Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

Gartner predicts that by 2027, artificial intelligence (AI) will be responsible for half of all business decisions, either through full automation or partial augmentation. This shift is driven by the increasing pressure on technology companies to deliver returns on their AI investments, with small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) rapidly adopting these tools. However, a significant skills gap remains, as 95% of SMBs report needing more training to effectively utilize AI. The report emphasizes the importance of human oversight to ensure data quality and governance, suggesting that companies prioritizing AI literacy training could see revenue increases of up to 20%.Despite the enthusiasm for AI, a study from Stanford University reveals that professionals prefer using AI for automating mundane tasks rather than more complex responsibilities. The research indicates a strong desire for human control in the workplace, highlighting a disconnect between the tasks companies assign to AI and what workers actually want to automate. This gap presents an opportunity for managed service providers (MSPs) to bridge the divide by focusing on human-centered workflow design and aligning AI deployment with employee expectations.In the realm of productivity tools, OpenAI and Anthropic are making strides with new integrations that enhance user interaction with AI. OpenAI is testing a feature that allows users to analyze emails and manage schedules through ChatGPT, while Anthropic's CLAWD code has improved its toolchain for developers. These advancements signify a shift in how end users will expect to interact with their tools, pushing providers to adapt their roles from managing infrastructure to managing intelligence and intent.Broadcom's recent changes to VMware's licensing model have raised concerns among smaller customers, with reports of cost increases significantly impacting their budgets. While Broadcom claims that many of its top customers are adopting the VMware Cloud Foundation, the dissatisfaction among smaller clients indicates a need for IT providers to offer migration services and alternative solutions. The current landscape presents a critical moment for providers to assist clients in navigating these changes, ensuring they find resilient and appropriately priced platforms that meet their needs. Four things to know today 00:00 From Hype to Help: AI Decision-Making Surges, But Poor Guidance Risks Undermining Gains05:23 OpenAI and Anthropic Expand AI Agents Into Daily Workflow—IT Providers Must Now Govern Behavior, Not Just Systems07:44 Efficiency Is the New MSP Battleground: Martello and WatchGuard Highlight Operational ROI10:35 Broadcom’s VMware Pivot Forces MSPs to Choose Sides: Enterprise Loyalty or SMB Exodus This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small business resilience is masking deeper economic strains, as recent surveys reveal that while many small businesses report growth and have maintained or increased their workforce, a significant portion still feels the adverse effects of current economic conditions. Despite 56% of small businesses indicating growth and 90% maintaining or increasing their workforce, 43% of entrepreneurs express that the economic landscape is detrimental to their operations. This contradiction highlights a fragile optimism among small businesses, which may continue to invest in technology but will demand more tangible value for their expenditures.In contrast, the sentiment among large corporate CEOs has plummeted, with the CEO Economic Outlook Index dropping to its lowest level since 2020. Over 40% of CEOs anticipate workforce reductions in the next six months, reflecting widespread concerns about hiring, investment, and sales growth. This decline is attributed to uncertainties surrounding trade policies, which could have ripple effects on vendor spending and longer sales cycles, particularly impacting high-end managed service providers (MSPs) that cater to mid-market or enterprise clients.The podcast also discusses the challenges posed by data blind spots in strategic planning, as federal hiring freezes and budget cuts are beginning to affect the quality of economic data produced by the U.S. government. The erosion of reliable statistics complicates decision-making for both policymakers and service providers, making it increasingly difficult to advise small businesses on risk and compliance. Additionally, a significant drop in employee confidence, particularly among young workers, raises concerns for MSPs managing support desks, as anxiety may lead to higher turnover and a greater need for effective communication and leadership.Finally, the episode highlights the rapid growth of the managed services sector, with projections indicating that the market will reach $608 billion globally. Companies like NinjaOne, Halo PSA, and Nerdio are experiencing significant growth, driven by their focus on user experience and cloud-based solutions. The competitive landscape is shifting, with smaller players outpacing larger incumbents, emphasizing the need for MSPs to choose their platforms strategically and adapt to the evolving demands of the market. Three things to know today 00:00 Growth Without Confidence: SMBs Forge Ahead as Economic Signals Flash Caution for IT Advisors06:15 GenAI Growth Plans Clash with Security Concerns as AI Search Disrupts Digital Visibility10:38 MSP Sector Surges to $608B as Platform Wars Reshape PSA/RMM Landscape Supported by:  https://mspradio.com/engage/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small and mid-sized businesses are increasingly curious about how to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their operations. As they explore the potential of AI, they are asking critical questions about implementation, automation, and customer engagement. Experts Hunter Jensen and Barbara Paluszkiewicz discuss the challenges these businesses face, particularly regarding data readiness and cybersecurity. They emphasize the importance of understanding specific use cases and ensuring that companies have the necessary infrastructure and security measures in place before deploying AI solutions.Hunter highlights that many organizations, especially those that have been around for a while, struggle with data quality and