S8E4: Tate Talks - With James Steel, Salesbuildr

In this energised and insightful episode, Chris Tate sits down with Scott Riley, founder of Cloud Nexus and co-creator of the fast-growing SaaS tool Inside Agent. From their shared beginnings at GCI to Scott’s leap into consultancy, and now SaaS, this episode is packed with stories, wisdom, and valuable advice for anyone in the MSP space.Scott shares how Cloud Nexus grew from a consultancy focused on Microsoft 365 and Azure into a trusted delivery partner for MSPs—and how years of helping MSPs led to the creation of Inside Agent, a multi-tenant 365 security platform purpose-built for MSPs.They also talk about data centre fires, Red Nose Day panic rooms, poker-based video games, power-washing Wallace & Gromit’s house (yes, really), and the importance of video content, white space analysis, and peer groups for MSP growth. Topics covered:Why Scott pivoted from MSP-style consultancy to SaaSHow Inside Agent was built and validated in less than a yearVideo marketing and building trust at scaleHandling burnout, scaling small teams, and apprentice success storiesTips for white space analysis and sustainable business growthStories from Comic Relief tech chaos and GCI acquisitions Books and Podcasts Mentioned:The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. GerberThe Go-Giver by Bob Burg$100M Offers and $100M Leads by Alex HormoziPaul Green’s MSP Marketing Podcast (implied through Paul Green reference)Bearded 365 Guy – YouTube reviews by Jonathan EdwardsAbout ScottConnect with Scott on LinkedIn ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out Cloud Nexus and Inside AgentMusic - https://www.purple-planet.com

How do you build a cybersecurity offering that actually works—and gets clients to pay for it?On this episode of Tate Talks, I sit down with Kristian Wright, a Channel veteran with a fascinating journey from graphic design to running MSPs and now leading Enhanced IO, a cybersecurity company for MSPs.We discuss:✅ Why layering security is essential (and how to package it for clients)✅ How MSPs can navigate the increasingly complex vendor landscape✅ What to do when clients refuse to invest in security (and how to protect yourself)✅ Kristian’s career journey—including his unexpected link to royalty!If you’re an MSP looking to improve your cybersecurity strategy, pricing, and sales approach, this episode is a must-listen.Connect with Kristian on LinkedIn ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the Enhanced IO website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

Marketing is one of the biggest challenges MSPs face—but what if you had a system that made it simple and effective? In this episode, I sit down with Paul Green, the go-to MSP marketing expert, author of MSP Marketing: Start Here, and host of Paul Green’s MSP Marketing Podcast.Paul shares his step-by-step approach to marketing, covering:✅ How to build an audience of the right prospects✅ Why growing relationships is key to long-term success✅ The simple but effective system that can help MSPs win new clients consistentlyWhether you’re struggling with lead generation, stuck in a marketing rut, or just want to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.📖 Grab Paul’s book here - https://amzn.to/3XKOQmnAbout PaulConnect with Paul on LinkedIn ⁠here⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the MSP Marketing Edge website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode of Tate Talks, I sit down with Taylor Tabusa, co-founder of Palisade, a DMARC automation platform designed specifically for MSPs. We explore Taylor’s unique journey from winemaking in Napa to launching an email security company and discuss why email authentication is now a must-have for MSPs. We also cover the broader challenges MSPs face today, from growth strategies to tool fatigue, and how vendors can better support the industry. Spam Resource Blog by Al Iverson – https://www.spamresource.comAbout TaylorConnect with Taylor on LinkedIn here ⁠⁠and check out the Palisade website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

Episode 50: When the Tables TurnIn this milestone episode of Tate Talks, host Chris Tate reconnects with his very first guest—Scott Tyson of Sophos—but with a twist: Scott takes the reins as host and flips the script! Together, they journey back through the early days of the MSP world, reminiscing about the pioneering era of mini-computers, early automation tools, and the move from on-premise to cloud-based services.This candid conversation blends humor, industry insights, and personal reflections as Chris and Scott discuss how managed services evolved from a unique differentiator to industry “table stakes.” They dive into the importance of vendor partnerships, the challenges of global recruitment in today’s remote work landscape, and the enduring value of community within the tech space. Whether you’re a long-time MSP veteran or just starting out, this episode offers fresh perspectives, practical advice, and a heartfelt tribute to the journey of growth and change in the tech world.Enjoy the conversation!About ScottConnect with Scott on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the Sophos website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

In this Season Nine opening episode of Tate Talks, Chris sits down with Tracie Orisko, a well-known name in the MSP space, to discuss her fascinating journey—from co-founding Managed Sales Pros to her current role leading sales development and community at Huntress.Tracie shares insights on:Her unexpected entry into the MSP industry (and how a trip to Disney played a part).The evolution of cold calling and why ethical sales practices matter.The biggest challenges facing MSPs in 2025, including staffing and cybersecurity threats.The importance of building community and strong vendor-partner relationships.Her personal passions, from scuba diving to fiction books from little libraries.Plus, she drops valuable advice on how MSPs can improve their sales process, avoid common pitfalls, and stay ahead in an increasingly complex industry.About TracieConnect with Tracie on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the Huntress website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode of Tate Talks, Chris Tate welcomes back Rob Rae, Corporate VP of Communities and Ecosystems at Pax8, as the first returning guest. Rob shares insights on the evolving MSP landscape, including challenges in scaling, leveraging AI, and navigating complexity. He highlights Pax8's innovative marketplace model and its impact on MSP growth and vendor relationships. They also discuss the value of in-person events, community building, and how MSPs can prepare for 2025 by embracing AI and staying adaptable. Tune in for actionable advice and a glimpse into Rob’s unique journey in the IT channel. About Rob Connect with Rob on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the Pax8 website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

Welcome to Tate Talks Season 8 In this episode of Tate Talks, I sat down with MSP veteran Eric Anthony to explore the evolving journey of Managed Service Providers (MSPs). From humble beginnings tinkering with Radio Shack computers to becoming a leader in the MSP and IT service provider community, Eric shares his unique story and key insights. Tune in as we discuss the MSP landscape, touching on the challenges of cybersecurity, AI's potential (and risks) in business, and the importance of a consultative approach for driving business outcomes. We also delve into personal experiences, the benefits of disconnecting from tech, and the value of non-technical discussions within the MSP community. Whether you're an MSP looking to grow or interested in the tech industry's behind-the-scenes, this episode has something for you. We (well Eric) also had a great idea for using AI to improve communication over timezones... Enjoy! About Eric Connect with Eric on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the All Things/MSP Facebook page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

Welcome to Tate Talks Season 8 Today we chatted with motorsport loving DJ, James Steel of Salesbuildr - Hope you enjoy.. About James James Steel is the Channel Chief at Salesbuildr and MSP channel veteran. With experience leading partner programs at Linode/Akamai and running UK MSP distribution, James brings a unique perspective on channel growth. Known for his engaging video content and industry live streams, he combines his passion for sales transformation with his marketing expertise to help MSPs succeed. When not revolutionizing MSP sales processes, you'll find him on a track day, racing in VR or shooting motorsport photography." Connect with James on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the Salesbuildr website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music - https://www.purple-planet.com

Welcome to Tate Talks Season 8 Today we chatted with Arlin Sorensen of ConnectWise We discussed the history of ATG, Dan Scott, farming and much more Books The Go Giver by y Bob Burg & John David Mann  About MJ Connect with Arlin on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠and check out the ConnectWise website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music - https://www.purple-planet.com