AV/IT Amplifier

What happens when a former dinosaur-hunting integrator turns higher ed AV hero? In this episode, Ryan reconnects with Jon Hamilton — a man whose AV origin story begins in the ’80s and who now serves as a trusted fixture in the higher ed AV landscape.

From aggressive integrator days to nurturing secret-service-style classroom support, Jon shares hard-won insights, hilarious metaphors, and a grounded philosophy on service, leadership, and staying calm when tech — or people — break down.

Jon’s AV career evolution from thermal fax machines to Emory MedThe “giver” mindset and being proud of being the solid guyW...

Chris Kelly returns for Part 2! Ryan and Chris pick up where they left off, diving into everything from AV tech spaces that feel like “home” to the personal and professional journeys that shape us. Chris shares insight into his transition from mental health counseling to IT, how he approaches major life decisions, and why taking a pay cut for the right opportunity can be life-changing.

The conversation also explores the realities of introversion in people-heavy fields, the art of self-care at conferences like InfoComm, and the often unseen resilience behind career pivots. Plus, Chris reveals his unique bucket list...

We roll past 100 with momentum! Ryan Gray interviews Chris Kelly, a senior IT support specialist at Creighton University. Chris shares his unique journey from social work to the AV and IT field, emphasizing the importance of human interaction in technology. The discussion explores the intersection of psychology and technology, the value of advisory boards in the AV community, and how individuals can get involved in these initiatives. Chris's insights highlight the significance of continuous learning and the human element in technology support.

Chris transitioned from social work to IT and AV due to burnout.He emphasizes the importance...

In Part 2 of the AV/IT Amplifier’s 100th episode celebration, Ryan is joined by an expanding cast of brilliant and chaotic friends from higher ed and beyond—including Robyn Bryce, Jon Hamilton, Tom Aldridge, Lyle Waldron, and Britt Yenser.

What starts as a continuation of gratitude and reflection quickly evolves into a deeply honest conversation about amplifying unheard voices, leading through constant change, and finding resilience in uncertain times. Along the way, listeners are treated to improvised wisdom, pro-wrestling aspirations, and the occasional philosophical detour into the ethi...

Welcome to a very special 100th episode of the AV/IT Amplifier!

What started as a casual invite to past guests turned into an unscripted, heartwarming, and hilariously chaotic reunion of AV/IT voices from across higher ed. Ryan is joined by Adrian Doughty, Robyn Bryce, Jon Hamilton, and Evan Gray in this first of a two-part celebration. From the origins of the show’s three-digit numbering scheme to deep dives into wisdom vs. knowledge, mentorship, and the challenges of modern leadership—this episode captures the soul of what the podcast has always been about: curiosity, connection, and some...

We're back with week 2! Ryan Gray and Patrick Angielczyk discuss the significance of trade shows in the AV industry, the importance of lifelong learning, and the value of mentorship. Patrick shares his experiences at ISE, his passion for music and lean manufacturing, and his pride in mentoring others in the AV field. They also explore networking opportunities and the role of the Rising Professionals Council in career development.
Trade shows like ISE are crucial for networking and learning.Lifelong learning is essential in the AV industry.Mentorship can take many forms and doesn't have to be formal.The worst...

In this episode of the AV/IT Amplifier, Ryan Gray interviews Patrick Angielczyk, an AV Technologist at Mohawk College. They discuss the importance of roadshows in the AV community, the value of volunteering, and the opportunities for networking and learning at industry events. Patrick shares his journey into the AV field, the significance of certifications, and how to get involved with the Rising Professionals Council. The conversation emphasizes the sense of community within the AV industry and the continuous learning opportunities available.
TakeawaysRoadshows are essential for networking and sharing knowledge in the AV community.Volunteering helps give back to...

We're back for week 2 with Adrian Doughty.  He and Ryan discuss the importance of human connection in the tech industry. Adrian shares his approach to connecting with customers, emphasizing the need to talk with people rather than at them. They explore themes of introversion and extroversion, personal interests in cooking and travel, and philosophical views on humanity and aging. The conversation wraps up with Adrian's thoughts on positivity and his aspirations for the future.