governance. He notes that businesses often have "skeletons in their data closets," which can hinder effective AI deployment. Barb adds that for companies to safely utilize AI, they must have robust cybersecurity measures, including data loss prevention and user training. This foundational work is crucial to protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with regulations.The conversation also touches on the rising costs and complexities associated with private AI infrastructure. Hunter explains that while public large language models (LLMs) can be effective for certain tasks, businesses dealing with confidential information may benefit from self-hosted models. He points out that, in some cases, hosting AI solutions locally can be more cost-effective than relying on third-party services, especially as usage scales up.Finally, the discussion shifts to the evolving landscape of investment in the managed service provider (MSP) sector. Barb notes that many small MSPs are undervaluing their businesses, often expecting high multiples that may not be realistic. Hunter observes a trend where venture capitalists are less willing to invest in pre-revenue companies, pushing entrepreneurs to demonstrate customer traction before seeking funding. Both experts agree that the MSP community is adapting to these changes, with new models of community-driven investment emerging to support smaller businesses.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Haugli, CEO of SideChannel, discusses the critical distinction between security debt and technical debt, emphasizing that while technical debt is a common challenge for CIOs, security debt is a more specific issue that often arises in startups. He explains that startups frequently prioritize speed to market over security, leading to vulnerabilities that accumulate as they defer compliance and security measures. This accumulation of security debt can hinder their growth and create significant risks, as they may lack the necessary security practices and awareness when they eventually need to address these issues.Haugli highlights the role of managed service providers (MSPs) in helping their clients navigate these challenges. He argues that MSPs should not only provide technical support but also act as trusted advisors, guiding clients to understand the business implications of cybersecurity. By framing security as a means to unlock revenue and reduce friction in sales cycles, MSPs can help clients see the value in investing in cybersecurity measures. This approach positions MSPs as heroes in the eyes of their clients, as they provide essential business advice that can lead to increased revenue.The conversation also touches on the evolving role of virtual Chief Information Security Officers (vCISOs) in the cybersecurity landscape. Haugli asserts that the demand for vCISOs is growing, particularly as regulations increasingly require organizations to have dedicated cybersecurity leadership. He emphasizes that vCISOs offer a cost-effective solution for smaller businesses that cannot afford a full-time CISO, providing them with strategic guidance and expertise to build robust security programs.Finally, Haugli discusses the need for a national cybersecurity standard in the U.S. to address the patchwork of existing regulations. He argues that without enforceable standards, organizations will continue to struggle with compliance and security, leading to increased costs and confusion. By drawing parallels to other regulated industries, he advocates for greater accountability among software vendors and emphasizes the importance of compartmentalization in cybersecurity practices, which can help organizations mitigate risks and protect sensitive information.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The podcast discusses a transformative vision for building a managed services provider (MSP) that shifts away from traditional models focused on infrastructure management and reactive maintenance. Instead, it advocates for creating a tech services business that empowers small and mid-sized organizations to drive revenue through technology. The speaker emphasizes the importance of hiring empathetic, business-savvy individuals who can engage with clients on a human level, rather than relying solely on technical expertise. This new approach prioritizes emotional intelligence and relationship-building over conventional help desk support.The proposed team structure includes tech concierges who act as relationship managers, business process advisors who focus on optimizing client operations, automation specialists who streamline processes, and generalist troubleshooters who handle unique challenges. This model eliminates the traditional tiered support system, allowing for direct resolution or automation of issues. By humanizing the front-end interactions and automating backend processes, the MSP can deliver meaningful outcomes that genuinely benefit clients.Automation is positioned as a foundational element rather than just a feature, with the speaker advocating for the use of cloud-native management platforms and workflow automation tools. These technologies enable teams to focus on high-value advisory roles rather than mundane tasks. The podcast also highlights the potential of using AI to enhance team capabilities, making it a tool for amplifying human efforts rather than replacing them. This shift allows for a more efficient operation that prioritizes client relationships and business outcomes.Finally, the discussion touches on the financial aspects of running an MSP, emphasizing the importance of profitability over mere growth metrics. The speaker suggests that a lean team can effectively manage a smaller number of high-value clients, leading to sustainable business practices. The podcast concludes with advice on whether to build a new MSP from scratch or acquire an existing one, recommending a partnership approach to leverage complementary skills and enhance overall success in the industry.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

