AV industry events are known for their high energy and busy schedules that can push professionals to their limits. Long hours, constant networking, late nights and having fun are all part of the experience. While no one will argue that all of this is exhausting, opportunities to alleviate some discomfort can be achieved by making healthier choices. That’s why we shared the concept of HealthyAV: a mindful, wellness-centered approach to experiencing the AV events we love and showing up for each other.
HealthyAV as a Concept
Photo courtesy: Steve Greenblatt & Brittany DiCesare
HealthyAV is rooted in the belief that success at an industry event doesn’t have to come at the expense of your physical or mental well-being. Initially, we aimed to share a personal story and experience that we found beneficial. While we hoped to highlight that it is OK not to drink alcohol for any reason — whether it’s a personal decision, lifestyle choice, health reason or part of a recovery journey — we wanted to ensure that no one feels uncomfortable, isolated, pressured or excluded because of their preferences. AV is a people-first industry, and everyone deserves to feel welcome, embraced and empowered to be their authentic selves.
Being our best selves at trade shows and events has been a significant motivator for our HealthyAV charge. Considering the time, money, preparation and personal sacrifice that go into participating in an industry event, it makes sense for us to commit to showing up in the best way possible from start to finish, both for our organization and ourselves.
More than a Hashtag
For us, #HealthyAV is more than a hashtag. It’s a personal pledge to make good decisions and be at our best, whether that means eating a nutritious breakfast to start the day, going to the gym, staying hydrated, taking breaks when necessary, being present in conversations and activities instead of rushing from one to the next, avoiding overindulgence, and going to bed at a reasonable hour so we’re ready to tackle the next day with purpose and clarity.
We were deeply moved by the response to HealthyAV at InfoComm 2024 last year. The simple act of wearing a bracelet sparked powerful conversations, forged new friendships and created moments of solidarity. Attendees sought us out to thank us for sharing our story and for allowing them to feel comfortable sharing their own stories about their preferences and healthy choices, enabling them to discover the support and encouragement they needed from one another.
Equally important, the movement has helped reframe the definition of trade show success. Whether the goal is to make meaningful business connections, absorb new technologies and education or foster personal growth, #HealthyAV participants are choosing to operate with intention and mindfulness. They recognize that physical energy, mental clarity and emotional stability are key to putting their best foot forward.
Join us at InfoComm 2025
We’ve heard from people across the industry who say the movement gave them the confidence to feel comfortable not drinking, saying no to late nights, saying yes to self-care and approaching the show with renewed clarity and confidence. It’s no longer about just surviving the event; it’s about thriving through it.
Photo courtesy: Steve Greenblatt & Brittany DiCesare
As we look ahead to InfoComm 2025, we’re proud to continue and grow the HealthyAV movement. We will again be handing out bracelets and offering support to professionals who want to make decisions that work for them, showing up fully, staying focused and making the most of every conversation, meeting and learning opportunity. We are also committed to amplifying the voices of those who share this mindset and building a stronger, more supportive network within the AV community.
If you’ve ever wanted to transform your experience at trade shows and industry events and feel energized, supported, and fully present, HealthyAV may be for you. Reach out to us on LinkedIn, email or social media to get involved, receive a bracelet, or help spread the word by including #HealthyAV. We welcome everyone who values showing up at their best and helping others do the same.
Steve Greenblatt is president of Control Concepts Inc. Brittany DiCesare is director of sales and operations at Control Concepts Inc.
