AV/IT Amplifier

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.Self-care is crucial for extroverted leaders to avoid burnout.Navigating difficult conversations is essential for community building.Change starts small and can grow rapidly from local engagement.Vulnerability is a key value in leadership and personal growth.It's okay to not have everything figured out; self-reflection is important.Community engagement can lead to meaningful change.Starting small can help in achieving larger goals, like running.Empathy and understanding are vital in leadership roles.Keywords AV technology, leadership, self-care, community engagement, extroversion, personal growth, higher education, technology solutions, empathy, vulnerabilityConnect with Kellie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kellie-b-campbell-edd-75a83253/KCampbell@vsc.eduConnect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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.The role of a CIO has evolved to focus on leadership and relationships.Empathy is crucial in navigating change and supporting teams.Involving staff in the vision fosters buy-in and collaboration.Balancing technology understanding with leadership is essential.Continuous improvement is key to successful IT transformation.Building a strong team culture enhances institutional effectiveness.Change management requires transparency and trust.A strategic plan helps prioritize time and resources effectively.Good is often enough while striving for greatness.Connecting technology to student success is a primary goal.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation05:17 Balancing Technology and Leadership10:45 Finding Balance in Leadership16:25 Transforming IT in Higher Education24:13 Navigating Change and Resistance29:50 Values-Driven Leadership and Continuous ImprovementConnect with Kellie:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kellie-b-campbell-edd-75a83253/KCampbell@vsc.eduConnect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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 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 YenserChris HewittAnn KellyTim AlbrightCraig Underwood andKameesha JonesEnjoy 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 PayneBritt YenserTim AlbrightCarrie GarciaKameesha JonesJordan ScalesBrittney GrantAdaline TatumSamantha PowellLisle WaldronEveryone hang in there, go easy and we'll be back next week!

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 importance of personal connections, and the courage to step out of one's comfort zone. They share insights on sports betting, the challenges of remote work, and the value of learning new skills. Evan emphasizes the significance of being intentional about social interactions and offers practical advice for connecting with others in a remote work environment. The discussion culminates in a powerful reminder to take risks and embrace new experiences.TakeawaysBuilding relationships is essential for success in education.Mentorship plays a crucial role in student success.Nurturing relationships requires time and effort.Delayed gratification is a key aspect of education.People generally enter the world with good intentions.Having a supportive community is vital for personal growth.Work-life integration enhances overall well-being.Athletics can foster teamwork and camaraderie.A strong partnership can help navigate life's challenges.Life experiences shape our perspectives on relationships. Physical gifts are meaningful, but experiences matter more.Family traditions can be unique and cherished, like turkey tacos.Building skills takes time and effort, especially for homeowners.Sports betting can be fun, but always do your research.Weather significantly impacts football performance and betting.Remote work requires intentionality in social interactions.Connecting with others is vital for personal growth.Experience in online education is invaluable for helping students.Courage is essential for personal and professional success.Taking risks can lead to unexpected opportunities.Keywordsrelationships, education, mentorship, online learning, work-life balance, personal growth, student success, community, college experience, family, family traditions, meaningful gifts, turkey tacos, building skills, sports betting, remote work, personal connections, online education, courage, self-improvementConnect with Evan:evan.gray@uagc.eduhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/grayevan/Check out CHAMPS Peer Mentoring:https://www.uagc.edu/student-experience/peer-mentoringConnect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 students fosters a sense of belonging.Data-driven approaches are essential for program development and funding.Creating a community is more effective than one-on-one connections.Understanding student demographics helps tailor support programs.Authenticity in interactions encourages open communication among students.Utilizing technology can enhance student engagement and connection.Mentoring programs can significantly impact retention and graduation rates.Continuous improvement and adaptation are necessary in higher education.Collaboration and sharing best practices among institutions can lead to better outcomes.Sound Bites"Make them tell you no, and put them to a decision.""This is the judgment-free zone for students.""You need to know your students.""It's a zigzag journey, never linear.""We're the relationship center for students.""We have a mobile app coming out for our