Podcasts about smbs

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

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

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

Craig Taylor is a seasoned cybersecurity leader, CISSP since 2001, and co-founder of CyberHoot, a fully automated SaaS platform that teaches cyber literacy to SMBs and MSPs. As a virtual CISO for over 35 companies and founder of a growing vCISO peer group, he brings deep expertise and collaborative insight to the cybersecurity field. A gifted speaker, Rotarian, and cancer research fundraiser, Craig blends technical leadership with a passion for service and community.Master of Your Crafts is a captivating podcast featuring conversations with individuals who have dedicated themselves to mastering their craft. Whether it's a gift, talent or skill that comes naturally to them, these individuals have taken ownership and honed their abilities to perfection. Through deep conversation, we delve into their inner dialogue, actions and life circumstances offering words of wisdom to empower and guide you on a journey to becoming the master of your own craft.For more information, visit our website https://masterofyourcrafts.com and Bright Shining Light Website: https://brightshininglight.comStay connected with us:- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masterofyourcrafts- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MasterOfYourCrafts/- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1M0vp9HoK7kkP1w4ij7PJd?si=7d383a92b93b4e2c- ApplePodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/master-of-your-crafts/id1512818795- Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/b15079de-bc6a-487c-b8f8-faca73d0f685/master-of-your-crafts- Google Play: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

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. 

In this episode, Sasha Orloff talks with Jean-Denis Greze, Co-founder and CEO of Town, about building an AI-powered tax solution for SMBs, exploring the startup's origin, the balance between automation and human expertise, strategic market targeting, funding insights, and the transformative potential of AI in tax preparation. -- SPONSORS: Notion Boost your startup with Notion—the ultimate connected workspace trusted by thousands worldwide! From engineering specs to onboarding and fundraising, Notion keeps your team organized and efficient. For a limited time, get 6 months of Notion AI FREE to supercharge your workflow. Claim your offer now at ⁠⁠https://notion.com/startups/puzzle⁠⁠ Puzzle

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.

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

Send us a textThe Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) category occupies a distinct space within enterprise technology, serving supply chain-intensive industries like retail and manufacturing with capabilities that traditional ERP systems simply cannot match. While ERP platforms manage transactional processes, S&OP suites focus on high-level strategic planning, offering advanced tools for forecasting, demand-supply balancing, and inventory optimization. Built around core pillars such as planning, network design, and limited execution functionalities like WMS and TMS, these platforms are designed to support long-term, macro-level decision-making. Increasingly, modern S&OP solutions are expanding into “connected planning,” integrating with HR, financial planning, and retail functions to create a unified planning ecosystem. When evaluating S&OP systems, factors like market positioning, product roadmap maturity, investor backing, and industry fit become crucial, as each platform brings its own strengths depending on architecture and planning philosophy. Selecting the right solution hinges on understanding how well it aligns with your organization's complexity and strategic goals.In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 S&OP systems in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these S&OP systems. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each S&OP system.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. 

Gerasim Hovhannisyan, CEO of EasyDMARC, discusses the complexities and challenges of implementing DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance) in the cybersecurity landscape. He shares his personal journey, which began after experiencing a significant financial loss due to an email phishing attack. This incident prompted him to explore email authentication protocols, leading to the creation of EasyDMARC, a platform designed to simplify the deployment of these protocols for organizations, particularly managed service providers (MSPs) and small businesses.Hovhannisyan highlights the common friction points faced by organizations when deploying DMARC solutions, particularly the fear of misconfiguration that could lead to legitimate emails being rejected. He notes that many organizations struggle with visibility and control over their email sending sources, which complicates the implementation process. EasyDMARC aims to alleviate these concerns by providing automation and clear visualizations, enabling MSPs to deploy email authentication more effectively and with greater confidence.The conversation also touches on the importance of email security for all businesses, regardless of size. Hovhannisyan argues that even micro businesses need to prioritize email authentication to protect their reputation and maintain secure communication. He emphasizes that while the effort to implement DMARC can be significant, leveraging the right vendor can streamline the process and make it manageable for smaller organizations.Finally, Hovhannisyan discusses the role of major cloud providers like Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo in the email security ecosystem. He believes that their enforcement of DMARC standards is crucial for creating a safer email environment. As regulations evolve and more organizations adopt email authentication practices, Hovhannisyan is optimistic about the future of email security and the ongoing efforts to simplify the implementation process for all 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

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Everything has a spin. A few lessons learned after 400 episodes and 5 years of the podcast.   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

