Why is it so important to meet employees where they are—emotionally, professionally, and generationally? Deon MacMillan, Chief People Officer at Pax8, shares her approach to cultivating a dynamic, people-first culture amidst hypergrowth. Her leadership philosophy revolves around balancing high-tech innovation with high-touch human engagement. Highlights include: The need to honor each employee’s current journey, using thoughtful development strategies, AI fluency, and a deep understanding of multi-generational needs. “Meeting them where they are” drives tailored learning paths, stronger engagement, and authentic brand ambassadorship from within. Navigating the tension between scaling a global organization and preserving its unique culture. From one-on-one rituals to employee listening programs, she focuses on creating alignment between purpose and performance. "Organizations that can balance hi tech and high touch will win". Connect with Deon on LinkedIn and visit Pax8.com to stay informed about the community. Timestamps: [08:02] Dispel the fear around AI [08:43] The 5 Generation Workforce [15:00] Developing talent around the globe [22:41] Leading Horizontally ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
“Leadership lives in the moments that matter,” shares Gavriella Schuster, a globally recognized DEI advocate, TEDx speaker, and former Microsoft VP. Highlights include: Why allyship isn’t just a social cause—it’s a critical leadership competency for today’s world. BeCOME an Ally framework and the six actions great allies take including Advocate, Listen, Lift, Include, Elevate, and Sponsor. Leaders at any level can bridge divides, amplify diverse voices, and drive transformation. Gavriella’s Big IDEA Podcast and her support of Women in Cloud’s #empowHer50. ‘Allies journey' training, consisting of 4 elements: Think, Do, Practice and Inspire for organizations and the IAMCP community - International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners. Visit gavriellaschuster.com/ to learn more about how you can become an advocate and take action. See the greatness in others. Timestamps: [06:57] 6 Actions Allies Take [21:29] Lead with Courage [29:10] Allies Journey Training ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
One of the most common traps leaders face is that of overthinking. While reflection is valuable, too much analysis can paralyze decision-making, erode confidence, and keep your true strengths hidden. We discuss the impact it can have on teams and outcomes, and how shifting your mindset can create clarity and forward momentum. You’ll hear practical tools like the “3-2-1 Simplify” framework, journaling techniques, and coaching to help you cut through noise and act decisively. We also highlight the importance of leaning into your core strengths so they become guiding beacons rather than buried assets. Tune in to learn how to quiet the overthinking voice, trust your experience, and lead with confidence that inspires others to follow. To learn more about our coaching, training and learning resources, visit appmeetup.com and dsbleadershipgroup.com Timestamps: [07:35] Good Enough & Learn, Go, Grow [14:58] Get a Journal [19:57] Time Frame [25:27] Let your Strengths Shine ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Level up your strategic planning with a platform designed to eliminate outdated spreadsheets and streamline the vCIO/QBR process. Joined by special co-hosts Peter and Andrew Holcomb, we speak with Alex Markov, CEO of Strategy Overview about his leadership journey, the future of IT Strategy and with being a Finalist in the IT Nation Pitch IT Accelerator program and competition. Highlights include: How their vCIO/QBR platform is transforming MSPs by moving beyond manual processes and into a smarter, more scalable way of managing client roadmaps, budgets, and IT strategies. The introduction of Arya, a vCIO AI agent Winning and scaling with family and entrusted leaders. Building with the community. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn and visit strategyoverview.com/ to learn more about their approach to changing how MSPs engage clients, build trust, and drive growth. Timestamps: [11:11] Divide & Conquer with Family [19:01] Chatbot ARYA [27:30] PitchIT Accelerator [32:41] What's Next? ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Let's explore one of the biggest challenges leaders face: the fear of speaking and how it impacts their executive presence. From stage fright in boardrooms to the paralyzing fear of judgment, we takle why even the most prepared leaders hesitate to share their voice. Highlights: Executive presence isn’t about being the loudest voice, but about clarity, authenticity, and courage. Practical tips include reframing nerves, practicing consistently, and remembering that presence is more powerful than perfection. Focus of our episodes around our soon to be released book entitled, Identically Opposite and our new AI integrated training tool. Timestamps: [09:49] Starts with Mindset [11:23] Reframe Anxiety [16:28] New