The Stramaglio Show

Evolved Thinking: Scaling OT with MSP | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 7

On this episode of The Stramaglio Show, Mike welcomes Rick Harber, a 30-year veteran of the MSP space and founder of Decision Digital, for a conversation that bridges two industries: managed services and office technology. Rick shares how his aerospace roots led to a lifelong tech career and offers candid insight on how OT dealers can profitably expand into IT, cybersecurity, and automation.
Rick draws sharp comparisons between print and voice transitions, explains why recurring revenue is essential, and breaks down what it really takes to build a sustainable MSP model. He also introduces Catapult, a practical training platform focused on business process, workflow, and automation, tailored for the OT channel. With clear-eyed advice and a forward-thinking mindset, Rick issues a challenge to the channel: stop leading with features, and start aligning tech with customer strategy.
 
00:00 Introducing Rick Harber, CEO of Decision Digital
03:17 IT and Copier World Evolution
07:05 COVID-19’s Impact on Print
12:39 Profitability in MSP Space
16:05 MSP vs. OT: Mindset Differences
20:14 Redefining ‘IT Firm’
26:27 Introducing Catapult Event
30:22 Strategic Customer Engagement
 
 
Catapult 2025 Tickets: https://decisiondigital.ticketspice.com/catapult-fall-2025
Use code "Summit2Success" at checkout for $75.00 discount.
 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

Built, Not Bought: The Path to Real Leadership | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 6

On this episode of The Stramaglio Show, Mike welcomes Melissa Confalone, President of Fraser Advanced Information Systems, for a powerhouse conversation on leadership, culture, and innovation. With 30 years at Fraser under her belt, Melissa shares her remarkable journey from would-be lawyer to industry trailblazer, revealing the mentorship, grit, and gut instincts that shaped her rise.Melissa opens up about the evolution of Fraser’s sales-driven DNA, their aggressive embrace of AI and automation, and how they're attracting next-gen talent by reinventing the copier business for a digital world. She and Mike dig into the real impact of culture, the responsibility of leadership, and what it means to build not just a business, but a movement. From fly-me-to-the-moon moments to hard-earned insights, this episode is packed with wisdom for the future of the industry. 
Chapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:06 Melissa’s Journey Begins03:01 Growth and Mentorship06:31 Celebrating 30 Years08:39 Attracting the Next Generation10:10 Embracing AI in Business12:36 The Future of the Industry15:04 Fraser’s IT Services Growth18:06 A Positive Outlook20:58 Building a Strong Company Culture23:29 The Nature of Leadership29:04 Advice for Young Professionals31:06 Looking Ahead
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

From Culture to Community: How Datamax Built a Legacy | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 5

On this episode of The Stramaglio Show, Mike welcomes Barry Simon, President of Datamax Inc., for a conversation that blends strategic growth with heartfelt leadership. Barry traces his path from IBM to building Datamax into a thriving business deeply rooted in community, culture, and customer loyalty.With over four decades of experience, Barry shares the philosophies that shaped Datamax’s evolution, from goal setting and mentorship to embracing technological change and nurturing internal culture. He talks candidly about the power of partnerships, the difference between vendors and partners, and how Datamax turned charitable outreach into a strategic advantage. Datamax's approach proves that business success and doing good can go hand in hand.For anyone building a business—or a legacy—this episode offers a masterclass in leading with intention, adaptability, and heart.
00:18 Introduction to Barry Simon00:44 Barry’s Career Beginnings02:30 The Birth of Datamax04:06 Setting Goals and Achieving Success06:43 Community Engagement and Personal Growth09:13 Mentorship and Inspiration11:31 Looking Ahead: The Future of Datamax14:19 Commitment to Education and Community Support17:36 Advice for the Next Generation21:10 Learning from Younger Employees24:45 The Importance of Passion and Engagement25:03 The Patriot Pack Experience27:22 Evolving Company Culture30:06 Building Strong Partnerships32:07 Advice for Dealers in the Industry
Guest Links:Website: https://www.datamaxarkansas.com/Barry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-simon-5782034
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

