AV SuperFriends: On Topic: Recent Episodes

AV SuperFriends

The AV SuperFriends discuss design, installation, and support of classroom and commercial AV integrations.

AV SuperFriends: On Topic
"I Bet They're Super Tech-Savvy"

Recorded October 24, 2025

In this Thanksgiving special, the crew gathers at the bustling Circus Circus in Las Vegas (by way of theater of the mind). Chris, Jamie, Marc, Larry, Justin, and special guest Frank Alaimo, dive into the chaos of AV integration during the holiday season, while serving up piping hot takes and mashed-up opinions.

As they navigate the complexities of holiday technology requests, the conversation hilariously veers into the world of DIY AV setups, unexpected tech purchases, and the challenges of integrating consumer-grade equipment into professional environments. From the infamous ‘hockey puck’ microphones to the wild world of Raspberry Pi lighting setups, nothing is off the table.
So loosen your belts, grab a plate, and settle in for a feast of sound, humor, and a few too many turkey puns!

Connect with Frank: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-alaimo-cts-i-01872466/

AI-generated alternate show titles:
* Turkey Talk and Tech Troubles * A Thanksgiving Roundtable of AV Shenanigans * Gravy and Gadgets * A Thanksgiving AV Extravaganza * A Turkey-Themed AV Roundtable

Far superior human created alternate show titles:
* When you see people on stilts, you know it’s a fancy joint * This is actually fulfilling one of my life goals * Mistakes were made * The Whoa-Pro! * It works right out of the box * A hockey puck USB mic * It has little legs on it, maybe not * The turducken of meeting rooms * They start banging it out and you’re like “Oh!” * What do you think is going on in this classroom, dude? * This is news to me! * An army of fruit rolling around

We stream live every Friday at about 315p Eastern/1215p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website:https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss
Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends: On Topic - I hope AQAV isn’t listening to this…

Recorded September 19, 2025

It’s October, and the AV SuperFriends are leaning into the spooky season with a conversation that’s equal parts eerie and insightful. They tackle some of the haunted house problems in higher ed AV: ghost signals that won’t quit, obsolete equipment that seems impossible to kill off, and the slow creep of outdated standards lurking in classrooms everywhere.

Joining the discussion are special guests Gary Cummins Indiana University and Neal Feuerhelm from the University of Illinois, who weigh in on how their campuses are handling the monsters of modernization. From faculty demands for shiny new gear to the challenges of keeping hundreds of teaching spaces alive and stable, the group debates what’s worth upgrading, what’s better left buried, and how to keep technology aligned with real teaching and learning goals.

And since it wouldn’t be fall without a little football, the episode features a spirited Weekly Rivalry matchup between Illinois and Indiana. Much like on the gridiron, each university makes its case for AV dominance, touting classroom innovations, campus traditions, and the resilience of their teams. The friendly trash talk goes into overtime with lightning-round questions and leaves listeners with one key takeaway: in higher ed AV, rivalries may be playful, but the commitment to delivering reliable, effective teaching technology is very real.

Connect with our guests:
* Gary Cummins - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-cummins-5690026b/ * Neal Feuerhelm - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nfeuerhelm/

AI-generated Alternate Episode Titles:
* Spooky Trends & a Big Ten Showdown * Ether Killer and the Haunted Classroom * When Old Gear Refuses to Die * Spooky Season, Creepy Standards, and a Big Ten Showdown * Ghosts in the Machine: Higher Ed’s Halloween Special * Haunted Touch Panels and Other AV Nightmares * Rivalries, Revenants, and Room Schedulers

Far Superior Human-Generated Alternate Show Titles:
* You want all those ports back? * They went from putting everything on there to nothing * There’s not enough of it to justify putting in a special thing * Are you too busy to finish a thought? * Your standards are at random heights * The consumerification of all our AV products * That meant it was dead, not asleep * Either one, I don’t want to do anymore… * Live grounding bus bar * I don’t know how many pools you have on campus * We got a name for that * It involved a lot of lube * Turn it to 11 * You can’t really touch the HTML * It’s the viewer’s problem

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV Superfriends: On Topic
Episode 62

Back-toSchool Chatter

Recorded August 15, 2025

In this episode, Chris, Jamie, Larry, and Justin revel in the chaos and excitement of back-to-school preparations and reminisce about their experiences from ten years ago while tackling the challenges of the new academic year.

The discussion kicks off with a lighthearted look at the absurdities of the back-to-school rush, including the frantic requests from faculty and the inevitable tech hiccups. The team shares their thoughts on how far AV technology has come in the past decade and reflects on the lessons learned along the way. From the struggles of outdated systems to the thrill of new installations, they cover it all.

As they navigate through their own back-to-school stories, the panelists reveal their personal strategies for managing the busy season and keeping their sanity intact.

AI-generated alternate show titles:
* Back to School: AV Edition * Lessons Learned: A Decade of AV * The Back-to-School Survival Guide * AV Flashbacks: 10 Years of Chaos * Tech Trials and Triumphs * From Panic to Preparation * AV SuperFriends: Back to School Madness * Navigating the New School Year

Far superior human created alternate show titles:
* They hibernate and then re-hatch * Looks like an owl winking at you * Everybody loves whiteboards * That whiteboard is structural * These were working before they touched them * You know who didn’t say that? * He… didn’t get fired * It’s my first day! * I’ve been flat on purpose * Dumb questions like “Are you done yet?”

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewczynski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends: On Topic
Episode 61: The statute of limitations has run out, right?

Recorded July 11, 2025

In this episode, the goon squad discusses testing AV equipment and the often murky waters of bench testing. Join Chris, Jamie, Larry, and Justin as they share their experiences, opinions, and a few laughs about the realities of ensuring gear works as intended before it hits the field.

The discussion kicks off with a humorous take on the common practice of just throwing gear into new environments without thorough testing. The panelists debate the balance between best practices and the chaotic nature of real-world installations, exploring how much testing is truly necessary and what constitutes effective bench testing. With anecdotes from their own experiences, they explore the risks and rewards of deploying untested gear in high-stakes situations.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with semi-useful advice.

Don't forget to connect with us on social media and share this episode with your fellow AV enthusiasts!

Alternate show titles:
What if it’s an AI camera? * We took most of the cubes out * The biggest non-verbal hedge I’ve ever heard * Our projects are bench tests * We do bench testing randomly * This is not gonna work * It works until it doesn’t * It started blowing up buildings * I got a spare widget that I know works * We were doing some weird sht * I’m just jacking around * Maybe Jesus doesn’t like your network * I trust you nerds most of the time * Our testing begins during the semester

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀

► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends On Topic Episode 60: Fourth of July Special

Recorded June 20, 2025

In this explosive Independence Day special, the AV SuperFriends celebrate five years of podcasting with a bang! Join Chris, Jamie, Larry, and Justin as they blow up the things they dislike about AV and IT in higher education.

From cloud-based control systems to oversized DSPs, the panel tackles the industry's most frustrating trends and technologies that have overstayed their welcome. With fireworks and laughter, they share their grievances, offering a cathartic release for anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of modern AV solutions.

Tune in for a fun-filled episode that’s equal parts celebration and critique, and discover what the AV SuperFriends want to blow up next!

If you enjoy this episode, please share it with your fellow AV enthusiasts and consider supporting the AV SuperFriends!

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends On Topic

Episode 59: Don't Skip Friday!