Charter Communications has announced its acquisition of Cox Communications for $34.5 billion, a significant move that will merge two of the largest internet service providers in the United States. This merger is expected to require approval from the Federal Communications Commission due to Cox's critical operational licenses. The combined entity plans to adopt the Cox Communications name, with Spectrum serving as the consumer-facing brand in areas previously served by Cox. This merger could potentially impact service quality for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that rely on Cox as their provider, especially during the integration phase.In another major development, Proofpoint has revealed its plans to acquire Hornet Security for $1 billion, aiming to enhance its cybersecurity offerings and expand its presence in the cloud security market. Hornet Security specializes in Microsoft 365 solutions and has shown impressive growth, reporting over $160 million in annual recurring revenue. This acquisition may alienate Hornet Security's managed service provider (MSP) partners if there are changes in pricing, support models, or access to services, creating an opportunity for competitors to attract disaffected partners.Arm is rebranding its system-on-a-chip product designs to focus on power savings for artificial intelligence workloads, targeting sectors like automotive and cloud computing. The company reported a significant revenue increase, driven by licensing and royalty revenue. Meanwhile, Box is enhancing its collaboration with Microsoft by introducing an AI agent that integrates with Microsoft 365 Copilot, allowing users to analyze documents and automate tasks more efficiently. These moves reflect the industry's shift towards AI integration and the importance of aligning with existing platforms to deliver value.Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has introduced updates to its Morpheus software and VM Essentials offerings, promising substantial cost savings for businesses in the virtualization market. HPE's new pricing model, based on server sockets rather than cores, aims to provide significant financial advantages, especially as VMware faces scrutiny over its pricing strategies. Additionally, the podcast discusses the challenges posed by shadow AI and the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for governance and transparency as organizations increasingly adopt AI tools without formal approval. The episode concludes with a reflection on the implications of AI in education, highlighting the growing use of AI tools by professors and the concerns raised by students regarding the authenticity of their learning experience.  Four things to know today  00:00 Charter-Cox Merger and Proofpoint's $1B Hornet Deal Signal New Era of Scale and Specialization in Tech Services 03:38 From Chips to Content: Arm and Box Shift Strategies to Embed AI Across Cloud, Automotive, and Microsoft 365  05:39 HPE Launches Morpheus and VM Essentials Updates With Up to 90% Savings Over VMware Licensing  07:45 Shadow AI, Specialized Models, and Student Backlash: The Growing Pains of Enterprise AI Adoption   Supported by:  https://mspradio.com/engage/ 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 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. 

Developers are relying on LLMs as coding assistants, so where are the LLM assistants for appsec? The principles behind secure code reviews don't really change based on who write the code, whether human or AI. But more code means more reasons for appsec to scale its practices and figure out how to establish trust in code, packages, and designs. Rey Bango shares his experience with secure code reviews and where developer education fits in among the adoption of LLMs. As businesses rapidly embrace SaaS and AI-powered applications at an unprecedented rate, many small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) struggle to keep up due to complex tech stacks and limited visibility into the skyrocketing app sprawl. These modern challenges demand a smarter, more streamlined approach to identity and access management. Learn how LastPass is reimagining access control through “Secure Access Experiences” - starting with the introduction of SaaS Monitoring capabilities designed to bring clarity to even the most chaotic environments. Secure Access Experiences - https://www.lastpass.com/solutions/secure-access This segment is sponsored by LastPass. Visit https://securityweekly.com/lastpassrsac to learn more about them! Cloud Application Detection and Response (CADR) has burst onto the scene as one of the hottest categories in security, with numerous vendors touting a variety of capabilities and making promises on how bringing detection and response to the application-level will be a game changer. In this segment, Gal Elbaz, co-founder and CTO of Oligo Security, will dive into what CADR is, who it helps, and what the future will look like for this game changing technology. Segment Resources - https://www.oligo.security/company/whyoligo To see Oligo in action, please visit https://securityweekly.com/oligorsac Visit https://www.securityweekly.com/asw for all the latest episodes! Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/asw-330

Send us a textCRM systems generally center around four main suites—sales, marketing, customer service, and field service—often enhanced by contact center capabilities, though smaller platforms may streamline their offerings to focus primarily on marketing and lead generation. While enterprise-grade CRMs tend to offer robust, native support for complex features like CPQ and subscription management, smaller solutions often rely on third-party integrations to meet industry-specific needs. In this context, Keap stands out as a CRM designed specifically for small businesses, prioritizing simplicity, marketing automation, and affordability over extensive transactional or field service functionalities. Its position in the CRM landscape reflects a clear trade-off: it may lack the depth of enterprise tools, but excels in providing an accessible, all-in-one solution for small teams aiming to streamline customer engagement and growth.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of Keap's capabilities. We covered many grounds including where Keap 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 Keap.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.

