Episodios

  • 120: Trying to Figure Out How to Control That Chaos with Dustin Myers

    120: Trying to Figure Out How to Control That Chaos with Dustin Myers
    Sep 10 2025
    Dustin Myers—Manager of Technology Support at John A. Logan College and HETMA’s two-year at-large board member—joins Ryan to talk about running lean teams that still deliver big results. He breaks down how a 10–11 person IT org moved from rigid silos to a customer-focused, cross-trained culture, and why communication is the real glue when you’re juggling desktop support, classrooms, theaters, events, construction, and the help desk. Dustin shares how a leadership reset and a college-wide realignment opened the door to standardization, shared language across subteams, and the freedom to “let it fail forward” without losing trust.

    They also dig into the road ahead: cloud-first AV (fewer boxes, more SaaS), AI beyond today’s ML-lite features, and fully immersive learning—from nursing sims to criminal-justice scenario rooms—that adapts in real time to student behavior. The throughline is practical: test small, iterate fast, borrow what works from peers, and publish the lessons back to the community so the next campus can move quicker than the last.

    Topics Discussed
    1. Wearing all the hats: desktop/classroom/event/theater/help-desk under one roof.
    2. Cross-training + shared vocabulary to break down silos.
    3. From “not my job” to customer-focused operations after a reorg.
    4. “Let it fail forward” vs. fear of failure in higher ed IT.
    5. Managing chaos: standards, SLAs, and incremental rollouts.
    6. Learning from peers to accelerate standardization (and avoid dead ends).
    7. Cloud and SaaS as the AV future (and what it breaks/what it unlocks).
    8. AI beyond “auto-frame”: adaptive, body-language-aware simulations.
    9. Community college advantage: speed, access, and “punching above weight.”
    10. Construction meetings, validation by example, and stakeholder buy-in.

    Connect with Dustin:
    Email – Dustin.Myers@jalc.edu
    LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-myers-cts-anp-172375104/
    HETMA Community – https://community.hetma.org/

    Connect with Ryan
    Twitter (X) – @Ryan_A_Gray
    LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
    Email – ryan@higheredav.com

    Voiceover – Chris Dechter

    This show is a production of Higher Ed AV Media, please visit www.higheredav.com to learn more about this show and a host of other great content.
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    30 m
  • 119: Gray Matter Moment - Radical Acceptance

    119: Gray Matter Moment - Radical Acceptance
    Aug 27 2025
    In this Gray Matter Moment, Ryan takes a thoughtful pause from guest conversations to explore a concept that’s been personally transformative for him: radical acceptance. Sparked by a presentation at Yavapai College’s convocation, he reflects on the psychological roots of the idea, its practical applications in leadership and technology, and how it connects to everyday challenges across higher education.

    From acknowledging reality without judgment to understanding the circles of control, influence, and concern, Ryan connects these lessons to AV/IT scenarios like AV over IP, organizational change, and team dynamics. He emphasizes that acceptance is not the same as approval or resignation—it’s the foundation for clarity, resilience, and effective action. Along the way, he shares personal experiences from therapy, insights from Stephen Covey, and connections to mindfulness practice. This episode offers both reflection and practical steps for leaders navigating complex transitions.

    Topics Discussed
    • Why the AV/IT Amplifier occasionally pauses and the value of Gray Matter Moments
    • Convocation at Yavapai College and the theme of navigating change
    • The concept of radical acceptance from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
    • Acceptance vs. approval: acknowledging truth without resignation
    • Examples of resistance in higher ed technology (AV over IP, cloud control)
    • Stephen Covey’s circles of control, influence, and concern
    • Parallels to the Serenity Prayer and recovery wisdom
    • Five skills for practicing radical acceptance in daily life
    • The role of mindfulness, breathing, and role-play in emotional regulation
    • How radical acceptance expands clarity, influence, and resilience

    The AV/IT Amplifier is a Higher Ed AV Media production. More at higheredav.com.

    Connect with Ryan
    Twitter – @Ryan_A_Gray
    LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
    Email – ryan@higheredav.com

    Voiceover by Chris Dechter.

    We’d love your feedback! Share thoughts on this episode and others by reaching out through social media or email.
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    21 m
  • Interstitial - Without Fail...