Talk with people, not to people, to build connections.Empathy is key in understanding customer needs.Human connection is essential in a crowded trade s...

This week Ryan Gray interviews Adrian Doughty, the Director of Sales at Nureva, who shares his unique journey into the AV industry, the evolution of audio technology, and the importance of flexibility in modern learning environments. Adrian discusses Nureva's innovative approach to audio solutions, particularly in higher education and corporate settings, and highlights the company's growth and future plans, including exciting new product developments. The discussion also touches on the integration of AI in education and the significance of user feedback in shaping technology solutions.



Adrian Doughty has a diverse background in AV and IT.Nureva...

The Gray Matter Moment is back!  Ryan discusses his experience with the Authentic Leadership Experience program, focusing on self-awareness, navigating a VUCA world, understanding biases, and the importance of clear communication. He shares insights from his leadership training and the creative presentations that emerged from it, emphasizing personal growth and the value of diverse expression in leadership.



The episode finishes with an absolute drop the mic video!




The Authentic Leadership Experience involved diverse participants from various college departments.Self-awareness is often overestimated by individuals, highlighting the need for external feedback.VUCA s...

We're back for week 2 with Troy Powers!  We take a deep dive and explore a variety of topics ranging from personal dynamics of introversion and extroversion to the importance of higher education and the value of documenting history. Troy shares insights into his personal style, love for baseball, and his passion for woodworking, while also discussing the significance of community engagement and upcoming events. The dialogue is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful reflections on education and societal values.



Troy Powers runs the support team for Central IT at Northwestern University.He identifies as more i...

This week, host Ryan Gray speaks with Troy Powers, the new vice chair of HETMA, about his transition into this leadership role, the importance of balancing work and volunteer opportunities, and the mission of higher education. They discuss the need for global collaboration within the organization and the challenges of maintaining engagement and consistency in leadership roles. Troy emphasizes the importance of new voices in the community and the value of education in solving societal issues.
Troy Powers is the new vice chair of HETMA.Balancing work and volunteer opportunities is crucial for personal fulfillment.The mission of higher...

Ryan Gray discusses the recent ISE event in Barcelona with first-time attendees Dustin Myers and Troy Powers. They share their experiences, insights on the scale of the event, the value of attending, and the unique conversations that took place. The discussion also touches on the challenges of securing funding for international travel and the future of HETMA at ISE, emphasizing the potential for growth and networking opportunities in the global AV community. In this conversation, Troy Powers, Dustin Myers, and Ryan Gray discuss the growth and future of HETMA, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, empowerment, and the transition to...

Take a walk with Ryan around the HETMA Arizona Roadshow.  Recorded 1/21/2025 at Mesa Community College.


Connect with Ryan: 
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
ryan@higheredav.com  

Follow the Show:
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Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdechter/  

Please rate and review the show wherever you get your podcasts, feedback is very welcome and we look forward to hearing from you!

We're back for week 2!  Ryan Gray and Dr. Kellie Campbell explore various themes surrounding technology, leadership, and personal growth. Dr. Campbell shares her journey into the IT and AV world, emphasizing the importance of people-centric technology and the need for self-care as an extroverted leader. They discuss navigating difficult conversations, community engagement, and the significance of vulnerability in leadership. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal growth and the challenges of being human in today's world.



Dr. Campbell's journey into IT began unexpectedly through AV work.The importance of connecting technology with people and their needs.S...

Ryan Gray interviews Kellie Campbell, the Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Technology for the Vermont State College System. They discuss the evolving role of CIOs in higher education, emphasizing the importance of leadership, empathy, and relationship-building in navigating change and transformation within IT departments. Kellie shares her experiences in consolidating IT services across multiple institutions, the challenges faced during this process, and the strategies employed to maintain staff and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. The conversation highlights the significance of being values-driven and student-focused in the ever-changing landscape of higher education.



