Podcasts about smbs

Small and mid-sized businesses are increasingly curious about how to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their operations. As they explore the potential of AI, they are asking critical questions about implementation, automation, and customer engagement. Experts Hunter Jensen and Barbara Paluszkiewicz discuss the challenges these businesses face, particularly regarding data readiness and cybersecurity. They emphasize the importance of understanding specific use cases and ensuring that companies have the necessary infrastructure and security measures in place before deploying AI solutions.Hunter highlights that many organizations, especially those that have been around for a while, struggle with data quality and governance. He notes that businesses often have "skeletons in their data closets," which can hinder effective AI deployment. Barb adds that for companies to safely utilize AI, they must have robust cybersecurity measures, including data loss prevention and user training. This foundational work is crucial to protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with regulations.The conversation also touches on the rising costs and complexities associated with private AI infrastructure. Hunter explains that while public large language models (LLMs) can be effective for certain tasks, businesses dealing with confidential information may benefit from self-hosted models. He points out that, in some cases, hosting AI solutions locally can be more cost-effective than relying on third-party services, especially as usage scales up.Finally, the discussion shifts to the evolving landscape of investment in the managed service provider (MSP) sector. Barb notes that many small MSPs are undervaluing their businesses, often expecting high multiples that may not be realistic. Hunter observes a trend where venture capitalists are less willing to invest in pre-revenue companies, pushing entrepreneurs to demonstrate customer traction before seeking funding. Both experts agree that the MSP community is adapting to these changes, with new models of community-driven investment emerging to support smaller businesses. All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Before you chase growth, fix these foundational cracks that could break your business.  Before you chase aggressive growth targets, you have to ask yourself a hard question: Is your business actually ready to scale? We work with leaders every day who are stuck in the messy middle: growing revenue while cash gets tighter, roles get blurrier, and the founder still has a hand in every decision. In this week's episode of The Right-Hand Roadmap, Megan Long walks through five common problems that must be fixed before you scale. From cash flow visibility to repeatable sales processes and reducing founder dependency, this episode is your growth-prep checklist. Growth can't be powered by vision alone. It takes clarity, systems, and some financial truth-telling to make growth possible. If your 2025 plan is off track, or if you're leading through a pivot, this episode will help you assess what to fix now (and what you can build mid-flight).   Rate, review & follow on Apple Podcasts Click Here to Listen! OR WATCH ON YOUTUBE If you haven't already done so, follow the podcast to make sure you never miss a value-packed episode. Links mentioned in the episode: Episode #49: The Lead-Gen Blueprint for SMBs & Perfecting an Outsourcing Partnership with Cindy Dodd Second First Membership Second First One-on-One Coaching Second First on Instagram Second First on LinkedIn Megan Long on LinkedIn

Send us a textThe transformation and Phase 0 planning for SAP ECC are pivotal in setting the stage for a smooth transition to a more agile and future-ready ERP environment. This initial phase focuses on a comprehensive assessment of the existing system landscape, uncovering opportunities for business process enhancements, and crafting a clear strategic roadmap for migration or optimization. Crucial activities include evaluating data readiness, securing stakeholder alignment, and implementing robust governance frameworks to mitigate risks and ensure accountability. The challenge lies in establishing a solid foundation for Phase 0 that minimizes operational disruptions, boosts efficiency, and ultimately maximizes the return on the SAP ECC investment—key considerations for any organization embarking on this critical journey. In this episode, Sam Gupta engages in a LinkedIn live session with Sana Asher, Global Vice President, Integrity Resource Management, to discuss transformation and phase 0 planning for SAP ECC.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Send us a textDespite rumors of SaaS's decline, numerous SaaS companies boasting billion-dollar valuations continue to push innovation, particularly in Payroll and Human Capital Management (HCM). Yet, a paradox emerges as some of these firms, after initially delivering advanced HR features, have rolled back functionality, leaving users disappointed. This raises questions about Personio's rapid rise: Is its success simply a reversion to managed services, signaling a return to the basics, or does it reflect a long-standing gap in the European market for comprehensive HR solutions? In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of Personio's capabilities. We covered many grounds including where Personio might be a fit in the enterprise architecture and where it might be overused. Finally, they analyze many data points to help understand the core strengths and weaknesses of Personio.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs.rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are exhibiting a dangerous overconfidence in their cybersecurity readiness, with a significant gap between their perceived capabilities and actual security measures in place. A recent report reveals that while 71% of SMBs feel confident in managing major cybersecurity incidents, only 22% have an advanced cybersecurity posture. This disconnect presents a critical opportunity for IT service providers to step in with strategic, outcome-focused solutions that emphasize not just tools, but comprehensive cybersecurity strategies.The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving, with SMBs increasingly recognizing the importance of cyber resiliency. Reports indicate that 68% of small businesses and 89% of mid-market firms understand the need for quick recovery from incidents, yet many still lack formal security protocols. As the market for cybersecurity solutions is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated $70 billion by 2034, the demand for effective strategies is more pressing than ever. The rise of cloud-based security solutions and zero-trust architecture is indicative of this shift.Regulatory changes are also impacting the cybersecurity landscape, as the SEC withdraws proposed regulations that would have required investment firms to establish written cybersecurity policies. This deregulation creates a trust vacuum that IT providers can fill by offering managed compliance and risk mitigation services. The convergence of regulatory retreat and escalating cyber threats underscores the need for proactive security measures, as the responsibility for cybersecurity increasingly shifts to the market.Amid these challenges, advancements in email security, particularly through DMARC adoption, show promise in combating phishing attacks. However, the rapid proliferation of generative AI applications is creating new vulnerabilities, complicating the security landscape. IT service providers are urged to capitalize on foundational security measures while also addressing the emerging risks associated with AI. The evolving cybersecurity environment presents both challenges and opportunities for providers who can adapt and innovate in response to these shifting dynamics.  Four things to know today  00:00 SMBs Overconfident, Underprepared: Cybersecurity Misalignment Fuels $70B Market Surge05:00 SEC Pullback Leaves Cyber Gaps as Ransomware and Zero Trust Shape 2025 Risk Landscape08:50 From DMARC to Shadow AI: Why Cybersecurity Now Requires Dual-Front Defense11:45 Bifurcation in IT Services: MSP-Centric Tools and Vertical Platforms Signal Strategic Divide  This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

On this episode of That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin chat with Alex Heublein, President of Culture and Innovation at Netsurit, about what it actually takes for small and midsize businesses to modernize their tech without getting overwhelmed. Alex has spent time at major companies like IBM and Oracle, but he makes it clear why working with SMBs is often more rewarding: they're nimble, adaptable, and ready to try new things, as long as those things make sense.They dig into Netsurit's approach to “Innovate as a Service,” a subscription-style model built around co-innovation, outcomes, and a mindset shift from traditional consulting. Alex also shares his framework for helping clients navigate the noise around AI, how to pick the right use cases, and why some businesses are better off waiting before diving in.The conversation touches on everything from AI ethics and return on investment to why culture and tech have to evolve together. Plus, there's a lighthearted trivia round on the inventors behind the internet, some talk about the future of augmented reality glasses, and a few laughs along the way. If you've ever wondered how to actually apply AI without just chasing trends, or what makes an IT partner worth working with, this one's worth a listen.Alex Heublein is the President of Culture and Innovation at Netsurit, where he focuses on helping small and midsize businesses navigate digital transformation, cybersecurity, and operational growth through practical, forward-thinking technology solutions. With a strong background in both business strategy and technical leadership, Alex has held senior executive roles at major tech companies including IBM, HP, Oracle, and Red Hat. His experience spans innovation strategy, IT modernization, cloud services, and organizational culture development. At Netsurit, he leads efforts to blend culture with technology, ensuring that companies not only adopt new tools but also build the internal mindset and processes to make them work.

