying centralized credential management and enforcing best practices, MSPs can reduce risk while creating new recurring revenue opportunities. Davis also noted that as organizations adopt more cloud applications and remote work models, the need for secure identity management continues to grow. Password management solutions serve as a foundational layer in broader security strategies that include multi-factor authentication and access control. As discussions at Channel Partners continue to focus on cybersecurity and risk mitigation, RoboForm is positioning its platform as an accessible and effective way for MSPs to strengthen security and expand their service portfolios. Learn more about RoboForm: https://www.roboform.com/

Carrie Richardson of Fox & Crow Group spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo about how MSPs and channel partners can build more effective demand generation strategies and accelerate growth. Richardson emphasized that many MSPs struggle with consistent lead generation and often rely too heavily on referrals or ad hoc marketing efforts. Fox & Crow Group focuses on helping partners build structured, repeatable marketing programs that generate qualified opportunities and support long-term business growth. “MSPs need a predictable way to generate demand, not just occasional wins from referrals or one-off campaigns,” Richardson said. The conversation explored how successful marketing strategies for MSPs combine clear messaging, targeted outreach, and consistent execution. By aligning marketing efforts with business goals and customer needs, partners can create a more sustainable pipeline of opportunities. Richardson also highlighted the importance of understanding the customer journey and tailoring messaging to different stages of the buying process. This approach helps MSPs engage prospects more effectively and convert interest into revenue. As discussions at Channel Partners continue to focus on growth and differentiation in a competitive market, Fox & Crow Group is helping MSPs develop the marketing discipline needed to scale their businesses and build stronger customer relationships. Learn more about Fox & Crow Group: https://www.foxcrowgroup.com/

By Doug Green “We provide a real alternative to the hyperscalers—with more personality and a true partnership approach to the channel.” At the Channel Partners Conference MSP Summit, I caught up with Tim Mandell of Leaseweb to discuss how the company is positioning itself for MSPs and channel partners looking for more control, flexibility, and partnership in their infrastructure strategy. Leaseweb, now a 28-year-old company, operates as a private, sovereign-by-design infrastructure provider. That distinction—private and sovereign—was central to our conversation and reflects a broader shift in how enterprises and partners are thinking about cloud and infrastructure. Unlike publicly traded hyperscalers, Leaseweb emphasizes independence. “We don't report to the street,” Mandell explained, highlighting the company's ability to focus on long-term customer outcomes rather than quarterly earnings pressure. That independence translates into more flexibility for partners and a willingness to engage in tailored, relationship-driven solutions. From a services standpoint, Leaseweb offers a full stack of infrastructure options, including colocation, private cloud, public cloud, bare metal servers, storage, and content delivery. The goal is not to compete head-on with hyperscalers on scale, but to provide an alternative that prioritizes customization, transparency, and partner alignment. For MSPs and channel partners, that positioning creates opportunity. As Mandell noted, Leaseweb is actively investing in the channel, attending events like Channel Partners to better understand partner needs and refine its go-to-market approach. The company is focused on being vendor-agnostic and enabling partners to build solutions that fit their customers—rather than forcing them into rigid architectures. The concept of “sovereign infrastructure” also resonates in today's environment, where data control, compliance, and jurisdictional concerns are becoming more important. Enterprises are increasingly asking where their data resides, who has access to it, and how it is governed. Leaseweb's model allows partners to address those concerns with greater precision. At the same time, the conversation reflects a broader industry trend: the growing demand for alternatives to hyperscaler dominance. While public cloud remains critical, many organizations are rethinking a one-size-fits-all approach and looking for hybrid or specialized solutions that better align with performance, cost, and compliance requirements. For the channel, this creates a clear path forward. Providers that can offer flexible infrastructure options—combined with strong vendor relationships—are well positioned to differentiate in a crowded market. Leaseweb's message is straightforward: be a partner, not just a platform. And in a market where MSPs are looking for both technical capability and business alignment, that approach may resonate more than ever.

By Doug Green “Tax compliance isn't just a regulatory issue—it's becoming a critical part of how service providers scale globally.” On the opening day of Channel Partners Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, I caught up with Spencer Lee of Telin to discuss an often-overlooked issue in unified communications: tax compliance. Lee, my first guest of the show, framed the conversation around a growing challenge for service providers and channel partners operating across borders. As UCaaS, CCaaS, and CPaaS offerings expand globally, tax exposure—particularly indirect taxes tied to communications services—is becoming more complex and harder to ignore. Telin positions itself as a channel-first provider, delivering the underlying infrastructure partners need to go to market. That includes SIP trunking, hosting, hardware, and integration support—essentially a bundled backend designed to simplify deployment for partners in the unified communications space. But increasingly, that backend must also account for compliance. As Lee explained, providers entering new markets often underestimate the tax implications tied to telecom services. These aren't traditional corporate taxes—they're jurisdiction-specific telecom taxes, regulatory fees, and compliance requirements that vary widely by country and even region. For channel partners, this creates both risk and opportunity. On one hand, failure to properly account for telecom taxes can lead to penalties, billing complications, and margin erosion. On the other, partners who align with infrastructure providers that manage these complexities can accelerate global expansion without taking on that burden directly. Telin's approach is to abstract much of that complexity away from the partner. By handling infrastructure, interconnection, and compliance considerations within its platform, the company enables partners to focus on customer relationships and service delivery. The conversation highlights a broader trend emerging across the channel: as communications becomes more global and software-driven, operational details like tax compliance are moving from back-office concerns to strategic differentiators. For partners attending Channel Partners this week, it's a reminder that winning in UCaaS isn't just about features—it's about everything behind the scenes that makes those services viable at scale.

