632: Patched Up and Better Than Ever

In this episode, the hosts of Command Control Power discuss a range of IT management topics including the challenges of scheduling in summer, handling client updates with Electrona’s Patch and Addigy’s prebuilt apps, and the intricacies of using Microsoft Outlook. They explore the benefits and drawbacks of these different tools, including how to streamline updates and ensure clients' systems are running smoothly. The conversation also dives into hands-on experiences and technical steps for deploying effective IT solutions, backed by insights from their experiences and interactions with support teams. Additionally, new features like mobile application management in Intune are highlighted for their potential to enhance device security without full MDM enrollment. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the usefulness of different menu bar apps and support methods.

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up

00:11 Client Visits and Scheduling Challenges

01:42 SonicWall Upgrade Troubles

07:27 Beta Software Experiences

09:12 Patch and Software Updates

24:14 Understanding Prebuilt Apps and Configuration Profiles

24:59 Consolidating Management Platforms

25:46 Exploring New Products and Trials

26:31 Patch Management and Menu Bar Customization

29:33 Client Interaction and Support Strategies

38:33 Intune and Mobile Application Management

40:51 Outlook vs. Apple Mail

49:41 Wrapping Up and Patreon Support

631: Monitor Mayhem and the Search for the Perfect Pixel

In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss their experiences with various monitor setups, emphasizing ultra-wide and large screens, while exploring technical issues and preferences. They dive into topics such as monitor pixel density, enhanced connectivity settings for Unifi networks, and share personal anecdotes about client interactions and equipment setups. The episode also includes light humor and listener engagement, underscoring the blend of technical insights and casual conversation that characterizes the show.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:11 Monitor Preferences and Recommendations

01:50 Client Interaction and Monitor Shaming

02:50 Exploring Ultra-Wide Monitors

04:28 Remote Upgrades for Clients

10:47 Adjusting Monitor Settings for Clarity

15:37 Comparing Monitor Specifications

26:29 The Cost of Standard Glass

26:38 Living Room Office Setup

27:16 Choosing the Right Monitor

30:08 Apple TV and Aspect Ratios

33:01 Monitor vs TV Debate

38:37 Monitor Control App Insights

40:55 Unify Network Issues

50:44 Wrapping Up with Humor

Best Of CCP - 403: I Hope You Find Honest Work One Day

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, thaey discuss technical support issues both with the technology and working with clients.

629: Balancing Tech Support: Accessibility, Solo Entrepreneurship & Innovative Solutions with Adam Rice

In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts are joined by returning guest Adam Rice of Ask Adam. They discuss the challenges and benefits of being a solo tech support consultant, including balancing large business clients with residential work. Adam shares his innovative equitable pricing model, designed to make tech support accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. The conversation also touches on tools like TailScale and Alectrona Patch, effective strategies for leveraging tech tools as a solo consultant, and the nuances of building and maintaining client trust in both residential and business settings.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back, Adam Rice!

00:28 Adam's Background and Living in Philadelphia

02:08 Residential vs. Business Clients

02:47 Solo Consulting and Family Involvement

06:45 Challenges of Hiring and Subcontracting

16:35 Marketing Strategies and Client Demographics

21:39 Private Equity and Client Stability

27:20 Navigating Business Without Contracts

28:33 Shifting Focus to Residential Clients

29:58 The Importance of Client Relationships

31:47 Discussing Business Rates and Models

32:54 Implementing Equitable Pricing

35:03 Challenges and Benefits of Sliding Scale Pricing

48:58 Tools and Techniques for Business Efficiency

57:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

628: Apple WWDC 2026 Highlights, 1Password for MSP’s & The Ongoing UniFi 6GHz Wi-Fi Debate

Cirrus Partners

In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts discuss recent Apple updates, including the new liquid glass feature and macOS support schedules up to 2028. They share their insights on the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) announcements and speculate on client feedback regarding OS support timelines. The conversation also delves into technical aspects and user experiences with Unifi’s six-gigahertz WiFi, highlighting troubleshooting steps like disabling the 6GHz band for improved stability. The team also touches on seamless transitions to 1Password MSP, comparing pricing and feature benefits. Through the exchange, they offer practical advice for managing both client and personal tech infrastructures as they keep an eye on emerging technologies and services.

00:00 Introduction and Recent Show Recap

00:25 Apple's Liquid Glass Announcement

00:45 macOS Support Timeline Discussion

04:10 Liquid Glass Early Impressions

06:35 MDM Migration Functionality

09:01 FileVault and MDM Enhancements

10:33 Intel Macs and macOS Tahoe Compatibility

13:32 Client Perspectives on Mac Longevity

26:39 Mac Mini Model Years Overview

27:36 Challenges with Mac Mini Hardware

28:11 Using Mac Mini for Various Tasks

30:26 Client Support and OS Upgrades

36:23 One Password MSP Transition

48:47 UniFi System Issues and Solutions

52:46 Conclusion and Farewell

627: Proving Chemistry: Sam & Jerry's Tech Talk

Proving Chemistry: Sam & Jerry's Tech Talk

In this episode of Command Control Power, Sam and Jerry address listener feedback about their on-air chemistry and dive into a variety of tech discussions. Sam talks about his recent MacBook Pro M4 upgrade and the challenges he faced during the data migration process. The duo discusses the importance of maintaining and justifying tech expenses, with Sam sharing his strategy of integrating different services using Hudu for efficient billing and management. Jerry shares a humorous support call mix-up, stressing the importance of communication. The episode also touches on VPN solutions using Ubiquiti's Teleport and the surprising endurance of legacy technologies like the iPod. Throughout, Sam and Jerry explore the nuances of staying relevant and efficient in tech consulting while maintaining client satisfaction.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

00:56 Mac Migration Woes

02:11 Challenges with Migration Assistant

03:16 Time Machine Backup Struggles

07:05 Choosing the Right MacBook

10:18 Travel Tales and Personal Insights

14:42 Client Challenges and Security Concerns

17:52 User Training and Security Solutions

28:42 Microsoft Signatures and Email Platforms

29:13 Balancing Technology Costs

30:04 Subscription Services and Expense Management

31:36 Cutting Costs and Employee Tools

34:21 Old Work Stories and Company Policies

40:16 Travel Gadgets and Recommendations

48:25 Client Management and Documentation Tools

50:59 Funny Client Interaction

53:33 Conclusion and Sign Off