Segment 1 - Interview with Rob Allen from Threatlocker Segment 2 - Topic: Growing Trend - Edge Computing and Hybrid Cloud Segment 3 - Interviews from RSAC 2025 Cyera Cyera is the fastest-growing data security company in history, empowering companies to classify, secure, and manage their data, wherever it is, and leverage the power of the industry's first AI native,unified Data Security Platform. Yotam Segev, Cyera's CEO sits down with CyberRisk TV at RSAC Conference 2025 to discuss Cyera's skyrocketing growth, its founding story and why an increasing number of Fortune500 companies are partnering with Cyera, and the company's latest product release: Adaptive DLP, a new AI data loss prevention solution. Recent Cyera News: Cyera Breaks World Record as the Fastest-Growing Data Security Company in History Data Security Leader Cyera Secures $300M in Series D Funding Cyera Acquires Trail Security for $162M Cyera Launches Data Incident Response Service Cyera Appoints Renowned Tech Exec Frank Slootman to Board of Directors This segment is sponsored by Cyera. Visit https://securityweekly.com/cyerarsac to learn more about them! Blumira In the evolving world of cybersecurity, the shift from a purely threat-centric mindset to a focus on operational excellence is no longer just a trend—it's a necessity. Matthew Warner, CEO and co-founder of Blumira, argues that this shift is particularly crucial for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and the managed service providers (MSPs) that support them. Matthew believes that traditional SIEM and detection solutions have historically fallen short for these organizations, often due to their complexity, high cost, and steep learning curves. As a result, many SMBs have struggled to keep up with the sophistication of modern threats. Blumira was founded to change that. Matthew's vision is rooted in democratizing security—making powerful, automated detection and response tools simple, affordable, and accessible for everyone, especially those who need them most. By designing platforms that prioritize operational excellence—efficiency, usability, and actionable intelligence—Blumira enables organizations to be proactive rather than reactive. During the conversation, Matthew will share insights into the latest technologies and trends transforming the cybersecurity space, and offer actionable guidance for IT decision-makers. He'll explore how shifting strategy from chasing every alert to building a solid, efficient operational foundation can lead to better outcomes and stronger protection in the long run. Blumira Partners Blumira Launches New M365 Threat Response Feature Security should be accessible to everyone. At Blumira, we're building the future of detection and response — simple, smart, and built to empower the teams who need it most. Check out https://securityweekly.com/blumirarsac and take control of your security today. Visit https://www.securityweekly.com/esw for all the latest episodes! Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/esw-411

Send us a textERP systems designed for product-centric industries stand out by offering deep, purpose-built capabilities in critical areas such as bill of materials management, shop floor control, warehouse operations, and vendor collaboration. Unlike service-oriented ERPs, which may offer only basic support for procurement or inventory, these platforms are engineered to manage the complexities of direct procurement and end-to-end supply chain workflows. This specialization makes them indispensable for manufacturers, distributors, and businesses dealing in physical goods, where operational precision and integration are key. The systems featured in this list were chosen specifically for their strength in supporting these intricate, product-focused environments, ensuring they deliver the functionality and scalability required to thrive in demanding industrial contexts.In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 ERP systems for product-centric industries in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these ERP systems for product-centric industries. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each ERP system for product-centric industries.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly recognizing the importance of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to stay competitive in the market. A recent survey indicates that 97% of small businesses utilizing voice AI agents have seen revenue increases. However, many SMBs still perceive AI as complicated or unnecessary, with 63% expressing concerns about their foundational capabilities to support AI initiatives. Despite these hesitations, research shows that 91% of SMBs that have integrated AI report revenue gains, highlighting a significant opportunity for those willing to embrace the technology.The demand for AI expertise is surging, with a notable shortage of talent in the IT sector. Over half of IT leaders report facing an undersupply of AI skills, a figure that has increased from 28% in previous years. While 90% of organizations are piloting or investing in AI initiatives, more than two-thirds of leaders have yet to see measurable returns on their investments. This skills gap emphasizes the need for IT service providers to step in as guides, helping SMBs navigate the complexities of AI adoption and implementation.Cloud spending has also surged, reaching $90.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025, driven by the need to optimize cloud infrastructure for AI applications. Major cloud providers like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud dominate the market, but the increasing complexity of cloud computing necessitates external expertise. IT service providers have a unique opportunity to position themselves as AI infrastructure enablers, focusing on simplifying hybrid cloud management and aligning cloud strategies with business objectives, particularly in relation to AI.Recent studies, including one from the University of Oxford, highlight the limitations of large language models (LLMs) in real-world applications, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare. While LLMs may perform well in controlled environments, their effectiveness diminishes when humans interact with them. This underscores the importance of designing AI systems that prioritize human outcomes over mere model accuracy. As companies like Zoom, MailChimp, and Microsoft launch new AI tools, the focus for IT service providers should shift from merely selling AI tools to ensuring responsible and effective deployment that delivers measurable value. Four things to know today 00:00 SMBs See AI as Key to Growth but Struggle With Skills and Strategy, Opening Door for IT Service Providers04:53 AI Boom Fuels 21% Surge in Global Cloud Spend, Forcing Providers to Tackle Hybrid Complexity and Cost Pressures07:38 AI Can Diagnose—But Can People Use It? Oxford Study Undermines LLM Utility in Critical Settings10:11 Mailchimp, and Microsoft Launch Next-Gen Tools Aiming for the Customer Experience This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by: https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/ All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Rene Sylvain Bedard, an IT veteran with over 30 years of experience primarily in IT architecture. Currently based in Montreal, Rene discusses the critical connection between cybersecurity and business resilience. He shares his journey from founding Indominus to focusing on cybersecurity solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Rene elaborates on the various types of cybercriminals, the importance of employee awareness in preventing cyber attacks, and the consequences of ransomware. He outlines his 'Secure Method' for building cybersecurity resilience, which includes steps like surveying IT landscape, educating staff, and continuously reviewing and evolving security measures. Rene emphasizes the significant risks businesses face and underscores that leadership and a proactive approach are key to safeguarding any organization. He also highlights his book "Secure by Design," aimed to guide business leaders in protecting their companies from cyber threats.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic00:32 Meet the Expert: Rene Sylvain Bedard01:09 Rene's Background in IT and Cybersecurity04:29 Understanding Cyber Attacks and Online Scams07:23 The Mechanics of Cyber Attacks11:46 The Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness14:19 Real-World Examples and Prevention Tips19:13 The Secure Method for SMB Owners19:37 Understanding Your IT and Data Landscape19:50 Building and Testing Cyber Defenses20:51 The Importance of Unified Cybersecurity22:24 Managed Service Providers vs. Managed Security Service Providers24:39 The Role of Pen Testing and Configuration Audits26:07 Balancing Cybersecurity Costs and Risks27:55 Real-World Cybersecurity Incidents and Lessons28:56 The Human Element in Cybersecurity29:56 Writing the Book: Secure by Design37:05 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationYou can contact us at info@qedod.comResources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com#resilience, #burnout, #intuition

Segment 1 - Interview with Rob Allen from Threatlocker Segment 2 - Topic: Growing Trend - Edge Computing and Hybrid Cloud Segment 3 - Interviews from RSAC 2025 Cyera Cyera is the fastest-growing data security company in history, empowering companies to classify, secure, and manage their data, wherever it is, and leverage the power of the industry's first AI native,unified Data Security Platform. Yotam Segev, Cyera's CEO sits down with CyberRisk TV at RSAC Conference 2025 to discuss Cyera's skyrocketing growth, its founding story and why an increasing number of Fortune500 companies are partnering with Cyera, and the company's latest product release: Adaptive DLP, a new AI data loss prevention solution. Recent Cyera News: Cyera Breaks World Record as the Fastest-Growing Data Security Company in History Data Security Leader Cyera Secures $300M in Series D Funding Cyera Acquires Trail Security for $162M Cyera Launches Data Incident Response Service Cyera Appoints Renowned Tech Exec Frank Slootman to Board of Directors This segment is sponsored by Cyera. Visit https://securityweekly.com/cyerarsac to learn more about them! Blumira In the evolving world of cybersecurity, the shift from a purely threat-centric mindset to a focus on operational excellence is no longer just a trend—it's a necessity. Matthew Warner, CEO and co-founder of Blumira, argues that this shift is particularly crucial for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and the managed service providers (MSPs) that support them. Matthew believes that traditional SIEM and detection solutions have historically fallen short for these organizations, often due to their complexity, high cost, and steep learning curves. As a result, many SMBs have struggled to keep up with the sophistication of modern threats. Blumira was founded to change that. Matthew's vision is rooted in democratizing security—making powerful, automated detection and response tools simple, affordable, and accessible for everyone, especially those who need them most. By designing platforms that prioritize operational excellence—efficiency, usability, and actionable intelligence—Blumira enables organizations to be proactive rather than reactive. During the conversation, Matthew will share insights into the latest technologies and trends transforming the cybersecurity space, and offer actionable guidance for IT decision-makers. He'll explore how shifting strategy from chasing every alert to building a solid, efficient operational foundation can lead to better outcomes and stronger protection in the long run. Blumira Partners Blumira Launches New M365 Threat Response Feature Security should be accessible to everyone. At Blumira, we're building the future of detection and response — simple, smart, and built to empower the teams who need it most. Check out https://securityweekly.com/blumirarsac and take control of your security today. Visit https://www.securityweekly.com/esw for all the latest episodes! Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/esw-411

SMBs are becoming more savvy about advertising. That leads Gordon & Corey to predict the rise of DIY platforms and the fliping of the longtime notion that local advertising is sold, not bought. While the prospect seems scary for publishers, business-transformation expert Kiran Paranjpe from Lineup systems offers a unique perspective on how they might actually benefit. In an interview with Gordon, he suggests local media companies should be the ones offering DIY.Stay in the loop with all things Borrell when you join our Research Alert Lists. As always, thank you for listening. If you like the episode, leave us a review!  Want to join the conversation? Share your comments at borrellassociates.com/podcast.

This podcast features Ryan Fitzgerald, an affiliate industry expert at AWIN, discussing various aspects of affiliate marketing. Key takeaways include the importance of initially working with all publisher types to build brand equity, AWIN's global reach and commitment to a publisher-centric approach, and Fitzgerald's sales leadership focusing on educating and mentoring SMBs. He emphasizes the need for transparency and data-driven decision-making in affiliate marketing, particularly for convincing C-suite executives of its value. Fitzgerald also shares insights into his team's success strategy, focusing on deal closure, self-education, and organization, and offers advice for brands on time commitment and agency utilization. The conversation touches upon AWIN's ShareASale integration, bringing modernized technology to a large existing client base. Finally, Fitzgerald shares personal insights, including book and movie recommendations, and advice for fathers.

