POPULARITY
Categories
250 episodes with Vendor
77 episodes with Vendor
106 episodes with Vendor
93 episodes with Vendor
97 episodes with Vendor
38 episodes with Vendor
32 episodes with Vendor
55 episodes with Vendor
46 episodes with Vendor
41 episodes with Vendor
40 episodes with Vendor
40 episodes with Vendor
21 episodes with Vendor
34 episodes with Vendor
44 episodes with Vendor
48 episodes with Vendor
18 episodes with Vendor
15 episodes with Vendor
32 episodes with Vendor
17 episodes with Vendor
19 episodes with Vendor
18 episodes with Vendor
16 episodes with Vendor
18 episodes with Vendor
23 episodes with Vendor
14 episodes with Vendor
46 episodes with Vendor
40 episodes with Vendor
14 episodes with Vendor
12 episodes with Vendor
16 episodes with Vendor
11 episodes with Vendor
23 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
12 episodes with Vendor
11 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
18 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
10 episodes with Vendor
12 episodes with Vendor
11 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
9 episodes with Vendor
22 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
12 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
21 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
13 episodes with Vendor
9 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
10 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
12 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
2 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
10 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
10 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
9 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
2 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
2 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
6 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
10 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
5 episodes with Vendor
9 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
8 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
64 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
2 episodes with Vendor
2 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
4 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
7 episodes with Vendor
3 episodes with Vendor
Hi there boys and girls! Welcome back to another Jeep Talk Show interview episode!
What do you do if it's getting down to the wire to be in compliance with the IRS deadlines for sending vendors their 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC or filing both with the IRS, and you know you are going to be late.Keep listening. Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to reduce the potential for fraudulent payments, compliance fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 173+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: IRS Extension Form: Form 8809, Application for Extension of Time to File Information Returns https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8809IRS Extension Form: Form 15397 Application For Extension of Time to Furnish Recipient Statements https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/extension-of-time-to-furnish-statements-to-recipientsIRS Page: Information Return Penalty Charthttps://www.irs.gov/payments/information-return-penalties Customized Vendor Validations Session: https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-sessionFree Download: Vendor Validation Reference List with Resource Links https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-downloadVendor Process Training Center - https://training.debrarrichardson.comCustomized Fraud Training: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/customized-fraud-training Free Live and On-Demand Webinars: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/webinarsVendor Master File Clean-Up: https://www.debrarrichardson.com/cleanupYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqeoffeQu3pSXMV8fUIGNiw More Podcasts/Blogs/Webinars www.debrarrichardson.comMore ideas? Email me at debra@debrarrichardson.com Music Credit: www.purple-planet.com
Global channel sales in IT are projected to exceed $4 trillion this year, with two-thirds of total spending driven by partner-led deals, according to Omdia research. However, managed service providers (MSPs) continue to encounter significant integration failures following mergers and acquisitions, leading to operational inefficiencies and diminished client trust. The Business of Tech analysis highlights that stacking acquisitions without comprehensive integration amplifies risks, particularly affecting margins, service consistency, and accountability.Supporting survey data from POPX indicates that 60% of UK MSPs report platform and data integration as critical hurdles post-acquisition, while 44% identify poor morale and lack of team alignment as sources of inefficiency. Notably, 38% experienced client disruption during transitional periods, signaling that rapid growth without sufficient operational coherence creates drag rather than leverage. These issues are compounded by rising technology budgets—nearly 75% of organizations expect increased IT spending—and intensifying reliance on AI and cloud services in MSP environments.Additional stories addressed include the widespread adoption of unsanctioned "Shadow AI" tools in healthcare settings, with over 40% of workers aware of unapproved usage, and the increasing tendency for AI platforms to reference general sources like YouTube over traditional medical authorities. The episode further examines new AI-driven arbitration tools, platform consolidations within managed security, and the centralization of authority across purchasing and service delivery ecosystems. Vendor integrations, such as Synchro's marketplace partnership with Ironscales and LevelBlue's acquisition of AlertLogic's unit, illustrate a shift away from component choices towards streamlined, but potentially opaque, accountability structures.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the central takeaway is not the urgency to adopt new tools, but the necessity to clarify ownership, governance, and liability as technology platforms accelerate efficiency and centralize control. Failure to address integration fundamentals, define formal oversight for AI-driven decisions, and maintain transparency amid automation will expose service providers to unpriced risks and erode client trust. Sustained growth is contingent upon operational discipline, not just expanding portfolios. Four things to know today 00:00 Channel Growth Accelerates While MSP Integration Failures Threaten Margins and Trust03:58 New Research Shows Agentic AI Adoption Outpacing Governance and Workforce Readiness07:25 AI Interfaces, Security Consolidation, and MSP Marketplaces Point to a Shift in Where Authority Lives10:27 AAA's AI Arbitrator Shows How Automation Changes Who Owns Decisions, Not Just How Fast They're Made This is the Business of Tech. Supported by:
A CMO Confidential Interview with Rob Ward, co-founder and General Partner of Meritech Capital, a top Silicon Valley venture firm. Rob shares his take on what he calls a "super terrifying and exciting time" and provides perspective on AI receiving the most capital of any technology in history, the "durability of revenue" and how quickly start-ups are now reaching $100 million in revenue. Key topics include: why VC's focus on growth vs. profitability; the risks associated with massive long-term capital investment; why marketers should pick a "trusted advisor" as their AI partner; and why your data strategy needs "context. Tune in to hear how Astronomer handled the "Coldplay Concert Incident" which immediately became a PR classic and the "VC Foie Gras Effect."What happens when a top venture capitalist pulls back the curtain on AI, valuations, hype cycles, and what's actually working?In this episode of CMO Confidential, host Mike Linton sits down with Rob Ward, Co-Founder and General Partner at Metech Capital, to unpack the realities behind the AI boom. Rob has spent more than 26 years investing in category-defining companies like Facebook (Meta), Snowflake, NetSuite, Zipcar, and Cloudera — and he brings a rare, grounded perspective to today's AI frenzy.Together, they explore: • Why AI adoption is still early — despite explosive growth • The real risks behind inflated valuations and “AI-washing” • How VC decision-making changes during platform shifts • What marketers and executives should actually look for when choosing AI partners • Why data strategy, change management, and trust matter more than tools • What layoffs, productivity, and the future of work really look like beneath the headlines • A masterclass in crisis communications, featuring Ryan Reynolds, Gwyneth Paltrow, and ColdplayIf you're a CMO, CEO, board member, founder, or agency leader trying to make sense of AI without getting swept up in the hype — this is a must-listen conversation.New episodes of CMO Confidential drop every Tuesday.Subscribe for insider perspectives on the most misunderstood role in the C-suite.⸻Chapter Markers00:00 – Welcome to CMO Confidential00:19 – Introducing Rob Ward and today's AI conversation01:13 – Where we really are in AI adoption02:26 – Explosive AI growth: what's real vs hype03:35 – Why enterprise AI adoption is still a slog04:37 – Vendor spend, hyperscalers, and the trillion-dollar buildout06:12 – Is this an AI bubble? Public vs private market realities07:20 – Accelerating investment rounds and lack of diligence08:12 – AI-washing and durability of AI businesses09:46 – Proof-of-concepts, switching costs, and fragile loyalty10:55 – Big Tech vs startups: why this cycle is different11:40 – Why VCs chase platform shifts despite the risks13:05 – How AI is changing profitability and headcount math16:11 – “FOGRA” investing and capital distortion17:00 – Circular investing and data-center risk18:23 – Data centers, GPUs, and betting on the wrong future19:38 – Credit default swaps and financial warning signs21:45 – How executives should choose AI vendors22:58 – Change management and why culture matters most24:09 – Why data strategy is the real AI strategy26:36 – “Frequently wrong, never in doubt” and AI hallucinations27:01 – Practical AI use cases for marketers30:00 – Layoffs, productivity, and what's really happening to jobs33:05 – The best questions to spot real AI fluency35:00 – AI safety, geopolitics, and long-term risks36:38 – Crisis management masterclass: Astronomer, Coldplay & Ryan Reynolds39:58 – Final advice and closing thoughts⸻Comma-Separated TagsCMO Confidential, AI strategy, artificial intelligence, venture capital, Rob Ward, Metech Capital, AI adoption, AI hype, AI bubble, enterprise AI, generative AI, AI in marketing, CMO leadership, marketing leadership, venture investing, AI vendors, data strategy, change management, AI readiness, tech valuations, AI infrastructure, data centers, future of work, AI layoffs, crisis communications, brand crisis management, Ryan Reynolds marketing, Gwyneth Paltrow Astronomer, Coldplay controversy, Silicon Valley, marketing podcast, C-suite leadershipSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Serious Sellers Podcast en Español: Aprende a Vender en Amazon
