AV/IT Amplifier

In today's conversation, Ryan Gray interviews Lisle Waldron, the multimedia and audio visual services manager for the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Lyle shares his journey into the AV field, discussing the challenges and cultural expectations he faces in higher education. He reflects on the importance of representation in the AV industry and the unique challenges of working in a Caribbean context. The discussion highlights Lisle's passion for service, his commitment to education, and his aspirations for the future.

Keywords
AV, multimedia, higher education, technology, Caribbean, audio visual services, education technology, university

Notes

• Lisle Waldron is the multimedia and audio visual services manager for the University of Trinidad and Tobago.
• He always wanted to be a pilot, showcasing his early aspirations.
• Lisle identifies as a high-functioning autistic person, which influences his communication style.
• He emphasizes the importance of service in higher education AV support.
• He believes that AV professionals don't take defeat well and are always looking for solutions.
• Cultural expectations often lead to misconceptions about technology capabilities in the Caribbean.
• Lisle's budget for AV services is significantly lower than that of U.S. institutions, impacting his work.
• He feels a strong sense of responsibility, as he serves an entire country's educational needs.
• Lisle is proud of his contributions to the AV field and aims to continue making an impact.

Connect with Lisle: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lislew/
[email protected]
868.683.2442

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

We're back for week 2 with Dr. Lisa Rhine, the president of Yavapai College.  She discusses topics such as leadership, performance evaluation, introversion vs extroversion, gratitude, and the importance of meeting students' basic needs. She emphasizes the need for educators to support the whole person and provide second chances. Dr. Rhine also shares personal anecdotes about her first job, her favorite sandwich, and her belief in the inherent goodness of people.



Keywords
leadership, performance evaluation, introversion, extroversion, gratitude, basic needs, second chances

Takeaways

• Leadership should be focused on personal growth and development, rather than just performance evaluation tied to financial rewards.
• Understanding and meeting students' basic needs is crucial for their success in education.
• Introverts and extroverts have different strengths and challenges, and it's important to have a balance of both in leadership roles.
• Practicing gratitude and starting each day with a sense of gratitude can have a positive impact on one's mindset and approach to life.
• Everyone deserves second chances and the opportunity for redemption.
• Comparison is the thief of joy, and it's important to be kind to oneself and forgive mistakes.

Sound Bites

• "Performance evaluation should be developmental, focusing on personal growth rather than financial rewards."
• "The role of a college president requires an extroverted personality, but introverts can also succeed in the position with coping mechanisms."
• "Starting the day with a sense of gratitude sets the day off in the right direction."

Connect with Dr. Rhine:
www.yc.edu
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-rhine-2959a926/

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

This week Ryan welcomes his own President! Dr. Lisa Rhine, President of Yavapai College, discusses the challenges and rewards of being a college president and the importance of technology in higher education. She emphasizes the need for college leaders to stay on the cutting edge of technology and create a culture of innovation and risk-taking. Dr. Rhine also highlights the role of technology professionals in driving change and improving the student experience. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the Center for Learning and Innovation at Yavapai College and the importance of creating student-centric spaces. Keywords college president, technology, higher education, innovation, risk-taking, student-centric, Center for Learning and Innovation 

Takeaways
-Being a college president requires a strong moral compass, thick skin, and the ability to hold oneself to a higher standard.
-Technology is constantly evolving and college leaders must stay on the cutting edge to provide the best learning experience for students.
-Creating a culture of innovation and risk-taking is essential for colleges to adapt to changing technology and student needs.
-Technology professionals play a crucial role in driving change and improving the student experience.
-The Center for Learning and Innovation at Yavapai College is a student-centric space that embraces technology and fosters creativity and collaboration.

Sound Bites
"You have to hold yourself to a higher standard in terms of your behavior and your interaction."
"We know technology is going to profoundly change what we do. We just don't know how."
"You work for the students here. So let's talk it through from that angle."

Connect with Dr. Rhine:
www.yc.edu
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-rhine-2959a926/

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

We're back for week 2 with Jordan Scales, live from the Arizona Audio Video expo.  We chat with Jordan about his role as an education liaison and his thoughts on various topics. We discuss the upcoming release of the new DMPS, the challenges of the supply chain crisis, and the importance of having good energy in relationships. Jordan shares his perspective on introversion, the impact of COVID-19 on his job, and his changing views on religion. He also reveals his favorite sandwich and his contact information for those interested in reaching out to him.



Keywords Crestron, education, DMPs, supply chain crisis, energy, introversion, COVID-19, religion, sandwich

Takeaways

• The new DMPs release is highly anticipated, but there is still uncertainty about its launch date.
• The supply chain crisis has affected the availability of products, but Crestron is working to improve the situation.
• Having good energy is important in building relationships and can be a source of inspiration and motivation.
• Jordan identifies as an introvert and finds solace in tinkering and working on projects alone.
• The COVID-19 pandemic was a challenging time, but having family around provided some comfort.
• Jordan believes that people are generally good but can be influenced by their environment and past experiences.
• He has recently started exploring religion again and has a newfound interest in the concept of Jesus.
• Jordan's favorite sandwich is a monster sandwich with ham, turkey, roast beef, banana peppers, and various condiments.
• He can be contacted through LinkedIn or by email at [email protected].
• Jordan's sign-off phrase is 'Keep putting good energy out in the world.'