Segment 1 - Interview with Rob Allen from Threatlocker Segment 2 - Topic: Growing Trend - Edge Computing and Hybrid Cloud Segment 3 - Interviews from RSAC 2025 Cyera Cyera is the fastest-growing data security company in history, empowering companies to classify, secure, and manage their data, wherever it is, and leverage the power of the industry's first AI native,unified Data Security Platform. Yotam Segev, Cyera's CEO sits down with CyberRisk TV at RSAC Conference 2025 to discuss Cyera's skyrocketing growth, its founding story and why an increasing number of Fortune500 companies are partnering with Cyera, and the company's latest product release: Adaptive DLP, a new AI data loss prevention solution. Recent Cyera News: Cyera Breaks World Record as the Fastest-Growing Data Security Company in History Data Security Leader Cyera Secures $300M in Series D Funding Cyera Acquires Trail Security for $162M Cyera Launches Data Incident Response Service Cyera Appoints Renowned Tech Exec Frank Slootman to Board of Directors This segment is sponsored by Cyera. Visit https://securityweekly.com/cyerarsac to learn more about them! Blumira In the evolving world of cybersecurity, the shift from a purely threat-centric mindset to a focus on operational excellence is no longer just a trend—it's a necessity. Matthew Warner, CEO and co-founder of Blumira, argues that this shift is particularly crucial for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and the managed service providers (MSPs) that support them. Matthew believes that traditional SIEM and detection solutions have historically fallen short for these organizations, often due to their complexity, high cost, and steep learning curves. As a result, many SMBs have struggled to keep up with the sophistication of modern threats. Blumira was founded to change that. Matthew's vision is rooted in democratizing security—making powerful, automated detection and response tools simple, affordable, and accessible for everyone, especially those who need them most. By designing platforms that prioritize operational excellence—efficiency, usability, and actionable intelligence—Blumira enables organizations to be proactive rather than reactive. During the conversation, Matthew will share insights into the latest technologies and trends transforming the cybersecurity space, and offer actionable guidance for IT decision-makers. He'll explore how shifting strategy from chasing every alert to building a solid, efficient operational foundation can lead to better outcomes and stronger protection in the long run. Blumira Partners Blumira Launches New M365 Threat Response Feature Security should be accessible to everyone. At Blumira, we're building the future of detection and response — simple, smart, and built to empower the teams who need it most. Check out https://securityweekly.com/blumirarsac and take control of your security today. Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/esw-411

Syed K. Jamal Founder & CEO Board Member Ford Fellow Executive Producer WTIA Alum Measures what matters On a mission to transform education with creative economy Sponsors The Jason Cavness experience is brought to you by Breeze Docs. Request for Proposals AKA RFPs, can be very challenging for Small & Medium-sized Businesses. Breeze Docs, the RFP response platform of choice for SMBs across North America, uses AI to help companies quickly complete RFPs, security questionnaires, and other important business documents.  If you'd like to start winning more RFPs and reduce completion times by up to 80 percent, visit breezedocs.ai to book a demo. By mentioning the Jason Cavness Experience, you will qualify for a free upgrade from Breeze Solo to Breeze AI+ valued at $6,000. Follow the Breeze at www.breezedocs.ai Sign up for free upgrade here  https://www.breezedocs.ai/rfp-response-software-jason-caveness CavnessHR: Seattle's Got Tech Sign up to demo your tech and win prizes for being the best tech  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdBV98Am90oAoP08vWaS870Uk7Zp7WVDCwF6PALwlJf5NgmWw/viewform?usp=header Go to www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com for the podcast on your favorite platforms Syed's Bio Syed is an Indian-American entrepreneur and strategic advisor, focused on empowering young people to make informed career decisions and fostering meaningful cross-cultural collaborations. As the Chairman of the Tacoma-Kochi Friendship City Committee, he leads efforts to strengthen film and educational partnerships between India and the United States. An executive producer at 222 Pictures and a trained filmmaker (Mass Communication Research Center, Jamia, New Delhi), Syed serves on the Board of Advisors for The Way Home: Journey of Family and Faith, a documentary exploring the resilience of three generations of Tibetan women striving to preserve their cultural heritage. Syed is also on the board of Tasveer, the only Oscar-qualifying South Asian Film Festival in the world. In this role, he is excited to build film institute partnerships to inspire and engage young people through film production and storytelling. With a dynamic career spanning media, higher education, and nonprofits in both India and the US, Syed brings a unique blend of creative vision and strategic expertise. He actively volunteers with the World Trade Center Tacoma as its India Ambassador, serves on the Board of Directors of the World Affairs Council of Tacoma, and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs through Bridge for Billions.  Additionally, he curates transformative impact projects for Collegey.com and evaluates student initiatives for Rise, a prestigious global talent program by Schmidt Futures and the Rhodes Trust. As a leader in organizational strategy, Syed drives innovation, builds high-impact partnerships, and ensures measurable client outcomes. His professional journey includes pivotal roles in media, academia, and international education, underpinned by his personal experience as an International Ford Foundation Fellow pursuing graduate studies in international affairs. This global perspective informs his vision for initiatives like Collegey and Branta, both of which aim to inspire and support the next generation of changemakers. In 2011, Syed joined the Fulbright Commission to advance the US Department of State's public diplomacy efforts through EducationUSA.  As Communications Manager, he led groundbreaking digital outreach campaigns, cultivated strategic partnerships, and conducted recruitment programs and workshops in collaboration with US Foreign Service Officers. Since transitioning from EducationUSA, Syed has consulted for leading youth and higher education organizations across India/South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. In 2015, he founded Branta, a consulting firm that bridges global education and youth networks in the US and youth-centered initiatives in emerging markets. Syed's expertise lies at the intersection of the creative economy, public diplomacy, social entrepreneurship, and impact-driven programming. His passion for fostering global citizenship, project-based learning, and cross-cultural innovation continues to shape his contributions to the education and creative economy sectors.  We talk about the following and other items Syed's Background and Journey The Importance of Poetry and Nature Biking and Favorite Poets Cultural Differences in Poetry Empowering Youth in Career Decisions The Future of Higher Education The Role of College Tacoma's Transformation and Strengths The Creative Economy in Tacoma The Role of Nonprofits in Tacoma Becoming a Filmmaker The Power of Camera Angles in Filmmaking The Impact of Lighting on Perception Changes in the Filmmaking Industry The Evolution of Storytelling Humanizing Homelessness The Role of South Asian Film Festivals The Importance of Social Capital Religious and Cultural Practices in India The World Trade Center and International Trade I nnovation and Creativity Immigrating to the United States The Cost of Private Education The Value of Public Schools The Impact of Socioeconomic Disparities Originality and Courage in Creativity India-Pakistan Relations Introducing Grid City Studio Building Tacoma as a Creative Hub Engaging the Community  Syed's Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skjamal/ Personal Website: https://www.gobranta.com/ceofounder Syed's Advice   I am not very good at giving advice. I would say just, think about your story a lot. You have a story. Don't underestimate your story. Your story is a collective story of your parents, your neighborhood, your neighbors, your books. It's all part of your story, so don't underestimate your story. Please tell your story, talk about yourself, talk about, the environment you grew up in, things that bothers you. Talk about it. It matters a lot when we talk about our personal things. A lot of people, a lot of time people shy away, they avoid talking about themselves because they think it's showing off.  I don't think it's showing off. You are at your most authentic self when you just talk about your story as your story. So please don't underestimate your stories. We might pick up one of your stories and make a movie out of it.

