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IT Pros: exclusive shows await you on Patreon, focusing on the more challenging aspects of running your practice and working with clients and employees.


571: The ACEs 2024 Debrief We Never Knew We Needed

In this episode of Command Control Power, host Joe and co-hosts Sam and Jerry debrief the ACEs Conference 2024. The episode also touches on the various technologies and vendor booths that fascinated the hosts, including LionGuard and Halo PSA, as well as the different people they met and reconnected with. Sam's presentation on his MSP journey is highlighted alongside humorous moments and key takeaways. A special thanks to Justin Esgar for organizing a successful conference!

Topics:

Adam Engst delivered a thought provoking presentation about AI.

A great list of patrons, friends, and fellow consultants were at the conference this year.

We reflect on the overall conference experience and the parts we loved the most.

Smaller conferences offer a more intimate experience.

Sam had the opportunity to present at ACES this year and he discusses how we are always learning.

He opened the kimono so to speak to get into his billing practices over the years.

ā€œDonā€™t negotiate against yourselfā€ - Joe Saponare

Brian Lattanzio and Omar Elshamy came to represent Apple, as well as offer a custom training.

Jerry will be at the next one, as long as itā€™s ā€œeast of the Mississippiā€.

569: Tech Fails and Tail Wags: Command Control Power Gets Personal

Thanks to our VIP Sponsors!

Topics:

Day in the Life: We talk busy schedules and naps on trains.

Joe talks about his concert adventures and the power of naps.

One of Joeā€™s client has an issue with the mail preview pane.

Sam is a glutton for punishment by continuing to use Apple Mail and Calendar for Exchange.

The ongoing debate (or is it?): PCs are for Business, Mac computers for home?

Navigating Calendly's features and scheduling challenges.

Vendor Venting: A deep dive into Adobe's licensing woes.

27:39 A Personal Touch: From Breakfast in Queens to Veterinary Ventures

Working with both Google and Microsoft.

A Shoutout to our newest VIP Supporters - Cirrus Partners!

Check out the merch shop!

Evaluating the Key Smart Card.

Jerry recommends an Amazon Prime show called Clarksonā€™s Farm.

Thank you to our Patreon sponsors!

567: Shelley Watson of DBQ Technology - Evolving Careers and Combating Industry Biases

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In this episode of Command Control Power, we welcome back Shelley Watson, a seasoned professional in the tech industry. We delve into a wide range of topics including Shelley's history of presenting and training and her transition from running Wheelwrights to starting a new business venture. The discussion moves into deeper waters as Shelley shares insights on ageism, gender bias in the tech industry, and the importance of building trust with clients. She emphasizes the value of experience, synthesizing information, and how being seasoned professionals can give them an edge. Shelley also touches on the significance of having a constructive influence beyond just technical assistance and the importance of diversity and amplification in the workplace. The conversation is peppered with personal anecdotes, professional advice, and Shelleyā€™s outlook on the future of her career.

We talk a bit about Shelley's journey and her training days.

There is an art in being an extrovert and engaging with audiences

Shelley talks about transitioning from Wheelwrights to DBQ Technology

Navigating the Pandemic: Adapting to remote work and training

She discusses the challenges and strategies of closing a business

Vendor relationships and the intricacies of business closure can be a tough road

We discuss building trust and demonstrating motives in business

Jerry has questions about navigating age and experience in the consulting world

This leads us down a path to gender bias in our field

Shelley talks about the power of amplification

People say things that are indicators as to who they are. Pay attention to those queues

t may be uncomfortable to do so, but it is key to find ways to make someone aware of something they said

You may not feel like your comment will matter, but you could be one of many that triggers change

Progress, improvement, relief is important for people

The Role of Technology Professionals in Social Change

Concluding Thoughts on Ageism and Future Conversations

Shelley was hoping to get into her favorite conversation like the Hold Harmless clause, which means we will have to have her back on again!

Check out http://commandcontrolpower.com/dbqtech for Command Control Power merchandise

In Memory of Charles Edge: A Conversation Revisited

Beloved Author and Apple Authority Passes Away

The Apple community mourns the loss of Charles Edge, a renowned author and expert who dedicated his career to empowering users with knowledge.

Charles was a cornerstone for many Apple enthusiasts. His acclaimed book series, "Take Control of OS X Server," provided users with clear and comprehensive guidance on managing their server environments. He was also known for his ongoing work on a historical chronicle of computing, showcasing his passion for technology's evolution.

Beyond his publications, Charles was admired for his genuine kindness and willingness to share his expertise. He leaves behind a legacy of not only valuable resources, but also a spirit of helpfulness that enriched the Apple community.

Command Control Power remembers Charles Edge, a friend and expert we had the pleasure of speaking with. This conversation from 2014 is a testament to his knowledge and enduring legacy. We miss him dearly.

Sincerely,

Joe, Sam, and Jerry