What we cover Start with brokers, not against them. The typical "tech disruption" approach frames brokers as rent-seeking middlemen.  Nick's counterargument:  Brokers fill a trust role that no website can replicate They touch roughly 70% of small-to-mid-size business health plan sales They will pick up the phone (how many millennials and Gen Zers can say that? Certainly not I) Brokers will also tell your product team what's missing. All of those "oH, MemBeRS woN'T bOOk USer IntErvIeWs wITh mE" Product Managers should probably be talking to brokers If you don't have rate relief, you have nothing. Rate relief is the one question brokers are being asked by their clients, day in and day out. If you can't show that your plan is cheaper for at least 40% of groups, the conversation doesn't start. Nick's heuristic: if the broker doesn't have price, they have nothing to sell, no matter how elegant the technology. Therefore: focus on steerage. The difference between the cheapest and most expensive MRI in Austin, TX is roughly 8x. If you can build a plan that guides people to the lower-cost option for non-emergency shoppable services, you've found the actual lever. Nick's starter heuristic: for all non-emergency hospital claims, do you have an alternative good spot to send members to next time?  Then simplify until it hurts. Decent spent four years before it could credibly sell the Zero Plan: “if you do what the plan wants you to do, it costs you $0 outside your monthly contribution.” That is the level of simplicity you need to actually break through to the decision maker at your prospects. The HR person who has to make this decision once a year and really doesn't want to be in this conversation needs a message that lands in one sentence. This also helps brokers sell (remember rule number one). Brought to you by Stedi - Stedi is the modern healthcare clearinghouse. They're the new way to verify insurance, submit claims, and track claim payments. http://stedi.com/demo For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email sales@outofpocket.health Find Nick nsoman@nice.healthcare nick@decent.com Nice Healthcare: https://www.nice.healthcare/ Decent: decent.com Exciting upcoming events in the OOP world We have a Hackathon in SF from Apr 17-19. We're full on Hackers, but you should definitely come to Demo Day and see what people built. I built an app for people to lend Oura Sleep/Readiness Points to each other… at 10% Daily Compounding. I'm calling it “Oura Farming”. I guarantee you there will be 10x better ideas than that at Demo Day Timestamps 00:00 Intro: Why Tech People Fail in Healthcare (With Nick Soman, Former CEO of Decent) 09:47 Tip #1 — If You Can't Sell to Brokers, You Have Nothing 19:17 Reframe Brokers as Channel Partners, Not Middlemen 29:06 Make It Simpler. Then Simpler Again. (The Story of the Zero Plan) 34:53 The Secret Weapon: Steerage (And Why an 8x Price Spread Changes Everything) 43:56 Narrow Networks, Broker Trust, and Building Something You'd Put Your Own Family On

Jim Cahill's podcast conversation with Emerson's Knut Riegel explores what “proximity to the customer” looks like in practice, and which leading indicators signal a healthy service ecosystem.

Charlene Ignacio of Fornix Marketing spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Enterprise Connect conference about Beyond the Box, a CRM platform designed to help MSPs and channel partners better manage customer relationships and business operations. Ignacio explained that many service providers struggle with fragmented tools and processes when managing sales pipelines, customer engagement, and service delivery. Beyond the Box addresses this challenge by providing a platform tailored specifically to the needs of the channel, allowing MSPs to manage leads, automate workflows, and maintain better visibility into their business performance. “Beyond the Box was built with the channel in mind, helping partners streamline operations while maintaining strong relationships with their customers,” she said. The platform is designed to integrate CRM capabilities with operational workflows, helping organizations align their marketing, sales, and service functions more effectively. This integration can help partners improve customer engagement while simplifying the management of ongoing client relationships. During the conversation, Ignacio emphasized that effective CRM systems are becoming increasingly important as MSPs grow their customer bases and expand their service portfolios. By adopting tools that are purpose-built for the channel, partners can improve efficiency and scale their operations more effectively. As conversations at Enterprise Connect continue to highlight the importance of digital transformation and operational efficiency, solutions like Beyond the Box are helping channel partners build stronger, more organized customer engagement strategies. Learn more about Fornix Marketing: https://fornixmarketing.com/ Learn more about Beyond the Box: https://www.btbcrm.ca/

