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HETMA Presents...

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September’s Road to 10K digs into how positive, repeatable habits become the engine of team culture and performance. Host Ryan Gray is joined by Brian Shanks (Texas State University), Annie Foster (Washington and Lee University; HETMA Secretary), and Steve Greenblatt (Control Concepts) to swap practical frameworks: stacking habits so one triggers the next, using “alerts” to spot when you’re slipping, replacing the old “just get it done” reflex with “get it done right,” and gamifying quality through commissioning and scoring handoffs between integration and support. The group keeps outcomes at the center and treats process as a living system—iterated, owned, and measured. They also get into the leadership moves that make habits stick: start with trust, invite fresh eyes to question sacred cows, sell the vision (don’t just demand it), and build internal champions who keep momentum when attention shifts. Steve introduces EOS-style Level 10 rhythms as a repeatable structure for reviewing goals and metrics, while Brian and Annie show how empowerment at the “lowest level” creates real buy-in. It’s a timely, practical blueprint for September’s theme—Build a System—so your team can thrive when crunch time hits. Topics DiscussedHabit stacking and using “alerts” to course-correct early. Turning “get it done” culture into “get it done right” quality. Commissioning + scoring spaces to close the loop between integration and support. Trust first: empowering teams to solve problems at the lowest level. Giving new hires permission to challenge the “agreed-upon way.” Selling the vision vs. micromanaging; building champions of consistency. Using cadence (e.g., EOS Level 10) to keep outcomes front-and-center. Personal habit hacks: accountability, tiny disciplines, and rewards. When habits become liabilities—recognizing and retiring outdated routines. Mission → buy-in → habits → outcomes: aligning people systems like AV systems. Connect with Brian ShanksEmail: brianshanks@txstate.edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shanks-06428b36/Connect with Annie FosterEmail: afoster@wlu.edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankneefoster/ Connect with Steve Greenblatthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stevegreenblatt/https://controlconcepts.nethttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-programmer/id1561530169https://www.avnation.tv/a-state-of-control/Join the ConversationJump into the monthly thread: https://community.hetma.orgShow Links:HETMA Community: https://community.hetma.orgHigher Ed AV Media: https://higheredav.comThis show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media - www.higheredav.comFeedback: We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a message on the HETMA Community or email any of the hosts and guests directly. Want to be featured in a future episode? Let us know—your voice matters.
In this August edition of This Month in Higher Ed AV, host Ryan Gray is joined by Andy Vogel (The Ohio State University), Ann Kelly (UCLA), and Tim Neviska (Kenyon College) for a lively, insightful, and layered conversation about three timely pieces shaping the AV/IT landscape in higher education.The panel opens with a discussion of “The Cloud Revolution in Pro AV: Why the Future is Software-Defined” by Richard Jonker, Vice President at NETGEAR Enterprise. The group digs into the implications of cloud-managed AV systems, the role of interoperability, and whether higher ed AV teams are ready—or willing—to give up traditional notions of control.Read the article ➝ https://www.avnetwork.com/news/the-cloud-revolution-in-pro-av-why-the-future-is-software-definedNext, Andy shares his own article, “Why Validating AI Matters”, kicking off his new column for Higher Ed AV Media. He walks the group through real-world examples of testing AI tools (including to learn bass guitar), and the panel discusses how institutions are managing AI implementation—from fluency courses to faculty debates about academic integrity.Read the article ➝https://higheredav.com/ai-insights-with-andy-why-validating-ai-matters/Finally, the group explores Tim’s personal essay “My Take: InfoComm 2019 to 2025,” which compares his first InfoComm experience to his recent return six years later. The conversation becomes a powerful reflection on professional visibility, industry inclusion, and the collective strength of higher ed voices in a rapidly changing AV world.Read the article ➝https://higheredav.com/my-take-infocomm-2019-to-2025/If you want to hear how AV/IT trends meet real campus practice—and what it means to belong in this space—this is the episode for you.Topics DiscussedCloud-managed AV systems and institutional readinessInteroperability vs. proprietary ecosystemsHigher ed AV’s evolving relationship with enterprise ITAI validation techniques in learning and operationsFaculty perspectives on generative AICritical thinking and student use of AIInfoComm 2019 vs. 2025: personal growth and industry changeHETMA’s role in raising higher ed’s profileSmall institutions and collective influenceThe emotional and strategic value of showing upGuests:Andy VogelEmail: communications@hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-vogelAnn KellyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annkelly9/Tim NeviskaEmail: membership@hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-neviska-875b331b/Host:Ryan GrayLinkedIn: Email: ryan@higheredav.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/Show Links:HETMA Community: https://community.hetma.orgHigher Ed AV Media: https://higheredav.comThis show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media - www.higheredav.comFeedback:We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a message on the HETMA Community or email any of the hosts and guests directly. Want to be featured in a future episode? Let us know—your voice matters.
