Explore every episode of the podcast Geezers of Gear

LEADING LADIES - EPISODE 31

Pauline Di Silvestro, a North London-based Events and Operations Manager, photographer, and creative marketing consultant with 15 years of experience in high-stakes creative environments.

Trilingual and originally from Belgium, Pauline built her career on the road starting in 2010 as a European tour manager—combining a head for complex logistics with an eye for visual storytelling. Over the last decade, she’s applied that operational rigor across London’s creative, live music, and hospitality sectors, leading full production lifecycles, managing multi-departmental teams, and directing major events.

An award-winning photographer recognized by the British Photography Awards and the IPA, Pauline bridges the gap between technical execution and artistic vision.

This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

FUTURETECH Featuring Pyrotecnico

EPISODE 71

Pyrotecnico takes the San Francisco 49ers’ 80th anniversary to the waterfront with a 1,000-drone show over the bay. We explore how large drone fleets create animated 3D storytelling, the challenges of flying over open water, and how Pyrotecnico manages production from choreography and permits to piloting and teardown.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - George Gruel | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI

George Gruel is an entertainment industry veteran whose behind-the-scenes adventures span decades of rock ’n’ roll history. Over a multifaceted career, Gruel has worn nearly every hat imaginable: roadie, road manager, photographer, graphic designer, background singer, lecturer, mentor, and self-described procurer of contraband.

His journey began in 1974 photographing the Bob Dylan and The Band tour for the book Bob Dylan Approximately. Shortly after, he lived in Mill Valley, California, alongside Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead and folk legend Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. Gruel quickly became a fixture on the road, working with the New Riders of the Purple Sage, managing production for Valerie Carter, and joining the Eagles on their 1977 European Hotel California tour.

Gruel is best known for his five defining years (1978–1983) as Warren Zevon’s road manager, aide-de-camp, and best friend. During this era, he shot Zevon’s famous 8x10 promo glossy and photographed the sleeve for Bad Luck Streak in Dancing School. In 1980, he earned a Gold Record for singing background vocals on Don Henley’s hit "Dirty Laundry," and later served as Art Director for David Crosby and Graham Nash’s album Another Stoney Evening.In 2012, Gruel published his worldwide-distributed memoir, Lawyers, Guns & Photos, recounting his wild years with Zevon and friends—later re-released in 2020 as an interactive ePub and Deluxe International Edition.

Most recently, his lasting legacy was featured in the 2022 documentary Immediate Family, where he earned dual credits as photographer and backup singer.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Marshall Bissett | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI

Marshall Bissett was born in Perth, Scotland and studied English at St Andrews University where he did not play golf. He worked in the British repertory theatre system and in London’s West End as a production manager where he met Brian Croft and later Patrick Stansfield who lured him into concert touring. He did tours with The Stones, Elton John, Diana Ross, Neil Diamond and Bob Dylan in Europe. In 1983 he co-founded TMB which became a leading multinational supplier of production equipment. He retired in 2014 and is a freelance writer and photographer for PLSN, Stage Directions, ETC Inc and a couple of fly fishing magazines. He is the co-producer of the Parnelli Awards show and is not afraid to say he loves musicals and fly fishing.

Marshall Bissett was co-founder of TMB (which either meant “Too Many Beers” or Too Much Bulls***” depending on who you talked to, a live event lighting company he retired from in 2014. Born in Perth, Scotland, he came up through legitimate theater before being seduced by Rock and Roll touring with the likes of The Stones, the Who, Neil Diamond, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan, and many others. He currently writes and handles duties as co-producer of the Parnelli Awards show – when he’s not fly fishing.

EPISODE 368

Jerry Lopez—a senior live sound engineer, production manager, and founder of Los Angeles–based Jerry Rig Audio & Creative Solutions.

With over two decades in the live touring industry, Jerry has managed FOH, monitors, and production for artists like Carla Morrison, Natalia Lafourcade, Run The Jewels, and Puscifer, alongside key systems roles at Coachella.

As an audio entrepreneur, Jerry builds fly-ready, compact control packages designed by engineers, for engineers, allowing touring teams to land anywhere in the world and hit the stage with zero friction.

Whether he’s dialing in FOH or navigating cross-border tour logistics, Jerry brings technical excellence and grounded leadership to every stage he touches.

This episode is brought to you by ETC and Main Light

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Steve Terry | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI

Steve Terry is currently the Director of Standards and Industry Relations at ETC. From 2001 to 2004 he was VP of Professional Services, and from 2004-2017, he was VP of Research & Development and led the team that is responsible for global development of new products. During that era, his group was responsible for the development of many new technologies, including the transition to LED light sources and entry into the rigging machinery and controls market.