students."Keywordspeer mentoring, online education, student success, higher education, sense of belonging, UAGC, mentoring program, student engagement, relationship building, adult learnersConnect with Evan:evan.gray@uagc.eduhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/grayevan/Check out CHAMPS Peer Mentoring:https://www.uagc.edu/student-experience/peer-mentoringConnect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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 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 can coexist with innovation in AI.Bias in AI can be exacerbated as models improve.Education must adapt to the changing landscape of technology.AI can serve as a partner in the learning process.Transforming education is a complex challenge.AI's role in education should focus on enhancing understanding.The future of AI will involve deeper human interaction.Educators should experiment with AI to discover its potential.Sound Bites"You won't know if I'm AI.""The world we live in is crazy right now.""There is a role for regulation in this space.""Education is a complex, contested space.""Play with AI, try different things.""We need to be present in our teaching."About Dr. Mishra:https://asu.elsevierpure.com/en/persons/punya-mishrahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/punyamishra/https://punyamishra.comConnect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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.Dr. Mishra emphasizes the importance of the TPAC framework in integrating technology into education.AI should be viewed as a cognitive partner rather than a definitive source of truth.Understanding cognitive biases is crucial in the age of AI.The rise of AI necessitates a corresponding rise in human intelligence and self-awareness.Educators must prepare students for the complexities of a digitally influenced world.AI's generative nature can create authentic-looking content, raising questions about authorship.The societal impact of AI includes potential manipulation and misinformation.Human interaction is essential in education, even in a digital age.Digital literacy should focus on understanding our own minds and biases.The future of education will be shaped by how we adapt to and understand AI.Keywords: AI, education, TPAC framework, digital literacy, cognitive partner, societal impact, human interaction, self-awareness, educators, technology"How do we know what we know?""We live in a post-factual world.""Learning is hard; it's a grind."About Dr. Mishra:https://asu.elsevierpure.com/en/persons/punya-mishrahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/punyamishra/https://punyamishra.comConnect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 local cuisines enhances travel experiences.People are generally good and well-intentioned.Asking 'How can I help you?' can foster genuine connections.Self-care is crucial for being able to help others.Sharing personal experiences can encourage vulnerability in others.Surrounding yourself with positive people promotes personal growth.advocacy, vulnerability, self-care, ambivert, food, personal growth, relationships, kindness, communication, boundariesConnect with Sam:spowell@avixa.orghttps://x.com/SamanthaDPowellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-powell-86507b27/Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 industry and its interests.The AV industry is experiencing rapid changes, making long-term predictions challenging.Infocomm plays a significant role in AVIXA's strategy and content creation.Content creation involves balancing audience needs with emerging topics.The AV industry is larger than many realize, encompassing various sectors.New voices and perspectives are essential for the future of the AV industry.Disruption is necessary for growth and innovation in the AV space.AVIXA.tv offers a wealth of content for AV professionals.Engagement with the community is vital for continuous learning and improvement.KeywordsAVIXA, AV industry, technology, Infocomm, content creation, advocacy, future of AV, industry insights, Samantha Powell, AV technologyConnect with Sam:spowell@avixa.orghttps://x.com/SamanthaDPowellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-powell-86507b27/Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 apprearance by Hannah Kindree!Adeline emphasizes the importance of integrating action with curriculum in education.Cultural experiences shape our perceptions and interactions with others.Mentorship involves asking the right questions to understand mentees' goals.People often judge intentions without understanding the context.Self-reflection is crucial in understanding biases and assumptions.Food and traditions play a significant role in cultural identity.Adeline's journey highlights the challenges of being a minority in America.Building relationships is key to personal and professional success.Adeline's choice to be an educator stemmed from a desire to support others.The conversation encourages taking risks and overcoming fears.Connect with Adaline:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adaline-m-tatum-a12b061a3/https://x.com/AdalineTatum6Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 research requires staying objective and avoiding personal bias.EDUCAUSE is a platform for sharing research and learning in higher education.Adeline emphasizes the importance of networking for doctoral candidates.She expresses disappointment in the EDUCAUSE conference's lack of engagement this year.Adeline advocates