This episode of In Case You Missed It is brought to you by ESET Canada. ESET’s Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship is now open for 2026, with three $5,000 awards available to women pursuing careers in cybersecurity. Applications close April 8. Learn more and apply. On this episode: Channel profits in freefall. A new global survey from Omdia found that nearly 60% of channel partners expect Q1 profits to decline by double digits. Revenue is slightly more encouraging, but costs are rising faster than partners can pass them through. Hardware vendors are refusing to hold pricing until shipment and in some cases cancelling orders after POs have been received. If you haven’t stress-tested your quoting and procurement processes, that conversation needs to happen now. Check Point plants a data sovereignty flag in Canada. Check Point Software launched a dedicated Canada data region for its CloudGuard Web Application Firewall, ensuring all configurations, logs, and security data remain within Canadian borders. For partners navigating data residency and CLOUD Act conversations, this removes a common objection and adds another signal that global vendors are recognizing the Canadian market demands more than just a sales office. Canadian partners on the CRN MSP 500. CRN’s 2026 MSP 500 list included several Canadian companies: WBM Technologies out of Saskatoon on the Elite 150, Bulletproof (a GLI company) on the Security 100, Nucleus Networks on the Pioneer 250, plus appearances from Arctiq, Converge, and Premier Cloud. ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship. ESET’s Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship is open for 2026, with three $5,000 awards for women in Canada pursuing cybersecurity careers. Now in its 11th year, the program has supported 14 women in Canada with more than $50,000 in funding since expanding here in 2021. Last year’s Trailblazer Award recipient, Constance Prevot, is now a working SOC analyst while finishing her degree at Concordia. Deadline to apply: April 8, 2026. Remembering Rob Megaw and honouring Fawn Annan. The Canadian channel lost Rob Megaw, president of Compu-SOLVE Technologies in Midland, Ontario, who led the company for more than 30 years — from its beginnings as a local ISP and PC repair shop through its evolution into a managed services provider. Our condolences to his family and the Compu-SOLVE team. And CIOCAN announced the CanadianCIO Fawn Annan Memorial Award, recognizing women in IT leadership whose work reflects Fawn’s enormous contribution to Canada’s technology community. Nominations are open. Read Full Transcript Welcome to In Case You Missed It from ChannelBuzz.ca. I’m Robert Dutt, editor of ChannelBuzz.ca. Today is Monday, March 16th, 2026. Let’s get your week started right. This week’s In Case You Missed It is brought to you by ESET Canada. ESET’s Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship is now open for 2026, with three $5,000 awards available to women pursuing careers in cybersecurity. Applications close April 8th. Learn more and apply at eset dot come slash ca. ESET – protecting progress. If you needed a single data point to explain the mood in the channel right now, Omdia may have just provided it. A new global survey from the analyst firm found that close to 60 percent of channel partners expect their Q1 profits to decline by double digits compared to last year. Less than a third predict that profits will grow at all. The revenue picture is slightly more encouraging – 45 percent expect Q1 revenues to increase year over year, and about a third are forecasting double-digit revenue growth. But there’s a dangerous disconnect between topline and bottom line, and the reason is straightforward: costs are rising faster than partners can pass them through. Hardware vendors are increasingly refusing to hold pricing until the point of shipment, and in some cases are cancelling orders even after a purchase order has been received. If you’re locked into contractual pricing with a customer, you quoted a price, the vendor changed theirs, and you’re absorbing the difference. Layer in Middle East conflict pushing oil prices higher, component shortages showing no signs of easing for at least another 12 months, and the downstream effects on cloud providers, MSPs, and SaaS companies all being forced to raise their own prices – and Omdia’s Alastair Edwards warns the risk of channel bankruptcies is set to increase dramatically. If you haven’t stress-tested your quoting and procurement processes for a world where vendor pricing is no longer reliable, that conversation needs to happen now. Check Point Software launched a dedicated Canada data region last week for its CloudGuard Web Application Firewall. All configurations, logs, and security data generated by Canadian customers using CloudGuard WAF will now stay within Canadian borders. This is a data sovereignty play, and the timing isn’t accidental. Data residency is becoming a real differentiator in how Canadian organizations evaluate security vendors. Whether it’s regulatory pressure, customer demand, or the reality that storing data with U.S.-headquartered cloud providers carries CLOUD Act risk, the partners who can have an honest conversation about where data lives are the ones winning deals. For Check Point partners, it removes one of the more common objections. And in a broader sense, it’s another signal that global security vendors are recognizing that having a data region in Canada actually matters to this market. CRN published its annual MSP 500 list last week, and several Canadian companies made the cut. WBM Technologies out of Saskatoon landed on the Elite 150 – now in its 75th year and still reinventing itself. Bulletproof, a GLI company based in New Brunswick, made the Security 100. Nucleus Networks, which has expanded from Vancouver to five cities across Western Canada, appeared on the Pioneer 250. Arctiq, Converge, and Premier Cloud also showed up across the three categories. We don’t dwell on awards lists on this podcast, but the MSP 500 is one of the few that gives Canadian partners real visibility alongside the larger U.S. players. If you’re building your practice and wondering whether you’re on the right track, it’s worth looking at who made it and asking what they’re doing that you could learn from. Since our friends at ESET Canada are sponsoring this episode, it’s worth flagging something they’re doing that goes beyond product. The ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship is now open for 2026, with three $5,000 awards available to women in Canada pursuing careers in cybersecurity. The deadline to apply is April 8th. This is the 11th year of the program.  Since 2021, ESET has supported 14 women in Canada with more than $50,000 in scholarship funding. Last year’s Trailblazer recipient, Constance Prevot, is now a working SOC analyst while finishing her degree at Concordia. If you know someone who should apply, point them to eset.com/ca. Link’s in the show notes. Finally, two moments from the past week that remind us this industry is built by people, not just products. The Canadian channel lost Rob Megaw last week. Rob was the president of Compu-SOLVE Technologies in Midland, Ontario, and had led the company for more than 30 years – from its early days as a local ISP and PC repair shop through its evolution into a managed services provider. That’s the Canadian channel story in miniature, and our condolences go out to his family and the Compu-SOLVE team. On a more hopeful note, CIOCAN announced the CanadianCIO Fawn Annan Memorial Award, recognizing women in IT leadership whose work reflects Fawn’s enormous contribution to Canada’s technology community. Fawn founded the CanadianCIO of the Year Awards and the CIO Hall of Fame. Nominations are open, and we’ll have a link in the show notes. Those are some of the things we were paying attention to last week.  This week on In The Channel: Zero Networks goes all-in on the channel and why Canadian partners should pay attention. Barracuda’s Merium Khalid walks us through their latest threat report. And Jeff Collins from WanAware makes the case that you’re hitting every SLA metric and your customer still thinks you’re failing.  For ChannelBuzz.ca, I’m Robert Dutt. Have a great week, and I’ll see you in the channel.

Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, interviewed Will Morey, Managing Director of Gamma Business, to discuss the next phase of the global PSTN switch-off and what it means for service providers, partners, and enterprise customers. The conversation focused on the transition from legacy copper networks to IP-based communications and the growing importance of execution as the deadline approaches. Morey explained that the industry has moved beyond awareness of the PSTN shutdown and is now firmly in the execution phase. For many partners, the challenge is no longer understanding that migration must occur, but rather how to transition large numbers of customer sites without disrupting services or damaging long-standing relationships. Businesses still rely on traditional lines for critical applications such as alarms, payment terminals, and other infrastructure that cannot always be moved quickly to IP. To help partners manage this complexity, Gamma developed Edge Migrate, a platform designed to analyze customer estates, plan migrations, and coordinate transitions across both Gamma and third-party services. The goal is to simplify the operational burden for partners while protecting recurring revenue streams and ensuring continuity of service during the migration process. Morey also highlighted an often overlooked aspect of the PSTN transition: some environments are not yet ready for full IP voice. In those situations, interim connectivity solutions can keep essential services running while organizations address network readiness and modernization requirements. By providing these transitional capabilities, partners can continue supporting customers while guiding them toward long-term digital infrastructure. Ultimately, Morey emphasized that the PSTN switch-off represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Partners that act early, leverage migration tools, and maintain close engagement with their customers will be best positioned to turn the copper sunset into a moment of growth rather than disruption. Visit https://gammagroup.co/

Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, interviewed Dayton Turner, VP of Solutions Engineering, and Chris Burgy, SVP of Corporate Development at Ooma, to discuss the accelerating transition away from legacy copper lines and the growing opportunity for partners to address the POTS replacement market. The discussion focused on the ongoing retirement of the public switched telephone network (PSTN) and the operational challenges organizations face as they migrate critical services from traditional analog lines to modern connectivity solutions. Turner explained that many businesses still depend on POTS lines for applications such as elevators, alarm systems, fire panels, and point-of-sale terminals—systems that were originally designed around the reliability of copper infrastructure. As telecom providers continue phasing out these legacy networks, organizations must identify alternative technologies that maintain reliability while supporting modern connectivity requirements. Burgy emphasized that the transition represents a significant opportunity for channel partners and service providers. Many enterprises and small businesses are only beginning to understand the scope of the copper shutdown and the operational impact it will have on their infrastructure. This creates demand for partners who can evaluate existing deployments, recommend migration strategies, and implement replacement solutions that ensure continuity of critical services. The conversation also highlighted how wireless and IP-based solutions are increasingly being deployed to replace traditional analog lines. These technologies enable businesses to maintain connectivity for essential systems without the limitations of legacy copper infrastructure, while also improving manageability and scalability. For partners, the key is combining technical expertise with proactive engagement to help customers navigate the transition before service disruptions occur. Ultimately, Turner and Burgy stressed that the copper sunset is not simply a network upgrade—it is a structural shift in telecommunications infrastructure. Organizations that begin planning now will be better positioned to maintain operational resilience, while partners who guide customers through the migration will play a critical role in the next phase of enterprise communications. Visit https://www.ooma.com/

