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The MSP Zone

Author: Charles Weaver

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Weekly discussion of news, events, and topics of interest to the global managed services professional community. The series will have the latest and most relevant discussions in managed services and cloud computing, featuring special guests and notable figures in the profession.
342 Episodes
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Unlock the truth behind the comeback of LogMeIn and what it really means for MSPs in 2026! Is your current tech stack ready for the game-changing next chapter? This episode explodes the myths, reveals insider strategies, and shows you how the industry’s most powerful brands are reshaping the future of managed services—and how YOU can position yourself to win big.MSPs and VARs, listen UP—the landscape is shifting faster than ever. Steve Shattuck from GoTo pulls back the curtain on their bold comeback, their laser focus on high-impact, world-class products like LogMeIn Rescue and Resolve MSP, and the game plan to make you more profitable and secure in a cyber-aware world.We break down: • The revival story of LogMeIn—why they brought back their iconic brand in 2025 and what that signals for the MSP ecosystem. • How GoTo’s dual-brand strategy simplifies your options and skyrockets your competitiveness. • The real reason why MSP-focused tools are getting smarter—AI’s secret role in automating security, saving time, and boosting profits. • The new partner programs launching in 2026 designed to scale your growth and deepen your strategic relationships. • Lessons learned from a decade of vendor consolidation—how to avoid the common pitfalls and leverage selective best-of-breed solutions. • The urgent need for security-first, zero trust approaches in today’s threat landscape—MSPs are the frontline, and the stakes have never been higher. • Why treating MSPs like true partners, not just customers, is the key to long-term success and mutual growth.If you’re an MSP or VAR feeling the pressure of an ever-changing tech world—and hungry for insights that actually move the needle—this episode is your essential playbook. Get inspired, get informed, and get ready to lead your business into a future where you control the narrative.Ready to see the industry from the inside out? Hit play—your next big move starts here.This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about thriving in the MSP space with
Most cyber incidents are not the result of sophisticated attacks; they are often failures of basic cyber hygiene. But why do so many organizations continue to overlook the fundamentals? In this heart-pounding episode, Charlie Weaver and cybersecurity expert Corey Munson unravel the myth of sophistication and reveal how preventable most breaches truly are. This is not about flashy new tools or complicated techniques; it is about returning to the fundamentals that every MSP and business owner needs to master. You will learn why 90 percent of breaches can be prevented by straightforward, affordable actions such as patching, managing remote desktop protocol, and controlling user access. The episode explores why we are still stuck in basic cyber hygiene practices in 2026. Corey shares actual examples, from citywide cybersecurity failures to legal challenges, demonstrating the risks of calling incidents “sophisticated attacks” when they are actually preventable. You’ll learn how public policy, insurance, and legal landscapes are shifting, making cybersecurity accountability more crucial than ever. The stakes aren’t just technical, they’re financial, legal, and cultural. This episode will redefine how you see cyber defense: it’s not about fighting supervillains, but about relentless, foundational discipline. This episode is essential listening for MSPs, business owners, and cybersecurity advocates who are ready to break the misconception that only advanced threats cause breaches. Consider this your call to action, because prevention starts with recognizing and addressing the basic steps that are often overlooked. Are you engaging in these critical discussions? Do your clients realize they have the power to protect themselves and are not simply at the mercy of cyber threats?If you are done accepting the excuse of sophisticated attacks and want practical, meaningful change, this episode is exactly what you need. Press play and take charge of your cyber hygiene transformation now.
