Leading Ladies Podcast Episodes
Hosted and produced by Sarah Birnie (Producer of Geezers of Gear), Leading Ladies shines a dedicated spotlight on the remarkable women driving innovation, creative vision, and operational leadership across the live event and concert touring industries. Drawing from her own background in touring and hospitality, Sarah provides a platform for impactful conversations about the experiences, challenges, and successes of female professionals in live entertainment.
Oct. 26, 2026
Learning and mastering lighting consoles with Madi Adams
Madi Adams shares her journey from early career in live entertainment to becoming a touring lighting designer, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. Madi shares her journey through the music industry, from pandemic challenges to touring with top artists, and her insights on industry diversity and mental health.
Guest: Madi Adams
Oct. 18, 2026
Everything Is Connected to Light with Sophya Acosta
Sophya Acosta shares her journey from Argentina to Barcelona, exploring her passion for light design across theater, architecture, and art. She discusses her experiences working with Cirque du Soleil during the pandemic, managing a studio, and her insights into the materiality of light and creative process. Sophya Acosta shares her inspiring journey through the world of lighting design, from her early inspirations to her recent work on the Paris Olympics. She discusses her innovative approach to sustainable lighting, her studio's evolution, and her advice for aspiring professionals.
Guest: Sophya Acosta
Oct. 12, 2026
No Shackle, No Show: The High-Stakes World of Touring Rigging with Joanna Benauer
Joanna Benauer shares her inspiring journey from a costume shop to becoming a renowned arena rigger, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and community support in the live entertainment industry.
Guest: Joanna Benauer
Oct. 1, 2026
Illuminating the Journey of Anne Militello
LEADING LADIES EPISODE 28 Anne Militello shares her incredible journey through the lighting industry, from underground clubs to Broadway and international projects. Discover her insights on the science of light, her creative process, and advice for aspiring designers. This episode is sponsored by Lightwsitch
Guest: Anne Militello