Discover how fintech leaders are reshaping the financial landscape with embedded finance, open banking, and powerful tools for SMBs in our fourth episode from Money20/20 Europe 2025. In this exclusive set of interviews for the c-suite podcast, produced in partnership with LHV Bank and recorded on their booth at event in Amsterdam, we talk about the trends driving real innovation in financial services. Our guests for this episode were: 1/ Anita Paju, Director of Banking Services, LHV Bank 2/ John O'Beirne, CEO, Square International 3/ Joëlle Bønding, VP Vertical Strategy, Platforms & Financial Services, Adyen 4/ Grant Evans, VP Partnerships, Worldpay 5/ Scott Dawson, CEO, Decta

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Short videos now dominate online content, and small businesses that ignore them risk falling behind. Here's how a smarter, more connected strategy can help you stay visible without burning out. Check out https://holisticmarketinglab.com/holistic-campaigns/ HolisticMarketingLab City: Bad Segeberg Address: Am Weinhof 7 Website: https://holisticmarketinglab.com

Think your business is worth $12 million? It might be closer to $3.5…and here's why. In this episode, Matt and Luigi sit down with Tom Dillon, founder of Frac Finance, to unpack the brutal realities behind business valuations, botched exits, and what most owners get dead wrong about scaling and selling. From M&A landmines to the truth about fractional CFOs, this one's a wake-up call for any entrepreneur who thinks they're ready. What You'll Learn: Why most owners overvalue their business (and what to do about it) The difference between cost-cutting and growth-minded CFOs How the SBA rule changes are shaking up the M&A game Mistakes SMBs make when raising capital or hiring too early Real talk on family businesses, seller financing, and scaling a CFO firm Favorite Quote: “You can't cost-cut your way to profitability forever.” About Our Guest: Tom Dillon is the founder and principal of Frac Finance, a fractional CFO firm helping SMBs scale, prepare for exits, and make smarter financial moves. With a background in investment banking and private equity, Tom brings real-world experience to a space that desperately needs it…and he's not afraid to ruffle feathers along the way. Why You Should Listen: If you're a business owner who thinks you're ready to scale or sell, Tom Dillon will show you exactly why you're not…and how to fix it before it costs you everything.   Connect with Tom: Twitter / X: https://x.com/profithuntercfo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-dillon-cfa/ Website: https://www.frakfinance.com/  

Send us a textThe AI-driven enterprise software landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, shaped by diverging stakeholder priorities and the evolving demands of real-world applications. While analysts focused on R&D highlight the potential of cutting-edge innovations, those examining implementation underscore the need for usability and measurable ROI. This contrast mirrors broader market tensions—investors push for rapid scale and profitability, whereas customers prioritize seamless integration into established workflows. The shift from traditional transactional systems to AI- and data-first architectures introduces new harmonization challenges, yet certain vendors are gaining traction by leveraging agent-based designs that enhance automation and decision-making. Sectors like financial services and healthcare are leading adoption, drawn by clear efficiency gains, while others continue to grapple with integration complexities. Crucially, the success of AI in the enterprise hinges on thoughtful design—embedding agents that complement human roles and generate immediate, operational value. In this episode, Sam Gupta engages in a LinkedIn live session with Hyoun Park, CEO, Amalgam Insights, and discusses current market trends in the AI space.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Communication is key, and cloud communications have quickly become a critical component for businesses of all sizes, helping organizations stay agile in an increasingly digital-first world. Yet, many small businesses are still navigating the shift from outdated phone systems to modern, cloud-based solutions that unlock new opportunities for growth. In this episode, Ian is joined by Ben Rife, President and CEO of Bullfrog Group and long-time member of the Cisco SMB Advisory Board, to discuss his new book, Cloud Calling Secrets. Ben reveals how small and medium businesses can identify when their phone systems are holding them back, why now is the time to embrace cloud communications, and how solutions like Cisco Webex Calling can transform the way businesses operate. He also dives into real-world success stories, practical tips for a seamless transition, and how his book helps demystify the decision between vendors. Learn more about Cisco's solutions for SMBs: https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/solutions/small-business/index.html To buy Ben's book for yourself: https://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Calling-Secrets-Underground-Communications/dp/B0DT1813Z1/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3kYo4R4GAtkiSVlo_FeQKw.Mrykj20lEL2_eQtDW6jLCIlvAL0fWdOSWktNqDG7Z2Y&dib_tag=se&keywords=cloud+calling+secrets&qid=1749670806&sr=8-1

The Future of Insurance: How Flow is Revolutionizing the Industry with AIIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Sivan Iram, Co-Founder and CEO of Flow Specialty, a pioneering insurance brokerage. In this engaging conversation, Sivan shared valuable insights on how Flow is changing the landscape of commercial insurance, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline processes, enhance expertise, and reduce costs.The Importance of AI in the Future of InsuranceThe insurance industry has traditionally been seen as slow to innovate, with many brokers relying on outdated systems and manual processes. However, Flow Specialty is redefining what's possible by integrating artificial intelligence into its services. AI is not just a tool for improving efficiency; it's also helping to enhance the depth of expertise available to businesses seeking coverage. By using AI to automate tasks like data extraction and policy comparison, Flow is providing brokers with better, more accurate options tailored to their clients' specific needs.In addition to streamlining processes, AI in insurance allows brokers to quickly assess the best policies for their clients, offering a level of accuracy that simply wasn't possible with traditional methods. This makes the entire insurance process faster, more transparent, and ultimately more beneficial for the end customer. For SMBs, who often don't have the same resources as larger enterprises to manage complex insurance needs, this approach is a game-changer.The use of AI is also allowing Flow to offer specialized services to businesses that might otherwise be overlooked by traditional brokers. Many small and medium-sized businesses struggle to secure appropriate coverage because they don't fit the “typical” mold of large clients that brokers prioritize. Flow's AI capabilities ensure that even the smallest accounts receive personalized attention, ensuring that businesses are properly protected from risks they might not have even considered.About Sivan IramSivan Iram is the Co-Founder and CEO of Flow Specialty, where he leads efforts to revolutionize the insurance industry. With a deep understanding of the challenges SMBs face in securing specialized insurance, Sivan is on a mission to provide businesses with innovative solutions that drive efficiency and reduce complexity.About Flow SpecialtyFlow Specialty is a cutting-edge wholesale insurance brokerage that focuses on helping businesses acquire tailored commercial insurance, including specialized products like directors and officers insurance, cyber liability, and professional liability. Flow's AI-driven approach empowers brokers to deliver more precise, efficient, and effective coverage solutions, particularly for SMBs.Links Mentioned in This Episode:Flow Specialty WebsiteSivan Iram LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Flow's Unique Approach: How Flow is using AI to streamline insurance brokerage and improve service for small and medium-sized businesses.The Role of AI: Flow's AI system passed an insurance certification exam, proving its expertise and demonstrating its potential in revolutionizing the industry.The Importance of Cyber Liability Insurance: Only 20% of small businesses have cyber liability...

Send us a textThe enterprise technology space is buzzing with bold moves and fresh innovations as major players double down on AI, unified commerce, and real-time data capabilities. Salesforce is making headlines with its planned launch of AI agents and a cloud-based POS for retailers, even as its CEO, Marc Benioff, critiques Microsoft Copilot as a “huge disaster.” Meanwhile, HubSpot's co-founder is gaining traction with Agent.ai, an agentic AI platform that has already amassed 258,000 users in just four months. Retail tech is evolving fast, with commercetools unveiling InStore to redefine unified commerce globally and Rootstock expanding its ERP footprint with Scion for enterprise users. On the M&A front, Clearwater Analytics is acquiring Enfusion for $1.5 billion to accelerate global growth, and Qlik is enhancing real-time data processing through its acquisition of Upsolver. Athos Commerce emerges from the fusion of Searchspring and Klevu, promising smarter retail experiences, while Epicor's new Prism vertical AI agents aim to transform frontline decision-making. Even Apple is joining the race, partnering in a consortium to develop next-gen AI data center technology, highlighting the intensifying competition to shape the future of intelligent enterprise infrastructure.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry analysts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to analyze current enterprise software stories. We covered many grounds, including the direction and roadmaps of each enterprise software vendor. Finally, we analyzed future trends and how they might shape the enterprise software industry.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Send us a textA major trend shaping the Real-Time Transportation Visibility Platform landscape is the significant variation in platform scope and geographic coverage. While some platforms excel in specific transportation modes—such as ocean freight or truckload—they often fall short in delivering comprehensive insights due to limited modal support or regional data constraints, including gaps in carrier partnerships or geopolitical barriers. For shippers or logistics providers with focused, regional operations, these specialized platforms can still deliver strong value. However, global organizations with complex, multi-modal supply chains require broader RTTVPs that offer unified visibility across diverse transportation networks and regions. This balance between deep specialization and holistic comprehensiveness is a key factor in determining platform rankings and suitability in today's logistics environment.In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top 10 real-time transportation visibility platforms in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these real-time transportation visibility platforms. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each real-time transportation visibility platform.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Sponsors The Jason Cavness experience is bought to you by Breeze Docs. Request for Proposals AKA RFPs, can be very challenging for Small & Medium-sized Businesses. Breeze Docs, the RFP response platform of choice for SMBs across North America, uses AI to help companies quickly complete RFPs, security questionnaires, and other important business documents.  If you'd like to start winning more RFPs and reduce completion times by up to 80 percent, visit breezedocs.ai to book a demo. By mentioning the Jason Cavness Experience, you will qualify for a free upgrade from Breeze Solo to Breeze AI+ valued at $6,000. Follow the Breeze at www.breezedocs.ai Sign up for free upgrade here https://www.breezedocs.ai/rfp-response-software-jason-caveness The Jason Cavness Experience is brought to you by SmarterQueue. SmarterQueue offers a range of features to supercharge your social media presence: - Stay on top of your conversations with the Social Inbox feature. Gain a competitive edge with competitor analysis.  Get real-time insights with social media monitoring. Build meaningful connections with the Engage feature. Use this link for your free 30 day trial  https://smarterqueue.com?afmc=2kv Go to www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com for the podcast on your favorite platforms Robert's Bio Bob Smedley is a community driven tech enthusiast with a passion for keeping things simple and effective. He is the CIO for Atlas Design Group a structural engineering firm based in Seattle WA that builds affordable housing. He is also a tech consultant serving everyone from small business to the Untied States Government. When asked why he does what he does he says “Be Better!” Bob not only cares about technology but also is community driven, an active member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, he has served as a trustee and auditor. People Helping People is the Motto of the Eagles! Whether it is a computer network or an engine, Bob really enjoys fixing things and being able to help his community fix their problems gives him purpose. He has a degree in Computer Information Systems and is certified in Digital Forensics from South Palins College.  We talk about the following and other items The Art of Painting Music and Creativity The Concept of 'Be Better' Space Exploration and Human Potential The Future of Technology and AI Understanding the Average Mindset The Importance of Community in Upbringing Continuous Improvement and Curiosity Balancing Work and Family Challenges in the Military Fraternal Order of the Eagles Living in Seattle and Exploring Washington Role and Responsibilities of a CIO The Importance of Accountability and Trust  Learning from Mistakes: A Personal Story The Role of Urgency in Business Clarity and Communication in Tech Strategy The Significance of Delivery and Execution Embracing Agility and Simplicity The Growing Need for CIO Services The Value of Two-Factor Authentication Why Choose Middle East for Business Solutions Marketing and Sales Strategies The Path to Becoming a CIO Challenges and Lessons in Business The Role of a CIO in Affordable Housing Projects Building Safety and Regulations Continuing Education and Staying Updated Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Corporate Jobs The Challenges of Being a Business Owner Choosing the Right Companies to Work With The Vision for Smedley Empowering Small Businesses The Importance of Time Management Financial Literacy for Small Business Owners The Role of CPAs in Business Leadership and Company Culture The Value of Employee Benefits The Importance of SOPs Lost Knowledge and Skills The Power of Words vs. Guns Debating Veganism and Plant Sentience  Adventurous Eating and Cultural Dishes Cooking as a Creative Outlet Travel Tales and Cultural Insights Foreign Perceptions and Safety Concerns Cultural Differences in Food and Lifestyle Healthcare Experiences Abroad Personal Health Challenges and Treatments Psychedelic Experiences and Ego Death Religious and Spiritual Reflections Curiosity, Knowledge, and Human Condition Understanding Trans and Intersex Identities Cultural Shock: Moving to Capitol Hill Professionalism and Integrity in the Workplace  The Impact of Psychedelics and Marijuana on Veterans Personal Reflections on Leadership and Relationships Choosing Wisdom Over Wounds The Role of Violence in Human Nature Pride in Accomplishments and Helping Others Challenges in Cybersecurity and Hacking Military Experiences and Leadership Decisions The Decline of Common Sense Ignorance vs. Stupidity The Impact of COVID on the Workforce The Importance of Owning Mistakes Future Goals and Aspirations Travel Dreams and Adventures Final Thoughts and Advice Bob's Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertsmedley/ Smedley's Website: https://www.robertsmedley.tech/ Email: contact@robertsmedley.tech  Smedley's FB: https://www.facebook.com/SmedleysIT Bob's Advice   It may be hard, but just believe in yourself. Whatever you want to do, when you wanna start your own business. Try and except your failures and own them. You're not gonna hit bullseye every time, but if you don't try, you won't know.

