Episodes

Explore the revolutionary ETC SiteLink, a cloud-based monitoring solution offering real-time access to lighting and rigging systems worldwide. Hosts Chris and Lacy dive into its features, customization options, and impact on the entertainment industry.

Greg is the Founder and Chairman of Clearwing Productions, Inc., a leading live event production company he established in 1985. With over 40 years in the industry, Greg has built Clearwing into a trusted provider of full-service production support—including audio, lighting, staging, video, and backline services—for events of all sizes. From intimate presentations and corporate general sessions to large-scale concerts, multi-stage festivals, and presidential appearances, Greg’s experience spans...

Lighting legend Benoit Richard returns for a long-overdue follow-up to his original appearance on Geezers of Gear, recorded just before the pandemic changed the world. In this episode, Benoit dives into how his career evolved since 2020, shifting further into motion picture and television work while continuing to apply his concert touring experience behind the scenes. From massive Marvel blockbusters like Avengers and Iron Man, to high-profile commercial shoots and reshoots, Benoit reflects on ...

This episode highlights how Elation's cutting-edge technologies, including the KL CORE IP and KL PROFILE FC, are revolutionizing outdoor events, historic theaters like Stefan Żeromski Theater and Dakota Theater, and multi-functional venues like Nova Broadcasting Group. Chris and Lacy share personal experiences, showing how LED advancements enhance artistic flexibility and efficiency for modern productions while lowering energy costs and simplifying logistics.

Founder & CFO, Delicate Productions Chris “Smoother” Smyth is the founder and CFO of Delicate Productions, with over 45 years in live event production. His career began in the early ’70s with a spontaneous leap onto a U.S. tour, eventually working with artists like Genesis, Leo Sayer, Patti Smith, and Kiss. A pivotal tour with Supertramp led to the founding of Delicate in 1980, whose first show was The Clash at the Santa Monica Civic. Smoother has since supported acts like Dire Straits, INXS, ...

Learn about the transformative power of Elation PULSE technology, from dazzling New Year’s Eve displays at the Seattle Space Needle to the revitalization of Truth Nightclub in Johannesburg. Discover how cutting-edge fixtures like the PULSE Bar and PULSE Panel conquer logistical challenges and enhance audience experiences worldwide. Chris and Lacy share practical insights on the many uses of these versatile fixtures across live events and installs alike!

Join us and discover Main Light's 42-year legacy in live event production, plus their recently expanded inventory featuring CHAINMASTER D8 hoists, and the rigorous equipment testing in their state-of-the-art facilities in all locations. Our hosts share personal experiences, emphasizing the role of reliability, innovative solutions, and exceptional service from Mainlight.

Sooner Rae Routhier is an award-winning show designer and creative producer behind some of the most iconic live performances of the past two decades. Her work with artists like Coldplay, Green Day, The Weeknd, Paramore, Muse, and Rihanna has been seen on global tours and major broadcasts including The AMA’s, The Voice, and The Tonight Show. A two-time Parnelli winner and co-founder of SRae Productions and The Playground, Sooner is known for blending powerful storytelling with cutting-edge produ...

Discover how Dakota Theater in The Hague transformed its events with Elation's groundbreaking LED systems, supported by Rolight. This episode highlights the KL and FUZE series, detailing their precision, energy efficiency, and creative versatility, which benefit theaters, live shows, and cinematic setups alike. Learn how these innovations redefine professional lighting standards.

In this episode of Leading Ladies, host Sarah Birnie speaks with Kim Martin, an accomplished account manager at Felix Lighting, about her journey in the lighting industry. They discuss the importance of education, networking, and self-awareness in building a successful career. Kim shares her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field, the challenges of work-life balance, and the evolution of the industry over the years. The conversation emphasizes the need for mental health awareness and...

With over 50 years in the industry, Steve Terry has been a driving force in entertainment lighting technology and standards. As Director of Standards and Industry Relations at ETC, he has shaped global protocols like DMX512, RDM, and ACN and contributed to the National Electrical Code (NEC) Panel since 1994. Previously, he led Production Arts Lighting, engineering major projects for Broadway, NBC Studios, Disney, and top Las Vegas resorts. A USITT Fellow and ETCP Certified Electrician, Steve co...

With over 25 years in the music industry, Mindi is a highly respected tour manager known for her expertise in handling every facet of touring, from pre-production and logistics to budgeting and day-to-day operations. She has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including The Chicks, Avril Lavigne, Norah Jones, Tori Amos, Fleetwood Mac, and Bette Midler, successfully managing global tours across stadiums, arenas, theaters, festivals, and promotional events. Her deep passion for the ind...

