Podcasts about gorspa

In Episode 76 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy shares observations on the changing retail IT channel which was evident at RetailNOW 2022 in Orlando. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire, which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 75 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Karen Licker, the Director of Marketing for the United States and Canada for EVO Payments, and Dorian Sandi, the Marketing Director for RSPA VAR member OSS Data, preview their RetailNOW 2022 session “RetailNOW Live Lab: Social Media Strategies that Work.” Licker, Sandi, and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss what VARs and ISVs need to understand before they select social media channels, how to best allocate labor for social media activities, and outcomes social media can generate for IT solution providers. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Register today for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 74 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Alejandro Swaby, the Director of Sales for RSPA VAR member Cervion Systems, previews his RetailNOW 2022 panel “Organically Grown Leadership.” Swaby and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss leadership from several angles including how metrics accelerate leadership development and why initiative is a required character trait for successful future leaders. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Register today for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 73 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Kirsten Trusko, CEO and Co-Founder of RSPA member Emerging Markets Coalition (EMC), previews her RetailNOW 2022 panel “What's a ‘Cashless ATM'? And Other Alternative Payment Methods in Cannabis.” Trusko and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss “good guys” and “bad guys” in cannabis payments, opportunities and pitfalls with cashless ATMs, and recommended actions for VARs who are interested in the cannabis vertical. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Register today for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 72 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Dan Brattland, President and Chair of RSPA member COCARD Marketing Group, previews his RetailNOW 2022 presentation “VAR and ISV Sales and Customer Strategies for the New Normal.” Brattland and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss sales myths, sales best practices, and why growth-oriented solution providers need to embrace delegation and sales training. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Register today for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 71 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Brian Booth, founder and CEO of software developer Enroll & Pay, previews his RetailNOW 2022 presentation “Innovating for the Payments Space: An ISV's Perspective.” Booth and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss how to establish a culture of innovation, the role of AI in product development, and mistakes ISVs make with their VAR partnerships. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Registration is now open for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 70 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy talks with Tracey Lande, Vice President of Strategy and Growth/Business Development Lead at VAULT, about her unconventional – and highly successful – employee recruiting strategies. Lande shares how her personal journey back to the retail IT channel is influencing her hiring plans at VAULT, the importance of personalizing open positions and creating outcome-based job descriptions, and how to leverage your network and social media to build a strong team fast. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Registration is now open for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 69 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy sits down with Mike Monocello, the co-founder of DevPro Journal and XaaS Journal, about his perspective on the ever-changing retail technology channel – both the past 15 years and what's ahead. Monocello and Roddy also break down an RSPA-exclusive chart analyzing current and emerging business models in the retail IT channel including VARs, ISVs, ISOs, PayFacs, and DISDs (Direct Independent Software Developers).   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.   Registration is now open for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow   The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 68 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy sits down with Paul Griffiths and Stephen Bergeron of apg (formerly APG Cash Drawer) to discuss rebranding lessons for VARs, ISVs, and vendors in the retail technology channel. They discuss rebranding principles and processes, how to best engage employees and customers during this journey, and why resellers with “cash register” in their company name are likely candidates for a rebrand of their own. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.  Registration is now open for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow  The RSPA is North America's largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors, and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis verticals. The mission of the RSPA is to accelerate the success of its members in the retail technology ecosystem by providing knowledge and connections. The organization offers education, hotlines for legal, security, sales, and business advice, industry advocacy, and discounts on other services to assist members with becoming and remaining successful. RSPA is most well-known for its signature events, RetailNOW and Inspire which provide face-to-face learning and networking opportunities. Learn more by visiting www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 67 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Hunter Allen of VAR Cervion Systems, Tom Bronson of industry consultant Mastery Partners, and the RSPA's Jim Roddy analyze the 2022 RSPA Retail IT Channel KPI Study. Among the topics discussed are the recent success of ISV/VAR hybrids, the as-a-Service recurring revenue business model's continued acceptance, expected mergers and acquisitions, and the state of today's retail IT channel. To obtain your copy of this year's RSPA Retail IT Channel KPI Study, follow this link: 2022 RSPA Retail IT Channel KPI Study “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Registration is now open for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow

In Episode 66 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy sits down with Mark Fraker, CTO of RSPA distributor member BlueStar, to explore VAR opportunities with electric vehicle charging stations. Roddy and Fraker discuss the technologies, target market, and reseller recurring revenue opportunities related to EVCSaaS – Electric Vehicle Charging Stations-as-a-Service. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. Registration is now open for RetailNOW 2022, the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. RetailNOW will have everything you've come to expect from the RSPA – plus several new features including Niche & Startup Alley in the expo hall, the first-ever ISV Community Networking Reception, six education tracks (Executive Education, Security & Legal, NextGen Technology, Sales & Customer Service, Cannabis, plus a new ISV Education Track), and more. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow

In Episode 65 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy talks with Randy Gunter, one of the principals at VAR Spark Solutions Group, and Jeff Sanders, the President of VAR Southwest Point of Sale, about customer service best practices for retail technology solution providers. Among the topics discussed are reactive and proactive customer communication strategies, the importance of an annual customer survey, how to win over an upset customer, and the biggest customer service mistake many resellers make.   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.   If you like this episode, you'll love the courses offered at RetailNOW 2022 – the retail technology channel's #1 trade show, education conference, and networking event! Join RSPA and retail IT channel leaders live and in-person July 24-26 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando. If you're serious about the retail IT channel, you have to attend RetailNOW 2022. It's Where the Industry Meets! Learn more and register today: www.GoRSPA.org/retailnow

In Episode 64 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy interviews Rohan Mani, the Senior Vice President of Business Development at Shift4, about lucrative growth strategies for retail IT VARs. Among the topics they tackle are achieving trusted advisor status in a chosen niche, adding new products and services, outspending the competition on marketing, and ramping up an outbound salesforce. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 63 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy talks with Mike Canevaro, Senior Vice President at ISV Fobi, about how retail IT solution providers can embrace – and generate recurring revenue from – analytics, AI, and IoT. Roddy and Canevaro also discuss how Fobi will use its technology as the official Health and Safety Technology Provider for RSPA Inspire 2022. Fobi will help RSPA provide vaccination and COVID testing verification for the event (follow this link for more details). RSPA Inspire, the retail IT channel's premiere leadership conference, is scheduled for Jan. 23-26 at the Wyndham Grand resort in Clearwater Beach, FL. Mornings include breakfast followed by executive-focused educational presentations, group workshops, and panel discussions. Afternoons and evenings feature world-class networking through elite excursions away from the resort and relaxing events at the resort. For more information on Inspire, follow this link: www.gorspa.org/inspire “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 62 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy talks with labor technology experts Audrey Hogan of ISV TimeForge and Barb Trushenski and Jeff Zimmerman of VAR North Country Business Products about how VARs are helping merchants solve their labor crisis. They discuss their joint report on grocery labor market trends, how to best start a labor tech conversation with a merchant, and which technologies are helping merchants improve their labor situation. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

Episode 61 of “The Trusted Advisor” features the wildly popular “Battle of the Channel Stars” format, an industry-focused conversation in a fun and competitive framework. The RSPA's Jim Roddy talks with Steve Silberman of VAR MPI POS and Stacy Carrillo of North American Bancard about the six key skills every channel leader needs: Sales/business development Customer service Troubleshooting Teamwork Lifelong learner Servant leadership “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 60 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy connects with Jeff Brown, host of the world-renowned Read To Lead podcast and co-author of the new book Read to Lead: The Simple Habit That Expands Your Influence and Boosts Your Career. Brown discusses which practices will encourage your team to read more, effective tactics for sustaining that development, where to find the books your team will want to read, and more. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 59 of “The Trusted Advisor,” RSPA Legal Counsel Atty. Jill Miller talks with the RSPA's Jim Roddy about compliance best practices for VARs and ISVs. Miller discusses common SMB compliance blind spots, steps solution providers should take to ensure they are compliant with the latest regulations, and more. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. Included in EXCELerate are these courses: Preventing Workplace Harassment and Discrimination Preventing Workplace Harassment and Discrimination for Supervisors For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 58 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy connects with John Bachanov, CEO of cannabis ISV Appspensary, and Oscar Alvidrez, Business Development Manager for Custom America, about selling technology to cannabis dispensaries. They discuss key differences between selling to dispensaries vs. traditional retailers, the best contact sources, how to earn a first meeting with the dispensary decision maker, and where the cannabis channel is heading. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. Included in EXCELerate are courses on: Entering the Cannabis Vertical – Where Should VARs Start? 7 Elements of a Successful Cannabis VAR Mistakes VARs Can't Afford to Make in the Cannabis Market and more For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 57 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy sits down with Fredrik Carlegren, Vice President of Global Marketing for Toshiba, and Blake Gillum, General Manager of VAR/ISV hybrid DCR POS Solutions, to discuss self-service trends and how solution providers should adapt. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. Included in EXCELerate are courses on: Retooling for Revitalization in Restaurants and Retail The Blurring of the Lines Between Stores and DCs Simplify and Streamline Payment Acceptance and more For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