En este episodio del Serious Sellers Podcast en Español, Adriana Rangel conversa con Jordi Ordóñez sobre los cambios más recientes en el programa Amazon Vendor, incluyendo cierres de cuentas por rentabilidad y la creciente necesidad de migrar a modelos híbridos Seller + Vendor. Jordi explica los riesgos actuales del modelo Vendor y qué deben hacer las marcas para prepararse operativamente ante una posible migración forzada a Marketplace. Además, profundizan en el rol cada vez más dominante de Rufus, la IA de Amazon, y cómo está redefiniendo el posicionamiento de productos. Se habla de semántica, reputación de marca dentro y fuera de Amazon, tráfico externo, autoridad, y por qué el branding y la publicidad (pagada y orgánica) serán claves para seguir siendo visibles en Amazon y en el ecosistema de IA. En el episodio #192 de Serious Sellers Podcast en Español, platicamos de: 00:00 - Introducción y bienvenida 01:20 - Qué es Amazon Vendor y su situación actual 03:20 - Cierres de cuentas Vendor y nuevas exigencias 4:30 - Migrar de Vendor a Seller: retos reales 6:40 - Modelos híbridos y agencias como solución 9:25 - Rufus: la nueva IA de Amazon 10:30 - Cómo Rufus decide qué productos mostrar 14:20 - Semántica y prompts para rankear mejor 16:20 - Usos del producto y keywords semánticas 19:20 - Branding externo y autoridad de marca 22:00 - Social commerce y tráfico hacia Amazon 23:50 - Estrategia multicanal: branding vs performance 25:35 - Dónde encontrar a Jordi y cierre
Apple @ Work is exclusively brought to you by Mosyle, the only Apple Unified Platform. Mosyle is the only solution that integrates in a single professional-grade platform all the solutions necessary to seamlessly and automatically deploy, manage & protect Apple devices at work. Over 45,000 organizations trust Mosyle to make millions of Apple devices work-ready with no effort and at an affordable cost. Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today and understand why Mosyle is everything you need to work with Apple. In this episode of Apple @ Work, we finish up our 2-part series about AI and networking with Aruna Ravichandran, SVP & CMO - Collaboration, Enterprise Networking, at Cisco Links What is agentic operations (AgenticOps)? Listen and subscribe Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Pocket Casts Castro RSS Listen to Past Episodes
We're diving into the latest in the auto world, bringing you essential car news and practical car tips. Whether you're navigating car sales or seeking car advice, our experts answer your car questions answered. Tune in to learn how to buy a car smart! Join us on the Jeep Talk Show for an epic conversation with Derek "Diesel" Meyer – lifelong Jeep fanatic, co-founder of the legendary Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion, and General Manager at Graff Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Rockford, Michigan! In this fun, no-holds-barred interview, Diesel dives deep into: - The Jeep wave debate: Do you wave at Gladiators, XJs, or even 392s with those gold tow hooks?
Escalating distrust in identity systems and misuse of AI are forcing a shift in security accountability for small and midsize businesses. Recent analysis highlights that the prevalence of deepfake-driven business email compromise and non-human digital identities is eroding confidence in traditional protective solutions. According to Techyle and supporting reports referenced by Dave Sobel, the ratio of non-human to human identities in organizations is now 144:1, further complicating authority and responsibility for managed service providers (MSPs). As trust in exclusive third-party control disintegrates, co-managed security models are becoming standard, repositioning decision-making and liability.The rise of AI-generated data—described as “AI slop”—has prompted increased adoption of zero trust models, with 84% of CIOs reportedly increasing funding for generative AI initiatives. However, as rogue AI agents are recognized as a significant insider threat, current security services are often ill-equipped to manage these new vulnerabilities. Regulatory bodies, including CISA, have issued guidance noting that the integration of AI into critical infrastructure introduces greater risk of outages and security breaches, particularly when governance remains ambiguous. High-profile vulnerabilities in open-source AI platforms used within cloud environments further highlight the persistence of operational risks.Adjacent technology updates include new releases from vendors such as 1Password, WatchGuard, JumpCloud, and ControlUp. These offerings focus on enhancing phishing prevention, expanding managed detection and response, and automating endpoint management for MSPs. However, Dave Sobel emphasizes that these tools introduce additional layers of automation and integration without adequately clarifying who ultimately holds authority and accountability when failures or breaches occur. There is a consistent warning that stacking solutions or outsourcing core functions without redefining operational control creates gaps between action and oversight.For MSPs and IT leaders, the key takeaway is that security risk is no longer defined by missing technology but by unclear governance, undefined authority, and misaligned incentives. Without explicit contractual and operational delineation of responsibility when deploying AI and automation, service providers are increasingly exposed to liability by default. The advice is to move beyond tool-centric strategies and focus on process clarity: define who authorizes, audits, and terminates non-human identities; establish which parties approve automation actions; and ensure clients understand shared responsibilities to mitigate silent risk accumulation. Four things to know today00:00 TechAisle Warns SMB Security Will Shift in 2026 as Identity Attacks and AI Agents Redefine Risk05:44 AI Moves Deeper Into Critical Infrastructure as Open-Source and Human Weaknesses Expand the Attack Surface09:35 MSP Security Platforms Automate Phishing Prevention and MDR—Outpacing Governance and Control Models12:12 AI-Powered MSP Tools Promise Control and Efficiency, But Shift Responsibility by Default This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://scalepad.com/dave/
In the world of modern leadership, influence is an essential skill—often making the difference between teams that thrive and those that merely survive. Yet, many leaders misunderstand what it truly means to influence others. Rather than relying on authority or formal power, effective influence is grounded in building meaningful relationships, understanding others' goals, and fostering an environment of collaboration and trust. This episode explores how intentional relationship-building can create lasting value and resilience within organizations. Listeners will discover the missteps leaders often make, strategies to build credibility before a crisis arises, and how core values such as empathy, transparency, and accountability can transform a team's culture and performance. Whether facing disengaged teams, skeptical stakeholders, or the need for strategic change, mastering authentic influence is a leadership necessity for sustained success. Timestamped Overview [00:04:51] The True Nature of Influence: Why leaders often get it wrong out of the gate and the importance of building relationships proactively. [00:06:15] Building Emotional Bank Accounts: Why it's crucial to establish genuine connections before problems emerge. [00:07:55] Facing Fear and Setting Expectations: The psychological barriers that keep leaders behind their desks and how to encourage team outreach. [00:09:51] Shifting Culture: Moving from a reactive, “fire drill” mentality to a customer-oriented, proactive organization. [00:10:52] Family-First Culture and Retention: How focusing on values like work-life balance can outperform higher salaries in employee retention. [00:12:50] Modeling Healthy Work Habits: Practices like delayed email responses and empowering team members during leadership absences. [00:14:58] The Power of Trust: How trust frees teams to innovate, take accountability, and focus on organizational priorities. [00:16:52] Vendor and Partner Relationships: Turning unhappy users into advocates and transforming vendor partnerships for campus-wide success. [00:19:20] Strategic Vendor Management: Proactive, ongoing communication and how relationships drive better deals and outcomes. [00:21:28] The Three Principles of Influence: Understanding goals, managing expectations, and genuinely caring about others' success. [00:24:08] The Courage to Say “Whoa!”: How to slow down, clarify expectations, and ensure quality under pressure. [00:28:09] Influencing Teams: Aligning strategy, setting clear goals, and sharing accountability. [00:31:15] Transparent Communication: Weekly blogs, consistent messaging, and the role of humility in admitting mistakes. [00:33:25] Crisis Preparedness: Tabletop exercises, emergency planning, and learning from military-inspired response strategies. [00:35:41] Relationship Mapping: Strategically identifying who to build relationships with and making it a regular practice. For the complete show notes be sure to check out our website: https://leaddontboss.com/360
Don't forget to still do your tax reporting research at the State level, even if that State participates in the Combined Federal/State Filing (CF/SF) Program. For two reasons you still need to check and a process to do it….Keep listening.Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to reduce the potential for fraudulent payments, compliance fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 173+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: IRS Publication 1220: Specifications for Electronic Filing of Forms 1097, 1098, 1099, 3921, 3922, 5498,IRS Publication 5717: Information Returns Intake System (IRIS) Taxpayer Portal User Guide Vendor Process Training Center > Resource Library: State Sites for Business/Tax ResearchCustomized Vendor Validations Session: https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-sessionFree Download: Vendor Validation Reference List with Resource Links https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-downloadVendor Process Training Center - https://training.debrarrichardson.comCustomized Fraud Training: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/customized-fraud-training Free Live and On-Demand Webinars: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/webinarsVendor Master File Clean-Up: https://www.debrarrichardson.com/cleanupYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqeoffeQu3pSXMV8fUIGNiw More Podcasts/Blogs/Webinars www.debrarrichardson.comMore ideas? Email me at debra@debrarrichardson.com Music Credit: www.purple-planet.com
