Episodios

  • #323 - Sharon Lee - Respect and Kindness in the Touring Industry - LEADING LADIES PODCAST
    Aug 20 2025

    Sharon Lee is the founder and President of High Road Inc., an entertainment logistics company based in Franklin, Tennessee, providing tour trucking and transportation services across the U.S. and Canada. With over 20 years of experience in freight, logistics, and live events, Sharon is recognized as a trusted leader in the touring industry—renowned for her artist-first, relationship-driven approach.


    Before launching High Road in 2016, Sharon honed her skills in sales, marketing, and logistics leadership roles, including time with Boston Welding & Design, Forward Air, and founding the nonprofit event Rally at the Alley, which supported trade show families in times of personal crisis. Her early passion for people and process laid the groundwork for her success in building a company rooted in integrity, teamwork, and client service.Sharon and the High Road team have supported tours for artists including Måneskin, H.E.R., Andy Grammer, Meshuggah, IU, Collective Soul, Switchfoot, The Decemberists, and many others. She has built a reputation for not only delivering top-tier logistics services, but also creating strong, human-centered cultures both internally and on the road.


    Beyond her day-to-day role, Sharon is an active voice in the live events community. She serves on the board of ECCHO Live, is a member of the CMA, ACM, and Women in Music, and is a frequent speaker and panelist at industry events like LPS, Production Live, and Touring Career Workshop. Her session topics—ranging from sustainable careers in touring to building teams that last—reflect her deep commitment to mental health, equity, and leadership in a fast-paced industry.


    Sharon currently resides in Franklin, TN with her husband and their blended family. When she’s not keeping the wheels turning on tour, she enjoys traveling, cheering on her kids, and investing in the people and partnerships that make this industry feel like home.


    This Episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

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    1 h y 40 m
  • #322 - Chance Stahlhut - Navigating the Future of Live Events
    Aug 13 2025

    Chance Stahlhut is the Chief Operating Officer of Concert Stuff Group, where he leads a growing family of specialized production and logistics companies serving the live entertainment industry. With a 25+ year career that began in punk clubs and international tours, Chance has held senior leadership roles at Clair Global, VER, PRG, and Go West Creative. His background spans touring engineering, sales, operations, and executive strategy—making him uniquely equipped to scale complex organizations while staying grounded in hands-on production realities.


    Chance is known for his people-first leadership style, belief in transparent communication, and advocacy for long-term career growth within the industry. At Concert Stuff Group, he’s focused on strengthening team structures, improving profitability without sacrificing culture, and helping leaders think more strategically.


    In this episode, Marcel and Chance discuss the latest developments in the live entertainment industry, focusing on recent business deals, the impact of AI, and the importance of personal relationships. They explore the evolution of the industry, investment strategies, and the challenges posed by new technologies. The conversation emphasizes the need for ethical practices and trust in business, as well as the complexities of CapEx decisions in a rapidly changing landscape.


    This Epsode is sponsored by Artistry In Motion and ETC

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    1 h y 41 m
  • #321 - Corey Easterbrook - The Power of Interconnected Business Relationships
    Aug 6 2025

    Corey Easterbrook is the co-owner of HotHouse Music & Production, a Fort Myers–based company specializing in live audio, video, and lighting. With over 25 years in the industry, Corey brings a concert-level approach to corporate events, conferences, and private productions across North America. Known for his creative lighting designs and high production standards, Corey helps clients deliver unforgettable event experiences.


    In this conversation, Corey discusses the significance of creating a collaborative ecosystem in business, emphasizing how interconnected relationships can enhance growth and support among competitors. He highlights the importance of being aware of competitive dynamics and how they influence purchasing decisions and business strategies.


    This episode is brought to you by Elation and Main Light

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    1 h y 46 m
  • FutureTech Featuring Elation - Vintage Vibes, Modern Tech: SŌl I Blinders & Nathaniel Rateliff Tour
    Aug 1 2025

    Chris and Lacy dive into the soulful stage design of Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats’ South of Here Tour. Explore how Jeremy Roth’s use of Elation’s SŌl I Blinders fused retro flair and cutting-edge tech for maximum emotional impact. Plus, get the rundown on the SŌl I Blinder’s features.

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    8 m
  • #320 - Rachael Bronstein - Navigating Finances in the Music Industry
    Jul 31 2025

    Rachael Bronstein is the founder of Life’s Jam, a financial coaching practice focused on supporting the live music industry's behind-the-scenes pros. With 20+ years in finance and operations and a deep love for touring life she helps crews, freelancers, and festivals create money systems that reduce stress and build confidence. Rachael works with MusiCares, ECCHO Live, and HerMoney, and brings financial coaching directly to the road. She’s an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®) based in Miami, passionate about helping people align their money with what matters most.

    In this conversation, Rachel, discusses the importance of financial coaching for professionals in the music industry. She shares insights on the unique financial challenges faced by touring individuals, including debt management, spending habits, and the need for financial education. Rachel emphasizes the significance of tracking expenses and creating a financial plan to build stability and reduce stress. Through her work, she aims to empower individuals to take control of their finances and make informed decisions, ultimately fostering a supportive community within the industry.