Steve began his professional career as the Production Electrician for the Dance Theatre of Harlem in 1971. In 1976, he was responsible for the care and feeding of the first computerized lighting control system on Broadway at “A Chorus Line”. From 1977-1981, he was the Production Sound Engineer for that production.Steve joined Production Arts Lighting in 1976, and was Executive Vice President and Chief Engineer until 1998 when the company was acquired by PRG. In that capacity, he led the Systems Integration and Consulting Group of Production Arts.

In 1986, he chaired the USITT Committee that wrote the internationally-accepted DMX512 standard for digital communications in lighting systems. This standard has had perhaps the largest economic impact of any single item on the lighting industry over the last 40 years, by enabling wide interoperability of equipment from multiple manufacturers. Today, we take such interoperability for granted, but before DMX512, that was not the case.Steve has maintained an active involvement in lighting industry standards for more than 45 years.

He founded the USITT National Electrical Code Committee in 1980 and was its original chair. He was appointed to National Electrical Code Panel 15 in 1994, and continues to represent the USITT in that role today. He was a founding member of the ESTA Technical Standards Program, and continues active participation in that program. He is a recipient of the prestigious ESTA Eva Swan Award and the Wally Russell Award for Lifetime Achievement.

LEADING LADIES EPISODE 30

Madi Adams, a touring lighting designer, programmer, and grandMA3 instructor whose work spans the biggest arenas, stages, and broadcasts in the world.

With an incredible resume that ranges from serving as Lighting Director for David Byrne's World Tour and Radio City Music Hall resident LD for Hugh Jackman, to designing and programming for Kesha, The Roots, and Hozier—Madi is one of live music’s most versatile lighting talents.

From high-profile fashion shows for Louis Vuitton and Victoria's Secret to world tours for legendary acts like Billy F. Gibbons and WWE, Madi bridges deep technical precision with raw creative spectacle.

This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Roy Bickel | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI 

Roy was a circus rigger and performer prior to being hired as the head rigger for the first “Disney on Parade” show in 1969. He continued until 1974 when he left for Broadway to work for Pete Feller. After some time there, he went on to work the Rolling Stones tour in 1975. That marked the beginning of a long career as a “rock & roll” rigger. 

As the first head rigger on the Disney on Parade shows he trained people in climbing techniques, rigging procedures, and physical fitness regimens to maintain peak shape. Roy's techniques were taught to many first-generation entertainment riggers. This training greatly helped the industry's rapid expansion during the rock & roll explosion. 

Roy was and is a true innovator. Perhaps the two most notable contributions that changed the rigging world to what it looks like today were the introduction of slings with screw pin anchor shackles around 50 years ago. Along with the sling development, he specified the orientation and sizes of shackles used with the slings; these methods are still in use today.

A natural problem-solver, Roy revolutionized industry rigging standards during the 1970s by developing a color-coded system for wire rope lengths (Red, White, Blue, Green, and Yellow for 5’, 10’, 20’, 30’, and 50’ respectively) an intuitive organizational method that remains the industry standard today. His pioneering work extended into production logistics; ahead of the Rolling Stones’ iconic 1975 tour, Roy teamed up with Bill McManus of McManus Lighting to collaborate with CM (Columbus McKinnon). Together, they engineered a way to operate chain hoist motors in the "motor down" position. This breakthrough debuted on the Jethro Tull tour, making it the first tour in history to utilize chain motors. Roy's versatile rigging expertise also includes his work with Disney, where he managed complex setups utilizing drum motors, block and falls, and cable climbers 

Roy received the ESTA Lifetime Technical Achievement Award in 2021

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Mark Fetto | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Mark Fetto started working as a lighting technician in the late 1970s, working his way through the ranks at the Obie Company and Vari-Lite. He then became a lighting designer and senior programmer. In 1989 Mark opened Vari-Lite's satellite office in Las Vegas. He went on to become general manager of Vari-Lite's Dealer Network and later General Manager of North American Operations.,

Following a 16-year career at Vari-Lite, Mark joined Stage Rigging, Inc. as the National Sales Manager before moving to his position as Chief Operating Officer at Morpheus Lights for 14 years. Mark oversaw touring systems, new inventory, infrastructure, and operational strategies in both production and manufacturing.

In 2019 Mark joined OSA International as their Vice President, Lighting and he is now learning how to be a grandpa to four grandkids. The priorities are shifting. Mark's motto in life is: “Do it now, because you can’t count on being here tomorrow.”