In this episode of Geezers of Gear, the hosts celebrate the 50th anniversary of ETC, a leader in entertainment lighting. They discuss the legacy of ETC, including the iconic Source Four, and explore the innovative new lineup of Hog consoles designed for various production needs. The conversation highlights the importance of reliable technology in creative fields and anticipates the future of lighting technology.

Joe is a seasoned international business executive with over 25 years of experience in global expansion, operations, and business transformation. Having lived in Japan and Hong Kong for seven years, he has successfully launched and grown businesses in over 50 countries.Currently President of Artistry In Motion, Joe led the company to record sales and profitability in 2023. Previously, he held leadership roles at Herbalife, Rodan + Fields, Arbonne, and Delphi Display Systems, driving internationa...

Heidi is a seasoned production stage manager with a career spanning theater, live TV, film, and large-scale concert productions. From The Lion King and Celine Dion’s Vegas residency to The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, she thrives in high-pressure live events. Passionate about mentorship and mental health in the industry, Heidi values adaptability, strong relationships, and kindness. She’s also a dedicated advocate for Make-A-Wish Foundation and Stand Up to Cancer. Currently...

Bob McCarthy is a leading expert in sound system design and optimization, with over 40 years in the industry. He pioneered Source Independent Measurement (SIM®) in 1984 and has worked on major productions, including Metallica, Cirque du Soleil, and Broadway hits like Wicked and Les Misérables. His book, Sound Systems: Design and Optimization, is a go-to resource for audio professionals worldwide. A sought-after educator and consultant, Bob continues to shape the future of live sound through his...

Steve Watts is the founder and Managing Director of Abstract AVR, a pioneer in LED lighting innovation for architectural, entertainment, and commercial sectors. With over 35 years in the industry, he has designed groundbreaking products like the Twister, one of the most reproduced disco lights, and the VR8 intelligent scanner.From his early days as a DJ and lighting designer in Europe to revolutionizing LED solutions for major brands like Topshop and Asda, Steve has always been ahead of the cur...

Hailey Featherstone is an award-winning lighting designer and director with a passion for crafting immersive experiences. With a BA in Theatre Design and Production from ASU, she has worked across all facets of the industry—from technician to creative lead—on global tours, special events, and interactive installations.Her credits include:Hans Zimmer Live (Lighting Director) Taylor Swift’s Reputation Tour (FOH Tech) Eddie Izzard’s Wunderbar Tour (Lighting Director) Virgin Galactic Launches (Ligh...

Ethan Weber is a renowned lighting designer and director, best known for his decades-long work with The Rolling Stones and an extensive career spanning U2, John Mayer, Green Day, P!nk, and more. Starting at See Factor in 1984, he joined the Stones in 1994’s Voodoo Lounge Tour, evolving into a key creative force behind their legendary shows. With a work-hard, ego-free approach, Ethan blends technical expertise with artistic vision, shaping some of the world’s biggest tours. Passionate about givi...

Kara Kemp is a passionate leader dedicated to supporting live event professionals. As General Manager of ECCHO Live, she champions mental health, career growth, and industry-wide education. With a background in business, performing arts, and over a decade as a Dega Catering crew chief, she’s worked alongside music legends like Bob Dylan and Keith Urban.Kara’s "Don't shrink. Bloom." philosophy drives her mission to empower others through connection and education. She’s spearheading the ECCHO Live...

Todd Spencer has a career that spans more than 25 years with firms varying in size from 1 million to $3 billion in revenue. Over 18 years, in executive leadership roles working with both startups and established companies to guide strategic and operational growth, acquisitions, turnarounds and business sales. Establish track record of success in strategic plan development, operational optimization, new program design and deployment, business acquisition and sale, and the executive leadership of...

With over a decade in the entertainment industry, Amber has built an impressive career as a production coordinator and VIP coordinator, working alongside legendary artists like Alice Cooper and The Hollywood Vampires (Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Johnny Depp). From coordinating world tours to ensuring seamless VIP experiences, Amber thrives in high-pressure environments, bringing creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of production logistics, her experience spans film, music, and live ev...

John Huntington is an entertainment technology expert, educator, author, and photographer with over three decades of experience in show control, sound, and networking systems. Holding an MFA from Yale School of Drama and a BFA from Ithaca College, he has worked as a tenured professor at NYC College of Technology/CUNY, systems engineer for major productions, and consultant on projects like Blue Man Group and NikeTown. A prolific author, his books, including Show Networks and Control Systems, ar...

Jeff Ravitz is a Primetime Emmy winning lighting designer specializing in live entertainment for multi-camera television, concert tours, and special events. His work includes award shows, comedy specials, concert films, and televised operas, with notable projects like the Olympics medal ceremonies and world tours for Bruce Springsteen, Cher, and Ringo Starr.Co-author of Lighting for Televised Live Events, Jeff is also the broadcast lighting consultant for the Coachella festival since 2016 and h...