Recorded on August 5th, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], Britt welcomes Rebecca Sullins to share her journey in the AV industry—from live theater and touring life to senior design engineering. Rebecca opens up about career transitions, industry connections, and what it takes to thrive in a field that’s always evolving. Highlights from the conversation:

• Rebecca’s path from roadie life to senior design engineer
• How relationships and connections shape careers in AV
• The importance of adaptability and staying curious
• Advice for those who want to build a sustainable AV career
• ...and more!

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in AV for years, this episode will inspire you to think about your career as both a journey and a community.

Connect with Rebecca Sullins
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-sullins-ctsd-ctsi/

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

In this episode of brAVe [skills], Britt Yenser and Leon Prather explore the powerful theme of believing you’re enough—both in leadership and in life. They frame leadership not just as a title but as a daily practice that begins with self-belief and resilience.

Britt approaches the topic through the lens of grit and growth mindset—developing the confidence to step up when called, even without a formal title. Leon shares from a mental health angle, highlighting the common struggles of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the importance of confronting the inner voice that says, “I’m not enough.”

They discuss how feelings of being “othered” in professional spaces can deepen this struggle, and Leon offers personal stories about choosing to step forward, speak up, and trust that his voice matters. Both hosts emphasize that confidence is not innate but a skill built over time through action, grace, and persistence.

The conversation also touches on personal journeys—parenthood, changing roles, and moments of vulnerability—illustrating how believing you’re enough applies beyond the workplace. Practical takeaways include:

• Just start—don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to act.
  
  
• Confront self-doubt by naming and challenging the thoughts that fuel it.
  
  
• Extend grace to yourself and others, recognizing everyone wrestles with these feelings.
  
  
• Seek support when needed—therapy can be a valuable tool.
  
  

Ultimately, they remind listeners that showing up fully as yourself is always enough—and often the most powerful leadership act you can offer.

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

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

Recorded July 22nd, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], Britt Yenser welcomes Charity Anne Caldwell! Throughout the episode, they discuss her journey into AV, navigating male-dominated spaces, balancing motherhood with a tech career, and stepping into leadership. Charity Anne shares candid insights, personal stories, and a healthy dose of political awareness. In this conversation, you’ll hear about:

• How Charity Anne's background in linguistics and ESL teaching shaped her AV and IT career
• The realities of childcare costs, career pauses, and returning to work with confidence
• Navigating gender dynamics in traditionally male tech environments
• Examples of subtle and not-so-subtle bias—and how allyship can make a difference
• The intersection of politics, education, and leadership in higher ed
• Side quests on impactful literature, AV’s teaching element, and the joys of making music
• ...and more!

Whether you’re a working parent in tech, a leader in higher ed, or simply someone who values authentic conversations about growth and equity, this episode invites you to reflect, learn, and find courage in your own career transitions.

Connect with Charity Anne Caldwell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charityannecaldwell/

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

In this candid comeback episode of brAVe [skills], Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the uncomfortable but essential topic of risk aversion. From job changes to leadership decisions, they unpack the real and perceived fears that keep us stuck—and the personal and professional growth that happens when we push past them. Britt shares how mentorship and therapy helped her reframe her fear of failure, while Leon reflects on how experience (and maybe a little stand-up comedy wisdom) shaped his ability to take calculated risks. Together, they explore:

• Why comfort isn't always the safe choice
• The difference between real and perceived risk
• The value of support systems like mentorship and a “personal cabinet”

Whether you're leading a team or leading yourself through change, this episode offers thoughtful insights—and a few laughs—about how to move forward when fear says stay put.

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

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

Recorded on July 8th, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Brittney Grant for an honest and reflective conversation about change, community, and resilience. Brittney opens up about a year full of transition—from family moves to shifting friendships—and how these changes have affected her sense of direction. She shares how her "True North" has been anchored by her theater family and the support she's found in the HETMA community. Tune in as they explore:

• How AV professionals navigate personal upheaval while staying grounded in their work
• The importance of chosen family and trusted spaces
• Why leaning into community is essential during life’s most uncertain chapters

This episode is a powerful reminder that even in turbulent times, we can find clarity and connection through the people and spaces that truly see us. Be sure to listen to the end to hear Brittney's side quest answers and to hear our action items!

Connect with Brittney Grant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittneymgrant/

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

Recorded on May 27th, 2025

In this vibrant episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Robyn Bryce for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring, nerdy, and deeply human. Throughout the episode, they discuss:

• Robyn's journey from K-12 educator to higher ed tech leader, and how embracing curiosity helped her confidently shift into tech.
• How AI and XR are transforming education—and why relationship-building is key to overcoming fear and resistance.
• The importance of humanizing tech adoption, from designing with accessibility in mind to helping faculty feel less overwhelmed by change.
• Candid discussion of Robyn's experience as a woman in technology, why trade shows like InfoComm spark big ideas, and how collaboration (not solo innovation) leads to better outcomes.
• ...and more!

Be sure to listen to the end to learn more about Robyn and hear our action items.

Connect with Robyn Bryce
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynbryce/
Email: [email protected]

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

Recorded on May 13th, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Matt Pana for a conversation that’s part AV journey, part mental health reflection, and fully human. Matt shares how he transitioned into the AV industry from a background in music, marketing, and podcasting—and how he’s embraced his role by staying true to his punk rock, DIY roots. Throughout the episode, they discuss:

• Navigating imposter syndrome and finding confidence as a “nontraditional” AV professional
• Balancing people-pleasing tendencies with the realities of managing demanding events
• Creating healthy boundaries while still delivering white-glove experiences
• How mindfulness, journaling, and therapy support self-awareness and sustainable performance
• What it means to be a mental health advocate by simply living the journey out loud
• ...and more!

Tune in for a brAVe [space] episode where identity, AV, and mental wellness intersect, and be sure to listen to the end to hear our action items!

Connect with Matt Pana
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpana/

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

Recorded on April 29th, 2025

In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Xzavia Killikelly for a powerful and candid conversation about professional development, mentorship, and the importance of building a social brand—both online and offline. Xzavia shares how he fell into the AV industry, what it took to catch up, and how the right mentors (and mindset) transformed his career. Throughout the episode, they discuss:

• Why professional development is deeply personal—and essential
• Real talk on mentorship: finding one, being one, and what to ask
• Social development and building your personal brand with intention
• How to carve out time for passions when life gets overwhelming
• Encouragement for Gen Z on navigating online presence with authenticity
• ...and more!

Whether you're new to AV or a seasoned pro, this episode will leave you inspired to keep learning, stay connected, and lift others as you grow. Stay tuned until the end for some fun side quest questions—including mammoths, stand-up comedy, and getting through customs. 

Connect with Xzavia Killikelly
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xzavia-killikelly-cts/

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

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_