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Nancy May | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Nancy May is a seasoned administrative project manager and production executive with more than three decades of experience overseeing large-scale live events, venue operations, and broadcast productions. Her career spans some of the most iconic venues and productions in the United States, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Denver Performing Arts Complex, and Dick Clark Productions, as well as international sporting and cultural events such as the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games and the Aspen X Games.

Most recently, Nancy served as Administrative Project Manager for the 2024 Aspen X Games with Brown United, where she provided critical oversight of staging, sponsor accommodations, and technical structures, ensuring compliance and safety while liaising with event safety officers and local contractors.

Nancy’s career highlights include serving as Director of Production Operations at Outback Presents, Director of Venues at Swallow Hill Music, and Production Manager at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Denver Coliseum, and Denver Arts & Venues—where she advanced and managed hundreds of concerts, festivals, and civic events while leading teams through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also held senior production roles on nationally televised broadcasts, including live music specials and award shows, combining her expertise in operations, financial management, union/non-union labor, and sponsor relations.

With deep expertise in event planning, production logistics, and venue management, Nancy has earned a reputation as a reliable leader who can seamlessly manage complex projects from concept through execution. Known for her collaborative leadership style, problem-solving ability, and commitment to safety and excellence, she continues to bring value to both nonprofit organizations and high-profile commercial productions.

FUTURETECH Featuring ETC

EPISODE 70

ETC’s Hog OS v5.3 adds a graphical framing shutter tool, touch-based window resizing, six-part screen layouts, more U Keys, and recording and masking updates. We also cover OSC over local WiFi on new consoles, support for two Tour Wing playback wings, and what ETC says about performance, stability, and future development.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Bud Horowitz | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Born and raised in New York, Bud Horowitz fell in love with theatre while in high school. After graduating from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a BA in Theatre, Bud has spent the last 45 years lighting shows worldwide.

He has spent a large part of that time touring internationally with musical artists, lighting shows in over 80 countries. Artists that he has toured with range from Devo and John Mellencamp to Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, Bette Midler, Brian Setzer, Sebastian Maniscalco and Yanni. He has lit a number of PBS specials and other video projects, including DVDs with Yanni at the El Morro Fort in Puerto

Rico and the Great Pyramids at Giza. When not on the road, Bud lights a number of award shows and special events, including the NHRA Awards, EMA Awards and the Clive Davis Grammy Party. Bud currently resides in Camas, Washington, where he shares his life with his wife Linda, son Seth and 3 horses. He still, after all these years, loves to travel and enjoys spending time in the redwoods and the coasts of Oregon and Washington, as well as international destinations.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Jay Robert (Bob) Harmon | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

It was 1974, when 16-year-old Jay Robert (Bob) Harmon was enjoying life in growing up in Kailua, Oahu, when, while showing old 16mm films at a pizza parlor, a customer asked if he had ever worked concert lighting before…without a pause, he immediately said, “Of Course!”…though he hadn’t…and booked his first job that very weekend.

After lighting that first concert, for Brewer & Shipley of ʻOne Toke Over The Lineʻ and ʻBallad of a Country Dogʻ fame for 3,000 people at the University of Hawaii, Harmon would go on to light a sellout show for KISS at the HIC (Hawaii International Center) and never looked back. 

Today, his boutique production company, Eggshell Lighting Company, is a nationally recognized and endeared provider of lighting and visual production for everything from the smallest of weddings to the largest of concerts. 

Fifty-plus some odd years later, Harmon still loves how a change in lighting can affect an audience, shifting their moods and providing the background for the greatest memories in their lives.

EPISODE 367

Tal Kochav is a Lighting Designer, Director and Programmer working across concerts, television, theatre and major live events. With a strong technical background and extensive experience with grandMA3, Tal brings together creative design, programming and a deep understanding of every role within a lighting team.

From touring the world as one of the youngest members of a crew to designing and programming major productions including Alessia Cara’s Love & Hyperbole World Tour, CMA Fest and Max McNown, Tal has built a career around constantly learning and making the next show better.

His motto says it perfectly: “Don’t do the same thing twice if you can make the next thing better.”

This Episode is brought to you by Main Light and Delicate Productions

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Anne Militello | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Starting out as a teen as one the first girl roadies for small touring companies in the San Francisco Bay area in the late 1970’s, she learned the ropes from some of the best - climbing trusses and coiling cable on tours for artists like Santana and Eddie Money. When she hit her head on the glass ceiling on her way to being an LD, she started lighting bands in clubs right as the punk scene was exploding – a scene that welcomed gender diversity.

She lit bands at San Francisco’s notorious Mabuhay Gardens before heading to New York where she cut her design teeth in the after-hours chaos of CBGB's, Danceteria, The Ritz, and The Mudd Club. By day, she worked as a shop electrician at Production Arts Lighting in Hell's Kitchen — sharpening the technical part of her craft. 