Recorded May 9, 2025

In this episode, the crew gathers for a lively roundtable discussion focused on the upcoming Infocomm trade show. Join Chris, Jamie, Marc, Rachel, Larry, and Justin as they share their excitement and insights about what to expect at the conference, along with their personal agendas and speaking engagements. The conversation is filled with the trademark humor and camaraderie that fans have come to love, as they exchange tips on how to navigate the busy show floor and make the most of the experience.

The team reviews Rachel's five essential tips for a successful Infocomm visit, including the importance of networking, finding the best booths, and leveraging the wealth of knowledge available from industry leaders. Listeners will also hear about the various panels and sessions the AV SuperFriends will be participating in, highlighting their commitment to sharing expertise and fostering community within the AV industry.

Tune in for a fun and informative episode that promises to equip you with everything you need to know before heading to Infocom. If you enjoy this episode, please share it with your colleagues and consider supporting the AV SuperFriends!

News article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/5-tips-breakthrough-infocomm-rachel-bradshaw-hebee/

Alternate show titles:* Blueglass Hills * Stuck in a closet * Summarize in Four seconds * …and he keeps bees! * Point the fifth * Get your LinkedIn house in order * I mean that from the bottom of my heart * You do your job next week * You’re at InfoComm, sir! * And then you run out of underwear * There’s a conclusion at the end * And then I’m spent * Rachel Shanghai’d Marc into a panel * Optimizing Things for Stuff * I don’t think you were ever El Presidente * Built-in tribe of curious people * That was kinda sketchy * Standing Room Only * Don’t give away the secret sauce * I’ve just been letting it go and blaming it on Justin * Sticky floors and cigarette smoke * They’re just sticky for different reasons * That’s a rude thing to call your children * I slept in my car

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website:https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends On Topic Episode 58: Microphone in the Bathroom

Recorded April 18, 2025

In this episode, the gang looks at the chaos and excitement surrounding commencement season in higher education. From the intricacies of AV setups to the humorous mishaps that can occur, our experts share their experiences and insights on managing these large-scale events. Tune in for a blend of technical expertise and light-hearted banter!

We also sneak in a news discussion about the widespread Zoom outage and the ramifications thereof. If nothing else, all the work from home people had a new excuse why they didn’t get anything done for a few hours.

News: https://www.theregister.com/2025/04/17/zoom_outage_godaddy_blamed/

Alternate Show Titles:
* Lick his title * I’m a little behind * Weather channel radio thing * Listserv debauchery * I touched a lot of stuff * Deans are always special * Naturally, they try to cheat * Yell at them! * Fine, I’m out! * Can’t you meet bi-monthly? * Tailgating Commencement * It is a big show! * He said festival, not carnival * Johnny out on the quad * Just in case there’s a streaker

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends On Topic Episode 57: The Other Choice is More Stupid

Recorded March 14, 2025

In this episode, the gang dives into the annual ritual of spring cleaning, sharing their unique takes on what it means to declutter in the AV world. From the challenges of managing outdated equipment to the humorous anecdotes of discovering long-forgotten gear, the panel explores the importance of refreshing and reorganizing their spaces.

Join Chris, Jamie, Marc, Larry, and Justin as they discuss their personal spring cleaning projects, including the hard decisions around legacy systems and the sometimes absurd lengths they go to keep things running. Expect plenty of laughs, insightful commentary, and the camaraderie that only comes from years of shared experiences in the AV field.

Don't forget to share the podcast with your colleagues, and if you enjoy what you hear, consider supporting the AV SuperFriends!

AI-suggested alternate show titles:
* Spring Cleaning: AV Edition * Decluttering the AV Space * Out with the Old: A Spring Cleaning Journey * Legacy Gear and Spring Renewal * The Great AV Purge * Cleaning Up Our Act

Far superior human created alternate show titles:
* Keep throwing bandaids on it * Speaking of things that don’t die * 18 bucks little man * Rapid fire MPS * I didn’t say I liked it * They’re just sitting and I don’t know * Do you know how much money we saved by keeping those in production? * You and me are going to dig this hole together * Hot swaps! * How do normal people deal with that decision making? * The smart choice of the stupid options * Getting rid of all that and putting it out to pasture

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀

► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

===

AV SuperFriends: On Topic Episode 56: Across a student’s lifespan…

Recorded February 19, 2025

In this lively episode, we tackle updating standards amidst fluctuating budgets and the pressure of one-time funds. The discussion also covers the practicalities of AV over IP technology and how it can reshape classroom environments. From the importance of stocking common components to the nuances of managing departmental requests, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in AV management.

Don't forget to share the podcast with your colleagues, and if you enjoy what you hear, consider supporting the AV SuperFriends!

AI-suggested alternate show titles:
* Standards and Surprises * The Art of Budgeting * One-Time Funds and Other Mysteries * Flexibility in AV Standards * Navigating the AV Landscape * The Maze of Standards and One-Time Funds

Human-created alternate show titles:
Let’s put in the network sht and let’s go! * Multiple products rumored to be coming out * What it would look like on my island network * The Kit Bandwagon * You hold it like that * Student changeout * This isn’t Kentucky * North Carolina money * It’s not the stuff, it’s the capabilities * Super Sneakernet * 100 different mistakes * Everything ends up in the “other” bucket * Zoom iPad things * Homegrown Raspberry Pi * We’re not sociopaths here * Expand your mind * Learn more sh*t * That’s Tomorrow Jamie’s hiccup * The Kit of What’s Available * That doesn’t mean you’re sophisticated

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends On Topic: The next big trend in video

Recorded January 17, 2025

It’s February, which means Groundhog Day! On this episode of On Topic, we review the perennial favorites of the IT and AV world that keep coming back year after year, from the trials of consultants to the challenges of wireless display technologies. We cover the ongoing debates around device compatibility, network security, and the ever-elusive search for the perfect microphone system. Plus, we share our experiences with the quirky requests that come from faculty and staff, and the creative solutions we’ve tried to implement (or avoid) over the years.

Don’t miss out on the fun - tune in for a jam-packed episode filled with insights, laughter, and the occasional rant. And remember, your support helps keep the AV SuperFriends rolling, so share the love and spread the word!

Connect with Teddy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teddy-murphy-mba-cts-3a31903b/
Alternate show titles:
Future You Problem * Potential Nickel and Diming * Voodoo magic witchcraft * Equipment to spy on them * China is listening * I ain’t touching that with a 15 ft pole * They couldn’t afford the electric * I told you that sht two years ago * I’ll put it on an island if it works * Show seasons * Wacky-ass aspect ratios * Podunk podunk

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀

► Website:https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss
Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends On Topic: Justin's Theory of Boxes

Recorded December 13, 2025

Welcome to the future!

Join us as we review last year's predictions, with some hits and plenty of misses, and make bold new forecasts for the year ahead. From more Microsoft integration woes to the potential of all-in-one LED displays, there's plenty to discuss and debate. AI-suggested Alternate show titles:
* Predictions, Pontifications, and Preposterous Proclamations * The Future is Now, and It’s Confusing * Consultants, Cabling, and Crystal Balls * AI: Under Every Couch Cushion * The Year of the Kit * More Microsoft, More Problems * Infamous or Illustrious? * The Digital Accessibility Act is Coming * No More Network Islands * USB-C: The Real Deal * A Quarter Dozen Displays * New Boss, New Challenges

Much better alternate show titles by humans:
* Man-dates * Some trash that AI has done * I would argue it’s not there there * Compute of the year * Handy, but gross * Everybody in IT agrees that’s great * Here comes the consultant * We want to see it talk * See everything within without * Quarter dozen

We stream live every Friday at about 300p Eastern/1200p Pacific and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website:https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends: On Topic
Episode 53
"And then this morning happened..."