Can you land enterprise clients like Marriott and Panasonic without a massive sales team? Dima Syrotkin, founder of Panda Training, reveals his strategy for hacking enterprise sales: partnering with consulting firms who already have the trust (and the golf buddies) to close the deal for you. In this interview, Dima and Sean discuss why firing middle managers is a mistake, the reality of "AI shrinking companies," and why getting SOC2 and ISO certifications was the best $20k he ever spent. Dima also shares his personal struggle with defensiveness as a CEO and how hiring an angel investor full-time forced him to confront his own ego. Check out the company: https://pandatron.ai

Tresic emerged from stealth with breaking news: the launch of Tresic Intelligence Cloud, a new add-on platform designed for CSPs and channel partners to layer AI-driven insights, automation, and coaching on top of existing UCaaS and CCaaS services. In a conversation with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, Robert Galop and Kevin Nethercott said the timing is deliberate—service providers have spent two decades building the UCaaS/CCaaS/CPaaS foundation, and now have the opportunity to monetize intelligence on top of it. The core idea is to unlock the “dark data” inside everyday business conversations—calls, meetings, video, email, and more—then convert it into actionable outcomes like follow-ups, alerts, and performance improvement. “If I'm a business owner, the holy grail for me is if I knew what all of my customers were thinking and saying about me,” Nethercott said, framing how conversation intelligence can improve products, service, pricing, and strategy when delivered in a secure, privacy-respecting way. Tresic positions the Intelligence Cloud around three common business gaps: limited visibility into churn and compliance risk, missed commitments that never make it into systems of record, and the need to coach and improve frontline performance in sales and support. The company says it has packaged these capabilities as ready-to-deploy “co-pilots” that can be enabled quickly—avoiding the long, complex deployments that often slow AI projects. Galop emphasized the approach is meant to assist workers, not replace them, noting the platform is designed to fit into existing workflows with minimal training. For the channel, Tresic's pitch is also economic: by bundling add-on packages per location and per user, providers can move from selling “just seats” to selling higher-value intelligence services—often approaching 2x (and potentially more) revenue per customer relationship. Tresic also highlighted partner readiness, citing integration work—including a partnership mentioned with NetSapiens Crescendo—as part of its effort to make onboarding and activation simple for service providers and their customers. Learn more at tresic.cloud.

Eliza Lochner is a seasoned marketing leader with experience spanning Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups. She leads global marketing for Airbnb's real estate development partnerships and new supply initiatives, including the Airbnb Friendly Apartments program, which helps renters earn supplemental income while giving property owners transparency, controls, and new revenue opportunities. Passionate about building human connections that fuel business growth, Eliza focuses on partnerships at the intersection of housing affordability, flexibility, and real estate innovation.(01:30) - Airbnb-friendly Apartments (02:55) - Addressing Housing Affordability(04:34) - Owner & Property Manager Controls(06:28) - Program Success & Expansion(09:25) - Impact on Resident & Investor Attraction(14:24) - Revenue Sharing & Incentives(18:56) - Building Trust with Property Managers(21:14) - Blueprint - The Future of Real Estate - Register for 2026: The Premier Event for Industry Executives, Real Estate & Construction Tech Startups and VC's, at The Venetian, Las Vegas on September 22nd-24th, 2026. As a friend of Tangent, you can save $300 on your All-Access pass(22:05) - Channel Partners & Distribution Strategy(24:00) - Boutique Hotels Partnerships(25:45) - Major Events: World Cup and Olympics(29:43) - Future of Airbnb Friendly Buildings Program(31:26) - Collaboration Superpower: Michelle Obama & Eumaeus (Wiki)

Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, spoke with Ty Kircher (NSP Practice Lead, Cellhub) and Dennis Napoliello (Head of U.S. Sales, MultiLine at Movius) about a problem every mobile-first organization runs into: separating personal and business communications on one smartphone—securely and compliantly—without forcing employees to carry two phones. “The MultiLine solution gives enterprises control without forcing users to carry two phones.” Cellhub has been working with vendors like Movius to build an ecosystem of partners (including carrier T-Mobile) that helps channel partners deliver innovative mobile solutions to end-users. Movius addresses the security gap in employee-to-client voice, messaging, and collaboration by offering Secure Communications as a Service. MultiLine™ is designed for hybrid and mobile work: users maintain two separate lines on one device, each secure, compliant, and dedicated—with separate features like voicemail—and with multi-channel communications documented per line. This eliminates the need for separate phones/numbers for Teams, personal use, social media, and apps like WhatsApp or WeChat—Movius consolidates multi-channel communication into one unified, secure ecosystem. That's a strong differentiator for solution providers selling into healthcare and financial services, where organizations must ensure communications compliance with regulations like HIPAA and FINRA, including on personal devices, and across verticals such as government, transportation, and education. MultiLine is positioned as an AI-driven, mobile-first approach that unifies communications and collaboration. Cellhub is also coordinating with a roster of vendor partners to bring unique mobile and wireless computing products and services to market, including initiatives with Tri Cascade, SkyMirr, and its PC-as-a-Service program with Lifetime EndPoint Resource. Reach Cellhub at www.cellhub.com or email Ty Kircher at Ty.Kircher@cellhub.com. Contact Movius at www.movius.ai or reach Dennis Napoliello at Dennis.Napoliello@Movius.ai. Software Mind Telco Days 2025: On-demand online conference Engaging Customers, Harnessing Data