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We ring in the new year on the first day of 2025 with a look back at some memorable moments from 2024.  We revisit some gems from:

Britt Yenser
Chris Hewitt
Ann Kelly
Tim Albright
Craig Underwood and
Kameesha Jones

Enjoy these clips and look forward to all new epiodes dropping every Wednesday in 2025!

A Merry Christmas to all who celebrate!  This week we bring you some voices from the past year of the show and their answer to the common question, "What is a question you wish people would ask you but no one ever does?"  There's some great similarities and differences in how people respond but theres alot of wisdom to be found as well!  

You'll be hearing from:

Tyran Payne
Britt Yenser
Tim Albright
Carrie Garcia
Kameesha Jones
Jordan Scales
Brittney Grant
Adaline Tatum
Samantha Powell
Lisle Waldron

We're back for week 2 and brothers Ryan and Evan Gray explore the significance of building relationships in education, the role of mentorship, and the balance between work and personal life. Evan shares his experiences in fostering connections among students and emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships over time. He reflects on his own journey in higher education and how it has shaped his perspective on success and personal growth. The discussion also touches on the value of having a supportive partner in navigating life's challenges. In this engaging conversation, Evan and Ryan explore various themes including meaningful family traditions, the...

In this episode of the AV/IT Amplifier, host Ryan Gray speaks with Evan Gray about the importance of peer mentoring in higher education, particularly in online learning environments. Evan shares his journey in developing the Champs Peer Mentoring program at the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), emphasizing the need for students to feel a sense of belonging and connection. The conversation covers the evolution of the mentoring program, strategies for recruiting and training mentors, and the future aspirations for enhancing student engagement and support.
Peer mentoring is crucial for student success in online education.Building relationships among...

We're back with part 2 of this conversation with Dr. Punya Mishra.  We explore the multifaceted relationship between AI, ethics, education, and human interaction. The discussion explores the authenticity of AI, the ethical implications of its use, the biases inherent in AI systems, and the potential for AI to transform education. Dr. Mishra emphasizes the need for thoughtful regulation and the importance of being present in teaching, while also encouraging educators to experiment with AI as a tool for enhancing learning.

AI's authenticity can be questioned based on its training.The ethical debate around AI is often one-sided.Regulation c...

This week we bring you the first half of a conversation with Dr. Punya Mishra recorded for the Yavapai College WIN Coalition Speaker Series.  Dr. Mishra discusses the intersection of technology, learning, and design, focusing on the TPAC framework and its relevance in today's educational landscape. He explores the implications of AI as a cognitive partner in education, the societal impact of emerging technologies, and the importance of self-awareness and digital literacy in navigating a post-factual world. The discussion emphasizes the role of educators in fostering critical thinking and understanding the complexities of AI and its influence on human interaction.

Back for week 2, Ryan Gray and Samantha Powell explore the themes of advocacy, vulnerability, self-care, and the importance of setting boundaries. Samantha shares her experiences in the industry, her love for food, and her belief in the inherent goodness of people. The discussion emphasizes the significance of being genuine and open in relationships, as well as the need for self-care in order to effectively support others.

Advocacy is about representing the interests of others.Vulnerability allows for deeper connections in conversations.Setting boundaries is essential for self-care.Being an ambivert means balancing social energy and personal time.Exploring...

In this episode of the AVIT Amplifier, host Ryan Gray speaks with Samantha Powell, the Manager of Industry Advocacy at AVIXA. They discuss Samantha's role in advocating for the AV industry, the importance of Infocomm, and the challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving AV technology landscape. Samantha shares insights on content creation, the size of the AV industry, and the need for new voices and perspectives to drive innovation. The conversation also highlights the offerings of AVIXA.tv and its role in educating and engaging the AV community.



Advocacy is crucial for representing the AV...