Recorded November 22, 2024

In this special holiday episode, we explore why we've all landed on AV Santa's naughty list this year. Jamie recounts a PTP clock fiasco, Marc reviews his overly ambitious Teams Rooms rollout, Larry finds himself recommending 21:9 displays, Justin grapples with direct view LED walls and network islands, and Chris rounds it off with tales of outdated equipment and missed opportunities in building renovations.Be sure to join us for our live Christmas special on Friday, December 20th, at 3:30 PM Eastern/12:30 PM Pacific. Stay tuned on social media for more details!

Alternate show titles:* AVoIP belongs on the enterprise * PTP clocks are sneaky little bastards * It’s like teenagers in the 80s * We just drove through fences * Have y’all ever asked the question… * That’s what architects think * When you do them, it’s a bit of a cluster * Every adapter under the sun * They’re really difficult to manage * We all pooh-pooh it * And then this morning happened… * Sea level suites * I haven’t gone wackadoo yet * Microscopes with microphones * The Robin Hood of AV

We stream live on the first and third Friday every month and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀

► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/avsuperfriends.bsky.social
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support Rate and review us on your favorite platform to help spread the word!

AV Superfriends: On Topic
Thanksgiving Special - AV Side Dishes

Recorded October 30, 2024

(I’m still letting AI write this, but I have to edit it more and more recently - cjd)

It's time for a Thanksgiving special with the AV SuperFriends! We’re discussing our favorite AV "side dishes"—those unsung heroes in AV systems that make everything work smoothly.

As they gather for a virtual Thanksgiving dinner, the AV SuperFriends explore the role of HDMI extenders, button panels with built-in processors, and ever-useful IP-controlled power distribution. They also dive into the intricacies of network video decoders and the importance of networking with other institutions to share knowledge and ideas. Plus, they tackle the age-old debate of stuffing versus dressing and the best way to enjoy a Frosty with fries.

But it wouldn't be an AV SuperFriends episode without a bit of mayhem. With overproof rum, cigars, and a homemade crème brûlée flambe on the menu, things get a little heated—literally. Will Lisle's kitchen survive the festivities? Tune in to find out!

Connect with Lisle Waldron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lislew/

Alternate show titles:
AV Side Dishes * Proprietary bootleg weird versions * I tend to not use the weird ones * Here you go; good luck * Off the top of my brain * Shout out to you button panels out there * If you want to redraw and copy my sht * Chicken Noodley * Soup in an IV bag * Let’s go pick your meat * Granola bar soup * That one is more Chinese than most * Events that have a definite beginning and end * There’s no law there * I am the law * A brick of butter * Sanity boxes * The cornerstone of every nutritious breakfast * Shove it up the butt of a bird * Stuffing goes in the bird, dressing goes on the side * Frosty was the first ice cream * The T fell off because he was too drunk

We stream live every Friday, and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com.

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀►

Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rssIndividual Twitter links:► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewczynski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexingDonate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

On Topic Episode 51: The Spookiest Trends in AV

Recorded September 20, 2024 (Yes, I let AI write this - cjd) Welcome to the AV SuperFriends on Topic, episode number 51! In this special October episode, we dive into the scariest trends in AV. From the pitfalls of over-reliance on IT-centric AV solutions to the haunting rise of unrealistic client expectations, this episode is packed with spine-chilling insights and our signature blend of expertise and humor. Today's discussion tackles topics like the overcomplication of AV systems, the dangers of network islands, and the growing frustration with licensing for everyday items. Plus, we share our thoughts on the ever-evolving world of soundbars and the complexities of room systems like Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. Whether you're an AV professional or just someone interested in the latest tech trends, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of laughs. Don't miss out on the fun and make sure to connect with us on our social media channels! Alternate show titles:
* The AV Horror Show * Network Nightmares * Soundbar Madness * Licensing Hell * Room System Woes

Better alternate show titles:
* AV Sprinkles * I give it to them in the wrong space

We stream live every Friday, and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com ▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss Individual Twitter links:► Chris Dechter: @cdechter► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie► Marc Cholewczynski: @avdiplomat► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends: On Topic
Episode 50: Dollars and Sense

Recorded August 16, 2024

(Yes, I let AI write all this stuff - cjd)

Chris Dechter kicks off another Friday afternoon podcast adventure with the AV SuperFriends. Despite a larger panel and some absences, the team dives into the ever-thrilling topic of budgeting in higher education AV systems.Joined by a diverse panel including Marc Cholewczynski, Larry Darling, Justin Rexing, Lyle Waldron, and Donnie Merritt, the discussion revolves around the challenges and strategies of managing AV budgets across various institutions. From differing approaches to budgeting, to the impact of COVID-19 on funding, and the importance of standardization, the team explores how to stretch every dollar while maintaining functionality.They also touch on the importance of being at the table with university executives, understanding the real needs of teaching spaces, and the potential for rethinking AV standards in a post-COVID world.Whether you're dealing with a shoestring budget or trying to make the most of one-time funds, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone involved in higher ed AV management.

Alternate show titles (from AI):* The Budgeting Adventure * Stretching Every Dollar * AV Budget Woes * Standards Are Not Brands * The Art of Budgeting

Article discussed:
https://www.avnation.tv/2024/07/29/the-higher-ed-technology-storm-brewing/

Connect with our guests:
Don Merritt - Director, Instructional Resources at the University of Central Florida
https://www.linkedin.com/in/donmerrittphd/

Lisle Waldron - Manager, Multimedia and Audio-Visual Services at The University of Trinidad and Tobago
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lislew/

Real alternate show titles:* I’m part of Florida now * Magical Money from Heaven * A Wish on a Monkey’s Paw * Faculty don’t care what they’re touching * I’m Justin on an Island * The Good News is I have No Money

We stream live on the first and third Friday every month and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewczynski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing
► Lyle Waldron: @lylewaldron
► Donnie Merritt: @donniemerritt

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AVSuperFriends
On Topic Episode 49: Unique Boutique

Recorded (and streamed live) on July 26, 2024

No topic provided again this month, so we decided to look at the numbers for display technologies. Where does it make sense to consider LCDs vs. projectors vs. LEDs? Chris even built a spreadsheet of rough numbers because he’s a nerd that way. Are LEDs becoming cheap enough to replace projectors? Is anyone building LCD videowalls these days? What are you installing on your campus?

Spreadsheet link: https://tinyurl.com/dkxv92t4

Alternate show titles:
I should have three or four and looking at more
Put the money on the wall

We stream live on the first and third Friday every month and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewczynski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV SuperFriends: On Topic
Episode 48
Frozen Concentrated Orange Juice

Recorded June 26, 2024

No topic was provided this month, so instead we’re going to make this our summer Fourth of July special. So, get out your flags, wake up the kids for the renewal of their annual loyalty oath, fire up the grills, smoker, or barbecue, light off the sparklers and firecrackers, and let’s celebrate America by blowing up a small part of it.

We’ve each collected our favorite AV products, solutions, services, or approaches that we’d like to blow up. Larry doesn’t like formal instructor stations in conference rooms, Marc hates giant card frames, Chris despises giant amplifiers powering only a few loudspeakers, Justin is not a fan of professional PTZ cameras with only USB output, and Jamie detests displays with onboard operating systems.

Happy Fourth of July everyone!