From Office Tech to Managed IT: Novatech’s Strategic Path to Growth | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 4

On this episode of The Stramaglio Show, Mike Stramaglio sits down with Brandon Jarrett and Ted Becker to explore how Novatech drives a unified company culture across its office technology and managed IT services divisions. Brandon and Ted share how cross-team collaboration, shared training, and integrated talent development keep the organization focused on delivering holistic solutions.They discuss Novatech’s ambition to be a Total Solutions Provider (TSP), offering comprehensive technology services backed by top-tier customer support. Even amid market uncertainty, Novatech sees opportunity, expanding managed security services, embracing innovation, and cautiously advancing AI tools to improve internal operations and client service. Mike also draws out their advice for young professionals: challenge the status quo, embrace technology, and seize the industry’s rich career growth opportunities. Tune in for a great episode, and don't forget to like and subscribe!
00:00 Welcome to the Stramaglio Show01:00 Meet the Guests: Ted Becker and Brandon Jarrett02:02 Insights from ConnectWise03:09 Navigating Business Integration05:10 Finding Quality Talent09:21 Novatech’s Brand and Culture15:05 The Future of IT Services16:40 AI in the Workplace19:01 Personal Journeys and Mentorship24:00 Advice for Young Professionals27:05 Key Qualities in New Recruits28:45 A Touch of Sinatra
Guest Links:Website: https://novatech.net/Ted's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedbecker/Brandon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonjarrett/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

Printing, Philanthropy, and Podcasts with Andy Slawetsky | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 3

This week on The Stramaglio Show, Mike sits down with Andy Slawetsky, President and Owner of Industry Analysts, Inc. and host of the What’s Happenin’ Technology Podcast. Andy shares his journey from selling copiers to building a leading media company in the office tech space, transforming his father’s research firm into a go-to source for industry news.
They dive into hot topics like the booming potential of production print, the evolving role of AI in customer service and analytics, and the challenges posed by an unpredictable economy. Andy also highlights the industry's deep-rooted philanthropic spirit Plus, he offers invaluable advice for young pros: learn to sell, stay competitive, and the money will follow. Tune in for a fun episode!
00:00 Welcome to the Stramaglio Show01:01 From Copiers to Industry Leadership03:11 The Evolution of a Research Company06:43 The Growth of SLA3 and Family Ties08:51 The Patriot Pack Ride Experience11:01 Insights from Industry Interviews12:43 Future Trends in the Office Equipment Industry18:01 Philanthropy in the Industry22:41 Mentorship and Personal Growth28:37 The Ambitious Youth31:02 The Wild West of Sales33:15 Nostalgia and Regret34:04 AI and the Future of Technology38:25 Navigating Uncertainty41:06 Resilience in the Industry
 
Guest Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-slawetsky/
Business Website: https://www.industryanalysts.com/
 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

Flipping the Mic: Frank Cucco Interviews Mike Stramaglio | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 2

On this episode of The Stramaglio Show, Frank Cucco — Chairman of the Board at Impact Networking — flips the mic and takes over hosting duties, putting Mike Stramaglio in the guest seat for a powerful, personal conversation between two longtime friends and industry leaders.With their shared Italian heritage and decades of experience, Frank and Mike explore the future of the office technology industry through a lens of legacy, leadership, and innovation. Mike shares his unlikely entry into the business, the critical need for embracing AI and data, and why empowering younger, tech-savvy talent is non-negotiable. From succession planning to shifting workplace values, Mike challenges today’s leaders to stay curious, act with urgency, and build a culture that can carry the industry forward. It’s a candid and energizing exchange rooted in mutual respect—and a few good laughs along the way.
00:00 Introduction to the Stramaglio Show01:34 Mike’s Journey into Office Technology03:49 Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry06:17 Evolving Leadership in Technology-Driven Organizations09:19 Proudest Accomplishments and Lessons Learned11:08 Balancing Traditional Solutions with Digital Transformation14:46 Fostering Innovation in the Industry17:32 Addressing Industry Fears and Urgency19:58 Understanding AI and Its Impact22:15 Qualities for Success in a Changing Landscape25:33 Personal Values and Business Decisions27:00 The Influence of Mentorship28:19 Staying Motivated in a Long Career
 
