Summary

In this engaging conversation, Tara Rummer shares her journey from a non-technical background to becoming a key player in the MSP and SaaS industries. The discussion covers her experiences with EmmyBot, the importance of community in business, and the evolving definition of success in IT careers. Tara emphasizes the need for adaptability in the fast-paced tech world and the value of building genuine relationships within the community. In this engaging conversation, Tara Rummer, Abhi Saini, and Ben Climer explore the dynamics of leadership in the MSP space, the importance of community, and the challenges of navigating workplace communication. They discuss the significance of technical knowledge versus business acumen, the necessity of training and development for employees, and the value of conferences for networking and learning. The conversation also touches on the evolution of new products in the industry and the personal experiences of the speakers, including their thoughts on public speaking and community engagement.

Takeaways

Tara’s journey into IT began unexpectedly through her connection with an MSP.
Success in IT is a moving target, varying from person to person.
Community-led growth is essential for building lasting relationships in business.
Adaptability is crucial in the ever-changing landscape of technology.
Tara emphasizes the importance of feedback and learning from others.
Building a supportive community can lead to better business outcomes.
Tara’s background in art history has contributed to her critical thinking skills.
The transition from MSP to SaaS requires a different mindset and approach.
Tara’s experiences highlight the challenges of managing client expectations.
Creating a positive work environment is key to employee retention. Gossip can create unnecessary panic in the workplace.
Successful leaders often juggle multiple roles.
Technical knowledge is not always essential for leadership.
Internal testing can provide valuable feedback.
Generational differences affect technology understanding.
There is no silver bullet solution in business.
Role specialization is crucial as teams grow.
Investing in employee training pays off.
Conferences are vital for community building.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is a common challenge.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Office Setup
02:57 Jelly Cats and Personal Connections
06:04 Feedback and Product Development
08:45 Marketing and Design Insights
11:22 Adulting and Life Lessons
14:11 Defining Success in IT Careers
15:10 Defining Success: A Personal Journey
16:09 Early Exposure to Technology
18:48 From Art History to IT: An Unexpected Path
20:12 Navigating Career Changes and Opportunities
24:29 Building a Career in the MSP Space
27:58 The Importance of Continuous Learning in IT
31:25 Transitioning to Community Leadership
37:13 The Role of Community in Business Growth
42:02 Challenges in IT Management and Client Expectations
47:22 Taking Risks and Embracing Change
51:32 Understanding the Vendor Perspective
58:33 Training and Development in Tech
01:00:44 Building Community Through Conferences
01:07:18 The Importance of Shared Experiences
01:19:36 Embracing Naivety in Technology
01:22:58 The Rise of New Products in the MSP Space
01:24:27 Imposter Syndrome and Humility in Success
01:27:10 Late Night Conversations and Personal Insights
01:29:33 Nostalgia and Collecting in the Modern Age
01:34:07 Connecting with the Community and Final Thoughts