Podcast appearances and mentions of Tom Izzo

Send us a textFrancisco Criado, Global Channel Chief at TD Synnex, joins Joey to share a conversation that ranges from the art of perfectly smoked beer can chicken to the evolving challenges of the tech channel. He reflects on his return to distribution after leading global channel initiatives in cybersecurity, offering insights into how MSPs can thrive through security, talent retention, and growth strategies. Francisco also discusses the rise of AI in distribution, TD Synnex's AI Pioneers program, and the consultative role partners can play in turning AI concepts into real solutions. On a personal note, he opens up about losing 120 pounds, rebuilding his health, and the role discipline and positivity play in his daily life.

Send us a textJessica McDowell, Senior Vice President of North America Marketing & Digital Customer Success at TD Synnex, joins Joey Pinz to explore the future of channel partnerships. She shares her goals for the TD Synnex Inspire conference, including creating impact, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation. Jessica explains how TD Synnex is addressing partner challenges like cybersecurity, talent retention, and business growth—while also unveiling initiatives like AI Pioneers and Partner Link. Alongside professional insights, Jessica opens up about the role of discipline and routine in her personal life, showing how consistency and resilience power both her leadership and wellness journey.✨ Highlights:Tackling cybersecurity, human capital, and growth challenges for MSPs and partnersHow AI Pioneers is bridging the talent gap with real-world use casesThe importance of discipline, routine, and lifelong learning in leadership  

Send us a textGary Palenbaum, EVP of Revenue & Partner Success at TD SYNNEX, joins Joey Pinz to explore the evolving world of distribution, partner growth, and the discipline it takes to lead in today's market. From reflections on wine and his Brooklyn roots to retooling sales teams for high-growth sectors, Gary shares lessons on leadership, balance, and transformation.Highlights:

Michigan State University Spartans Head Basketball Coach Tom Izzo met with the media on October 16 to preview the coming college basketball season.Conversation Highlights:(0:00) – opening remarks(11:30) – How do you keep your team focused in the ever-changing world of college basketball?(15:24) – In college athletics today, are the expectations to win unrealistic?(17:09) – Is there a Jase Richardson on this year's roster?(19:32) – Did last year's success rejuvenate you?(22:23) – Compare and contrast Trey Fort and Kur Teng.(24:15) – Do you feel like with the guys you have returning that you're being slighted?(28:06) – What makes this group of four captains special?(30:43) – What are your expectations for Coen Carr?(32:06) – Talk about your relationship with your players?(35:21) – What has surprised you about Cam Ward and Jordan Scott and what do you see their roles being on the team?(36:55) – What do you hope to learn about your team from the two exhibition games?(38:40) – How are the transfers settling in with the team?(41:34) – What traits do you look for in your players?(44:15) – closing thoughtsListen to “MSU Today with Russ White” on the radio and through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your shows.

Send us a textWhat happens when the caregiver becomes overwhelmed? How do you comfort someone facing infertility, grief, or catastrophic illness without saying the wrong thing? In this inspiring episode, Joey Pinz sits down with award-winning author and medical social worker Iris Waichler, who shares more than 40 years of wisdom on caregiving, resilience, and self-care.Iris has helped families navigate everything from strokes and amputations to infertility and end-of-life care. She opens up about her own experiences with loss, the lessons she learned caring for aging parents, and how her writing empowers people around the world to feel less alone. From practical tips on avoiding burnout to deeply moving stories about love, death, and legacy, Iris offers guidance that every caregiver — and every family — needs to hear.Whether you're supporting an aging parent, walking with a friend through infertility, or preparing for your own later years, this conversation will leave you enlightened and encouraged.

