Joe Goldstein Bet on Himself and Won

Success in business often comes down to one thing: believing in yourself. Joe Goldstein, founder of Optimized Computer Solutions and co-author of Tech Up or Lose Out, did just that. When a corporate career setback left him unemployed in the midst of the 2008 financial crisis, he didn’t wait for another opportunity, he created one. His journey from uncertainty to industry leadership is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and smart decision-making.

Joe Goldstein, turned a career setback into a thriving business. With over 30 years of IT experience and deep expertise in healthcare IT and HIPAA compliance, Joe built his MSP from the ground up, transforming it into a specialized, high-performing business. His path wasn’t linear... after working as a CIO for a Fortune 500 consulting firm, he found himself unexpectedly unemployed during the 2008 economic downturn. Instead of seeking another corporate role, he embraced entrepreneurship, proving that taking risks and betting on yourself can lead to extraordinary success.

Joe’s passion for technology began early, fueled by hands-on experiences with early computers and self-taught programming skills. Initially dismissed as a hobby, his technical aptitude evolved into a career in IT leadership. However, corporate limitations and a shifting economy forced him to rethink his trajectory. Faced with economic uncertainty and a young family to support, Joe took an unconventional route. He explored alternative income streams, including reselling bicycles, before fully committing to launching Optimized Computer Solutions. Like many early MSPs, he started with home PC repairs but quickly landed his first business client, an opportunity that required him to learn Citrix on the fly. His ability to adapt and take on new challenges proved invaluable as his business grew.

A defining moment in his business journey came when he was offered a contract with a hospital system in New Jersey. The position required relocation, but Joe recognized the opportunity and took the leap. This decision led to further contracts, culminating in a pivotal engagement with an ENT practice that resulted in a significant IT overhaul and cost savings of over a million dollars. He established himself in the healthcare IT sector by demonstrating expertise and delivering results. Over time, his MSP evolved into a specialized provider for otolaryngology practices, with 90% of revenue now coming from that niche.

Focusing on a specific industry allowed Joe to position his business as a trusted expert. Specialization provided a competitive edge, enabling him to deeply understand client pain points, build credibility, and streamline service offerings. For MSPs struggling to differentiate themselves, his experience highlights the benefits of developing a clear niche and committing to industry expertise.

Lessons from the Journey

• Bet on Yourself – Confidence in your ability to learn and adapt is crucial. Taking on challenges, even those outside your expertise, opens doors to new opportunities.
• Document Everything – As a business grows, knowledge must be shared. Strong documentation prevents bottlenecks and enables scalability.
• Find Your Niche – Specializing in a particular industry allows for better marketing, stronger relationships, and increased credibility.
• Invest in Learning – IT is constantly evolving. The most successful professionals seek knowledge proactively rather than waiting for training opportunities.
• Build for the Future – The ultimate goal of business growth is freedom. A sustainable, well-structured company allows for a balanced lifestyle and long-term success.

Joe’s journey illustrates the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. His ability to adapt, specialize, and push forward through uncertainty has led to long-term success. For MSPs looking to scale, the key is continuous learning, strategic positioning, and a commitment to long-term goals.

If Joe’s story resonated with you, subscribe to the MSP Growth Podcast for more insights from industry leaders. To accelerate your MSP’s growth, explore the Gozynta Growth Program, designed to help MSPs refine strategy, streamline operations, and drive sustainable business success.