Command Control Power: Apple Tech Support & Business Talk

Jerry Zigmont
Command Control Power: Apple Tech Support & Business Talk

Sam, Jerry, and Joe discuss their thoughts and draw from their combined experience of over 20 years in the Apple Consultants Network (ACN).

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Joe Taps Out, Jerry and Sam Command-Control-Power Through

    Joe Taps Out, Jerry and Sam Command Control Power Through   In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts navigate through a mix of tech support comedy and genuine tips. Starting off with playful banter, they discuss personal anecdotes about parenting moments and work-life balance, leading to shout-outs for their Patreon supporters. They emphasize the importance of maintaining good relationships within the tech community and share experiences of dealing with challenging clients. Highlights include a disastrous printer ink spill at a friend's house during a firmware update, a complex data migration issue resolved with Carbon Copy Cloner, and amusing stories involving kids and tech. They wrap up with a light-hearted discussion on recent TV shows and personal achievements, setting the stage for their upcoming holiday message.   00:00 Introduction and Showbiz Banter 01:43 Patreon Shoutouts and Community Support 03:30 Consultancy Collaboration and Client Stories 06:56 Tech Purchases and Personal Updates 09:00 Mac Mini and Home Automation 16:10 Migration Assistant Troubles 27:47 Printer Password Predicament 28:34 Ink Spill Disaster 29:27 Cleaning Up the Mess 32:57 Firmware Update Success 36:03 Tech Troubles and Solutions 49:23 TV Show Recommendations

    56 min

  2. DEC 17

    Caught in the Cloud: Backup Battles and Cyber Scams

    In this episode of Command Control Power, the hosts delve into various technical and customer service issues they have encountered recently. They start with a detailed rant about Backblaze’s abrupt change in their prorated refund policy, which affected the way they manage client licenses. The conversation shifts to issues with Amazon's high-value electronics return policy, and Sam shares a frustrating story about dealing with a delayed and ultimately lost iPhone shipment. Joe recounts a complicated man-in-the-middle scam involving Microsoft 365 and Dropbox, highlighting the challenges of protecting clients from evolving security threats. The episode ends with a discussion about Apple Business Connect and their stringent logo approval process, and a short review of the action-packed movie 'The Beekeeper'.   00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:08 Customer Support Rant: Backblaze Experience 01:26 Policy Changes and Their Impact 03:34 Challenges with Backblaze Services 12:09 Affiliate Program Issues 16:21 Amazon Return Policy Frustrations 21:26 iPhone Delivery Nightmare 27:37 AppleCare Plus Trade-In Saga 30:11 AI Response and Trade-In Deals 31:12 Apple Business Connect Webinar 33:10 Logo Upload Struggles 37:08 Verified Logo Program 41:24 Microsoft and Dropbox Scam 48:51 Scam Prevention and Security Measures 01:00:13 Scams from Nigeria and India 01:02:04 Conclusion and Movie Recommendation

    1h 6m

  3. DEC 10

    Best Of CCP - Give Your Dough To The Baker

    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.

    53 min

  4. DEC 3

    Unraveling UniFi: From Overseas Travels to Technical Troubles

    In this episode of Command Control Power, the team delves into recent UniFi updates, touches on managing Sonos integrations, and shares on-the-ground troubleshooting experiences. Sam talks about his recent trip to China and Japan, where he experienced both work-related and leisure activities, stunning cityscapes, and unique cultural experiences. Dive into practical solutions for UniFi network setup, Wi-Fi optimization tips, and an intriguing look into Sam's efforts to manage a large-scale UniFi and Sonos deployment. They also explore unusual issues with mounting plates, power problems, and tips for effectively handling network gear. Join the conversation for an informative blend of tech insights and travel stories.

