Higher Ed Av Podcast

Recorded live from the InfoComm show floor, Jay Lyons joins the HETMA podcast to talk through Logitech’s latest higher ed solutions, including the Rally Camera Streamline Kit, a 65” touchscreen display, and a suite of peripherals designed for plug-and-play classroom installs. Jay shares insight into how Logitech is supporting scalable hybrid learning environments, with an emphasis on usability, consistency, and clean installs across diverse room types. The conversation is relaxed, practical, and focused on the day-to-day realities of campus AV teams.

Dalen Reifsteck sits down live at the HETMA booth to walk through AVer’s camera-first approach to hybrid learning. He outlines the use cases for their new TR615 broadcast PTZ, the DL30 AI auto-tracking camera, and the MT300 all-in-one unit — all framed around practical deployments for classrooms of all shapes and sizes. The recording feels relaxed and relatable, with clear emphasis on inclusive learning and ease of use.

In this upbeat floor interview, Jim Kidwell from Audinate joins the HETMA crew to talk about the expansion of the Dante platform beyond audio and into video with Dante AV. He discusses what it means for higher ed users, highlights the new AVIO Install Adapters, and reflects on the importance of real-world interoperability and feedback from the higher ed community. The conversation is casual, technical, and clearly tailored for campus AV pros managing scale and complexity.

Chuck Espinoza brings high energy and clarity to this early-morning InfoComm interview, recorded pre-show floor opening at the Camp HETMA booth. As Aurora’s Global Director of Education, Chuck talks about ReAX control, Smart Speak voice integration, and how Aurora trains and supports higher ed teams around AV-over-IP. It’s less a pitch and more a conversation between educators, with lots of humor and firsthand perspective.

John Hulen joins the podcast from the always-busy Crestron booth to talk about their 2025 InfoComm presence and strategy. He covers the booth’s improved design, new additions to the DM NVX product line (including a four-input encoder/decoder), and Crestron’s focus on helping schools migrate to IP-based infrastructure without unnecessary friction. The interview is energetic, focused, and tuned to the higher ed audience’s operational realities.

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Lisle Waldron, Erin Maher-Moran, Ann Kelly, and BC Hatchett on the show, live from the HETMA booth on the InfoComm show floor. They discuss their top takeaways from the week from the higher ed point of view. What were the best events, products, and offerings, for 2025? Watch and listen!Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

In this final installment of our four-part series sponsored by Korbyt, guest host Britt Yenser leads a dynamic and thoughtful conversation on the importance of accessibility in campus digital signage. Joined by Travis Kemp and Donovan Monday, the episode dives deep into practical strategies, common pitfalls, and the human impact of inclusive AV design.From accessible templates to collaborative content creation and campus walk audits, this episode is packed with actionable advice. The guests also tackle tough questions—like what happens when accessibility is an afterthought—and share personal stories where inclusive AV made a meaningful difference.Plus, stick around for a rapid round where aliens, Star Wars takes, and Queen anthems all make an appearance.Don’t miss this accessible, insightful, and fun wrap-up to our Korbyt-sponsored series!Connect with Travis KempLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-kemp-5350b02/Connect with Donovan MondayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovan-monday/Connect wit

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Dave Labuskes, CEO of AVIXA, the company responsible for the InfoComm show. They discuss what’s happening with this year’s show, what impact we’re seeing in the industry, and tips on how to have a successful event. Watch and listen!Find HETMA on the show floor at booth #4887.Use code “HETMA” for a free show floor pass and https://www.infocommshow.org. Connect with AVIXA & InfoComm:Web: https://www.infocommshow.orgWeb: https://www.avixa.orgConnect with David Labuskes:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlabuskes/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Troy Powers (HETMA Vice-Chair), Teddy Murphy (HETMA 1-Year At-Large BoD, and Ann Kelly (Events Chair) to the podcast to preview #InfoComm25 for the higher ed vertical. They cover the HETMA Education Summit (June 9-10), Higher Ed AV Awards (June 9), the show floor booth (#4887), show floor tours, the Higher Ed AV happy hours (2-4pm everyday), and the after-hours events. Watch and listen!Find HETMA on the show floor at booth #4887.Use code "HETMA" for a free show floor pass and https://www.infocommshow.org.Connect with HETMA:Web: https://www.hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkeding.com/company/hetmaX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/hetma_orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hetma_orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hetmaConnect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/j

What do you do when your classroom tech needs a refresh, but your budget is running on fumes? In this episode, guest host Britt Yenser leads an energetic and insightful conversation with BC Hatchett and Kaleo Lee on how to modernize campus technology—without breaking the bank.From data-driven decision-making and creative funding strategies to the power of partnerships and the value of “fun” in AV design, the trio explores how to prioritize upgrades, build strategic relationships, and make the most of what you already have. They also dive into how student experience, recruitment, and even Reddit can guide your AV strategy.Plus, they wrap up with a rapid round of karaoke picks, digital signage voiceovers, and last lecture advice that you don’t want to miss.Whether you're a tech manager at a large institution or managing a few classrooms on a shoestring, this episode is full of relatable stories and actionable takeaways to help you do more with less. Tune in. Budget smarter. Stay inspired.This episode is part of