Book & New AI Resource ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Facilitating intelligent conversations about AI is crucial for driving responsible adoption. They empower both organizations and people to move from fear or hype to greater clarity and opportunity. With over three decades helping CEOs and executive teams bridge strategy with measurable outcomes, Marc Hoppers, Managing Partner of HighEdge Group shares why these conversations need to take place. Highlights include: Driving growth, increasing efficiencies, and cultural transformation with technology as Marc reminds us that automating a bad process won’t deliver results. Unpacking some of today’s biggest growth barriers, and how leaders can sharpen their Go-to-Market strategy to avoid costly blind spots. Offering perspective on work-life balance, values-driven leadership. Texas BBQ must try spots. IAMCP Follow Marc on LinkedIn and visit highedgegroup.co/ for your 30-minute strategy call Timestamps: [08:59] Cultural Transformation with AI [11:10] Blind Spots [23:50] Create Space for Work-Life [43:50] Give Before you Expect to Get ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
By collaborating with service providers, vendors and even peers, organizations can leverage brands, expertise, integrate complementary technologies and services, and gain a competitive edge in a fast-changing landscape shaped by innovation, cybersecurity threats, cloud adoption, and digital transformation. Julian Agapitos, Strategic MSP Account Manager at SonicWall speaks to the importance of strengthening and supporting relationships with Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and channel partners. Highlights include: Commitment to partner success as reflected in their tools for threat intelligence, training, and co-marketing support; helping partners grow revenue while delivering trusted protection to end customers. His journey through the tech ecosystem and why he is so passionate about helping channel leaders adopt, deploy, and maximize SonicWall’s full suite of solutions. How leadership in today’s crowded market requires problem-solving, trust-building, and empowering partners with scalable options that align with their growth. Some best practices seen among high-performing partners, as well as common challenges MSPs face when scaling. For more insight about the value of strong partnerships, visit Sonicwall.com and connect with Julian on LinkedIn. See what going the “extra mile” can do for your organization. Timestamps: [04:58] Why SonicWall [06:45] A Blueprint, Rapport & Trust [16:47] Highlight a Partner [22:57] Quickfire Questions ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Hiring the right talent can either accelerate or stall the growth of any organization—especially in the MSP and IT services space. Chris Keith, Founder of HIREXE, addresses the challenges MSPs face in finding the right talent to join their growth journey. As Chris puts it, candidates “must have 'It factor', be technically sophisticated, and be reasonably priced”. Highlights include: Leveraging AI with their new People GPT candidate search tool. Why South Africa has become a key market for overseas talent, and what it means to solve hiring headaches in such a competitive industry. Embracing problem-solving as a mindset and staying intellectually curious. His experience as part of the 2025 PitchIT Accelerator Program, a launchpad for innovation in the channel. Visit hirexe.com/ to learn how they are transforming IT recruiting and to test their AI Powered Candidate Search tool. Also feel free to email Chris directly. Timestamps: [04:14] Talent Challenges in the Sector [07:05] People GPT Tool [16:30] Be Intellectually Curious [22:42] PitchIT Accelerator Program ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
What are the signs of a true disruptor? You’ll know it when a leader or organization challenges the status quo and redefines success. In this episode, Skylar Newton, Director of Sales at SentinelOne, joins us to share how his team is revolutionizing the endpoint security space through AI and machine learning. Highlights include: How to build high-performing teams by leading with empathy and truly knowing your people Key takeaways from SentinelOne’s recent PartnerOne Summit, including the revamped PartnerOne Program, the Singularity platform, and a renewed commitment to partner success The critical role of trust and strategic relationships in driving meaningful partnerships A personal look at how fatherhood, fitness, and balance shape Skylar’s leadership philosophy Whether you're a tech executive, cybersecurity professional, or an emerging leader, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on innovation, business culture, and work-life integration. Connect with Skylar on LinkedIn and visit sentinelone.com to learn more about a platform pushing the boundaries of endpoint, cloud, and data protection. Timestamps: [04:50] Lead by Example [09:49] Partner One Summit Takeaways [14:20] From Reactive to Proactive ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Having a twin can be like having a built-in peer—someone who understands your journey, challenges you to grow, and helps you optimize your potential. Twins Peter Holcomb and Andrew Holcomb reflect on how their unique connection has shaped not only their careers, but also their approach to leadership and communication. Peter is the Founder and CEO of Optimo IT, and Andrew is an IT Manager of Systems & Security with Krayden. Highlights include: How the name “Optimo” was inspired by the drive to help organizations and leaders operate at their highest level. Peer groups, Peter notes, can be “almost like having a twin”—offering critical insight and accountability that drive professional growth. Andrew adds that, just like the intuitive understanding twins share, strong leadership relies on clear, intentional communication, not assumptions. Their story is a testament to the power of connection, clarity, and continuous learning in the evolving landscape of tech leadership. Connect with Peter and Andrew on LinkedIn and visit optimoit.io/ to learn more about the Denver based AI-driven Managed Intelligence Provider. Timestamps: [10:08] Value of Peer Groups [22:25] Importance of Communication [26:17] Quickfire Questions ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Do you have a mantra or framework that guides your life? For Johnson “JT” Tran, Chief Channel Officer at HelpDesk.tech, his philosophy isn’t about empty slogans—it’s about living with intentionality. From growing up as a first-generation Vietnamese American, to overcoming life-threatening challenges, to achieving financial freedom and “unofficial retirement” by age 36, JT’s story is one of grit, perspective, and reclaiming what truly matters. Highlights include: Breakdown of JT’s mantra “I Plead the F.I.F.T.H.” —Faith, Integrity, Family, Time, and Health. Lessons learned from martial arts and Bruce Lee. Why leaders must embrace “real talk” to build stronger teams and healthier cultures. Follow Johnson ‘JT’ Tran on LinkedIn and visit HelpDesk.tech to learn more about their service desk and IT support services. Develop your own guiding principles and prioritize what’s most important. Timestamps: [09:59] Plead the F.I.F.T.H framework [16:47] Financial freedom [25:08] Martial Arts & Confidence [28:02] Real Talk ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
“Leadership lives in the moments that matter,” shares Gavriella Schuster, a globally recognized DEI advocate, TEDx speaker, and former Microsoft VP. Highlights include: Why allyship isn’t just a social cause—it’s a critical leadership competency for today’s world. BeCOME an Ally framework and the six actions great allies take including Advocate, Listen, Lift, Include, Elevate, and Sponsor. Leaders at any level can bridge divides, amplify diverse voices, and drive transformation. Gavriella’s Big IDEA Podcast and her support of Women in Cloud’s #empowHer50. ‘Allies journey' training, consisting of 4 elements: Think, Do, Practice and Inspire for organizations and the IAMCP community - International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners. Visit gavriellaschuster.com/ to learn more about how you can become an advocate and take action. See the greatness in others. Timestamps: [05:48] 6 Actions Allies Take [20:20] Lead with Courage [28:01] Allies Journey Training ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Remove the guesswork and know with certainty where the inefficiencies are, and to be truly protected—this was the unifying message from three insightful conversations at the Pax8 Beyond Conference. These amazing leaders shared innovative ways MSPs can address risk, optimize operations, and elevate their strategic value. In Part 1 of this special episode, Marco La Vecchia, CRO with Produce8 emphasized how MSPs can move beyond reactive service delivery by using digital work analytics to gain real-time insight into how teams use technology and manage their time. With Produce8 acting as a "Fitbit for work," leaders can identify operational blind spots, rethink productivity in hybrid environments, and ultimately re-establish their place in the boardroom with actionable data. Marco's vision is clear: empower MSPs to become strategic advisors by uncovering the truth of how digital work gets done, and use that truth to drive smarter decisions and better business outcomes. In Part 2, CEO & Founder, Kim Simmonds of Cloud Contracts 365, reframed contracts not as obstacles but as assets. Their platform automates contract creation, legal workflows and provides a visual risk dashboard, allowing organizations to clearly see where their businesses may be exposed, turning potential liabilities into growth opportunities. Know your risk score and stay informed through their visual dashboard. In Part 3, Shlomi Gian, CRO with INKY Technology echoed this theme of proactive protection and strategic clarity. At INKY, identifying “who is behind the keyboard” drives their AI-powered behavioral analysis platform to detect intent and block malicious actors before damage occurs. His team’s mission is to block threats and coach users—empowering organizations to build trust while staying ahead of evolving risks. Together, these leaders inspire MSPs to shift from reactive to strategic and to embrace technology that not only safeguards their organizations but also fosters operational excellence and strong leadership in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Connect with them on LinkedIn and visit their respective sites: produce8.com and cloudcontracts365.com/ and at inky.com/ Timestamps: [01:23] Part 1 [25:17] Part 2 [49:07] Part 3 ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
