Uncle Marv welcomes Annie Mosbacher and Kristin Spiotto, co-founders of Decoded Strategies, to discuss their unique approach to marketing for MSPs. The conversation kicks off with a lighthearted chat about recent movies, setting the stage for a deeper dive into storytelling in marketing.

Annie and Kristin explain how their company differs from traditional marketing agencies by focusing on story-based strategies. They emphasize the importance of positioning the customer as the hero and the company as the guide in marketing narratives. This approach helps MSPs create more engaging and effective marketing messages that resonate with their target audience.

The duo highlights common mistakes MSPs make in their marketing efforts, such as jumping straight into tactics without developing a clear brand story. They stress the need for MSPs to invest time in crafting their unique message before spending money on websites, SEO, or other marketing channels.

Annie and Kristin share insights on how MSPs can become trusted guides for their clients, emphasizing the importance of empathy and authority in marketing communications. They also discuss the challenges of differentiating in a crowded market and offer strategies for standing out. The conversation touches on Decoded Strategies' journey into the MSP space, their partnerships with industry organizations like ASCII, and their upcoming workshop for MSPs looking to improve their marketing strategies.

Throughout the episode, Annie and Kristin provide valuable advice for MSPs looking to enhance their marketing efforts, emphasizing the power of clear, customer-centric messaging and the importance of storytelling in building lasting client relationships.

Websites mentioned:

• Decoded Strategies - www.decodedstrategies.com
• Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/35yfpa2u
• Contact for ASCII Webinar? Email hello@decodedstrategies.com
• Wild Robot Movie Trailer: https://tinyurl.com/bdj8un77

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

• Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Author: AlexanderRufire
• License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Uncle Marv kicks off the show by addressing the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, particularly in the Western Carolina and Eastern Tennessee areas. The storm caused significant damage, with at least 162 deaths reported and 1.3 million customers still without power across several states.

The conversation then shifts to disaster recovery planning, with Jason and Justine sharing their thoughts on preparing for unexpected events. They discuss the importance of cloud-based solutions and the need for comprehensive disaster recovery strategies, even in areas not typically prone to certain types of natural disasters.

The podcast delves into the recent TechCon Unplugged conference, with both guests offering their insights and takeaways. They highlight the quality of content, the value of networking opportunities, and the unique atmosphere that sets TechCon apart from larger industry events. The discussion touches on topics such as hiring practices, process improvements, and the benefits of smaller, more intimate conferences.

Uncle Marv also announces his decision to join the National Society of IT Service Providers (NSITSP), an organization focused on transforming the IT industry into a recognized profession and establishing high standards and ethics for IT service providers.

The episode concludes with a lighthearted segment featuring "Florida Man" stories, including amusing anecdotes from Oklahoma and Florida, showcasing the quirky side of local news.

Links from the show:

1. National Society of IT Service Providers (NSITSP) - https://nsitsp.org/
2. Oklahoma Man steals truck to go to court: https://tinyurl.com/2bjh2m8h
3. Florida Man "going to jail as a pickle thief": https://tinyurl.com/yc3n52ve
4. Oklahoma Woman drives drunk on airport runway: https://tinyurl.com/2fnaz6a2

Upcoming Conferences:

• ASCII Edge (The Cup) October 23-24 in Tampa: https://events.ascii.com/tampa/
• DattoCon, October 28-30 in Miami: https://www.dattocon.com/
• IT Nation Connect, November 6-8 in Orlando: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/connect-na
  • Save $250 complements of the IT Business Podcast with Promo Code MarvinBPodcast250

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

• Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Author: AlexanderRufire
• License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024

Uncle Marv kicks off the episode by apologizing for not addressing Hurricane Helene earlier in the week. He provides an update on the hurricane's impact, mentioning its landfall as a Category 4 storm near Perry, with winds reaching 140 mph and affecting millions of residents. He then shares his go-to hurricane tracking apps:

• Hurricane Tracker (paid version for faster alerts)
• Windy (for detailed wind speed information)
• MyRadar (for comprehensive weather data and forecasts)

The main focus of the episode is a recent conversation Uncle Marv had with a new business owner. This entrepreneur had encountered a challenging prospective client and made the tough decision to decline the opportunity. Uncle Marv applauds this decision and outlines three key takeaways:

1. Recognizing and declining problematic clients early: Uncle Marv emphasizes the importance of identifying red flags in potential clients, such as undervaluing expertise or having unrealistic expectations.

• Setting clear boundaries and expectations: He stresses the need for a structured onboarding process and clear communication of responsibilities between the service provider and the client.
• Focusing on quality over quantity: Uncle Marv shares his own experience of running a "boutique" business, highlighting the benefits of specializing in a specific industry (in his case, law firms) and concentrating on high-value services.

The episode concludes with encouragement for new and struggling business owners to be selective with clients and prioritize quality relationships for long-term success.

Websites Mentioned

• Hurricane Tracker app (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-hurricane-tracker-alerts/id1020486515)
• Windy app (https://www.windy.com)
• MyRadar app (https://myradar.com/)

=== Show Information

• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
• Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
• Become a monthly supporter: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/unclemarv

=== Music:

• Song: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
• Author: AlexanderRufire
• License Code: 7X9F52DNML - Date: January 1st, 2024