While in New York, she also designed plays and earned an OBIE Award for lighting design for the Off Broadway Theater. By 28, she was designing on Broadway. The stage led her back to music after a meeting with Tom Waits reignited her love of concert design. Her work on his tours put her work in front of the industry and soon she was designing lighting for Pearl Jam, Lou Reed, Robert Plant, Leonard Cohen and more.

Through her passion for exploring all “angles” of lighting exploration and design, she also became a Walt Disney Imagineer, a professor at CalArts, and the founder of Vortex Lighting in Hollywood, where she now designs light for everything from concerts to architecture. Her latest project: a public, moving-light art spectacle in Santa Monica, CA.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Peter Morse | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

With a career that spans over 50 years, Emmy Winner Peter Morse has worked with some of the world’s best performers and their astonishing productions. He has collaborated with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Barbara Streisand, Prince, Usher, Bette Midler, Shania Twain, Carrie Underwood, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Lopez, Janet Jackson, Andrea Bocelli, The Eagles, Sean Combs, Dolly Parton, Reba, John Denver, and many more.

He has lent his illuminating talents to numerous production shows such as "Glee", "Disney on Ice", "Ringling Brothers and Barnum&Bailey's 'Greatest Show On Earth'"; as well as feature films: "The Bodyguard"; "Showgirls";  and "Truth or Dare". Peter has always appreciated the expression of design as a sampling of art and culture, and has found inspiration in many mediums as well as in many collaborations.

He has enjoyed working with Directors such as Kenny Ortega, Amy Tinkham, Raj Kapoor, Jamie King; Designers like Butch Allen, Michael Cotten, Mark Fisher, Bob Bonniol; as well as gifted entertainment technicians too numerous to count…

LEADING LADIES PODCAST #30

Sophya Acosta - Lighting Designer / Light Artist / Educator / Founder at Sophya Acosta Lighting Design Studio

An Argentine lighting designer, researcher, and international professor based in Barcelona. She is the founder and director of Sophya Acosta Lighting Design Studio, a decentralized international practice behind groundbreaking projects in Light Art, stage and performance lighting, architectural design, and strategic consulting across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

Known for treating light not just as a visual tool, but as an emotional language and an active character on stage, Sophya also leads LIGHT.LAB, a dedicated research and training node exploring the future of sustainable, immersive light design. She teaches at premier design institutions like EINA and La Salle Ramon Llull University in Barcelona, and regularly serves on global juries for the LIT Design and [d]arc awards.

This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Chris Musgrave | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Chris Musgrave has spent more than thirty years within the global live event and entertainment industry — as a tour / production manager, producer, executive, and connector who moves as comfortably in the boardroom as he does on the show floor.

He is the founder of MAD International (Musgrave Advanced Dynamics), an executive advisory practice serving manufacturers, production companies, venues, hospitality organizations, and entrepreneurs across live entertainment, corporate events, touring, and of Tour Pros International, built specifically for the touring and production community. He also directs the Live Production Summit (LPS), a curated executive community built on education, collaboration, and authentic relationship building — deliberately designed without the transactional atmosphere of a typical trade show.

Chris works at the intersection of strategy and execution: business development, strategic partnerships, sponsorship development, marketing strategy, experiential design, and large-scale international logistics. Organizations bring him in when a challenge is bigger than any one department can solve — a stalled partnership, an underperforming sponsorship program, an operational bottleneck, or a relationship that needs rebuilding.

What sets his work apart is less what he produces than who he connects. Over three decades, he has linked manufacturers with buyers, executives with peers, and organizations with the partners that help them grow, treating every introduction with the same care as a signed contract. Colleagues know him for straightforward communication, calm judgment under pressure, and a long memory for who does good work and why it matters.

He speaks regularly on leadership, innovation, business development, sponsorship, networking, industry trends, event strategy, production, technology, and workforce development — drawing on decades spent on both sides of the table, as producer and as client.

His philosophy is simple. Business is ultimately about people. Technology changes the tools available; it doesn't change what makes people trust each other enough to build something together. Great events happen because great teams work well together, and great partnerships form the same way — through honest relationships, built consistently over time.

Chris believes the most valuable outcomes in business rarely begin with a transaction. They begin with a conversation.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Cosmo Wilson | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Cosmo is an industry-defining concert lighting designer and director widely considered a living legend in rock-and-roll production. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Cosmo has shaped the visual identity of stadium rock, blending a brilliant creative vision with a reputation as one of the most respected and beloved personalities in live music.