    56 min

  5. NOV 26

    Navigating Apple's Changing Ecosystem and the Future of Tech Support

    In this episode of Command Control Power, Joe and Jerry discuss a range of topics related to recent changes in iOS, macOS, and Apple's overall ecosystem. They delve into the complexities introduced by incremental and major updates, particularly iOS 18 and Ventura, and how these updates impact their work with clients. They also explore the practicality of using features like cognitive accessibility, magic links for password replacement, and passkeys. Both share experiences with frustrating tech issues, such as incorrect autocorrections and overly complicated return policies for electronics. They reflect on how rising expectations from both users and shareholders drive the incessant introduction of new features and how this affects daily usage and tech support.   Introduction and Catching Up   Navigating iOS Changes Frustrations with Technology Updates Tech Tips and Tricks   Accessibility Features for Elderly Users Amazon Return Policy Changes Addigy and Migration Assistant Tips MagSafe Charging Challenges iCloud Backup vs Direct Transfer Cable Transfer Realities App Reinstallation Annoyances Authenticator Apps and Two-Factor Authentication Password Management Woes Magic Links vs Passwords Passkeys and Password Managers Apple's AI and Typing Frustrations Closing Thoughts and Client Engagement

    58 min

  6. NOV 19

    Navigating IT's Past and Future with Tim Nyberg of The MacGuys+

    A Journey Through Mac Support with Tim Nyberg In this episode of Command Control Power, hosts welcome Tim Nyberg of The Mac Guys + as he shares his extensive journey in Mac support, starting back in the early 90s. Tim recounts his early fascination with technology, from overclocking a Commodore 64 to managing the first round of Macintosh computers at his college newspaper. He provides insights into the evolution of Mac operating systems and the challenges of adapting to new technologies over decades. Tim also discusses the benefits and intricacies of running a remote support business, the importance of client engagement, and efficient business operations. The conversation explores tools like Addigy, RepairShopper, and Watchman Monitoring, touching on security practices and the need for comprehensive and affordable security audits for clients. The episode offers valuable lessons on adapting to technological changes, maintaining client relationships, and optimizing remote IT support.   Introduction and Welcome   Tim's Early Tech Adventures College Days and Early Mac Experiences Evolution of Design Software SCSI Troubles and Early Mac Troubleshooting Transition to OS X Staying Current in Tech Remote Work and Tools   Client Engagement Strategies Streamlining Remote Work The Pros and Cons of Repair Shopper Exploring Alternatives to Repair Shopper The Value of Community in Tech Tools Balancing Business and Lifestyle   Security Audits and Tools Reflections on the Tech Industry Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

    57 min

  7. NOV 12

    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.

    47 min

  8. NOV 5

    Optimizing MSP Operations with Tim Pearson of Creative Techs

    In this comprehensive episode of Command Control Power, hosts Joe, Jerry and Sam engage with Tim Pearson of Creative Techs, covering a wide spectrum of Managed Service Provider (MSP) operations and beyond. Key topics include the integration and optimization of MDM and RMM tools, the benefits of automation in ticketing and backup management, and the importance of tracking and reporting activities to showcase value to clients. The conversation also highlights the significance of community wisdom and peer-led problem-solving at ACEs events, the practical advantages of standardized tools and knowledge sharing, and the challenges faced in a fragmented MSP vendor landscape. Additionally, the episode touches on the complexities specific to Apple Consultants, such as managing community resources, negotiating vendor terms, and establishing industry pricing standards. A unique segment dives into the personal rituals and nostalgic value of music listening on vinyl records, sprinkling personal anecdotes and enduring record recommendations. This episode provides a well-rounded discussion blending technical insights with personal experiences, aiming to enhance MSP operations while celebrating the joys of music and community engagement.     00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:08 Catching Up and ACEs Conference 00:44 Tim's Background and Guitars 01:23 ACEs After Dark and Business Discussions 01:55 MDM and RMM Tricks 03:55 Integrations and Automation 10:05 Backup Solutions and Challenges 12:59 Community and Collaboration 18:05 Vendor Landscape and Tools 25:48 Community Contributions and Generosity 26:23 Challenges of Sharing Tools and Resources 28:16 Economic Impact and Business Models 30:19 Masterclass and Training Ideas 35:00 Collective Bargaining and Vendor Relations 39:56 Music and Nostalgia 47:18 Conclusion and Farewell

    52 min
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4.7
out of 5
57 Ratings

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Sam, Jerry, and Joe discuss their thoughts and draw from their combined experience of over 20 years in the Apple Consultants Network (ACN).

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