Stop Paying for Tech You Don’t Need with Katerina Ford | Episode 19

In this episode of the Business Origin Story podcast, Drew Mitchell sits down with Katerina Ford, co-owner of MAD Technical Solutions. Katerina shares her path from serving in the U.S. Army to taking over her family’s IT business, offering essential insights into how small and mid-sized businesses can cut wasted technology costs, automate mundane processes, and align IT with real business goals.

A Legacy in Tech and Business IT Consulting

Technology runs deep in Katerina's background—her mother was a systems administrator, her father was a network engineer, and she was already fixing school library computers as a grade-schooler. After returning home from the Army, Katerina managed an MSP in Florida before taking over MAD Technical Solutions in 2018. Today, MAD Technical Solutions specializes in business IT consulting, custom software development, web design, and cybersecurity compliance for growing companies.

Cutting Unnecessary Tech Stack Costs

Katerina points out that many business owners waste money on overlapping software subscriptions simply because they see others using them. For example, companies often pay for third-party scheduling tools like Calendly when their existing Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, or CRM packages already include identical features. By conducting holistic technology audits, Katerina helps owners eliminate redundant tools, streamline communications, and turn technology into an active revenue driver rather than a "necessary evil."

Streamlining Operations with Process Automation

A primary focus at MAD Technical Solutions is business process automation. Katerina helps companies identify repeatable, time-consuming tasks—such as logging missed calls, tracking lead follow-ups, or deploying website updates—and builds automated systems to handle them. By eliminating static logic tasks, business owners regain dozens of hours each month to focus on strategy, client relationships, and team growth.

Lessons in Resilience & Strategic Growth

Reflecting on navigating major industry disruptions—from COVID-19 remote transitions to the Change Healthcare cyberattack—Katerina emphasizes the importance of measured, intentional growth. Her core advice for entrepreneurs is to "walk before you run," set realistic expectations, delegate technical needs to true experts, and ensure that every technology decision directly serves a clear business goal.

Final Thoughts

Katerina Ford demonstrates that smart technology management isn't about buying the newest gadgets; it's about making your systems work efficiently for your human team.

If you enjoyed learning about Katerina's approach to business IT and want to hear more inspiring business stories, subscribe to my YouTube channel @ArcturusVideo for more content like this. Let's inspire and support each other on our entrepreneurial paths. Stay tuned for more insights, stories, and valuable tips!