Brianne Mees, CEO of Tender Loving Empire, shares how a people-first background in psychology and social work shaped the culture of a retail brand built to champion artists, makers, and small businesses. Brianne walks through the company's growth from a scrappy early storefront to seven locations (including airport stores), the toughest leadership decisions during the pandemic, and why mission alignment is the anchor for hiring and culture. Brandon and Brianne also explore "regenerative retail," community investing through Wefunder, and how leaders can build a business that supports local economies without losing sight of sustainability and scale. Key Timestamps 00:00 What the show is about + sponsor message from Xenium HR 01:00 Introducing Brianne Mees and the Tender Loving Empire mission 03:00 Brianne's unconventional path: psychology, social work, and a people-first approach 04:40 Why Tender Loving Empire started as a "helping profession" for artists and makers 05:00 The business today: seven retail locations, hundreds of makers, and a record label 06:00 The early days: starting before major online platforms existed for creators 07:00 The turning point: moving locations, hiring the first employee, and shifting from hobby to sustainable business 08:40 How Brianne's psychology background supported hiring and leadership 09:20 Scaling a creative retail brand into airports without losing the "feel" 10:00 Becoming "Portland tour guides" and translating local culture for travelers 12:00 Leading through the pandemic: scrappiness, resilience, and hard choices 13:00 The toughest day: furloughing the team while keeping leadership in place 13:50 Post-pandemic momentum: new airport locations and +$3M in annual revenue 14:10 How they keep 65 employees aligned: mission fit and kindness 15:20 The "Empire" name origin and the heart of the brand 15:40 The impact: celebrating $20M returned to artists and makers 16:00 Vendor selection today: buying team, data-driven decisions, and mission alignment 17:00 The ripple effect: vendors who reinvest through sustainability and social impact 18:00 Geographic focus: Portland and the broader Pacific Northwest 19:00 Why music remains the heart and soul of the brand 19:10 Why Tender Loving Empire chose Wefunder and community investing 20:40 Why VC is not the right fit for a values-based retail brand 21:20 How their Wefunder raise works: $1.2M goal and a convertible note approach 23:00 Advice to her 2007 self: confidence, trusting instincts, and staying close to the core 25:00 Preparing leaders for the next growth phase: transparency and sharing the full vision 27:20 What keeps Brianne going on tough days: impact, community, and walking into the stores 28:50 "Regenerative retail" explained: supporting communities vs. extracting from them 29:50 A first step for leaders: rethink suppliers and where resources flow 30:30 AI and the creator economy: efficiency benefits vs. IP and compensation concerns 33:00 Founder advice: grit, tenacity, support systems, and learning along the way 33:40 Closing: how listeners can support Tender Loving Empire and invest (starting at $100) 34:00 Podcast disclaimer and wrap-up A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders." About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/] Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws] Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR
Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down for a raw, unscripted conversation about real life, business pressure, community, grief, and navigating uncertainty when things don't go according to plan.What starts as a casual catch-up quickly turns into a deep reflection on survival vs thriving, the emotional weight of January, and the reminder that nothing is guaranteed. From losing someone whose message still echoes loud, to questioning every next move, this episode captures what it feels like to keep showing up when the path forward isn't clear yet.We talk about:Why last year felt like survival mode — and the desire for less panic, less stress, more abundanceLosing someone important and carrying their message forwardThe danger of “I'll live later” thinkingVendor shows: what worked, what didn't, and what we learnedUsing what you already have instead of over-spendingBooth setup mistakes, display clarity, and engagement tipsPricing, pivoting, and adapting in real timeThis episode is honest, reflective, and deeply relatable for creators, makers, and small business owners who feel like they're constantly adjusting while trying to stay hopeful.If you've ever questioned your direction, felt stuck in a pivot, or wondered if you're being pushed toward something bigger—you're not alone.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlackWant more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.
The Intro to AOX Course is coming to Tempe, AZ! Join us for a hands-on deep dive into the clinical and business systems behind predictable full-arch success. Seats are limited - register now to secure your spot. https://products.sharedpractices.com/tfap-intro-to-aox-2026 In this episode of The Full Arch Podcast, Dr. Steven Vorholt reflects on the role vendor relationships play in a long, sustainable dental career — and why the strongest partnerships are built on trust, credibility, and consistency, not quick wins. Rather than treating vendor relationships as transactional, the conversation reframes them as extensions of professional reputation. Dr. Vorholt shares how showing up with integrity, delivering real clinical value, and maintaining a long-term perspective opens doors to mentorship, education opportunities, and meaningful collaboration over time. This episode emphasizes that credibility is earned quietly, relationships compound slowly, and the most impactful partnerships are rooted in alignment — not promotion. Key Highlights: Relationships Over Transactions – Why long-term trust matters more than short-term opportunities Credibility Comes First – How clinical consistency and professionalism build real leverage The Long Game – Why patience, alignment, and reputation shape sustainable partnerships
In this episode of Eye on AI, we sit down with Evan Reiser, co-founder and CEO of Abnormal AI, to unpack how AI has fundamentally changed the cybersecurity landscape. We explore why social engineering remains the most costly form of cybercrime, how generative AI has lowered the barrier for sophisticated attacks, and why humans have become the primary attack surface in modern security. Evan explains why traditional, signature-based defenses fall short, how behavioral AI detects threats that have never existed before, and what it means to build security systems that understand how people actually work and communicate. The conversation also looks ahead at the AI arms race between attackers and defenders, the economics driving cybercrime, and what it truly means to be an AI-native company operating at scale. This episode is a deep dive into the human side of AI security and why the future of cybersecurity depends less on code and more on behavior. Stay Updated: Craig Smith on X: https://x.com/craigss Eye on A.I. on X: https://x.com/EyeOn_AI (00:00) Abnormal AI's origin (02:31) Why phishing is still the biggest threat (05:57) How attackers manipulate human trust (10:05) The true cost of social engineering (11:58) Vendor account compromise explained (15:02) How AI changed cyber attacks (16:28) Behavioral security vs traditional defenses (19:55) Where Abnormal fits in the security stack (22:24) Human psychology as the attack surface (24:01) Why cyber defense is asymmetric (28:48) Humans as the new zero-day (31:01) Why attackers target people, not systems (33:21) Behavioral modeling from ads to security (36:10) Why money drives almost all attacks (40:06) What happens after credentials are stolen (42:18) Text scams and lateral movement (43:55) What it means to be AI-native (47:13) How Abnormal uses AI internally
My head is starting to hurt as clients, subscribers and others reach out to ask about the impact of the IRS draft form W-9. More and more questions are arising and I have 5 that you should start thinking about….Keep listening. Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to reduce the potential for fraudulent payments, compliance fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 173+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: IRS Form W-9: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw9.pdf Customized Vendor Validations Session: https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-sessionFree Download: Vendor Validation Reference List with Resource Links https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-downloadVendor Process Training Center - https://training.debrarrichardson.comCustomized Fraud Training: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/customized-fraud-training Free Live and On-Demand Webinars: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/webinarsVendor Master File Clean-Up: https://www.debrarrichardson.com/cleanupYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqeoffeQu3pSXMV8fUIGNiw More Podcasts/Blogs/Webinars www.debrarrichardson.comMore ideas? Email me at debra@debrarrichardson.com Music Credit: www.purple-planet.com
This episode examines why growing concern over AI-driven skills obsolescence is less about workforce displacement and more about authority, accountability, and liability for MSPs. As AI systems increasingly triage tickets, remediate issues, and shape outcomes, MSPs are absorbing responsibility for decisions made by tools they did not design and cannot fully audit. The mismatch between AI-driven operations and pre-AI contracts, SLAs, and pricing models creates a widening risk gap that directly threatens margins and client trust. The show then turns to AI infrastructure, focusing on Microsoft's response to rising power and water costs tied to data center expansion. While public commitments emphasize cost control and community investment, the underlying reality for IT service providers is continued volatility. AI workloads remain energy-intensive and politically sensitive, and those costs are likely to be passed downstream. MSPs that price AI-dependent services on today's assumptions risk margin erosion when infrastructure costs shift faster than contracts can be updated.Next, the episode explores how workplace AI tools from Anthropic and Slack are moving beyond assistance into shaping finished work. By summarizing conversations, organizing files, and producing artifacts that become the default record, these tools quietly define “what happened.” For MSPs, this pulls them deeper into advisory territory, as AI-generated outputs influence decisions, accountability, and client understanding—often without clear acknowledgment of what context or nuance was lost. Finally, the episode connects a wave of AI-driven acquisitions to a single strategic thread: vendors racing to own not just insight, but action. As platforms consolidate signals across usage, identity, cost, and observability, the pause between insight and execution disappears. For MSPs, the risk is not being replaced outright, but being sidelined as platforms decide faster than humans can intervene. The path forward is not resisting consolidation, but asserting value where judgment, context, and governance still matter.Four things to know today00:00 Report Warns 40 Percent of IT Skills May Become Obsolete as AI Reshapes Work04:42 Microsoft's AI Data Center Commitments Highlight the Growing Cost and Governance Risks of AI Infrastructure07:16 Anthropic and Slack Expand AI From Assistance to Shaping Finished Work11:00 AI-Driven Acquisitions Show Vendors Consolidating Signals to Move Faster From Insight to Action Supported by: https://cometbackup.com/