Developers are relying on LLMs as coding assistants, so where are the LLM assistants for appsec? The principles behind secure code reviews don't really change based on who write the code, whether human or AI. But more code means more reasons for appsec to scale its practices and figure out how to establish trust in code, packages, and designs. Rey Bango shares his experience with secure code reviews and where developer education fits in among the adoption of LLMs. As businesses rapidly embrace SaaS and AI-powered applications at an unprecedented rate, many small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) struggle to keep up due to complex tech stacks and limited visibility into the skyrocketing app sprawl. These modern challenges demand a smarter, more streamlined approach to identity and access management. Learn how LastPass is reimagining access control through “Secure Access Experiences” - starting with the introduction of SaaS Monitoring capabilities designed to bring clarity to even the most chaotic environments. Secure Access Experiences - https://www.lastpass.com/solutions/secure-access This segment is sponsored by LastPass. Visit https://securityweekly.com/lastpassrsac to learn more about them! Cloud Application Detection and Response (CADR) has burst onto the scene as one of the hottest categories in security, with numerous vendors touting a variety of capabilities and making promises on how bringing detection and response to the application-level will be a game changer. In this segment, Gal Elbaz, co-founder and CTO of Oligo Security, will dive into what CADR is, who it helps, and what the future will look like for this game changing technology. Segment Resources - https://www.oligo.security/company/whyoligo To see Oligo in action, please visit https://securityweekly.com/oligorsac Visit https://www.securityweekly.com/asw for all the latest episodes! Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/asw-330

In this episode of Cherokee Business Radio, Joshua Kornitsky interviews TJ Blackmon, Vice President of LMI Tech Systems. The discussion centers on LMI's innovative Technology as a Service (TaaS) model, which helps small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) manage technology costs and needs. TJ shares his 25-year journey with LMI, highlighting their evolution from high-end home […] The post Transforming Tech Management: How LMI Tech Systems Simplifies IT for SMBs appeared first on Business RadioX ®.

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Dario Berrebi to unpack one of the most overlooked shifts in brand storytelling: becoming the guide, not the hero. Think Yoda, not Luke Skywalker.We explore why purpose-driven brands struggle with positioning, how to tell stories that resonate without sounding self-important, and why solving boring problems beats chasing cool ideas.You'll walk away with a smarter way to communicate your value, one rooted in empathy, simplicity, and timeless storytelling structure.WE COVERED:Why most purpose-driven brands get storytelling backwardsThe “Hero's Journey” framework—and how to flip it for your customerHow to stand out by solving boring, painful problemsReal talk: what scrappy SMBs can do instead of trying to look “premium”Tactical brand building on a tight budget: second-hand gear, focused offers, and positioningHow to make your brand feel human, not polished to deathThe power of telling the truth, even when it's messyFOR WHO? If you're a founder, marketer, or creative working on a mission-driven product, and you're tired of performative branding that doesn't convert, this episode gives you a more grounded, actionable playbook.Most brands position themselves as the hero.Support the show Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast or feedback to share? Leave me a message here. You'll find all the show notes, transcripts, and past guests at stunandawe.com Up your growth game with our hands-on Growth Marketing Course For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email marketing@stunandawe.com. Support the show on Patreon Follow us: LinkedIn Twitter

Developers are relying on LLMs as coding assistants, so where are the LLM assistants for appsec? The principles behind secure code reviews don't really change based on who write the code, whether human or AI. But more code means more reasons for appsec to scale its practices and figure out how to establish trust in code, packages, and designs. Rey Bango shares his experience with secure code reviews and where developer education fits in among the adoption of LLMs. As businesses rapidly embrace SaaS and AI-powered applications at an unprecedented rate, many small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) struggle to keep up due to complex tech stacks and limited visibility into the skyrocketing app sprawl. These modern challenges demand a smarter, more streamlined approach to identity and access management. Learn how LastPass is reimagining access control through “Secure Access Experiences” - starting with the introduction of SaaS Monitoring capabilities designed to bring clarity to even the most chaotic environments. Secure Access Experiences - https://www.lastpass.com/solutions/secure-access This segment is sponsored by LastPass. Visit https://securityweekly.com/lastpassrsac to learn more about them! Cloud Application Detection and Response (CADR) has burst onto the scene as one of the hottest categories in security, with numerous vendors touting a variety of capabilities and making promises on how bringing detection and response to the application-level will be a game changer. In this segment, Gal Elbaz, co-founder and CTO of Oligo Security, will dive into what CADR is, who it helps, and what the future will look like for this game changing technology. Segment Resources - https://www.oligo.security/company/whyoligo To see Oligo in action, please visit https://securityweekly.com/oligorsac Show Notes: https://securityweekly.com/asw-330

Send us a textWhen assessing project management systems, it's essential to separate standalone, best-of-breed solutions from ERP-integrated modules, as the former are specifically engineered to handle the nuanced demands of project execution without being constrained by the limitations of generalized platforms. True project management tools offer deeper capabilities in areas like collaboration, milestone tracking, and customized reporting—features often absent or underdeveloped in ERP modules. The ideal system also varies based on industry needs; for instance, construction and consulting firms prioritize financial oversight and client billing, while software and marketing teams emphasize timelines, resource allocation, and workflow efficiency. Strategic criteria such as product-market fit, the maturity of the product roadmap, community support, and investor backing further differentiate market leaders, ensuring selected platforms not only meet current operational demands but are also positioned for sustained innovation and growth.In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 project management systems in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these project management systems. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each project management system.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. 