Sound Bites

• "You said Ally, which I like, so are you now considering changing the A plus branding to Education Ally program?"
• "Yeah, I just always have been. I know I'm funny and I'm good at like having a good time, but my natural style isn't to want to be around people."
• "Yeah, it's awesome. So that brings up a little bit of that sort of day in and day out gratitude for things. Sometimes you have to have it taken away to understand it."

Connect with Jordan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanscales81/
[email protected]

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

Recorded live at the Arizona Audio Video Expo, we visit with Jordan Scales, an AV nerd and technologist who works for Crestron Electronics. They discuss the importance of building relationships in the AV industry, particularly in the education sector. Jordan emphasizes the need for trust, honesty, and genuine care for customers. They also talk about the role of a representative in being an ally to customers and helping them succeed. Jordan shares his approach to problem-solving and providing support, which has led to increased sales and customer satisfaction. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of training and connecting people in the industry.

Takeaways
Building relationships based on trust and genuine care is crucial in the AV industry, especially in the education sector.
Being an ally to customers and helping them succeed leads to increased sales and customer satisfaction.
Providing excellent customer support and problem-solving is essential for building strong relationships.
Training and connecting people in the industry are valuable ways to support and empower customers.

"I don't like salespeople. I like to make things work."
"Don't be full of shit. Be genuine."
"Connecting people is one of the most amazing parts about my job."

Connect with Jordan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanscales81/
[email protected]

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

In this installment of the Gray Matter Moment, Ryan discusses the concept of known unknowns and the importance of acknowledging and valuing the work that is not directly seen. He draws parallels to the concept of dark matter in the universe, where there is something causing gravity that cannot be seen but its effects can be observed. Ryan emphasizes the need for leaders and managers to recognize and appreciate the known unknowns, as it contributes to the success of the team and organization. He also highlights the negative consequences of not valuing the unseen work, such as creating a zero-sum environment and dehumanizing people.

Keywords
known unknowns, dark matter, unseen work, valuing effort, leadership, management

Takeaways

• Recognize and appreciate the work that is not directly seen or acknowledged.
• Hold space for the known unknowns and understand that there are things happening that may not be visible.
• Avoid creating a zero-sum environment where people have to compete for recognition.
• Value humility and celebrate the successes that happen behind the scenes.
• Leaders and managers play a crucial role in creating an environment that values and recognizes unseen work.

Sound Bites

• "We don't know what it is. Maybe it's not even matter. But we know that something is causing gravity that we can't see but we can see its effects."
• "Leaders can end up de-incentivizing those who are doing the great work that they end up taking for granted."

Chapters00:00 Introduction
04:06 Drawing Parallels to Dark Matter
06:28 The Importance of Valuing Unseen Work
10:22 Creating a Zero-Sum Environment
13:54 The Role of Leaders in Recognizing Unseen Work
19:47 Recognizing All Successes
23:17 The Limitations of Perception
26:11 Holding Known Unknowns
28:30 Conclusion

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

We're back with week 2 with Kameesha Jones, audio visual project manager and audio engineer. They discuss Kameesha's active presence on Twitter and her commitment to authenticity. Kameesha shares that she uses social media as a way to be her true self and connect with others. We also talk about Kameesha's introverted nature and how she has learned to navigate social situations. We touch on topics such as customer service, therapy, and the importance of reflection. The conversation ends with Kameesha sharing her favorite sandwich and her drop the mic sign-off phrase.

Keywords

Twitter, authenticity, introversion, social media, customer service, therapy, reflection, sandwich, drop the mic

Takeaways

• Authenticity is important on social media, and Kameesha strives to be her true self online.
• Kameesha is an introvert but has learned to navigate social situations and recharge when needed.
• Customer service skills are valuable in any job and can be learned through experience.
• Therapy can be beneficial for personal growth and addressing past traumas.
• Kameesha's favorite sandwich is a chicken tender sub from a local grocery store.
• Kameesha's drop the mic sign-off phrase is 'Always be authentic to yourself and be true to who you are.'

Sound Bites

• "If you're not authentic, then I'm not fake."
• "My life is like a movie. The craziest things happen to me sometimes."
• "I'm a good social media friend. I'm always catching up with people on social media."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:08 Introversion and Navigating Social Situations
06:07 Customer Service Skills
08:52 Therapy and Personal Growth
10:58 Favorite Sandwich and Birthday Plans
14:18 Good vs. Evil
18:37 Dealing with Obstacles
22:42 Reflecting on Life
26:20 The Perfect Sandwich
30:29 Drop the Mic Sign-Off


Connect with Kameesha:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kameesha-jones-b3490339/
https://x.com/Kay1117
https://www.commercialintegrator.com/news/commercial-integrator-40-influencers-under-40-class-of-2023/123186/

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

We're back in the remote studio with an interview of Kameesha Jones, an audiovisual project manager for Florida International University and an audio engineer for the Miami Heat. They discuss Kameesha's work with the Miami Heat, her role as an AV project manager, and her new position as the DEI chair for HETMA. Kameesha shares her experiences working in the AV industry, the challenges she faces, and her goals for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field. She emphasizes the importance of representation, creating safe spaces, and providing training and resources for DEI initiatives.

