Gearsource Geezers Of Gear Podcast

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

Vice President, Rentals – Christie LitesWith 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 Kr

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 hi

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

Elation’s revamped digital presence and renewed values are setting new standards in entertainment lighting. This episode explores their IT modernization, commitment to innovation, and the evolving experience for creators and end-users alike.

Nils Thorjussen – Executive Chairman, Verge AeroNils is a pioneering entrepreneur and technology executive with over three decades of experience shaping the entertainment technology landscape. Now as Executive Chairman of Verge Aero, he’s leading the way in drone show technology, making drone entertainment smarter, safer, and more spectacular.He co-founded Flying Pig Systems (creators of the Wholehog consoles) and Element Labs (known for early LED innovations like VersaTube).Nils was last on the show back in 2019, visit Geezers Of Gear.com to listen to his first episode if you missed it!In this conversation, Nils discusses the evolution of drone technology and its integration into entertainment, particularly in drone shows. He emphasizes the importance of safety standards and regulations, the complementary relationship between drones and fireworks, and the future potential of AI in enhancing drone shows. The conversation also touches on industry challenges, the significance of training, and the need for inte

Chris and Lacy explore ETC’s groundbreaking RigPOV camera accessory and how it’s transforming stage management, lighting design, and safety. Discover how live video streaming, fixture innovation, and accessible technology are reshaping venues from theatres to film sets.

In this episode of the Leading Ladies podcast, Sarah discusses her experiences on tour, focusing on mental health, the challenges of catering, and the importance of team dynamics. She shares personal stories of stress and breakdowns, emphasizing the need for support and organization within the touring environment. The conversation highlights the significance of looking after oneself and being a reliable support for others in the industry.This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

Patrick Dierson is the president of The Activity, a production design firm behind massive shows for artists like Shakira, Drake, and Jay-Z, plus events for FIFA, iHeartRadio, and even the White House. With 30+ years in the business, he’s known for his no-BS approach, sharp design eye, and ability to make any rig—big or small—look like a spectacle.He’s an open book when it comes to the business of entertainment—and he’s got strong opinions about where the live events industry is heading, especially in the face of current economic slowdowns. A devoted time-blocker, staunch advocate for follow-through (his company motto is Acta Non Verba—Actions, Not Words),Patrick brings a refreshing mix of candor, wit, and deep industry experience to every conversation.Patrick was last on the show back in 2023, visit www.geezersofgear.com to check out his episodeThe conversation delves into the advancements in stealth technology, particularly its applications in military operations such as the Bin Laden raid. The discussion hi

Jordan Goodfellow is the CEO of GigRent and founder of The Rare Experience, with over 20 years of experience in technical direction, video engineering, and live event production. Known for his problem-solving mindset and hands-on leadership, Jordan built GigRent into a go-to AV subrental partner for high-stakes corporate and entertainment events across the U.S. His career spans everything from arena tours to Fortune 500 meetings, specializing in screen management, projection mapping, and virtual/hybrid event execution. Whether directing a live show or supporting a last-minute rental, Jordan brings unmatched dedication, technical skill, and calm under pressure.In this engaging conversation, Jordan Goodfellow shares his journey through the live event production industry, from snowy adventures in Canada to his experiences with AI and mentoring. He discusses the importance of networking, the challenges faced in his early career, and the lessons learned from high-pressure situations like working with WWE. The conv

Rigging ReinventedThis episode explores how ETC’s Prodigy Balance is transforming stage rigging. Chris and Lacy dive into its innovative safety features, modular design, and the impact on backstage workflows.

Dive into the bold new Elation REBEL Profile, a compact, IP65-rated powerhouse reshaping professional lighting for both indoor and outdoor events. On this episode of FutureTech, Chris and Lacy break down its innovative features, rugged design, and why it’s quickly becoming the go-to fixture for creative lighting professionals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jXdKgNKJa8MOREBook a Demo: https://www.elationlighting.com/contactElation News & Projects: https://www.elationlighting.com/newsConnect:Facebook: / elationprofessional Instagram: / elationlighting LinkedIn: / elation-lighting #elationlighting #touring #lightingdesign #stagelightinghttps://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@ElationPro⁩ 

Scott is the founder and former CEO of Fisher Technical Services (FTSI), where he developed the industry-changing Navigator control system for live entertainment and film automation. After merging FTSI with Tait, Scott shifted focus to motion control and stunt rigging for major feature films. With decades of experience across touring, themed attractions, and cinema, Scott brings deep insight into the intersection of technology and storytelling.In this conversation, Scott Fisher shares his unique experience in building pirate ships, focusing on the automation systems and special effects involved. He discusses the challenges of construction, his lack of prior knowledge, and the importance of collaboration with experts in various fields such as plumbing, electrical work, and concrete construction. Fisher emphasizes the learning process and the necessity of teamwork in achieving complex projects.This episode is brought to you by ETC anc Artistry In Motion

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 every corner of live production. Known for his calm leadership and deep technical knowledge, he brings a solutions-first mindset to every project.His legacy is rooted in precision, professionalism, and a passion for elevating the live experience.This episode is brought to you by Main Light and Elation

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 what’s changed, what’s remained the same, and what still excites him most about the work. He also opens up about the realities of life after 50 in this business (hello, Freedom 71!), and whether it’s time for live touring crews to push for better wages, healthcare, and long-term support.With his trademark honesty and humility, Benoit shares practical insights on previs, his love for L8 software, and the enduring motto that’s guided his decades-long journey in the lighting world: "Early is on-time. On-time is late.&q

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 ProductionsChris “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, Tool, and Yanni, and built long-lasting relationships across the industry. Known for his calm leadership and commitment to learning by doing, he remains a respected figure in the field. “I still don’t consider this a real job,” he says—just a passion that became a legacy.This Episode is brought to you by Elation and Main Light

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.