What the Tech

FIT Technologies

FIT Technologies is excited to bring you our podcast What the Tech. In each episode, you’ll hear from guest speakers and experts at FIT about the importance of having a technology partner for your business, actionable strategies, technology trends, and tips and tricks to help you along your IT journey.

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20 episodes
Avg 10 min
English

Episodes 20

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July 6 · 16 min
More Lessons from Pax8 Beyond 2026
Pax8 Beyond Recap: From Managed Services to Managed Intelligence (and What’s Next for AI Agents)Fred and Adam reflect on Pax8 Beyond, noting that despite the focus on AI, the human element and face-to-face relationships remain the core reason people attend conferences, alongside highlights of visiting Salt Lake City. They discuss the industry shift from managed services to “managed intelligence,” emphasizing that AI adoption has accelerated rapidly and is now AI-first, with early wins in automating internal operations like ticket triage.Both stress being “client zero” by testing AI readiness, data governance, chat and voice agents internally so they can guide clients with real examples. Fred advises starting with understanding and mapping business processes before choosing platforms, while Adam warns organizations must begin adopting AI to stay competitive as barriers to entry fall. They predict growth in agent marketplaces, token/credit-based billing, new platforms for managing and training agents, and continued MSP demand to help translate and implement these changes.
June 22 · 12 min
What We Learned at Pax8 Beyond 2026
Becky Cross, VP of Client Partnerships at FIT Technologies, recaps key themes from the Pax8 Beyond Conference in Salt Lake City with Jason Collins (CISO) and Ali Tubbs Amato (COO), focusing on moving past AI hype to practical execution. Ali discusses how to operationalize AI by starting with clear pain points, measuring time savings and ROI, and using automation to remove remedial tasks so people can focus on more impactful work, noting that similar fears accompanied earlier technology shifts.Jason emphasizes that secure AI adoption starts with visibility—knowing what AI tools and automations exist, what they can access, and governing them like new identities—highlighting a session on identifying and mitigating AI risk through repeatable processes. The group also explores an industry shift from managed services to “managed intelligence,” and closes by stressing the importance of relationships, community, and sharing experiences across the MSP ecosystem.
May 27 · 10 min
Navigating IT Roadmaps: A Guide for SMB Leaders
Learn what a realistic three-year IT roadmap looks like for small to mid-size businesses: a living business plan, not a static wishlist. FIT's Becky Cross and Fred Franks outline three drivers for roadmap priorities: strategic initiatives, productivity improvements, and compliance/risk needs—so technology supports business goals instead of chasing “shiny objects." Fred discusses how pacing should match an organization’s appetite for change to avoid fatigue, how to handle executive conflict by returning to a shared vision and commitments, and why three-year plans should be held loosely while 12-month plans are firmer for budgeting. They also cover measuring success through agreed outcomes and ROI, celebrating wins, and how “security first, mobile first” planning enabled continuity during the pandemic.
May 11 · 12 min
'Good Enough' IT
Is “perfect” slowing down your IT decisions? It might be.In this episode of What the Tech, Becky Cross (VP of Client Partnerships) sits down with Fred Franks (Chief Strategy Officer at FIT Technologies) to tackle a common challenge businesses face: knowing when “good enough” is actually the smartest path forward. As organizations navigate fast-changing areas like cybersecurity and AI, waiting for the perfect solution can lead to missed opportunities—or even increased risk. Becky and Fred break down how to balance speed vs. precision, why inaction can be more dangerous than making the wrong decision, and how to approach IT strategy with confidence.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why “good enough” doesn’t mean cutting cornersHow to avoid analysis paralysis in IT decision-makingThe importance of outcome-based vs. tool-based decisionsHow to evaluate risk, cost, and timing when choosing technologyWhy continuous improvement beats waiting for perfectionHow cybersecurity and AI strategies benefit from a proactive approachFred also shares practical insights from working with organizations across industries—highlighting how businesses can move forward with clarity, even in uncertain or rapidly evolving tech landscapes.Key takeaway:The real risk isn’t making the wrong decision—it’s doing nothing at all.
April 21 · 8 min
The Boundary of AI Capabilities
In this episode, VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross, sits down with Chief Strategy Officer, Fred Franks, about what AI can reliably replace today while noting “agentic AI” can take limited actions using statistical prediction and pre-programmed logic. They warn against extremes of avoiding AI entirely or trying to replace everything, emphasizing that relational work and human creativity should not be fully automated. For leaders deciding when to invest, they recommend focusing on governance and guardrails, especially data protection, comparing data’s role in the AI revolution to electricity in the industrial revolution. They also advise professionals to intentionally learn AI skills as adoption accelerates. For more information about AI strategy: https://www.fittechnologies.com/it-services/managed-it-msa/
