In Part 1 of this two part episode of Channel Insider: Partner POV, host Katie Bavoso is joined by two of the three hosts of what some say is the longest running MSP podcast, MSP Unplugged. Paco Lebron and Corey Kirkendoll are both CEOs of their managed services businesses. Lebron runs ProdigyTeks out of Chicago, IL and Kirkendoll leads 5K Technical Services out of Plano, TX. The two host the weekly podcast MSP Unplugged alongside Rick Smith, CEO and founder of managed services business Renactus Technology out of Elizabeth, NJ. Lebron and Kirkendoll explain their cybersecurity-first mindset, but clarify this does not make them MSSPs. However, they point out the definition of what an MSSP actually is is murky and the lack of MSP regulation aggravates this reality even more. Lebron explains the goal of MSP Unplugged is to help MSPs, no matter their size or maturity level, get the advice they need on running their IT businesses better and feel supported by the greater MSP community. It all started after Lebron said he had a negative experience at an IT channel event when he felt his business and others like it were not being taken seriously or supported properly.

AI, integrations, and evolving vendor strategies are reshaping partner programs and MSP ecosystems in 2026.

Cisco unveiled Cloud Control and a new AgenticOps strategy, creating new opportunities in services, integration, and AI governance.

CHG-MERIDIAN’s Simon Harrsen explains how financing, device lifecycle management, and more expand opportunities.

Delta Bear CEO Daniel Elliott joins Channel Insider: Partner POV to discuss deepfake attacks, AI impersonation risks, cyber insurance gaps, and MSP opportunities.

Logically CEO Joshua Skeens discusses board-level cyber risk, brand protection, tool sprawl, AI ROI, and MSP strategy.

Katie Bavoso sits down with MK Tong, CEO of SotaTek USA, to break down why infrastructure—not AI models—is the real bottleneck for enterprise success
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