After getting his start on touring road crews in 1986, Cosmo quickly rose through the ranks to become the lighting crew chief for The Rolling Stones’ historic 1989 Steel Wheels tour. Since then, he has collaborated with over 40 of history’s biggest musical acts, including Aerosmith, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and Judas Priest. He also famously directed the lighting for the historic 1992 Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert at Wembley Stadium.

Cosmo’s most enduring partnership is with AC/DC. Since 1990, he has directed over 700 shows for the band, illuminating everything from the 1991 Monsters of Rock festival in Moscow before 1.6 million fans to their recent Power Up world tour. A multi-time Parnelli and Pinnacle Award winner, Cosmo continues to dominate the global stadium circuit, recently designing the high-impact look for Aerosmith’s Peace Out farewell tour.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Robert Roth | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI  

Robert A. Roth, Vice President of Live Events at 4Wall Entertainment and Founder of Eccentric Design, continues to shape live event production with the inventive streak that launched his career nearly six decades ago. A rare triple threat, Roth seamlessly bridges business, design, and technology to navigate complex productions from every angle, overseeing strategy for major stadium tours, broadcast productions, and corporate events.

Across his career, Roth has been a creative visionary for globally recognized artists, including Eagles, Billy Joel, Metallica, Justin Bieber, Eric Church, Bad Bunny, The Jacksons, and Ozzy Osbourne, as well as “The Trilogy Tour” featuring Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, and Ricky Martin.

His journey started at just 14 in Athens, Georgia, where he created his first projection performance, “The Aurora Lite Show.” Choosing the road over Georgia Tech, he found mentorship from industry veterans like Lynyrd Skynyrd’s original road manager and founded R.A. Roth, Inc. in 1975. A major milestone came in the early 1980s with his lighting design for The Jacksons’ “Victory Tour,” elevating his work globally. Always innovating, he integrated early CAD systems into his workflow through ventures like Source Point Design.

Roth later joined Production Resource Group (PRG) in 1997 as Vice President, spent 15 years as a Sales Executive at Christie Lites, and eventually transitioned to 4Wall Entertainment. His diverse portfolio also spans television, festivals, Tyler Perry's stage tours, and historic political events, including Barack Obama’s 2008 election night broadcast.

A dedicated mentor, Roth remains driven by one core philosophy: stay curious, stay committed, and make it work.

FUTURETECH Featuring Pangolin and Artistry In Motion

EPISODE 69

We break down Justin Perry's official appointment as President of both Pangolin Laser Systems and Artistry in Motion Group following their merger. Discover how this formal leadership shift unites the worlds of high-tech laser systems and live-event confetti without disrupting ongoing operations.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Seth Jackson | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI

Seth Jackson has twice won the Parnelli Award for Set Design of the Year, the Redden Award for Lighting Design of the Year, the Broadway World Los Angeles Award for Lighting Design of the Year, and the LIT Award for Concert Design.

In 2024, he was the lighting and production designer for The Doobie Brothers Tour 2024 and the lighting designer for Labyrinth in Concert, as well as production designing the final shows for country icon Toby Keith before his death in March 2024.

On Broadway, Seth directed and designed Manilow On Broadway at the St. James Theater. In Los Angeles, he co-designed (with Jeff Croiter) the lighting for Harmony at the Ahmanson. In St. Louis, he designed lighting for The Rep, The Muny, and the New Jewish Theater.

He was the creative director & production designer for two Selena Gomez World Tours, twenty-five years for Barry Manilow, and served as associate director and production designer for Star Wars in Concert with industry legend Steve Cohen. He served for twenty years as production designer for Toby Keith, three tours as production designer for Carrie Underwood,  as well as production designs for Alice Cooper and Kenny G.  He provided lighting designs for Don Henley, Jason Mraz, Melissa Etheridge, American Idols Live, Hilary Duff, America's Got Talent Live, and The Doobie Brothers.

In Las Vegas, he was the creative director and production designer for Manilow: Music & Passion. On Television, he was the lighting designer for Don Henley's Inside Job Live, Manilow Live from Las Vegas, and Manilow: Live at the Paris.

He is a featured speaker at numerous industry events and is the author of CONCERT DESIGN: The Road, The Craft, The Industry.

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - Jeff Alder | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI

Jeff Alder Lighting Designer | Author | Rock & Roll Pioneer

Jeff is a survivor of the “Pirate Years” of rock and roll, a wild, lawless era when concert lighting was invented in real time. From the psychedelic liquid light shows of the early 1970s to the birth of automated technology, Jeff didn’t just witness the industry's evolution; he was one of its primary architects.