This isn’t the AI episode you’ve heard before — it’s a wake-up call for MSPs and business leaders who refuse to stay stuck in the old playbook.AI isn’t here to destroy jobs — it’s here to redefine what work actually means. If you think automation equals displacement, think again. The real revolution? It’s about how MSPs can become the vital bridge, the ultimate architects of the new workforce landscape. This is a call to action—are you ready to lead or will you get left behind?Imagine this: AI is reshaping roles not overnight, but faster than organizations can adapt. Routine tasks are vanishing, but judgment, context, and accountability? Those remain human—if you know how to leverage them. The challenge? Organizations are caught in friction and chaos, trying to keep up with rapid change. That’s where MSPs come in—no longer just tech vendors, but strategic partners embedding AI governance, managing transformation, and guiding the future of work.We break down why traditional hiring, training, and outsourcing are obsolete in the age of AI—and why the old MSP model is dying. Instead, MSPs must evolve into business advisors, bridges between humans and machines, and stewards of AI at scale. Discover how MSPs will become the “shock absorbers” for turbulent transition times, the “translators” between leadership and operational reality, and the “governors” ensuring AI is safe, compliant, and accountable.This episode is essential for anyone leading a business or MSP. If you’re ready to rethink your strategy, understand the critical new roles MSPs will play, and learn how to transform chaos into opportunity, you can’t afford to miss this. The future isn’t some distant horizon — it’s happening now. Will you define it or be defined by it?
Most MSPs are chasing a myth: that hiring a salesperson will magically unlock their growth. But what if the real key isn’t new hires — it’s your messaging, fundamentals, and strategic mindset? You don’t need more salespeople—you need to understand where true growth really comes from.For decades, MSP owners have been told to hire sales pros as the ultimate fix for stagnation. Yet, the truth is far more nuanced. Hiring a salesperson without a solid foundation of messaging, target clarity, and lead generation is like pouring fuel on a fire that can’t ignite. It’s a costly mistake that leaves many struggling with efforts that never materialize into real revenue.In this episode, you’ll discover why MSP growth is rarely about sales alone. Charlie Weaver, with 26 years of MSP expertise and data from thousands of organizations, breaks down the myths standing in your way. You'll learn how to craft a compelling core message, identify your ideal customers, optimize lead gen strategies—without defaulting to “just hire a salesperson.” We’ll explore real-world alternatives like leveraging referrals, aligning your marketing, and building an internal growth engine that’s sustainable, predictable, and scalable.The stakes are high—ignore this insight, and you risk throwing away time, money, and that precious belief in your business. But if you’re ready to reframe your approach, you’ll unlock a growth path that doesn’t rely solely on luck, or a rare unicorn salesperson.This isn’t just theory. It’s a powerful shift for MSP owners tired of the hamster wheel. Whether you’re just starting out or stuck in a growth rut, this episode is the strategic boost you’ve been waiting for. Don’t wait for the perfect hire—build the perfect foundation first.Perfect for MSPs hungry for real growth, smarter strategies, and a mindset overhaul. Ready to challenge the status quo? Hit play and start transforming your MSP practice today.Why this works:This episode hooks listeners instantly by challenging a common misconception—hiring salespeople is NOT the silver bullet. It appeals directly to MSP owners frustrated by stagnant growth, offering concrete alternatives backed by data. The bold, passionate tone encourages action, making it impossible to ignore the message that real growth starts from within.
Most MSPs are unknowingly sabotaging their profitability by stacking tools instead of designing services. If your margins are thin despite a busy team, the hidden culprit may be your bloated tech stack—and it's costing you thousands in leakages every month.In this eye-opening episode, Charles Weaver exposes how the tendency to accumulate tools—driven by fear of breaches, client demands, or vendor hype—creates chaos behind the scenes. Over time, naïve decisions lead to overlapping security controls, fragmented workflows, and inconsistent client experiences that drain your margins. You'll discover why service consistency is more important than the tools themselves—and how to flip your approach for real profit.We break down the core concepts of designing scalable services that are easy to duplicate, automate, and support. Charles shares a powerful framework: start with a clear, defined service, then select the minimal set of tools needed to deliver it reliably. Automation becomes a game-changer when workflows are standardized across clients, reducing manual work, hero technician burnout, and operational complexity.You'll learn how to craft a true MSP service catalog—a strategic, operational contract that aligns your team and client expectations, enabling risk-based pricing and predictable margins. Without this, your business remains fragile, running on hope rather than a deliberate architecture. The stakes are high: most MSPs miss this fundamental shift and continue to chase the next shiny tool, unaware that the real secret to profitability lies in purposeful service design.Perfect for MSP owners, leaders, and aspiring managed service professionals, this episode reveals the unseen architecture that transforms chaos into clarity—and profit. If you’re tired of patchwork solutions and inconsistent results, tune in to discover how to build a lean, scalable, and profitable MSP practice centered around well-defined services and smart automation.This episode addresses a common pain point—thin margins despite high activity—and introduces a counterintuitive solution: reevaluating the core design of their offerings. It targets MSPs frustrated with tool overload and offers precise, actionable insights, encouraging immediate reflection and change. The combination of concrete frameworks, real-world impact, and a focus on "working deliberately" makes it compelling to click play and transform their business.