Slowing U.S. job growth alongside rising labor productivity highlights how organizations are replacing hiring with automation and AI-driven systems. Government labor data shows job growth in 2025 fell to roughly 584,000 positions, while productivity rose nearly five percent in the third quarter, allowing output to increase without additional staff. According to CompTIA, demand for AI-related skills rose more than 100 percent year over year, even as overall tech employment declined. For MSPs, this signals a shift where customers rely less on internal teams and more on external providers to absorb operational responsibility when automated systems fail.Survey data from TechAisle indicates that small and midmarket businesses are redirecting technology spending away from basic digitization toward autonomous, outcome-driven systems. The research, based on responses from 5,500 firms, shows profitable growth and cost control as top priorities for 2026, with increased adoption of generative AI, agentic automation, and managed security services. At the same time, rising RAM and storage prices—driven by AI data center demand, according to TrendForce—are delaying PC refresh cycles and pushing workloads into cloud environments, changing where performance, security, and cost risks surface.Vendor signals remain mixed. Kaseya reported layoffs affecting five percent of its workforce, following earlier reductions, while TD Synnex and Samsung reported strong revenue growth tied to AI infrastructure, memory, and server demand. Distributors cite continued hardware refresh activity, yet repeated workforce cuts at vendors suggest internal cost corrections rather than demand collapse. For MSPs, this combination increases environmental complexity, with longer device lifecycles, higher component costs, and more heterogeneous platforms to support.Operational AI announcements further extend decision-making authority into automated systems. New healthcare, printing, and service desk tools embed AI into intake, routing, authorization, and workflow execution, often acting before human review. For MSPs and IT service providers, the central issue is not efficiency gains but accountability: when AI-driven processes misroute work, generate compliance errors, or escalate incidents incorrectly, responsibility frequently defaults to the operator. The episode underscores the need for clearer governance, pricing, and contractual boundaries as AI assumes functional authority inside managed environments. Four things to know today 00:00 Slowing Job Growth, Rising Productivity, and AI Adoption Shift Operational Responsibility to Providers05:26 TechAisle Data Shows SMB Focus Moving From Digitization to Autonomous, Outcome-Driven Systems09:19 Kaseya Cuts Staff as Distributors and Chipmakers Report Strong AI-Driven Demand14:27 Operational AI Advances as Vendors Embed Automation Into Intake, Routing, and Authorization This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship
Today's guest is Matej Zachar, CIO and CISO at Kontent.ai. Founded in 2015, Kontent.ai help content-driven organizations in regulated industries like healthcare and insurance overcome complex content challenges. They do this by bringing complete control and efficiency to every aspect of content management. At the core of Kontent.ai's work is a commitment to helping clients streamline content operations, reduce risk and enable teams to deliver high-quality content at scale.Matej Zachar is a security, privacy and IT executive with a track record of leading award-winning teams. He has built numerous security, privacy and IT programs and managed the security of over 400 products and cloud services. At Kontent.ai, he owns the IT and security strategies and programs, leads both IT and Security Team, and manages risks. He is also the chair of the Security Steering Committee, a member of the Responsible AI Committee, Privacy Team and Corporate Compliance Committee.In this episode, Matej talks about:0:00 His career working at the intersection of AI and Cybersecurity2:20 Secure AI governance builds trust amid evolving regulations4:33 How AI governance reveals reliance on vendors and data risks6:14 Vendor negotiations depend on company size and bargaining power7:27 Why AI adoption and customer sentiment are key success measures8:57 Advice to stay curious, adapt to change and commit to continuous learning9:58 Risk rises with understaffing and AI-driven phishing attacks12:30 How automation effectively speeds up tedious security tasks and triageTo find out more about all the great work happening at Kontent.ai, check out the website www.kontent.ai
In this episode, we dissect the dangerous trend of organizations ceding control of their security strategy to vendors, exploring the pitfalls of vendor lock-in, overspending, and the illusion of comprehensive protection. We'll provide actionable steps to reclaim your security posture and build an independent strategy tailored to your specific needs.Blog: https://offsec.blog/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cyberthreatpovTwitter: https://x.com/cyberthreatpov Follow Spencer on social ⬇Spencer's Links: https://go.spenceralessi.com/links Work with Us: https://securit360.com | Find vulnerabilities that matter, learn about how we do internal pentesting here.
My guest is Jason Dinesen, and he and I discuss the IRS draft version of the IRS Form W9 with a revision date of January 2026. We address questions such as will it really be published in January? What you should do before it's published, what you should do after, including why this revision may require action for the vendor team that was not required with recent revisions…. Keep listening. Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to reduce the potential for fraudulent payments, compliance fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 173+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: Jason Dinesen YouTube Channel: Accounting in the Wild Customized Vendor Validations Session: https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-sessionFree Download: Vendor Validation Reference List with Resource Links Vendor Process Training Center - https://training.debrarrichardson.comCustomized Fraud Training: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/customized-fraud-training Free Live and On-Demand Webinars: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/webinarsVendor Master File Clean-Up: https://www.debrarrichardson.com/cleanupYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqeoffeQu3pSXMV8fUIGNiw More Podcasts/Blogs/Webinars www.debrarrichardson.comMore ideas? Email me at debra@debrarrichardson.com Music Credit: www.purple-planet.com
Carmela Then: From Requirements Chaos to Story Mapping Success—How Planning Transforms Agile Teams Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes. "We can't continue to do this. Something has to change." - Carmela Then Carmela shares a story of organizational chaos that will resonate with many Agile practitioners. She joined a company where teams would jump straight into writing requirements without pausing to understand what they were trying to achieve. Vendor deliverables were thrown "over the fence" to internal technology teams with the assumption that everyone would magically know what to do. For almost a year, this pattern continued: teams writing stories on the fly while building, creating massive rework, confusion, and burnout. The Product Owner faced constant stakeholder disappointment, having to explain what wasn't delivered and why. Then came the breakthrough moment—the PO reached out and said, "We can't continue to do this." Carmela introduced a structured approach: workshops that brought business stakeholders and subject matter experts together to walk through end-to-end business processes. She implemented story mapping—visualizing the journey from beginning to end, with each major step broken into smaller, actionable stories. Critically, she built in feedback loops: playback sessions where the team validated their understanding with stakeholders before committing to development. The result? Teams could now distinguish between well-understood work they could start immediately and the "hairy" items that needed more investigation. The Product Owner could make informed prioritization decisions, and the entire team gained visibility into the bigger picture. Self-reflection Question: How often does your team pause to map the full end-to-end journey before diving into requirements, and what might you be missing by skipping this step? [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]
As the new year unfolds, the Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce is buzzing with excitement and preparation. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Niki Foster for a lively conversation about the organization's signature events and the many ways residents and members can get involved. Their discussion, filled with warmth and humor, offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the planning, passion, and community spirit that drive the Chamber's work. Stargazers Gala: A Night to Remember First and foremost, Niki shares details about the much-anticipated annual dinner and awards gala, set for January 22nd. This year's theme, the "Stargazers Gala," promises an evening that is both elegant and imaginative, blending simplicity with extravagance. After a pandemic-induced hiatus, the event returns, bringing together business leaders, community members, and friends for a night of celebration. The gala will feature a range of awards, including the traditional Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year (now split into small and large business categories), Non-Profit of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year. Notably, the Chamber is introducing the new Community Spark Plug Award, designed to honor those unsung heroes who light up the community with their dedication and energy. Nominations are open to the public until January 12th, and Niki encourages everyone to participate, emphasizing the importance of community input in recognizing local achievements. Opportunities for Involvement Transitioning from awards to action, Niki highlights the many ways individuals and businesses can support the gala. Sponsorships, ticket packages, and program ads offer opportunities for involvement at every level. The event will also feature a tailored auction, with themed baskets and packages replacing the traditional table of miscellaneous items. Donations are welcome, and Niki assures listeners that every contribution helps make the evening special. Dress code? "Come as you are," Niki insists. Whether attendees prefer business casual or glittering evening wear, the focus is on comfort and camaraderie, not formality. Wine and Craft Festival: Vendor Diversity and Community Fun Looking ahead, the conversation shifts to the Chamber's next major event: the Wine and Craft Festival. Vendor applications are already pouring in, and Niki explains the careful curation process that ensures a diverse and engaging lineup. From 3D-printed goods to handmade jewelry, pottery, and even pickles, the festival celebrates creativity and variety. However, space is limited, and Niki urges interested vendors to apply early to avoid disappointment. Organizing such a large-scale event is no small feat. Niki and Janet reminisce about the logistical challenges—like moving porta-potties late at night and managing vendor placements—that come with the territory. Yet, they agree, the rewards of seeing the community come together make every hurdle worthwhile. The Power of Participation Beyond headline events, the Chamber offers numerous avenues for engagement. Committees that focus on business development, legislative affairs, and nonprofit collaboration provide members with opportunities to shape the local landscape. Niki also mentions the Chamber 101 sessions, designed to introduce new and prospective members to the organization's offerings and encourage deeper involvement. Staying in the know is easy, thanks to the Chamber's e-newsletter, "eConnections," which is open to both members and the public. Janet and Niki stress that many Chamber events, such as the Christmas Parade and Wine and Craft Festival, are designed for the entire community, not just members. A Call to Action As the conversation draws to a close, Niki and Janet reflect on the importance of community connection. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or simply staying informed, every resident has a role to play in making Front Royal a vibrant place to live and work. With a full calendar ahead and a spirit of inclusivity, the Chamber invites everyone to join in the celebration. For more information on upcoming events, nominations, or ways to get involved, visit the Front Royal Chamber of Commerce website: frontroyalchamber.com or follow them on social media. As Niki and Janet remind us, community is built by those who show up—and there's always room for one more at the table.