Mike Blake is the founder of High Score Strategies, with over 26 years of experience in business valuation and M&A markets. He specializes in advising small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) on increasing their valuations. Mike is passionate about the relationship between pricing and value, and how effective pricing strategies can significantly impact a company's worth. In this episode, Mike shares his insights on how pricing affects valuation, the importance of differentiation in a competitive market, and the shift from growth to profitability in business models. Together, they explore the concept of context-driven pricing, the significance of signaling in pricing strategies, and how companies can leverage their unique data to enhance their market position.   Why you have to check out today's podcast: Discover how pricing communicates a company's brand and market position. Explore the relationship between pricing, profitability, and business valuation. Learn about the importance of differentiation and how to create a competitive moat.   “Pricing is language. It communicates to the market what kind of brand you are.”  – Mike Blake   Topics Covered: 01:37 – The relationship between pricing and valuation.  02:30 – The importance of pricing in determining profitability and cash flow. 03:39 – Differentiation and competitive moats in pricing strategies.  04:53 – The shift from growth to profitability in business models. 08:36 – Signaling in pricing and its impact on investor perception.  11:17 – How to differentiate in a market dominated by larger players.  13:23 – The relevance of pricing strategies for SMBs, and how service-based companies offer consulting as value-ad. 17:04 – What Mike does. 19:36 – Why businesses that don't know their business model. 20:53 – Why value-based pricing is excruciatingly difficult. 25:53 – Mike's advice on pricing and negotiation.   Key Takeaways: “Pricing is the stem cell for all of that. [Cash flow, revenue, and profitability]” – Mike Blake “Companies that get pricing right are the most valuable.” – Mike Blake “If you're selling 100% of your deals you're probably not optimizing your revenue because you're selling too cheaply.” – Mike Blake “Understanding your unique data can create alternative revenue streams.” – Mike Blake   Connect with Mike Blake: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/unblakeable/ Email: mblake@highscoresstrategies.com   Connect with Mark Stiving: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stiving/  Email: mark@impactpricing.com  

Shawn Reddy is the Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of AI Advantage, an AI-as-a-Service company serving over 500,000 monthly users and 400+ global clients. He specializes in AI-driven cold outreach strategies that consistently generate 25%+ booked call rates and 60%+ response rates, helping businesses boost revenue through authentic, human-like automation. With over five years of marketing leadership experience, Shawn is passionate about content marketing, videography, and creating high-performing funnels for SMBs. His mission is to make AI solutions more accessible while maintaining real human connection at scale. Website: https://www.aiadvantageagency.co/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnreddy/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Shawnreddyvids Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Theaiadvantage?mibextid=LQQJ4d    Katie Tremulis is a Senior Sales and Marketing Executive at ProNotary, specializing in Remote Online Notarization (RON) solutions. With a focus on enhancing anti-money laundering efforts, she leverages advanced identity verification technologies to improve transaction security. Katie has contributed thought leadership on the application of RON in legal contexts, such as cross-country divorces, and is dedicated to advancing secure digital notarization practices.​ Website: https://pronotary.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-tremulis-94a780b9/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pronotaryllc/#  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pronotaryllc/    In this episode, we discover how different tools are transforming B2B strategies with AI Advantage, LinkedIn magic, and more.   Apply to join our marketing mastermind group: https://notypicalmoments.typeform.com/to/hWLDNgjz   Follow No Typical Moments at: Website: https://notypicalmoments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-typical-moments-llc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4G7csw9j7zpjdASvpMzqUA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notypicalmoments Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTMoments

Shawn Reddy is the Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of AI Advantage, an AI-as-a-Service company serving over 500,000 monthly users and 400+ global clients. He specializes in AI-driven cold outreach strategies that consistently generate 25%+ booked call rates and 60%+ response rates, helping businesses boost revenue through authentic, human-like automation. With over five years of marketing leadership experience, Shawn is passionate about content marketing, videography, and creating high-performing funnels for SMBs. His mission is to make AI solutions more accessible while maintaining real human connection at scale. Website: https://www.aiadvantageagency.co/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnreddy/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Shawnreddyvids Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Theaiadvantage?mibextid=LQQJ4d    Katie Tremulis is a Senior Sales and Marketing Executive at ProNotary, specializing in Remote Online Notarization (RON) solutions. With a focus on enhancing anti-money laundering efforts, she leverages advanced identity verification technologies to improve transaction security. Katie has contributed thought leadership on the application of RON in legal contexts, such as cross-country divorces, and is dedicated to advancing secure digital notarization practices.​ Website: https://pronotary.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-tremulis-94a780b9/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pronotaryllc/#  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pronotaryllc/    In this episode, we discover how different tools are transforming B2B strategies with AI Advantage, LinkedIn magic, and more.   Apply to join our marketing mastermind group: https://notypicalmoments.typeform.com/to/hWLDNgjz   Follow No Typical Moments at: Website: https://notypicalmoments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-typical-moments-llc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4G7csw9j7zpjdASvpMzqUA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notypicalmoments Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTMoments

Ransomware attacks have surged dramatically, particularly affecting small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), which now experience ransomware in 88% of breaches. According to Verizon's 2025 data breach investigations report, ransomware was detected in 44% of over 12,000 data breaches, marking a 37% increase from the previous year. While the number of organizations paying ransoms has decreased, the FBI's report indicates that complaints related to ransom have risen by 9%, making it the top threat to critical infrastructure. The overall online crime losses surged by 33% in 2024, totaling $16 billion, with investment fraud linked to cryptocurrency accounting for the most significant financial losses.A recent report from KeepAware highlights the security risks associated with employee use of web browsers in the workplace, revealing that over 70% of modern malware attacks originate from these unmonitored endpoints. Traditional security tools are ineffective at detecting threats within browsers, leading to increased vulnerabilities. Key findings show that 70% of phishing campaigns impersonate trusted platforms, and a significant portion of file uploads from company devices are directed to personal accounts without detection. This raises concerns about the basic security hygiene that many SMBs still lack, such as multi-factor authentication and unpatched systems.Microsoft has announced a shift towards passwordless accounts by default, emphasizing the need for improved security practices. This change comes in light of significant security breaches, including one involving Defense Secretary Pete Hedgeseth, whose reuse of passwords across multiple accounts raised concerns about national security. Microsoft has dedicated substantial resources to strengthen its systems post-breach, migrating cryptographic keys and eliminating outdated systems. However, the underlying issue of human negligence remains a critical challenge, as advanced technology cannot compensate for poor decision-making and lack of user training.Enable reported its first quarter 2025 results, showcasing a revenue of $118.2 million, reflecting a 3.9% year-over-year growth. Despite exceeding revenue guidance, the company experienced a net loss of $7.2 million, raising concerns about market saturation and pricing pressure in the managed services software ecosystem. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the dynamics of the MSP market, where churn is sticky and expansion is slow. As the podcast concludes, listeners are encouraged to reflect on the implications of geopolitical and trade policies on tech supply chains and the necessity of modernizing security practices to mitigate risks Four things to know today 00:00 Ransomware, Browser Risks, and Record Losses: 2025 Security Reports Point to a Failure of Fundamentals04:11 Password Reuse, Passkey Hype, and Microsoft's Security Reckoning: What the Latest Breaches Reveal About Culture and Complexity07:49 Durable But Not Disruptive: N-able's Q1 Results Reflect Sluggish MSP Software Growth and Operational Pressure11:53 Tariffs, Tech Gaps, and Legal Risks: The Hidden Pressures Facing U.S. SMBs and Security Leaders 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

Patrick McMillan from Amplēo does a deep dive into financial due diligence, cash flow, and business operations! This guy knows his stuff and seen firsthand how bad things can get without proper due diligence and financial understanding. Podcast Nuggies: Cash flow fundamentals Founder Fraud! What $1M disappearing does... M&A activity in early 2025—lots of quality of earnings reports happening, a balanced buyer-seller market. Take Action. You know what that means.   SMBs are the biggest target for cyberattacks. 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

“RCS is not just another messaging channel—it's the next great application platform.” — Brian Garofola, CTO, Vibes In Part 1 of a special two-part series with Doug Green of Technology Reseller News, Vibes CTO Brian Garofola lays out a compelling vision for the future of messaging, where Rich Communication Services (RCS) redefines how businesses interact with customers. Far from being a simple upgrade to SMS, RCS combines the reach of traditional messaging with the interactivity of apps, unlocking what Garofola describes as a new “frontier” for brands and service providers. With Apple set to support RCS and major U.S. carriers expanding their networks, Vibes has positioned itself as a tier-one aggregator, enabling brands like Chipotle, Ralph Lauren, and Kohl's to prepare customer engagement programs built around RCS agents. These agents offer verified, interactive, app-like experiences directly within the native messaging app—without the need for downloads or custom app development. Garofola also highlights how Vibes is lowering the barrier for adoption, offering no-code and low-code platforms that allow enterprises and even small businesses—like Chicago's Beacon Donuts—to quickly deploy interactive RCS agents. The implications are significant for channel partners and resellers, who now have a scalable, low-overhead way to bring next-generation messaging solutions to underserved SMBs and vertical markets. From fraud alerts and airline rebookings to small-town school communications and donut shop ordering, RCS is proving to be a highly flexible tool that could reshape how we think about mobile engagement. Listen to the full conversation to discover how RCS may be the tipping point for the next generation of business communication—and why enterprises should get started now. Learn more: https://www.vibes.com