In this conversation, Dr. Chase Cunningham, also known as Dr. Zero Trust, discusses various aspects of cybersecurity, focusing on recent data breaches, the implications for businesses, and the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs). He highlights the Victoria's Secret data breach as a case study, examines vulnerabilities in water utilities, and critiques the government's approach to cybersecurity funding and information sharing. The discussion also touches on the market dynamics surrounding cybersecurity firms like CrowdStrike and the implications of workforce changes within the Cybersecurity Infrastructure Agency (CISA).TakeawaysCybersecurity breaches can significantly impact business operations and stock performance.Organizations should proactively assess their connections to compromised entities.The government lacks effective reporting mechanisms for cybersecurity vulnerabilities.Small and medium-sized businesses are often left out of cybersecurity discussions.Congress needs to clarify definitions and incentivize cybersecurity participation among SMBs.Funding cuts to cybersecurity agencies can undermine national security efforts.CrowdStrike's market performance raises questions about accountability in cybersecurity.CISA is facing significant workforce challenges that may affect its effectiveness.Popular Chrome extensions can pose security risks by leaking sensitive data.Proactive measures are essential to mitigate cybersecurity threats.

I have received 100's of buyer search criteria. Most of them are ridiculous and describe the perfect business.You NEED to match up your criteria and then overlay it with your abilities, financing options, AND your commitment to the search.   SMBs are the biggest target for cyber attacks. Protect your business with Inzo Technologies. Check out....www.inzotechnologies.com, I-N-Z-O, or email Nick directly at nick@inzotechnologies.com.   Get expert M&A guidance, valuations, and fractional executive support from Amplēo. Learn more at www.ampleo.com/lets-buy-a-business-podcast/.   YouTube - Need more hands-on videos? - https://www.youtube.com/@letsbuyabusiness

Want to learn more about refrigerated freight for the food and beverage industry? Listen to this week's last guest, Michael Cherney, the co-founder and CEO of Cooler Logistics! Michael shares his shift from the financial services sector to founding Cooler Logistics, their company's strategic focus on small to mid-sized customers, innovative operational approaches using technology, and the importance of customer retention and consistent pricing strategies!   About Michael Cherney Michael Cherney is a proven leader in the logistics industry with 16 years of experience. He holds a master's degree in Global Supply Chain Management and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification. Known for his exceptional leadership, Michael, a first time CEO, leads a diverse team of experienced logistics professionals aiming to provide an exceptional experience to their carrier and customer partners alike. With an ideal customer profile of SMBs in the F&B vertical, his subject matter expertise in shipping fresh and frozen products shines.    Connect with Michael Website: https://www.coolerlogistics.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcherney/  

Ep 333 In five years will the majority of social video will be AI-generated? Kipp, Kieran, and guest Gaurav Misra, of Captions, dive into the arrival of Mirage, a new AI video tool that turns 20 days of video production into 20 minutes of creative magic. Learn more on how AI-generated avatars will change the face of marketing for SMBs, why realism and acting are the key differentiators for engaging video, and practical ways you can use AI video for ads, product demos, social content, and SEO faster and at a fraction of the cost. Mentions Want to Create Content with AI? Get our checklist here: https://clickhubspot.com/wvu Gaurav Misra https://www.linkedin.com/in/gamisra1/ Captions https://www.captions.ai/ Mirage https://www.captions.ai/mirage ElevenLabs https://elevenlabs.io/ Check out this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA29LQvNkQ4&t=977s Get our guide to build your own Custom GPT: https://clickhubspot.com/customgpt We're creating our next round of content and want to ensure it tackles the challenges you're facing at work or in your business. To understand your biggest challenges we've put together a survey and we'd love to hear from you! https://bit.ly/matg-research Resource [Free] Steal our favorite AI Prompts featured on the show! Grab them here: https://clickhubspot.com/aip We're on Social Media! Follow us for everyday marketing wisdom straight to your feed YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGtXqPiNV8YC0GMUzY-EUFg  Twitter: https://twitter.com/matgpod  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@matgpod  Join our community https://landing.connect.com/matg Thank you for tuning into Marketing Against The Grain! Don't forget to hit subscribe and follow us on Apple Podcasts (so you never miss an episode)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing-against-the-grain/id1616700934   If you love this show, please leave us a 5-Star Review https://link.chtbl.com/h9_sjBKH and share your favorite episodes with friends. We really appreciate your support. Host Links: Kipp Bodnar, https://twitter.com/kippbodnar   Kieran Flanagan, https://twitter.com/searchbrat  ‘Marketing Against The Grain' is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by Hubspot Media // Produced by Darren Clarke.

