Claim OwnershipAlways on the Hunt with Leo Golubitsky
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The A/V industry is filled with the latest and greatest technology...from mesmerizing Video Walls to immersive Sound Systems to cutting edge Smart Homes...But what really makes the industry great, is its people!
I'm Leo Golubitsky, owner and Headhunter at Birddog Talent, where we're Always on the Hunt for top A/V talent. Even the most experienced hunters will use the help of Birddogs to make their hunts more efficient and effective.
So, whether you're hunting for your next career opportunity or hunting for some top talent for your team, join us weekly as we explore different strategies and talk to industry leaders to help you plan your hunt and bag your best results!
Follow us now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.
I'm Leo Golubitsky, owner and Headhunter at Birddog Talent, where we're Always on the Hunt for top A/V talent. Even the most experienced hunters will use the help of Birddogs to make their hunts more efficient and effective.
So, whether you're hunting for your next career opportunity or hunting for some top talent for your team, join us weekly as we explore different strategies and talk to industry leaders to help you plan your hunt and bag your best results!
Follow us now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your shows.
23 Episodes
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How do you lead global marketing for a giant like Crestron, steer an industry association like CEDIA through massive change, and help build a 65-year-old ESOP company for the future? The answer, according to veteran AV leader Vin Bruno, always comes back to two things: people and simplicity. In this episode of Always On The Hunt, Vin shares his incredible journey from fixing mixers to shaping the AV industry. He opens up about the pivotal lessons learned from working with industry titans, the strategy behind consolidating CEDIA into a global entity, and why the simplest solution is almost always the right one for clients. Whether you're an integrator, manufacturer, or just interested in leadership, this conversation is packed with wisdom on building trust, fostering talent, and navigating the complex human dynamics of technology. Connect with Vin: Vincent Bruno on LinkedIn avservices.net Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, we sit down with Noah Kaplan, the visionary founder of Leon Speakers—a company that has redefined the intersection of art, design, and audio technology. Noah shares his unconventional journey from artist and musician to pioneering entrepreneur, who made the bold move to build high-end speakers in Michigan while his competitors moved overseas. Discover how Leon Speakers blends Bohemian creativity with cutting-edge AV solutions, from custom soundbars to one-of-a-kind trade show booths. Noah dives into the importance of authenticity, the challenges of balancing artistry with business, and why staying true to your vision matters—even when the industry pushes conformity. Whether you're an AV professional, entrepreneur, or just someone who loves a great origin story, this conversation is packed with inspiration. Tune in and get ready to rethink what's possible in technology and design! Connect with Noah: linktr.ee/noah_kaps leonspeakers.com Noah Kaplan on LinkedIn Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, we sit down with Brandy Alvarado- Miranda—founder and CEO of BAM Marketing and PR, co-founder of WAVIT, and former chair of the AVIXA Women's Council. Brandy shares her incredible journey from the "boring" world of insurance marketing to becoming a powerhouse in the pro-AV and digital signage space. Discover how Brandy's fearless approach led her to launch her own agency during the pandemic, her passion for mentorship and inclusion, and the founding of WAVIT to empower women in AV. We also dive into the importance of authentic storytelling in marketing, the challenges of personal branding, and why the AV industry needs to do a better job of marketing itself to attract fresh talent. From getting thrown into her first InfoComm with zero AV knowledge to building a thriving business and advocacy platform, Brandy's story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of community. Tune in for actionable insights on marketing, leadership, and how to make a lasting impact in any industry. Connect with Brandy: Brandy Alvarado-Miranda on LinkedIn https://www.bammarketingagency.com/ https://www.womeninavit.org/ Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, Leo sits down with the multi-talented Michael Bailey Smith, a man who's lived multiple dreams. He's landed roles in iconic films like A Nightmare on Elm Street and Men in Black 2, and the new Fantastic Four. He's jumped out of planes as an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper. He's played Division I football and chased an NFL career. And he's had a long and successful career in the IoT industry. Michael's life has been anything but ordinary. Today, Michael is the founder of IoT Powerhouse, where he helps companies achieve massive growth in the cutting-edge IoT space. How did a Hollywood actor become a tech industry dynamo? What lessons from his unbelievable journey? And what's his secret to turning "no" into "next opportunity"? Michael shares his incredible journey, full of hard-won wisdom, audacious goals, and the mindset that keeps him winning in every arena. Whether you're in tech, sales, or just need a dose of inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable insights on resilience, trust-building, and the whirlwind that is ever-present in the journey towards success. Check out iotpowerhouse.com to see how Micheal can help your business! Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this special episode of Always On The Hunt, Randy Blanchard turns the tables and takes the interviewer's seat to chat with Leo Golubitsky, founder of Birddog Talent and a longtime leader in the AV industry. From Leo's early days launching S.M.I.L.E., Inc. (an AV integration company focused on customer experience over tech specs) to his transition into recruiting and launching this very podcast, this conversation dives deep into lessons learned, industry evolution, and the importance of relationships. Plus, Randy and Leo reminisce about their 25-year history in the industry, discuss the crossroads AV faces today, and reveal their favorite (and least favorite) products they've ever sold. Whether you're in AV, recruitment, or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with authenticity, humor, and actionable insights. Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