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Send us a textThe ERP landscape is undergoing significant transformation, marked by a shift toward vertical specialization and regional compliance as vendors move away from generic, one-size-fits-all solutions. This evolution reflects the growing demand for industry-specific functionality and adherence to localized regulatory requirements. At the same time, artificial intelligence is reshaping ERP capabilities by driving smarter automation, predictive insights, and more agile decision-making. Businesses are also moving toward modular architectures, favoring best-of-breed integrations over traditional monolithic systems to gain flexibility and scalability. As a result, ERP vendors are adopting divergent strategies—some doubling down on vertical depth, while others build expansive ecosystems to support extensibility—highlighting the increasingly fragmented and dynamic nature of the ERP market.In this episode, Sam Gupta engages in a LinkedIn live session with Vinnie Mirchandani, Founder, Deal Architect in a live LinkedIn session and discusses ERP Trends in the Age of AI.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. 

Bea Ordonez still recalls the whirlwind of her first CFO post: a raw fintech start‑up where, in two short years, she recruited “over a hundred people,” built the processes they would follow and decided what kind of culture would bind them, she tells us. Immersing herself in every workflow taught her that finance leadership begins on the frontline—listening, questioning, then turning messy reality into structure.That builder's reflex shapes her playbook at Payoneer today. After a decade as a global COO and a stint as Chief Innovation Officer, Ordonez now sits in the public‑company CFO chair, but she leads with the same conviction that data and customer proximity must converge. Payoneer's mission—“talent is equally distributed globally, but opportunity isn't,” she says—drives investments in a cross‑border payments platform serving more than two million SMBs. To scale responsibly, she has poured resources into a robust data foundation, predictive AI models that flag churn, and governance that satisfies regulators across 190 countries.Volatility, meanwhile, no longer startles her. Having weathered the dot‑com bust, 2008, COVID, the 2023 U.S. banking shock—and now a new wave of tariffs whose ultimate impact remains uncertain—she treats upheaval as a catalyst for opportunity.For aspiring finance leaders, her path offers a signal: there is no prescribed ladder. Curiosity, operational empathy and a willingness to “lean into areas where there's no obvious right answer” open the widest doors—and keep a company's growth story moving long after the numbers are scored, through volatile cycles across global markets today.

As General Manager of PayPal's Small Business and Financial Services Group, Michelle Gill is responsible for bringing together the products and services that help small business owners run and grow their business. She is my guest for this episode of the Tearsheet Podcast. Michelle brings deep financial expertise and experience building platforms and tools that help customers manage their finances to her role on PayPal's Senior Leadership Team. Michelle was previously Senior Vice President of Intuit's business money management, payment, and banking service, QuickBooks Money Platform. Prior to Intuit, Michelle successfully integrated and expanded SoFi's lending business as General Manager and Executive Vice President of Consumer Lending and Capital Markets. Drawing on her early career experience as a Managing Director and Partner at Goldman Sachs, Michelle also served as SoFi's Chief Financial Officer before moving into the product leadership role. Before that, Michelle spent a decade leading the U.S. Assets business for global investment firm Sixth Street Partners. Given her career and experiences, Michelle brings a broad view of fintech innovation. She focuses on user-centered solutions. At PayPal, she leads efforts to help entrepreneurs navigate the complicated web of financial tools they often depend on. “The preponderance of [small businesses] use greater than 15 tools to run their business,” she shares. “What they got into business for is the passion… and yet they end up spending more time on things that are not what they love.” Our conversation explores how PayPal is actively trying to reduce that complexity. It does so not by offering more tools, but by making the ones they already use work better together. Gill outlines the strategy behind PayPal's cash flow-based lending model and how it fits within their open ecosystem, whether it's digital lending, embedded finance, or leveraging open banking.

Send us a textMany companies start their customer service operations with shared inboxes due to their affordability and ease of setup—making them an ideal solution for resource-constrained startups. These email-based systems offer a unified communication channel that simplifies customer interactions and promotes internal collaboration. However, as businesses grow and customer expectations evolve, shared inboxes struggle to support omnichannel engagement and scalable service delivery. While platforms like Zendesk offer powerful features to fill this gap, they often sacrifice the simplicity that made email systems appealing in the first place. This is where Front positions itself uniquely, combining the intuitive nature of email with the advanced capabilities of a customer communication platform, enabling teams to deliver personalized, efficient support across multiple channels without losing the collaborative benefits of a shared inbox.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of Front's capabilities. We covered many grounds, including where Front 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 Front.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.