Bio: Adam Baruchowitz, Chief Recycling Officer at Return to Vendor, is a pioneer in textile recycling. He began collecting and recycling clothing as a personal project and has now recycled over 35 million lbs. of clothing and textiles. He began his career as a day trader, building and managing a team of 15 people. In 2001, he co-founded HEEB Magazine, one of the highest circulated Jewish culture magazines in the world. Adam has 15 years of experience creating collection hubs for municipalities, apartment buildings, organizations and fashion brands. This episode is sponsored by the coaching company of the host, Paul Zelizer. Consider a Strategy Session if you can use support growing your impact business. Resources mentioned in this episode include: RTV site RTV Forbes article on circularity RTV Stretch product Paul's Fractional Services Pitch an Awarepreneurs episode
There's something strange about founders who built their entire business on open source software and open standards, then turn around and say you should lock customers in as hard as possible. I think that's a horrible practice—and counterintuitively, making it easy to leave actually makes people stay longer. Today I'm making the case for frictionless import and export, with real examples from PermanentLink and lessons from Fathom Analytics, and why informed choice beats artificial lock-in every time.This episode of The Bootstraped Founder is sponsored by Paddle.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-case-against-vendor-lock-in-why-easy-exit-means-better-retention/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/430-the-case-against-vendor-lock-in-why-easy-exit-means-better-retention Check out Podscan, the Podcast database that transcribes every podcast episode out there minutes after it gets released: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
In this episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan Draper is joined by Jared Ingalls, Vice President of Sales at Pest Management Supply, to unpack one of the most overlooked growth levers in pest control: your relationship with your distributor.With more than 30 years in the industry, Jared shares what most new (and even experienced) pest control owners get wrong about suppliers and why treating them as true partners can save you money, time, and costly mistakes. From helping new operators get licensed and set up correctly, to answering late-night calls, solving tough infestations, and connecting owners with manufacturers, this episode goes far beyond product pricing.Allan and Jared also dive into:How to choose the right supplier when starting a pest control companyWhy transactional relationships fail during real-world emergenciesSmart, low-cost marketing strategies like private-labeled glue boardsHow distributors can help control product costs and improve technician performanceThe long-term value of face-to-face relationships in a regulated industryIf you've ever treated your supplier as “just a place to buy chemicals,” this episode will change how you think about vendor relationships and how they impact your growth, retention, and reputation.A must-listen for owners who want to build smarter, not just bigger.
Thank you for an incredible 2025!
LIKEITORNOT is back! It's the final episode from a day long, 3 part mini series that took place at Diamond Greens for Kush Mountains first ever Tacoma vendor day. This one is hilarious and informative as the legendary Chris Crayzie joins for some of the hottest of hot takes and Jess from Jess's Kusina joins to talk about her business in the local dessert industry and Kat who represents Diamond Greens, joins in on the fun and lets us know what the future holds for DG as far as pop ups, local events they'll be part of and a few other surprises that you'll have to listen in for. Hope y'all enjoyed this unedited, daylong series though. Last but not least, a huge s/o to Rich, of All Star Vintage for putting this altogether, LIKEITORNOT
PhoneBoy interviews Cyber Security Technologist and Evangelist Marc Davidson discussing his recent blog posts on Hybrid Mesh and credential theft when a question was asked: how do you ensure policies are implemented consistently across vendors. We also talk about the release of R82.10, which we did a TechTalk on a few weeks back.
Astral Trap & Kiandre of the experimental rap duo Quismah join the podcast live from the Kush Mountain vendor day at Diamond Greens Dispensary off S. 12th street. Sean Brooks co-hosts with me and we hit the pavement running in this funny, kush mountain laced episode that touches on the origins of Quismah, how they came together and the entire recording process and how they feed off each other's creativity to make your listening as smooth as possible. When listening, it sounds as though they've been making music together for years. Truth is, they've been friends since the sandbox but just recently began this current music project together in this last summer. Kiandre talks about a stint in the film industry in LA and that opened his eyes to how the music industry works and Astral Trap speaks on his recent successes such as having numerous beats purchased and played by the NBA on their Instagram posts which is a major win for Astral Trap. Just a funny & Stoney episode where we are just shooting the shit like regular humans about basic, every day topics. Tune in. LIKEITORNOT
Summary Tune into "Adventures in Legaltech" for an engaging talk with Caspar Roxburgh, GM of Draftable. Discover how to tackle the infamous Word doc track changes mishap, get insights on law firm tech overload solutions, and explore fresh paths in legal technology innovation.
On this episode, I cover more issues caused by recent Windows updates, the most recent AI news and more! Reference Links: https://www.rorymon.com/blog/update-causing-remoteapp-connection-issues-vendor-ditches-32-bit-app-global-teams-outage/
Welcome to the award-winning FCPA Compliance Report, the longest running podcast in compliance. In this episode, Tom welcomes Stephanie Font from Diligent delve into the intricate landscape of compliance challenges anticipated in 2026 and beyond. The discussion focuses on the dynamic regulatory environment, specifically around export control, sanctions, and vendor risk. Stephanie shares insights from her extensive background in due diligence, discussing how the scope and focus of due diligence have expanded over the years. The webinar covers compliance challenges associated with BIS and export control compliance, especially the affiliate rule, and the complexities surrounding China-related risk management. Additionally, they explore the DOJ National Security Division's Data Security Program and its impact on compliance. The session emphasizes the necessity of a robust process to manage regulatory instability, highlighting the importance of proactive documentation, risk audits, and continuous monitoring. Resources Stephanie Font on LinkedIn Diligent Website Tom Fox Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are you a vendor or a partner? Whitney Ferris argues that "transactional selling" is a relic of the past. To survive today's complex B2B landscape, you must master the human elements of the deal. High-impact performers focus on three pillars: Meaningful Urgency: Tying solutions to real business risks, not fake deadlines. Radical Consistency: Building an untouchable reputation through reliable follow-through. Ethical Outcomes: Prioritizing "win-win" deals that ensure long-term referrals. By balancing disciplined preparation with genuine empathy, you transform your sales desk into a value engine.
