Welcome to AV in the Wild, the podcast that dives deep into the heart of the pro AV industry—out in the field, on the move, and in the moment.
Hosted by the dynamic duo Iffat Chaudhry and Neil Fluester, we’re bringing you real conversations with real people, tackling the topics that matter most—from tech trends and challenges to the stories shaping our AV community.
Powered by Wildwood Plus, this is not your typical studio sit-down. This is AV—unfiltered, unexpected, and unapologetically Wild.
Behind the world’s most demanding displays with digiLED and GoVision
We’re returning to Las Vegas for this episode of AV in the Wild; recorded on location at the Pixel Depot during Infocomm 2026 and sponsored by digiLED, Neil sits down with Mike Hopkins, Senior Vice President at digiLED, and Chris Curtis, Founder of GoVision, to explore what it takes to deliver some of the world's most ambitious LED display projects.
The conversation traces the long-standing relationship between the two companies whose combined expertise spans almost 50 years in LED technology, live events and large-scale installations. Mike and Chris discuss how collaboration, engineering expertise and early project engagement help bring complex display concepts to life.
The episode also shines a spotlight on several landmark projects, including the record-breaking centre-hung video board at Bristol Motor Speedway and major venue deployments for Live Nation and PPL Center. Along the way, Mike and Chris share insights into custom LED design, the realities of balancing rental and permanent installation requirements, and the importance of reliability, serviceability and long-term lifecycle management in modern display technology.
Special thanks to Chris Curtis and Mike Hopkins for joining us and sharing their expertise on the technologies, partnerships and projects driving the future of large-scale visual experiences.
21 May 2026
M-Cube’s Mike Sponza on music technology and the future of brand experience
In this episode of AV in the Wild, Neil and Iffat sit down with Mike Sponza, Founding Partner and Director of Music & Licensing at M-Cube, to discuss music, technology and brand experience. Mike also reflects on how content delivery has evolved over time, and why, despite advances in connectivity, local storage and reliable infrastructure remain critical to consistent playback.
The conversation dives into the complexities of music licensing, where Mike unpacks how copyright rules vary by country and why ongoing dialogue with collecting societies remains essential, particularly as technology evolves. He also reflects on changes in content delivery over time, from hard‑drive distribution to store‑and‑forward systems, and explains why local storage continues to be critical, even in markets with advanced connectivity.
Mike shares his perspective on the growing role of AI in functional music, discussing both the efficiencies it unlocks through adaptive playlists and the ethical and creative considerations it raises. The episode also touches on how the consumption of audio evolved during the COVID period to meet changing industry needs, the increasing importance of sustainability initiatives, and how music, visuals and digital platforms are coming together to shape more immersive, brand-led environments.
Special thanks to Mike Sponza for joining us and offering a thoughtful look at how music‑led environments can enhance both brand identity and customer experience.
27 Apr 2026
How to boost your confidence presenting in live, hybrid and broadcast environments
In this episode of AV in the Wild, Iffat and Sam speak to presenter, PR consultant and Director of Boost, Hannah Shellswell, for a practical and encouraging conversation about confidence, communication and growth in the AV industry. Hannah shares insights from her work hosting live events, presenting on AVIXA TV and engaging with emerging technologies alongside her experiences training professionals to feel more confident on stage and screen. The discussion explores what it really takes to put yourself forward, particularly for those new to the industry or navigating imposter syndrome. This episode is packed with actionable advice, including tips for preparing personal stories, building stronger connections at events, and managing nerves through mindset, body language and simple pre-presentation rituals. Hannah also introduces techniques for overcoming deeper limiting beliefs and reflects on how confidence can be built over time through experience. Thank you to Hannah for joining us for such a supportive and practical episode focused on showing up, learning from mistakes and remembering that audiences are far more encouraging than we often expect.
24 Apr 2026
Storytelling, neurodiversity and the power of inclusive AV spaces
In this episode of AV in the Wild, Iffat and Neil are joined by award-winning writer, director, podcaster and advocate, Sam Grierson, for an open and reflective conversation about neurodiversity, creativity and belonging.
Sam shares their journey to a later-life diagnosis of autism and ADHD, reflecting on identity, self-discovery and the lack of visible role models for autistic women and non-binary people. The discussion explores the value and limitations of labels, the concept of hyperfocus, and how Sam’s experiences have shaped both their perspective and creative work.
The episode also looks at Sam’s writing career, including the plays and audio dramas created during COVID that place neurodiverse characters at the centre, many of which are made freely available to improve accessibility and representation. Broadening the conversation, the group discuss rising diagnoses, post-diagnosis support, intentional use of technology, and how the AV industry can create more inclusive, supportive spaces.
Thank you to Sam for sharing such thoughtful and personal insights highlighting the power of representation, community and safe spaces.
17 Apr 2026
Monique Rezai with AV in the Wild
How is distribution changing in a world of cloud, AI and the connected workplace?
In our latest episode, @Neil and @Iffat sit down with Monique Rezai, CRO of @Midwich US, to discuss growth in North America, acquisitions, managed services and why distributors must evolve to stay relevant
11 Mar 2026
Inside the Connected Classroom: How AV is Transforming Education in 2026
In this episode of AV in the Wild, hosts Neil, Iffat and Sam step inside one of the most talked-about spaces at ISE 2026: the Connected Classroom Powered by Logitech.
