Recorded on April 22nd, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Carl James to explore how the pandemic reshaped his understanding of educational engagement. Drawing from personal experience and professional innovation, Carl shares how hybrid classroom design can empower both faculty and students—and why rethinking our learning spaces is essential for the future. Throughout the episode, they discuss:

• The importance of fostering community and true engagement in hybrid and in-person classrooms
• Strategies for supporting faculty who are less comfortable with tech, and helping them become the best version of themselves
• Why collaboration tools are vital for tackling complex, interdisciplinary global challenges
• A candid conversation about AI, data centers, and sustainability in higher ed technology
• ...and more!

Whether you’re dreaming up your next classroom redesign or just want to feel inspired by what’s possible when tech meets heart, this episode is packed with insight and energy. Be sure to listen to the end to hear our action items!

Connect with Carl James
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 610 657 4049

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on April 8th, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser chats with Laura Jansen, Director of Workforce Development at NSCA. Laura shares her personal journey with emotional intelligence, burnout recovery, and the ongoing challenge of embracing change. From her passion for mental health advocacy to her creative hobby making crocheted koozie mittens, Laura brings a refreshing blend of vulnerability, insight, and light-heartedness. Together, Britt and Laura dive into:

• The four pillars of emotional intelligence and how to strengthen them
• How burnout led Laura to reevaluate her commitments and rediscover her strengths
• The importance of listening to listen — not just to respond
• Why it's okay (and necessary) to be everything all at once: strong and struggling, capable and still learning
• Her advice for those standing at the edge of change, unsure of their next step

Be sure to listen to the end to learn more about Laura and to hear our action items!
 
Bonus: Learn more about NSCA’s Excellence in Business Operations (XBO) event and how it supports leadership development in the AV industry.

Mentioned in this episode:

• NSCA’s XBO event: https://www.nsca.org
• Hope Walk of Cedar Rapids

Connect with Laura Janssen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janssenlaura816/

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on April 1st, 2025

Tune in as host Britt Yenser sits down with the insightful and inspiring Siobhan Stewart. Together, they explore showing up boldly and joyfully in professional spaces (and in life)! Throughout the episode, they discuss:

• The advice Siobhan would give to her younger self
• Go-to encouragement she shares with women entering or growing in the industry
• Real-world tips for women traveling to trade shows and conferences
• How she navigates and overcomes challenges
• ...and more!

Be sure to listen to the end to hear our action items and learn more about Siobhan!

Connect with Siobhan Stewart
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siobhanstewartav/

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on March 18th, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Amelia Vrabel for a conversation about carving out space in the AV industry. Amelia shares the advice she’d give her younger self, reflecting on lessons learned and challenges overcome. She and Britt discuss how AV has room for everyone and why embracing a multigenerational workforce is key to the industry's growth. Throughout the episode, they discuss:

• The advice Amelia would give her younger self
• How there is space for everyone in AV
• The benefits and challenges of a multigenerational workforce
• Being a woman in AV and how experiences have changed over time
• ...and more!

Join us for an honest, empowering discussion about representation and the future of a more diverse and welcoming AV industry. Be sure to listen to the end to hear our action items!

Connect with Amelia Vrabel
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameliaevrabel/

Connect with Britt Yenser:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on March 11, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Lisle Waldron for a heartfelt and eye-opening discussion on understanding neurodivergence and embracing individual flaws. Together, they explore:

• The emotional toll of autism
• Navigating others’ perceptions in professional settings
• The challenges and strengths of neurodivergence
• The importance of self-acceptance and resilience
• Finding your unique path and embracing authenticity

Lisle shares personal insights on fostering inclusivity, challenging assumptions, and redefining success on your own terms. Whether you identify as neurodivergent or want to create a more supportive environment, this conversation is a must-listen.Tune in for a brAVe conversation that celebrates individuality and encourages us all to rethink what it means to thrive. Be sure to listen to the end to hear our action items!

Connect with Lisle Waldron
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lislew/
Phone: 868 683 2442

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on February 25th, 2025

In this thought-provoking episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Chris Kelly for a candid conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Together, they tackle:

• Why DEI sparks strong reactions
• Actionable steps for allies
• Equality vs. Equity
• The role of AV managers in fostering inclusion
• ...and more!

Tune in for an honest and insightful discussion that challenges perspectives and empowers action! And be sure to listen to the end to learn more about Chris and to hear our action items. 

Connect with Chris Kelly:
[email protected]

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on January 28th, 2024

Time is one of our most valuable resources—but are you using it intentionally? In this episode of brAVe [skills], cohosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather explore what it means to set boundaries with your time and take control of your schedule.

From recognizing the choices you’re making to creating space for what truly matters, they share insights on prioritization, scheduling, and communication. They also dive into the power of saying no, being honest about your needs, and staying flexible without losing sight of your goals.

If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin or struggled to balance it all, this conversation will help you rethink your approach and set boundaries that work for you.

When Coran Smith's episode first aired on October 3rd, 2024, the Higher Ed AV Website was under construction! While this episode aired across podcast platforms, it did not make its way to the website. Coran deserves the full airing and all of the attention, so please enjoy this episode again!

Recorded September 17th, 2024
Originally Aired October 3rd, 2024

"From the mundane to the monumental-- everything matters." -- Coran Smith 

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser is joined by Coran Smith, AKA "that awesome guy in the Yankee fitted hat at Infocomm." Despite his wealth of experience being on stages and hosting webinars, this is Coran's debut as a podcast guest! Throughout the episode, Britt and Coran cover:

• Coran's journey through his AV career
• Being willing to ask questions
• Showing up as your authentic self
• "Don't solo before you solo" 
• The AV industry's image 
• ...and more! 

Be sure to listen to the end to learn more about Coran and to hear our action items!

Connect with Coran Smith
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coran-smith-88455436/
X: https://x.com/Musiqislife

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on January 7, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Murphy Daley, an experienced AV project manager and author, to discuss her winding journey of building a career in AV. Murphy shares insights on:

• The challenge of discovering what’s possible in the industry
• The importance of taking leaps of faith
• Navigating the workplace when dealing with serious illness 
• Handling uncomfortable situations
• ...and more!

Together, they explore the power of vulnerability and the resilience it takes to grow both personally and professionally. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about courage, adaptability, and finding your path in AV.

Be sure to listen to the end to learn more about Murphy and to hear our action items!

Connect with Murphy Daley
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/writtenbymurphy/
X: https://x.com/WrittenByMurphy

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

Recorded on November 19, 2024

In this episode of brAVe [skills], co-hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the power of setting clear communication boundaries. They explore why clarity is an act of kindness, how to be purposeful in your messaging, and the importance of using the right language to express what you truly mean.

Britt and Leon share their own experiences with boundary-setting, discuss effective methods for establishing and maintaining them, and offer insight on how to recognize when it’s time to adjust. Throughout the conversation, they provide practical, doable strategies to help you create healthier communication habits in both personal and professional settings. 

The episode wraps up with key takeaways and actionable steps, so you can start setting and honoring your own boundaries with confidence. 

Tune in and take the first step toward clearer, kinder communication!

Connect with Leon Prather
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-prather-cts/

Connect with Britt Yenser
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/
X: https://x.com/brAVe_britt_

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