In this episode, Claire Souch is joined by Tom Philp, CEO of Maximum Information; James Lay, AVP of Product Management at Verisk; and Stephen Martin, Head of Catastrophe Modelling at Westfield Specialty, for a timely discussion on the future of catastrophe model evaluation, and why it's no longer enough to simply trust what's in the black box. As new specialist model vendors emerge and market expectations evolve, the panel unpacks a growing demand for transparency, interoperability and smarter ways to adopt models that fit real-world portfolios. At the heart of the conversation is a shared belief: the industry doesn't just need more models, it needs better ways to evaluate and use them. In this conversation, they explore: Why traditional model validation no longer meets the needs of modern risk teams The shift from 'black box' outputs to meaningful model evaluation that supports business decisions How tools from Maximum Information and Verisk's Model Exchange reduce the burden on small or lean teams The role of Oasis as a framework for opening up access across multiple model vendors Why standardisation and open data formats are essential for meaningful interoperability The growing role of niche vendors in reshaping perceptions of model transparency How automation is changing the regulatory and investor reporting game Why this is more than a tech upgrade—it's a cultural reset in catastrophe modelling Sign up to the InsTech newsletter for a fresh view on the world every Wednesday morning.
Send us a textand then went in all sorts of interesting rabbit holes. Link on the CUR data pipeline open source tool: https://ecos-labs.io/Merry Christmas everyone and see you in 2026
We're baaaack! Part 1 of a 3 part series where I took my LIKEITORNOT podcast inside the doors of local Tacoma dispensary Diamond Greens and sat down with the bud extraordinaire's from Kush Mountain- who held their first vendor day in the Tac town. Sit back and listen to some funny and wild ass stories that are told by the 3 man collective that is Kush Mountain. Tune in also as Mark, Andy and an unnamed associate talk about the importance of educating yourself about cannabis and cannabis products to simply expand your horizons and keep you safe while getting higher than the midnight sky. Also, find all KM products in Diamond Greens on 12th street in the same parking lot as that massage parlor and Flipping Out Burgers is at. It's a quick listen too and I promise you'll find these entertaining, LIKEITORNOT
Holidays are the best times for cybercriminals – they know we are busy trying to get out of the office and all they need is the information we typically include in an Out of Office automated email reply. Don't give it to them – use these best practices to not let your absence lead to payment fraud. Keep listening. Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to prevent fraudulent payments, regulatory fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 116+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: Mailguard Article:
Ransomware payments may be falling, but attackers are not retreating—they are shifting their focus upstream to hypervisors, where a single compromise can undo years of layered security investment. This change fundamentally alters the risk equation for MSPs whose architectures emphasize shared infrastructure and efficiency. Lower payments reflect reduced victim capacity, not reduced attacker effectiveness, forcing adversaries to increase the impact of each successful breach. Recovery speed, architectural resilience, and catastrophic-failure planning now matter more than detection narratives.At the same time, regulators are tightening expectations around AI safety while modernization funding stalls. State attorneys general are warning major AI vendors about harmful outcomes involving minors, even as Congress allows critical federal IT modernization funding to lapse. This leaves implementers operating in environments where AI is treated as production infrastructure but lacks the controls, funding, and policy clarity required to manage risk. In these conditions, responsibility concentrates on service providers without corresponding authority.Concerns over AI transparency deepen as OpenAI's shift to a for-profit model triggers internal resignations and allegations of suppressed economic impact research. When AI vendors control both platforms and narratives, ecosystem participants lose access to inconvenient truths about displacement, quality degradation, and operational disruption. MSPs experience these impacts directly, often after automation decisions have already reshaped staffing, workflows, and customer expectations.Security vendors are responding by introducing AI governance and control-layer tools, but carefully stopping short of owning outcomes. From AI detection and response to bundled copilots, zero-trust packages, and expanded vulnerability scanning, the message is consistency and experimentation—not accountability. As AI systems move from passive tools to active decision-makers, governance becomes an ongoing service rather than a product feature. MSPs that fail to price, document, and limit decision risk will inherit liabilities they cannot automate away. Four things to know today 00:00 Ransomware Payments Fall 33% as Attacks Persist and Shift Toward Hypervisors04:33 State Attorneys General Warn OpenAI, Microsoft, and Apple on AI Child Safety as Federal IT Modernization Funding Stalls08:24 Former OpenAI Employees Raise Transparency Concerns as Economic Impact Research Is Curtailed10:51 CrowdStrike, Microsoft, Vectra, WatchGuard, and LevelBlue Push AI Security Controls Without Owning Outcomes This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://mailprotector.com/mspradio/
In our latest episode, our co-hosts Robby and Tim talk with Jon Morehouse, founder and CEO of infrastructure company Nuon which enables Bring Your Own Cloud (BYOC) for everyone. This is an exclusive podcast episode with Jon digging into their decision to open source Nuon! The episode discusses the industry's growing shift toward Bring Your Own Cloud (BYOC), where SaaS products run directly inside a customer's cloud account rather than the vendor's. This model is especially attractive to enterprises because it improves security, data sovereignty, and trust, while enabling earlier pilots and shorter sales cycles. Infrastructure products like Nuon focus on making this practical by packaging applications so they work in customer environments without requiring vendor access, positioning BYOC as an enterprise-first approach that is likely to become the default way software is delivered.A key theme is open source as a trust and distribution strategy. In the infrastructure space, open sourcing lowers perceived risk, deepens customer collaboration, and builds community, which in turn acts as sales enablement for large enterprise deals. The conversation also connects BYOC to AI, highlighting patterns like bring-your-own-model, keys, and GPUs, and frames BYOC as a spectrum rather than a binary choice. The broader vision is to define and lead a BYOC movement by uniting vendors around shared standards, trust, and community-driven adoption.
In today's Cloud Wars Minute, I break down the latest earnings results showing Oracle and Google Cloud surging into a tie for the #2 fastest-growing cloud vendors in the world's greatest growth market.Highlights00:13 — Two companies that are really pushing the boundaries here in the greatest growth market the world has ever known are Oracle and Google Cloud. Recently, Oracle pulled into a tie with Google Cloud for the second spot, number two spot on the fastest growing major cloud vendors list that is topped by number one, Palantir.00:41 — Nine of the 10 companies break out their cloud earnings. IBM does not for reasons I cannot fathom, but of the nine that do, five saw their growth rates accelerate in the most recent quarter, four of them saw declines, but only by one point. So for these, levels of growth are being sustained, strong customer demand, belief in the transformative power of what's going on with AI in the cloud.02:13 — Overall, we see lots of momentum here, across the board all the different sorts of products and services offered by the different Cloud Wars Top 10 companies and we saw Oracle make the biggest jump here, other than Palantir, Oracle went from 28% to 34%. So, it and Google Cloud: I've been making the case for the last 12-15 months that they're the most disruptive of the four hyperscalers.02:43 — They're coming out with new sorts of technologies, new ways of helping to push AI forward and definitely new go to market approaches. The partnership programs they have are also quite striking. So, going into the new year, those are going to be two companies really to watch. I think Microsoft's doing a good job on a very broad basis.03:03 — AWS has some has some work to do. It's just not been performing at the rate, especially when we look at future revenue growth as we see through the RPO numbers — talked about that some in yesterday's episode. Anyway, lively group here. When we say the greatest growth market world has ever known, I think these numbers continue to bear that out. Visit Cloud Wars for more.
A Special THANKS to Aidite North America for allowing the podcast to record at Nola LabFest. GO SHOW THEM SOME LOVE! aidite.com Duff Wilson's journey in dental technology is anything but typical. From getting thrown into high-volume removable work at a major lab in the early '90s to opening Wilson Dental Lab out of his home and building a lean, relationship-driven business, Duff's story is rooted in grit, loyalty, and doing things the right way—even when it's hard. Along the way, he shares how mentorship, state lab associations, and taking care of people shaped his career, including helping other technicians start their own labs and building a South Carolina–based milling center to support small labs. The conversation dives deep into the evolution of digital dentistry, zirconia, milling centers, design services, and why relationships—not products—are what truly matter in this industry. Duff explains how trust and support led him to work closely with Aidite (https://www.aidite.com/), why being lean is the key to longevity, and how redefining success after a life-changing health scare helped him create a sustainable lab, a better lifestyle, and a clear path for the next generation of technicians Happy Holidays from Ivoclar! As the year comes to a close, all of us at Ivoclar want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible Voices From the Bench community. Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and the support you've shown throughout the year. From our Ivoclar family to yours, we wish you a joyful, healthy, and safe holiday season. May your days be merry, your nights be bright, and your smiles shine like freshly fallen snow. Ho, ho, ho — Happy Holidays from Ivoclar! Big news is coming your way in the world of CAM. Our friends at Ivoclar have teamed up with FOLLOW-ME! Technology (https://www.follow-me-tech.com/) to bring the Ivotion Denture System (https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/digital-processes/ivotion) into the HyperDent CAM (https://www.follow-me-tech.com/hyperdent/) workflow. That's right—your favorite pre-shaded, two-layer Ivotion discs, the ones that let you design and mill a complete denture in one seamless process with no bonding and no mess, are now moving beyond closed systems. Thanks to this new partnership, Ivotion can finally be milled on open machines through HyperDent. And it gets better: you'll first see this powerful workflow available on the Roland DWX-53 series mills (https://www.rolanddga.com/products/dental/dwx-53d)—already a staple in so many labs—as well as the Imagine iMills (https://www.imagineusa.com/legacy/s/mills/imill). If you've been waiting for a faster, cleaner, more flexible way to produce full dentures, this is it. Ivoclar and FOLLOW-ME! just made the future of denture manufacturing wide open. Get ready—HyperDent is about to change the way you mill Ivotion. Special Guest: Duff Wilson.