April 10 · 10 min
Balancing Technology and Human Touch in Help Desk Services
In this episode, Service Delivery Director, Rob Broida, argues that “people first” and AI-enabled support are compatible, emphasizing AI as a background tool that assists humans rather than replacing them. A people-first, AI-enabled help desk should feel like the agent knows the client’s business and environment, using AI to reduce effort, provide context, summarize requests, categorize tickets, and spot patterns while keeping ownership and relationships with users. He stresses that automation should handle repeatable tasks, but humans must lead when nuance, accountability, urgency, business impact, or heightened emotions arise, avoiding frustrating handoffs. Key AI adoption mistakes include automating before documenting processes and using AI primarily for cost cutting, which can create “fast mess.” FIT avoids pitfalls by automating documented low-friction work, keeping clear human escalation paths, and measuring quality, resolution, satisfaction, and confidence—not just speed. Learn more: https://www.fittechnologies.com/it-services/managed-it-msa/
March 26 · 6 min
The Employee Ownership Mindset
On this episode of What The Tech, host and FIT’s VP of Client Partnerships Becky Cross talks with CEO Adam Tubbs about what responsibility and real ownership look like in an ESOP. You’ll hear Adam talk about how ownership shows up when goals and accountability cascade through department-level VTOs (Vision Traction Organizer within EOS), empowering teams with measurable outcomes tied to company goals, continuous improvement, and peer recognition aligned to the core value “own it.” He explains his leadership shift toward making decisions in the best interest of all employee-shareholders and advises leaders to build trust, avoid micromanagement, and provide clear priorities and measurables so employees know if they’re “winning.” For organizations considering an ESOP, he stresses the hardest truth is the need for transparency, clarity of vision, and connection across all levels. For more information on the culture at FIT, visit our website: https://www.fittechnologies.com/our-story/
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March 9 · 7 min
Hidden IT Costs: Productivity and Risk Uncovered
In this episode, VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross, sits down with senior technology strategist, Pat McGuinness, about hidden IT costs that quietly reduce margins, slow growth, and increase risk. You’ll hear Pat talk about reactive IT and poor lifecycle management, where small daily slowdowns from aging devices and systems add up to significant annual labor cost. He also discusses how complexity from overlapping tools, shadow IT, and legacy systems creates security gaps, missed feature benefits, and surprise budget hits. Visibility and proactive planning—especially budgeting for regular hardware, endpoint, and software refreshes—help reduce long-term spend, improve compliance posture, and avoid larger, delayed replacement projects. To learn more about managed services: https://www.fittechnologies.com/it-services/managed-it-msa/
February 11 · 14 min
Vendor or Partner? How to Tell If Your MSP Is Truly Invested
In this episode, we explore the qualities to look for when selecting a primary guide or partner in your journey. While being responsive and handling immediate issues like a firefighter are valuable traits, it is essential to have someone who can effectively navigate and guide you through your long-term goals and challenges. This episode emphasizes the importance of finding a partner who will be reliable and supportive when you need them most, particularly in your absence.
January 30 · 8 min
Why Data Privacy is Everyone's Responsibility
In this episode of What The Tech, Becky Cross, VP of Client Partnerships, discusses the critical topic of data privacy with Jason Collins, FITs Chief Information Security Officer. They explore the misconceptions and risks associated with data retention from a C-level perspective and discuss how ingrained data privacy culture can quickly restore trust following breaches. Jason shares insights on the significance of both logical and physical data privacy and offers advice on proactive measures to manage data privacy effectively. They also touch on the amplified risks that emerging technologies like AI pose to data privacy. Tune in to learn essential strategies and best practices to safeguard your organization’s data.
January 14 · 9 min
The Future of Business Growth and Leveraging Technology
In this episode of What The Tech, host and VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross, is joined by Adam Tubbs, CEO at FIT Technologies, to discuss the pivotal role emerging technologies like AI and advanced cybersecurity play in driving business growth. The conversation delves into AI's impact on productivity, the importance of cybersecurity in decision-making, and the adaptation to hybrid work environments post-COVID. They also explore strategies for executives to increase their technology proficiency and the need for mutual ownership between IT departments and leadership. Tune in to learn how these elements are shaping growth strategies for businesses looking towards 2026.
Dec 18, 2025 · 7 min
From Process to Progress: The Foundations of Operational Maturity
