brAVe [space]

Recorded on July 8th, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Brittney Grant for an honest and reflective conversation about change, community, and resilience. Brittney opens up about a year full of transition—from family moves to shifting friendships—and how these changes have affected her sense of direction. She shares how her "True North" has been anchored by her theat...

Recorded on May 27th, 2025 In this vibrant episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Robyn Bryce for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring, nerdy, and deeply human. Throughout the episode, they discuss: Robyn's journey from K-12 educator to higher ed tech leader, and how embracing curiosity helped her confidently shift into tech. How AI and XR are transforming education—and why re...

Recorded on May 13th, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Matt Pana for a conversation that’s part AV journey, part mental health reflection, and fully human. Matt shares how he transitioned into the AV industry from a background in music, marketing, and podcasting—and how he’s embraced his role by staying true to his punk rock, DIY roots. Throughout the episode, they...

Recorded on April 29th, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser welcomes Xzavia Killikelly for a powerful and candid conversation about professional development, mentorship, and the importance of building a social brand—both online and offline. Xzavia shares how he fell into the AV industry, what it took to catch up, and how the right mentors (and mindset) transformed his career....

Recorded on April 22nd, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Carl James to explore how the pandemic reshaped his understanding of educational engagement. Drawing from personal experience and professional innovation, Carl shares how hybrid classroom design can empower both faculty and students—and why rethinking our learning spaces is essential for the future. Thr...

Recorded on April 8th, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser chats with Laura Jansen, Director of Workforce Development at NSCA. Laura shares her personal journey with emotional intelligence, burnout recovery, and the ongoing challenge of embracing change. From her passion for mental health advocacy to her creative hobby making crocheted koozie mittens, Laura brings a refreshing...

Recorded on April 1st, 2025 Tune in as host Britt Yenser sits down with the insightful and inspiring Siobhan Stewart. Together, they explore showing up boldly and joyfully in professional spaces (and in life)! Throughout the episode, they discuss: The advice Siobhan would give to her younger self Go-to encouragement she shares with women entering or growing in the industry Real-world tips for wome...

Recorded on March 18th, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Amelia Vrabel for a conversation about carving out space in the AV industry. Amelia shares the advice she’d give her younger self, reflecting on lessons learned and challenges overcome. She and Britt discuss how AV has room for everyone and why embracing a multigenerational workforce is key to the indus...

Recorded on March 11, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Lisle Waldron for a heartfelt and eye-opening discussion on understanding neurodivergence and embracing individual flaws. Together, they explore: The emotional toll of autism Navigating others’ perceptions in professional settings The challenges and strengths of neurodivergence The importance of self-acce...

Recorded on February 25th, 2025 In this thought-provoking episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Chris Kelly for a candid conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Together, they tackle: Why DEI sparks strong reactions Actionable steps for allies Equality vs. Equity The role of AV managers in fostering inclusion ...and more! Tune in for an honest and insightful...

Recorded on January 28th, 2024 Time is one of our most valuable resources—but are you using it intentionally? In this episode of brAVe [skills], cohosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather explore what it means to set boundaries with your time and take control of your schedule. From recognizing the choices you’re making to creating space for what truly matters, they share insights on prioritization, sch...

When Coran Smith's episode first aired on October 3rd, 2024, the Higher Ed AV Website was under construction! While this episode aired across podcast platforms, it did not make its way to the website. Coran deserves the full airing and all of the attention, so please enjoy this episode again! Recorded September 17th, 2024 Originally Aired October 3rd, 2024 "From the mundane to the monumental-- eve...

Recorded on January 7, 2025 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Murphy Daley, an experienced AV project manager and author, to discuss her winding journey of building a career in AV. Murphy shares insights on: The challenge of discovering what’s possible in the industry The importance of taking leaps of faith Navigating the workplace when dealing with serious illness...