This week on Always on the Hunt, Leo sits down with Vince Schuster, Senior Vice President of Sales at Neoti and a well-respected leader in the Pro AV industry. With decades of experience across major and emerging AV brands—including Electrograph, Planar, and more—Vince shares his unique perspective on industry trends, leadership, and the evolving landscape of professional AV. Vince and Leo dive into what made this year's InfoComm so great, and the re-normalization of an industry rocked by events such as the tariffs and COVID. They also dive into the importance of mentorship and collaboration in shaping the future of AV. Whether you're an AV veteran or new to the industry, Vince's insights on business resilience, relationship-building, and industry advocacy are invaluable. Tune in for a must-listen conversation on where Pro AV is headed—and how to thrive in it. Connect with Vince: LinkedIn | vince.schuster@neoti.com Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
This week on "Always On The Hunt", Leo speaks with Alesia Hendley, Business Development Manager at Sennheiser, Social Media Influencer, blogger, story teller, advocate for diversity in AV, and at her core, a highly capable sound engineer and technician who still knows how to get hands-on and make systems work. In this episode, Alesia unpacks how social media and storytelling are reshaping B2B engagement, proving that even in a hardware-driven industry, personality opens doors. From her InfoComm panel engagements to sneaker meetups, Alicia's take on "unconventional" paths will make you rethink how to stand out, and why diversity isn't just a checkbox, but a competitive edge. Alesia dives deep into the evolving landscape of AV and tech, sharing hard-earned wisdom on why relationships and authenticity matter more than specs alone. She highlights the shifting dynamics between manufacturers, consultants, and end-users, and why getting a seat at the design table early is the future of integration. If you are an AV pro, an advocate for change, or interested in joining this ever evolving industry, you'll want to tune in! Connect with Alesia: LinkedIn thesmoothfactor.com @thesmoothfactor on Instagram @thesmoothfactor on X/Twitter Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Join us on Always on the Hunt as we sit down with industry veteran Michael Lakhter— a true rainmaker with over 25 years of experience transforming startups into industry leaders and leading industry leaders in Sales, with his powerful outlook and performance. In this insightful episode, Michael shares his journey from humble beginnings in Ukraine to becoming a top sales force in the AV world, revealing the mindset, strategies, and relationship-building secrets that keep him at the top of his game. We discuss the importance of proactive leadership, the power of trust and responsiveness, and how to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you're an aspiring sales pro or a seasoned industry expert, Michael's stories and lessons will inspire you to elevate your approach and embrace the hunter mindset. Tune in for a masterclass on sales, resilience, and building lasting success in the AV industry no matter what hand you were dealt. Are you on the hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, host Leo welcomes special guest Matt Bernath, a powerhouse in the luxury home services industry and president of VITAL. Together, they dive deep into the core challenges and opportunities facing business owners, from team building and company culture to financial mastery and personal leadership. Matt shares his inspiring journey, marked by growth and a passion for impact, showcases his financial expertise, strategic vision, and knack for asking bold questions. Matt shares insights on transforming struggling businesses into thriving, profitable ventures, all while emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, trust, and self-awareness in leadership. Whether you're an integrator, entrepreneur, or industry professional, discover actionable strategies to elevate your business, cultivate a healthy culture, and unlock your full potential. Tune in for honest insights, practical tips, and a dose of motivation to help you lead with purpose and confidence. Are you on the hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this week's episode of Always on the Hunt, we're thrilled to welcome Nick Begleries, a seasoned expert in the audiovisual (AV) industry with over 20 years of experience. As the VP of Commercial Sales at Philips Professional Display Solutions, Nick has an impressive track record of leading sales teams for top manufacturers, including Planar, Samsung, and NanoLumens. Join Leo and Nick as they delve into the changing landscape of the AV industry, discuss effective sales strategies for both channel and distribution, and share insights on what it takes to succeed in a competitive market. Tune in to learn how to maximize opportunities in the ever-evolving AV ecosystem, and build concrete sales strategies all right here on Always on the Hunt! Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Welcome back to Always on the Hunt! This week, we're joined by Peter Melvin—a true rock star in the AV industry and the self-proclaimed "purveyor of fun", a title he most certainly lives up to. Peter's infectious energy and optimistic outlook have made him a favorite in the field, and we're excited to delve into his journey of building connections and fostering a positive work culture. We'll discover Peter's unique approach to sales that prioritizes curiosity over the hard sell, as well as the significance of being genuine in a corporate environment. He opens up about key figures in his career that made an impression, both positively and negatively, and how those experiences shaped his leadership style. With the AV landscape constantly changing, Peter shares his insights on navigating current industry challenges, embracing opportunities, and maintaining a fun, collaborative atmosphere at work—even during tough times and big shifts. Whether you're in the AV world or just curious about leadership and personal branding, this lively conversation is packed with valuable insights that you won't want to miss! Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Welcome back to Always On The Hunt! This week Leo sits down with Curtiss Singleton, a man recognized by Commercial Integrator Magazine as a "Living Legend". With over three decades of experience, Curtiss has a long track record of leadership that has inspired teams, driven transformative growth, successfully navigated companies through challenging turnarounds, and he's still got plenty left in the tank! Join us as Curtiss shares insights on his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of culture, mentorship, and how to build winning teams. Curtiss shares hard-earned lessons from the frontlines of leadership — from building high-performing teams and driving cultural change, to navigating complex turnarounds and leading companies through successful acquisitions. We talk about what it takes to be a trusted advisor, how to recognize when it's time to pivot, and why listening might be the most underrated leadership skill out there. Curtiss also offers career advice for young professionals with aspirations to lead, drawing on personal stories and candid reflections from his time in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming sales pro, this episode is packed with wisdom, perspective, and practical takeaways. Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Welcome back to Always on the Hunt! In this episode, host Leo dives deep into the intricate world of the audiovisual (AV) industry with Kurt DeYoung, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience. As the Chief Revenue Officer at Nanolumens, Kurt has been pivotal in turning the company around, driving growth, and forging strategic partnerships across various verticals, including retail, corporate, entertainment, and healthcare. Kurt shares his fascinating journey from starting out in a small AV manufacturer to tackling challenges in healthcare technology and his impactful tenure at Barco. With a unique perspective on how to bridge the gap between marketing and sales, he reveals the importance of understanding your customer's needs and the art of listening. Tune in to hear Kurt discuss the lessons learned from his extensive career, the importance of building trust within professional relationships, and the strategies that have led to success in an ever-evolving market. From navigating challenges like tariffs to embracing innovations in marketing, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to thrive in the AV industry. Are You on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, we welcome Todd McCandless, a global product sales and marketing leader with a wealth of experience from launching an integration firm to pivotal leadership roles in one of the largest A/V manufacturers. Todd shares captivating insights from his remarkable journey, including the launch and acquisition of his own integration firm, his tenure at Barco, and his passion for Formula One racing, which he's turned into the number one independent F1 podcast: The Parc Fermé F1 Podcast Join Leo and Todd as they delve into the world of audio/visual technology, exploring the current and future landscape of A/V innovation. Learn how Todd harnessed storytelling as a marketing tool to drive product adoption and connect with audiences authentically. Discover the imperative need for the A/V industry to embrace AI and innovation, and why integrators hold the key to shaping the future of technology. Whether you're an integrator, manufacturer, or just a technology enthusiast, Todd's perspective on the integration of AI and the importance of understanding customer workflows will inspire you to think differently about the future of AV. Connect with Todd: Linkedin The Parc Fermé F1 Podcast Are you on the Hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Welcome back to Always On The Hunt! In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence and its transformative impact on the Audio-Visual industry. Host Leo is joined by the insightful Alexander Oddoz-Mazet, a seasoned expert from the Unified Communications and Collaboration space, who led Microsoft Team's AI Go To Market Strategy. Together, they discuss how AI is revolutionizing the way we meet, interact, and manage technology in the AV realm—shifting from traditional methods to innovative, AI-driven solutions. Alexander shares his extensive experience leading marketing strategies for Microsoft Teams and elaborates on how manufacturers, resellers, and integrators should embrace AI to stay competitive. Are you on the hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this enlightening episode of Always on the Hunt, we welcome Jason Sayen, a seasoned process architect with over 30 years of experience in the luxury AV industry. With a strong background in Lean Six Sigma methodologies, Jason helps businesses redefine their operational