Ryan welcomes back Adeline Tatum for week 2 recorded live at Educause 2024.  They explore a variety of themes including cultural experiences, mentorship, personal growth, and philosophical views on good and evil. Adeline shares her journey from Honduras to the United States, discussing the cultural shocks she faced and her reflections on privilege and community. The discussion also delves into the importance of mentorship, the nuances of human intentions, and the significance of food and traditions in shaping identity. Adeline's insights on career choices and her aspirations for the future provide a thoughtful conclusion to the conversation.  And... don't miss a special ap...

This week Ryan welcomes Adaline Tatum, the AV/IT Training Coordinator at UCLA, who is on the verge of completing her doctorate. They discuss her dissertation focused on fostering critical reflection in leadership to include marginalized voices, her experiences at the EDUCAUSE conference, and the integration of technology and pedagogy in higher education. Adeline shares insights on supporting faculty, the challenges of qualitative research, and offers advice for smaller institutions on how to enhance faculty support without dedicated funding.


Adeline is completing her doctorate in educational leadership.Her dissertation focuses on including marginalized voices in decision-making.Qualitative...

Brittney Grant is back for week two to explore the multifaceted world of audio-visual work, personal growth, and the unexpected paths that lead to fulfilling careers. Brittany shares her experiences as an AV specialist, her journey through introversion and extroversion, and how a life-changing event propelled her into a new career. She also delves into her newfound passion for baking, the influence of social media on culinary pursuits, and a lighthearted discussion about fears and phobias. In this engaging conversation, Ryan Gray and Brittney Grant explore a variety of themes ranging from unexpected encounters with nature to the complexities of...

This week Ryan welcomes Brittney Grant of Aims Community College, who shares her experiences in both her full-time role and her passion as an assistant stage manager. They discuss the differences between community colleges and universities, the challenges of supporting multiple campuses, and the adrenaline rush of live events. Brittany also talks about her involvement in construction processes for new buildings, the importance of mentorship, and the value of networking in the higher education tech community. The conversation highlights the significance of learning from past projects and being open to new possibilities in future endeavors.


Community colleges...

Iffat is back for week 2 and dives into a bunch of topics including career journeys, the significance of interpersonal relationships in the workplace, the dynamics of introversion and extroversion, and the impact of music on their lives. Iffat shares her experiences from her first job at an airport to her current role in pre-sales and AV, emphasizing the importance of people over content in work. They also discuss their favorite musicians and the essence of live performances, concluding with reflections on human nature and the importance of understanding others.



Takeaways
Work is not real life...

Ryan speaks with Iffat Chaudhry, a prominent figure in the AV industry known for her advocacy in diversity, equity, and inclusion. They discuss the importance of shifting perspectives from negativity to proactive solutions through the 'What If?' concept. Iffat emphasizes the power of storytelling in advocacy, the significance of authenticity in communication, and the need for safe spaces for open conversations. They also explore the emotional weight of hearing others' stories and the importance of listening and being present. Looking ahead, Iffat expresses hope for the AV industry, highlighting the essential role of people and diversity in driving success.<...

We welcome back Lisle for week 2 and explore the intersection of technology, education, and human connection. Lislle shares his experiences as a multimedia and audio-visual manager, emphasizing the importance of creating magical user experiences in educational settings. They discuss the impact of technology on learning, Lisle's passion for aviation, and his philosophical views on human nature. The conversation also touches on the significance of genuine connections and the soundtrack of life, culminating in Lisle's memorable sign-off inspired by a childhood favorite.



Takeaways
Creating magical user experiences is at the core of Lisle's work.Technology should...

In today's conversation, Ryan Gray interviews Lisle Waldron, the multimedia and audio visual services manager for the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Lyle shares his journey into the AV field, discussing the challenges and cultural expectations he faces in higher education. He reflects on the importance of representation in the AV industry and the unique challenges of working in a Caribbean context. The discussion highlights Lisle's passion for service, his commitment to education, and his aspirations for the future.

Keywords
AV, multimedia, higher education, technology, Caribbean, audio visual services, education technology, university

Notes
Lisle...

