It’s so easy to enter to win sweet kicks #avtweeps post pic & mention @WindyCityWire Where all the #AVsneakerheads at 🤗 Get to Booth C5731! @chris_neto @AVPhenom @TimothyTroast @tdalbright @thesmoothfactor @tobitungl @BenRayThomas @narinternet @HigherEdAV @DanFerrisiEdit

Nate with another iconic pose after losing to the @DallasStars in the playoffs again #texashockey

Does the term "Pro AV" still appropriately describe our industry? -- When I walk through trade show floors around the globe, it is wildly apparent that our community is stretching its tentacles further than ever. However, there's one thing that has become crystal clear as I hear the conversations inside these halls: the terminology and slang we're familiar with in the traditional AV world feels like a foreign language elsewhere. Let's face it, the world of audio and visual tech has been let out of Pandora's box, and has outgrown the perceived confines of conference rooms and home theaters. It's busting the door down in areas like healthcare, security, transportation, emergency services, critical infrastructure, and more. So is "Pro AV" still relevant? It's at least a starting point, but I think we might be moving beyond that moniker. Thoughts?

Since #cyberattacks are back in the news today, I had a question for you all. What best practices do you recommend for companies or organizations looking to secure their network infrastructure? Both from a data and hardware standpoint. #security #hack #hacking #cybersecurity

Prediction: in the first 6 months after this deal closes, you'll see @Walmart literally giving away @VIZIO TVs or HEAVILY discounting them as a loss leader to acquire data and eyeballs. But it will require a pretty extensive opt-in for the buyers to provide viewership data. #walmart #vizio #avtweeps corporate.walmart.com/news/2…

The Super Bowl was just one big reminder that Taylor Swift doesn't need to spend a dollar on marketing for the rest of her life. Her fans are the best marketing department in the world. #superbowl #taylorswift #marketing #b2bmarketing

I'm a big fan of innovation and trying new things, but I'm just not particularly enthusiastic about the #VisionPro launch for some reason. Feels like we go through the same song and dance with consumer level VR/AR every few years. There isn't enough content yet and the consumer applications are still pretty limited. And historically consumers have made it clear en masse that they don't want to have technology attached to to their face for extended periods of time. -- If they can make a real play into the B2B world then I'm happy to change my tune, but it doesn't seem like it's Apple's demographic with this.

Trying to channel this vibe right now. Cowboys are absolutely trying to steal all of my joy.

One of the things that I've found unilaterally through integrated tech focused industries is that the barrier to entry for industry newcomers if very high. Whether it's terms, trade shows, best practices, channel structure, hard skills, or something else, it can be very difficult to break into our industry. So I'm currently putting together training content and courses focused on things that industry newcomers need to know. Things like vertical specific information, breaking down the importance of trade shows, core communities in the industry, etc. Almost like a 101 level course. What are some of the things that you think that first timers in our industry need to know? #avtweeps #proav #education

There are 2 verticals in 2024 that I can't wait to see our industry serve. 1: Residential Technology 2: Security and Access Control -- This will be a banner year for all of us as we grow to better empower and serve our tech communities! #avtweeps

This year, I'm shaking things up by attending a mix of shows and events outside my usual circuit. And what better place to start than @NAMMShow? Pro Audio is one of our most foundational building blocks that crosses over almost every single vertical that we serve, and NAMM is one of the places where the heart of Pro Audio beats the strongest. What are some of your best tips for a first time attendee? #namm24 #proaudio #avtweeps #prosound

One of the hidden secrets to success is rooting for other people’s success. Winners love bringing their supporters along for the ride w/‘em. Thus, supporting everyone’s success creates an exponential number of people bringing you up w/them, making it nearly impossible to fail.

