What happens when a former dinosaur-hunting integrator turns higher ed AV hero? In this episode, Ryan reconnects with Jon Hamilton — a man whose AV origin story begins in the ’80s and who now serves as a trusted fixture in the higher ed AV landscape.

From aggressive integrator days to nurturing secret-service-style classroom support, Jon shares hard-won insights, hilarious metaphors, and a grounded philosophy on service, leadership, and staying calm when tech — or people — break down.

• Jon’s AV career evolution from thermal fax machines to Emory Med
• The “giver” mindset and being proud of being the solid guy
• Why working in AV is fundamentally a service industry
• The Secret Service metaphor: take the bullet, get no credit
• Keeping the ducks and bunnies alive (you’ll just have to listen)
• On callings, middle school teachers, and the discomfort of real compassion
• Advice for newcomers: don’t panic — and know enough to call BS
• Why calm wins: from Kennedy to control rooms
• Subject matter expertise vs. impostor syndrome

Connect with Jon:
📧 [email protected]
🔗 Jon Hamilton on LinkedIn

Connect with Ryan:
https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Gray
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
📧 [email protected]

Follow the Show:
🎧 http://higheredav.com/ryangray


Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:
https://twitter.com/cdechter
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdechter/

Please rate and review the show wherever you get your podcasts. Feedback is always welcome — and we look forward to hearing from you!