We're back for week 2 with Dr. Lisa Rhine, the president of Yavapai College.  She discusses topics such as leadership, performance evaluation, introversion vs extroversion, gratitude, and the importance of meeting students' basic needs. She emphasizes the need for educators to support the whole person and provide second chances. Dr. Rhine also shares personal anecdotes about her first job, her favorite sandwich, and her belief in the inherent goodness of people.



Keywords
leadership, performance evaluation, introversion, extroversion, gratitude, basic needs, second chances

TakeawaysLeadership should be focused on personal growth and development, rather than just p...

This week Ryan welcomes his own President! Dr. Lisa Rhine, President of Yavapai College, discusses the challenges and rewards of being a college president and the importance of technology in higher education. She emphasizes the need for college leaders to stay on the cutting edge of technology and create a culture of innovation and risk-taking. Dr. Rhine also highlights the role of technology professionals in driving change and improving the student experience. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the Center for Learning and Innovation at Yavapai College and the importance of creating student-centric spaces. Keywords college president, technology, higher...

We're back for week 2 with Jordan Scales, live from the Arizona Audio Video expo.  We chat with Jordan about his role as an education liaison and his thoughts on various topics. We discuss the upcoming release of the new DMPS, the challenges of the supply chain crisis, and the importance of having good energy in relationships. Jordan shares his perspective on introversion, the impact of COVID-19 on his job, and his changing views on religion. He also reveals his favorite sandwich and his contact information for those interested in reaching out to him.



Keywords Crestron, education, D...

Recorded live at the Arizona Audio Video Expo, we visit with Jordan Scales, an AV nerd and technologist who works for Crestron Electronics. They discuss the importance of building relationships in the AV industry, particularly in the education sector. Jordan emphasizes the need for trust, honesty, and genuine care for customers. They also talk about the role of a representative in being an ally to customers and helping them succeed. Jordan shares his approach to problem-solving and providing support, which has led to increased sales and customer satisfaction. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of training and...

In this installment of the Gray Matter Moment, Ryan discusses the concept of known unknowns and the importance of acknowledging and valuing the work that is not directly seen. He draws parallels to the concept of dark matter in the universe, where there is something causing gravity that cannot be seen but its effects can be observed. Ryan emphasizes the need for leaders and managers to recognize and appreciate the known unknowns, as it contributes to the success of the team and organization. He also highlights the negative consequences of not valuing the unseen work, such as creating a zero-sum...

We're back with week 2 with Kameesha Jones, audio visual project manager and audio engineer. They discuss Kameesha's active presence on Twitter and her commitment to authenticity. Kameesha shares that she uses social media as a way to be her true self and connect with others. We also talk about Kameesha's introverted nature and how she has learned to navigate social situations. We touch on topics such as customer service, therapy, and the importance of reflection. The conversation ends with Kameesha sharing her favorite sandwich and her drop the mic sign-off phrase.

Keywords

Twitter, authenticity, introversion, social...

We're back in the remote studio with an interview of Kameesha Jones, an audiovisual project manager for Florida International University and an audio engineer for the Miami Heat. They discuss Kameesha's work with the Miami Heat, her role as an AV project manager, and her new position as the DEI chair for HETMA. Kameesha shares her experiences working in the AV industry, the challenges she faces, and her goals for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field. She emphasizes the importance of representation, creating safe spaces, and providing training and resources for DEI initiatives.

Keywords

...

Recorded at InfoComm 2024, Ryan Gray interviews Justin Dawson, a tech influencer and advocate for autism awareness. They discuss Justin's journey from Ireland to Las Vegas, his role as a tech influencer, and his experiences as a parent of an autistic child. Justin also shares his travel recommendations for Las Vegas and highlights the importance of mental health awareness.

Takeaways
Justin Dawson is a tech influencer and advocate for autism awareness.He shares his journey from Ireland to Las Vegas and the opportunities he has received as a tech influencer.Justin emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness...