ITBODD (IT Business Owner Didn't Die) is where IT business owners who’ve faced the hard knocks of the industry share what it takes not only to survive but to thrive. Hosted by Allen Edwards, each episode dives deep into the experiences of those who've navigated unique challenges, transforming obstacles into valuable lessons. In our first episode, we sit down with Stan Kats of STGIT, who went from break-fix shop owner to MSP builder, tackling every hurdle in between. Join us as Stan shares his story of reinvention, resilience, and the determination it takes to build a business that lasts.

Listen to the full episode below:

Surviving and Thriving: How Stan Kats Built an MSP from Scratch

When Stan Kats left corporate IT after years in Fortune 500 companies, he didn’t set out to build an MSP. He wanted to serve everyday people, solving their tech problems one device at a time, which led him to open Stan’s Tech Garage, a break-fix shop in L.A. But like many stories worth telling, Stan’s journey took some surprising turns.

Transitioning to managed services wasn’t in his initial plan, but he saw the writing on the wall. The break-fix model wasn’t scalable, and MSPs were catching on in the industry, making steady income from proactive support rather than one-off repairs. So Stan took the plunge into managed services, rebranding his business as STGIT for a more professional edge and a clearer focus on small to medium businesses. But he didn’t just “shut down” the break-fix side—he ran both businesses in parallel, keeping one foot in the familiar while tackling the challenges of growing an MSP from scratch.

A DIY Rebrand with Real Stakes

Rebranding wasn’t as simple as swapping out a sign. Stan had to build up his SEO, client base, and reputation from scratch—essentially starting a new business on the side of his existing one. He worked tirelessly, balancing both sides of his operation, even as he expanded to a second location across L.A. This decision quickly tested his limits, though; the reality of managing multiple stores while scaling a service-oriented business took a physical and mental toll.

Yet he persisted. It wasn’t glamorous, and at times, the scale of his ambition felt overwhelming. But Stan had a plan—and he stuck with it.

Choosing the Right Tech Stack… Without Losing Your Sanity

Any MSP owner will tell you: picking the right tech stack can feel like a full-time job. Stan tried multiple tools, knowing there was no perfect fit, and he focused instead on learning his tools well enough to make them work. His perspective now? Don’t let tool choices become a distraction. “No client cares about your RMM or PSA—they just want their issues solved,” Stan says. It’s a reminder that for MSPs, the tools you choose should serve your goals, not slow you down. (Check out Gozynta Eureka’s Consulting Services if you need guidance with tool selection and strategy.)

Mastering the Art of Content (Even When the Camera Isn’t Your Friend)

Then came a new experiment: YouTube. Inspired by the impact video could have for his business, Stan ventured into content creation, investing in a setup that he nearly scrapped after the first try. A little guidance from a friend and several retakes later, he’s now running a YouTube channel for STGIT, tackling topics from cybersecurity to industry insights. His videos may not go viral, but they add real value for his audience. For Stan, it’s about staying consistent and finding ways to connect with clients beyond day-to-day service.

Growth Isn’t Easy, But It’s Worth It

Stan is still figuring out some pieces—like refining his sales strategy. But his resilience has kept him on track. From hiring marketing agencies to taking on networking events, he’s constantly evolving his approach to fill capacity and grow revenue, knowing that incremental progress is what fuels long-term success.

Take Charge of Growth: Gozynta’s Growth Program for IT Business Owners

If you’re an IT business owner who’s feeling the same pressures of growth and scaling, Gozynta’s Growth Program is built for you. With strategic support and tools to meet the unique challenges of the industry, our team is here to help you reach your business’s potential.

Looking to share your story on ITBODD? Reach out! We are always looking for guests who bring insights and stories of resilience.