In this August installment of HETMA Presents… Chair to Chair, Board Chair Erin Maher-Moran sits down with Membership Chair Tim Neviska of Kenyon College for an honest and uplifting conversation about professional growth, connection, and finding your place in higher ed AV. What starts as a chat about committee work quickly turns into a deeply relatable story about career pivots, introversion, and the quiet power of being seen.Tim shares how he stumbled into AV from a DJ career, built a reputation as the go-to person at Kenyon College, and found his professional tribe in HETMA. The conversation is full of useful advice for anyone wondering how to get more involved—whether you’re shy, new to the industry, or just feeling unsure of where to start. From smart onboarding strategies to tales of budget-savvy ingenuity, Tim models what it looks like to lead with humility and impact.Whether you’re one of HETMA’s 3,000+ members or still on the fence about joining, this episode will remind you that real growth doesn’t happen in isolation—and that sometimes, all it takes is reaching out to someone who “gets it.”Topics DiscussedHow Tim first discovered HETMA through AVNation’s Rave LaunchServing as the go-to AV lead at a small liberal arts collegeBecoming a recognizable campus presence through live event supportHETMA’s unique free-to-join model and its impact on inclusionWhat the Membership Chair actually does (beyond counting heads)The importance of onboarding and lowering barriers for new membersWhy professional relationships are built one small ask at a timeHow to grow your network even if you’re introvertedThe value of smaller events like roadshows before InfoCommTips for getting involved, staying connected, and paying it forwardTim NeviskaMembership Chair, HETMASenior Audiovisual Solutions Manager, Kenyon College📧 Email: membership@hetma.org🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-neviskaJoin the ConversationWe want to hear from you! Share your reflections, questions, or connection stories in the HETMA community at community.hetma.org. Whether you’re new to the space or a long-time member, your voice matters—and this is the month to merge lanes and grow together.
In this second installment of HETMA Presents… The Road to 10K, host Ryan Gray is joined by three incredible guests—Tim Albright (AVNation), Britt Yenser (Northampton Community College), and Chris Dieterich (Biamp)—to explore August’s theme: Merging Lanes – Connect to Grow. The conversation is personal, practical, and full of insight, emphasizing that growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Whether you’re building a network, stepping into mentorship, or learning to show up for others in meaningful ways, this episode will give you both encouragement and a push.The guests share honest reflections about introversion, career shifts, and how networking and mentorship have shaped their journeys. They also offer actionable advice for anyone looking to get more involved, connect more deeply, or help others rise. From small steps to big jumps, this is a conversation about growing yourself by growing with others.Guest Contact Info:Tim AlbrightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tdalbright/Email: tim@avnation.tvWebsite: https://avnation.tvBritt YenserLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-yenser/X (Twitter): https://x.com/brAVe_britt_BlueSky: https://blueskydirectory.com/profiles/bravebritt.bsky.socialChris DieterichLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-dieterich-cts-cqd-22843190/Topics DiscussedThe power of building a professional network before you “need” itHow introverts can thrive in public roles and community spacesBritt’s strategy for authentic connection via social mediaWhy mentorship is broader than your job title or experience levelChris’s leap from higher ed to industry—and what he’s learning alreadyDelegation as a form of trust and a way to help others growRepresentation, inclusion, and creating space for others to be seenWhy being genuine doesn’t require full transparencyThe role of books and asynchronous mentors in personal growthPractical advice for expanding your network with intentionJoin the conversation and grow with us—visit community.hetma.org to connect with fellow members, share your takeaways, or ask follow-up questions to today’s guests. The Road to 10K continues with monthly themes, powerful discussions, and a community that shows up.This show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media, visit us at www.higheredav.com for more great content.Connect with Ryan:Ryan@higheredav.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