Most MSPs have been silently playing in the security space for decades—so why are clients now demanding they act as CISO? In this eye-opening episode, Neil Holm and Travis Springer unravel the evolving role of managed service providers entering the C-suite. They reveal how MSPs have long been high-level security players, often advising clients on strategic cybersecurity decisions without formal titles. But as regulatory pressures, cyber insurance, and boardroom demands accelerate, MSPs are caught at a crossroads: continue as trusted advisors or risk overstepping into roles that could create conflicts of interest.You’ll discover how MSPs can effectively influence executive-level security without crossing ethical boundaries. Neil and Travis share real-world insights on the limits of MSP involvement in policy, risk management, and assessments like pen testing—and why certain activities should always be referred out. They break down the subtle line between helpful advice and operational risk, revealing how to stay in the driver’s seat while avoiding the pitfalls of assuming responsibilities that aren’t yours to take. From the myths of “virtual CISO” to the regulatory and insurance-driven demands shaping today’s MSP practices, this episode equips you with practical strategies for staying compliant, credible, and confident.This conversation also highlights the critical need for strategic partnerships, clear scope boundaries, and honest assessments of what your MSP can and shouldn’t do. Whether you’re an MSP active in cybersecurity or contemplating your next move into the executive arena, you’ll leave with a sharper understanding of how to add value without inviting unnecessary risk. Perfect for MSP owners, security practitioners, and executives navigating the complex marriage of managed services and cybersecurity leadership—this is your essential guide to operating ethically and effectively at the highest levels.Hosts Charles Weaver, Neil Holm of Impact Business Technology, and Travis Springer of Sagiss, explore the gray zones of MSP leadership, offering a grounded perspective on the legal, ethical, and practical limits of client engagement. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and confidently define what it means to be a trusted security advisor in today’s high-stakes environment.
In this episode of MSP Zone, Charles Weaver and Rob Scott delve into the complexities of AI regulation and its implications for managed service providers in 2026. They discuss the role of MSPs in navigating these changes, the potential impact on national security and economic competitiveness, and the importance of staying informed about AI legislation. Tune in to explore how AI is transforming the managed services industry and what lies ahead for MSPs.
In this episode, Charles delves into the critical importance of having a clear and compelling message for managed service providers (MSPs). He emphasizes that without a well-defined message, even the best sales tactics can fall short. Charles shares practical steps for MSPs to develop a strong messaging framework that resonates with business decision-makers, ultimately driving revenue and growth. Tune in to learn how to transform your MSP's message from focusing on features to highlighting impactful business outcomes.
In this insightful episode, Charles and Adam Borst explore the current state of the Managed Service Provider (MSP) mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market as we approach 2026. They delve into the dynamics of private equity involvement, the importance of timing, and the strategic considerations for both buyers and sellers. With a focus on international interest and cultural fit, this discussion provides valuable perspectives for anyone navigating the complex world of MSP M&A. Tune in to discover whether the market is cooling and what it means for your business strategy.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Michael George, CEO of Syncro, as we explore the evolving landscape of managed service providers (MSPs). Discover how innovation is reshaping the industry, the role of AI in modern MSPs, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Michael shares his unique perspective on reducing complexity, enhancing profitability, and the importance of next-generation platforms. Whether you're an industry veteran or new to the MSP world, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of managed services.
