638: The Podcast Air: Slimmer, Lighter, and the newest one we ever made

In this episode of Command Control Power, hosts Jerry and Joe discuss a special new episode's launch, emphasizing their latest, more advanced podcast. They explore two in-depth client cases, detailing their troubleshooting strategies for corrupted macOS systems and the importance of solid backup solutions. The discussion covers issues related to file system corruption, shared disc mode, Apple silicon, MDM capabilities, and exemplary client service experiences. Joe shares insights into using Apple’s tools more effectively and a handy tip for managing Netflix sign-outs on Samsung TVs.

00:00 Introduction and Special Opening

00:25 Groundbreaking Podcast Announcement

01:39 Pet Peeves and Shipping Woes

04:34 Technical Issues and Text Messaging

11:05 Repairing Computers and User Issues

25:49 Backup Solutions and Best Practices

28:57 Backup Strategies and Client Calls

29:17 Troubleshooting a Mac Studio with Full Storage

30:16 Shared Disk Mode and Carbon Copy Cloner Issues

32:25 Client Backup and OS Version Discovery

35:55 File System Corruption and Recovery

42:32 Apple Store and Client Referrals

47:05 Client Misunderstandings and Device Management

53:53 Family Reunion and Netflix Sign-Out Trick

56:50 Conclusion and Future Episodes

633: A Latte About Apple: Commando, Convos, and Coffee

In this episode of Command Control Power, Joe and Sam catch up after attending a confidential Apple Technical Summit. They discuss the event’s highlights, including networking opportunities and technical presentations. Sam shares his experience improving a client's old IT setup, moving them to modern managed services and security practices. Joe dives into his quest for an ideal phone solution with group SMS capabilities, ultimately considering sticking with RingCentral due to recent features supported by AI. The episode also touches on the importance and challenges of maintaining high-quality internet service at a fair price and explores the potential environmental impact of AI note-taking.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts Reunion

00:15 NDA Event and Apple Summit

01:31 Networking and Connections

03:01 San Jose and Big Basin Adventures

06:18 Technical Summit Insights

09:12 Funny Poolside Moments

11:03 Caseless Phones and Engineering Marvels

16:31 Coffee Talk and AeroPress Trivia

25:22 Billing Challenges and Solutions

28:29 Client Negotiations and Agreement

28:55 Email Security and Phishing

29:52 Security Training and Awareness

31:30 New Client with Technical Debt

33:45 Managed Services Plan Pitch

37:41 AI in Client Communication

38:32 Phone Service Saga

51:34 Optimum Fiber and Internet Deals

56:49 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics

620: From Rooftops in Spain to QuickBooks User Pains

Cirrus Partners

In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss recent events including a vacation and the ACEs conference. They dive into a detailed troubleshooting story involving QuickBooks server issues and explore the challenges associated with setting up Windows PCs and QuickBooks for clients. Additional topics include managing one password admin access for clients and a debate over using cases for Macs. The episode also highlights the 10th anniversary of the Mac Admins community and offers useful insights for managed service providers.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:08 Vacation Recap: London and Spain

01:11 The Sunday Roast Experience

01:52 Yorkshire Pudding and British Cuisine

03:50 Party in Spain: Music, Conversations, and More

08:50 Back to Work: QuickBooks Troubles

28:46 QuickBooks Desktop vs. Online: The Cost Debate

29:11 Client's PC Purchase and Windows Upgrade Issues

30:12 Navigating Windows Setup and Software Challenges

31:00 Billing and Discounted Rates Discussion

33:00 Two-Factor Authentication Troubleshooting

35:11 One Password Support and Admin Access

47:10 Mac Admins Community and Personal Anecdotes

49:50 Client Device Trade-In and Repair Issues

51:58 Case or No Case: Protecting Your Devices

Thank you to our Patreon Sponsors!

Best Of CCP - Interview with Dr. Howard Oakley of The Eclectic Light Company

Sam Valencia, Jerry Zigmont and Joe Saponare discuss working with Apple technology and clients. Drawn from their combined experience of over 20 years in the Apple Consultants Network, they discuss technical support issues both with the technology and working with clients.

Patreon Show - 572: Exploring Legacy Software, CGNAT Challenges, and AI's Impact on Privacy

In this patron-only episode of Command Control Power, the hosts reflect on past conferences, such as Lightspeed in Montreal, and the challenges of utilizing the Lightspeed software for consulting businesses. The conversation shifts to Unifi network monitoring setups and the unique complications presented by Carrier Grade NAT (CGNAT) on residential ISP connections. The hosts discuss potential security and monitoring solutions for modern clients, including Unifi's professional phone support and Wattbox. Finally, the episode examines the growing concerns around AI voice cloning, its potential for misuse, and ideas for safeguarding privacy in a digital age.

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.

“Don’t negotiate against yourself” - 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 it’s “east of the Mississippi”.