Send us a textWhat does it take to turn unimaginable adversity into a life of purpose and strength? In this deeply moving episode, Joey Pinz sits down with a TEDx speaker whose story embodies resilience, courage, and the power of transformation.Raised in poverty in the Philippines, she endured abandonment, cultural rejection, and cycles of abuse. Her path led to early motherhood, immigration to the U.S., and years of struggle through domestic violence. But instead of staying silent, she forged a new path — one she calls emotional alchemy, the practice of transforming pain into wisdom and purpose.Her journey took her from shelters to the stage of the United Nations, and eventually to the TEDx platform, where she shared her truth with the world. Through storytelling, ritual, and intentional daily practices, she shows that resilience is not a fixed trait — it's a daily choice.

Send us a textWhat connects aviation, law, and cybersecurity? In this powerful episode, Joey Pinz uncovers the journey of building resilience and innovation through unlikely intersections.David Setzer shares his early passion for flying, reflecting on family ties to aviation and the lessons of safety and precision. He then takes us through his fascination with law and philosophy, connecting ancient principles of due process to modern justice.But the heart of the conversation lies in the creation of Mailprotector—a company born from humble beginnings that became a leader in email security. David reveals the early days of battling spam and viruses, the rise of ransomware, and why email remains the number one entry point for cyberattacks. He explains how AI and behavioral analysis are reshaping defenses, and why small businesses and MSPs must rethink security as foundational, not optional.

Gary Parrish sits down with Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo for a chat about the current state of college athletics and previews what the Michigan State Spartans will look like in 2025-2026.

Send us a text

Send us a text

Send us a text

Send us a text

Send us a text

Send us a text

Send us a textIn this episode, Joey Pinz sits down with Logan Ochitwa of Vendasta live at MSP Summit Orlando. Logan shares how AI “employees” like receptionists, content creators, and virtual twins are transforming how MSPs capture leads, qualify prospects, and scale growth. He explains why many MSPs don't have a lead generation problem but a conversion problem—and how AI can bridge that gap by ensuring consistent messaging, instant responses, and reputation-building. Logan also opens up about the role of discipline, curiosity, and family life in his career, and why MSPs must embrace AI as a trusted tool to unlock new revenue streams and serve clients better.

Send us a textWhat does it take to scale an MSP to $250M in revenue while still keeping people, balance, and legacy at the core? In this episode, Joey Pinz sits down with Russ Reeder, CEO of XTM, to talk about his journey from Oracle programmer to leading global MSPs through 19 acquisitions, AI adoption, and Gartner recognition.Russ shares:✅ Why MSPs must focus on people first—happy employees = happy customers✅ The power of staying disciplined, avoiding triggers, and building routines✅ How to grow smartly by focusing on verticals, not trying to be all things to all people✅ Why peer groups, EOS, and coaches are essential for leadership success✅ His vision of legacy—not just revenue, but leaving people better than you found themFrom GoDaddy IPO prep to leading Netrix Global and OVH Cloud, Russ has seen every stage of scaling technology companies. Now, he's helping MSPs navigate acquisitions, cybersecurity challenges, and the explosive potential of AI—while still waking up at 5 AM to ride his bike.If you want to learn how to grow an MSP without losing your soul, this episode is packed with insights. 

Send us a textIn this episode of Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations, Joey sits down with William Rubio, CRO of CallTower, live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. William shares his journey of giving back through nonprofits like A Child Is Missing, and how discipline, consistency, and good habits drive both personal and professional success.They dive deep into the world of Unified Communications (UC) and Customer Experience (CX), breaking down how MSPs can leverage platforms like Microsoft Teams, Cisco WebEx, and Zoom to create new revenue streams while strengthening client relationships. William explains why MSPs shouldn't try to do everything themselves, how CallTower enables MSPs to add voice and compliance-ready solutions without the heavy lifting, and the role AI is beginning to play in customer productivity.If you're an MSP looking to scale, improve efficiency, and focus on what you do best, this conversation delivers practical advice on partnership, growth, and discipline. 