Episode 56 of “The Trusted Advisor” features 2021 RSPA W2W Leaders of the Year Nell Alverson, the Director of Channel Marketing at ScanSource, and Breanna Brown, Global Marketing Manager for APG. Alverson, Brown, and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss opportunities and challenges for women in today's channel, actions both men and women can take to avoid bias and promote inclusion, and changes the retail IT industry should embrace to accelerate progress. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. Included in EXCELerate are courses on: Mentoring Leadership development Self-development and more For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 55 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy sits down with Mark Shelhart, the Director of Digital Forensics and Incident Response at Foregenix, and RSPA Security Advisor Nathan Sweaney to discuss security trends in the retail IT channel and what VARs and ISVs should expect in 2022.   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.   If you liked this episode of the pod, you'll love courses offered through RSPA Academy EXCELerate, the next generation of education for the retail IT channel. This online system offers continuous learning, training, and development opportunities anytime, anywhere, from any device. Included in EXCELerate are courses on: Malware and ransomware Passwords Email phishing Zero Trust and more For more information on RSPA Academy EXCELerate, visit learn.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 54 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy connects with David Gosman of HP, Michel Sirois of BlueStar Canada, and Jeremy Julian of VAR/ISV CBS NorthStar to analyze “What Lies Ahead for the Retail IT Channel?”   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