    Interstitial - Without Fail...
    Aug 21 2025
    Presented without comment.
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    3 m
  • 118: Always Love and Set The World On Fire With It with Jon Gunzel

    118: Always Love and Set The World On Fire With It with Jon Gunzel
    Aug 13 2025
    In this second week of conversation, Ryan Gray welcomes back Jonathan “Jon” Gunzel from John A. Logan College for another lively and candid chat. They dive into Jon’s biggest fear—spiders—and the surprising fact that he’s been bitten four times by brown recluses. Despite his arachnophobia, Jon shares that owning a pet spider would symbolize conquering his fears. The discussion winds through topics from cage diving with great white sharks, to customer service lessons learned as a bartender and liquor store employee, to the elusive secret behind why restaurant ranch dressing tastes so much better than bottled.

    Jon opens up about balancing introversion and extroversion, why he thinks people are inherently good, and where he’d place himself on the Dungeons & Dragons alignment chart. The episode also covers his past life as a vocalist in a metal band, including the creative process behind writing lyrics, the sounds that shaped his music, and where some of his early work still lives online. Along the way, Ryan and Jon have plenty of laughs—whether plotting a “ranch heist,” casting the movie of Jon’s life (must-have beard included), or reflecting on how a simple “how are you?” can change an interaction.

    Topics Discussed:
    • Conquering fears and why Jon would keep a pet spider
    • Four brown recluse bites and no Spider-Man powers
    • Why great white sharks are fascinating, not just frightening
    • Finding balance between introversion and extroversion in tech roles
    • Customer service lessons from bartending and liquor sales
    • The secret to restaurant-quality ranch dressing
    • Casting bearded actors to play Jon in the movie of his life
    • His years as a vocalist in a metal band and the collaborative songwriting process
    • Perspectives on human nature and the D&D alignment chart
    • The importance of genuinely asking “how are you?” before diving into requests

    Connect with Jon
    Email – Jonathan.Gunzel@jalc.edu
    LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgunzel89/

    Connect with Ryan
    Twitter (X) – https://twitter.com/Ryan_A_Gray
    LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray
    Email – ryan@higheredav.com

    Voiceover Credit: Chris Dechter

    Have thoughts or feedback? Reach out to Ryan on social or email, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a Wednesday drop.

    The AV/IT Amplifier Podcast is a production of Higher Ed AV Media. Learn more about this show and a host of other awesome content at www.higheredav.com
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    32 m
  • 117: I Don't Wanna Say Cult with Jon Gunzel

    117: I Don't Wanna Say Cult with Jon Gunzel
    Aug 6 2025
    In this episode of the AV/IT Amplifier podcast, host Ryan Gray talks with Jon Gunzel of John A. Logan College about managing AV, IT, and event support in a small college environment. Jon shares how his team covers everything from laptops and desktops to Q-SYS audio systems and classroom support, and why having one department handle all technology has unique advantages and challenges. They dive into how centralized support can reduce communication barriers but also create bottlenecks when staffing is lean, especially during peak times like the start of a semester.

    The conversation also explores John A. Logan College’s hands-on approach to student learning, including a podcast studio and other experiential learning spaces. Jon reflects on how joining HETMA and attending InfoComm have impacted his professional growth, including stepping up to help with tours and events, building relationships, and finding community in higher ed AV. The episode wraps with a look at how connection, curiosity, and a willingness to pitch in can open doors to new opportunities in the industry.

    Topics Discussed
    • Managing AV, IT, and classroom support in one department
    • Pros and cons of a centralized technology support model
    • Q-SYS systems and broad technical responsibilities
    • Building a podcast studio and its potential on campus
    • Hands-on experiential learning for students
    • Jon’s journey into HETMA and the higher ed AV community
    • First-time InfoComm experiences and lessons learned
    • The value of peer connection and mentorship in AV/IT
    • Growth opportunities through volunteering and stepping up
    • Building personal and professional networks in higher ed AV

    Guest Contact & Episode Credits
    Guest: Jon Gunzel
    Email: jonathan.gunzel@jalc.edu
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgunzel89/

    Host: Ryan Gray
    LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/ryanagray
    Email – ryan@higheredav.com

    This show is a produciton of Higher Ed AV Media - visit us at www.higheredav.com

    Voiceover by Chris Dechter

    We want to hear your feedback! Reach out and share your thoughts.
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    31 m
  • Crossover: HETMA Presents... This Month in Higher Ed AV: July 2025