for collaboration between instructional designers and faculty.She believes in the significance of making faculty feel supported.Customer service skills are crucial for student workers in educational settings.Adeline encourages smaller institutions to seek volunteer support for faculty training.Connect with Adaline:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adaline-m-tatum-a12b061a3/https://x.com/AdalineTatum6Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 human relationships. They discuss the nature of good and evil, the impact of reality shows on perceptions, and personal reflections on life experiences, including a nostalgic look back at hot air balloon camp. Brittany shares her insights on navigating relationships with optimism while acknowledging the unpredictability of human behavior.TakeawaysBrittney identifies as both an introvert and extrovert.Taking breaks is essential for success in collaborative environments.A life-changing event can lead to unexpected opportunities.Brittney's mentor played a crucial role in her career transition.Baking offers a sense of routine and creativity for Brittney.Social media allows for sharing culinary creations with others.Brittany enjoys experimenting with recipes, despite being more of a cook than a baker.The conversation highlights the importance of having the right tools for any task.Fears can be irrational, as seen in Brittany's friends' fear of birds.Humor can be found in discussing personal fears and experiences. Unexpected encounters with nature can be both humorous and alarming.Changing perspectives on people often comes from new evidence or experiences.Life can be viewed as a movie, with each chapter having its own title.Reality shows often romanticize negative aspects of life and work.Human behavior is complex, with individuals capable of both good and evil actions.Navigating relationships requires giving others the benefit of the doubt until proven otherwise.Memorable experiences, like hot air balloon camp, shape our perspectives.The unpredictability of life can lead to surprising outcomes.Self-reflection is key to understanding our reactions to others.It's important to stay aware of the 'crazies' in life, including ourselves.Connect with Brittney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittneymgrant/Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 prioritize student care over tuition fees.Ames Community College has multiple campuses with diverse programs.Supporting multiple campuses can stretch resources thin.The adrenaline of live events is a driving force for many in the industry.Brittany emphasizes the importance of being involved in construction processes.Learning from past building projects is crucial for future success.Networking is essential in the higher education tech community.Brittany's fun job allows her to work with a dedicated crew.Mentorship plays a significant role in Brittany's career development.Sound Bites"People who work at community colleges care about students.""The adrenaline of live events drives you crazy.""I crave those moments where everything looks perfect."Keywordsaudio visual specialist, community college, Ames Community College, live events, construction processes, mentorship, higher education, networking, event managementConnect with Brittney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittneymgrant/Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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.TakeawaysWork is not real life; it's what funds your life.People are more important than the content of work.Introversion and extroversion can coexist in different contexts.Live music is a powerful experience that transcends the performance.Understanding human behavior is key to empathy and connection.Creativity in performances often goes unappreciated.Music has no nationality; it's a universal language.Friendships formed in early jobs can last a lifetime.As we age, we care less about being liked and more about the message.It's important to ask the real questions in conversations.Connect with Iffat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iffat-chaudhry/https://x.com/IffsiFollow #WhatIffhttps://www.youtube.com/@WhatIff22Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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.TakeawaysThe 'What If?' concept encourages proactive thinking and solutions.Storytelling is a powerful tool for advocacy and connection.Authenticity fosters deeper connections in communication.Creating safe spaces is essential for open conversations.Hearing others' stories can be cathartic and enlightening.Listening is more important than trying to fix problems.Diversity in the workplace leads to better outcomes and profitability.The AV industry is built on the contributions of its people.Hope exists for positive change in the AV industry.Sound Bites"What if we did things differently?""Nothing beats authenticity.""We all have a lot more in common than we realize."