If you are getting ready for tax reporting for Tax Year 2025 and need the important things to know or do regarding the 1099-NEC, the 1099-MISC and the 1042-S – this podcast episode is for you! Starting with two that you don't have to worry about (yet) then three that you do. Keep listening. Check out my website www.debrarrichardson.com if you need help implementing authentication techniques, internal controls, and best practices to prevent fraudulent payments, regulatory fines or bad vendor data. Check out the Vendor Process Training Center for 116+ hours of weekly live and on-demand training for the Vendor team. Links mentioned in the podcast + other helpful resources: IRS Draft Forms: https://www.irs.gov/draft-tax-formsIRS Published Forms: https://www.irs.gov/forms-instructions-and-publications IRS Publication 5903: IRIS App for TCC Tutorial and IRIS Application for TCCIRS Publication 5911: IR App for TCC Tutorial and IR Application for TCCCustomized Vendor Validations Session: https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-sessionFree Download: Vendor Validation Reference List with Resource Links https://debrarrichardson.com/vendor-validation-downloadVendor Process Training Center - https://training.debrarrichardson.comCustomized Fraud Training: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/customized-fraud-training Free Live and On-Demand Webinars: https://training.debrarrichardson.com/webinarsVendor Master File Clean-Up: https://www.debrarrichardson.com/cleanupYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqeoffeQu3pSXMV8fUIGNiw More Podcasts/Blogs/Webinars www.debrarrichardson.comMore ideas? Email me at debra@debrarrichardson.com Music Credit: www.purple-planet.com
The 2025 NVP Product Expo, hosted by Drag Specialties (in partnership with Parts Unlimited), took place at the Baird Center in Milwaukee on September 6–7. This marked the second straight year the event was held in Milwaukee after relocating from Madison, reflecting continued growth and a need for larger exhibition space. SUPPORT US AND SHOP IN THE OFFICIAL LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE The NVP isn't just a trade show — it functions as a showcase of the latest aftermarket products and accessories for powersports enthusiasts and dealers. Attendees got a first look at new offerings from some of the biggest names in the industry, with the expo floor doubling as a hands-on venue for vendor–dealer interaction, product demonstrations, and dealer-training sessions CHECK OUT OUR HUNDREDS OF FREE HELPFUL VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND SUBSCRIBE! Beyond business, the 2025 NVP also emphasized community and culture. The schedule included a bike show — featuring builds across vintage, metric and V-twin classes — a meet-and-greet with key industry figures, and additional perks like show discounts, dealer incentives, Sunday giveaways, and a "bagger bike build-off." All told, the NVP delivered value, excitement, and connection for dealers and enthusiasts alike. NEW FREE VIDEO RELEASED: Don't Be THAT Rider: T-Shirts vs. Hot Weather Riding Jackets! The TRUTH! Alpinestars Troop Air Hot Weather Riding Jacket Sponsor-Ciro 3D CLICK HERE! Innovative products for Harley-Davidson & Goldwing Affordable chrome, lighting, and comfort products Ciro 3D has a passion for design and innovation Sponsor-Butt Buffer CLICK HERE Want to ride longer? Tired of a sore and achy ass? Then fix it with a high-quality Butt Buffer seat cushion? If you appreciate the content we put out and want to make sure it keeps on coming your way then become a Patron too! There are benefits and there is no risk. Thanks to the following bikers for supporting us via a flat donation: Paul Bartley of Sharpsburg Georgia Bryan Rogers of Cape Coral, Florida Randy Moore of Fair Lawn, New Jersey HELP SUPPORT US! JOIN THE BIKER REVOLUTION! #BikerRevolution #LawAbidingBiker #Bikaholics #RyanUrlacher
In this episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley sits down with longtime industry strategist Troy Spring to discuss the evolving state of automotive advertising. With nearly four decades in the business, Troy brings a perspective shaped by experience, data, and a deep understanding of what truly moves the needle for dealerships! "I've never seen anything work better than direct mail ever." - Troy Spring From traditional marketing channels to modern digital ecosystems, the conversation explores how dealers think about their market, their budget, and the strategies that shape their advertising decisions. Sean and Troy examine the realities dealerships face today, from vendor relationships to the role of in-house marketing leadership, and why understanding your market is more important now than ever! "It's a chess match. It's not just advertising. It's about looking at everything holistically." - Troy Spring This episode challenges assumptions, reframes how dealers view their advertising spend, and offers a candid look at the mindset needed to succeed in a competitive landscape. If you're a Dealer, General Manager, marketing manager, or anyone responsible for driving traffic and generating opportunities… this is a conversation you'll want to hear firsthand! Tune in to learn how top operators are rethinking their advertising journey, and why the next evolution of automotive marketing starts with clarity, strategy, and control! Key Takeaways: ✅ Direct mail remains one of the most effective traditional advertising methods for car dealerships, often outperforming digital strategies. ✅ To optimize marketing spend, dealers need to focus on their immediate market area before expanding efforts to broader markets. ✅ Understanding and calculating the true cost-per-sale involves more than just the simple division of ad spend by cars sold. ✅ Dealerships should ensure their marketing managers have both automotive sales experience and technical knowledge in digital marketing certifications. ✅ Successful dealer strategies often include a mix of both traditional and digital marketing methods, customized to their specific market needs. About Troy Spring Troy Spring, Co-founder of Dealer World, is an automotive industry veteran with nearly 40 years of experience! He sold his first car at the age of 18 and rose quickly within the ranks to manage dealerships, including leading a four-store group as a platform manager. In 2009, Troy founded Dealer World, a boutique advertising agency specializing in driving traffic and sales strategy for car dealerships. He later co-founded Dealer Funnel, focusing on nurturing leads for better conversion rates. Known for his innovative approach and in-depth understanding of both traditional and digital automotive marketing, Troy is highly respected in the industry! Disrupting Auto Dealership Strategies: Insights from Industry Experts Key Takeaways Dealers must focus on securing their local market before venturing into new territories to maximize profitability. A holistically-managed marketing plan, customizable per dealership's needs, outperforms cookie-cutter OEM vendor solutions. Successful dealership marketing relies on understanding both traditional and digital advertising fundamentals. The Importance of Protecting Your Primary Market Area (PMA) In the fast-paced world of automotive dealerships, focusing on expansion without reinforcing the existing customer base can be a recipe for inefficiency. Sean V. Bradley, president of Dealer Synergy, suggests a foundational strategy: focus on protecting your primary market area first. Bradley asserts that many dealers overlook the rich opportunities available locally. "It's interesting," Bradley remarks, "we'll sit with a dealer, and they'll say, 'I got to go after XYZ down the street,' when they should be protecting their backyard first." This discussion highlights that the inclination to conquest rather than consolidate can lead to a dilute marketing focus. The result? Dealers potentially miss out on higher return-on-investment (ROI) opportunities domestically. Bradley's recommendation to analyze the pump-in, pump-out report is a strategic reminder to first solidify one's standing locally. This approach not only optimizes ROI but also reduces advertising costs associated with pursuing less familiar, distant markets. Taking Bradley's advice to heart, a dealership can enjoy the double benefit of deepening customer loyalty while also enhancing word-of-mouth marketing locally. Through focusing efforts on holding on to current clientele before aggressively targeting competitors', dealerships can achieve a more sustainable, profitable growth model. Crafting a Custom Marketing Strategy: Beyond OEM and Vendor Scripts Both Bradley and Troy Spring, founder of Dealer World, make compelling cases against the dependency on prescribed OEM and vendor-driven tactics. Amid the rising challenges facing automotive dealerships, they argue for a bespoke marketing strategy that's adaptable to each dealership's unique environment. Spring states, "You have to be with someone who can think holistically because if you're on with linear OEM vendors, you're just gonna get told why you should continue to do more and more of what it is that they sell." Such insights underscore the limitations of formulaic marketing solutions. While OEMs often push for uniformity—to simplify their nationwide branding and operations—dealerships must vigilantly evaluate these suggestions. Bradley underscores a critical point, proposing that dealers risk spending thousands unnecessarily on ineffective lead generation strategies because they blindly follow OEM guidance. The conversation dives into the economics of advertising. Bradley shared, "I've got a dealer group spending $70,000 on a splash page generating just a few hundred leads each month." This statistic serves as a caution against the pitfalls of not closely scrutinizing advertising expenditures versus results. It's essential for dealerships to cultivate an advertising strategy where each segment, from pay-per-click (PPC) to SEO and database marketing, functions as an integrated system rather than disparate efforts. This avoids the trap of bloated expenses disguised within bundled packages, which can negate perceived savings with reduced effectiveness. Bridging Traditional and Digital Advertising