CTRL-ALT-LEAD with David Hinson

In this episode of Ctrl-Alt-LEAD, David digs into how financial strain is putting higher ed IT teams under pressure just as cybersecurity threats ramp up and infrastructure needs grow. He breaks down why so many tech leaders feel aligned with institutional goals—but not actually supported—and what can be done to shift IT from a cost center to a strategic driver of resilience and growth. If you're trying to do more with less, protect your campus from rising risks, or just want your leadership to finally see IT as essential, you won’t want to miss this episode.

In this episode of Ctrl-Alt-LEAD, David describes why reliable and ubiquitous campus connectivity isn’t simply an amenity, it’s a non-negotiable necessity. This week’s episode uses an AI voice clone, trained upon hours of my natural speaking voice. While the voice you hear today is cloned, the words, thoughts, and ideas here are 100% my own.

In this episode of Ctrl-Alt-LEAD, David explores how foundational infrastructure, especially within residence halls, sets the stage for smart campus innovation. He also dives into the evolving role of ResNet, the importance of blended networks, security by design, cost-effective modernization strategies, and real-world success stories from Boldyn’s university partnerships.This week’s episode uses an AI voice clone, trained upon hours of my natural speaking voice. While the voice you hear today is cloned, the words, thoughts, and ideas here are 100% my own.

In this episode of Ctrl-Alt-LEAD, David explores his experiment with AI voice cloning—why he tried it, how it works, and what it means for creators and leaders. He shares the practical benefits of using AI to lighten the heavy lift of podcast production, while also digging into the ethical guardrails of consent, ownership, and transparency. At the heart of it: trust remains the true currency of leadership, and technology must serve it—not erode it.  The episode also features narration generated by an AI model trained on my own voice. Every word, idea, and story is written by me — the AI simply helps me deliver it with consistent quality, even when I’m on the road. I’m sharing this so you know exactly how the show is made, and so we can keep building it together on a foundation of trust and authenticity.

In this episode of Ctrl-Alt-Lead, David shares a personal story about an anonymous series of origami gifts that revealed the profound impact of recognition and connection in professional settings. He reflects on how small, authentic gestures can strengthen trust, enhance engagement, and build cohesive, motivated teams. The episode highlights why effective leadership begins with genuinely seeing and valuing the people behind the work.This episode of Ctrl-Alt-Lead features narration generated by an AI model trained on my own voice. Every word, idea, and story is written by me — the AI simply helps me deliver it with consistent quality, even when I’m on the road. I’m sharing this so you know exactly how the show is made, and so we can keep building it together on a foundation of trust and authenticity.

In this episode of ctrl-alt-LEAD, David Hinson explores the critical role of individual agency in fostering resilient, high-functioning teams. He challenges leaders to create professional environments where initiative is rewarded—not suppressed—and where team members are empowered to act, contribute, and grow.Drawing from personal experience and practical observations, David unpacks how psychological safety, accountability, and the ability to say “no” are essential for both professional development and organizational success. He warns against the trap of passivity, the risks of delayed decision-making, and the dangers of stifling others’ growth by over-control.The episode calls on leaders to shift from mere delegation to mentorship—encouraging a culture where agency is expected, supported, and celebrated.

Higher Ed IT is indeed a Big Tent, providing governance, oversight, and services heretofore the responsibility of other campus stakeholders. In this episode of ctrl-alt-LEAD, David Hinson, Campus CIO for Boldyn Networks for Higher Education, explores the expanding scope of campus IT. From compliance and AI governance to vendor management, instructional tech, and cloud infrastructure strategy, David highlights how today’s IT teams must evolve into resilient, strategic partners—ready to flex when their institutions need them to the most.

Is your campus IT mindset still stuck in 2019? In this episode of ctrl-alt-LEAD, Boldyn Networks’ Higher Ed Campus CIO David Hinson challenges the status quo and calls on IT leaders to stop chasing tickets and start driving transformation. With insights from innovation thought leaders, discover how embracing resilience, partnerships, micro-innovation, and flexible leadership can reshape IT from break-fix to mission-critical. If you’re ready to punch above your weight and lead with purpose — it’s time to rethink campus IT.