Episode 53 of “The Trusted Advisor” features the wildly popular “Battle of the Channel Stars” format, an industry-focused conversation in a fun and competitive framework. The RSPA's Jim Roddy talks with Kelli Stewart and Jim Stewart of VAR POS.com about strategies and tactics for VARs to grow their sales. Among the topics discussed are investing in activities that deliver higher value, ramping up an outbound sales force, and entering new markets by creating micro niches inside the current market you serve.   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for retail IT resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 52 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA's Jim Roddy shares several VAR and ISV best practices including five simple steps to alleviate your customers' phone frustrations and one giant step that will change the trajectory of your business. Roddy says, “As the leader of an organization, you need to take a step back from your day-to-day tasks and frequently ask yourself why you do what you do.”   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 51 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Keith Sampson, the National Sales Director for North American Bancard, previews his RetailNOW 2021 breakout session “Sell on Price, Lose on Price – Don't be a Loser!” Sampson and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss how to capture the attention of merchants, which tools will help you sell value over cost, and why VARs and ISVs should invest time attending shows, especially in 2021.   Scheduled for July 25-27 at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, RetailNOW 2021 will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Sales & Marketing, Customer Service, Security, Next Gen Technologies, and Cannabis. For more information on RetailNOW or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 50 of “The Trusted Advisor,” RSPA Security Advisor Nathan Sweaney previews the security education track for RetailNOW 2021. Sweaney and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss balancing business needs with security preferences, which threats and technologies will remain relevant after COVID, and why POS solution providers should investigate the Zero Trust security model.   Scheduled for July 25-27 at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, RetailNOW 2021 will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Sales & Marketing, Customer Service, Security, Next Gen Technologies, and Cannabis. For more information on RetailNOW or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 49 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Danny Gold, co-founder and CEO of ZolTrain, previews his RetailNOW 2021 panel “Everything You Need to Know About Cannatech in 45 Minutes.” Gold and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss nuances of the cannabis market, how VARs should market themselves to dispensary owners, and common reseller mistakes in this niche market.   Scheduled for July 25-27 at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, RetailNOW 2021 will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Sales & Marketing, Customer Service, Security, Next Gen Technologies, and Cannabis. For more information on RetailNOW or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 48 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Chelsey Paulson, COO, EOS Implementer, and Culture Strategist for Keystone Group International, previews her RetailNOW 2021 presentation “Best Practices for Gaining Real Traction Toward Your Goals and Business Growth.” Paulson and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss how operating systems benefit SMBs, why so many business owners struggle to operationalize their orgs, and why business leaders need to “stop mowing dandelions.”   Scheduled for July 25-27 at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, RetailNOW 2021 will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Sales & Marketing, Customer Service, Security, Next Gen Technologies, and Cannabis. For more information on RetailNOW or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 47 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Dan Jablons, owner of technology consultant Retail Smart Guys, previews his RetailNOW 2021 presentation “Learn the Business Language of Retail.” Jablons and the RSPA's Jim Roddy discuss retail VAR communication shortfalls, how to engage in more meaningful conversations with prospects and customers, and the importance of inspiring your team to serve as trusted advisors.   Scheduled for July 25-27 at the Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, RetailNOW 2021 will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Sales & Marketing, Customer Service, Security, Next Gen Technologies, and Cannabis. For more information on RetailNOW or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 46 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy talks retail technology and customer experience trends with two industry experts: Nicole Leinbach Reyhle, the Founder and Publisher of Retail Minded and author of Retail 101: The Guide to Managing and Marketing Your Retail Business, and Stacey Widlitz, President of equity research firm SW Retail Advisors and for 10 years a retail analyst for CNBC.   Reyhle, Widlitz, and Roddy – all named Retail Industry Top 100 Influencers by RETHINK Retail – discuss the latest tech innovations SMB retailers should embrace, AI (artificial intelligence) applications for smaller retailers, customer experience technologies SMBs can afford, and if the current labor shortage in retail is a short-term disruption or a broader trend.   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 45 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with association General Counsel Atty. Jill Miller about current business and legal issues in the retail IT channel. Among the topics discussed are next steps for solution providers related to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, how VAR and ISV executives should approach staff travel and flexible work schedules, and best practices for creating your data privacy policy.   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 44 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy talks with Hussain Darsi, CEO of VAR Loyalty Sense in Calgary, and Shannon Moyes, Business Development Manager for software developer Volante Systems in Toronto, about how their organizations are moving forward during Canada’s COVID lockdowns. Among the topics discussed are best practices for maintaining company culture in a restrictive environment and impactful sales/marketing innovations for VARs and ISVs.   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is an award-winning content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 43 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy explores the fast-growing cannabis market with Dan King, Owner and President of New West Technologies/GreenForcePOS, and Stephen Bergeron, VP of Sales and Marketing in North America for APG Cash Drawer. Among the topics discussed are why VARs should jump into this market before the payment processing stampede, how to initially engage in the cannabis vertical, and which cannatech products and services generate the most sales for resellers.   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

Episode 42 of “The Trusted Advisor” features the second-ever “Battle of the Channel Stars,” an industry-focused conversation in a fun and competitive framework. The RSPA’s Jim Roddy talks with Jules Curs, the Director of Operations at VAR Qlaborate, and Sean Buckley, the Retail Partnerships Lead at Shopify about accountability. Among the topics discussed are how self-accountability is foundational to organizational health, how obviating helps your team stay on track, and how conducting a candid failure analysis helps you avoid repeat mistakes.   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: http://www.gorspa.org/retailnow   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 41 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Josh Wintoniak of Auto-Star Compusystems Software, Hunter Allen of VAR Cervion Systems, and the RSPA’s Jim Roddy analyze the 2021 RSPA POS Channel KPI Study. Among the topics discussed are the rise – and sales struggles – of ISV/VAR hybrids, an expected increase in channel M&A activity, the continued shift to the as-a-Service recurring revenue business model, and why VARs and ISVs keep missing out on marketing opportunities.   To obtain your copy of the RSPA POS Channel KPI Study, follow this link: 2021 RSPA POS Channel KPI Study   For more information on RetailNOW, July 25-27 in Nashville, or to register for “Where The Industry Meets,” follow this link: www.GoRSPA.org/RetailNOW   “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 40 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy takes a deep dive into the fast-growing cannabis market with Dave Albert, president of VAR Retail Control Systems, and Duane Roebuck, Sr. Channel Manager of Retail and IoT at distributor BlueStar. Among the topics discussed are recent market changes affecting VARs and ISVs, opportunities for retail IT resellers in this space, and steps solution providers should take now to position their business for the future. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 39 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Cort Ouzts, the CEO of POS Nation, and Will Atkinson, formerly the President of CAP Software and now POS Nation’s Director of Channel Sales. They discuss POS Nation’s VAR-to-ISV transition and acquisition of CAP Software plus engage in a wide-ranging conversation about navigating the challenges retail IT VARs and ISVs face today. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

