From acknowledging reality without judgment to understanding the circles of control, influence, and concern, Ryan connects these lessons to AV/IT scenarios like AV over IP, organizational change, and team dynamics. He emphasizes that acceptance is not the same as approval or resignation—it’s the foundation for clarity, resilience, and effective action. Along the way, he shares personal experiences from therapy, insights from Stephen Covey, and connections to mindfulness practice. This episode offers both reflection and practical steps for leaders navigating complex transitions.
Topics Discussed
- Why the AV/IT Amplifier occasionally pauses and the value of Gray Matter Moments
- Convocation at Yavapai College and the theme of navigating change
- The concept of radical acceptance from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Acceptance vs. approval: acknowledging truth without resignation
- Examples of resistance in higher ed technology (AV over IP, cloud control)
- Stephen Covey’s circles of control, influence, and concern
- Parallels to the Serenity Prayer and recovery wisdom
- Five skills for practicing radical acceptance in daily life
- The role of mindfulness, breathing, and role-play in emotional regulation
- How radical acceptance expands clarity, influence, and resilience
The AV/IT Amplifier is a Higher Ed AV Media production. More at higheredav.com.
Connect with Ryan
Twitter – @Ryan_A_Gray
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanagray/
Email – ryan@higheredav.com
Voiceover by Chris Dechter.
We’d love your feedback! Share thoughts on this episode and others by reaching out through social media or email.
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