In this episode, FIT’s Chief Operating Officer Ali Tubbs Amato discusses the importance of starting to document your processes from your current state with VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross. Ali emphasizes that everyone has to start somewhere, and it's crucial to begin with what you know and gradually build upon it. There's no need for perfection or extensive backtracking. By starting today, you can continue to refine and grow your documentation over time.
Dec 11, 2025 · 8 min
When 'It's Fine for Now' Isn't Enough
In this episode of What The Tech, Becky Cross, Vice President of Client Partnerships, discusses the implications of the phrase 'it's fine for now' with Business Development Manager, Will Elffers. You’ll hear Will talk about the risks and hidden costs associated with temporary IT solutions, particularly in areas like cybersecurity and AI readiness. The conversation highlights the importance of a holistic approach to security, including employee education and proactive planning, and addresses common reasons leaders default to temporary fixes. Listeners are encouraged to rethink their approach to IT and consider more sustainable strategies.
Dec 4, 2025 · 13 min
Looking Forward: New Year New IT Resolutions for 2026
In this episode of What The Tech, Becky Cross, Vice President of Client Partnerships at FIT, talks through top IT resolutions for 2026 with Jason Collins, Chief Information Security Officer, and Fred Franks, Chief Strategy Officer. They discuss the importance of adopting new technologies like AI to improve efficiency and cybersecurity, the need for thorough planning before implementation, and strategies to manage the balance between innovation and risk. The conversation also covers how businesses can leverage crowd-sourcing from employees for better AI integration and the significance of enhancing existing tools to avoid the 'bright shiny object syndrome.' Tune in to learn practical insights and tips to set strong IT resolutions for the new year.
Nov 20, 2025 · 11 min
Reimagining Learning Through Technology
In this episode of What the Tech, FIT’s VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross, from FIT Technologies interviews Miro Hummer, the Chief Information Officer at Case Western Reserve University. Miro discusses his career journey and pivotal moments, particularly emphasizing the importance of the human element in technology. He elaborates on Case Western's innovative projects like the holographic anatomy program, AI initiatives, and the future landscape of technology in education. Miro offers invaluable advice for students and professionals in the tech field, highlighting the need for flexibility and continuous learning.
Nov 12, 2025 · 13 min
Educating Tomorrow: AI, Innovation, and the New Normal
In this episode of What The Tech, FIT’s VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross, sits down with Dr. Charles Dull, Dean of the School of Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering, and Computer Science at Cuyahoga Community College. Dr. Dull shares his insights on the future of higher education, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the lasting changes brought on by COVID-19. He also discusses the balance between innovation and academic quality, and introduces the Cyber AI Futures Institute aimed at addressing AI governance and ethics. Tune in to learn more about the evolving landscape of digital education and how businesses can get involved.
Oct 16, 2025 · 7 min
Securing the Unseen: Protecting What Matters Most
In this episode of What the Tech, Becky Cross, VP of Client Partnerships at FIT Technologies, discusses cybersecurity awareness with Chief Information and Security Officer Jason Collins. Jason talks about the most common risks organizations overlook, focusing on the importance of knowing and documenting your assets to better protect them. Listen in to learn practical tips for enhancing your organization's cybersecurity posture.
Oct 3, 2025 · 11 min
The Power of Customer Conversations
In this episode of What The Tech, FIT's VP of Client Partnerships, Becky Cross, welcomes Dana Allender, founder of Sun - We Grow You, to discuss building scalable revenue strategies for tech founders and small businesses. He also touches on how small to midsize businesses can prepare to leverage emerging technologies like AI and IoT, emphasizing the importance of focusing on opportunities over cost-cutting measures.
Sep 22, 2025 · 10 min
Risky Business: Cybersecurity Ecosystem Debriefing
In this episode of What the Tech, Becky Cross (VP of Client Partnerships) sits down with CSO, Fred Franks, to recap highlights from our recent Strategy Series live panel. This panel brought together tech leaders from across Northeast Ohio, including experts from Westfield Bank, Oswald Insurance, and Calfee , to discuss the evolving cybersecurity ecosystem. From risk management to AI-driven tools to legal and insurance implications, hear the biggest takeaways and insights from the event.
Sep 11, 2025 · 9 min
Building, Scaling, and Protecting with Tony Pietrocola
In this episode of What The Tech, FIT's VP of Client Partnerships Becky Cross welcomes Tony Petricola, President of AgileBlue and longtime Cleveland tech entrepreneur. From working on Apple’s translucent iMac launch to scaling startups and driving global growth, Tony shares the pivotal lessons that shaped his leadership and outlook. Plus, FIT Technologies is proud to announce our partnership with AgileBlue as our preferred AI-based SOC provider, bringing next-level threat detection and risk mitigation to our clients.

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