    Crossover: HETMA Presents... This Month in Higher Ed AV: July 2025
    Jul 30 2025
    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 Discussed
    • Launch of This Month in Higher Ed AV as a monthly series
    • Overview of HETMA’s Road to 10K membership campaign and six strategic pillars
    • Community-building approaches for higher ed AV professionals
    • Sony Pro Bravia displays powering LiquidView virtual windows
    • Applications of virtual windows in education and wellness spaces
    • Back-to-basics DSP best practices from Teddy Murphy’s Sound Perspectives column
    • Audio quality as a foundation for hybrid learning and clear communication
    • Panel perspectives from higher ed, manufacturing, and association leadership
    • Upcoming Higher Ed AV Media content, including Chair to Chair and new AI-focused columns
    • Reflections on how AV professionals can leverage industry content for growth

    Join 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
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    42 m
  • 116: Oh Gosh Ryan with Atkins Fleming

    116: Oh Gosh Ryan with Atkins Fleming
    Jul 23 2025
    Recorded live at the HETMA Roadshow in Chicago, this week’s episode continues the conversation with Atkins Fleming, Assistant Director for Learning Spaces at Texas State University and Treasurer of HETMA. Picking up where Episode 115 left off, this candid discussion drifts from music to meaning, from fake Zoom backgrounds to the real impact of integrity in leadership.

    Atkins and Ryan go deep into what drives decision-making, the slippery slope of compromised values, and why being a steady, ethical presence in an organization is more powerful than we think. Along the way, they get a little lost in 90s country nostalgia, try to cast the movie of Atkins’s life, and toy with the idea of forming a HETMA house band. This is more than just a follow-up—it’s a masterclass in consistency, character, and how showing up with quiet authenticity shapes a culture.

    Topics Discussed
    • What Atkins would do if not in higher ed or tech (spoiler: drums are involved)
    • His musical roots, band geek origins, and love for 90s country
    • The challenge of naming the HETMA band and Joe Way’s Slash story
    • Casting Jake Gyllenhaal in the movie of his life
    • Whether people are fundamentally good—and how that belief shapes his work
    • Ethics in leadership, from timecards to treasury duties
    • The contagious nature of moral culture, good or bad
    • Travel hacks from Central Texas and the 16-hour rule of driving through Texas
    • Why Atkins always uses the same Zoom background (and what it says about him)
    • The most common answer to “a question you wish people asked you”

    Guest Info

    Atkins Fleming
    Assistant Director for Learning Spaces, Texas State University
    Treasurer, HETMA
    atkins@txstate.edu

    Ryan Gray – Host
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
    Email: ryan@higheredav.com www.higheredav.com

    Voiceover by Chris Dechter
    We’d love your feedback! Email us or find us in the HETMA Community.
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    31 m
  • 115: Building Structure That Can Be Replicated with Atkins Fleming

    115: Building Structure That Can Be Replicated with Atkins Fleming
    Jul 16 2025
    Recorded live at the HETMA Chicago Roadshow on the campus of Northwestern University, this episode features a candid and insightful conversation with Atkins Fleming, Assistant Director for Learning Spaces at Texas State University and current Treasurer of HETMA. Ryan finally manages to sit down with Atkins after years of crossing paths, and the result is a conversation full of heart, structure, and purpose.
    Atkins walks listeners through his HETMA origin story, his evolution from a university AV tech to an administrative leader, and the behind-the-scenes work it takes to run a financially responsible, volunteer-led national organization. From tax filings and credit card systems to the values that underpin budget decisions, Atkins opens up about how his structured mindset has helped shape HETMA’s operational maturity. For anyone curious how an advocacy group like HETMA actually works—or thinking about how they can contribute—this one’s a must-listen.

    Topics Discussed:
    • Atkins’s 13-year journey at Texas State University
    • The AV profile and internal integration model at TXST
    • HETMA’s early days and Atkins’s first exposure to the organization
    • The path to becoming HETMA Treasurer and what the role entails
    • Balancing structure and ambiguity in a volunteer-run organization
    • Maturing processes: CPA support, credit cards, and reimbursements
    • Financial transparency and sponsor accountability
    • Moving toward self-sustaining event models
    • Succession planning and setting the next treasurer up for success
    • The alignment of HETMA’s financial practices with its core values

    Guest Contact Info:
    • Email (HETMA): treasurer@hetma.org
    • Email (Texas State): atkins@txstate.edu

    Host Contact Info:
    • Ryan Gray (LinkedIn): linkedin.com/in/ryanagray
    • Email: ryan@higheredav.com

    Show Links:
    • Higher Ed AV: higheredav.com

    Voiceover Credit: Chris Dechter

    Feedback Welcome:
    If you’re enjoying the AV/IT Amplifier, consider rating and reviewing the show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also leave a comment or send us a message—we’d love to hear your feedback and ideas for future guests.
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    30 m