Recorded on November 19, 2024 In this episode of brAVe [skills], co-hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the power of setting clear communication boundaries. They explore why clarity is an act of kindness, how to be purposeful in your messaging, and the importance of using the right language to express what you truly mean. Britt and Leon share their own experiences with boundary-setting,...

Recorded on December 12, 2024 Join host Britt Yenser on this episode of brAVe [space] as she welcomes audio pro and author April Tucker! April shares how to "troubleshoot your brain" by: Defining, identifying, and overcoming barriers Unpacking personal priorities Building meaningful and purposeful relationships …and more! April offers specific, actionable steps to spark positive change. Be sure to...

Recorded on December 4th, 2024 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser is joined by AV pro and co-host of the WAVIT podcast, Chrissy Sara. Throughout the episode, Britt and Chrissy discuss: How professionals in the field can communicate what they see and need to their leadership The difference between leadership and management What to do if you are a high performer under less-than-idea...

Recorded on December 23rd, 2024 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser dives deep into the personal art of goal-setting—not as a productivity hack, but as a form of self-care, reflection, and intentional living. Britt shares her unique approach to setting a yearly vision through a digital vision board, breaking goals into meaningful monthly milestones, and weaving daily habits into a...

Recorded on November 19th, 2024 In this episode of brAVe [skills], Britt and Leon dive into the heavy topic of burnout—what it is, why it happens, and how to navigate it. They explore three causes of burnout: Weight of the World Syndrome - Taking on everything, often for others, with a fear of failure and a need to prove yourself. Fear of Falling - Striving for perfection and tying success to self...

Recorded on November 26th, 2024 In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser sits down with Lisa Stephens, one of the brilliant minds behind FlexSpace, to explore its purpose and origin story. Through an engaging conversation, Lisa shares insights into the founding of FlexSpace, revealing powerful life lessons along the way, such as: The importance of communication and collaboration Being p...

Recorded on October 29th, 2024 NSFW Warning: Some cursing Trigger Warning: Discussion of suicide awareness  In this episode of brAVe [space] host Britt Yenser is joined by friend of the pod Nic Milani! Nic has been on a quest to foster authentic connections and create a network of support and growth. Throughout the episode, they discuss: The founding of Mazebright Collective and the importance of...

Recorded on November 5th, 2024 In this episode of brAVe [skills], hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the ever-elusive concept of work-life balance. What does it really mean? And is balance even the goal—or should we aim for integration instead? Join us as we ask the big questions: How do we know when the balance is off? Are we so tied to our work identity that it’s throwing us off-balan...

Recorded on October 8th, 2024 Is this a cross-over episode? Technically, no. But host Britt Yenser is joined by co-host of the WAVIT podcast, Lex Evans! Lex brings charm, wisdom, and niche knowledge to the brAVe [space] as she and Britt discuss: Using the WAVIT podcast to build community and allow people to be vulnerable Getting an ADHD diagnosis as an adult Finding systems that work Studies and d...

Recorded on October 19th, 2024 Happy Halloween, listeners!   In June of 2024, Chase Yenser “dressed up as an AV Professional” and attended Infocomm. In this episode, host Britt Yenser asks him to unpack that experience. Throughout the episode, they cover:  What it was like to attend Infocomm as an “outsider” His experience as a [white] man compared to her experience as a [white] woman His experien...

Recorded October 15th, 2024  In this episode of brAVe [skills], hosts Britt Yenser and Leon Prather dive into the topic of "Effective Listening," breaking down how to truly listen rather than just waiting for your turn to talk. They explore the concept of active listening and share actionable tactics. They also tackle key questions, like how to define effective listening and why it matters, and dr...

Recorded on October 1st, 2024   In this episode of brAVe [space], host Britt Yenser is joined by Gen Cleary. Not only is Gen the Founder and CEO of Sound Connective, but she is also a deeply insightful person. Gen has spent time in brave spaces of her own, doing the important self-work that is necessary to form authentic connections. Throughout the episode, Britt and Gen discuss:  How they define...