# Sam Kennedy — career and conversation guide

## About the guest

Sam Kennedy is a video collaboration industry veteran with experience at Polycom. At the time of this conversation, he described leading go-to-market work at an AI startup focused on managing AV, unified communications and digital signage. His interview with Simon looks back at decades of industry change and the value of maintaining respect between competitors.

## The conversation

Sam Kennedy looks back on three decades in video collaboration, from early systems to Polycom and Crestron. He and Simon discuss the voice of the customer, the ambitious Centro product and the lessons that follow when an innovation struggles. Their conversation explores integrated solutions, company culture, startups and the human connection behind communication technology.

## Themes to explore

- Introduction to Sam Kennedy and His Journey
- From Humble Beginnings to the AV Industry
- The Role of Sociology in Technology
- The Human Connection in Video Conferencing
- The Evolution of Video Conferencing Technology
- The Transition from ViewTech to Polycom
- The Voice of the Customer at Polycom
- Innovations and Challenges at Polycom
- Centro: A Case Study in Innovation and Failure
- The Evolution of Communication Technology
- Innovations in Video Conferencing
- The Shift to Integrated Solutions
- Cultural Differences in Organizations
- Transitioning from Polycom to Crestron
- Building a Startup in the AV Industry
- Advice for Future Generations

[Return to the conversation](https://b4obvious.com/interviews/08-sam-kennedy/)

*Edited companion notes based on the interview. Roles reflect the recording, rather than a current employment claim.*