Join Andrew Wesbecher (Powered_By) and Michael Krigsman on CXOTalk episode 878 to discuss how AI agents can help small businesses succeed in 2025. Learn from industry experts and discover the benefits of using AI technology for your SMB to stay ahead of the competition!Learn more from www.poweredby.agency===================

Is your business one cyberattack away from chaos? Most companies don't think about cybersecurity until they're in crisis mode—but by then, the damage is done.In this episode, Jara Rowe talks with Michael Magyar, an experienced virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO). They cover what a vCISO does, why more companies are choosing virtual over full-time, and how to know when it's time to bring one in. Michael shares examples of helping businesses avoid costly mistakes, explains how vCISOs assess risk, and offers advice for small teams trying to do more with less.Key takeaways:Common cybersecurity challenges vCISOs help solveWhat a typical engagement with a vCISO looks likeAdvice for SMBs with limited budgets trying to prioritize cybersecurityEpisode highlights:(00:00) Today's topic: Breaking down the role of a vCISO(05:32) vCISO vs. traditional in-house CISO(07:11) Why small businesses benefit from a vCISO(09:53) Real examples of vCISOs making a difference(13:52) What it's like working with a vCISO(16:00) Key indicators your business needs a vCISO(20:54) How to prioritize cybersecurity on a budgetConnect with the host:Jara Rowe's LinkedIn - @jararoweConnect with the guest:Michael Magyar's LinkedIn - @michael-magyar-cyqualConnect with Trava:Website - www.travasecurity.comBlog - www.travasecurity.com/learn-with-trava/blogLinkedIn - @travasecurityYouTube - @travasecurity

Send us a textSelecting an ERP system for the not-for-profit sector requires a nuanced approach due to the sector's distinct operational and financial demands. Unlike traditional businesses, not-for-profits rely on specialized functionalities such as fund accounting, grant tracking, and compliance tools, which are essential to meet sector-specific accounting standards. The choice of ERP should be aligned with the organization's size and mission, as systems vary in scalability and feature depth. Dedicated not-for-profit editions are generally more effective than retrofitting generic platforms, which may struggle with sector-specific requirements. Moreover, critical operational concerns—like data residency, donor engagement, and public-sector-style procurement—must be addressed through a tightly integrated, suite-based solution that holistically supports both financial and mission-centric goals.In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 Non-Profit ERP systems in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these Non-Profit ERP systems. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each Non-Profit ERP system.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. 

Over the last seven years, Jodie has lived in different countries while managing her business, exiting, writing books, and training/competing as a powerlifter. She's just 32 years old (ish) and has put herself in a position to never work again—just for money. She wrote Ten Year Career: Reimagine Business, Design Your Life, Fast Track Your Freedom.  We dive into… — Designing your life consciously — Businesses that are fun to run are more fun to sell — Systemizing your business — Stop acting like you're going to live forever — How to raise entrepreneurial kids   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

Kat is an Oura Ring snob, and thinks Apple Watches are "trash," while Ian is #TeamAppleWatch. We then get into voice memos and how many texts the average person we get each day (turns out Ian needs more friends)! We wrap up talking VR goggles and glasses, and how we think it may be a bridge too far, even if the Webex roadmap has a lot of cool stuff in it like holograms! If you want to learn more about Cisco's solutions for SMBs like email security: www.cisco.com/c/en_uk/solutions/…mall-business.html

Scaling Smarter: What Every COO Needs to Know About Lead Gen In this episode, Megan Long interviews Cindy Dodd, the powerhouse COO and cofounder of PEMA.io, an Inc. 5000 B2B appointment-setting firm. Cindy breaks down the most common lead generation mistakes, shares how to hold outsourced vendors accountable, and reveals the revenue planning process that helps her team scale with confidence. Whether you're managing a sales team, overseeing growth initiatives, or just trying to help your CEO hit ambitious targets, Cindy delivers clear, practical advice every Second-In-Command needs to hear. You'll hear all about: 02:07 – How PEMA.io helps entrepreneurial businesses 03:08 – The biggest mistake entrepreneurial companies make with lead gen 04:52 – What to do when you've been placed over sales with no sales experience 05:26 – The difference between delegation and abdication 06:00 – How to get ROI from outsourced marketing and sales partners 07:20 – How to vet lead gen vendors (hint: demand proof, not promises) 08:24 – The importance of aligning expectations with partners 09:12 – Leading vs. lagging indicators in outbound sales 10:28 – Lessons learned from client delivery and expectation management 12:11 – Why having a strong internal sales process is critical for outsourced partnerships 14:04 – What COOs should focus on to scale their business in 2025 16:12 – How to set realistic revenue goals based on data (not CEO wishes) 18:33 – Why quarterly reviews with your sales team help spot and replicate what's working 19:51 – Cindy's backstory: from Johannesburg to asset management to entrepreneurship 21:57 – The ups and downs of cofounding a business with your spouse 23:52 – Sneak peek at Cindy's expert session for Second First members 25:29 – Where to find Cindy online and get her free resources 26:14 – Free downloads: Outbound Sales Playbook & LinkedIn Guide   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: FREE Outbound Sales Playbook PEMA.io website Cindy Dodd's website The Takeover Podcast Cindy Dodd's Instagram Cindy Dodd's LinkedIn Second First Membership Second First One-on-One Coaching Second First on Instagram Second First on LinkedIn Megan Long on LinkedIn

Send us a text⚾ In this engaging episode of Joey Pinz Conversations, we dive deep into the timeless debates of baseball and business with guest Josh Hoffman. From the designated hitter controversy to modern rule changes, Joey and Josh reminisce about iconic players like Yaz, Otani, and Thurman Munson while exploring how baseball's evolution mirrors today's shifting business landscape.But the conversation doesn't stop at the ballpark!