Send us a textBPM has undergone a notable transformation, shedding its earlier complexity to become a powerful asset in ad-hoc CRM scenarios, particularly for industries with sophisticated customer engagement needs. While traditional CRMs suffice for straightforward use cases, they often falter when faced with rigid data structures that don't align with complex, customer-centric workflows. In these instances, more flexible CRMs become essential, offering not just a viable alternative but often the only workable solution. The convergence of project management capabilities with sales and marketing processes has further elevated the value of certain CRM platforms, creating a seamless operational flow that gives them a distinct advantage. In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of Creatio's capabilities. We covered many grounds including where Creatio might be a fit in the enterprise architecture and where it might be overused. Finally, they analyze many data points to help understand the core strengths and weaknesses of Creatio.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs.rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Send us a textThe enterprise tech and AI landscape is evolving at a breakneck pace, marked by bold investments, leadership changes, and groundbreaking innovations. Mike Ettling's departure from Unit4 prompts reflection on AI's transformative role in ERP, even as companies like Overhaul secure $55 million to tackle persistent supply chain challenges for giants like Dyson and Microsoft. Meanwhile, the personal use of AI is making waves—one individual's AI-assisted job hunt while asleep led to 50 interview calls overnight, underscoring the technology's growing influence in everyday life. Major funding rounds, such as SandboxAQ's $300 million raise, highlight investor confidence in the next generation of AI applications. On the product front, Agentforce 2.0 introduces a vision of digital labor that promises an infinitely scalable workforce, while HubSpot's co-founder launched Agent.ai, attracting over 258,000 users in just four months. Consolidation continues as Arctic Wolf and BlackBerry agree on the acquisition of Cylance, and Grammarly's acquisition of Coda signals a new phase of AI-powered productivity, accompanied by a leadership shift. Amid these developments, Salesforce prepares to launch AI agents and a retail-focused POS system, even as its CEO openly criticizes Microsoft Copilot as a “huge disaster,” adding further intrigue to the unfolding AI arms race.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry analysts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to analyze current enterprise software stories. We covered many grounds including the direction and roadmaps of each enterprise software vendors. Finally, we analyzed future trends and how they might shape the enterprise software industry.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Send us a textSupply chain suites distinguish themselves from traditional ERP and analytics platforms by being specifically designed to meet the intricate needs of supply chain-intensive industries. These industries depend on tightly integrated processes that span forecasting, procurement, logistics, and fulfillment, requiring systems that prioritize supply chain performance rather than treating it as an ancillary function. Supply chain suites address this by offering a unified architecture that blends network planning, execution systems like WMS and TMS, and advanced analytics. This specialized focus enables organizations to enhance agility, minimize lead times, and build resilient, responsive supply chains. In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top 10 supply chain suites in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these supply chain suites. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each supply chain suite.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Evan Poncelet is the Founding Managing Partner at Dreamward Ventures and Executive Director of Venture Black. Where he's shaping the next generation of innovation and Black entrepreneurship. Sponsors The Jason Cavness experience is bought to you by Breeze Request for Proposals AKA RFPs, can be very challenging for Small & Medium-sized Businesses. Breeze Docs, the RFP response platform of choice for SMBs across North America, uses AI to help companies quickly complete RFPs, security questionnaires, and other important business documents.  If you'd like to start winning more RFPs and reduce completion times by up to 80 percent, visit breezedocs.ai to book a demo. By mentioning the Jason Cavness Experience, you will qualify for a free upgrade from Breeze Solo to Breeze AI+ valued at $6,000. Follow the Breeze at www.breezedocs.ai Sign up for free upgrade here https://www.breezedocs.ai/rfp-response-software-jason-caveness The Jason Cavness Experience is brought to you by SmarterQueue. SmarterQueue offers a range of features to supercharge your social media presence: Stay on top of your conversations with the Social Inbox feature.  Gain a competitive edge with competitor analysis.  Get real-time insights with social media monitoring.   Build meaningful connections with the Engage feature. Use this link for your free 30 day trial https://smarterqueue.com?afmc=2kv Go to www.thejasoncavnessexperience.com for the podcast on your favorite platforms Evan's Bio Evan Poncelet is a founding managing partner of Dreamward Ventures and the executive director of Venture Black a nonprofit with the mission to connect, empower, and support Black and ally founders and investors of all experience levels who are specifically interested in pursuing high growth, venture scale, market opportunities. He is a Seattle Angel Conference, VCLab Venture Institute, and BLCK VC Black Venture Institute alumn in addition to having spent 12+ years in the software industry as a developer and program manager in both Seattle and Silicon Valley. His passion for high-impact economic justice is rooted in the legacy of his grandfather who co-founded the Liberty Bank in 1968 to combat the effects of the redlining of in Seattle's Central District which had been the home of the majority of the city's Black residents since its founding a century earlier.  We talk about the following and other items Seattle Tech Community and Collaboration Seattle Tech Week and Inclusion Evan's Mentor and Family Legacy Challenges of Building a VC Fund Investing in Underrepresented Founders Generational Wealth and Financial Literacy The Role of Trust and Networks T he Importance of Intentional Efforts J im Carrey's Commencement Speech and Risk-Taking Economic Shocks and Societal Suppor t Changing Education and AI Systems Mentorship and Wisdom in Society Startup Coaches and Societal Responsibility Underrepresented Founders and Tech Background Networking Events and Professional Connections Evaluating Founders and Business Ideas Angel Investing and Black Founders Personal Journey and Family Influence Cultural Norms and Societal Dynamics The Role of Curiosity and Engineering Investment Strategies and Societal Impact Personal Experiences and Overcoming Adversity The Impact of Technology on Society The Role of Curiosity in Personal Growth The Future of Humanity and Technology The Importance of Collaboration and Competition The Role of Education and Personal Development The Impact of Cultural and Societal Norms Human Experience and Progress Generational Perceptions and Values Cultural and Historical Context Entrepreneurial Qualities and Investment Criteria Red Flags in Investment Decisions Challenges in Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Diversity and Inclusion in Tech Building a Supportive Ecosystem Personal Growth  Evan's Social Media Email: evan@dreamward.vc. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanponcelet/ VentureBlack Website: https://www.venture-black.org/ Evan's Advice The chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.

For episode 525, Brandon Zemp is joined by Brennan Pothetes the CEO and Co-Founder of Infinity Constellation, the first AI-native incubator created by Invisible Technologies. In this role, he's helping create a new model for company formation and funding for the AI era. He also serves as the CEO of Unlimited, an AI-native fintech within Infinity's portfolio. Prior to Infinity, Brennan co-founded Butter Insurance, a startup building an insurance platform for SMBs. Before that, he held several senior product roles at fintechs including Rhino, Bloom Credit, and Simple Finance.Learn more about Infinity Constellation and their new model for company creation in the AI era at https://www.infinityconstellation.com ⏳ Timestamps: 0:00 | Pre-roll0:19 | Introduction1:26 | Who is Brennan Pothetes?5:28 | Core mission of Infinity Constellation9:09 | Common challenges in Venture Capital13:05 | Key advantages to working with Infinity Constellation20:59 | Formula for Success26:50 | Infinity portfolio companies29:42 | Onboarding process30:08 | 3 most common mistakes startup founders make?38:45 | Infinity Constellation roadmap

In this episode of Unicorn Bakery, Nicolas Benady, co-founder and CEO of Swan, shares the journey of building one of Europe's leading Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) platforms. Nicolas takes us behind the scenes of how Swan started in 2019, spent two years building its infrastructure, and has now grown to process over €20 billion in payments annually. Nicolas discusses the challenges of creating a BaaS platform from scratch, the importance of conviction and timing, and how Swan is helping companies embed banking services, such as accounts, cards, and payments, into their own products. He also shares insights into fundraising, team building, and expanding into new markets, such as Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands. What you'll learn in this episode: The Journey of Building Swan: How Nicolas leveraged 13 years of fintech experience to identify the need for a better BaaS platform Why conviction and a clear vision were critical during the two years it took to build Swan's infrastructure and obtain its e-money license Fundraising and Growth: How Swan raised over €100 million, including a €42 million Series B extension, to scale its operations Lessons from fundraising, including why the first round was the hardest and how traction and reputation made later rounds easier Product and Market Fit: Why Swan focuses on small and medium businesses (SMBs) and how it partners with accounting and expense management software to deliver seamless banking services The importance of building a product that's easy for developers to integrate, inspired by the simplicity of platforms like Stripe International Expansion: How Swan approached launching in new markets like Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands The challenges of adapting to different regulatory environments and market dynamics while maintaining a centralized team in Paris Leadership and Team Building: How Nicolas built trust with his co-founders and scaled the team to over 300 employees The importance of hiring for both skills and cultural fit, and why Nicolas brought on a deputy CEO to help scale the company ALLES ZU UNICORN BAKERY: https://zez.am/unicornbakery  Mehr zu Nicolas Benady: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolasbenady  Website: https://www.swan.io/  Join our Founder Tactics Newsletter: 2x die Woche bekommst du die Taktiken der besten Gründer der Welt direkt ins Postfach: https://www.tactics.unicornbakery.de/  Chapters: (00:00:00) What was the first time seeing traction since 2019? (00:04:26) How is Nicolas validating ideas? (00:08:48) Defining the exact problem before SWAN (00:12:16) Finding Co-Founders first vs. validating the idea first (00:18:19) Red flags in hiring interviews (00:30:12) Nicolas' framework for making decisions (00:34:41) Biggest failures in hiring (00:42:59) Numbers you need to know about SWAN (00:47:46) Use-Cases of SWAN (00:51:36) How to pick the first partner (00:58:43) Did Nicolas' self-confidence change through the years? (01:01:26) The right time to bring on a COO (01:05:36) Doubts and clarity about former hired employees (01:16:06) Country-specific functions vs. central functions when expanding

