In this episode of Behind the Home Build Podcast, we’re joined by Dusty Gorski, an industry veteran with nearly 40 years of experience in audio, video, and smart home technology. Dusty offers an insider’s perspective on ListenUp, a company that has been redefining the home entertainment and automation experience since its founding in 1972.
Born out of a shared love for superior sound, ListenUp was founded by Walt Stinson and Steve Weiner after a cross-country journey that brought them to Denver. From its earliest days providing sound for live radio broadcasts at iconic venues like Ebbets Field and designing systems for legendary artists at Rainbow Music Hall, ListenUp has made its mark in the Rocky Mountain region and beyond.
Over the years, ListenUp expanded its reach and offerings:
1980: Opened its second store in Boulder.
1996: Installed a state-of-the-art sound system at Folsom Field for CU Buffs fans.
2009: Walt Stinson was inducted into the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame, alongside luminaries like Steve Jobs.
2011: Acquired Hudson’s Home Entertainment in Albuquerque, bringing their expertise to New Mexico.
2019: Walt and Steve passed the torch to the next generation of leaders, with Ben Larkin as president and Evan Stinson as VP and general manager, ensuring the company’s legacy continues.
With a history of innovations—from introducing the Compact Disc to the U.S. market to pioneering Total Home Automation—ListenUp has transformed how people experience technology in their homes.
Dusty also dives into the company’s commitment to excellence, with the most CEDIA-certified technicians in the nation and a mission to transform technology into art. Whether you’re an audiophile, tech enthusiast, or homeowner, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight into the future of smart living.
💡 Have questions about home tech or want to hear from specific experts? Let us know! We’d love to explore topics that interest you or connect you with industry leaders.
🎙️ Tune in and discover the story behind one of the most influential companies in home entertainment and technology!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!