In this episode of the All Things MSP podcast, hosts Justin Esgar and Eric Anthony dive into one of the most critical topics facing managed service providers today: practical AI adoption for MSPs and their SMB clients. Recorded live on-site at GTIA ChannelCon in San Diego, Eric sits down with two leading MSP business owners, Ann Westerheim of Ekaru and Jeremy Treister of CMIT Solutions of Chicago, to explore how real-world IT service providers are implementing artificial intelligence internally to boost operational efficiency while safely guiding micro-SMB and Main Street clients through AI governance, security, and technology enablement.
Ann Westerheim discusses how Ekaru uses AI tools and automation to handle complex distributor billing reconciliations and license management with custom internal workflows. She also shares effective strategies for helping non-technical Main Street businesses embrace AI productivity without compromising sensitive corporate data. Jeremy Treister shares how CMIT Solutions of Chicago approaches AI enablement through structured governance, acceptable use policies, and practical frameworks designed to combat shadow AI risks while helping small business clients maintain a strong competitive edge in their local markets. Together, they outline actionable strategies for MSPs to transition from simple software license reselling into high-value strategic AI advisors for their clients.
Whether you are looking to streamline your internal MSP operations or establish safe AI guardrails for your small business customers, this episode provides essential insights for navigating the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence landscape.
Special thanks to our premier sponsors for supporting the All Things MSP community and making this show possible: Blumira, Choice Cyber Solutions, Compliance Scorecard, EasyDMARC, Gozynta, Material Security, and Sync365. Learn more about our valued sponsors and explore their IT security and automation solutions at https://allthingsmsp.com/sponsors.
Connect with Our Guest Experts:
Ann Westerheim (Ekaru) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annwesterheim/ Website: https://www.ekaru.com
Ann Westerheim (Ekaru) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annwesterheim/ Website: https://www.ekaru.com
Jeremy Treister (CMIT Solutions of Chicago) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtreister/ Website: https://www.cmitsolutions.com
Connect with Our Podcast Hosts:
Justin Esgar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinesgar/
Eric Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esanthony/
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