Today, our guest on The PARTNERNOMICS® Show is Jay McBain, Chief Analyst at Omdia. Jay McBain is an accomplished speaker, author and innovator in the IT industry. Named Channel Influencer of the Year by Channel Partners Magazine, Top 40 Under Forty by the Business Review, Channel A-List by CRN, Top 8 Thought Leader by Channel Marketing Journal, Top 20 Visionary by ChannelPro, Top 25 Newsmaker by CDN Magazine, Top 50 Channel Influencer by Penton, Top 100 Most Respected Thought Leader by VSR Magazine, Global Power 150 by SMB Magazine, and Top 250 Managed Services Executives by MSPmentor. Jay is often sought out for keynotes, thought leadership and future industry guidance. He has spent his 30-year career in various executive channel sales, marketing, strategy roles within IBM, Lenovo, Autotask, ChannelEyes, Forrester, and now Canalys. Jay is the chief analyst for global channels at Canalys - the world's leading analyst firm with a distinct focus on channels, partnerships, alliances, and ecosystems. Jay has led several communities at CompTIA including Vendor Advisory Council, Managed Services Community, Advancing Women in Tech and Emerging Tech. He is also a board member of Channel Partners, Channel Vanguard Council, Ziff Davis Leadership Council, and CRN Channel Intelligence Council. As a futurist, and long standing member of the World Future Society, Jay is a recognized expert in the future of channels, alliances, partnering ecosystems and the study of emerging go-to-market models. An avid blogger, community, and social media expert, he has developed an innovative channel tech stack highlighting the importance of channel data and automation. Jay has lived in Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Raleigh, Albany & Boynton Beach. He actively gives back to the community and been on the board of the United Way, National Cristina Foundation, and Junior Achievement. Key Insights: Services Now Outpace Products In Growth, Making Partner Ecosystems Essential For Scale Millennial Buyers Prefer Integrated Best Of Breed Stacks And Avoid Traditional Sales Motions Ecosystems Determine Winners, As No Company Succeeds Without Alliances, Integrations, and Services Partners Deals Are Shaped By Twenty-eight Buying Moments and An Average Of Seven Influencing Partners LAUNCH Provides Leaders A Clear System For Building Profit-Focused Partnership Programs Around These Moments A Small Percentage Of Partners Produce Most Results, So Leaders Must Recruit Broadly And Invest In Proven Performers   ********* Are you a partnering professional wanting to earn industry certifications and badges to showcase on LinkedIn? We will give you the first course and certification for FREE ($595 value)!

We've brought Kelly Battaglini, back from her recent episode on product marketing to dig more into product launches. Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbattaglini/

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Cisco's channel partner ecosystem has undergone a profound transformation following a series of announcements at its 2025 Partner Summit in San Diego. The core focus of said announcements is enabling partners in an era of artificial intelligence (AI) via edge computing and Splunk. This significant shift is driven by new AI and edge offerings (Cisco Unified Edge and Cisco IQ), which promise to provide partners with fast-tracked time to market for next-generation, Cisco-powered solutions. This move is a seismic change to how partners operate, shifting the focus from traditional hardware sales to integrated, outcome-focused solutions with AI at the center of it all. The networking giant further backed the evolution with substantial commitments in marketing spend and major investments in partner education and enablement to build expertise in AI and security. All this is set to be formalized in the upcoming Cisco 360 Partner Program, launching in 2026. We sat down with Technology Reseller News Senior Technology Reporter Moshe Beauford, who offered his expert perspective on the Cisco partner news.

Jay McBain is the Chief Analyst for Global Channels at Canalys, recognized worldwide as a leading voice on partnerships, ecosystems, and the future of go-to-market models. With 30 years of experience at IBM, Lenovo, Autotask, ChannelEyes, and Forrester, he's been named Channel Influencer of the Year and featured on dozens of top industry lists. A futurist and community leader, Jay has served on multiple CompTIA councils and advisory boards for CRN, Channel Partners, and Ziff Davis. He's a sought-after keynote speaker and blogger whose insights shape how technology companies build and scale their partner ecosystems. Resources:  Website: https://www.jaymcbain.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/omdia/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymcbain/

 In this UC Today interview, host Kieran Devlin speaks with Benny Matityahu, VP of Unified Communications & Collaboration at AudioCodes, and Roy Wizeman, Director of UCaaS Platform & Solutions at AudioCodes. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities facing channel partners as they navigate a fast-changing market defined by multi-UCaaS adoption, voice connectivity complexities, and AI-driven value-added services.Channel partners today are balancing customer demand across multiple UCaaS platforms while also being asked to deliver more advanced services. In this discussion, Benny and Roy explain how AudioCodes' Live Platform is designed to simplify that journey, remove barriers to multi-UCaaS growth, and create space for innovation with AI.Watch to discover:Why channel partners are embracing multi-UCaaS strategies to meet customer demand for flexibility.How AudioCodes Live Platform streamlines voice connectivity, migration, and interoperability across vendors.Real-world examples of partners scaling recurring revenue by layering AI-powered services such as contact center, transcription, and meeting insights.Where the partner opportunity lies as UCaaS commoditises and value shifts toward AI-enabled solutions.Next Steps:

In this episode of UC Today, host Kieran Devlin sits down with Steve Forcum, Director of Marketing and Program Management at SIPPIO, to explore how the company is helping UC channel partners navigate today's evolving market. As economic uncertainty grows and traditional UC sales slow, SIPPIO offers a compelling blueprint for partners to drive growth, tap into new verticals, and simplify voice deployments across Microsoft Teams and Zoom. If you're a UC channel partner looking to stay ahead, this is one conversation you don't want to miss.What if you could turn Teams or Zoom into a seamless calling experience without complex integrations or added costs? In this insightful video, Steve Forcum reveals how SIPPIO empowers channel partners with the tools, knowledge, and flexibility to do just that—while scaling faster and smarter.

"PC-as-a-Service makes fast, secure deployments possible without having to contract with a series of vendors for devices, connectivity, support, and replacement services — all with a competitive, predictable monthly payment," says John Tonthat, CRO of Cellhub, in a new Technology Reseller News podcast. Cellhub, a premier primary agent in T-Mobile's Channel Partner program, has teamed with Lifetime Endpoint Resources (EPR) to introduce a first-to-market PC-as-a-Service (PCaaS) program. Powered by T-Mobile's industry-leading 5G network and anchored by Lenovo® ThinkPad™ devices, the program is designed to give MSPs and solution providers a full-stack, fixed-price computing environment to deliver to end-users. Key features of the program include: Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 laptops – ready-to-go, preconfigured Built-in 5G connectivity – 75 to 125 GB/month for mobile-first access Embedded security agent and remote wipe – enterprise-grade protection 24/7/365 help desk support – powered by distributor D&H Distributing Advanced exchange – replacement devices shipped before the old ones return Fixed 36-month pricing – predictable IT costs in volatile markets Microsoft 365 + Copilot – AI-enhanced productivity Tonthat explains that Cellhub's mission is to represent and advance T-Mobile solutions, but this launch also positions the company as a systems integrator and lifecycle enabler for MSPs. By unifying connectivity, devices, support, and software in one bundle, PCaaS helps partners offer a premium 5G-enabled workplace while creating new streams of recurring revenue. The program is aimed squarely at small and mid-sized businesses, helping them gain enterprise-grade computing power without the burden of upfront capital expenditures. “Cellhub is thrilled to provide a superior, comprehensive 5G solution that can accelerate outcomes for small businesses, especially those who might not be able to maintain their own in-house IT teams,” Tonthat adds. Listen to the full conversation with John Tonthat of Cellhub on Technology Reseller News. Connect with Cellhub & John Tonthat John Tonthat on LinkedIn cellhub.com Cellhub on LinkedIn Cellhub, a premier primary agent in T-Mobile's Channel Partner program, is working with asset lifecycle management provider Lifetime EndPoint Resources to launch a first-to-market PC-as-a-Service (PCaaS) program for the channel, powered by T-Mobile. This end-to-end 5G connectivity solution provides high-performance Lenovo® ThinkPad™ computing devices connected by T-Mobile, the largest 5G network, bundling 24-hour help desk services, advanced exchange services, and Microsoft Office 365 and Copilot for the devices. Cellhub considers PCaaS a next-gen model for comprehensive device lifecycle management in the channel, positioned to drive the category forward. The PCaaS program is delivered over a 36-month term at a competitive (and tariff-resistant) monthly recurring fee as opposed to an up-front capital expenditure. PCaaS allows MSPs to offer a fully-managed, set-price computing bundle, complete with cutting edge 5G connectivity, Lenovo-branded devices,  “always-there” support, and expedited exchange of devices when issues arise. It's ideal for a variety of modern workplaces, especially companies whose employees are distributed among different locations, like visiting nurses services or attorneys' offices, translating to reliable, consistent connectivity with minimal downtime and long-term optimized computing.