for Maximum Impact The discussion also delves into appreciating the coexistence of traditional and digital advertising within dealership marketing, which offers a nuanced approach to driving traffic. One standout revelation from Troy Spring? The effectiveness of direct mail. Although often regarded as an antiquated medium, Spring asserts, "Nothing has ever worked better than direct mail." It's a thought-provoking declaration in an era rich with digital solutions. Contrary to perceived obsolescence, traditional methods such as direct mail remain relevant, especially when optimized with the latest data analytics techniques. Properly targeted, a traditional medium can reach high potential customers directly and personally. Given the inundation of digital ads, a physical piece of mail stands out, often carrying more weight. Spring further suggests that while digital tools, like social media and search engine marketing (SEM), play critical roles in modern strategies, their effectiveness hinges heavily on their synergy with traditional advertising channels. These multifaceted campaigns leverage the strengths of both domains—ability to track and personalize digital ads with the tangible and trust-building potential of offline methods. Emphasizing on integrative approaches that couple interactive digital platforms with traditional media allows dealerships to engage in comprehensive advertising strategies personalized to consumer behavior trends. Through harmonizing these forces, a dealership's presence is effectively cemented in the market, leveraging the best aspects of each medium. A Synthesis of Strategy and Practice The insights shared by Sean V. Bradley and Troy Spring showcase a wealth of expertise in crafting dealership marketing strategies that balance innovative thinking with foundational business tenets. As dealerships navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving industry landscape, these professionals emphasize the necessity for both strategic foresight and a command over advertising mechanics. Essentially, the most adept dealerships will be those that recognize the imperative to protect their primary markets while scaling responsibly. They explore bespoke advertising solutions beyond OEM packages, integrating digital dexterity with traditional marketing. Each dollar spent should be scrutinized for its ROI, as the measure of an effective advertisement goes beyond impressions or clicks to the tangible growth it champions for the dealership. In an industry as competitive as automotive sales, this layered, integrated approach becomes the solutions beacon through transformative, modern advertising challenges. Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Mastermind Group in the Automotive Industry with over 29,000 members worldwide. Collaborate with automotive professionals, learn the best industry practices, and connect with top mentors, managers, and sales leaders. Join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: The automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm. With over 20 years of proven success, Dealer Synergy has helped dealerships nationwide build high-performing Internet Departments and BDCs from the ground up. Our expertise includes phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, and management processes; all designed to maximize your people, processes, and technology! ➼ Bradley On Demand: The automotive industry's most powerful Interactive Training, Tracking, Testing, and Certification Platform. With LIVE virtual classes and access to a library of over 9,000 on-demand training modules, Bradley On Demand gives your dealership the tools to dominate every department: Sales, Internet, BDC, CRM, Phone, and Leadership. From sharpening individual skills to elevating entire teams, this platform ensures your people are trained, tested, and certified for maximum success. Equip your dealership to sell more cars, more often, and more profitably with Bradley On Demand!
Some conversations feel scripted. This one… absolutely did not. Larry Robbins walked in ready to talk life, passion, family, culture, workholding, philosophy, and whatever else popped into his head — and somehow it all connected back to manufacturing. This episode of MakingChips is one of the most unhinged, hilarious, honest, and wisdom-packed conversations we've ever recorded. Larry has been in the industry for nearly 46 years, and he's collected enough stories, scars, and laughs for ten careers. From his father dragging him into the business ("long hair doesn't work here") to his famous explanation that SMW makes "magic hands," Larry blends humor and experience into lessons every shop owner needs to hear. His passion for the industry is unmatched — and his candor is even better. Throughout the episode, the crew dives into culture, leadership, lying (don't), modularity, flexibility, high-density workholding, predictable setups, financing equipment, and why you should stop crawling across a dollar to pick up a dime. Larry opens up about the future of manufacturing, warns against bad advice, and reminds everyone that machining touches every single thing in the world. If you're ready for an episode that's equal parts educational and unhinged in the best possible way, buckle up — Larry Robbins is in rare form. Segments (1:00) Larry's background, early failures, and the stories that shaped his approach to leadership (3:31) An investment in ProShop is an investment in your business (3:32) Culture, loving your work, and leadership lessons (5:07) Entering the family business, retirement humor, and long-term commitment (7:23) The reality of workplace culture, honesty, and handling difficult employees (10:02) Integrity, truth-telling, and early lessons on character (13:18) Appreciating machinists and the unseen parts of manufacturing (15:05) Workholding vs. cutting tools and why workholding matters more than people think (16:09) "Magic hands" — Larry's explanation of workholding for a 5-year-old (17:20) Workholding misconceptions and the cost of poor setups (19:00) Vendor trust, trying equipment, and choosing partnerships wisely (20:22) Setup reduction, rigidity vs. flexibility, and predictable processes (22:12) Cutting 12-hour setups and the value of internal vs. external setups (24:16) Why we love Phoenix Heat Treating for Outside Processing (25:24) Expensive machines + cheap vices = lost potential (27:26) Modular workholding, infinite adjustment, and the origins of the industry (29:18) When not to sell a customer — long-term trust over short-term gain (30:19) Why shops "don't know what they don't know" about proper workholding (31:58) Financing workholding and proving ROI to shop owners (33:09) Tooling certs and buying the solution, not just the machine (35:24) High-density workholding and maximizing machine real estate (37:12) Protecting customers from bad investments and the role of good vendors (38:01) The LEGO analogy and building reusable workholding systems (40:13) Trusting experts and using the right resources in decision-making (41:19) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) (41:57) Buzzwords like Industry 4.0 vs. solving real problems (43:49) Competing with global labor costs and running unattended (44:19) Extending the life of old machines with better processes (46:41) Universal truth: If you're not making chips, you're not making money Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Larry Robbins and SMW Autoblok An investment in ProShop is an investment in your business Why we love Phoenix Heat Treating for Outside Processing Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Smart Money Moves: Equipment Financing Tips with Ty Willis Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
In this episode, Eric Coffie breaks down one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—entry points in government contracting: local vendor pool contracts. Using Miami-Dade County as an example, Eric shows how pre-qualification pools work, why they offer low competition, and how one of his students used this exact method to go from $0 to $90,000 per month in revenue. From finding underpopulated pools, to leveraging mandatory site visits, to understanding why local vendors have a massive advantage, Eric gives a step-by-step roadmap anyone can follow—even with no licenses, no certifications, and very little capital. Key Takeaways Vendor pools = small competition + long-term contracts. Many city and county pool contracts run 5–8 years and allow late entry, giving local businesses repeatable opportunities with far fewer bidders than federal work. Local vendors have built-in advantages. Proximity, mandatory site visits, and the ability to estimate real competition make these contracts ideal for beginners with limited resources. Start with low-risk, high-demand categories. Rental equipment, debris removal, installation/maintenance, and simple supply items can be fulfilled using vendor credit (Home Depot, rental companies) with minimal upfront cost. Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/ Watch the full Youtube Episode here: https://youtu.be/F-FfsZyySfw
All links and images can be found on CISO Series. Check out this post by Christofer Hoff of Truist for the discussion that is the basis of our conversation on this week's episode co-hosted by David Spark, the producer of CISO Series, and Caleb Sima, builder, WhiteRabbit. Joining them is Crystal Chatam, vp of cybersecurity, Speedcast. In this episode: Understanding the fundamentals The grift of superficial expertise Hands-on experience matters A vulnerability at the leadership level Huge thanks to our sponsor, Stellar Cyber By shining a bright light on the darkest corners of security operations, Stellar Cyber empowers organizations to see incoming attacks, know how to fight them, and act decisively – protecting what matters most. Stellar Cyber's award-winning open security operations platform includes AI-driven SIEM, NDR, ITDR, Open XDR, and Multi-Layer AI™ under one unified platform with a single license. With ⅓ of the global top 250 MSSPs and over 14,000 customers worldwide, Stellar Cyber is one of the most trusted leaders in security operations. Learn more at https://stellarcyber.ai/.
© 2020-2026 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