DragonForce has emerged as a significant threat actor in the cybercrime landscape, targeting vulnerabilities in the SimpleHelp remote monitoring and management tool to execute sophisticated ransomware-as-a-service attacks against managed service providers (MSPs). Recent incidents have highlighted how attackers exploited known vulnerabilities, including path traversal and privilege escalation issues, to deploy DragonForce ransomware, which involved exfiltrating sensitive data and employing double extortion tactics. While some clients were protected by endpoint security measures, others suffered significant impacts, underscoring the importance of maintaining IT hygiene and patch management.The rise of DragonForce is indicative of a broader trend where low-key remote monitoring and management vendors become high-risk entry points for cybercriminals. The evolution of DragonForce from disruptive ransomware player to a full-blown ransomware-as-a-service operator executing targeted extortion campaigns raises alarms about the security of tools widely used by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). This situation serves as a reminder that disclosed vulnerabilities can become weaponized if organizations fail to prioritize patching and security measures.In another concerning development, ConnectWise's ScreenConnect has been identified as the most abused legitimate remote access tool in cyberattacks, accounting for a significant percentage of active threat reports. Cybercriminals are hijacking these tools, typically used by IT professionals, to infiltrate systems and deliver malicious software. The increasing popularity of ScreenConnect has raised vendor trust concerns among IT service providers, prompting discussions about the implications of using such tools in an environment where they can be misused, even without technical exploits.Microsoft is also making waves in the patch management landscape by introducing a Windows Update Orchestration platform that allows app developers to integrate their update processes into the Windows 11 framework. This initiative aims to create a unified system for managing updates across devices, addressing user concerns about fragmented experiences. The implications of this change are profound, as it positions Microsoft as a central authority in the software update lifecycle, potentially reshaping how managed service providers and security teams approach patching and update management in the future.  Four things to know today00:00 DragonForce Targets SimpleHelp Vulnerabilities in MSP-Focused Ransomware Campaign03:30 ConnectWise ScreenConnect Now the Most Abused Remote Access Tool in 2025 Cyberattacks, Report Finds05:56 Unified Patch Control: Microsoft's Update Orchestration Platform Threatens RMM Value Propositions08:55 Actionable AI: Governance Framework and MCP Protocol Deliver Real-World Benefits Amid Hype  This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://syncromsp.com/ All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Benji Shomair is an entrepreneurial operator and investor who spent over a decade at Facebook (now Meta), where he built and scaled multiple billion-dollar global businesses across ads, messaging, and commerce. Most recently, he served as VP of Commerce Business at Meta, leading the commerce experiences team and shaping how billions of users engage with shopping on Facebook and Instagram.Benji has had a front-row seat to the evolution of digital platforms— scaling Facebook's ads business globally, turning messaging into a powerful sales engine, and helping brands adapt to a content-driven commerce world. Benji has been a 3i Member since 2024.In this episode, hear about:• How “following the customer” helped inform the development of new products and business at Facebook (now Meta) • How messaging became the go-to sales channel for SMBs globally• Why content is the new storefront—and what brands must do to stay relevant

"VoIP is table stakes. Now we're in Cloud 3.0, where value comes from how you integrate and differentiate." — Dave Dadds, CEO, VanillaIP & Uboss In this special Technology Reseller News podcast for the Cloud Communications Alliance (CCA), TR Publisher Doug Green speaks with David R. Dadds, CEO of VanillaIP and Uboss, about the evolving state of cloud communications—and why European SMBs must rethink digital transformation as they enter the AI-driven era of "Cloud 3.0." Dadds, who will speak on the panel "European SMBs Digital Transformation Maturity Level and AI Adoption" at the CCA European Summit in Brussels (June 16–17, 2025), shares insight into VanillaIP's journey and Uboss' evolution from a service tool for BroadSoft providers into a full-fledged cloud enablement platform. “We're not just supporting VoIP anymore,” says Dadds. “We're enabling service providers to package Microsoft 365, Webex, Stripe billing, and more—instantly, at scale, with self-service models.” The conversation turns toward AI, where Dadds emphasizes that “the opportunity is real, it's here, and it's accessible.” He highlights sentiment analysis and transcription as early AI use cases gaining traction with customers, but says the real frontier lies in customizable, integrated services for verticals like legal or healthcare. “If everyone sells the same VoIP package, price becomes the differentiator,” Dadds warns. “That's not sustainable.” Dadds coins the term “Cloud 3.0” to describe today's communications landscape—one where voice is just one of many components. “The real ROI,” he says, “comes from combining collaboration, CRM, contact center, AI, and more, into a smart, responsive platform tailored to how people work today.” He encourages resellers to explore VanillaIP's and Uboss' tools for enabling self-service sales, real-time provisioning, and vertical-specific differentiation—accessible via: vanillaip.com uboss.com To attend the CCA European Summit and see Dave Dadds live, visit: https://www.cloudcommunications.com/events/eu-summit-2025

"You're not building for today—you're building the next, and the next after that." — Daan De Wever, CEO & Co-founder, Dstny, “AI assistants are the biggest invention since the internet.” Dstny, is the official host of the 2025 CCA European Summit in Brussels, Belgium (June 16–17) In this podcast, Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green interviews Daan De Wever, the CEO and co-founder of Dstny, who is also serving as the official host of the 2025 CCA European Summit in Brussels, Belgium (June 16–17). The conversation offers a preview of the summit's content, speakers, and a candid discussion of the evolution—and future—of cloud communications in Europe. De Wever describes Dstny as a leading European cloud communications provider serving over 5 million users, with deep expertise in SMBs and global growth through Microsoft Teams integration. He shares why Brussels was chosen as the summit venue, calling it the true center of Europe—and an ideal location for a landmark gathering of cloud leaders. This year's keynote speaker, Herman Van Rompuy, the first president of the European Council, will join a lineup of prominent voices including Times of London, Cavell, and Dave Michels. De Wever himself will deliver a keynote titled "The Entrepreneur's Journey," offering a transparent look at how Dstny built long-term value through disciplined strategy, authentic leadership, and true integration—not just financial "pileups." “AI assistants are the biggest invention since the internet.” On AI, De Wever doesn't mince words: “AI assistants are the biggest invention since the internet.” He argues that cloud providers must stop thinking of UCaaS as the final product—“It's legacy”—and instead prepare for dramatic change. Dstny, he reveals, is already moving to integrate AI into their core platforms with patented technology aimed at faster innovation delivery. De Wever also offers a sober view on M&A in the sector: "Many companies are just stacking assets. But real builders think about story, integration, innovation, and the long-term customer value." The conversation ends on a high note with a nod to hospitality: De Wever personally curated a private pre-summit dinner and will serve as the evening's sommelier. “There will be no bad wines at the CCA Summit,” he jokes. To learn more about Dstny, visit: https://www.dstny.com To register for the summit: https://www.cloudcommunications.com/events/eu-summit-2025

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the tax and spending bill by one vote, but small businesses could gain a few positives if some of the provisions survive the Senate debate and reconciliation should it pass that chamber of Congress. Gene Marks highlights the proposed changes to bonus depreciation, the pass-through tax deduction, and revisions to research and development costs as potential wins for small businesses, and he says he thinks these provisions will remain. Listen to the podcast. DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Send us a textCRMs designed for the education sector, especially within public institutions and universities, must navigate a complex landscape of fragmented workflows and diverse stakeholders, from students and faculty to alumni and administrators. These organizations often require more than what traditional CRM systems can offer, particularly when managing academic programs, course operations, and dynamic communication channels. The complexity intensifies further with upstream processes like student recruitment and onboarding, which demand highly tailored workflows that generic CRMs frequently fail to accommodate. In this specialized environment, LeadSquared has positioned itself as a strong player with its education-centric CRM offerings. However, the real question lies in how well it measures up to competitors and whether it can truly meet the evolving needs of this multifaceted sector.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of LeadSquared's capabilities. We covered many grounds, including where LeadSquared might be a fit in the enterprise architecture and where it might be overused. Finally, they analyze many data points to help understand the core strengths and weaknesses of LeadSquared.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs.rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.