AI is increasingly becoming a double-edged sword in the workplace, as highlighted by a recent Microsoft report. While artificial intelligence tools are intended to enhance productivity, they are inadvertently contributing to an "infinite workday," leading to heightened employee burnout. The report reveals alarming trends, such as 40% of workers checking emails by 6 a.m. and a 16% increase in meetings scheduled after 8 p.m. This shift indicates that work is encroaching on personal time, suggesting a need for companies to rethink their time management and workflow strategies to prioritize high-impact tasks over busy work.Amazon's CEO, Andy Jassy, has acknowledged that AI efficiency gains will result in job cuts within the company, reflecting a broader trend of AI adoption across various sectors. Gallup's research shows that AI usage among U.S. employees has nearly doubled, with significant increases among white-collar workers. However, despite the growing integration of AI, concerns about job displacement remain relatively unchanged, with only 15% of employees fearing automation will eliminate their jobs in the near future.The podcast also discusses the transformative impact of autonomous software agents on small to mid-sized businesses, as outlined in PAX 8's report. The findings indicate that a majority of mid-sized enterprises are already deploying AI, with a notable emphasis on the need for organizations to adapt to new operational standards. The report suggests that IT service providers must shift their focus from merely selling AI tools to becoming organizational strategists that help clients redesign workflows and manage time effectively.Finally, the episode touches on the evolving landscape of the technology channel, emphasizing the necessity for vendors and partners to adapt to emerging trends. The shift from product-based selling to outcome-based solutions is becoming essential for survival in a competitive market. As traditional marketing development funds decline, the call for performance-based partnerships is more pressing than ever, urging IT service providers to demonstrate their value and influence in driving client success.  Four things to know today  00:00 Microsoft Warns of ‘Infinite Workday’ as AI Blurs Work-Life Boundaries06:19 OpenAI’s Defense Deal and MCP Push Signal AI’s Transition from Tool to Infrastructure08:58 MiniMax Launches One-Million-Token Open Model, Undercutting Cost of GPT-4 by Orders of Magnitude10:40 Techaisle: Channel Faces Structural Shakeup as Outcome-Based, Risk-Sharing Models Replace Old Playbook  This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://getnerdio.com/nerdio-manager-for-msp/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are exhibiting a dangerous overconfidence in their cybersecurity readiness, with a significant gap between their perceived capabilities and actual security measures in place. A recent report reveals that while 71% of SMBs feel confident in managing major cybersecurity incidents, only 22% have an advanced cybersecurity posture. This disconnect presents a critical opportunity for IT service providers to step in with strategic, outcome-focused solutions that emphasize not just tools, but comprehensive cybersecurity strategies.The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving, with SMBs increasingly recognizing the importance of cyber resiliency. Reports indicate that 68% of small businesses and 89% of mid-market firms understand the need for quick recovery from incidents, yet many still lack formal security protocols. As the market for cybersecurity solutions is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated $70 billion by 2034, the demand for effective strategies is more pressing than ever. The rise of cloud-based security solutions and zero-trust architecture is indicative of this shift.Regulatory changes are also impacting the cybersecurity landscape, as the SEC withdraws proposed regulations that would have required investment firms to establish written cybersecurity policies. This deregulation creates a trust vacuum that IT providers can fill by offering managed compliance and risk mitigation services. The convergence of regulatory retreat and escalating cyber threats underscores the need for proactive security measures, as the responsibility for cybersecurity increasingly shifts to the market.Amid these challenges, advancements in email security, particularly through DMARC adoption, show promise in combating phishing attacks. However, the rapid proliferation of generative AI applications is creating new vulnerabilities, complicating the security landscape. IT service providers are urged to capitalize on foundational security measures while also addressing the emerging risks associated with AI. The evolving cybersecurity environment presents both challenges and opportunities for providers who can adapt and innovate in response to these shifting dynamics.  Four things to know today  00:00 SMBs Overconfident, Underprepared: Cybersecurity Misalignment Fuels $70B Market Surge05:00 SEC Pullback Leaves Cyber Gaps as Ransomware and Zero Trust Shape 2025 Risk Landscape08:50 From DMARC to Shadow AI: Why Cybersecurity Now Requires Dual-Front Defense11:45 Bifurcation in IT Services: MSP-Centric Tools and Vertical Platforms Signal Strategic Divide  This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly recognizing the importance of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to stay competitive in the market. A recent survey indicates that 97% of small businesses utilizing voice AI agents have seen revenue increases. However, many SMBs still perceive AI as complicated or unnecessary, with 63% expressing concerns about their foundational capabilities to support AI initiatives. Despite these hesitations, research shows that 91% of SMBs that have integrated AI report revenue gains, highlighting a significant opportunity for those willing to embrace the technology.The demand for AI expertise is surging, with a notable shortage of talent in the IT sector. Over half of IT leaders report facing an undersupply of AI skills, a figure that has increased from 28% in previous years. While 90% of organizations are piloting or investing in AI initiatives, more than two-thirds of leaders have yet to see measurable returns on their investments. This skills gap emphasizes the need for IT service providers to step in as guides, helping SMBs navigate the complexities of AI adoption and implementation.Cloud spending has also surged, reaching $90.