Watch on YouTube.In this August edition of the Microsoft Teams Show, hosts Kristian McCann and and Tom Arbuthnot dissect some of the biggest Teams stories from the past month with the panel – from meetings on the move to AI that can see your screen.Mercedes Enables Teams Video Calls While DrivingTeams meetings are now available on the go – but is this the future of mobile collaboration or a serious safety concern?Teams Search Gets SmarterSQL-style search is on its way – finally! But will it actually help users find what they need, or just add more complexity?Threaded Conversations: Teams Borrows from Slack (Again)Another Slack-like feature arrives – is this improving the experience or just Microsoft playing catch-up?SharePoint Servers Under AttackA major breach raises big questions for on-premises customers – and for Teams, which is tightly integrated with SharePoint.Copilot Vision AI Can Now See Your ScreenMicrosoft's AI assistant just got a new set of eyes – but is this a game-changer or a privacy nightmare in the making?Plus, we're joined by special guest Robbie Warwick, UCaaS & CCaaS Transformation Leader at Accenture Song, who shares insights from his 20-year career — including leading a massive Teams transformation at the UK Home Office.Hosted by the UC Today editorial team – tune in for the latest Microsoft Teams updates, expert takes, and real-world insights.Let us know in the comments which stood out to you the most!Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group. 

Watch on YouTube.In this July 2025 edition of the Microsoft Teams News Show, co-hosts Rob Scott and Kristian McCann of UC Today are joined by Tom Arbuthnot (Empowering.Cloud) and an expert panel featuring Kevin Kieller, Ryan Herbst, and Josh Blalock. Together, they unpack a transformative month for Microsoft Teams, from sweeping layoffs to rapid Copilot deployment and rising data sovereignty concerns.Microsoft enters its new fiscal year with bold moves—cutting roles, re-aligning priorities, and pushing harder on AI. Tom Arbuthnot details the internal shakeups and how they're tied to the company's CoPilot-first vision. One of the biggest headlines? Barclays Bank's rollout of 100,000 M365 Copilot licenses—one of the largest deployments to date.The panel also dissects the end of Teams Classic, enhanced tools for IT pros, and the strategic launch of real-time voice Copilot across platforms. Meanwhile, Europe's pushback on data sovereignty, including a German municipality's exit from Teams, hints at larger geopolitical tensions in cloud tech. It's an unmissable update filled with practical takeaways and expert insights.Discussion Highlights:Microsoft's FY25 kickoff: Layoffs, new roles, and renewed focus on AI and agentic capabilitiesEnterprise AI at scale: Barclays rolls out 100,000 Copilot licenses and what that means for adoptionTeams Classic sunset, new IT health dashboards, and AI-powered Teams Room administrationEuropean data sovereignty challenges and Microsoft's “M365 Local” and sovereign cloud responsesNext Steps:For deeper dives into Copilot, agentic AI, and what's next in FY25, don't miss the Microsoft Partner Kickoff on July 22 and the Copilot Fireside Chat on July 31.Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group.

In this episode of JSA TV, Mike Padula, VP of Wholesale, Education & Partner Sales, and Lyle Parratt, Channel Manager at Conterra Networks, join us to discuss the newly launched Channel Partner Program. This program is designed to empower partners with exclusive resources, expert support, and opportunities to grow their business. Mike and Lyle also share how Conterra's comprehensive solutions help partners meet the changing needs of their customers, as well as how Conterra differentiates itself in the market. Finally, they offer insights into the future of the channel space and how Conterra is positioning itself to stay ahead of key trends, ensuring continued growth for its partners in the competitive telecom and tech industries.

Following his extensive travel throughout Asia, Inflect's CEO Mike Nguyen stopped by JSA TV at Channel Partners 2025 to discuss APAC digital infrastructure trends, his key takeaways from GTC in San Francisco and what's on the horizon for his digital infrastructure marketplace, www.inflect.com.#ITInfrastructure #ITStrategy #NetworkOptimizationABOUT INFLECT:Inflect's cutting-edge online tools and advisory services empower customers to quickly discover and procure digital infrastructure tailored to their specific business requirements. They enable a holistic, neutral view of the internet infrastructure industry so that professionals can get actionable data to make better, faster decisions.

Live from Channel Partners, Jackie Steinberg, DartPoints' Channel Chief, discusses DartPoints' expanding channel presence, the impact of AI on data center demand, and new opportunities for partners in an evolving digital ecosystem. Don't miss out on this exclusive interview uncovering DartPoints' strategic advancements.

JSA TV caught up with Warren Reyburn, COO of White Label Communications, to discuss their expansion into CPaaS, a new partnership with InfoBip, and a major brand refresh on the horizon.Stay tuned for updated messaging, a new website, and exciting innovations in CPaaS & CCaaS!

Great catching up with Dan Balderrama of Zenlayer on JSA TV about their channel-first approach and how they're empowering partners to expand globally. By simplifying global connectivity and integrating AI-powered networking and compute solutions, Zenlayer is helping businesses scale efficiently in high-growth markets.