I've mentioned this to many in our community, but it often catches people off guard when they learn that I grapple with stage fright and on-camera anxiety. I'm well aware that I'm not the only one; after all, the fear of public speaking is a common challenge for so many of us. To offer a bit of assistance to those of you in the same boat, I've compiled a quick rundown of some of the tactics I use to tackle those pre-show jitters. -- 1. Plan and Rehearse: - Rehearse, but Don't Over-script: Nothing beats practice and rehearsal. I aim for a natural delivery, which typically means not sticking rigidly to a script. This helps me be more relaxed and authentic. - Interactive Elements: Incorporating visuals like pictures or videos, and interactive segments keeps the presentation dynamic and gives me necessary breaks. - Anchor Phrases & Transitions: I build in specific phrases that I'll use to "right the ship" and get me back on track into the next point/topic. This built in safety net helps give me peace of mind going into the presentations. 2. Avoid Caffeine and Stimulants: - Steer Clear of Caffeine: Caffeine and energy drinks can amplify anxiety, so I avoid them before presentations or broadcasts to keep my nerves in check. - Hydration and Snacks: I make sure to bring my own water and a light snack to boost my energy levels. Green rooms are usually full of these things, but I never assume that they will always be stocked. Hunger and thirst are not things you want to be worried about when the the spotlight turns on. 3. Centering Techniques: - Prayer: I use prayer to center my thoughts and calm my mind before going on stage. (For those who don’t pray, a short meditation session can also provide a moment of calm and focus.) - Breathing Exercises: Simple, focused breathing exercises are a great way to reduce anxiety and prepare mentally.

I'm by no means a huge @kiss fan, but this is going to be pretty cool: fastcompany.com/90989900/kis…

What's the connection between professional wrestling and B2B marketing? Check out the latest episode of Pro AV Today to find out! Join myself, @chris_neto, @jrsyjmy, and @VollmayerOnFire as we break down the similarities between the two worlds. Don't miss out on this one! Watch here: marketscale.com/industries/p… #ProAV #B2BMarketing #avtweeps

Who is headed to @DSEShow and @LDITradeshow next week in Vegas? #avtweeps #dse2023 #ldi2023

FEEDBACK REQUESTED: One of the great things about #AI is that it democratizes information across all sorts of industries and makes certain tasks more feasible for people. This applies directly to our industry as we look to better serve our communities. So I've built a VERY early version of an AV centric GPT called the AV Assistant. It can help identify things like industry trends, provide suggestions for projects, build marketing plans, and more. I would love for it to become a place that folks across all sorts of AV disciplines can go to ask industry specific questions. Check it out here: chat.openai.com/g/g-6F5kEi0n… I'd love your feedback. #avtweeps #AVinTheAM #proav

Quick observations from day 2 of #iaapaexpo: 1: Outside of a handful of premium players, there doesn’t seem to be tons of brand loyalty when it comes to AV buyers in amusement and attractions. The number one factors seem to be product functionality and longevity. Saw that firsthand this weekend in a queue that had speakers that were at least 15 years old. 2: The Themed Entertainment Association (@TEA_Connect) is a FANTASTIC resource for AV manufacturers. By far one of the standout groups in my opinion. They do a fantastic job of linking tech folks with industry creatives.

Each year as we commemorate Veterans Day, I find myself immersed in a sea of emotions, reflecting on both my personal journey and the broader sacrifices of our brave veterans. My father, a veteran himself, and I have navigated a tumultuous relationship over the years. Despite our challenges, time and maturity have allowed me to separate personal struggles from the profound respect and gratitude I hold for his service, and for all those who have served our nation. This day is not just about honoring the courage and heroism of our veterans but also about recognizing the complex realities they face upon returning home. Many of our heroes struggle with mental health challenges, a battle often fought in silence. It’s a stark reminder of the need for support and understanding for these valiant individuals who have given so much. With that in mind, I want to highlight an organization close to my heart - 22kill (1tribefoundation.org/program…). This incredible group is dedicated to providing much-needed support and resources for veterans grappling with mental health issues. Their work is a beacon of hope, reminding us that we can all play a part in aiding those who have served. As we honor our veterans today, let's also pledge to support them beyond this day. Whether it's through organizations like 22Kill or simple acts of kindness and understanding, every gesture counts. To all veterans, including my father: Thank you for your service, your sacrifices, and your strength. Today, we honor you. 🇺🇸 #VeteransDay #Gratitude #22Kill #MentalHealth