Send us a textIn this episode of Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations, Joey sits down with Scott Fuhriman, cybersecurity veteran and leader at Inveri, live from the MSP Summit in Orlando.Scott shares his 25+ years of cybersecurity experience, explaining how Inveri's runtime integrity technology, born from NSA research, helps MSPs and MSSPs detect hidden in-memory attacks, rootkits, and advanced threats that traditional tools miss. He highlights why protecting this overlooked layer is crucial to preserving revenue, preventing churn, and maintaining customer trust.The conversation also touches on Scott's personal discipline journey — from starting as a young PC tech overwhelmed by information to building a career through self-study, mentorship, and consistency. He and Joey discuss how MSPs can choose the right vendors, strengthen their security stacks, and enable long-term resilience in a competitive market.

Send us a textIn this episode of Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations, Joey sits down with Jeff Hill of Stellar Cyber to explore how MSPs can strengthen their security posture, grow their businesses, and simplify operations. Recorded live at the MSP Summit in Orlando, Jeff shares candid insights on what keeps MSPs awake at night—from cybersecurity breaches to staffing challenges and competitive growth pressures.Jeff explains how Stellar Cyber's multi-tenancy, unified platform, and AI-driven automation help MSPs deliver enterprise-grade security without added complexity. He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right MSSP partners, understanding compliance and cyber insurance requirements, and leveraging open platforms that integrate seamlessly with existing tools.The conversation also highlights how MSPs can turn security into a revenue generator, not just a cost center, while positioning themselves for long-term success or acquisition. Jeff's core message is clear: simplify, stay open, and create value that differentiates your business.Tune in to learn how Stellar Cyber is helping MSPs find their “diamonds in the rough” and why now is an exciting time in the cybersecurity landscape. 

We opened talking about Tom Izzo and MSU basketball's latest recruit, Julius Avent. Then a conversation with longtime Nebraska columnist Steven Sipple on the Huskers and what to expect in the matchup with MSU football (17:00). Plus, our college football and NFL picks and best bets with Harry Gagnon (40:00).

Send us a text

Send us a textWhat happens when faith becomes fear, and rules replace love? In this powerful conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with Michela Giordano Castro — Licensed Clinical Social Worker, trauma-informed therapist, and spirituality coach — to explore how people can heal religious trauma and rediscover authentic spirituality.Raised in a strict Christian household, Michela shares her transformative journey: from missionary life in Italy, to her father's crisis of faith, to her own decade-long disconnection from spirituality. Today, she helps others deconstruct toxic beliefs, reconnect with themselves, and cultivate what she calls “blisscipline” — discipline rooted in joy and self-love rather than shame.

Send us a textBorn in India, raised in Malaysia, and now thriving in California, Shilpi Zalani's story is one of courage, reinvention, and breaking generational cycles. After achieving the milestone of being the first woman in her family to earn a degree and land a corporate IT role, Shilpi faced a breaking point when her young daughter asked, “Why do you have to work?” That single question led her to resign and pursue a more fulfilling path.In this episode, Shilpi shares how she built and sold multiple six-figure businesses, navigated an arranged marriage, and transformed mom guilt into motivation. Her journey—spanning after-school franchises, staffing firms, and even a cookie brand—reveals the resilience and adaptability needed to thrive as both a mother and entrepreneur.Through her From 9 to Thrive program and her proprietary T.H.R.I.V.E. B.I.G. framework, Shilpi now empowers ambitious working moms to step out of burnout and into freedom—without sacrificing what matters most.✨ Top 3 Highlights:

Send us a textWhat's the real difference between PR and marketing—and why does it matter for your business? In this episode, Joey Pinz sits down with Lauren Kwedar Cockerell, founder of Kwedar & Co., to explore how thoughtful communication builds trust, reputation, and long-term success.Lauren shares her journey of being laid off at eight months pregnant and transforming that setback into the launch of her own strategic communications firm. She opens up about the challenges of evolving from a technician into a business leader, and how she built a people-first culture where boundaries protect both her team and clients.From crisis management to book launches, Lauren reveals why PR is less about clicks and more about credibility, reputation, and relationships. She also dives into how AI is reshaping PR—both as a tool and as a disruptor for newsrooms.✨ Top 3 Highlights:PR vs Marketing: Why they're different and how they work togetherThe power of boundaries in leadership and client relationshipsHow to transform personal adversity into entrepreneurial growth  --- Join us for enlightening discussions that spark growth and exploration. Hosted by Joey Pinz, this Discipline Conversations Podcast offers insights and inspiration. 