We stream live on the first and third Friday every month and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewycynzski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV Superfriends: On Topic
Episode 47: Just Don’t Do Zero Trust

Recorded (and streamed live) on May 17, 2024

This month’s topic is “InfoComm” so we saw that as an opportunity to discuss what trends we’re seeing, what we’re looking forward to and what types of products we’re looking for at the show. We also teased some of the recordings and events we’ll be attending at InfoComm so follow us on the Tweeters and LinkedIn to find us on the show floor and get some special AVSF swag!

Alternate show titles:
* Networked… Stuff * Zoom-enabled projector * Smart-ish microphone * The secret sauce is the software * No-Jamboard * Is it Azure ready? * Oh, my gawd, no. Larry, that’s wrong.

We stream live on the first and third Friday every month and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewycynzski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV Superfriends: On Topic
Episode 46: A Lazy Mistake

Recorded April 16, 2024

This month’s topic is “Commencement” and we don’t want to talk about that. So, instead, we’re going to talk about working with students, graduating students to the next level of their academic and professional careers, and converting student workers into full time employees.

We stream our recording sessions for On Topic live on or about 3pm Eastern / 12pm Pacific on the third Friday of each month. Follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn to join our next show.

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewycynzski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

Recorded March 15, 2024

It’s time to get out the mops and brooms, clear out those storage closets, gather up all your old Class A amplifiers, analog cameras, and CRT monitors and throw them in the nearest waterway. If anyone asks, you have a permit and you’re just returning those parts to nature. Besides, it’s all biodegradable if you wait long enough…

Marc is getting rid of wires, Larry is removing tiny displays from big rooms, Jamie is throwing away older monitors with weird resolutions, Chris is deleting transport controls, and Justin hates all the remotes with the buttons cut off.
Let’s get cleaning!

We stream our recording sessions for On Topic live on or about 3pm Eastern / 12pm Pacific on the third Friday of each month. Follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn to join our next show.

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀►
Website:https://www.avsuperfriends.com►
Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends►
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends►
Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com►
RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewycynzski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

On Topic Episode 44: The plan was flawless

Recorded (and streamed live) on February 16, 2016

This month’s topic is “rethinking spaces” so we decided to discuss projects that we’ve completed recently that we wish we’d approached differently. Marc hates microphones, Chris hates complexity, Justin hates how the AV services are marketed on campus, Jamie hates treating rooms as clones of one another, and Larry hates blanket approaches (and single monitors on lecterns).

We stream live on the 3rd Friday every month and you can listen to everything we record over at AVSuperFriends.com

Alternate show titles:
* Ninja stars * If you’re not going to do it right, don’t do it at all * Demanding higher quality * That’s not what I mean by kit * We’ve stopped giving everybody everything * They didn’t need that thing to begin with

Donate to AVSF: https://www.avsuperfriends.com/support

AV Superfriends: On Topic
Episode 43: BYOD is an AV Rodent

Recorded January 19, 2024

Our topic for February is “things just won’t go away” or “things that keep coming back year after year” like Groundhog Day. We’ve each selected items that we all hope might see their shadow and disappear for a while. BYOD, VR, terrible marketing, wireless sharing, and more. We’re also testing some format changes to On Topic to keep the show shorter and LIVE on various platforms, so look for those unannounced live streams on the socials.

Alternate titles:
I was thinking about this hard
I still can’t stop
Bad marketing
This is why people strap goggles to their head to visit the zoo
It kinda fluctuates in and out
This is why people think holograms exist
Bring Your Own Goggles

▀▄▀▄▀ CONTACT LINKS ▀▄▀▄▀
► Website: https://www.avsuperfriends.com
► Twitter: https://twitter.com/avsuperfriends
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsuperfriends
► Email: mailbag@avsuperfriends.com
► RSS: https://avsuperfriends.libsyn.com/rss

Individual Twitter links:
► Chris Dechter: @cdechter
► Jamie Rinehart: @avsfjamie
► Marc Cholewycynzski: @avdiplomat
► Rachel Bradshaw: @tempurity
► Larry Darling: @lsdarling1
► Justin Rexing: @justinrexing

On Topic Episode 42: People will start laughing at us
Recorded December 20, 2023

(Part 2 of 2)

It’s our third annual prediction show! And I predict we’ll do it again next year.

We first review our predictions from last year to see just how well we did. Some of us were dead on, others were hit & miss, and yet others seem to be deliberately vague just to claim accuracy regardless of outcome.

Then, we each prognosticate on what to expect in 2024. Much of it seems to be around AI and Teams. Sorry.

This discussion lasted almost an hour, so we split it into two episodes.

Alternate show titles:
Don’t touch my pixels * Don’t go anywhere near that V * I’ve been exposed to more VR * They’re strapping it to every product * Show us on the doll * Blown all over your campus * Justin Time * All unicorns and rainbows * We gotta keep up with our sht

On Topic Episode 41: All of this is just BS
Recorded December 20, 2023

(Part 1 of 2)

It’s our third annual prediction show! And I predict we’ll do it again next year.

We first review our predictions from last year to see just how well we did. Some of us were dead on, others were hit & miss, and yet others seem to be deliberately vague just to claim accuracy regardless of outcome.

Then, we each prognosticate on what to expect in 2024. Much of it seems to be around AI and Teams. Sorry.

This discussion lasted almost an hour, so we split it into two episodes.

Alternate show titles:
Don’t touch my pixels * Don’t go anywhere near that V * I’ve been exposed to more VR * They’re strapping it to every product * Show us on the doll * Blown all over your campus * Justin Time * All unicorns and rainbows * We gotta keep up with our sht

AV Superfriends On Topic
Episode 40: Toys today are so much worse than they were

Recorded November 15, 2023

It’s December, so it’s time for a holiday wishlist! Each of us shares the AV device or service that we’d really like under the Christmas tree. Some of these are real products, others are slight variations on commonly available products, and one requires a time machine.

Merry Christmas, y’all!

Alternate show titles:
I had cool stuff back then
I need it to always work
I have this need
Sketchy at best
Widget world
You can’t have the computer have an internet
I can build you that sh*t tomorrow

AVSuperfirends On Topic
Episode 39: AV Turkeys 2023
Recorded October 27, 2023

Happy Thanksgiving, y’all!

If you recall, last year we accidentally set fire to Marc’s house while trying to deep fry a turkey. This year we all went to Jamie’s house where Larry volunteered to smoke the turkey overnight, which turned out great! While enjoying Thanksgiving dinner, we each shared our thoughts on some AV turkeys– that is, products or services that don’t quite live up to their promises. Marc hates network switches, Larry thinks perhaps we’re overusing ceiling microphone arrays, Justin is skeptical of too many devices based on Android that will become security concerns in the future, Chris likes the concept but hates the execution of wi-fi group microphone apps, and Jamie has given up on fiber-based extenders.

PS: always get the full coverage for your rental car.

--
AV SuperFriends
Web: avsuperfriends.com
Twitter: @AVSuperFriends

On Topic Episode 38: I work in the V department
Recorded Sept 15, 2023

(Part 2 of 2)

Rather than discuss whatever the topic is this month, we decided to challenge ourselves to collaboratively determine how capable of a basic classroom we can put together. Focusing on the capabilities, not the stuff, and given the scenario of a general purpose classroom, about 30 students, single display, and collaboration/hybrid capable, we hashed out just how we’d each approach the system with the ultimate goal of how low we can go. Or, more accurately, how low are we comfortable going and still considering it a fully supportable system.