In this episode of Technology Reseller News, Doug Green speaks with Evan Tomlin, CTO of Hyperion Partners, about how the company is enabling channel partners to step into the Internet of Things (IoT) and wireless monetization space through its powerful, white-label-ready VAST platform. Originally founded as a dominant Sprint partner focused on hardware and activation commissions, Hyperion has evolved into a multi-dimensional technology solutions company. Today, Hyperion supports large distributors, VARs, MSPs, and integrators through three business identities: partner enablement for wireless monetization, direct managed mobility and lifecycle services, and most notably, full-stack IoT solutions under the VAST brand. Tomlin explains that VAST is more than a product—it's a fully staffed, standalone business unit offering: Multi-carrier connectivity, including terrestrial wireless and Starlink, to provide seamless, location-adaptive service. Asset tracking with “slap-and-track” simplicity—no bells and whistles, just reliable dots on the map. Cellular networking, offering turnkey solutions that replace traditional ISP delays with instant, high-performance 5G WAN setups. “We're not asking partners to become engineers,” Tomlin notes. “We just need them to understand the basics and bring the relationship—they scratch the surface, and we do the rest.” VAST offers flexible partnership models including full white-label support and technical delivery. The platform plays particularly well in adjacent markets like retail, transportation, and SMBs where existing channel relationships can evolve into high-margin, sticky services. Hyperion's VAST platform isn't about upending a partner's current identity—it's about building on it. For those seeking new revenue streams and increased wallet share with existing customers, this is a ready-made opportunity that begins with a conversation. Learn more: https://hyperionpartners.net and https://vast.global

In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Dave and Joe O'Callaghan, co-founders of Vation, about their journey and experiences as a father-son duo in the tech industry. They discuss the importance of go-to-market strategies and what leaders can learn from the innovation ecosystem. Sponsored by Sandler, a sales training provider, the discussion delves into the significance of sales training, especially for first-line managers, and explores the evolving roles of technology leaders. Joe and Dave share insights on the challenges emerging tech companies face, the importance of execution and humility, and the growing role of AI and data security. They also highlight the importance of cold calling, the shift in sales training needs, and the evolving skill sets required in the tech industry.KEY TAKEAWAYSFirst Father-Son Duo: Episode features Dave and Joe O'Callaghan, co-founders of Vation Ventures, discussing their father-son dynamic. Business Focus: Highlight on go-to-market strategies from the innovation ecosystem. Importance of Sales Training: Emphasized by Sandler, focusing on training necessity due to promotions during COVID. AI and Security: Special focus on AI trends and the importance of secure AI. Channels and Relationships: The enduring importance of trusting relationships in the channel for effective advice and sales. Cold Calling: Seeing a resurgence, combined with high-quality, AI-supported research. Mentorship and Humility: The fundamental value of being humble, inquisitive, and learning from great mentors. Innovation and Execution: Balancing innovation with execution in today's rapidly evolving technology landscape.QUOTES"Innovation is hard. Innovation at scale is really, really hard." "Humility and inquisitiveness are key in driving innovation and leading teams." "The only person that likes to hear you talk about yourself is your mom." "Distributors can lean into orchestrating everything from Dataiku to Cisco Meraki for a comprehensive solution."Find out more about Dave & Joe O'Callaghan through the link/s below:Dave O'Callaghan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveo4/Joe O'Callaghan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeyocallaghan/This episode is sponsored by Sandler. Sandler is a world leader in innovative sales, leadership, and management training. For more than 50 years, Sandler has taught its distinctive, non-traditional selling system and highly effective sales training methodology, which has helped salespeople and sales managers take charge of the process.

Cloud Connections 2025 Podcast Interview with Peter Eisengrein, SVP of Service, Delivery & Operations at XTIUM ST. PETERSBURG, FL - A new managed services powerhouse has emerged. Speaking with Technology Reseller News at Cloud Connections 2025, Peter Eisengrein, Senior Vice President of Service, Delivery & Operations, introduced XTIUM—a new brand created from the merger of Evolve IP's MSP business with ATSG. “XTIUM is a fresh brand built from two strong companies,” said Eisengrein. “We've taken everything Evolve IP was known for—managed cloud, UCaaS, CCaaS, DaaS—and added a full suite of managed network, managed security, and managed operations services.” The merger, announced just weeks earlier at Channel Partners, significantly expands the portfolio available to XTIUM's channel partners. Of particular interest to the channel: Managed Detection and Response (MDR) security services, enterprise help desk outsourcing, and the ability to deliver turnkey network management alongside voice and compute. “We're hearing a lot of excitement around security and network services,” said Eisengrein. “It's what customers are asking for—and what the channel didn't always associate with us before.” At the conference, Eisengrein also joined two merger-focused sessions to share lessons from XTIUM's own experience. His message? M&A success takes time, careful planning, and clean financials. “You can't rush it. Lenders move at their own pace, and you need to be prepared—especially when it comes to audited books and integration plans.” For partners, the opportunity lies in XTIUM's ability to meet customers where they are. “Most buyers are only in market for one service at a time,” said Eisengrein. “The key for channel partners is being able to pivot. If it's not UC today, maybe it's security, or help desk, or compute. Now, we can support all of it.” XTIUM positions itself as a white-glove, customer-centric provider that integrates with, rather than displaces, enterprise IT. “We don't just offer services,” said Eisengrein. “We solve problems. That's our mission.” Learn more at: www.xtium.com