Send us a textWhat truly defines luxury in travel and events? In this engaging conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with award-winning event producer Cindy Nachman-Senders to explore how the hospitality industry is evolving — and what businesses must know to create unforgettable experiences.Cindy, a nationally respected leader with over 25 years in luxury hospitality and event design, pulls back the curtain on:✨ Why the meaning of “luxury” has shifted post-COVID — and how independent brands are filling the gap.✨ The hidden role of meeting planners and why the best events aren't about hotels, but about strategy, culture, and flawless execution.✨ How speakers, podcasters, and content extend an event's impact long after it ends.

Send us a textWhat's really hiding in your pantry—and how is it affecting your health? In this powerful episode, Joey Pinz sits down with Registered Dietitian Julie Ruelle to uncover the truth about ultra-processed foods and how they impact focus, energy, metabolism, and long-term health.Julie explains the key difference between processed and ultra-processed foods, why nearly 70% of supermarket products fall into the latter category, and how additives like food dyes and citric acid sneak into everyday items. From oils and enriched flour to hidden sugars and “natural flavors,” she breaks down what to watch for and how to shop smarter without falling into restrictive eating habits.✨ Top 3 Highlights:The shocking link between ultra-processed foods and type 2 diabetes.Practical label-reading tips that can change your grocery game.Why food is medicine—and how small shifts create lasting results.Julie also shares how technology and AI, like the GoCoCo app, can help consumers decode labels, track progress, and build sustainable eating habits. If you've ever wondered how to fuel your body for real health—not fad diets—this episode will change how you look at food forever. 

Send us a textWhat if everything you thought you knew about weight loss was wrong? In this powerful conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with Dr. David Plourdé—scientist, author of Solving the Weight Loss Puzzle, and founder of The Plourde Method—to uncover the real science behind lasting fat loss.Dr. Plourdé shares insights from 34 years in the lab, where he studied fat cells, food addiction, and the hidden forces sabotaging our health. From uncovering insidious carbs in everyday foods to exposing the dark side of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, his revelations will make you rethink nutrition, exercise, and the role of psychology in transformation.✨ Top 3 Highlights:

Send us a textWhat if freedom wasn't a dream, but a design? In this episode, Joey Pinz sits down with corporate executive, founder, and thought leader Kason Morris to explore how we can build careers and lives that we truly own—not ones we feel trapped by.Growing up in the South Bronx, Kason learned early on to create his own systems for success. Today, he helps high-achieving professionals rethink success, align work with purpose, and build a legacy that lasts. With two decades of experience leading talent strategy at Fortune 100 companies, Kason bridges corporate leadership with entrepreneurial innovation through his Life-Work Revolution framework.

Send us a textWhat if your heart held the secret to living longer, healthier, and stronger? In this episode, Joey Pinz sits down with Dr. Torkil Færø — a physician, bestselling author, and global traveler — to explore the groundbreaking world of wearable health and the untapped power of heart rate variability (HRV).After a life-changing wake-up call following his father's death, Dr. Færø transformed his own lifestyle from stressed, overweight, and overworked to vibrant and thriving. Now, he shares how smartwatches, rings, and other wearable devices can reveal the “language of the heart” — helping us track stress, recovery, and overall vitality in real time.

