Higher Ed AV Podcast with Joe Way

In this special live episode from the HETMA Roadshow in Mechelen, Belgium, Joe Way wraps up HETMA’s first European Roadshow with conversations from the show floor at Thomas More University of Applied Sciences. The episode captures the energy, lessons, and excitement of a milestone event that brought higher education AV professionals, university leaders, and manufacturer partners together to build community, share challenges, and explore the future of learning spaces in Europe.Joe opens the episode by reflecting on the success of the two-day Roadshow and the clear desire across the European higher ed AV community for more opportunities like this. While HETMA has built a proven Roadshow model in North America, this event showed that the same need for connection, collaboration, and shared problem-solving exists across Europe, even as the format must be adapted to fit regional culture, expectations, and community dynamics.The first conversation features Darta from Catchbox, who shares how Catchbox has grown beyond its iconic throwable microphone into a broader microphone and audio system for education spaces. She discusses the value of simple, teacher-friendly technology, including the Catchbox Cube, Clip microphone, handheld microphone, receiver, and built-in DSP capabilities. The conversation highlights how reducing complexity for instructors also reduces support tickets for AV teams.Joe then sits down with Tom from Thomas More University of Applied Sciences, one of the key leaders behind hosting the Roadshow. Tom reflects on the intentional design of the university’s newest building, explaining that technology should enhance learning rather than force teachers to adapt to technology. The discussion centers on purposeful design, student comfort, long-term thinking, and the impressive retractable LED wall that became one of the standout features of the campus tour.Next, Kenny from Thomas More joins the conversation to talk about the behind-the-scenes work required to make the event successful. He shares how the university’s AV team supports multiple campuses while maintaining a shared vision and strong internal trust. Kenny emphasizes that events like the Roadshow create the rare opportunity for peers to step away from their daily work, compare challenges, and learn directly from one another.Joe also speaks with Mia, Director of Infrastructure and Facilities at Thomas More, following her keynote on the university’s approach to educational infrastructure. She explains the guiding principles behind their learning spaces, including community, ease of learning, desire to learn, sustainability, and innovation. Her perspective reinforces one of the strongest themes of the episode: the best learning spaces begin with the student and teacher experience, not the technology.The episode continues with conversations from several manufacturer partners, including Sennheiser, Crestron, Biamp, and Extron. Across these conversations, recurring themes emerge around e

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way tries something brand new: the first-ever No Context Flash Pitch. The concept is simple, chaotic, and exactly what makes the higher ed AV community so special. Guests jump on live, get two minutes, and can pitch anything they want. A product. A booth. A project. A tip. A warning. A reason to get excited for InfoComm. No prep. No polish. No sponsor package. Just real people, real energy, and real reasons to show up. What follows is a fast-paced, community-powered preview of InfoComm 2026, featuring manufacturers, HETMA partners, higher ed professionals, and longtime AV friends sharing what they are bringing to the show floor and why it matters for the higher education vertical. Bert Feldman, INOGENI Bert Feldman, U.S. Sales Director at INOGENI, kicks off the Flash Pitch format with a powerhouse overview of the company’s growing AV and UC portfolio. He previews INOGENI’s latest work around USB, USB-C, IP, multi-camera switching, BYOM, room system flexibility, and automated classroom capture workflows. The headline is CamTrack, INOGENI’s multi-camera automated switching solution designed to support active learning spaces, lecture capture rooms, hybrid classrooms, and flexible teaching environments. Bert also highlights INOGENI’s IP-to-USB converter, Dante-enabled workflows, the upcoming U-BRIDGE USB-C extender, and the award-winning TOGGLE series. For higher ed, the message is clear: INOGENI is helping campuses simplify the complicated spaces where cameras, microphones, computers, and collaboration platforms all need to work together without friction. John Palazinski, GUDE Systems John Palazinski from GUDE Systems brings the perfect mix of product preview, HETMA partnership, and show-floor energy. He talks about GUDE’s strong involvement with HETMA, including participation in the HETMA Approved evaluation program, and previews new products coming to InfoComm, including an updated AC/DC box, a new UPS box, and GUDE’s cloud software for managing power and connected devices. For higher ed institutions, John’s pitch is about more than power. It is about reliability, remote management, uptime, and giving AV teams better tools to support the rooms their campuses depend on every day. He also teases a special gift for HETMA members who stop by the booth, proving once again that swag and smart infrastructure can absolutely coexist. Renee Benson, Sony Renee Benson from Sony joins from the road and still manages to bring the heart of the episode into focus: relationships. Sony lists Renee Benson among its HETMA recognitions as “Best Vendor Rep,” and Sony’s InfoComm 2026 page lists booth C8301.  Renee previews Sony’s InfoComm presence, including new BRAVIA displays, P-Series and S-Series solutions, LED offerings, and the opportunity for attendees to connect directly with Sony’s regional teams. Her segment is a reminder that technology is only part of the equation. In higher ed AV, trust matters. Relationships matte

OverviewIn this annual InfoComm preview episode, Joe Way welcomes back David Labuskes, CEO of AVIXA, for what may be Dave’s final Higher Ed AV Podcast appearance before his retirement at the end of the year. Together, they discuss why InfoComm is more than a trade show, how end users and higher education continue to shape the future of AV, and why community-centered organizations like HETMA have become essential to the industry’s growth. The conversation also reflects on Dave’s leadership, the importance of intentional networking, and the legacy of leaving the industry better than he found it.Show NotesInfoComm season is here, and that means it is time for one of the Higher Ed AV Podcast’s favorite annual traditions: a conversation with Dave Labuskes, CEO of AVIXA. As the countdown begins to the industry’s biggest event, Joe and Dave preview what attendees can expect in Las Vegas, from new show floor activations to keynotes, education, networking, and the growing presence of the higher ed AV community.Dave shares how the role of the end user has evolved from attendee to central community member, noting that end users now represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the InfoComm audience. For higher education, that shift has created new opportunities for connection, advocacy, professional growth, and industry influence, especially through the continued growth of HETMA.The conversation also explores why InfoComm works because it is owned and produced by AVIXA, an association whose mission is rooted in advancing the AV profession rather than simply producing a profitable event. Dave explains that when the show’s purpose is tied to the health of the industry, it becomes a platform for standards, education, community, and the future direction of AV itself.Joe and Dave also talk through practical advice for first-time and returning attendees. Dave encourages listeners to be intentional, define what success looks like before arriving, schedule key meetings, attend community events, and leave room for serendipity. Whether someone is looking for peers, mentors, manufacturer training, education sessions, or new technology discoveries, the key is having a plan while staying open to the unexpected.The episode closes with a heartfelt reflection on Dave’s career, his favorite memories from leading AVIXA, the emotional significance of InfoComm after the pandemic, and what he hopes his legacy will be. His answer is simple and powerful: leave it better than you found it.Key TakeawaysInfoComm is not just a trade show. It is an industry event where community, education, commerce, and leadership come together to shape the future of AV.End users, including those in higher education, are no longer just attendees. They are a vital part of the AV community and one of the most important voices in the direction of the industry.HETMA’s gro