Ross from Houston faces a common challenge in channel sales: how do you create brand preference for your product when you're selling through distributors who carry multiple competing lines and competitors who undercut your price? His company builds industrial dust-collection equipment and ducting, but they don't sell direct—meaning they rely heavily on distributors, contractors, and engineers to choose their brand over cheaper alternatives. Below, you'll find key insights on how to drive more “pull-through” sales to your channel partners and convince every stakeholder—from designers to installers—to pick your product. Why Pull-Through in Channel Sales Matters When you sell through distribution, you lose a lot of direct control. Your product is on the shelf (literally or figuratively) alongside competitors, and the distributor or contractor can often steer buyers toward any brand they choose. Pull-through happens when the end user, contractor, or engineer specifically requests your brand—making your distributor the middleman who fulfills the preference you created. Educate & Collaborate With Specifiers Ross' sales team already does lunch-and-learn sessions with engineering firms. Those engineers create the specs that contractors must follow, so if your product is “baked in” early, that's a massive advantage later when the contractor goes shopping. But the real test comes when the contractor or installer sees a cheaper alternative on the distributor's line card. Key Steps: Educate engineers on the deeper value and functionality of your product, so they'll insist on it in their specs. Collaborate with contractors. Even if they're not the final decision-maker, they can heavily influence whether your premium line or a cheaper knockoff is chosen. Brand Preference vs. Price Objections The toughest hurdle for a premium brand is the classic price objection. If the competitor's line undercuts you, how do you prove your extra value? Unearth the Real Cost of Going Cheap. Show specifiers and end users the Total Cost of Ownership—that cheaper or less-robust solutions can lead to higher maintenance, safety issues, or inefficiencies down the line. Highlight Success Stories. Gather testimonials or case studies from buyers who saved time, boosted reliability, or lowered total cost of ownership by choosing your brand. Create Tools and Guides. Develop clear documentation or ROI calculators that help buyers see beyond sticker price—especially useful if the distributor's rep isn't fully equipped to present your value. Dealing with the Distributor as a Gatekeeper You can do all the contractor or engineer training you want, but if the distributor's inside salesperson steers a buyer to a cheaper product, you still lose. That's why building the distributor relationship is non-negotiable. Action Items: Train the Distributor's Sales Reps. Show them exactly how to pitch your brand's advantages, from installation ease to long-term reliability. Reward Them for Advocacy. If possible, offer spiffs or incentives when they successfully sell your line. In some cases, highlight how your product can reduce their support headaches and returns, making their life easier. Co-Sell on Big Deals. Bring major opportunities to the distributor, or volunteer to go on key calls together. When you help them close deals, they become more loyal to you. Get Proactive and Strategic One pitfall in channel sales is that your rep can become just a “help desk” for the distributor—always fixing problems instead of actively driving new deals. But a proactive approach can turn that support into a competitive edge: Offer On-Site or Virtual Coaching. Whenever the distributor or contractor hits a snag, your rep steps in, demonstrating expertise. This builds trust and brand loyalty. Balance Support with Hunting. While your reps should help, they also need time to create demand among engineers, contractors, and end users. If their entire day is spent resolving small issues, they'll miss bigger opportunities. Combine Marketing and Sales Efforts To truly differentiate your product, marketing must work hand-in-hand with sales. You need targeted content—white papers, case studies, videos, ROI calculators—that highlight your product's unique benefits. Ensure your sellers share these assets during lunch-and-learns, in prospecting emails, or at trade shows. Possible Tactics:  Webinars. Showcase how your product solves real problems more effectively than DIY or cheaper alternatives. Distributor Portal. Provide easily accessible resources (FAQ sheets, training modules) that help the distributor's reps pitch your product with confidence. Customer Spotlight Videos. Interview customers who switched from cheaper knockoffs to your premium brand—and never looked back. Putting It All Together Ultimately, it's about controlling the narrative and making sure every stakeholder sees the bigger picture. You've got to hammer home: “Sure, there's a cheaper widget over there. But ours wins on performance and total cost of ownership.” If you can get that message across in channel sales early—before anyone starts price shopping—then you'll have a far easier time at the final point of sale. Building pull-through demand in a channel sales environment requires a multi-pronged approach. You must: Educate so your product is specified from the start. Convince users that your brand is worth the investment and eliminates future headaches. Equip distributors with simple, persuasive messaging that helps them advocate for you over the competition. Demonstrate unwavering support and expertise whenever they need it. When done right, this synergy creates a ripple effect. Engineers specify your line, contractors request it by name, and distributors become your ambassadors. Follow this playbook consistently, and watch how quickly “we'll consider your product” turns into “that's the only product we'll consider.” If you're facing a sales or leadership problem and have a question for me, head over to to salesgravy.com/ask and we'll get you on the show.

Ross from Houston faces a common challenge in channel sales: how do you create brand preference for your product when you're selling through distributors who carry multiple competing lines and competitors who undercut your price? His company builds industrial dust-collection equipment and ducting, but they don't sell direct—meaning they rely heavily on distributors, contractors, and engineers to choose their brand over cheaper alternatives. Below, you'll find key insights on how to drive more “pull-through” sales to your channel partners and convince every stakeholder—from designers to installers—to pick your product. Why Pull-Through in Channel Sales Matters When you sell through distribution, you lose a lot of direct control. Your product is on the shelf (literally or figuratively) alongside competitors, and the distributor or contractor can often steer buyers toward any brand they choose. Pull-through happens when the end user, contractor, or engineer specifically requests your brand—making your distributor the middleman who fulfills the preference you created. Educate & Collaborate With Specifiers Ross' sales team already does lunch-and-learn sessions with engineering firms. Those engineers create the specs that contractors must follow, so if your product is “baked in” early, that's a massive advantage later when the contractor goes shopping. But the real test comes when the contractor or installer sees a cheaper alternative on the distributor's line card. Key Steps: Educate engineers on the deeper value and functionality of your product, so they'll insist on it in their specs. Collaborate with contractors. Even if they're not the final decision-maker, they can heavily influence whether your premium line or a cheaper knockoff is chosen. Brand Preference vs. Price Objections The toughest hurdle for a premium brand is the classic price objection. If the competitor's line undercuts you, how do you prove your extra value? Unearth the Real Cost of Going Cheap. Show specifiers and end users the Total Cost of Ownership—that cheaper or less-robust solutions can lead to higher maintenance, safety issues, or inefficiencies down the line. Highlight Success Stories. Gather testimonials or case studies from buyers who saved time, boosted reliability, or lowered total cost of ownership by choosing your brand. Create Tools and Guides. Develop clear documentation or ROI calculators that help buyers see beyond sticker price—especially useful if the distributor's rep isn't fully equipped to present your value. Dealing with the Distributor as a Gatekeeper You can do all the contractor or engineer training you want, but if the distributor's inside salesperson steers a buyer to a cheaper product, you still lose. That's why building the distributor relationship is non-negotiable. Action Items: Train the Distributor's Sales Reps. Show them exactly how to pitch your brand's advantages, from installation ease to long-term reliability. Reward Them for Advocacy. If possible, offer spiffs or incentives when they successfully sell your line. In some cases, highlight how your product can reduce their support headaches and returns, making their life easier. Co-Sell on Big Deals. Bring major opportunities to the distributor, or volunteer to go on key calls together. When you help them close deals, they become more loyal to you. Get Proactive and Strategic One pitfall in channel sales is that your rep can become just a “help desk” for the distributor—always fixing problems instead of actively driving new deals. But a proactive approach can turn that support into a competitive edge: Offer On-Site or Virtual Coaching. Whenever the distributor or contractor hits a snag, your rep steps in, demonstrating expertise. This builds trust and brand loyalty. Balance Support with Hunting. While your reps should help,