Bridging the IT Channel: Building Community, Scaling Marketplaces, and Harnessing AI for Growth

The Innovators & Investors Podcast

In this episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Kevin Lancaster, founder and CEO of Channel Program, to explore the challenges and opportunities within the fragmented IT channel marketplace.

Kevin shares his entrepreneurial journey from founding a government contracting firm to building and exiting a cybersecurity company, ID Agent, highlighting key lessons learned along the way.

The discussion delves into how Channel Program evolved into a two-sided marketplace that connects managed service providers with emerging technology vendors, emphasizing the importance of community-building and continuous customer feedback in shaping their platform.

Kevin also offers a candid look at hiring practices, company culture, and the critical role of deliberate team-building. The conversation shifts to the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on product development, operations, and market dynamics, underscoring how AI accelerates innovation and shifts competitive advantages.

Finally, Kevin reflects on the personal resilience and adaptability required to succeed as a serial entrepreneur, giving listeners valuable perspectives on reinvention, confidence, and the power of supportive partnerships. For those interested in the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and channel strategy, this episode provides a comprehensive view of navigating growth and disruption in a complex industry landscape.

Learn more about Channel Program work at: https://channelprogram.com/

Connect with GUEST on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinlancaster/

Think you'd be a great guest on the show?

Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/

Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work?

Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com