Guest Links:Impact Networking: https://www.impactmybiz.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-cucco-55aa103/
 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

The Future of Hiring: Breaking the Status Quo w/ Mike Sarraille | The Stramaglio Show | Episode 1

Welcome to The Stramaglio Show! Formerly Next Weeks Life, this is the same podcast you know and love —just with a fresh new name. In this debut episode, Mike Stramaglio sits down with former Navy SEAL and Chief Talent Officer at Overwatch Mission Critical, Mike Sarraille, for a deep dive into leadership, talent acquisition, and the booming data center industry.
Mike shares his concept of “Evolved Leadership,” which pairs empathy with high standards. He challenges traditional hiring practices, advocating for new talent pools—especially as AI fuels a skyrocketing demand for skilled labor. The conversation also tackles the critical role of nuclear power in sustaining data infrastructure and how technology is now at the heart of national security. Whether you're a business leader, veteran, or tech enthusiast, this episode delivers insights you can’t afford to miss.
00:00 Welcome to the Stramaglio Show01:06 Meet Mike Sarraille03:35 The Talent War and Leadership Development05:13 The Love Factor in Leadership09:04 Resilience and Character in SEAL Training14:00 Translating Military Skills to Business19:07 Leadership Development Lessons from the Military23:07 The Growing Data Center Industry28:00 The Nuclear Future: Small Modular Reactors30:00 AI and National Security: A Race Against Time33:00 The Dual Purpose of Technology35:00 Preparing for the Future Workforce38:00 Reflections from the Executive Connection Summit39:30 A Musical Connection: Frank Sinatra
 
Guest Links:
Overwatch: https://weareoverwatch.com/
Personal Website: https://mikesarraille.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr.sarraille/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelsarraille/
 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheStramaglioShowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestramaglioshow/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-stramaglio-show/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow

50: Scoring Big in Sales w/ Rick Lambert

In this episode of Next Week's Life, Mike sits down with Rick Lambert, a former professional hockey player, who shares his journey from sports to a thriving sales career. After playing in the NHL and being drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, Lambert transitioned to sales, applying skills like teamwork and resilience to grow a Xerox dealership from $10 million to $30 million. Frustrated with traditional sales training, he founded Sell2Win, focusing on understanding the buyer's perspective.
Lambert discusses his work with in2Communications, highlighting the shift to digital marketing and inbound strategies. He advocates for aligning sales enablement with marketing to create consistent, customer-focused experiences. With a focus on innovation, AI, and data, Lambert emphasizes the importance of adapting strategies while staying true to core values. He also shares his approach to leadership, including daily team huddles and fostering transparency.
Lambert’s success is rooted in continuous learning, strategic partnerships, and his commitment to nurturing talent, training over 50,000 individuals in 26 years. He and Mike share a great conversation, so make sure to tune in, like, and subscribe!
Chapters00:00 Welcome and Holiday Greetings01:20 Rick’s Journey in Hockey04:39 Transitioning to Sales07:40 Founding Sell2Win10:42 The Evolution of Sales and Marketing16:01 Advice for American Dealers in 202521:00 Understanding Diverse Dealer Needs26:02 The Impact of Coaching and Mentorship31:18 Celebrating Success Stories
 
Guest Links:
https://in2communications.com/
https://selltowin.com/ecademy.php
 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Show LinksLearn more about Stramaglio Consulting: https://stramaglioconsulting.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NextweekslifepodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextweekslifepodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-week’s-life-podcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEMWp0DB0L9yrKSQhhNniow