Send us a textWhat does it take to talk someone down from the edge—literally? In this gripping conversation, Joey Pinz sits with a former UK hostage negotiator who spent 30 years with Greater Manchester Police and Counter Terrorism Policing, handling more than 130 negotiations without a single loss of life.At the heart of his message is something surprisingly simple: listening is the ultimate superpower. In a world where most people listen just enough to reply, he explains why negotiators listen like lives depend on it—and how you can apply the same principles to leadership, parenting, and business.From facing down armed suspects at 3 a.m. to recognizing that emotion—not logic—is the true deal-breaker, his stories reveal why negotiation isn't about clever lines or manipulation, but about building trust and creating genuine connection.Whether you're leading a team, raising kids, or navigating tough conversations, the lessons here will help you influence with integrity and calm under pressure.✨ Top 3 Highlights:Why trust is the bedrock of every negotiation.How listening uncovers hidden truths and shifts outcomes.Why removing ego and emotion is the key to resolution. --- Join us for enlightening discussions that spark growth and exploration. Hosted by Joey Pinz, this Discipline Conversations Podcast offers insights and inspiration. 

Send us a textWhat does it take to thrive in sales, business, and life over eight decades?

Send us a text

Send us a textDiscover the groundbreaking science of Emotional Brain Training (EBT) — a proven method to rewire your unconscious mind, break destructive habits, and return to your brain's natural state of joy. In this captivating conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with Dr. Laurel Mellin, a UCSF health psychologist and New York Times bestselling author, who has spent over 40 years developing EBT to help people eliminate stress overload, reverse harmful patterns, and achieve lasting emotional resilience.Dr. Mellin explains how most of our decisions are driven by the emotional brain — and why traditional “thinking” approaches fail to break deep-rooted patterns. She walks Joey through a live EBT session, revealing how to clear an “emotional blockade” in just 2 minutes, shift brain states, and activate powerful biochemical rewards that make change feel natural.✅ Top 3 Highlights:

Send us a textHow often do we really listen—without judgment, without interruption, without rushing to fix? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Zee reveals why listening is more than a parenting skill—it's a bridge to understanding and guiding the next generation.A child and adolescent psychiatrist, global youth advocate, and founder of Listen to the KidZ, Dr. Zee shares her journey from immigrant roots to leading a worldwide movement that amplifies youth voices. We dive into how adults can move from control to guidance, why “one-size-fits-all” parenting fails, and how communication can change a child's life trajectory.Whether you're a parent, teacher, leader, or mentor, this episode challenges you to look at how you engage with young people—and what you might learn in return. --- Join us for enlightening discussions that spark growth and exploration. Hosted by Joey Pinz, this Discipline Conversations Podcast offers insights and inspiration. 

Send us a textWhat does it take to go from an unknown to one of the world's top marketing thought leaders — without a big budget? In this inspiring conversation, Joey Pinz dives deep with global branding and AI strategist Vladimer Botsvadze to uncover the mindset, strategies, and authenticity that fuel lasting success.Vladimer shares how he built his personal brand organically, growing from zero followers to over 130,000 without spending a dollar on ads. He explains why context beats content, how emotional intelligence is the ultimate competitive edge in the age of AI, and why leaders must put a human face on their business to thrive.From his views on Elon Musk's branding genius to lessons learned climbing mountains and playing tennis, Vladimer delivers practical, future-proof insights for anyone aiming to grow influence, trust, and impact in a crowded digital space.

Send us a textIn this powerhouse episode, Coach Clance Laylor—Team Canada Olympic Weightlifting Coach and author of They Can't Ignore You—joins Joey Pinz to reveal what separates champions from everyone else. From sprinting with dogs in his youth to coaching elite athletes like P.K. Subban and his daughter Maya Laylor, Clance shares the raw truth about training, mindset, injury, and nutrition.We explore his intense carnivore lifestyle

Send us a textCan you legally walk away from credit card debt?

Send us a text☕️ How do you go from chemical plants to coffee blends—with integrity, intention, and grit? In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with Cameron Mauk, founder of Backbone Coffee Company, to explore how coffee became more than just a beverage—it became a symbol of blue-collar pride, spiritual grounding, and entrepreneurial resilience.

Send us a textFrom F-11 fighter jets to financial freedom, Dr. Axel Meierhoefer shares a remarkable journey of transformation and structured success. In this powerful episode, Axel reveals how military aviation instilled in him the habits, systems, and big-picture mindset that now power his real estate empire through Ideal Wealth Grower.Axel breaks down the mechanics of turnkey real estate investing and explains how you can build a thriving portfolio using just 20% of your own capital. He also unpacks the concept of the “Time Freedom Point,” where your investments replace your active income—freeing you to live on your terms.We also explore the mental models behind leadership, mastery, and how AI may reshape real estate investing in the coming decade.