The Road & The RigJeff’s career is a roadmap of rock history. He began by running lights for Grand Funk (back when they were still a “Railroad”) and eventually bookended his career with them decades later. Along the way, he became a pivotal figure in the stage's technical revolution, working with Fantasee Lighting soon after they developed the analog Cyklops and later pushing Morpheus Lights toward the R&D of computer-controlled systems.

His portfolio reads like a Hall of Fame induction list. Jeff designed and directed lighting for legendary acts including:

Santana (his personal favorite)

Huey Lewis and the News

Aerosmith

Cyndi Lauper

Ozzy Osbourne

Alice Cooper

War

Pablo Cruise

Success Through "Losing"The high-octane lifestyle of the road met a sudden halt in the mid-90s when a collapsed vertebra forced Jeff into a career transition. Moving from the stage to the corporate world and the classroom, he adapted his "pirate" grit into a new kind of resilience.

Today, Jeff is a dedicated cyclist and an educator who shares his deep knowledge of production management and the psychological toll of the touring industry.How to Be a Lighting GuyJeff recently captured his decades of chaos and creativity in his book, A Misfit's Guide to How to Be a Lighting Guy (During the Pirate Years of Concert Touring). More than just a technical manual, the book is a raw reflection on innovation, the importance of camaraderie, and the art of the comeback.

As Jeff puts it, while he walked away with plenty of memorabilia, his greatest reward was "learning how to succeed at a lifetime of losing." He remains a passionate voice in the industry, advocating for lighting that serves the music and supporting mental health awareness for the next generation of road warriors.

EPISODE 366

Kevin Hughes, Senior Product Specialist and Project Manager at Pyrotek Special Effects.

Operating out of Pyrotek’s Toronto office, Kevin is a licensed Special Effects Technician who has spent over 15 years designing and executing massive pyrotechnics, custom propane flame effects, and atmospheric design for the live event industry.

If you’ve seen live pyrotechnics on tour with Green Day, Guns N' Roses, Rush, or the Jonas Brothers, or caught spectacular displays at the Grammys, the Super Bowl, or the American Music Awards, you’ve seen Kevin’s work in action.

This episode is brought to you by Pangolin and Artistry In Motion

Geezers Of Gear Podcast: Legend Series - John Featherstone | Dining With Dinosaurs at LDI

John FeatherstonePrincipal | Lightswitch Inc.

John is a visionary in the world of visual design, known for bridging the gap between high-energy spectacle and architectural elegance.

As a Principal at Lightswitch Inc., John leads a global collective of designers dedicated to transforming how people experience the world through light, media, and visual storytelling.From Rock & Roll to Refined Design

Originally from the United Kingdom, John brought his formal theater training and a "rock and roll" sensibility to the United States in 1989. His early career was forged on the road as a veteran lighting designer for major concert tours worldwide. This foundation in live entertainment, where technical precision must meet raw emotion became the catalyst for his diverse and award-winning portfolio.

A Reputation for InnovationJohn has built a reputation for producing singular, elegant designs that utilize cutting-edge technology without sacrificing cost-effectiveness. His expertise spans a vast array of disciplines, including:

Experiences & Entertainment: Creating immersive environments that captivate audiences.

Museums & Architecture: Using light to reveal the soul of a structure or the story of an artifact.

Corporate & Events: Crafting powerful moments that foster deep connection and brand impact.

The Lightswitch PhilosophyUnder John’s leadership, Lightswitch operates as a collaborative powerhouse with studios across the globe. The practice is defined by a commitment to "unexpected wonder," ensuring that every project from a massive live event to a permanent architectural installation is infused with a sense of discovery.

John remains perennially in pursuit of the next great project, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the design industry. Whether he works with a team of artists or navigates the specific needs of a complex site, his goal remains the same: to create unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impression.

Dining With Dinosaurs with LDI Special Podcast

In 1971, while attending college in Denver, Scott De Vos helped load gear for a Nitty Gritty Dirt Band concert in exchange for free entry. That single night launched a lifelong career in live music production.He quickly joined a local sound company and by 1973 was managing stage and production for a venue hosting Kenny Rogers, Ray Charles, B.B. King, Steve Martin, and Willie Nelson. Life on the road soon followed.

He toured with a prominent jazz artist, then spent years building massive outdoor stages for stadium tours with Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, the Eagles, and Fleetwood Mac.

In 1979, he switched to lighting and while working with Obie’s, toured with the Allman Brothers, Willie Nelson, and Fleetwood Mac.It was on the road that he met his wife, Julie. They married in 1980.