This discussion lasted almost an hour, so we split it into two episodes.

Alternate show titles
* We all have those closets * Sometimes I’m forced to do things I don’t want to do * There’s way more money in Oregon than Kentucky, y’all * The buttons are razored off * The clocks on those things get funky * Do you have a clapper? * If you hear it in the room, you hear it in Zoom (but not well) * Just focus on the V * Monitored by Putin or something

On Topic Episode 37: They don’t care about the A
Recorded Sept 15, 2023

(Part 1 of 2)

Rather than discuss whatever the topic is this month, we decided to challenge ourselves to collaboratively determine how capable of a basic classroom we can put together. Focusing on the capabilities, not the stuff, and given the scenario of a general purpose classroom, about 30 students, single display, and collaboration/hybrid capable, we hashed out just how we’d each approach the system with the ultimate goal of how low we can go. Or, more accurately, how low are we comfortable going and still considering it a fully supportable system.

This discussion lasted almost an hour, so we split it into two episodes.

Alternate show titles
* We all have those closets * Sometimes I’m forced to do things I don’t want to do * There’s way more money in Oregon than Kentucky, y’all * The buttons are razored off * The clocks on those things get funky * Do you have a clapper? * If you hear it in the room, you hear it in Zoom (but not well) * Just focus on the V * Monitored by Putin or something

Episode 36: This Should Be Better Than My High School
Recorded August 18, 2023

Let’s talk about the Student Experience. And that’s really why we’re all here, isn’t it? We discuss what students are expecting from a university in 2023, advocating for students when no one else will, and crushing everything down to be delivered by Zoom or Teams. After all, we have one chance to get it right; are we cutting corners that puts that all at risk?

After we’re done complaining, we also discuss some good examples of technology-enabled spaces that put the student experience first– esports, maker spaces, informal learning spaces, and more. Alternate show titles: * 80% is great as long as everybody gets it * Students don’t quantify experience * They recognize when they don’t like it * A reason to be in the room * This thing’s a dog turd * The adequate room * The student experience is adequacy * Removing stuff can improve a system * Never do widget-fest * We did not do academic harm * Building community spaces

Follow us on Twitter @AVSuperFriends to stay updated with what we’re doing!

On Topic Episode 35: Questionable Undefined Modalities

Recorded July 21, 2023

We’re joined by Marina Walton from Trinity University to talk Faculty Support covering everything from identifying champions, supporting innovative learning spaces (that everyone hates), engaging department chairs, hosting an IT Open House to put faces to names, adding a personal touch to IT support, and much more. We also discuss an article (and related study) about giving faculty more time to learn and adopt new technologies before deploying them campus wide.

Connect with Marina on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-walton-m-a-ed-cts-884782173/

Article discussed:
https://edscoop.com/faculty-edtech-review-time-survey/

Full report:
https://www.wgulabs.org/posts/cin-faculty-survey-2022-faculty-as-edtech-innovators-moving-beyond-stereotypes-to-promote-institutional-change

Alternate show titles:
* We just figured out how to use the other one * It’s the same thing, just a different name * Biting off that hard bite first * Find the complainers * This has never worked * Of course it works– watch! * Does it turn on, show a picture; don’t worry about it * Just because it works, doesn’t mean it’s a success

Recorded June 13, 2023

We figured since five of the six AV SuperFriends were all in the same building, we’d record our On Topic episode for July. The topic is Showcase Spaces, but rather than review our own showcase spaces, we discuss the general process of developing a showcase space, what the end user clients want, and that’s it’s absolutely, completely possible to have a showcase space that is just terrible in every way and still serve its purpose.

Alternate show titles:
That’s going to take an architect * The finest of the fine stuff * What’s the wow factor * But they look* good

On Topic Episode 33: Tchotchke of Choice / InfoComm Preview

Recorded May 19, 2023

It’s June and for the pro AV world, that means InfoComm… and that happens to be the topic of this month’s episode. Our download numbers show that you’re likely listening to this before you travel to Orlando, so this episode is all about what we’re doing all week long. Justin is teaching a 3-day course, Chris is leading a HETMA workshop, Larry is presenting a case study, and we’re recording and publishing every day, so look for a glut of content.

If you’re listening to this episode after InfoComm 2023, you can score us on our predictions and plans. See you in Orlando, y’all!

AV Superfriends: On Topic
Episode 32
"I'm Not Much of a Top Hat Guy"

Recorded April 14, 2023

Is it over yet? While the topic for this month’s show wasn’t clear, it was assumed to be about the approaching end of the school year. Instead, we opted to discuss technologies that we’re just sick and tired of discussing. And, if you know us, you know we just love VR and the metaverse. And while we don’t wish anyone ill will, we do enjoy our schadenfreude.

News articles:
* https://www.wsj.com/articles/disney-eliminates-its-metaverse-division-as-part-of-companys-layoffs-plan-94b03650 * https://futurism.com/the-byte/virtual-metaverse-real-estate-trouble * https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-03-26/apple-reality-headset-details-pro-features-top-100-meeting-watch-like-start-lfpgdgdb * https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/26/technology/apple-augmented-reality-dissent.html

Alternate show titles:
* Curved-D * Mass Deployment Everywhere All the Time * I didn’t mean to be intentional * Would you say I have a plethora? * It’s swinging and we’re just jamming stuff in there * Smarthat * Strap the thing to your ass

====

On Topic Episode 31: Pull the Stick Out

Recorded March 10, 2023

Who wants some riveting discussion of IT budgeting? Yeah, neither do we, but we make a heckuva effort to stay awake for this. Chris budgets projects with massive contingencies and with market pricing, Marc budgets by time, Larry is concerned about trying to make up all of last year’s projects and complete this year’s projects, Jamie borrows used gear from the rich to give to the poor, and Justin just wants to know “What can I buy today that will last until I no longer work here?”

Alternate titles:
* WAGs and SWAGs * Standard Deviation minus 7 * Sound in the Ceiling * Administrative Swirl * Done Been Learnt

On Topic Episode 30: It’s Trash in the Classroom

Recorded February 10, 2023

It’s the coldest part of winter, so let’s talk Spring Cleaning! Remember to fully submerge your touch panels in bleach before re… oh, not that kind of spring cleaning. We’re joined by Joe Way to talk through our plans for Spring Clinging— that is, what we should be thinking about replacing, what we are holding on to, and what things we should be getting rid of entirely. We all have rooms full of old gear that should go… or should it?

On an unrelated note, we also want to hear from you on 21:9, so head over to Twitter to share your opinion.

Article mentioned by Larry: https://www.ravepubs.com/why-mtr-with-front-row-looks-so-bad/

29: A Premium Experience In Their Own Pocket
AV Superfriends: On Topic

Recorded January 11, 2023

This month’s topic is BYOD and why that’s a terrible idea all around. Wait, it’s not? Well, you’ll have to convince me. We discuss BYOD for conferencing vs. BYOD for presentation only, BYOD for meetings, BYOD for student devices, wired vs wireless connections, why all wireless sharing appliances are bad, and even campus-wide iPad/Chromebook/laptop programs. Larry introduces the term BYODTRTMADETPIF and Justin again reminds us of his (in)famous Zoom Rooms.

Follow us on Twitter @AVSuperFriends to stay updated with what we’re doing!

On Topic Episode 28: Let me get out my genie lamp

Recorded December 14, 2022

It’s our annual prediction show!

But first, a Festivus Miracle— ClearOne and Shure have settled their dispute over squares, or whatever it was.