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Iffat Chaudhry and Her Work02:19 The 'What If?' Concept: Shifting Perspectives05:37 The Power of Storytelling in Advocacy09:58 Authenticity and Connection in Communication13:37 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations19:14 The Weight of Others' Stories23:50 The Importance of Listening and Being Present26:45 Looking Ahead: Hope for the AV Industry31:05 The Role of People in the AV IndustryConnect with Iffat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iffat-chaudhry/https://x.com/IffsiFollow #WhatIffhttps://www.youtube.com/@WhatIff22Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttp://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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 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.TakeawaysCreating magical user experiences is at the core of Lisle's work.Technology should enhance learning and foster connection.Lisle's passion for aviation reflects his desire to serve others.Humans are inherently good, as evidenced by their actions in times of crisis.Genuine connections are vital for emotional well-being.The soundtrack of life is a blend of personal experiences and memories.Lisle's experiences as a DJ inform his approach to creating engaging environments.Philosophical insights can shape our understanding of human nature.Asking 'how are you really?' can foster deeper connections.Connect with Lisle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lislew/lisle.waldron@utt.edu.tt868.683.2442Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttps://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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.KeywordsAV, multimedia, higher education, technology, Caribbean, audio visual services, education technology, universityNotesLisle Waldron is the multimedia and audio visual services manager for the University of Trinidad and Tobago.He always wanted to be a pilot, showcasing his early aspirations.Lisle identifies as a high-functioning autistic person, which influences his communication style.He emphasizes the importance of service in higher education AV support.He believes that AV professionals don't take defeat well and are always looking for solutions.Cultural expectations often lead to misconceptions about technology capabilities in the Caribbean.Lisle's budget for AV services is significantly lower than that of U.S. institutions, impacting his work.He feels a strong sense of responsibility, as he serves an entire country's educational needs.Lisle is proud of his contributions to the AV field and aims to continue making an impact.Connect with Lisle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lislew/lisle.waldron@utt.edu.tt868.683.2442Connect with Ryan: https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.com  Follow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttps://higheredav.com/ryangray  Voiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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 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.Keywordsleadership, performance evaluation, introversion, extroversion, gratitude, basic needs, second chancesTakeawaysLeadership should be focused on personal growth and development, rather than just performance evaluation tied to financial rewards.Understanding and meeting students' basic needs is crucial for their success in education.Introverts and extroverts have different strengths and challenges, and it's important to have a balance of both in leadership roles.Practicing gratitude and starting each day with a sense of gratitude can have a positive impact on one's mindset and approach to life.Everyone deserves second chances and the opportunity for redemption.Comparison is the thief of joy, and it's important to be kind to oneself and forgive mistakes.Sound Bites"Performance evaluation should be developmental, focusing on personal growth rather than financial rewards.""The role of a college president requires an extroverted personality, but introverts can also succeed in the position with coping mechanisms.""Starting the day with a sense of gratitude sets the day off in the right direction."Connect with Dr. Rhine:www.yc.eduLisa.Rhine@yc.eduhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-rhine-2959a926/Connect with Ryan:https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.comFollow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttps://higheredav.com/ryangrayVoiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!

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 education, innovation, risk-taking, student-centric, Center for Learning and Innovation Takeaways-Being a college president requires a strong moral compass, thick skin, and the ability to hold oneself to a higher standard.-Technology is constantly evolving and college leaders must stay on the cutting edge to provide the best learning experience for students.-Creating a culture of innovation and risk-taking is essential for colleges to adapt to changing technology and student needs.-Technology professionals play a crucial role in driving change and improving the student experience.-The Center for Learning and Innovation at Yavapai College is a student-centric space that embraces technology and fosters creativity and collaboration.Sound Bites"You have to hold yourself to a higher standard in terms of your behavior and your interaction.""We know technology is going to profoundly change what we do. We just don't know how.""You work for the students here. So let's talk it through from that angle."Connect with Dr. Rhine:www.yc.eduLisa.Rhine@yc.eduhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-rhine-2959a926/Connect with Ryan:https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Grayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/ryan@higheredav.comFollow the Show:https://twitter.com/AVITAmplifierhttps://higheredav.com/ryangrayVoiceovers by Chris Dechter:https://twitter.com/cdechterhttps://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!