Episode 38 of “The Trusted Advisor” features the first-ever “Battle of the Channel Stars,” an industry-focused conversation in a fun and competitive framework. The RSPA’s Jim Roddy talks with Rick Feuling of VAR/ISV hybrid RITE Enterprises/Cloud Retailer and veteran channel consultant Bruce Mann, best known for his years supporting CRS resellers, about what SMBs can learn from well-run sports teams.Among the topics discussed are employee recruiting, the importance of systems, accountability through public transparency, and why you should establish a culture of resilience. This episode is based on the video 10 Reasons Sports Teams Are Better Run Than Most Businesses by Rick Crossland. Crossland’s reasons are:Talent DevelopmentCoachingRecruitingPlaybookPracticeExecutionAccountabilityToughness & ResilienceDisciplineScorekeeping“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 37 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy takes a deep dive into “The Ultimate Guide to QBRs for VARs” with Jeremy Julian of VAR/ISV hybrid CBS NorthStar. Jim and Jeremy walk through each slide of the new guide, discuss details behind the best practices, and answer QBR-related questions from RSPA reseller members. The Ultimate Guide to QBRs for VARs is available exclusively to RSPA members and can be accessed through the RSPA website following the link below. For member log-in details or for information on RSPA membership, email Membership@GoRSPA.org.The Ultimate Guide to QBRs for VARs “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to accelerate the success of today’s and tomorrow’s leaders in the retail IT industry. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 36 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with George Muchae, Principal and Vice President of Business Development for VAR/ISV New West Technologies, and Chris Duffy, the Director of Distribution Sales for Star Micronics. Among the topics discussed are using social media to advance sales, how to consistently generate leads and referrals, and sales/marketing changes to expect in 2021 and beyond. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 35 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy goes in-depth with Brady Nash, the owner and CEO of BNG Team, a technology solution provider headquartered in Fargo, ND, and the creator of The Accidental Entrepreneur video series. Jim and Brady discuss shaping your organization to take advantage of emerging trends, scaling your business while staying true to why you started your company, and key questions business leaders need to ask themselves frequently. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. This special episode is sponsored by Shift4. For more information, visit www.shift4resellers.com.

In Episode 34 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Brianna Moriarty of Star Micronics guest hosts a special RSPA NextGEN Community edition of the pod. Discussing “What Technologies and Solutions Will Outlast the Pandemic?” are Matthew Shaw, Product Solutions Specialist at VAR Postec; Linda Ebrahimian, Marketing Manager at ISV Cyberlink; Justin Zeigler, Director of Product Strategy & Marketing at Datacap; and Andrew Faulkner, owner & CEO of VAR Staley Technologies. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. This special episode is sponsored by BlueStar. For more information, visit www.bluestarinc.com.

In Episode 33 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy interviews Epson Product Manager Aileen Maldonado and Datacap Business Development Manager George Hudock about the ISV of the future. Among the topics discussed are effective ISV go-to-market strategies, which channel partnerships ISVs should focus on, steps to build and maintain a profitable reseller program, and the impact of next-generation executives on the retail IT channel. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 32 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Michelle MacKeith, Vice President of VAR Pinnacle Hospitality, and Suzanne Davis, the Senior Vice President of Business Development for Shift4, to discuss the path to reseller success in 2021 and beyond. Among the topics explored are effective go-to-market strategies, new customer service approaches, and the importance of remaining agile as merchants and market forces rapidly change. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 31 of “The Trusted Advisor,” RSPA Legal Counsel Jill Miller returns to the pod to talk with host Jim Roddy. Miller shares today’s biggest legal challenges facing VARs and ISVs, insights into new data privacy regulations, and which payment-related legal issues should be top-of-mind for solution providers in 2021. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. This special episode is sponsored by ScanSource. For more information, visit www.ScanSource.com.

In Episode 30 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy interviews Kevin Spencer, the President at VAR Rod Plus Solutions, about growing his company despite incredible adversity in 2020. Spencer shares how he’s managed his team during his seven months out of the country, best practices for entering a new geography, and how to balance growth while caring for your current customers. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org. This special episode is sponsored by Heartland. To become a Heartland dealer, go to www.heartland.us/become-a-dealer/rspa.

In Episode 29 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy interviews Mark Fraker, the Vice President of Marketing for RSPA distributor member BlueStar, about software developer keys to success in the retail IT channel. Fraker discusses where direct ISVs fit in our channel, steps they can take to build partnerships with resellers, and how internal systems are necessary for ISVs to sustain success long-term.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 28 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Kyle DeWitt, ScanSource’s Vice President of Technical Services, and Brenda McCurry, Vice President of Merchandising for ScanSource POS and Barcode. DeWitt and McCurry discuss the retail IT Total Solution Provider technology stack, how to transition to complete offerings without wrecking your cash flow, and effective tactics for marketing and selling your total solution.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 27 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Bill Fultz, the Vice President of POS for Heartland POS. Fultz shares his insights on reseller technology innovations, effective new go-to-market strategies for VARs, and how to create a culture of innovation in your organization. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 26 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Vanessa Foden, Intel’s Head of Global Strategy and New Innovation for Retail, Banking, Hospitality and Education, previews the RSPA Academy Symposium panel “Retail Trends and New Technologies Emerging in 2020, Post-COVID.” Among the technologies Foden and the RSPA’s Jim Roddy discuss are online ordering, IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), and cloud technology.Scheduled for Aug. 26-27, 2020, the RSPA Academy Education Online Symposium will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Marketing, Sales, Customer Experience, Security, and Next Gen Technologies. To register, go to www.GoRSPA.org/education-symposium.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 25 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Keith Sampson, the National Sales Director for North American Bancard, shares highlights from his RSPA Academy Symposium talk “Enabling Customer Success with Programs Outside the Surcharge Challenge.” Sampson and the RSPA’s Jim Roddy also discuss social media best practices (spoiler alert: content is king) and how B2B marketers should adapt when their in-person industry events are cancelled.Scheduled for Aug. 26-27, 2020, the RSPA Academy Education Online Symposium will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Marketing, Sales, Customer Experience, Security, and Next Gen Technologies. To register, go to www.GoRSPA.org/education-symposium.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 24 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Jeremy Julian, the COO of VAR/ISV hybrid CBS NorthStar, previews the RSPA Academy Symposium industry expert panel “Pivoting After COVID-19.” Julian and the RSPA’s Jim Roddy talk through the biggest challenges for resellers and software developers as they move forward, mistakes to avoid during the transition, and how to lead during this crisis.Scheduled for Aug. 26-27, 2020, the RSPA Academy Education Online Symposium will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Marketing, Sales, Customer Experience, Security, and Next Gen Technologies. To register, go to www.GoRSPA.org/education-symposium.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 23 of “The Trusted Advisor,” Tom Bronson, the President and CEO of business consultant Mastery Partners, previews his RSPA Academy Symposium presentation “Transform your Marketing with Story Brand.” Bronson and the RSPA’s Jim Roddy discuss the story brand concept, what first steps VARs and ISVs should take to transform their story brand, and how solution providers can maximize their business value.Scheduled for Aug. 26-27, 2020, the RSPA Academy Education Online Symposium will feature 20+ education sessions across six tracks: VAR & ISV Executive Education, Marketing, Sales, Customer Experience, Security, and Next Gen Technologies. To register, go to www.GoRSPA.org/education-symposium.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

Karl talked with Jim Roddy this week on the topic of the Retail IT Channel. Jim Roddy is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Retail Solutions Providers Association, and he does not fall short in suggestions on how to support your clients in the restaurant, retail, and similar spaces during COVID-19. About Jim: Jim Roddy is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA). He has been active in the channel since 1998, including 11 years as the President of Business Solutions Magazine, six years as an RSPA board member, one term as RSPA Chairman of the Board, and several years as a business coach for VARs, ISVs, and MSPs. Jim is regularly requested to speak at industry conferences and he is author of Hire Like You Just Beat Cancer. Links:  www.GoRSPA.org  https://twitter.com/Jim_Roddy  https://www.linkedin.com/in/JimRoddy1/ 

In Episode 22 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Harry Brelsford, the founder of 420MSP, a community for cannabis managed service providers. On the pod, Brelsford details the biggest challenges and opportunities for POS VARs and ISVs in this vertical, how traditional retail IT solution providers can partner with cannabis MSPs, and the best resources for cannabis vertical knowledge.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 21 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy talks with Dan Jablons, owner of the technology consultant group Retail Smart Guys. Jablons has perhaps the most interesting resume in the retail IT channel: he’s worked with major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Jimmy Choo, and Oakley, along with many SMB retailers, plus he’s an actor, writer, director, and musician. Among Jablons’ credits are the HBO hit Curb Your Enthusiasm, over 20 films, and TV commercials for Facebook, Little Caesars, Go To Meeting, Samsung, and more. On the pod, Jablons explains how he balances acting with running a solution provider, the importance of solving problems vs. only offering technology, and how open-to-buy services are core to the Retail Smart Guys’ success.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 20 of “The Trusted Advisor,” we meet Atty. Jill Miller, the RSPA’s new General Counsel. Miller talks one-on-one with the RSPA’s Jim Roddy about her sales and payments background, her early observations of the RSPA community, and the importance of SMBs receiving practical, business-focused legal advice.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 19 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy interviews Dave Kasinetz, Vice President of Sales at reseller Advanced Hospitality Systems, and Vaughan Fergusson, founder of retail ISV Vend, about the future of the retail and restaurant verticals after the COVID-19 crisis. Among the topics discussed are anticipated short- and long-term changes in both markets, pandemic-related innovations that are expected to become permanent, and key technologies retail and restaurant VARs should embrace over the next 12 months.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 18 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Jeff Riley, CEO of ISV Retail Management Hero, and Jami Interdonato, President of restaurant ISV RPOWER POS, about the future of software developers in the point of sale channel. Among the topics discussed are today’s biggest challenges for software developers, the emerging role of direct ISVs, and predictions about near-term ISV acquisitions.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 17 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Canadian VARs Paul Leduc, President of Globe POS Systems in Brampton, ON; Gord Doerksen, President and CEO of Ideal POS in Winnipeg, MB; and Tim Shein, President of King Business Services in Richmond, BC. Among the topics discussed are utilizing Canadian government resources created to help businesses through the COVID-19 crisis, adjusting your sales and service tactics during the pandemic, and crafting a business strategy during uncertain times.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

This special episode of “The Trusted Advisor” features a fourth Retail IT Community Roundtable on COVID-19 hosted by the RSPA. VARs, ISVs, vendors, and distributors in the restaurant, retail, and grocery verticals share strategies and tactics for best dealing with this crisis. Among the roundtable topics members discuss are pursuing new federal government resources through programs such as the CARES Act and PPP (Paycheck Protection Program), adjusting sales/marketing approaches during the COVID-19 crisis, and adapting staffing levels and service tactics during this pandemic.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

This special episode of “The Trusted Advisor” features a third Retail IT Community Roundtable on COVID-19 hosted by the RSPA. VARs, ISVs, vendors, and distributors in the restaurant, retail, and grocery verticals share strategies and tactics for best dealing with this crisis. Among the roundtable topics are firsthand experiences applying for a PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) loan, providing online ordering and selling more tablets to help distressed restaurants, and counseling your merchants to reshape their business for a post-COVID world.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

This special episode of “The Trusted Advisor” features a second Retail IT Community Roundtable discussion on COVID-19 hosted by the RSPA. VARs, ISVs, vendors, and distributors in the restaurant, retail, and grocery verticals share strategies and tactics for best dealing with this crisis. Among the topics discussed are protecting your employees and merchants, appropriately introducing new products like e-commerce solutions, adjusting to an extreme reduction in credit card residuals, helping your merchants keep their equipment clean, and enabling employees to work from home.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