Anyway, we review our predictions from January 2022 to see how right (or wrong) we were and then make bold predictions for 2023. Marc talks AR and VR, Chris foresees a student-driven redefining of the college experience, Rachel is both impressed and creeped out by AI, Jamie sees increased training and development for instructors, Justin expects someone to buy Zoom (Amazon? Apple?), and Larry says we’ll all be using Microsoft Teams more than Zoom.

Article discussed: https://www.avnetwork.com/news/shure-clearone-have-reached-global-settlement

27: Holiday Wishlist (B&H Convenience Store) | AV Superfriends: On Topic

Recorded October 26, 2022

In the spirit of American retail annual sales scheduling, here’s a holiday episode recorded in October. Our theme for this show is stocking stuffers, so we all have a little gift to share (aka a “recommendation”) or something from our AV wish list that will hopefully arrive soon. Little Marc gives everyone AVoIP decoders, little Chris gives “secret” analog I/O for QSC Cores and wants the perfect button panel controller, little Justin gives everyone an NDI to USB converter, little Jamie also gifts us all an NDI decoder, and little Larry brings a Dante remote decoder from the local corner store.

Don’t forget to join the AV SuperFriends LIVE on Friday, December 9 at 3:00p EST for our holiday spectacular!

AVSF Live: https://avsf.live

Products discussed:
• VANCO Handheld HDMI Tester: https://www.vanco1.com/product/handheld-4k-hdmi-tester/
• BirdDog Pod: https://birddog.tv/pod-overview/
• BirdDog Play: https://birddog.tv/play-overview/
• Focusrite RedNet R1: https://pro.focusrite.com/category/audiooverip/item/rednet-r1

Alternate show titles:
• Fool around at the house
• Jamie learnt me something today
• That’s the gift that keeps on giving the whole year
• Uncle Larry’s at it again
• It’s a twofer learnt day
• Listen to Zoom trash my sound

Follow us on Twitter @AVSuperFriends to stay updated with what we’re doing!

26: AV Turkeys | AV Superfriends: On Topic

Recorded October 21, 2022

For Thanksgiving, the AV SuperFriends all gathered at Marc’s house and stood around the kitchen waiting for the turkey to cook in the indoor deep-fryer. In addition to an assortment of side dishes, we all brought an AV Turkey to share. Marc reminds us of the nonsense of touchless AV control, Chris complains bitterly about wireless sharing appliances, Justin gives up on Stem Audio, Jamie rewinds to multi-cable digital video extension, and Larry despises digital signage. Turkeys all around!

Follow us on Twitter @AVSuperFriends to stay updated with what we’re doing!

On Topic Episode 25: AV Nightmares

Recorded September 28, 2022

In a change of pace, we've collected our scariest and creepiest tales of AV projects, equipment, customers, and support. Join the AV SpookyFriends as we sit around the bonfire and share our tales of fright. Justin brings an Old Kentucky Fable, Marc recounts his End of Summer Waking Nightmare, Larry reminds us that our worst fears can come true during the Year of Good Enough, and Chris visits the Twilight Zone to recount the Needs Analysis of Terror.

Happy Halloween, y’all!

24: I’ll Meet You Halfway Via This USB Adapter | AV Superfriends

Recorded August 19, 2022

This month’s topic is software AV and we couldn’t decide between software AVoIP content, software AV control, or software management platforms, so we’ll cover all three! We start with an article about a semiconductor manufacturer widening software (and hardware) support for SMPTE 2110, which gets us one step closer to HDBaseT-style interoperability… in theory.

Then, it’s a whirlwind tour of software AV content, control, applications, and more. Why are we using legacy thinking when building our networks? Will we ever fully trust the PC to be a true AV endpoint? After all, a huge amount of current content originates from or is delivered to the classroom PC, so why can’t we (reliably) leverage that for multi-protocol high bandwidth content?

Article discussed: https://www.ravepubs.com/macnica-new-software-hardware-smpte-2110/

On Topic Episode 23: Take ‘Em Over and Try to Squeeze ‘Em In

Recorded July 15, 2022

It’s Back to School season! What will the 2022 - 2023 school year bring?

We start with an article from EdSurge about schools who put massive student CRM systems on hold and are now restarting those massive projects. Regardless of how many times we’ve all been through this process, the end result seems to be the same: a litany of complaints, nostalgic stories of the previous system, and plans for the next upgrade.

Then, plans for our Fall terms to start in just a few weeks. Setting expectations based on un-finished projects, mitigating standards to make something work, and delays delays delays. We also prognosticate on what we think will be our top help desk tickets this fall. But, if nothing else, fresh Trapper Keepers for all!

Article discussed:

https://www.edsurge.com/news/2022-06-21-higher-ed-is-investing-in-student-success-tech-is-it-a-new-golden-age-or-just-vague-talk

22: Saying It Smart | AV Superfriends

Recorded June 22, 2022

Have y’all heard of this VR thing? It’s a thing! Or is it… We start with an article about highly customized content for highly specialized academic programs and how that just doesn’t scale. And that leads to a discussion covering everything from shared standards for metaverse content to nursing simulation systems to user generated content.

Then, scope creep. Have you done that thing you didn’t know about and weren’t technically responsible to do? Why does it always seem to fall to AV and IT to take on more than we’re responsible for and clean up others’ messes? Is it because we’re the last ones in the door? Or, because everyone knows we’ll get it done? Probably both.

EdScoop article: https://edscoop.com/virtual-reality-universities-class-design/

NYT article: https://rd.nytimes.com/projects/an-end-to-end-guide-to-photogrammetry-with-mobile-devices

Metaverse Standards: https://metaverse-standards.org/

Follow us on Twitter @AVSuperFriends to stay updated with what we’re doing!

On Topic Episode 21: InfoComm Preview and/or Wrap-up

Recorded May 13, 2022
It’s our annual InfoComm Preview show! Or, if you are listening to this after the first week of June, it’s our annual InfoComm Wrap-up show! Chris, Larry, and Justin will be there in person, so come join us for presentations, tours, and interviews. Or, listen to recordings of those same presentations, tours, and interviews because InfoComm is over! We hash through what we expect to see and hear: Chris is still expecting announcements of heretofore unannounced stuff, Justin is wondering if we’ll see last year’s gear with a new model number, Marc isn’t expecting much of anything and would prefer manufacturers use the show to get product ideas from end users, Larry is expecting only minor announcements, and Jamie is giving up and going to the beach for a the week.

Follow us on Twitter @AVSuperFriends to stay updated with what we’re doing!

On Topic Episode 20: Some Money is Better Than None Money

Recorded April 8, 2022

Working with integrators and consultants is a necessary part of the job for any higher ed AV manager, and the AV SuperFriends have plenty of suggestions to make that process easier. Step 1, don’t give away engineering and design. Step 2, don’t give away consulting and end user interaction. Step 3, don’t give away programming. Step 4, don’t give away integration. In fact, just do it all in house.

Marc has recommendations about working on capital projects, Larry is happy to work with outside experts on highly specialized projects, Chris wants integrator pricing estimates to be honest and not hide costs or overcharge, Justin has a well-established system at WKU of splitting projects into multiple phases so they can be budgeted and contracted separately, and Jamie wants to ensure that if an integrator is engaged, that he is in the loop as the liaison to ensure standards are being met and followed.

We also discuss brining new integrators onboard, building relationships, leveraging multiple suppliers for box sales, and when to expand those relationships with value-added services.