Back in Colorado, Scott joined Feyline Concerts, where he designed and built a roof for the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater. He went on to manage concerts at Red Rocks and McNichols Arena, working with the Stones, The Who, Grateful Dead, Simon & Garfunkel, and dozens of other major acts.

In 1987 he moved to Los Angeles, returned to Obie’s Lighting, and rose to Vice President and General Manager. Six years later, he opened Obie’s Nashville office. In 1996, Scott and Julie launched De Lux Productions, building long-term relationships with clients including the Country Radio Seminar, Gospel Music Association, Salem Media Group, the Dove Awards, Bass Pro Shops, and Vanderbilt University.

Today, they live and ride in the mountains of East Tennessee with their animals. Their greatest joy is spending time with their two sons and their families, which include three beautiful grandchildren.

LEADING LADIES PODCAST - EPISODE #29 Spotlight: Joanna Benauer | Founder & Owner, NSNS Entertainment SolutionsFrom local New England venues to arena grids across 40+ countries, Joanna Benauer has built a 16-year career at the intersection of creative production design and structural engineering.As an ETCP-certified rigger for over a decade, Joanna’s expertise spans: Advanced 3D drafting & Vectorworks overlays . Structural weight studies & load distribution analysis. Rigging advancing & tour management. Complex automation, motor tech, & dynamic flying systemsThrough her company, NSNS Entertainment Solutions (Lititz, PA), Joanna and her team bridge the gap between ambitious visual concepts and safe, real-world execution. Her portfolio includes world-class tours and productions for major artists including Weezer, Madonna, The Smashing Pumpkins, Conan Gray, Leon Bridges, KISS, and Cirque du Soleil.Whether she's managing multi-axis automated lighting pods on arena tours or advancing complex venue grids, Joanna brings a collaborative, safety-first mindset to every project.This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

FUTURETECH PODCAST Featuring Event Wire

EPISODE 68Discover how EventWire uses smart aggregation to filter hundreds of live production stories down to essential five-minute daily briefs. Learn how features like keyword watchlists, brand pages, and dedicated audio updates help production pros cut through industry noise.

EPISODE #635

Steven "Creech" Anderson is a key figure in the live music production industry and a core member of the team at Premier Global Production (PGP), a lighting and staging company based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Known across the industry simply as "Creech," he has spent years supporting major arena and stadium tours. As a key contact and leader at PGP, Creech plays an integral role in facilitating lighting systems, venue logistics, and concert production setups for premier touring acts.

Throughout his career in live event production, Creech has built strong partnerships with artists, tour managers, and international production vendors. Beyond his work on major tours, he has been involved with key operational developments at PGP, including facility expansions and the rollout of Camp PGP—a turnkey live streaming and rehearsal production soundstage at the company's Nashville headquarters.

This episode is brought to you by ETC and Main Light

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

EPISODE: 364

Welcome to our ultimate guide to LDI 2026.Today, we're unlocking the best-kept secrets of the LDI website, from booking hands-on control network training to scoring a ticket to the exclusive Dining with Dinosaurs dinner, where the industry's living legends pass down fifty years of rock-and-roll touring wisdom.Whether you're a young professional under twenty-five looking for a break, or a veteran programmer looking for a challenge, this is your master plan for Las Vegas.

Let's dive in.

EPISODE 67

We break down Pangolin’s redesigned Unity Elite PRO series, from the Elite 60 PRO’s major weight and power reductions to its impressive red output, tight beam divergence, and integrated FB4 control. Plus, we cover the practical upgrades crew members will appreciate, including yoke angle reference markings and full IP65 weatherproofing for demanding tours and festivals.

EPISODE 67

We break down how a historic riverfront festival pulled off a jaw-dropping spectacle: fireworks launched from barges and a bridge, synced to live radio, and timed with hundreds of drones over the Ohio River. From GPS anchoring and SMPTE timecode to FAA clearances and safety zones, it’s a look at the production complexity behind a modern outdoor show.

EPISODE 66

ETC’s latest Hog HPU Plus packs full console power into a 2U rack unit, delivering headless operation, DMX processing, and support for 64 universes. The episode also covers its ruggedized rear-panel IO, legacy support for original HPU units, and ETC’s five-year warranty commitment.

Robert A. Roth, Vice President of Live Events at 4Wall Entertainment and Founder of Eccentric Design, continues to shape live event production with the inventive streak that launched his career nearly six decades ago. A rare triple threat, Roth seamlessly bridges business, design, and technology to navigate complex productions from every angle, overseeing strategy for major stadium tours, broadcast productions, and corporate events

Across his career, Roth has been a creative visionary for globally recognized artists, including Eagles, Billy Joel, Metallica, Justin Bieber, Eric Church, Bad Bunny, The Jacksons, and Ozzy Osbourne, as well as “The Trilogy Tour” featuring Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull, and Ricky Martin.