This special episode of “The Trusted Advisor” features a Retail IT Community Roundtable discussion on COVID-19 hosted by the RSPA. VARs, ISVs, vendors, and distributors in the restaurant, retail, and grocery verticals share ideas on strategies and tactics for best dealing with this crisis. Among the topics discussed are loans and grants for solution providers, the necessity of frequent communication, managing your finances during a period of extreme uncertainty, and examples of consulting with merchants on adapting their strategy, adopting online ordering, and utilizing social media to generate sales.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 12 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Blake Gillum, General Manager of DCR, and Thomas Greenman, Sales Manager at Skurla’s POS Solutions, to discuss their leadership transition journeys at their reseller organizations. Among the topics explored are the importance of internal systems and standards to ensure an effective transition, the biggest challenges new leaders face, and the importance of staying true to the company culture.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 11 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy connects with Dave Albert, the founder and President of VAR Retail Control Systems; Brian Meyer, co-founder of Solvent; and Duane Roebuck, Sr. Channel Manager of Retail and IoT at BlueStar, about VAR and ISV opportunities – and challenges – in the emerging cannabis and CBD vertical. Among the topics discussed are resources VARs and ISVs should utilize to learn more about this market, specific steps required to enter this vertical, expected roadblocks during this journey, and lessons learned firsthand by our guests.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

Episode 10 of “The Trusted Advisor” features members of the RSPA W2W (Women to Women) Community discussing Work/Life Balance. Guest moderator Brianna Moriarty of Star Micronics sits down with guests Brenda McCurry of ScanSource, Deanna Joseph of BlueStar, and Michelle Johnson of VAR Pinnacle Hospitality Systems. Among the best practices they share are understanding it’s okay to wait on non-urgent tasks, putting yourself as a priority, eating and thinking healthy, squeezing in visits with friends during work travel, and having an “attitude of gratitude.”“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 9 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Kevin McGrath, co-owner of restaurant and retail VAR Value Systems, and Mic McGrath (no relation), Sr. Partnership Manager at Worldpay, to discuss how they provide stellar personal customer service. Among the topics discussed are their customer service philosophies, technology that helps keep customer service high, how to execute Commercial Teaching, and why you should strive to be “trusted and loved” by your customers.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 8 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy interviews Global Business Technologies CEO Danny Hernandez and POSitive Technology/OpSuite President Brett Bennett about how their companies transitioned from VARs to software developers. Among the topics discussed are the importance of owning intellectual property, the biggest challenges for VAR/ISV hybrid organizations, transitioning to a recurring revenue/SaaS business model, and emerging technologies for the grocery, convenience store, and retail verticals.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 7 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy discusses the next generation of retail IT technologies with Greg Dixon, the Chief Technology Officer and Technology Evangelist at ScanSource, and Brad Holaway, the President of restaurant reseller NexTouch. Their conversation covers a variety of technologies – including IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), blockchain, digital currency, edge computing, and cybersecurity – and details how retail IT resellers can take advantage of these innovations. Dixon and Holaway also share the biggest lessons learned during their channel careers and recommend books aspiring channel executives should read. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.

In Episode 6 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy interviews John Kirk, the association’s President and CEO. Their conversation focuses on today’s evolving channel and the RSPA’s emerging role in this new world. Kirk also shares key leadership lessons and principles learned during his 20+ years in the industry.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.Watch Episode 6 now:“The Trusted Advisor” is also available on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify. Subscribe today!

In Episode 5 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy sits down with Melanie Tawil, the CEO and co-owner of RSPA reseller member SwipeTrack Solutions. Their conversation covers several topics including SwipeTrack’s humble beginnings in 2011, maintaining differentiation with your products, services, and company culture, SEO tactics that lead to sales, and where retail technology is heading.“The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.Watch Episode 5 now:“The Trusted Advisor” is also available on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify. Subscribe today!

In Episode 4 of “The Trusted Advisor,” the RSPA’s Jim Roddy discusses how VARs and ISVs can build a stellar company culture with Michelle MacKeith, Vice President at VAR Pinnacle Hospitality, and Colin Martin, General Manager of Vigilix. Their conversation covers a variety of culture-oriented topics including Pinnacle’s and Vigilix’s guiding principles, systems that can help you execute your vision, how to maintain a culture across multiple locations, and how to groom talented employees into company leaders. “The Trusted Advisor,” powered by the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), is a content series designed specifically for point of sale resellers and software developers. Our goal is to educate you on the topics of leadership, management, hiring, sales, and other small business best practices. For more insights, visit the RSPA blog at www.GoRSPA.org.