On Topic Episode 19: Letting Our POs Hang Out There
Recorded March 11, 2022

Jamie brings an article that describes two very different experiences with warranty and support… of socks. It’s relevant in a weird way. And in a year when we’re having to be extra flexible with our choices of equipment due to the supply chain madness, it does raise the question of just how much that manufacturer support weighs in our decisions of what to specify.

Speaking of supply chain, let’s talk supply chain! Marc can’t plan for projects, Larry is wary of replacing anything until everything is here, Chris is using the summer for maintenance and staff training, Justin is tired of spending 50% of his time getting asked for schedule updates, and Jamie thinks 2022 might just be the year of deferred maintenance. We’ll check back in 12… 16… 26 weeks…

Article: https://www.residentialsystems.com/blogs/a-tale-of-two-warranties

On Topic Episode 18: In Your Experience Wallet

Recorded February 18, 2022

If we’re discussing emerging technologies in learning spaces, we’re obviously going to talk about the metaverse… but not the one you’re thinking of. Marc brings an article and associated study from Forbes and JP Morgan that reveals the plans that the financial world has for the future. And no, it’s not goggles. Larry also references an article from 2012 that raises many of the same issues. Links are all below.

So, will the metaverse take over classrooms? Not in the Lawnmower Man way you’re thinking, but definitely look for persistent, unique identifiers, NFTs, and blockchain technology to show up in your favorite content platforms, campus LMS, and productivity software. Once that groundwork is in place, look for similar integrations into your AV systems, too. Besides, the goggles do nothing.

Story:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ronshevlin/2022/02/16/jpmorgan-opens-a-bank-branch-in-the-metaverse-but-its-not-for-what-you-think-its-for/amp/

Report:

https://www.jpmorgan.com/content/dam/jpm/treasury-services/documents/opportunities-in-the-metaverse.pdf

Article:

https://dmlhub.net/publications/connected-learning-agenda-for-research-and-design/index.html

On Topic Episode 17: Smalltalk and All That BS

Recorded January 14, 2022

This month’s topic was supposed to be about the return of Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) and the upcoming HETMA Spring conference, but in light of ISE canceling their show (again!) and “rescheduling” to May, we figured it was time to satirize the constant canceling and rescheduling of large tradeshows and conferences by writing them an obituary. So, in loving memory… and such.

HOWEVER… online conferences are emerging everywhere and the AV SuperFriends will be presenting a session at the HETMA Spring conference this month, so go sign up and bring your best questions. The link is below.

This leads to our larger discussion of what the future of events will look like. Will we still have massive national expositions with tens of thousands of people? (Yes) Will we have more and more smaller, more targeted regional tradeshows? (Yes) What about mixed mode events with conference sessions presented locally, remotely, hybrid and everything in between? (Yes, yes, and yes).

Besides, if nothing else, Larry and Chris will be there.

Sign up for the HETMA Spring 2022 Conference: https://www.hetma.org

News: https://www.ravepubs.com/ise-2022-postponed/

16: The Year of I Told You So
AV Superfriends: On Topic

Recorded December 10, 2021

It’s a prediction show! Educause suggests 10 IT-related trends we should all be aware of and we decide they’re not in order, so we’re starting with number 6. As with anything from Educause, it’s highly-researched and detailed, but often just a little too milquetoast for our tastes.

Then each of the SuperFriends has a prediction for 2022. Some of us are suggesting general technologies (blockchain, AVoIP), others are focused more on the adoption of various technologies, and Larry is concerned that after almost two years of working, teaching, and learning from home, that “good enough” will be seen as good enough and cause all sorts of integration and quality issues. Have we really lowered the bar that much? (Yes).

Article: https://www.educause.edu/research-and-publications/research/top-10-it-issues-technologies-and-trends/2022

Connect with the AV Superfriends at AVSuperfriends.com.

Recorded November 17, 2021

It’s the 2nd Annual AV SuperFriends Holiday Show! Yes, we’re recording this in November, even before Thanksgiving, which just feels weird, but such are the necessities of podcast publishing schedules. In return, we’ve added some additional production to the show in the form of not-at-all annoying sound effects and background music!

For our Holiday Show, we couldn’t decide between a standard gift exchange and a White Elephant gift exchange, so we’re doing both… virtually of course. We came up with rules: the gift must be AV-related, must exist in real life, but can cost any amount. It’s a podcast, so play along, folks!

This episode is really for us to have fun, but even so, there’s some good-natured discussion of our various podcast-from-home arrangements, challenges with supply chains, and campus network improvements.

So, a video wall for little Justin, a gold-plated microphone for little Rachel, a sound-proof booth for little Jamie, a set of packing crates for little Chris, network transceivers for little Marc, and new LED panels for little Larry.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

On Topic Episode 14: We Got a Zoomy Zoom Going

This month we dive deep into the world of AVoIP. It’s a thing. The cost-delta versus point-to-point transmission is almost nil, the technologies and products are maturing, and it opens an entire new world of finger pointing and shirking responsibility!

We first discussed AVoIP last October on Off the Rails Episode 4, so please give that a listen for more on how we’re leveraging it at our institutions. Justin is still living in the wild, wild west of networking, Jamie is firing NDI down dark fiber, Marc is transporting all his production cameras over the campus LAN, Larry is building an AVoIP eSports arena, and Chris is swapping HDBaseT for IP in new general classroom designs because why not?

While we all have different approaches, one item we all agree on is to work closely with your networking team. Some of us got lucky and just happened to be part of the Network/Telecom/Infrastructure teams and others had to go make friends to ensure their VLANs and ports were configured correctly. If you’re not a first-name basis with your networking colleagues, you will be soon, so be proactive and get to know them before you start firing traffic across the network.

We also do a quick Lightning Round about our preferred managed network switches and we’re again all over the map. Cisco, Extreme, Luxul, Netgear, there’s room for everyone!

And even after all that, there’s more to come, so stay tuned for the inevitable AVoIP part 3!

AV SuperFriends On Topic
Episode 13: Moron Refresh Rate

Recorded September 17, 2021

Fire up your RGB LEDs, put on your headset, and get caffeinated! For this month’s episode of On Topic, the AV SuperFriends are joined by Josh Kell, CEO of Horizon AVL System Integration, to talk about eSports. Josh has been working with Larry on a new eSports arena at UNCG and he provides a fascinating look at developing an eSports program holistically and not just piling a bunch of computers into a room and calling it good.

Despite this being an AV-focused show, the technology itself isn’t the most important aspect of eSports and we talk about laying the groundwork for a successful, long-term, and competitive eSports program, tying into existing academic programs on your campus, dogged persistence to get buy-in from university leadership, and ensuring everyone understands that eSports is not just video games.

We also give a preview of the two workshops the AV SuperFriends are leading at InfoComm 2021. Join us on Tuesday, October 26 for the Higher Ed AV Project Life Cycle Crash Course, and the Higher Ed AV Design Challenge: Developing Flexible Institutional AV Standards.

Links for Josh:
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-kell-50a24735/
• Tweeters: https://twitter.com/AVLKell
• Company: https://horizonavl.com

AV SuperFriends: On Topic - Episode 12: Other Duties as Assigned

Recorded August 27, 2021

This month’s topic is “Time for Change,” which we interpreted as “how do we think of classroom AV systems in 2021 as opposed to the same systems in 2019?” The technology hasn’t really changed, but the tasks in those classrooms most certainly have changed, which means we now select the technology differently.