Joined by guests Jeff Boggess, Ian Wright and Jay Lyons, the team explores how education is evolving from the technologies shaping how students learn to how teachers deliver content. We look at the shift toward digital learning and immersive tools and the growing importance of AI, accessibility and sustainability - the conversation offers a clear look at the trends influencing modern education.
Filmed live on the show floor, this episode highlights how the Connected Classroom feature brings these innovations together and demonstrates what the future of learning could look like.
A big thank you Jeff Boggess, Jay Lyons from Logitech and Ian Wright from T1V for taking the time to talk with us at ISE!
20 Feb 2026
Fast Forward Friday: Inspiring the Next-Generation of AV Talent
In this episode of AV in the Wild, hosts Iffat and Neil dive into one of the most exciting parts of ISE 2026: Fast Forward Friday - a designated day designed to champion the next generation of AV talent. Joined by an expert line-up of guests, including Matt Nimmons, Lee Kirkwood, Joseph Valerio and Daniel Centelles, the episode explores why investing in emerging professionals has never been more important.
Special thanks to all our guests and the AVIXA TV Studio team for letting us use the studio as a backdrop to this important conversation.
Presenter: Neil Fluester and Iffat Chaudry
Location: ISE 2026, Barcelona
8 Feb 2026
AV in the Wild: ISE Episode
Our hosts are joined by Jeff Hayward, presenter of the Integrated Home Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the world of home integration, what's new in the industry, and most importantly, ISE 2026! Comment down below who you would like to see next!Our hosts are joined by Jeff Hayward, presenter of the Integrated Home Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the world of home integration, what's new in the industry, and most importantly, ISE 2026! Comment down below who you would like to see next!
6 Jan 2026
Pushing Beyond: Inside ISE 2026 with Mike Blackman
In this special ISE preview episode, Neil and Iffat speak to managing director Mike Blackman, aka ‘Mr ISE,’ to explore what’s ahead for ISE 2026, 3-6 February in Barcelona. As well as an exclusive reveal, the discussion also touches on event features and big news – including ‘Spark’, a new 4-day creative industries event – plus, insights into ISE’s mega trends including AI and cybersecurity, and a look at what’s happening away from the show floor. Along with practical advice for exhibitors and attendees, hear how ISE continues to Push Beyond industry expectations.
With special thanks to Mike Blackman for sharing his expertise and behind-the-scenes updates only on AV in the Wild.
Presenters: Neil Fluester, Iffat Chaudhry
17 Nov 2025
AI, Meeting Rooms, and the Human Touch: Insights from UCX 2025
In this episode, Neil and Sam speak to panellists at UCX 2025 to discuss their experiences at the show and their thoughts on the evolving impact of artificial intelligence. The conversation covers meeting room user experience, strategies for addressing customer concerns, the role of AI as a tool for enhancing productivity – and spoiler alert – why AI is no replacement for the human touch.
Special thanks to Erica Whittle from Sennheiser, Chris Neto from Midwich, Jane Hammersley of Blue Touch Paper, and Ed Orchard from QSC for sharing their perspectives live from UCX.
Presenters: Neil Fluester, Sam Ward
Location: UCX 2025, London
10 Nov 2025
Conversations on Broadcast AV Convergence with Neil Fluester
In this episode, Neil serves as the onsite correspondent at IBC 2025. Addressing the prominent theme of Broadcast AV convergence within the ProAV sector, Neil engages exhibitors to discuss their perspectives and highlight recent innovations. This segment includes insights from Colin Farquhar of VITEC, Richard Bailey of Techex, Debbie Zheng of Absen, and Antoine Doublet of Deepsky.
This Episodes Presenter: Neil Fluester
Location: IBC 2025, Amsterdam
3 Nov 2025
Spotlight on AVIXA TV: Sam Minish lifts the lid on Pro AV’s ‘best in class’ broadcast AV showcase
In this episode, we catch up with Sam Minish – VP of Content Creation at AVIXA – at InfoComm 2025 to talk success at the Telly Awards, the philosophy behind AVIXA TV and Xchange Live, and why she is encouraging the AV industry to ‘pass the mic’ and get involved.
This Episodes Presenters: Iffat Chaudry & Neil Fluester
Location: InfoComm 2025, Orlando, USA.
21 Oct 2025
Responsible AI – Taming the Tiger with Noelle Russell
In this episode, Iffat and Neil speak with technologist and AI specialist Noelle Russell about scaling responsible AI. Recorded at InfoComm, Noelle discusses her experience developing Amazon Alexa and offers her perspectives on the ongoing evolution of AI. The lively conversation covers topics including the importance of training AI, practical advice for using generative AI platforms, and considerations regarding AI's potential to support inclusion, wellbeing and assisted living.
This Episodes Presenters: Iffat Chaudry & Neil Fluester
Location: InfoComm 2025, Orlando, USA.
With special thanks to Midwich AV on Air for use of its podcast recording booth.
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