Blake Lovell and Max Barr take their one and only preseason stab at filling out an 2025-26 NCAA Tournament gut bracket. March Madness is only six months away, start your countdown clocks folks. We also breakdown the recently added mid-November matchup between John Calipari's Arkansas Razorbacks and Tom Izzo's Michigan State Spartans for our way-too-early preview. ROKFORM Use promo code SEC25 for 25% off! The world's strongest magnetic phone case! https://www.rokform.com/ GAMETIME SIDEKICKS Use promo code SE16 for 20% off! http://www.gametimesidekicks.com/ SANDERS MOVING Efficient, hassle-free moving: https://www.tedrsandersmoving.com/ JOIN OUR MEMBERSHIP

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of the Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations podcast, host Joey Pinz sits down with Pete Busam, Navy veteran, marketing strategist, and founder of Equilibrium Consulting. Pete shares his inspiring journey from launching vertical missile systems aboard warships to scaling multimillion-dollar MSPs and coaching tech leaders through strategic marketing and operational maturity.Learn how Pete's nonprofit, the USS Bunker Hill Association, supports over 21,000 veterans, and why he believes discipline, process, and health are essential to success—in business and in life.They explore:

Send us a textIn this thoughtful episode of the Joey Pinz Conversations podcast, Joey is joined by Victoria Bruns, a former educator, lifelong horsewoman, and now a rising voice in human-centered cybersecurity.

Send us a textIn this energizing episode of the Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations podcast, Joey talks with Scott Barlow, Global VP of MSP and Cloud at Sophos, about how MSPs are becoming the true frontline of cybersecurity—and what vendors must do to support them.

Send us a textIn this refreshingly candid episode of the Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations podcast, Joey dives deep with Nadav Shenker, CEO of Vircom, a leading provider of email security solutions.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Joey Pinz Conversations podcast, Joey sits down with Andreas Ambuehl, co-founder and CEO of Privatam, to unpack how technology—and transparency—are transforming the future of private capital markets and global investing.

Send us a textIn this high-energy episode of the Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations podcast, Joey sits down with Ryan Walsh, founding executive of Pax8 and chair of the GTIA Member Champions, to talk teamwork, technology, and transformation.

Send us a textIn this powerhouse episode, Joey Pinz welcomes Robin Robins—industry icon, entrepreneur, and founder of Technology Marketing Toolkit—for an unfiltered, deeply personal conversation on what it really takes to succeed in the MSP world and beyond.Robin shares how she went from being homeless at 14 to building a multimillion-dollar marketing empire. She breaks down the truth behind sales vs. marketing, why most MSPs fail to scale, and what separates leaders from managers. Along the way, Robin opens up about her exit, post-sale emotions, imposter syndrome, grief, and why happiness is not the goal—impact is.This episode is raw, real, and packed with wisdom for MSPs, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing success with purpose.

Send us a textIn this action-packed episode, Joey Pinz sits down with cybersecurity veteran and ex-MSP operator Chris Loehr. From his early days as a two-footed soccer midfielder to leading Solis Security through complex ransomware response cases, Chris shares insights forged in both cleats and crisis. ⚽

Send us a textWhat do cooking steaks, German football, and MSP automation have in common? In this enriching episode, Joey Pinz chats with Mathias Zeumer about how life in the kitchen, yoga, and cybersecurity intersect in surprising ways. From 10 summers in a private club to managing human risk in the digital world, Mathias brings a grounded, practical philosophy to everything he does.

Send us a textIn this thoughtful episode of the Joey Pinz Conversations podcast, Joey sits down with Stan Ivanov, founder and  CTO of ThreatMate, to explore a decades-long journey through software development, entrepreneurship, and personal evolution.