At the Pax8 Beyond conference, two dynamic leaders—Anna Griffin of Commvault and Colin Britton of Devicie—shared how their organizations are helping businesses regain control and accelerate outcomes in an ever-evolving tech and security landscape. In Part One of this special episode, Anna highlights Commvault’s evolution to becoming a leader in cyber resilience. With the introduction of the world’s first recovery range, Commvault focuses on helping organizations quickly recover from cyber incidents and human errors. Her message was clear: to regain lost data and brand trust, companies must be properly positioned, deliver consistent value, and lead with purpose. Marketing, in this context, is no longer about noise but about impact—creating a resilient narrative that drives measurable outcomes across customer workflows. In Part Two, Colin Britton emphasized how Devicie fills a critical operational gap by helping MSPs shift from reactive IT support to a proactive, endpoint strategy consultant. Learn about their U.S. expansion goals and the release of a Windows 11 Migration Kit, further showing its commitment to helping MSPs scale, stay secure, and move faster. Both conversations underscore that in today’s high-risk, high-demand environment, leaders must not only recover quickly from setbacks but also position themselves to accelerate meaningful, long-term outcomes. Follow them on LinkedIn and and be sure to visit their organization's websites, commvault.com/ and devicie.com/ Timestamps: [01:10] Part 1 - Anna Griffin [24:36] Part 2 - Colin Britton ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Recorded live at the Pax8 Beyond conference, this special edition dives into the power of endless possibilities when leaders embrace a growth mindset—one that values curiosity, resilience, and a relentless drive to evolve. In Part One, we feature Jeffrey Newton, Founder of Cyft, who shares his inspiring journey from the network closet to becoming a transformational voice in the MSP space. With his book, The MSP's Sales Code, and his podcast The MSP Insider, Jeffrey champions the concept of Service Intelligence—redefining how MSPs leverage AI not just for efficiency, but for strategic, data-driven service delivery. He challenges leaders to go beyond their comfort zones, embrace "push to fail" learning, and ask better questions to unlock desired outcomes. For Jeffrey, it’s not about riding the AI wave—it’s about guiding the MSP ecosystem toward lasting, meaningful change. In Part Two, we turn to Kathleen Lord, Chief Revenue Officer at Zensai, who is leading the charge to transform compliance and employee learning through a Human Success Platform that integrates directly within Microsoft 365 and Teams. With a deep belief in coaching and the understanding that traditional compliance training is “broken,” Kathleen is advocating for a smarter, AI-powered, personalized learning experience—making development accessible, measurable, and adaptive. Announcing a major new partnership with Pax8, she highlights how Zensai will empower MSPs to go beyond just attaining licenses and deliver true employee impact. A passionate leader and Stanford guest lecturer, Kathleen reminds us that real innovation happens when we stop checking boxes and start creating environments where people can thrive. Follow Jeff and Kathleen on LinkedIn and be sure to visit their organization's websites, Cyft.ai and zensai.com Capture this spirit as the possibilities are endless. Timestamps: [01:48] Part 1 - Jeffrey Newton [26:47] Part 2 - Kathleen Lord ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
How can MSPs scale, evolve, and thrive through the power of strategic enablement? David Schafran, Vice President of Partner Enablement at Pax8 provides insight into equipping MSPs with the tools necessary for achieving operational maturity and long-term value. From navigating mergers and acquisitions to shifting perceptions from “break-fixers” to “trusted advisors,” David outlines how enablement is not just about learning, but about deep, sustainable transformation. Highlights include: Behind-the-scenes look at Pax8 Beyond, the channel’s premier event, and David's session entitled. ‘M&A for the MSP: How to Build Your Winning Strategy.’ Buyers are more risk-aware than ever. 4 Academy delivery learning models. Quickfire lighting round of questions. His passion for photography. Follow David on LinkedIn, visit Davidschafran.com to learn more about this photography, and visit pax8.com to stay connected with the community and marketplace. Timestamps: [09:01] Value Creation Coaching [18:08] Guided Growth to Academy [21:17] Academy learning models [25:55] Weird & Interesting Fact ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Why is it so important to meet employees where they are—emotionally, professionally, and generationally? Deon MacMillan, Chief People Officer at Pax8, shares her approach to cultivating a dynamic, people-first culture amidst hypergrowth. Her leadership philosophy revolves around balancing high-tech innovation with high-touch human engagement. Highlights include: The need to honor each employee’s current journey, using thoughtful development strategies, AI fluency, and a deep understanding of multi-generational needs. “Meeting them where they are” drives tailored learning paths, stronger engagement, and authentic brand ambassadorship from within. Navigating the tension between scaling a global organization and preserving its unique culture. From one-on-one rituals to employee listening programs, she focuses on creating alignment between purpose and performance. "Organizations that can balance hi tech and high touch will win". Connect with Deon on LinkedIn and visit Pax8.com to stay informed about the community. Timestamps: [06:51] Dispel the fear around AI [07:32] The 5 Generation Workforce [13:49] Developing talent around the globe [21:30] Leading Horizontally ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
"Goals should scare and excite you." That’s the mindset Lane Brannan, EVP & GM Americas at Pax8, brings to leadership—and it's exactly what’s propelling Pax8 to become one of the most innovative cloud marketplaces in the channel. Lane dives into the company’s mission of helping MSPs grow smarter, become more efficient, and reduce risk—while reinforcing the importance of trust, enablement, and delivering real business outcomes. Key Highlights: Pax8 is transforming how MSPs scale and serve clients through education, innovation, and enablement. Vision must be clear from the top and reinforced at every level. Internal onboarding and leadership development are core to growth. Lane’s philosophy: align strategy to individual contribution with a closed-loop feedback system. Connect with Lane on LinkedIn and visit Pax8.com to stay informed about the community. Timestamps: [06:24] Evangelize the why [07:20] Internal enablement [13:26] Conference expectations [25:21] Friday Night Lights ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
Success doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a journey we must own, and that begins with the right mindset. Ryan Walsh, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Pax8 discusses the power of strategic leadership, embracing innovation, and the importance of cultivating community within the channel. From his rock-climbing analogy of navigating challenges to his passion for helping MSPs grow through “guided growth” and “amplifying uniqueness,” Ryan underscores the need for focused vision and teamwork. Highlights also include: A glimpse into the Voyager Alliance partner program. The expanding influence of AI, agents, and a shift to managed intelligence partners (MIPs). To be competitive means owning a niche, staying connected, and thinking collaboratively. Family and basketball as foundational to his leadership philosophy. His leadership philosophy, rooted in enabling others and fostering shared success, offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing tech landscape. Follow Ryan on LinkedIn and visit Pax8.com to stay informed about the marketplace. Timestamps: [08:09] Father modeled passion [18:01] Voyager Alliance Growth Tracks [18:56] Owning your niche [23:03] Power of Team ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup
This is another special edition. We’re on location at IT Nation Secure in Orlando, where cybersecurity leaders, channel experts, and solution innovators gathered to share ideas, build partnerships, and level up the industry—together. Not all heroes wear capes — some carry laptops and create solutions to help their MSPs and partners win. Dive into conversations with inspired leaders: Dexter Caffey, CEO of Smart Eye Technology, Jean Templin, Co-Founder and CEO of Nayak.ai Jared Casner & Mike Zbarsky Co-Founders of Blacksmith Infosec. Highlights include: Participating in the PitchIT Accelerator Program. Multimodal biometric authentication. Inspiration behind names and branding. Necessity of Executive buy-in to impact and shape security culture. Another podcast program to follow. Resources: An e-book from Nayak.ai: The Rise of AI in Sales Enablement https://www.nayak.ai/company/download-the-e-book A sample of the book, Forging Trust: https://blacksmithinfosec.com/forging-trust/ Timestamps: [01:06] Smart Eye Technology [20:35] Nayak.ai [41:52] Blacksmith infosec ~~~ Website: appmeetup.com/twinstalktechleadership/ Community: facebook.com/groups/salesmavericks Patreon: patreon.com/twinstalkitup