ERP130 - Project Delays and Failures, Breaking the Cycle

ERP134 - Navigating Rapid Change in the MSP Channel

Ever wonder what really happens behind the scenes when a rocket-ship MSP vendor goes from scrappy startup to multi-billion dollar public company? Today, I'm talking with Michael Fass [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-fass-6a224111/], former Datto general counsel and now CEO at Slide. Michael's seen the vendor/MSP relationship from every angle—legal, operational, and now as a co-founder, building Slide for the MSP channel. If you want a brutally honest look at what hypergrowth actually looks like from the inside, why most MSPs never get past "just technical," and how to avoid being the cobbler with ragged shoes, this episode is for you. You'll walk away knowing how to spot your "butter zone" in leadership, and a new way to think about partnering with the tech vendors in your stack. This episode is brought to you by Opsleader Pro [https://www.evolvedmgmt.com/opsleader]. A place for MSP owners and managers to get the systems and tools they need to build a stable and growing MSP. Part group coaching, part peer group, everything you need to run a successful MSP.

ERP133 - AI-Driven MSPs: Integrating Technology for Better Service

Today, we have a unique perspective on AI, courtesy of our guest, Jeff Gaines [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffbgaines/] with Treeline.ai. In this episode, we're exploring what it truly means to be "AI-first" in the MSP space—not just adding AI as a feature, but building it into every layer of the operation for a fundamentally different approach to service delivery. If you've been following the rapid changes in software, automation, and managed services, you won't want to miss this episode. We're getting into operational strategy, technology adoption, and the future of MSPs in the age of AI. This episode is brought to you by Opsleader Pro [https://opsleader.co/pro]. A place for MSP owners and managers to get the systems and tools they need to build a stable and growing MSP. Part group coaching, part peer group, everything you need to run a successful MSP.

ERP132 - VibeOps

In today's episode, I'm joined by John Capobianco [https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-capobianco-644a1515/] to talk about what John calls "VibeOps." If you've ever wondered where network automation and AI intersect—or how the next evolution of IT operations could look almost like managing a team of digital coworkers, you're going to love this one. Hear how John went from working in an aluminum factory to managing the network for the Canadian House of Parliament. John explains VibeOps and J shares practical advice for MSPs, how to get started with agentic tools safely, and where he thinks the whole industry is headed. If you're curious about building your own AI-powered assistants, augmenting your IT workflows, or just want a better handle on demystifying "the network layer," this episode is packed with insights. Resources: John' Github Repo [https://github.com/automateyournetwork] John's YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYE2gcN4wWewmriAP2QlT2A] --- This episode is brought to you by Opsleader Pro [https://opsleader.co/pro]. A place for MSP owners and managers to get the systems and tools they need to build a stable and growing MSP. Part group coaching, part peer group, everything you need to run a successful MSP.

ERP131 - Health and Wellness in IT

Today's topic is close to my heart and, honestly, one that doesn't get enough airtime in the IT industry: health and wellness. Joining me for this conversation is my Paul Vedder [https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulvedderjr/], CEO of VXIT, a return guest you might remember from a Episode 77 [https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/20556251]. We're talking about what it takes to prioritize our physical and mental health—while juggling the endless demands of business ownership, parenthood, and life in the tech world. Paul unpacks his personal journey: from the challenges of work-life balance and struggles with unhealthy habits, to discovering the power of change through things like the 75 Hard challenge, ditching alcohol, and building sustainable routines that actually stick. We dig into the importance of accountability, how discipline can unlock true freedom, and why sometimes the smallest steps—like a daily walk—can have the biggest impact. If you've ever felt like you can't find the time, energy, or motivation to look after yourself, this episode is going to speak to you. We get honest about the trade-offs, the wins, and why choosing to invest in your well-being pays off in every other aspect of your life and business. So, whether you're listening on your lunch break, out for a walk, or just looking for that spark to get started—stick around. There's a lot of practical wisdom, some laughs, and maybe that nudge you've been needing to make a positive shift. This episode is brought to you by Opsleader Pro [https://opsleader.co/pro]. A place for MSP owners and managers to get the systems and tools they need to build a stable and growing MSP. Part group coaching, part peer group, everything you need to run a successful MSP.

ERP130 - Project Delays and Failures, Breaking the Cycle

Today I'm speaking to Mike Psenka [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-psenka-208a97a/], CEO of Moovila [https://www.moovila.com], once again. If you missed our previous episode together, Advanced Project Management—episode 104 [https:/www.evolvedmgmt.com/podcast/erp104-advanced-project-management]—I highly recommend checking it out for some great insights. Today, we're diving into a topic that's been top of mind for me and, honestly, I believe not enough people in the MSP industry are paying close attention to it: project management and profitability. We'll break down some eye-opening stats about how 25% of the MSP channel is either breaking even or losing money—and how poor project management is often the hidden culprit, even when service delivery is profitable. We're going deep into why projects are causing financial headaches and customer churn, and, more importantly, what MSPs can actually do to fix it. Mike and I will talk through real-world challenges, practical fundamentals, and how AI and automation are changing the game for project delivery. Whether you're struggling with projects, worried about client retention, or just looking to level up your operational maturity, this episode is packed with actionable advice. This episode is brought to you by Opsleader Pro [https://opsleader.co/pro]. A place for MSP owners and managers to get the systems and tools they need to build a stable and growing MSP. Part group coaching, part peer group, everything you need to run a successful MSP.