This debut episode of This Month in Higher Ed AV kicks off a monthly panel discussion reviewing key content posted to Higher Ed AV Media. Host Ryan Gray is joined by Jon Gunzel of John A. Logan College, Renee Benson of Sony Professional Display Solutions, and Erin Maher-Moran, Chair of HETMA from Johns Hopkins University. Together, they explore major trends and insights shaping the higher ed AV landscape, all grounded in fresh articles and columns.The discussion dives into HETMA’s Road to 10K membership growth campaign, which aims to expand global engagement through community initiatives and professional development. The panel also breaks down Sony’s partnership with LiquidView and its innovative use of Pro Bravia displays to create virtual windows, opening possibilities for immersive learning and wellness spaces. Finally, the episode examines DSPs in the Classroom and how practical audio design principles can dramatically improve learning experiences. Listeners will hear industry perspectives, implementation ideas, and authentic reflections on how these topics connect to AV’s role in higher education.https://higheredav.com/breaking-news-hetma-announces-road-to-10k/https://higheredav.com/sonys-pro-bravia-displays-help-liquidview-turn-blank-walls-into-realistic-windows-to-the-worldsony-at-infocomm-2025-tracking-the-future-of-lecture-capture-sony/https://higheredav.com/dsps-in-the-classroom-under-the-hood-of-smarter-sound-sound-perspectives/Guest Contacts:Jon Gunzel – jonathan.gunzel@jalc.edu, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgunzel89/Renee Benson – renee.benson@sony.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneebenson/Erin Maher-Moran – https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-maher-moran/Topics DiscussedLaunch of This Month in Higher Ed AV as a monthly seriesOverview of HETMA’s Road to 10K membership campaign and six strategic pillarsCommunity-building approaches for higher ed AV professionalsSony Pro Bravia displays powering LiquidView virtual windowsApplications of virtual windows in education and wellness spacesBack-to-basics DSP best practices from Teddy Murphy’s Sound Perspectives columnAudio quality as a foundation for hybrid learning and clear communicationPanel perspectives from higher ed, manufacturing, and association leadershipUpcoming Higher Ed AV Media content, including Chair to Chair and new AI-focused columnsReflections on how AV professionals can leverage industry content for growthJoin the conversation and connect with the community at community.hetma.org.HETMA Presents... is a production of Higher Ed AV Media. Check out all our content at higheredav.com
In this inaugural installment of HETMA Presents… Chair to Chair, host Erin Maher-Moran, Chair of the HETMA Board of Directors, sits down with Chris Kelly of Creighton University and Advisory Boards Chair of HETMA. The conversation dives into Chris’s unique journey from social work and counseling into higher education technology, exploring how his early experiences shaped his leadership style and passion for building community.Listeners will hear how advisory boards create meaningful connections between manufacturers and higher education institutions, why involvement is open to everyone—from entry-level techs to campus leaders—and how these conversations advance HETMA’s mission of innovation and collaboration. Chris also shares insights on leadership, personal growth, and finding your “true north” while reflecting on how higher ed technology impacts students, faculty, and the future of learning.Erin introduces Chair to Chair and its mission to spotlight HETMA committee leadersChris Kelly’s journey from social work into IT and AV technologyThe shift from programming frustration to embracing technology’s broader potentialSurprises and learning curves entering higher education AVThe purpose and structure of HETMA advisory boardsAdvisory boards as a platform for collaboration with manufacturers and peersLeadership lessons drawn from social work and campus IT experiencesPersonal mission, future vision, and the value of lifelong learningAdvice for those seeking their own “true north” in higher ed technology careersWhy every professional, regardless of role, benefits from participating in HETMA programsJoin the conversation at community.hetma.org and subscribe to HETMA Presents… wherever you get podcasts or watch on YouTube.HETMA Presents... is a production of Higher Ed AV Media, learn more a higheredav.com
In the premiere episode of HETMA Presents, the leadership team kicks off the “Road to 10K” initiative with a candid, unscripted conversation about growth, purpose, and what success really looks like for the HETMA community. Host Ryan Gray is joined by Joe Way, BC Hatchett, and Troy Powers to explore the launch of HETMA’s new themed year—one focused not on sales or metrics, but on authentic personal and professional development across the higher ed AV vertical.This month’s theme, “True North: The Future of You,” asks members to reflect on their mission, their goals, and the values that guide their decisions. The group discusses the reasons behind the year-long framework, how engagement—not just membership—is the real target, and why doing the work themselves as volunteers matters deeply to the organization’s identity.Topics DiscussedThe origin and purpose of the “Road to 10K” initiativeHow the initiative represents a return to HETMA’s founding valuesThe difference between member count and active engagementMonthly themes as a structure for personal and community growthWhy AV isn’t the headline—and why that’s intentionalThe role of volunteerism in leadership developmentBuilding sustainable events and operational templatesCreating belonging through participation and shared workWhat “True North” means to each leaderHopes for how the community will grow by June 2026Continue the conversation at community.hetma.org