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025, driven by the need to optimize cloud infrastructure for AI applications. Major cloud providers like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud dominate the market, but the increasing complexity of cloud computing necessitates external expertise. IT service providers have a unique opportunity to position themselves as AI infrastructure enablers, focusing on simplifying hybrid cloud management and aligning cloud strategies with business objectives, particularly in relation to AI.Recent studies, including one from the University of Oxford, highlight the limitations of large language models (LLMs) in real-world applications, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare. While LLMs may perform well in controlled environments, their effectiveness diminishes when humans interact with them. This underscores the importance of designing AI systems that prioritize human outcomes over mere model accuracy. As companies like Zoom, MailChimp, and Microsoft launch new AI tools, the focus for IT service providers should shift from merely selling AI tools to ensuring responsible and effective deployment that delivers measurable value. Four things to know today 00:00 SMBs See AI as Key to Growth but Struggle With Skills and Strategy, Opening Door for IT Service Providers04:53 AI Boom Fuels 21% Surge in Global Cloud Spend, Forcing Providers to Tackle Hybrid Complexity and Cost Pressures07:38 AI Can Diagnose—But Can People Use It? Oxford Study Undermines LLM Utility in Critical Settings10:11 Mailchimp, and Microsoft Launch Next-Gen Tools Aiming for the Customer Experience This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by: https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andrew Bolton, CEO and co-founder of TechRescue, has developed a unique approach to delivering technical services specifically tailored for seniors. With a growing client base of nearly 1,000 seniors on a monthly subscription model, Bolton's company focuses on providing empathetic and personalized tech support. Unlike traditional managed service providers, TechRescue positions itself as a "tech therapist," emphasizing the importance of human connection and understanding in every interaction. This approach is particularly vital when dealing with a demographic that may not be as tech-savvy, as Bolton highlights the evolving nature of senior users who are increasingly engaged with technology.The inspiration for TechRescue stemmed from Bolton's personal experiences with his family, particularly his grandmother's struggles with technology. Recognizing a gap in the market for services that cater to seniors, he and his team have created a supportive environment where every call is treated as a priority. The company employs individuals with backgrounds in sociology and psychology rather than traditional tech support roles, ensuring that empathy and communication are at the forefront of their service. This human-centric approach has proven effective, as Bolton notes that most calls are not about complex tech issues but rather simple, everyday problems that seniors encounter.TechRescue operates on a subscription model, offering services at $50 per month or $400 annually. The company has established metrics to maintain profitability while ensuring quality service. Bolton explains that they have a structured process for handling calls, aiming to resolve issues efficiently while still allowing for personal interaction. By focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of tech support, TechRescue has carved out a niche that resonates with both seniors and their families, who often seek assistance for their elderly relatives.Looking ahead, Bolton envisions expanding TechRescue's reach, potentially into international markets. However, he acknowledges that the biggest challenge lies in finding the right personnel who can deliver the empathetic service that defines their brand. As the company continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of providing accessible and compassionate tech support to seniors, reinforcing the idea that technology should enhance, rather than complicate, their lives.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wes Spencer, co-founder of Empath, a training and education platform for managed service providers (MSPs), discusses a unique funding model that diverges from traditional venture capital. Instead of seeking investment from typical VCs, Empath successfully raised $2 million from industry insiders, primarily MSPs themselves. This approach fosters alignment and advocacy among investors, who are also customers, but it raises important questions about scalability and governance. The conversation delves into the implications of having investors who are directly involved in the product's development and direction.The investment structure utilized by Empath is based on Y Combinator's SAFE notes, which allow for a straightforward and fair investment process without changing control of the company. Spencer explains the importance of ensuring that investors are qualified, adhering to SEC regulations to protect non-professional investors. This structure not only simplifies the investment process but also limits the amount each investor can contribute, ensuring a diverse group of stakeholders who are genuinely invested in the company's mission.Spencer highlights the demographics of their investors, primarily consisting of CEOs from established MSPs with significant revenue. These investors are motivated by a desire to influence the vendor ecosystem positively and to have a say in the direction of the platform they use. The governance model established by Empath ensures that while these investors have a voice, they do not have control over the company's day-to-day operations, allowing for a balance between investor input and the leadership team's vision.As Empath continues to grow, Spencer acknowledges the potential need for future funding rounds, including the possibility of engaging with venture capitalists. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining transparency with investors and being responsible stewards of their contributions. The conversation concludes with Spencer expressing confidence in the company's trajectory, aiming for sustainable growth while remaining committed to the community-driven approach that defines Empath.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.