Keywords

audiovisual, project manager, Miami Heat, AV industry, DEI, diversity, equity, inclusion, representation, safe spaces, training, resources

Sound Bites
"Working with the Miami Heat is definitely fun, is rewarding. It's my fun job."
"We have to figure that out within 30 seconds with that problem going wrong."
"I want to elevate my skills so that when I do walk into a room and they're asking me questions about, have you ever renovated a ballroom or have you done that? Yes, I have."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:24 Challenges and Rewards of the AV Industry
08:11 Role as AV Project Manager
12:32 Taking on the DEI Chair Role
18:17 Representation and Recognition
26:08 Improving Diversity and Inclusion in the AV Industry
29:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Kameesha:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kameesha-jones-b3490339/
https://x.com/Kay1117
https://www.commercialintegrator.com/news/commercial-integrator-40-influencers-under-40-class-of-2023/123186/

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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

Recorded at InfoComm 2024, Ryan Gray interviews Justin Dawson, a tech influencer and advocate for autism awareness. They discuss Justin's journey from Ireland to Las Vegas, his role as a tech influencer, and his experiences as a parent of an autistic child. Justin also shares his travel recommendations for Las Vegas and highlights the importance of mental health awareness.

Takeaways

• Justin Dawson is a tech influencer and advocate for autism awareness.
• He shares his journey from Ireland to Las Vegas and the opportunities he has received as a tech influencer.
• Justin emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and encourages people to ask others how they are doing.
• He provides travel recommendations for Las Vegas, including using Uber and exploring the unique hotels.
• Justin's end show sign-off phrase is 'Thank you for listening. Thank you for the opportunities and we'll see you very soon.'

Sound Bites

• "People don't ask enough. Are you doing OK?"
• "Seeing the sphere, like I say to myself, I couldn't come to Vegas without going inside the sphere."
• "The best gift I've been given is the opportunities in doing this and becoming a tech influencer."

Connect with Justin Dawson:
www.JustinRDawson.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinrdawson/
https://x.com/justinrdawson
https://allthingstech.ie
https://avgroup.ie


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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://higheredav.com/

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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

Recorded live from the HETMA booth at InfoComm 2024, Ryan Gray interviews Justin Dawson and its a little all over the place. They discuss various topics including Dublin City University, the convergence of IT and AV, the differences between higher education in Ireland and the US, the AV Group.ie community in Ireland, the future of HETMA, the All Things Tech.ie podcast, and their experiences at nfoComm. They also touch on the trade show experience, the differences between InfoComm and ISE, and the products and technologies they are interested in seeing at the show.


Takeaways

• Dublin City University is known for its School of Nursing and offers a range of tech services, including IT and AV support.
• The convergence of IT and AV is becoming more common, and professionals in the field often have to handle a variety of tasks.
• Higher education in Ireland differs from the US in terms of team structure and student involvement.
• AV Group.ie is a community in Ireland that aims to bring together tech professionals and students from various industries.
• HETMA has the potential to expand globally and create a sense of community among tech professionals in higher education.
• The All Things Tech.ie podcast covers a wide range of tech topics, not just AV, and has gained attention as an influencer in the industry.
• InfoComm offers a different experience compared to ISE, with less walking and a more comfortable atmosphere.
• Catchbox is a popular product in Ireland that offers a fun and affordable alternative to traditional audio solutions.
• The trade show experience at InfoComm includes parties and events hosted by major manufacturers, providing a unique and exciting atmosphere.
• Visiting InfoComm is a must for anyone in the industry, and it offers the opportunity to experience the scale and grandeur of Vegas.
• Justin Dawson can be contacted through his website and social media channels for more information about his podcast and the AV Group.ie community.

Sound Bites

• "AV Groupie, we noticed over in Ireland that there's a lot of integrators, there's a lot of technicians, whether you're working in live events, whether you're doing film production, whether, no, we are a tech hub in Ireland, yet nobody is talking to each other."
• "I would never have dreamt that it would get to the size and capacity that it has from doing these trade shows, becoming, somehow or other I'm a tech influencer like you guys, you know, like all of a sudden people pay attention to us and we're representing not only just higher ed, but like the AV industry."

Connect with Justin Dawson:
www.JustinRDawson.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinrdawson/
https://x.com/justinrdawson
https://allthingstech.ie
https://avgroup.ie


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

Follow the Show:
https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifier
https://higheredav.com/

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 very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!