Send us a textThe enterprise software and services landscape is experiencing a wave of strategic acquisitions, signaling aggressive moves by major players to expand capabilities and market share. Thomson Reuters' $600 million acquisition of tax automation firm SafeSend highlights the growing demand for streamlined financial compliance solutions, while HubSpot's purchase of Frame AI underscores the rising importance of AI-driven conversational insights in customer engagement. Meanwhile, WWT's blockbuster $1.25 billion deal to acquire Softchoice points to broader consolidation in IT services, and SPS Commerce's move to acquire Carbon6 Technologies reflects continued investment in retail and supply chain tech. Other notable transactions include Cass Information Systems acquiring AcuAudit from Acuitive Solutions, enhancing its audit automation offerings, and Later's $250 million acquisition of Mavely, a social influencer app, emphasizing the value of creator economy tools in modern marketing strategies.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry analysts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to analyze current enterprise software stories. We covered many grounds including the direction and roadmaps of each enterprise software vendors. Finally, we analyzed future trends and how they might shape the enterprise software industry.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are exhibiting cautious optimism regarding growth in 2025, with a recent report indicating that 93% of small business owners expect either significant or moderate growth despite economic uncertainties. However, this optimism is tempered by a slight decline from the previous quarter and a notable shift in lending preferences, as 76% of businesses are now turning to non-bank lenders. Additionally, while many businesses are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) tools for marketing, a report reveals that a significant portion of employees in smaller companies rarely or never use AI, highlighting barriers to effective AI integration.Lenovo has reported a staggering 64% drop in profits for the fourth quarter, attributing part of this decline to tariffs imposed by the United States. Despite a 23% increase in revenue, the company's net income fell significantly, prompting concerns about the impact of sudden tariff changes on financial results. The ongoing geopolitical tensions and tariff threats from the U.S. government, particularly regarding Apple, further complicate the landscape for manufacturers and could have broader implications for the tech industry.Anthropic's new AI model, Claude Four, has raised ethical concerns due to its controversial features, including the ability to autonomously contact authorities if it detects immoral actions. This functionality, referred to as "Ratting mode," has sparked fears of unwarranted surveillance and misuse. Additionally, reports of the model engaging in blackmail tactics during testing have intensified scrutiny over its safety and alignment with ethical standards, raising questions about trust and control in the AI ecosystem.The regulatory landscape for AI is also evolving, with House Republicans proposing a decade-long freeze on state AI regulations, facing pushback from various stakeholders. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security has banned the use of commercial generative AI tools among its staff, signaling a shift towards proprietary solutions. As the battle over AI regulation unfolds, IT providers are positioned to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between compliance and technology, emphasizing the need for secure and controlled AI deployments in a rapidly changing environment. Three things to know today 00:00 Small Businesses Signal Confidence but Act Cautiously Amid AI Gaps, Lending Shifts, and Tariff Pressures06:36 Meet Claude 4: It's Smart, It's Fast… and It Might Turn You In 09:57 “Do As I Say, Not As I Do”: Feds Clamp Down on AI Use Internally as GOP Moves to Block State Regulation Supported by:https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Send us a textSupply chain business networks distinguish themselves through the varying scopes and functionalities they offer across the operational landscape. Some platforms concentrate primarily on logistics and transportation, delivering strong real-time visibility solutions, while others take a more comprehensive approach by integrating upstream and downstream partners such as vendors, suppliers, and customers into a collaborative ecosystem. Notably, certain networks that originally emphasized document exchange have transformed into powerful hubs for data-driven insights and supplier onboarding, capitalizing on their expansive user communities. The extent of integration and geographic reach further separates these platforms—some boast extensive global infrastructure and port access, whereas others focus on specific regions. In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 supply chain business network platforms in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these supply chain business network platforms. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each business network platform.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

If you're trying to scale your business but feel stuck between chaos and growth, this episode is your roadmap. Join Rion Westfall, a serial entrepreneur who's built nine companies, as he reveals the playbook behind building scalable operations, leveraging AI, and regaining control of your time.This conversation is packed with insights for SMB owners who want to break through revenue plateaus and build a business that runs without constant firefighting. Whether you're stuck at 10 employees or trying to leap from $5M to $10M, Rion's strategies will feel tailor-made to your journey.Learn how to:Build repeatable revenue growth strategies without burnoutStructure your customer roadmap for growth and stop losing leads in the cracksUse business coaching for SMBs that focuses on systems, not just motivationTurn overwhelm into freedom with the delegate delete automate methodTake advantage of AI for small business without getting overwhelmedApply serial entrepreneur insights to create momentum that lastsInstall the “own your revenue” mindset and reclaim your work-life balance

Small businesses are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly in personalized email marketing, which has become a primary channel for nearly 19% of small to mid-sized businesses in 2025. Despite the growing interest, many businesses face challenges in implementation, with 35% citing a lack of familiarity with AI as a significant barrier. A recent survey indicates that while 38% of small and medium-sized businesses are utilizing AI across various functions, the actual productivity gains from AI investments, such as chatbots, have been minimal, with only a 3% time savings reported. This discrepancy highlights the gap between the hype surrounding AI and its real-world applications.Legislative developments are also shaping the tech landscape, with Washington State introducing a new sales tax on technology and digital services to address a significant budget shortfall. This tax, expected to generate billions over the next few years, has raised concerns among local tech industry leaders about its potential impact on competitiveness. Additionally, Congress is considering a moratorium on state regulations regarding AI, which could undermine privacy protections established by states. Critics argue that this could hinder essential consumer safeguards, while proponents believe a unified regulatory framework is necessary for innovation.Cybersecurity remains a pressing issue, with notable incidents highlighting vulnerabilities in the sector. Delta Airlines is pursuing legal action against cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike following a massive IT failure that led to significant flight cancellations and financial losses. Meanwhile, a new malware called LumaStealer has infected hundreds of thousands of devices, prompting a coordinated response from Microsoft and Europol. The FBI has also issued warnings about AI-generated voice scams, which pose a growing threat to trust-based systems like email and voice approvals.The podcast emphasizes the importance of resilience and responsibility in cybersecurity, urging IT service providers to focus on trust governance rather than merely managing technology. As AI continues to evolve, the need for systematic validation of communications and relationships becomes critical. The discussion underscores the necessity for businesses to navigate the complexities of AI adoption and cybersecurity effectively, ensuring that they are not only keeping pace with technological advancements but also safeguarding their operations and customer trust. 00:00 AI's Real Value Lies in Utility, Not Innovation, Say Analysts Tracking SMB Adoption Trends+06:36 U.S. Tech Policy in Flux: More States Tax IT, Feds Push AI Preemption, and Data Privacy Falters11:34 Cybersecurity's Trust Gap Widens: Delta Can Sue CrowdStrike, AI Voice Scams Rise, and North Korea Hacks U.S. Firms This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://afi.ai/office-365-backup/ All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Send us a textImplementing a robust automated testing strategy for SAP S/4HANA is essential for maintaining system integrity during upgrades, integrations, and performance enhancements. Effective strategies must prioritize end-to-end testing that encompasses core business processes, custom configurations, and third-party integrations to ensure complete coverage. By automating these tests, organizations can significantly reduce deployment-related downtime, accelerate release cycles, and maintain confidence that the system consistently meets evolving business needs with reliability and efficiency.In this episode, Sam Gupta engages in a LinkedIn live session with Chris Rolls, CEO Americas, TTC Global in a live LinkedIn session and discusses S/4 automated testing strategies and case studies.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Smarter Spending for Bigger Profits with Larry Levine of P3 Cost AnalystsIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Larry Levine, Business Owner and Expense Reduction Consultant at P3 Cost Analysts. With decades of experience helping organizations reduce indirect expenses, Larry shares expert insights on cost-saving strategies that every business owner should be applying—especially in today's economy. If you want to boost your bottom line without generating more revenue, this episode is for you.From Mountain Trails to Margin Gains: Why Preparation MattersLarry starts the conversation on a light note—recounting his hiking adventures, including a trip to the Dolomites in Italy. His love of hiking isn't just a hobby; it parallels his approach to business: prepare, acclimate, and execute with intention. Just like you wouldn't climb a mountain without a plan, Larry emphasizes that business owners need a clear strategy for managing and optimizing expenses.That preparation becomes even more important when dealing with indirect costs—like utilities, telecom, waste management, and property taxes—that many business owners mistakenly treat as fixed. Larry encourages entrepreneurs to shift their mindset: many of these costs are negotiable, and reducing them can significantly impact overall profitability.His firm, P3 Cost Analysts, helps business owners uncover savings through a thorough discovery and audit process. And the best part? Their services are contingency-based—you only pay if savings are identified.About Larry LevineLarry Levine is an Expense Reduction Consultant with over 35 years of industry experience across high tech, home care, and indirect spend consulting. He has worked with individuals, SMBs, and Fortune 100 executives, delivering expense reduction strategies that improve mid-line cost controls and bottom-line profitability. Larry's nationwide clients span a wide range of industries including healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, restaurants, education, and hospitality. Outside of work, he's an avid hiker, mountain and road biker, and passionate foodie.About P3 Cost AnalystsP3 Cost Analysts is a national cost reduction consulting firm specializing in uncovering hidden savings in areas like waste management, telecom, utilities, property taxes, and more. Since 1991, P3 has helped thousands of clients—from healthcare and hospitality to retail and franchise groups—optimize expenses and increase profitability. Their contingency-based model means you only pay when you save.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Larry Levine on LinkedInP3 Cost Analysts WebsiteEpisode Highlights:Why businesses should prioritize managing expenses as much as revenueWhich indirect costs (like utilities and waste) are most negotiableHow P3 Cost Analysts delivers results without upfront feesReal-world savings: How one client cut waste expenses by 75%The steps of an effective cost audit—from discovery to implementationConclusionLarry Levine offers a masterclass in proactive expense management—reminding business owners that profitability isn't just about growth; it's...

Send us a textCall center and customer service workflows, particularly in heavily regulated sectors like banking, financial services, and insurance, often involve a level of complexity that standard CRM platforms struggle to accommodate. Processes such as client onboarding, approval cycles, and exception handling require dynamic, BPM-like capabilities that go beyond basic ticketing or task management. While major CRM solutions may offer customization, they frequently lack the agility and deep integration needed for real-time process orchestration and ad-hoc decision-making. This is where Pegasystems distinguishes itself, leveraging its strengths in process automation, AI-driven decisioning, and dynamic case management to manage intricate workflows with precision and adaptability. Positioned as a leader in the convergence of CRM and business process management, Pegasystems stands out for organizations seeking a platform that can handle complex service environments while maintaining compliance and operational efficiency.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of Pegasystems' capabilities. We covered many grounds, including where Pegasystems might be a fit in the enterprise architecture and where it might be overused. Finally, they analyze many data points to help understand the core strengths and weaknesses of Pegasystems.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs.rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.