In this special Higher Ed AV Podcast live stream, Joe Way is joined by Shure’s Yuri and Ryan for an in-depth look at the new SLXD+ wireless platform and what it means for higher education AV teams. Broadcasting with HETMA and packed with live audience questions, this episode explores how Shure has expanded SLXD+ into a more powerful, enterprise-ready option for classrooms, lecture halls, event spaces, and campus-wide deployments.Yuri breaks down the biggest upgrades to SLXD+, including wideband tuning, ShowLink Ease transmitter control, Dante-enabled quad receivers, digital feedback reduction, encryption, audio summing, and expanded cascading capabilities. The conversation also tackles real-world higher ed concerns such as compatibility with legacy SLXD gear, Q-SYS integration, rechargeable transmitter options, wireless range expectations, firmware updates, and how SLXD+ compares with ULXD in larger campus environments.This episode stands out because it is not just a product overview. It is a practical discussion about workflow, scalability, flexibility, and support for institutions that need reliable wireless systems without unnecessary complexity. The live Q&A format also gives listeners a direct look at the kinds of questions higher ed technology leaders are asking right now as they evaluate next-generation classroom and event audio solutions.What you will hear in this episode:An introduction to Shure SLXD+ and why it is a major leap forward from the original SLXDHow wideband tuning simplifies deployment and inventory managementWhat ShowLink Ease does and how it enables remote transmitter controlHow automatic frequency mitigation works during interference eventsNew DSP capabilities including feedback reduction and audio summingDante support and cascading improvements for larger multi-channel environmentsCompatibility with existing SLXD systems and third-party control platformsPractical insight into where SLXD+ fits in higher ed compared to ULXDAudience questions about range, battery reporting, demo opportunities, and moreA reminder that higher ed AV is increasingly thinking at an enterprise scale, and manufacturers are responding accordinglyGuests:Yuri Lysoivanov, Senior Solutions Engineer at ShureRyan Budvitis, Senior Solutions Engineer at Shure and liaison to HETMAWhy listen:If you are responsible for classroom technology, live events, campus wireless strategy, or AV standardization, this episode offers a timely look at a product line designed to make professional wireless easier to deploy, manage, and scale across higher education environments.Connect with Shure:Ryan Budvitis: [email protected] Online: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqblM0WktyZngyMEdGVm4tTGNQbmN0WkhBeXg0UXxB

353: From Grassroots to Gravity with BC HatchettHigher Ed AV Podcast with Joe WayIn episode two of this six-part series, Joe Way welcomes back HETMA cofounder BC Hatchett for an honest conversation about what happens when a grassroots movement grows into something much bigger. What started as a bold idea to advocate for higher education in the AV industry has become a real business with real responsibility, real expectations, and real consequences. Together, Joe and BC reflect on the successes, the missteps, the personal and professional weight of leadership, and the reality that building something meaningful often comes with pressure, scars, and lessons learned the hard way.This episode dives into the evolution of HETMA from a passionate startup community into a recognized force within the AV industry. Joe and BC talk candidly about reputation, sponsorship accountability, the burden of representing an entire vertical, and the personal growth required when your role shifts from organizer to leader. It is a conversation about advocacy, intentionality, business maturity, and the uncomfortable truth that sometimes success requires hard pivots, difficult self-awareness, and the willingness to outgrow your own early identity.The conversation also explores what it means to advocate for yourself, your community, and your profession. Joe and BC unpack the tension between being visible and being divisive, between being liked and being respected, and between having fun while building something serious. They close by encouraging listeners to step out, take risks, and understand that growth is rarely smooth, but it is often worth it.Along the way, the episode includes a fun “Hot or Not” segment covering topics like BYOD in learning environments, AI in cameras and microphones, classroom standardization, USB-C over HDMI, hiring for attitude over skill, whether leaders need to be experts, and why respect matters more than popularity.Guest:BC Hatchett is the Director of Classroom Technology at Vanderbilt University and the co-founding partner alongside Joe Way in building HETMA. In this episode, he brings a grounded perspective on leadership, responsibility, and the challenges of turning vision into sustainable impact.Connect with BC Hatchett:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bc-hatchett-88746312/X (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/bchatchettConnect with Joe Way:Web: https://www.josiahway.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/josiahwayX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/josiahwayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/josiahwayYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@josiahwayTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@josiahway