But before we get into all that, we cover some recent news from QSC—or at least leaked from QSC via Rave—about how they’re responding to on-going supply chain shortages. Rather than continuously delay orders, QSC is apparently telling their industry partners (but not necessarily their end-user customers) that some product lines simply will not be available for the foreseeable future. It’s an interesting tact to be sure, and Jamie and Rachel are especially appreciative of it. Rachel also highly recommends an article by a colleague on communicating with customers during a crisis (linked below).

Then we discuss what a classroom system should look like in 2021 or 2022. Sure, the general technologies are the same as we’ve been recommending for years, but now what was once considered an optional add-on is a critical component that is absolutely required for day-to-day teaching and learning. Additionally, “classrooms” clearly extend beyond the four walls of the physical room, so other technology items that were previously considered to be core components can be removed as they no longer easily tie into the new model of mixed hybrid and hyflex learning.

Articles discussed:
https://www.ravepubs.com/qsc-stop-fulfilling-orders/
https://castercomm.com/2021/08/27/three-pillars-that-should-define-your-crisis-comms/

Recorded July 7, 2021

It’s Back to School season, so get some new shoes, a nice shirt for the first day, a new Trapper Keeper and pencil bag, and let’s all take an awkward picture by the front door on the way out to catch the school bus. And, we have some survey results to discuss— and we love our surveys! — from Classroom Technology on the ways Online Learning (whatever that means) is changing post-pandemic. The students are driving change, so it’ll be interesting to return to this topic after a year and see how we did.

Next up, Marc knows what our top Help Desk ticket issues will be this fall and lets us all in on the secret. Are you prepared? It really focuses on the dichotomy of experience between teaching and learning at home and from a classroom. And it will inform AV design for years to come. Also, get rid of your codecs in classrooms.

Finally, do you have rooms you haven’t been in for over a year? Well, chase those spiders away, those rooms need to be 100% for the start of Fall classes! Jamie walks us through how UMKC does their room checks and the advantages of allocating resources to support that model.

Article discussed during the show:

https://campustechnology.com/articles/2021/06/22/how-the-pandemic-changed-higher-eds-priorities-for-online-learning.aspx

Recorded June 11, 2021

It’s summer! Spend the next three hours as the AV SuperFriends review all their summer projects, one by one. No, that’s boring and tedious. We’re all doing the same thing you’re doing at your school.

Instead, let’s talk about supply chain. We’re joined by Clay Stahlka, Senior PreSales Engineer at Starin to talk about the current situation regarding the AV and electronics supply chain. Clay shares his insider perspective and gives some great tips on planning projects early in order to get your gear on time.

Marc also shares an article about holograms (which don’t really exist). They’re the future! No, no they’re not, but not because we don’t all want a Star Trek Holodeck— Rachel reminds us that there’s simply no content for holograms (which still don’t exist).

Connect with Clay Stahlka on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/clay-stahlka-cts-d-06205941/
Articles from the episode:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/tech-companies-want-to-make-holograms-part-of-routine-office-life-11623232800
https://blog.google/technology/research/project-starline/

Recorded May 14, 2021

The AV SuperFriends welcome Mandy Beckner, President and Chief Operating Officer at THE rAVe Agency to the show and peer into our Magic 8 Ball to determine what trade shows, conferences, and events are going to look like in the future. The 8 Ball says “Reply hazy, try again,” which isn’t terribly helpful.

Some events are already returning with various approaches to COVID-19 safety while others are seemingly going to wait out 2021 and hope for better luck in 2022. Regardless of the status of your favorite conference or tradeshow, online events— or some variation thereof— seem to be here to stay. In a world where information is king, how do you sell the shared conference experience over the actual information? Are manufacturers, sponsors, presenters, and attendees alike willing to admit that it’s not just about the information, but the larger experience?

News stories discussed:
ISE throws in the towel in Amsterdam and Munich
What Is the Future of the Edtech Conference?

Originally recorded April 16, 2021

Is AV part of IT? It’s a topic that keeps coming up in the larger higher ed AV circle and it’s the focus of our discussion this month. Did you know there are still schools out there who don’t consider their AV department to be under the auspices of IT? Some are located in the library, some are under the Provost, some are under facilities, some are part of the TV/video production team, and some are part of events. And, in our collective not-so-humble opinion, those schools need a new org chart. After all, AV and IT use many of the same technologies, the same standards, and certainly the same infrastructure, so why shouldn’t we all be one big happy family?

We also play a game of “You might not be using AVOIP if…”

On a recent episode, we peered 20 years into the future to imagine what universities and learning spaces might look like. The most fun aspect of that discussion was trying to the envision technologies that would be in use at the time. It was a balance between outlandish and very real technology of 2021, even if it currently exists only as a tech demo.

On this episode, the AV SuperFriends are all on the same page about what the next groundbreaking AV technology might be— and it’s not exciting to the end-users, but it is to the nerds in all of us. Hint: we’re looking for the “Dante of video.”

Well, it’s Groundhog Day… again.

This month’s theme is supposed to be “the one year anniversary of COVID-19” but as that’s something we’ve all been living 24/7, it fell flat as a topic of discussion for the AV SuperFriends. Instead, we decided to look at long term impacts that COVID might have on higher ed AV and eLearning. We managed to push a monitor cart up to 88 mph and captured a recording of the AV SuperFriends: On Topic from March of 2041. Take that, space-time continuum!

Presenting six perspectives on what universities, higher ed AV, and elearning looks like 20 years from now, here are six tales featuring drone cameras, swarms of microphones, multi-content display walls, corporate sponsorships, and apprenticeships aplenty!

It’s February, and as legally required by Hallmark and your Great Aunt Silvia, this show will be Valentine’s Day themed. We each have a box on our desk and we’re going to go around and virtually drop off little cards covered with stickers, glue, and glitter… and foil-wrapped candy. We share our backgrounds and how we got into AV and why we do what we do. For a bit of prognostication, we also cover what we’d love to see from AV in the future.

It’s January, so let’s plan for summer!

Chris is really, really upset with “Classrooms of the Future” (but not necessarily for the reasons you think) and gives them both barrels. Do you have a Classroom of the Future? Isn't it just the bee’s knees?

Then, the AV SuperFriends recover and share their take on how to get ready for summer projects and Justin again explains the wacky budgeting process at WKU.

Also, Rachel has been getting lots of questions from AV manufacturers about forecasted spending from colleges and universities— budget decreases for some, increases for others, and mysteries for everyone. Hint: Put all your funding requests into hybrid teaching technologies.

Plug in the twinkle lights, shine up your aluminum pole, and get out the fancy liquor— it’s time for the holidays with the AV SuperFriends!

In keeping with the theme of general end-of-year merriment and holiday wishlists, we all share our letters to Santa asking for our favorite AV-related products… or items that don’t quite exist, but should. And Chris shares about seven of them, because he just can’t help it.

Next, we play a round of “if you can have only one item from your Holiday Wishlist, what would it be” as we each describe the one item we really, really want. A video wall for little Justin, a cup of bandwidth for little Jamie, and so forth. Finally, we close with the traditional Feats of Strength as it just wouldn’t be the Holidays without physical altercations.

On this episode of AV SuperFriends: On Topic, we’re taking a look back at an interesting last few months. Did we choose the right model microphones and projec... ok, no one really cares about that. We take a holistic look at AV, eLearning, pedagogy, and the college experience and talk through how making six years of changes in six months might affect the future learning spaces. Also, Justin comes up with the idea to charge tuition to online students based on how far they are from campus.

Welcome to the premier episode of the AV SuperFriends podcast. Take a listen, subscribe, and enjoy the ride.