Join Charles and Dan Candee, CEO of Cork, as they explore the evolving landscape of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in today's fast-paced IT world. In this episode, they discuss the shift from traditional IT services to a focus on business resilience and financial outcomes. Discover how MSPs can adapt to remain relevant, the role of cyber insurance, and the importance of engaging in C-suite level conversations. Whether you're an MSP or a business owner, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities in the modern IT environment.
Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the world of MSP security and compliance. Chris Viau and Charles from MSP Alliance guide us through a year-long journey of mastering cybersecurity awareness, focusing on both technical and non-technical training. Discover practical examples and strategies to implement robust security controls, ensuring your MSP is resilient and prepared for the evolving threat landscape. Whether you're new to cybersecurity or looking to enhance your existing practices, this episode offers valuable insights for all MSPs. Tune in and empower your team with the knowledge to stay secure and compliant.
In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and the modern-day expectations they face. Join us as we discuss the journey from being a trusted advisor to becoming a key player in the corporate executive suite. We delve into the challenges and opportunities for new and existing MSPs, highlighting the importance of following best practices to thrive in today's competitive environment. Whether you're a startup or an established business, discover why it's never too late to succeed as a competent MSP.
In this episode, we delve into the parallels between the infamous Enron scandal and today's cybersecurity landscape. Join us as we explore whether the cybersecurity industry is on the brink of its own "Enron moment" and what this means for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). We discuss the critical role of MSPs in safeguarding against potential crises, the importance of executive accountability, and the steps necessary to prevent a cybersecurity disaster. Tune in to understand how transparency, compliance, and proactive measures can help us navigate these challenges and secure a resilient future. #Cybersecurity #MSP #Enron
Join Charles Weaver as he sits down with Neil Holme, CEO and founder of Impact Business Technology, to explore the intricacies of managed service provider (MSP) contracts. In this episode, they discuss the ethical considerations and challenges surrounding MSP agreements, including the impact of contractual clauses on customer retention and the balance between business needs and ethical practices. Neil shares his insights on the importance of transparent communication and the evolving landscape of MSP services. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how MSPs can navigate these complex issues while maintaining strong customer relationships.
In this episode of MSP Zone, Charles Weaver sits down with Dor Eisner, CEO and co-founder of Guardz, to explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. They delve into the critical role of identity access management as the new frontier for cyber threats, the challenges faced by MSPs in adapting to these changes, and the transformative potential of AI in managed services. Discover how small and medium-sized businesses can navigate these complexities and why embracing innovative security solutions is essential for future success.
Join Charles Weaver as he delves into the evolving landscape of Managed Service Providers (MSPs). In this episode, Charles discusses the pressing need for MSPs to mature and adapt, highlighting the challenges of low profit margins and the importance of certification. He shares insights from recent industry events, exploring themes like artificial intelligence, compliance, and succession planning. Tune in to discover how MSPs can bridge the gap to scalability and profitability, and why the time has come for a new era in managed services.
In this episode, Charles Weaver delves into the age-old dilemma of competing against Managed Service Providers (MSPs) that drive down pricing. He explores the challenges of negotiating with prospects who are tempted by cheaper alternatives and offers practical advice on how to maintain your value without succumbing to a race to the bottom. Charles shares insights on establishing credibility, educating customers, and the importance of standing firm on pricing to ensure long-term success. Tune in to learn how to position your MSP practice for optimal success in a competitive market.
In this insightful episode, Charles Weaver explores why profitability is crucial for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs). Delve into the financial metrics that define success in the industry and learn how maintaining healthy profit margins ensures sustainability and growth. Charles discusses the challenges faced by service providers and offers strategies to enhance profitability, emphasizing the role of efficient service delivery and strategic planning. Join us to understand how profitability impacts the long-term viability and effectiveness of MSP and MSSP practices.
In this episode, we delve into the critical topics of managed services immunity and safe harbor laws for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Discover how these legal frameworks protect MSPs from certain liabilities, ensuring a safer operational environment. Join us as we explore real-world examples and expert insights, shedding light on how these laws impact the industry and what MSPs need to know to stay compliant and secure.
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