Send us a textMarketing automation and core CRM systems, though often linked, are fundamentally distinct in design and purpose. Marketing automation is tailored for upstream business processes that involve unstructured data and require seamless integration with multiple systems to drive engagement and lead generation. In contrast, core CRM systems are built to support downstream Revenue Operations with highly transactional workflows, necessitating a structured data model capable of capturing complex business hierarchies. However, even the most advanced CRMs often fall short in supporting the intricate, ad-hoc relationships found in industries like real estate or non-profits, where flexibility and nuanced relationship management are critical.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry experts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to conduct an independent review of HubSpot's capabilities. We covered many grounds, including where HubSpot 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 HubSpot.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 tech and enterprise software landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, marked by a mix of bold acquisitions and cautious public market strategies. While Databricks' CEO candidly states that “it's dumb to IPO this year,” citing market volatility and strategic timing, major players are making aggressive moves elsewhere. From Thomson Reuters' $600M acquisition of tax automation firm SafeSend to WWT's $1.25B blockbuster deal to acquire Softchoice, the momentum is clearly shifting toward consolidation and capability expansion. Microsoft's Satya Nadella has also sparked debate with his prediction that AI agents could overtake traditional SaaS models by 2025, signaling a fundamental shift in how software is built and consumed. Meanwhile, companies like SPS Commerce, Cass Information Systems, and Later are strengthening their portfolios through targeted acquisitions, reflecting a broader trend of investing in specialized tools and emerging platforms. Together, these developments hint at a future shaped less by IPOs and more by ecosystem dominance and AI-powered disruption.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 textThis curated list stands apart by spotlighting ERP platforms that were engineered from inception as true cloud-native solutions, intentionally bypassing the limitations of retrofitted legacy systems. These modern ERPs are designed to leverage the full scope of cloud capabilities—delivering streamlined operations, cost efficiencies, and reduced maintenance overhead. While they may not rival the feature depth of long-established systems, their edge lies in agility, intuitive design, and mobile readiness, making them particularly attractive to forward-looking organizations. Our evaluation prioritizes architectural integrity over popularity, favoring vendors that have fully embraced cloud-native frameworks and are actively innovating in this space. The result is a lineup that not only reflects current market needs but also signals where ERP is headed—toward more flexible, scalable, and user-centered experiences.In this episode, our host, Sam Gupta, discusses the top 10 cloud-native ERP systems in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these cloud-native ERP systems. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each cloud-native ERP system.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. 

I've been quietly cooking up a limited-run podcast: AI Product Builders.This isn't another AI hype machine. I'm sitting down with designers and builders who are actually shipping real work. We're digging into:* Real talk on integrating AI into existing products and worklflows* Play-by-play stories of launching net-new experiences (minus the vaporware)* Honest takes on ethics, personalization, and what “future-of-work” really means for design teams.Meet the line-up:* Ovetta Sampson — Owner, Right AI: guiding SMBs through safe ML/AI adoption.* Pablo Stanley — Founder, Lummi.ai: a fresh library of AI-generated imagery.* Filip Skrzesinski — Co-Founder, Subframe: the UI design tool for the AI era.* Jason Demetillo — Lead Designer, Canva Sheets: helping the creative workforce closer to getting things done more efficiently and effectively.* Kyle Zantos — AI design consultant helping teams ship with emerging no-code aka "vibe-coding" tools.The series drops Monday, May 5th.You can follow on LinkedIn and subscribe to Technically Speaking on Substack to get access as soon as it's available. Get full access to Technically Speaking at technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com/subscribe

Send us a textImplementing ERP systems in government and non-profit sectors comes with distinct challenges, including tight budget constraints, complex regulatory requirements, and the heightened need for operational transparency. In these environments, the role of enterprise architecture becomes especially critical—it acts as a strategic framework that aligns IT investments with organizational objectives, ensuring that ERP solutions are not only compliant and cost-effective but also sustainable over the long term. By offering a clear roadmap, enterprise architecture helps mitigate implementation risks, optimize resource allocation, and drive greater efficiency, all while reinforcing accountability and public trust in mission-driven operations.In this episode, Sam Gupta engages in a LinkedIn live session with Douglas Camin, CIO, Coordinated Care Services in a live LinkedIn session and discusses ERP challenges for govt and non-profit organizations and the differences in enterprise architecture for financial services and government spaces.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.