frameworks and eliminate process voids through effective workflow documentation. Join us as Jason shares his journey from sales leadership at major audio brands to becoming a sought-after consultant in process optimization. Discover how his unique approach empowers companies to activate workflows, enhance communication, and ultimately boost profitability. We dive deep into the common pitfalls businesses face as they scale up, explore the critical importance of standard operating procedures, and highlight the role of technology in driving efficiency. Whatever stage your business is at, people like Jason can help you build up a foundation of business processes that will help you scale your business and weather any storm that might come your way. Are you on the hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Welcome back to Always on the Hunt! In today's episode we are joined by Clint Hoffman, an industry leader, actually more like an Industry Legend. With more than 40 years' experience in sales, marketing, operations and product development working for many of the biggest names in the industry such as Sony, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, Kramer and currently the President & CEO of Lightware Visual Engineering. In addition to his incredibly successful career, he has given back to the industry by serving in many leadership roles with AVIXA. In this episode, Join Leo and Clint as they discuss the art of building successful teams. Clint shares his insights on leadership, mentoring, talent acquisition, and retention. Discover how he fostered a positive culture at companies like Kramer and Sony, and learn what he looks for when recruiting top talent. Plus, get his take on the future of the Pro-AV industry, including the rise of USB-C and monitoring solutions. Are you on the hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
Welcome back to Always on the Hunt! In today's episode, we celebrate a long-standing veteran of the AV industry, Randy Blanchard. With over three decades of experience, Randy has been influential in shaping the Residential A/V Integration Industry. From spearheading innovative retail practices to evolving integration techniques and leading major distributors, buying groups, and manufacturers! He has seen it all—and he shares it all with us! Join Leo and Randy as they reminisce about their history in the Residential AV Integration space, discuss the current state of the industry, and uncover the keys to success. Discover the importance of adaptability, passion, and mentorship for newcomers in the field, and hear Randy's insights on the changes affecting the integration market today. Is the industry leaning once again toward high-end solutions only? What innovative revolution could be around the corner? Tune in for an energetic conversation filled with wisdom, as Randy highlights how to regain that emotional connection with customers and keep the spirit of innovation alive in a fast-evolving landscape. On the hunt? Visit birddogtalent.com
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, host Leo Golubitsky sits down with Steve Samson, a seasoned corporate leader, entrepreneur, and business development executive in the A/V Industry. Steve shares his journey from building his first AV integration company as a teenager to leading groundbreaking product launches and incredible sales growth at industry giants like Crestron and Lightware. Steve dives into the lessons he's learned along the way, including the importance of creating win-win-win solutions, the different skills required working for large corporations versus upstart companies, and the evolving landscape of the AV industry as it shifts toward software and cloud-based solutions. He also offers valuable insights on leadership, hiring, and the power of positivity in both business and life. Tune in to hear Steve's optimistic outlook for 2025, his thoughts on navigating industry challenges like tariffs, and his advice for candidates and hiring managers alike. Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you stay ahead in the ever-changing world of AV.
In this episode of Always on the Hunt, host Leo Golubitsky welcomes Dan Ferrisi to discuss the evolving landscape of the commercial A/V and security industries. Dan Ferrisi is a technology journalist who covers the commercial A/V and electronic and physical security industries. Currently serving as group editor, commercial and security, Emerald, he oversees the Commercial Integrator and Security Sales & Integration brands. With a focus on helping integrators run their businesses better, Dan and his team have a mission-driven approach to journalism, leaning heavily on business best practices and adaptive evolution to drive greater efficiency and profitability. He's active on the trade show scene and maintains an active presence on social media, including and especially as part of the #avtweeps community. With two decades of experience in technology journalism, Dan shares his unique insights into key trends, including the shift from hardware to software-centric solutions and the growing significance of user experience. Together, they delve into the ongoing challenges and opportunities surrounding talent acquisition in the industry, highlighting innovative approaches such as internship programs and diversity initiatives. Dan expresses the urgent need for integrators to adapt and evolve in a post-COVID world. Listeners will gain actionable advice on how to navigate their careers in this exciting space, focusing on mentorship and continual learning as crucial components for success. Whether you're a new candidate considering a career in AV or a seasoned integrator looking for ways to enhance your business, you'll want to hear these valuable insights and pragmatic approaches for your professional journey. Are you on the hunt? Visit us at birddogtalent.com
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