In this episode of the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way launches the first installment of a six-part series focused on failure, reinvention, leadership, and personal brand building. Joined by longtime friend Raul Cabrera, president of Miguel Studios in Fort Worth, Texas, Joe goes back to his early Texas days to reflect on a business venture that did not go as planned and the lessons that came from it. What unfolds is an honest conversation about risk, entrepreneurship, accountability, resilience, and how some of life’s hardest setbacks become the very things that shape future success.Joe and Raul revisit how they first met through dance lessons, how that relationship evolved into a business opportunity, and what it was like to be part of an ambitious concept that was simply ahead of its time. From there, the conversation moves into the realities of leadership, including the weight of making decisions that affect other people’s lives, the importance of transparency during difficult times, and the growth that comes from owning your mistakes instead of hiding them. Raul also shares how his own path through ministry, marketing, and entrepreneurship led him to content creation and digital strategy, offering practical insight for anyone looking to build a brand and tell their story more effectively.This episode is both deeply personal and highly practical. It is a conversation about what happens when your biggest failures become your greatest teachers, and why leaders who are willing to own their shortcomings often earn the deepest trust. It also sets the tone for the rest of the series, which will continue exploring Joe’s journey, the people who shaped it, and the lessons that can help others step into advocacy, confidence, and platform-building for themselves. In this episode: Joe kicks off a new six-part series centered on failure, growth, and self-advocacyRaul Cabrera joins the show to reflect on Joe’s early Texas chapter A look back at an ambitious business concept that failed, and why Lessons on leadership, risk tolerance, and the cost of hiding hard truths Why accountability in the moment can strengthen trust and team cultureReflections on ministry, calling, burnout, and life transitionsRaul’s journey into digital marketing, social media strategy, and content creationWhy YouTube and TikTok matter for personal brand buildingA fun rapid round featuring college traditions, food, In-N-Out, and social media advice About the guest:Raul Cabrera is the president of Miguel Studios in Fort Worth, Texas, a content studio and digital marketing company that helps organizations with content creation, social media management, and digital strategy. His career path has spanned hospitality, ministry, marketing, and entrepreneurship, giving him a unique perspective on leadership, communication, and building something fr

Joe explains that being a qualified buyer is not about exclusivity or being part of a large, well-funded institution. It is about being educated, having a clear understanding of the problem you are trying to solve, knowing your deliverables, and entering conversations with enough clarity to help solution partners actually respond in a useful way. He also shares why this mindset creates better relationships, better decisions, and better long-term success for everyone involved.

Since Higher Ed AV Awards nominations are now open (https://HigherEdAVAwards.com), Joe uses this episode to pull back the curtain on what actually makes an award nomination stand out. Drawing from his unique experience as a nominee, winner, judge, and awards organizer, he explains why strong nominations matter more than reputation, marketing language, or assumptions that an entry alone should guarantee a trophy. He breaks down the different types of industry awards, from public voting and panel-judged honors to editorial recognitions, and explains how the strongest entries consistently focus on impact, specificity, audience awareness, and meaningful proof.Joe walks listeners through what judges are really looking for, especially in the Higher Ed AV Awards. He explains why nominees need to fully answer every section, maximize every character allowed, provide measurable results, include strong references, and avoid vague marketing language. He also emphasizes that judges can only score what is actually included in the submission, not what they may already know about a person, company, or product. The episode is both a practical guide and a candid reality check for anyone hoping to improve their chances of winning.Along the way, Joe also shares details about this year’s Higher Ed AV Awards, including entry timing, category structure, Hall of Fame distinctions, the new People’s Choice Awards, and what attendees can expect during Higher Ed Week at InfoComm. It is part awards masterclass, part industry pep talk, and part preview of the bigger conversations still to come on the podcast. In this episode:Why awards matter and how different award programs are judgedThe three main types of AV industry awards: public vote, judging panels, and editorial picksWhy the quality of the nomination matters more than name recognitionWhat judges actually score and why incomplete entries lose pointsHow to write stronger executive summaries, detailed overviews, and impact statementsWhy references, testimonials, quotes, and supporting documentation matterCommon mistakes manufacturers, marketers, and nominees make when entering awardsHow Higher Ed AV Awards scoring works for products, projects, and peopleWhy Hall of Fame is not the same as a lifetime achievement awardA preview of the new People’s Choice Award categoriesKey dates and details for this year’s Higher Ed AV Awards and Higher Ed Week at InfoCommKey takeaway:Great work does not automatically win awards. Great nominations do. The strongest submissions tell a clear story, prove impact, speak to the right audience, and make it easy for judges to understand exactly why that person, product, or project deserves recognition.Mentioned in this episode:Higher Ed AV AwardsHETMA

This special double episode of the podcast brings you straight to Enterprise Connect 2026 in two parts. First, Joe goes live from the show floor, walking the event, taking in the energy of the conference, and sharing real-time conversations and insights from one of the industry’s biggest and best UC gatherings. Then the episode shifts to a featured higher ed panel session moderated by Joe Way, bringing together James King, Chi Hang Lo, Kerlin Cisneros, and Rodrigo Ceballos for a thoughtful discussion on the role of communications, collaboration, and technology in higher education. Together, the two parts capture both the excitement of the event floor and the depth of conversation shaping the future of higher ed technology.

In this interestingly off-the-wall and completely impromptu episode of the Higher Ed AV livestream, Joe goes live from the Sony AV Tech Expo in San Diego, bringing viewers along for a spontaneous walk through the show floor. With his signature energy and curiosity, he dives into the action in real time, jumping into conversations, catching up with attendees, and offering an unfiltered look at the people, technology, and moments that make events like this so engaging. The result is a fun, candid, and immersive experience that feels less like a formal broadcast and more like being right there with him in the middle of it all.

In this short solo episode, Joe Way gives less of a preview and rather a reminder to log in for the HETMA Virtual Conference, emphasizing that it is free, easy to access, and built to fit into a normal work week. He explains that all you need to do is create a free account on the HETMA community site, go to the Events and Replays area, open the Virtual Conference listing, and click the Zoom link to join, with the schedule and recordings also available through the community.From there, he reflects on why the virtual conference matters to the organization’s identity, because it was how HETMA began and how its “by us and for us” approach came to life, with the community choosing what it wanted to learn and bringing in the right experts rather than relying on a generic call for sessions. He notes that the virtual conference became an important platform for higher education voices, especially during the COVID era, and that it helped accelerate the organization’s growth, leadership development, and initiatives, including moments where honest feedback from attendees shaped meaningful action.Joe highlights the unique community effect of the event, where people can join quietly, participate in chat, and still build relationships that later turn into deeper involvement and leadership within HETMA. This year’s conference runs for three days, with morning kickoffs, sessions throughout the day, and a daily happy hour to keep the community connection strong, and Joe repeatedly gives permission to attend in the most realistic way possible by putting it on in the background, jumping in between meetings, and treating it as a flexible shared experience rather than something that requires stepping away from work. He closes by reinforcing that this free conference is especially valuable when budgets and travel are limited, because it still provides three days of learning, networking, and shared problem solving with the higher ed AV community, plus the ability to catch replays afterward if you cannot attend everything live.Visit the community page: https://community.hetma.org/posts/80675845.

Integrated Systems Europe was bigger and better than ever before. Listen as Joe and the HETMA team break down the Best of #ISE2026!

HETMA hosted two simultaneous booths at #ISE2026 and the #EdTech2026 Congress in Barcelona. Joe and crew stream and record between the shows. Watch and listen to what will be one of the most entertaining shows yet!

Joe is live from the HETMA Booth on day 1 of ISE 2026!

Higher Ed AV PodcastEpisode 343Joe Way caps off his ISE preview series with one of his annual favorite conversations, welcoming back Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, the organizers of Integrated Systems Europe. Mike shares why ISE 2026 is on track to be the biggest edition yet, how the team plans the show as a year round reinvention cycle, and what “Push Beyond” really means in practice, not just as a theme, but as a commitment to raising the bar for the industry and the attendee experience.A big focus of the episode is how ISE has become more than a trade show inside a convention center. Mike explains the deliberate shift to making ISE a city wide experience that gives something back to Barcelona while also showcasing the best of AV to the public. Joe and Mike unpack how those external activations connect back to the show floor, the conference program, and the broader mission of ISE as a marketplace plus an editorial engine for learning.The conversation also goes deep on vertical strategy and why education continues to grow at ISE. Mike talks about partnering with subject matter experts and communities to curate programming that motivates end users to attend, and Joe shares how HETMA is helping first timers navigate the show and find their people. They close with practical pro tips for surviving the scale of ISE, plus Mike’s latest attendance signals and a few Barcelona favorites.Key topics and highlightsMike’s role and the show’s foundation: Integrated Systems Events as a joint venture between AVIXA and CEDIA, with more than two decades of ISE history and continued growthISE 2026 theme: Push BeyondInternal: the ISE team challenges itself every year to avoid getting “comfortable” and to reinvent the experienceExternal: challenging the AV and systems integration industry to push boundaries and raise expectationsWhy ISE feels different: ISE as both marketplace and “publisher”Exhibitors are the marketplace and the advertisingISE’s job is the editorial: conferences, summits, thought leadership, and curated experiences that make the trip worth itBarcelona as part of the showThe origin story: learning from city gridlock in Amsterdam and deciding to create value for locals, not just visitorsProjection mapping at Casa Batlló and connecting it back to the show through artist involvement and learning momentsCollaboration with the Llum lighting festival, moving it to dovetail with ISE and supporting it without consuming its identityA major new “Push Beyond” moment for 2026: drones go outsideNightly outdoor drone shows near the venue starting around 6:30 pmIntegrated with a large transparent LED element and immersive programmingSpecial Tuesday evening performance with a live orchestra and opera singer, then repe

It's an annual tradition, the AVNation "Best of" Awards, and Chi Hang Lo is up for AV Professional of the Year, along with UCLA's Classroom Modernization Pilot, and HETMA for Best Technical Support! Take a listen as Joe Way sits down with Chi to discuss this honor and why you should #VoteForChi.Joe Way drops a special Friday episode to spotlight the AV Nation Awards (Readers’ Choice “Best of 2025”) and rally the higher ed community around three finalists: Chi Hang Lo for AV Professional of the Year, UCLA’s Classroom Modernization Pilot for Project of the Year, and HETMA for Best Technical Support. Chi joins to share what the nomination represents, why the UCLA pilot is different, and how the higher ed community lifts each other up through collaboration, shared evaluation, and real-world support. The episode closes with a clear call: go vote, support the people and projects pushing the industry forward, and keep building a better future together.Vote now: https://www.avnation.tv/avnation-best-of-2025-awards/Featured GuestChi Hang Lo — Manager, AV/IT Solutions (UCLA)Leads a team designing and delivering scalable AV + IT solutions that support UCLA’s learning environments and broader smart campus vision.What You’ll Hear in This Episode1) Why this episode, and why nowA bonus Friday release to interrupt the usual schedule and highlight the AV Nation Awards as a uniquely people-driven recognition.Joe frames Readers’ Choice as a rare moment for the industry to advocate for the people, projects, and platforms that matter most to the community.2) The three higher ed finalistsChi Hang Lo — AV Professional of the Year finalistUCLA — Project of the Year finalist for the Classroom Modernization PilotHETMA — Technical Support finalistJoe emphasizes how significant it is to see higher ed represented across multiple major categories in the finals.3) The UCLA Classroom Modernization Pilot: what makes it specialChi explains why the pilot stands out as more than a refresh—it’s a different way of thinking:Moving from traditional room-by-room AV to a cloud-first, scalable control approach designed for enterprise scale (think: up to 1,000 spaces).Leveraging web technologies, REST APIs, and integrations to enable flexibility, interoperability, and future growth.Building for adaptability so the system isn’t locked to one manufacturer ecosystem—prioritizing integration-first design and long-term scalability.Aiming toward a platform approach: “AV as a platform” that can support more than AV control.4) The “why” behind going cloud-firstJoe asks the question everyone asks: why not just keep doing “simple” AV? Chi’s answer points to:Preparing t

Higher Ed AV PodcastEpisode 341Joe Way welcomes a packed house of HETMA leaders and volunteers to keep the pre-ISE 2026 hype rolling—this time with a full crew heading to Barcelona and a bigger presence than ever: two booths, expanded media coverage, and a brand-new stop on the itinerary, the EdTech Congress.Together, the group breaks down what attendees (and the folks following from home) can expect from ISE’s massive show floor, how HETMA is curating a higher-ed experience overseas the same way it does at InfoComm, and why this year is a pivotal “bridge” year as ISE and EdTech Congress move toward deeper integration in 2027. Along the way: practical survival tips (shoes, strategy, and navigation), sponsor/content plans, community events, and—because it’s HETMA—plenty of laughs.Guests FeaturedBC Hatchett — Director of Classroom Technology, Vanderbilt University; HETMA Co-FounderErin Maher-Moran — IT Manager for Classroom Technology, Johns Hopkins University; HETMA ChairTroy Powers — Support Team Lead, Northwestern University; HETMA Vice ChairDustin Myers — Manager of Technology Support, John A. Logan College; HETMA Two-Year At-Large Board MemberTeddy Murphy — AV Systems Engineer / AV Team Lead, University of Pikeville; HETMA One-Year At-LargeAtkins Fleming — Assistant Director for Learning Spaces, Texas State University; HETMA TreasurerChris Kelly — Senior IT Support Specialist, Creighton University; HETMA Advisory Board ChairRyan Gray — Joins late; shares excitement for EdTech Congress + real-time coverageWhat You’ll Learn / Key Topics1) The Big Picture: Why HETMA is “Going Bigger Than Ever” at ISEFrom “backpack + lockers” guerrilla mode to a full booth presenceWhy HETMA’s mission overseas is the same as at InfoComm: community, connection, and curationHow HETMA serves both audiences:the people at the showand the higher-ed community back home who can’t travel2) ISE for First-Timers: What to Expect + How to NavigateISE is massive (and feels like it) — plan intentionallyPractical navigation “aha’s”:the second floor as the fast routejumping outside between halls to move quickerTactical show-floor advice:Start away from the main entrance mob (Hall 8 / work backwards)Dedicate time blocks per hall (don’t rely on “wandering” like smaller shows)3) EdTech Congress: Why It MattersHETMA expands beyond “just AV” to broader EdTech and learning spacesEdTech Congress is described as a “European EDUCAUSE-style” experience (in spirit)This year is a transition year: separate events/locations, but building toward a combined futureHETMA’s role: bridge the gap, meet new communities, and amplify what higher ed needs4) The Next A

Higher Ed AV PodcastEpisode 340In this special episode, Joe Way is joined by Sahil Dhingra, Cofounder Founder/Host, AV SuperFriendsWhy this conversation matters (higher ed context)Higher ed teams are increasingly operating like in-house integrators, but many don’t have the same tools or documentation workflows as traditional integrators. This episode focuses on how XTEN-AV can become the “single source of truth” for BOMs, schematics, rack elevations, cable schedules, proposals, and handoff documentation without living in a mess of disconnected spreadsheets and files.Key HighlightsJoe frames the session as tips, tricks, and power-user workflows—not a sales pitch—plus a reminder that opinions shared are personal/experience-based.Sahil explains why higher ed tends to be a strong fit: more aligned workflows, more realistic expectations for subscription software, and strong adoption/retention patterns.Chris shares his “power user” reality: hundreds of projects, a massive personal library, and a workflow that covers schematics, rack elevations, lectern layouts, and internal labor tracking—all in one platform.A major theme: standardization + rapid duplication (template room types) while still allowing the “departmental one-off” variations that always come back 1–2 years later.Real-world documentation strategy: don’t overwhelm clients with a full BOM unless requested; give them a clear scope and a number—keep flexibility for substitutions and supply chain changes.Sahil demos the ecosystem: XTEN-AV modules (drawing, docs/proposals, project management) plus the AI layer (XAVIA) and how it can generate a starting design fast. The “time savers” get loud: auto cable schedules, front elevations, submittals/spec-sheet bundles, and export options for downstream workflows.ISE teaser: improvements to AI personalization, plus better organization for multi-room/multi-floor projects and “areas” that let multiple rooms live under one umbrella.Training question answered: XTEN-AV describes an onboarding approach with dedicated support/CSM access early on (as discussed in the session). Practical takeaways (tips & tricks you can steal immediately)Start with a project you already know (ideally one you just completed). You’ll learn faster when the room

This week, Joe Way kicks off another “January Push for ISE” episode with a big announcement: a brand-new education-focused collaboration happening alongside ISE 2026, EdTech Congress Barcelona (Feb 4–5). Joined by Alicia Berlanga, Cluster Manager for the Spanish EdTech Cluster, the conversation explores the event, its partnership with Integrated Systems Europe, and the ways the event supports the education vertical.Alicia Berlanga — Cluster Manager, EdTech Cluster SpainFormerly spent ~15 years at the Technical University of Catalonia working on international e-learning/education technology projects (starting in 1999)Later led professional training schools in Madrid and Barcelona for ~7 yearsNow leads the EdTech Cluster, bringing together companies, universities, schools, foundations, and associations to advance technology’s role across education and training1) What an “EdTech Cluster” is (and why it’s a big deal)Alicia explains the European “cluster” model—built around industry innovation and shared mission (inspired by Michael Porter’s work analyzing ecosystems like Silicon Valley). The cluster functions like an association, but with an innovation-first mandate that intentionally connects the ecosystem.EdTech Cluster Spain’s five core tracks:Market / networking: grow the sector through member connectionsInnovation: collaborative projects (including interoperability challenges in education)Internationalization: global connection and partnership (hello, HETMA)Talent: building the pipeline into edtech rolesShared value: reinforcing the social impact of education + technology2) What EdTech Congress Barcelona is:Alicia breaks down the congress as Spain’s flagship EdTech event—two days, ~2,000 attendees, and a full stakeholder mix: schools, universities, corporate learning, companies, and public administration.Congress structure highlights:Keynotes in a large auditorium + multiple parallel tracksTracks spanning K-12, universities, professional training, corporate, and public administrationA deliberate effort to bring public-sector education leaders into conversations about ethics, AI, and guidance frameworks3) The 2026 theme: AI, but more human—and more interdisciplinary:Rather than treating AI as “just software,” this year’s program expands the lens with voices from outside the usual tech circuit, including:AI experts from industry and educationA philosopherA writer focused on the topicA paleoanthropologist (including work connected to the famous excavations)Plus mention of high-profile education leadership voices (including a former U.S. Department of Education deputy director)The goal: a holistic view of AI’s impact on learning, culture, and the future of the human “digital brain.”4) Why aligning with ISE matters (and what changes in 2026 vs 2027):Alicia explains the timi

Epsiode 338Byron Tarry, NEXXTNEXXT eXplore ISE '26Joe Way kicks off the pre-ISE preview series (and debuts a new AI-made bumper) with Byron Tarry, Chief Transformation Officer of NEXXT, the industry initiative focused on AI-era transformation in pro-AV. Together they unpack why AI isn’t “a tool” so much as a toolbox and why the real opportunity isn’t slapping “AI” on products, but transforming how we run organizations, measure outcomes, and evolve the AV industry from “hanging stuff on walls” to delivering accountable, data-driven collaborative experiences.They also preview NEXXT eXplore ISE ’26, a free, two-day leadership + innovation + hands-on program happening Sunday–Monday, February 1-2, 2026, before the ISE show floor opens, built to serve everyone from executives to frontline technicians.Why “NEXXT” exists:AI went from abstract to tangible (hello, ChatGPT), but many people felt overwhelmed by the “you should be doing something” pressure.The AV industry lacked a trusted, industry-native voice to help people translate AI hype into real strategy and action.Byron’s core belief: AV is the collaboration industry, so we should be leading the AI collaboration moment, not waiting on others.Where AI fits in AV (beyond buzzwords):Byron challenges “AI = product feature” thinking. Cameras tracking aren’t new; stickers don’t equal strategy.The bigger play is business model transformation, especially around:Analytics (measuring outcomes, not just uptime)Automation (workflow redesign, not just faster ticket queues)Agents (proactive digital collaborators inside meetings and learning spaces)Culture, leadership, and the “reinvested hour”:If AI saves two hours, don’t just fill it with more work—reinvest time into experimentation to build an innovation culture.This isn’t just for executives—Byron emphasizes that technicians and digital natives can lead in this moment, too.Featured Event: NEXXY eXplore ISE ’26 (For Free!):Registration & schedule: https://ise.nexxtnow.comCost: $0 (free to attend)Format: Three blocks across Sunday–Monday, designed for different personas (exec → practitioner → builder)Sunday (Feb 1): Leadership & CultureExecutive-focused session on leading through rapid change, empowering teams, and breaking legacy norms.Featured speaker: Richard Mulholland (irreverent, disruptive, “inside outsider” perspective—rock roadie turned events leader, now AI consultancy)Additional leadership challenge content including competitive intelligence and new entrants reshaping the space.Ends with informal networking + a reception (“a libation or two” for creativity).Monday (Feb 2) Morning: Innovation MethodologyInnovation isn’t magic, it’s

Higher Ed AV PodcastEpisode 337The Long-Awaited Special Guest EpisodeIn this special episode of the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe welcomes a long-awaited guest, his wife, Amy, for a candid, hilarious conversation that pulls back the curtain on their life behind the scenes. Together, they reflect on the sacrifices, support, and real-world tradeoffs that shaped Joe’s career journey, balancing ambition, family, and the grind of leadership. The episode closes on a powerful note as Amy shares a message about grace and contentment, reminding listeners they don’t have to build their lives alone.The conversation opens with pure “Way household” energy, Joe and Amy playfully spar over his signature intro, the pressure of being on video, and what it’s like stepping into a space where thousands of listeners feel familiar, even if Amy would rather stay behind the scenes. Joe admits he rarely scripts episodes, but tries this time… only to watch it immediately go off the rails in the best way. It’s light, authentic, and sets the tone for an episode that feels more like a front-porch conversation than a formal interview.From there, they move into the real stuff: their blended family, the behind-the-curtain reality of Joe’s career trajectory, and the seasons where Amy carried extra weight at home while Joe pursued degrees and chased the next calling. Amy speaks candidly about what that looked like day-to-day with kids, schedules, dinner, the emotional load while Joe acknowledges the cost and names something many leaders forget. Career growth is rarely an individual accomplishment… it’s often built on unseen support, shared sacrifice, and a partner willing to hold the rope while you climb.They also take a fun detour through “conference life” as Amy describes being dropped into the pro AV world with trips to Barcelona and Bangkok, rooftop bars, industry personalities, and the moments that made her realize this community is both nerdy and genuinely relational. But her sharpest insight comes as an outsider looking in… Titles don’t impress her, character does. That perspective becomes a mirror for Joe’s imposter syndrome and constant drive for “more,” and it lands as a timely lesson for leaders: not everyone is chasing the same ladder, and success isn’t always promotion, it’s alignment with what matters most.By the end, this episode stops being “Joe finally got Amy on the mic” and becomes an enduring a reminder that the best leadership is anchored before it’s amplified. The laughs are real, but so is the message… Ambition without connection will always feel hollow, and achievement without gratitude will never feel like enough. Whether you’re building a career, a team, or a legacy, the takeaway is simple, don’t do it alone. Let faith, community, and the people who truly know you keep you grounded, so the life you’re building is one you can actually live.Connect with Joe Way:Web: <a hr

Joe Way returns to his “annual Christmas episode” roots with a personal reflection recorded during Christmas week. Using Isaiah 9:6 as the backbone, Joe walks through the four names—Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace—and connects them to a transformational year of health, leadership growth, humility, and a renewed focus on peace (both internal and relational). He also previews what’s ahead: a special episode next week, followed by four weeks of ISE prep with guests.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy Joe brought back the classic Christmas episode format: reflection, grounding, and meaning—not “Santa’s bag of stuff.”The headline transformation this year: lifestyle change and losing nearly 80 pounds since ISE.A leadership reframe: moving from “my strength” to humility, team, and reliance on something bigger than yourself.The core theme: Isaiah 9:6 as a lens for personal growth and professional leadership in AV.A practical challenge for listeners: where are you seeking peace, and how are you creating it for others?Key Scripture AnchorIsaiah 9:6 (referenced throughout):“For to us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”Segment Breakdown1) Welcome + Christmas Episode ResetJoe explains this is his Christmas-week reflection tradition.He’s intentionally letting the episode “come to him” rather than over-scripting it.Quick look ahead: special episode next week + four-week ISE guest series.2) A Transformational YearThe visible milestone: major weight loss since last ISE.The deeper shift: re-centering priorities, stepping back from nonstop tasks, and choosing what’s sustainable.3) Wonderful CounselorJoe shares a “coming to Jesus” moment post-ISE: needing change, recognizing willpower alone wouldn’t hold.The takeaway: strength isn’t always self-generated; it can come from faith, community, and trusted counsel.AV tie-in: your “counselor” can include your people—team, mentors, leaders, support systems—especially in high-demand roles.4) Mighty GodA meditation on power + humility: the Creator arriving as a vulnerable infant.Leadership parallel: real strength can show up through vulnerability, not force.AV tie-in: your work serves a mission bigger than tickets and installs—education changes lives; uptime supports outcomes.5) Everlasting FatherA leadership responsibility theme: consistency, integrity, safety, and support.Joe connects this to a hard year in higher ed (budget pressure, freezes, uncertainty) and the need for a stable foundation.AV tie-in: being the leader (at any level) who creates security—resources, clarity, and space for others to succeed.6) Prince of PeaceJoe frames this as a 2026 focus: peace isn’t just

Higher Ed AV Podcast335: Joe Way's Thanksgiving Episode In this special solo Thanksgiving episode of the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way steps “back to the roots” of the show with a reflective, unscripted gratitude list and a peek at what’s coming next. He explains recent changes to the podcast format including, inviting with executive and AV-adjacent guests, episodes stuck in limbo, and a refreshed bumper, while recommitting to the heart of the show… Elevating tech managers and support professionals across the higher ed AV vertical. He also teases the traditional Christmas episode and a mysterious “special” episode to close out the year, before resetting the show’s direction for 2026.Joe then walks through an extended, deeply personal ten-part gratitude list that tracks not just his career, but his growth as a leader, husband, father, and grandfather. He starts with his work at UCLA, celebrating how the Digital Spaces team and campus IT leadership have come together through reorgs, budget pressures, and shifting higher ed realities to form one cohesive, people-first organization. From there he turns to HETMA, reflecting on how the alliance has matured beyond being “the Joe show” into a global advocacy force led by a broad slate of passionate volunteers which is proof that organic leadership and shared ownership can outgrow any single personality.He highlights emerging leaders on his team by name, honoring how they’ve stepped into awards, recognition, and responsibility, and uses that to encourage listeners to seek mentorship, ask their bosses for development opportunities, and be bold about their own growth. Joe also expresses gratitude for a breakout year of speaking and writing, framing it as the “ten-year overnight success” of his higher ed journey and urging aspiring thought leaders to start small, stay consistent, and leverage platforms like Higher Ed AV to find their voice.The episode moves into more vulnerable territory as Joe thanks the wider AV channel, integrators, manufacturers, and media partners, for friendships that now feel less transactional and more like true community. He openly acknowledges a difficult year personally and emotionally, sharing how his family, especially his wife and grandson Frankie, anchored him through loss, change, and some unhealthy coping patterns. That honesty sets up his gratitude for a major physical and spiritual reset: losing a dramatic amount of weight, changing his conference habits, re-engaging in church and ministry, and rediscovering a sense of purpose rooted in service rather than hustle.Joe also talks about learning to value rest and work–life blend, discovering that golf, writing, and podcasting can be forms of healthy release instead of just more work. He challenges listeners to examine their own “why,” to decide whether their jobs are just paychecks or vehicles for impact, and to be intentional either way. Finally, he comes full

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Peter Murphy Lewis, CEO and Fractional CMO of Strategic Pete, to the show. They discuss his role, evolving from teaching and to personal branding. Learn how to discover who your are, how to make true personal connection with others, and use that for professional growth. Watch and listen!Connect with Peter Murphy Lewis:Web: https://strategicpete.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermurphylewis/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 Matt Bolton, AV Design Engineer at the University of Nebraska, to the show. They discuss his role and career trajectory, and navigating across a university system, designing with intentionality, and working with external teams. Oh, and some huntin'. Watch and listen!Connect with Matt Bolton:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-bolton-030371107/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 David Morales, CIO and SVP of Technology at Western Governors University, to the show. They discuss his role overseeing a global technology solution for an expansive online university. David offers advice on how to get the most from your teams, how to present your project proposals, and the power of data and student experience. They navigate how to run large-scale online infrastructure with reliability and security, using AI to personalize the student learning journey, creating a decision intelligence framework that applies real time data to education, and lessons from prior leadership roles and how we applies them to higher ed. Watch and listen!Connect with David Morales:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moralesdavid/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 Leom Holley, Assistant Chief Information Officer (ACIO) of Infrastructure Services at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), to the show. They discuss Leom's role, how to manage a large enterprise organization, creating the community and strategic plan, a business mindset, and the importance of aligning with campus partners for success. Oh, and there may be a pretty influential hot take about pizza. Watch and listen!Connect with Leom Holley:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leomholley/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 Stephanie Orr, Director, Learning and Collaborative Environments, at The Ohio State University, to the show. They discuss her role overseeing space strategy, design, and the AVS group. Stephanie discusses gaining consensus through voice-of-the-customer and how to gain student feedback and input when it comes to designing the classroom and learning space experience. Oh, and don't miss the Halloween hot take. Watch and listen!Connect with Stephanie Orr:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orrville/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 Matt O'Reilly, Manager, Events and Classroom Technology, at the University of Toronto Mississauga, to the show. They discuss Matt's role and career trajectory, the differences in commerical integration and live events, the AVIXA certification committee, power of CTS, and involvement in the AV industry. Oh, and we play a fun game of overrated-underrated. Watch and listen!Connect with Matt O'Reilly:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-oreilly-cts-d/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 Marc Cholewczynski, Associate Director of Academic Technology at Oregon State University, to the show. They discuss Marc's role, career at OSU, and the value in being able to work across your org. They also touch on the direction of AV, both audiovisual and "automation and visualization." And of course, they hit on a little AV Superfriends. Watch and listen!Connect with Marc Cholewczynski:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-cholewczynski/Connect with AV Superfriends:Web: https://www.avsuperfriends.comConnect 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 Daniel Wray, AV Field Tech at the University of Virginia to the show. He discusses his career trajectory, how he moved from a music background into commercial AV, and the power of community. Oh, and maybe there's some breakdancing involved? Watch and listen!Connect with Daniel Wray:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamdanieldanielwray/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 Lex Evans, Account Manager, Corporate AV & Live Events at Epiphan Video to duscuss her new role and journey through higher ed. Lex offers insights on how her nine years working in the higher ed vertical helped her take the next step into the corporate side. She offers advice for others on how to take the next steps in their careers and the value of involving yourself in the community. Oh, and she gives her exit interview of Joe. Watch and listen!Connect with Lex Evans:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howdyitslex/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 Tim Neviska, Senior Audiovisual Solutions Manager at Kenyon College. They discuss Tim's career trajectory, daily role, differences in running events and commercial integration, and changes in the industry. Also, we talk the county fair and pork advocacy in likely the best "rapid round" in the show's history. Watch and listen!Connect with Tim Neviska:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-neviska-875b331b/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, we are presenting a replay of Episode 30 from March 12, 2019. Chris Neto and Mark Coxon takeover the show where Joe Way and BC Hatchett announce the launch of HETMA. Check out their early vision and compare to how the organization has taken off in only six years. Watch and listen!Connect with Chris Neto:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherneto/X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/chris_netoConnect with Mark Coxon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcoxon2/X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AVPhenomConnect with BC Hatchett:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bc-hatchett-88746312/X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/bchatchettConnect with HETMA:Community: https://community.heta.orgWeb: https://www.hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hetmaX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/hetma_orgConnect 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 replays the HETMA Press Conference annoucning the #RoadTo10K initiative. On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Erin Maher-Moran, Troy Powers, Joe Way, and BC Hatchett introduced the most life-changing and ambitious goal in the history of HETMA, aimed at strengthening both the organization and the membership. Watch and listen!Connect with HETMA:Community: https://community.heta.orgWeb: https://www.hetma.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hetmaX (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/hetma_orgConnect 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 Chris Kelly, Senior IT Support Specialist to the show. They discuss his move into higher education, the value in goin "all-in" when getting involved, and the future of HETMA and the advisory council. Watch and listen!Connect with Chris Kelly:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-kelly-272155122/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 InfoComm 2025 spotlight, we meet Jeff VandeHoef and Jeremy Meyer from CableEZ, whose deceptively simple hardware is solving a frustrating and costly AV problem: disappearing or damaged cables. Born out of classroom experience, CableEZ offers customizable, wall-mounted solutions that lock cables in place, relieve connector stress, and drastically reduce downtime. It’s low-tech, high-impact, and already showing up on campuses where IT teams are tired of chasing missing HDMI cords and broken USB-C ports.

In this InfoComm 2025 follow-up, BC Hatchett sits down with Jeff Meyer of Inogeni to unpack what the Canadian AV engineering firm showcased this year — and why it matters for higher ed. Jeff walks us through the launch of the IP2USB converter for NDI camera integration, the new TOGGLE DOCK for affordable BYOD/BYOM in huddle spaces, and a wall plate version of the uBridge 3 USB extender. With all products shipping soon and designed around real-world use cases, Inogeni’s focus on simplicity, reliability, and higher ed priorities makes them a standout for campus AV teams.

In this post-InfoComm 2025 conversation, Ryan catches up with Steve Bogart from Atlona, who shares what the company rolled out during the show season — even though he missed the booth due to an unfortunate fishing accident. Steve walks us through Atlona’s new USB/HDMI transmitter switcher, a flexible SDVoE matrix, and an upgraded room scheduling gateway. The discussion touches on open architecture, real-world integration for higher ed AV, and why Atlona is leaning into local events and feedback-driven development. It’s a grounded, practical look at AV evolution from a partner who’s still showing up — just on crutches.

At InfoComm 2025, HETMA’s BC Hatchett sat down with Kaleo Lee and Sophia Negyesi from Korbyt to explore how the company is moving beyond traditional digital signage and toward a full-fledged communication platform. While BC’s mic was faint in the recording, the conversation still captured strong insights into Korbyt’s push for targeted, cross-channel content delivery — reaching students, faculty, and staff where they are. From live data dashboards to personalized campus messaging, Korbyt is thinking bigger than screens — and aiming to become a core part of higher ed’s communication ecosystem.

In the constant buzz of InfoComm 2025, some booths felt like product launch parties. Others felt like technical deep dives. But the Huddly booth? That felt like a conversation — about flexibility, AI, and how hybrid learning is (still) reshaping what we ask from cameras in higher education spaces.Shadi Tefagh, Huddly’s Senior Marketing Director for the Americas, met up with HETMA’s Ryan Gray to talk about where Huddly is headed, what they brought to booth 4415, and why their very first all-in-one video bar is more than just a checklist item. The message throughout: Huddly’s evolving — and listening.

Live from InfoComm 2025, Daryl Krall of Panasonic joined HETMA to walk through their higher ed-ready AV portfolio — including laser projectors, PTZ cameras, and centralized control tools. With a calm, focused booth presence and a no-nonsense product lineup, Panasonic showed they’re listening to what higher ed actually needs: reliability, interoperability, and gear that stays out of the way and just works.

This week on the Higher Ed AV Podcast, Joe Way welcomes Matt Kaminski, Audio Visual & Digital Services Program Director, at the University of California, Berkeley on the show. They discuss his career trajectory through UC Berkeley, his previous award winning projects, some upcoming projects (without breaking any NDAs), and some top takeaways from #InfoComm25 and HETMA. Watch and listen!Connect with Matt Kaminski:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieu-kaminski/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

Live at InfoComm 2025, Richard Hunt of Sharp joined HETMA at the booth to talk through Sharp’s latest launches for higher ed — including long-life laser projectors, interactive displays, and a renewed focus on supporting standardized, sustainable AV across campus. With steady booth traffic and honest conversations, the takeaway was clear: Sharp isn’t chasing trends; they’re solving real problems for real schools.

From the InfoComm 2025 show floor, Rob Abbott joined HETMA at the Nureva booth to break down how their new HDX Series is making large room audio simpler for higher ed teams. He highlighted the launch of the HDL410, designed for lecture halls and complex teaching spaces, and emphasized how Nureva’s approach—shaped by real feedback from schools—is all about fast installs, scalable management, and intuitive tools that let campus AV teams focus on users, not gear.

Live from the HETMA booth at InfoComm 2025, Ryan Budvitis of Shure talks about new products designed to simplify and scale campus audio — including IntelliMix Room Kits, the ANX4 network extender, and Microflex Wireless updates. He shares how his team works directly with colleges and universities to gather feedback that shapes Shure’s development process. The tone is honest, collaborative, and focused on removing friction from everyday AV workflows.

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.