Surroundscapes

This episode of *Surroundscapes* welcomes Greg Spain, Vice President of Dealer Development at Steady Brand, for a conversation about the evolution of commercial music and the technologies reshaping how businesses manage their audio experiences. Greg and Craig explore Steady Brand’s dealer-focused approach, the value of recurring revenue for integrators, and its new partnership with Bluesound Professional. From creating more intentional branded environments with licensed commercial music to centralized management and AI-powered messaging, the episode highlights how streaming, smarter technology, and strong dealer relationships are creating new opportunities across the commercial AV industry.

This episode of Surroundscapes continues the conversation with Ross and Reza as they explore why, when it comes to commercial audio, simpler can often be better. From reducing training and installation requirements to eliminating unnecessary hardware and complexity, they discuss how streamlined control solutions can make life easier for integrators, managers, and everyday users alike. The conversation also looks at customizable interfaces, PoE-powered systems, flexible scalability, and how choosing only the technology a space actually needs can create a more efficient and cost-effective audio solution.

Episode 5 of Surroundscapes explores the intersection of creativity, technology, and immersive experience with Oisin O’Brien, founder of Visual Spectrum Studios. From large-scale projection mapping and global touring productions to spatial audio, automation, and new media art, Oisin shares how his team combines creative direction with technical production to build experiences that surround the audience. The conversation also looks at the future of immersive entertainment, the importance of collaboration between creatives and technology partners, and how Visual Spectrum Studios is using its Belfast space as an incubator for new ideas designed to travel around the world.

Episode 4 of Surroundscapes Season 8 welcomes Dmitri Vietze, founder of Rock Paper Scissors and Music Tectonics, for a wide-ranging conversation about the forces reshaping music, technology, and professional AV. From building stronger connections between creators and technologists to rethinking how sound can create more intentional, immersive experiences, Dmitri and Graeme explore where these increasingly connected industries are headed. The discussion also dives into AI and human creativity, new opportunities for artist monetization and super fandom, and how emerging technologies could create more interactive and engaging experiences in retail, hospitality, and beyond.

This episode of Surroundscapes takes a closer look at how Bluesound Professional is helping transform the in-store audio experience at Westridge and Valley Fresh Markets. Craig Cooper sits down with Manny Rodriguez to discuss the family-owned grocer’s search for a reliable, high-quality commercial audio solution and how Bluesound Professional has delivered throughout the store—from background music and paging to audio inside the coolers. They also explore ease of use, installation, customer and staff reactions, and why the solution is now being expanded to additional locations.

Episode 2 of Surroundscapes Season 8 explores the idea that “the speaker is the system” and how intelligent, all-in-one networked speakers are simplifying commercial audio. Ross and Reza discuss how bringing streaming, DSP, amplification, and the loudspeaker together in a single endpoint can reduce installation complexity while unlocking greater flexibility, scalability, and control. From dynamic zoning and remote monitoring to proactive troubleshooting and new managed-service opportunities for integrators, this episode looks at how smarter endpoints are changing the way commercial audio systems are designed, installed, and supported.

Episode 1 of Surroundscapes Season 8 kicks off the new season with AV industry veteran Roland Hemming for a fascinating conversation on the trends, technologies, and ideas shaping the future of professional AV. Drawing on decades of experience—from landmark projects like the Millennium Dome and the London Olympics to consulting, standards development, and marketing—Roland shares his perspective on AI, cybersecurity, immersive experiences, sustainability, and the evolution of systems integration. It's an insightful discussion packed with real-world expertise and a forward-looking view of where our industry is headed.

Episode 11 of Surroundscapes Series 7 wraps up the season with a compelling case study from the TED Conference in Vancouver, showcasing how immersive sound design can transform real-world environments. From the creation of a biophilic “listening room” powered by generative soundscapes to its impact on attendee wellbeing, focus, and engagement, this episode explores the growing role of sound in shaping human experience. It also highlights how these solutions are extending into workplaces, healthcare, and beyond—driving productivity, reducing stress, and redefining how we design spaces for people.

Episode 10 of Surroundscapes Series 7 dives into the fundamentals of troubleshooting, exploring why a methodical, back-to-basics approach is more critical than ever in today’s networked AV environments. From starting simple and isolating variables to navigating complex configurations, VLANs, and AV-over-IP systems, this episode breaks down practical strategies to diagnose issues faster and more effectively. Whether you’re an integrator or technician, it’s a valuable reminder that strong troubleshooting isn’t just a skill—it’s essential to delivering reliable, efficient deployments.

Episode 9 of Surroundscapes Series 7 explores the power of listening with renowned speaker and author Julian Treasure, diving into why listening is one of the most overlooked yet critical skills in business and everyday life. From the global impact of poor listening—affecting communication, leadership, and wellbeing—to the role of sound in shaping human experience, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how we engage with the world through audio. With insights from TED, emerging research, and real-world applications, the conversation highlights how better listening can transform organizations, relationships, and the environments we design.