    This Episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

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    1 h y 8 m
  • #319 - Rod "Red" Gibson - Evolution of the Event Industry
    Jul 30 2025


    Vice President, Rentals – Christie Lites


    With over four decades in the lighting industry, Rod has built a career defined by hands-on experience, leadership, and deep knowledge across every facet of entertainment lighting. Starting out on the Western Canadian club circuit, Rod moved into touring and corporate work with Westsun and RA Roth, gaining invaluable experience along the way.


    From 1994 to 1997, Rod served as the Vari*Lite operator and technician on the 1st National Tour of Show Boat, followed by nearly a decade touring as a Lighting Director, Designer, and Crew Chief with PRG. In 2006, Rod joined Christie Lites in Seattle as Operations Manager, where he played a key role in expanding shop operations and streamlining workflows. He transitioned into Rentals in 2010, and today serves as Vice President, Rentals.


    Rod’s practical knowledge and show experience give him a unique edge in understanding the needs of clients and crews alike. Outside of work, Rod enjoys fishing, golfing, and cheering on the Seattle Kraken, Seahawks, and Mariners—always finding time for his family amidst a busy career.


    Rod was last on the show two years ago, almost to the day!


    In this episode, the hosts discuss the impact of Ozzy Osbourne's legacy on the music industry, share personal stories from their experiences in touring, and reflect on the evolution of music contracts and the importance of venues. They also touch on the challenges of live shows and the changing landscape of the lighting industry, highlighting Rod Gibson's new role as Vice President of Rentals.


    In this engaging conversation, Marcel and Rodney discuss the evolution of the event industry, focusing on the importance of efficient systems, personal connections, and the challenges faced in the corporate world. They explore the impact of technology on live events, the significance of training and mentorship for new talent, and the motivation that keeps industry veterans engaged in their work. The dialogue highlights the changing landscape of crew dynamics, the necessity of adapting to market demands, and the joy of working in a field that continues to innovate and inspire.


    This Episode is brought to you by ETC and AIM

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    1 h y 56 m
  • #318 - Jake Berry - Behind the Scenes of Ozzy Osbourne's Final Show
    Jul 25 2025

    On this special episode of Geezers of Gear, we have invited the legendary Jake Berry to reflect on his incredible experience managing Ozzy Osbourne’s final show, Back to the Beginning. Held in Birmingham, England, the emotional farewell brought together a massive lineup of rock and metal heavyweights, including Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Tool, and Slayer. Other notable acts included Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice in Chains, Lamb of God, Anthrax, and Mastodon. The event also featured a supergroup with Billy Corgan, Ronnie Wood, Steven Tyler and the original Black Sabbath lineup in a tribute to a career that shaped the face of rock and metal.

    As the world mourns the recent passing of Ozzy Osbourne, this conversation serves as both a behind-the-scenes look at his final bow and a tribute to a true icon. Jake shares what it was like being part of such a historic night, the challenges of putting it all together, and what Ozzy meant to the artists, crew, and fans alike.In this episode, Jake Berry reflects on his experience managing Ozzy Osbourne's final show, a historic event that brought together rock legends and fans alike. He shares insights into the challenges of coordinating such a large-scale production, the emotional moments that defined the night, and the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne in the music industry. The conversation highlights the importance of teamwork, the impact of the event on the music community, and personal reflections on a career filled with memorable experiences.Join us as we honor the Prince of Darkness, celebrate his legacy, and hear firsthand how one of the greatest shows in rock history came to life.


    This Episode is brought to you by Elation and Main Light

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    1 h y 21 m
  • #317 - Roy Bickel - Legendary Rigger, Performer, and Industry Pioneer
    Jul 23 2025

    With a career spanning over 60 years, Roy “Bickel” is a living legend in the world of live entertainment. From his early days as a professional water skier in 1960s Florida to flying through the air as a human cannonball in the circus, Roy’s path has been anything but ordinary.


    In 1969, he transitioned from circus tents to concert tours, launching a groundbreaking rigging career that would span Broadway, arena concerts, Olympics, and global productions. He helped standardize the color-coded wire rope system still used today, trained generations of riggers, and worked with icons like Elvis Presley, Joni Mitchell, Billy Joel, Kiss, Destiny’s Child, Beyoncé.Jethro Tull, Aerosmith, Frank Sinatra, Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Kenny Rogers, Alabama, 10,000 Maniacs, Backstreet Boys, New Kids, Reba and many more.


    Roy’s expertise has taken him from rigging Mary Poppins to fly across arenas, to managing safety on Olympic flames, to innovating load-bearing techniques still in use across the industry. His reputation for grit, ingenuity, and mentorship is unmatched—and his stories are as jaw-dropping as his career.


    An ESTA Lifetime Award recipient and 2025 Parnelli Honoree, Roy continues to work, teach, and inspire—proving that curiosity, courage, and character can take you from a hotel pool ski show to the biggest stages on Earth.



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    1 h y 46 m