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes James Scoggins, Media Technology Specialist at Grayson College, to the show. James discusses his role within the small but mights team serving the campus community and how his role encompasses expanding IT areas (like Zoom administration). They continue to discuss how the HETMA and higher education community is key in professional growth and having a group of colleagues to share ideas and challenges and wins with. Watch and listen!Connect with James Scoggins:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-l-scoggins/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

Beyond the Lecture Hall: Enhancing Student Engagement with Digital Signage & Interactive Tech – How dynamic AV/IT tools are reshaping student communication and engagement.In this special episode of the Higher Ed AV Podcast, guest host Britt Yenser takes the mic for the second episode of a four part Korbyt-sponsored series exploring the evolving world of digital signage in higher education. Britt is joined by industry pros Kaleo Lee, Travis Burdick, and Stephen “Chewie” Stavar. Together, they dive into creative campus communication strategies, the power of personalized content, and how digital signage is becoming a central tool for student engagement, branding, and way-finding. Expect plenty of laughs, candid insights, and practical tips to inspire your next campus signage upgrade. Whether you’re rethinking your digital signage strategy or just curious about the latest trends, this episode brings the right mix of tech and storytelling.Connect with Kaleo LeeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaleolee/ Tr

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Melis Vardar, Manager of AV/IT Operations at UCLA, to the show, who was recently named to the 2025 Class of SCN's "The Nine." They discuss how Melis found herself in the AV industry, how her career growth informs the way she leads her department, and her current role on campus. They also discuss the importance of seeing AV with a business mindset, alongside the customer experience. Watch and listen!Check out Melis's SCN "The Nine" spotlight here: https://www.avnetwork.com/news/the-nine-2025-melis-vardar Connect with Melis Varder:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melis-vardar/X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/Melis_Vardar_Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Jon Youse, Director of Educational Technology Support and Operations at Ivy Tech Community College, to the show. They discuss how Jon manages multiple departments, the connection between them, and how his career path and experience as an adjunct faculty helps to inform his leadership. They also discuss how Jon's involvement in HETMA has helped with knowledge growth, and what he's looking to get out of InfoComm '25! Watch and listen!Connect with Jon Youse:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-youse/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway

In this first episode of a special four-part series sponsored by Korbyt, guest host Britt Yenser dives into the evolving world of digital signage and smart campus communication. Joining Britt are Max Guerrero, Bill Fons, Lex Evans, and Erik DeGiorgi.Together, they explore:-How QR code surveys drive real-time feedback and boost student engagement.-The game-changing potential of smart playlists to automate and personalize campus messaging.-The exciting (and sometimes intimidating) ways AI and machine learning are shaping the future of content creation, signage management, and campus experiences.-The critical balance between innovation and security in higher ed environments.Plus, stick around for the fun rapid round where the panel shares surprising campus tech stories, dream superpowers, and favorite college traditions—from corndogs and football chants to... let’s just say some unforgettable mascot choices.Whether you're deep into AV tech or just curious about what’s next for campus communication, this episode

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Aaron Baker, Classroom Support Technician at Stephen F. Austin Univeristy, to the show. They discuss Aaron's career growth, the "do it all" mentality of their three-person team, his involvement in HETMA and the AV community, and how they go about picking the most appropriate technologies for every space (hint: it's not only about standardization). Oh, and we're back to talking about great BBQ for the second week in a row! Watch and listen!Connect with Aaron Baker:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bakeraarond/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Jay Lyons, Product Manager, Mobility EDU, at Logitech to the show. They discuss the changes, trends, and challenges facing instiutions as they approach designing and installing for active learning and hybrid spaces. They talk about supporting solutions in scale and taking away the roadblocks that many faculty face. Jay shares how his role as a product manager informs looking at the lifecycle of the user and how tech managers can bring that to best support faculty and students. Oh, and they talk about the best BBQ in the world. Watch and listen!Check out the Logitech Camera Streamline Kit here: https://www.logitech.com/en-us/products/video-conferencing/room-solutions/rally-streamline-kit.991-000553.htmlConnect with Jay Lyons and Logitech:Web: https://www.logitech.com/educationLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lyons-aa1262a/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https:

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Sahil Dhingra, Co-founder and Co-CEO, of XTEN-AV to the show. They discuss design and tech trends impacting higher ed, AI, virtual reality, and exciting upcoming announcements. Also, make sure to listen through for their thoughs on the future of AI. Is it going to steal your job? Is it going to create smart robots that will take over the world? Watch and listen!Join the design webinar on May 20, 2025: https://streamyard.com/watch/Ea852ieSKhf5Book a trial: https://meetings.hubspot.com/xten/jw-meeting-linkConnect with Sahil Dhangra and XTEN-AV:Web: https://www.xtenav.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahildhingra00/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Ace Hazziez to the show. Ace is a recent graduate of the YearUp program as an intern at Northwestern University. His experience made him fall in love with the AV industry and make it his future. Joe and Ace discuss the experience, lessons learned, and path for entry into the industy. Watch and listen! (Oh, and AV integrators in Chicago... hire Ace!)Connect with Ace Hazziez:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ace-hazziez/Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway 

The seventh HETMA Virtual Conference was a huge success and that's a testament to all our members, both in higher ed and our corporate partners. To kick it off, Joe Way talks with the board of directors on how they have seen the organization develop, the current state, and the future ahead. Take a listen!Connect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/josiahway