Episode Details

Uncle Marv hosts a special 10-year reunion with Chad Kempt of Fast Computers to revisit their classic “Man in the Van vs. MSP” debate and explore how the world of solo techs and small MSPs has evolved. They dig into shifting vendor landscapes, realistic service models, and why being lean, documented, and relationship-driven still wins in today’s managed services space.

This episode offers hard-won insights into scaling without losing personal touch, crafting an exit-ready business, balancing SLAs, and surviving the vendor squeeze. Whether you’re a solo tech hustling daily or running a 20-person MSP, this candid, real-world conversation reminds everyone that good service is good service—no matter the size.

Companies, Products, and References

• Instant Housecall: https://www.instanthousecall.com
• Huntress: https://www.huntress.com
• Apple: https://www.apple.com
• Rogers: https://www.rogers.com
• Ingram Micro: https://www.ingrammicro.com
• Microsoft Azure: https://azure.microsoft.com
• Zoom: https://zoom.us
• IT Glue: https://www.itglue.com
• Kaseya: https://www.kaseya.com
• ASCII Group: https://www.ascii.com
• PAX8: https://www.pax8.com
• Datto (Datto): https://www.datto.com

SPONSORS:

• Livestream Partner, ThreatLocker: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/threatlocker
• Legacy Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
• Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmz
• Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
• Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
• Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
• Digital Partner, Designer Ready: http://itbusinesspodcast.com/designerready

SHOW MUSIC: 

• Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
• Author Username: AlexanderRufire
• Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML

=== Connect with Uncle Marv

🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast

If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.