Aesopians Episode 1 – Azure Cloud For MSPs
Last Updated: January 24, 2025
In the debut episode of Aesopian’s Podcast, host Hunter Nelson sits down with Matt Hache, an infrastructure consultant at PAX8 and founder of Neon Cobra, to explore how Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can harness Azure cloud technology to modernize their businesses and unlock growth. This conversation is packed with actionable strategies and expert advice, making it essential for MSPs aiming to thrive in today’s tech landscape.
Spotify Link:
Apple Podcasts Link:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/aesopians-the-msp-marketing-podcast/id1791200285
Additional Resources
- Matt’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewhache/
- Pax 8: https://www.pax8.com/en-us/find-a-partner/
- Neon Cobra: https://neoncobra.cloud/
Show Notes
Introduction to Aesopian’s Podcast
Podcast Introduction
Hunter Nelson introduced the Aesopian’s podcast, focusing on providing MSP marketing insights. He welcomed Matt Hache as the first guest, highlighting his roles at PAX8 and Neon Cobra.
Introduction of Matt Hache
Matt Hache, featured in the first episode, shared insights about leveraging Azure cloud technology to grow MSPs and expand service offerings.
Azure Cloud Discussion
Leveraging Azure for MSP Growth
Hunter and Matt discussed how MSPs can utilize Azure cloud technology to expand service offerings, modernize practices, and increase revenues.
Importance of Cloud Infrastructure
They emphasized the value of adopting cloud solutions, highlighting the benefits of operational expenses over capital expenses.
Matt Hache’s Background
Professional Experience
Matt shared his career journey, starting as an MSP and evolving into a solutions architect, project manager, and infrastructure consultant at PAX8.
Neon Cobra Project
Matt introduced his side project, Neon Cobra, which aims to educate MSPs by simplifying Microsoft documentation and providing actionable insights for Azure adoption.
Challenges with Azure Adoption
Educational Challenges
Matt discussed how Microsoft’s documentation is often tailored to enterprises, making it challenging for MSPs to extract relevant information.
Importance of Focus
He highlighted the need for MSPs to prioritize cloud infrastructure over distractions like AI, emphasizing the value of mastering core technologies first.
Operational Changes
Matt explained the operational shifts required for Azure adoption, including updates to billing practices and the need for continuous education.
Benefits of Cloud Infrastructure for MSPs
Operational vs. Capital Expenses
Hunter and Matt highlighted the advantages of moving to an operational expense (OpEx) model, offering more financial stability and agility.
Modernizing Business Practices
They discussed transitioning from traditional on-premise solutions to scalable, flexible cloud-based services to stay competitive.
Resilience and Agility
Matt emphasized how cloud infrastructure supports resilience during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic by reducing reliance on physical hardware.
Marketing and Content Strategy for MSPs
Content Strategy
Hunter and Matt encouraged MSPs to create targeted content addressing specific problems and solutions clients are searching for.
Proactive Marketing
They stressed the importance of introducing new technologies and solutions to clients before they recognize the need, positioning the MSP as a trusted advisor.
Aligning with Value
Matt advised MSPs to focus on showcasing their successes and the tangible benefits they provide, rather than merely promoting services.
White Label Support Options
Support for MSPs
Matt shared that distributors like PAX8 and third-party services offer professional support to assist MSPs with cloud adoption.
Common Cloud Projects for MSPs
Accounting Firms
Matt noted that accounting firms benefit from cloud scalability, enabling resource adjustments based on seasonal demands.
Law Firms
Law firms adopt cloud infrastructure for enhanced security and compliance, efficiently managing sensitive data.
Data and GPU Workloads
Matt highlighted challenges for organizations with large data quantities and GPU workloads, noting costs and complexity as potential barriers.
Startups and Software-Oriented Companies
Scalability Benefits
Hunter and Matt discussed how cloud infrastructure supports startups with scalability and facilitates cost-effective development.
AI and Cloud Integration
AI Adoption
They explored the increasing role of AI in businesses, addressing both its potential value and risks like data sanitization challenges.
Cloud Integration
Matt emphasized how cloud solutions enable scalable AI integration, simplifying the adoption of advanced technologies.
Data Preparation
He stressed the importance of clean, secure, and high-quality data for successful AI implementation.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
MSP Preparedness
Matt advised MSPs to stay informed about cloud options and maintain contingency plans to remain competitive.
Embracing New Technologies
He highlighted the importance of understanding and discussing emerging technologies to maintain a leading edge in the market.
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