319: Bold Predictions, Big Layoffs, and the Future of AV

In this wide-ranging and candid episode of The AV Life Podcast, the panel dives headfirst into 2026 predictions for the AV industry, blending humor, hard truths, and lived experience. The conversation opens with reflections on lifelong learning and leadership, sparked by Tim Van Woeart’s return to graduate school and a broader discussion on how experience reshapes perspective in management and higher education.

From there, the group tackles industry turbulence—including mergers, acquisitions, layoffs, and vendor consolidation—while examining how trade shows like ISE and InfoComm are evolving under budget pressure and shifting priorities. Panelists debate the real impact of AI in AV, pushing back on hype and emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human judgment, collaboration, and empathy.

The episode also explores post-COVID realities, including rushed deployments, looming refresh cycles, and the need to “do it right” the second time around. Along the way, listeners are treated to classic AV Life banter, project-management wisdom, and a reminder that in uncertain times, community, kindness, and authenticity matter more than ever.

Topics Discussed:

• 2026 predictions for the AV industry
• Leadership development and adult learning
• AI hype vs. real-world AV applications
• Layoffs, mergers, and market consolidation
• Trade show strategy: ISE, InfoComm, CES
• Higher education AV post-COVID refresh cycles
• Generational differences in the workplace
• Project management fundamentals
• Vendor ecosystems and community building
• The human element in technology decisions

The AV Life is a Higher Ed AV Media production. More at higheredav.com.

Connect with Tim Van Woeart:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-van-woeart-cts-45416826/
X (Formerly Twitter): https://www.x.com/TVanWoeart

Connect with The AV Life:
X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheAVLifePod
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theavlife3337