His journey started at just 14 in Athens, Georgia, where he created his first projection performance, “The Aurora Lite Show.” Choosing the road over Georgia Tech, he found mentorship from industry veterans like Lynyrd Skynyrd’s original road manager and founded R.A. Roth, Inc. in 1975. A major milestone came in the early 1980s with his lighting design for The Jacksons’ “Victory Tour,” elevating his work globally. Always innovating, he integrated early CAD systems into his workflow through ventures like Source Point Design.

Roth later joined Production Resource Group (PRG) in 1997 as Vice President, spent 15 years as a Sales Executive at Christie Lites, and eventually transitioned to 4Wall Entertainment. His diverse portfolio also spans television, festivals, Tyler Perry's stage tours, and historic political events, including Barack Obama’s 2008 election night broadcast.

A dedicated mentor, Roth remains driven by one core philosophy: stay curious, stay committed, and make it work.

Robert A. Roth is a veteran executive, designer, and entrepreneur in live event production and lighting design with a career spanning nearly six decades. Known for bridging creative design, business strategy, and technological innovation, he has designed and managed lighting systems for major stadium tours, television broadcasts, historic political events, and corporate productions.

EPISODE 27LEADING LADIES PodcastTee-Cee Bailey shares her extensive experience in the music touring industry, her journey with Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, and insights into the evolving nature of touring, work-life balance, and mental health support.Tee-Cee shares her extensive experience in the music touring industry, emphasizing the importance of human connection, evolving technology, and supporting the next generation of industry professionals.This episode highlights the human element behind the scenes and the power of music to unite and inspire.

EPISODE 65On the occasion of the Nuit Blanche, our GigaPix boats boarded the famous float of the Pari Roller & Mobilités Association to accompany this great night hike in the heart of the capital.Two GigaPix and two Lonestar Prime cars punctuated the route and accompanied the participants through the streets of Paris.Every Friday evening, Pari Roller & Mobilités organizes a free ride, open to all and supervised by volunteers: a great way to discover Paris in a different way... on wheels!We break down how weather-resistant, high-output fixtures can thrive on a moving parade float during Nuit Blanche in Paris. The conversation covers IP54 protection, Integrated Fresnel optics, RGBL color mixing, and wireless DMX control for mobile lighting rigs.

Episode 361

From selling homemade fog fluid out of the trunk of a 1993 Buick LeSabre at just 18 years old to building one of the live entertainment industry’s leading atmospheric effects companies, Vince Camerano’s story is anything but ordinary.As founder and CEO of **Master FX**, Vince has spent more than 15 years turning a lifelong obsession with Halloween, haunted attractions, and special effects into a USA-based manufacturer of professional fog, haze, low-lying fog, snow, and atmospheric effects equipment and fluids used across concerts, theatre, theme parks, and major live events.

What started as *Master Fog* grew through curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to solve problems others couldn't. Vince recognized early that production professionals needed cleaner, more reliable fluids and equipment that could protect expensive lighting and production gear — and built Master FX around that philosophy.But Vince’s story is about more than gear. He’s a believer in relationships, adaptability, patience, innovation, and simply being nice.

He also shares those lessons as host of **Beyond the Limelight**, where he talks with leaders from across the entertainment industry.From the trunk of a Buick to Super Bowl productions, Vince Camerano is a great example of what can happen when passion meets persistence.

EPISODE 64Pangolin are excited to feature at madz.fxs and their incredible laser design, programming, and live operation for Verknipt Malaysia 2026. Using Pangolin BEYOND and FB4, they transformed the energy of hard techno into an immersive laser experience.Explore how Madz.fxs transformed a hard techno show into a 360-degree laser environment with twelve 40W projectors spread across the venue.The episode breaks down the hybrid workflow of Pangolin BEYOND, FB4 hardware, timecode precision, and live busking on an AKAI APC40 MK II to keep the visuals intense without overwhelming the crowd.

EPISODE 63It is now official: Pyrotecnico and Freedom 250 have earned the Guinness World Records title for the largest fireworks display, with 840,537 fireworks illuminating Washington, D.C., in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.The record measures the display's scale. What it cannot fully capture are the months of planning, precision, sacrifice and teamwork required to make such an undertaking possible.This episode breaks down how D.C.'s record-setting fireworks display synced 840,537 launches to music with millisecond precision. From SMPTE timecode and e-matches to negative offsets and safety diagnostics, it explores the engineering behind a massive, perfectly timed sky show.

Episode #360

In this episode, we explore the innovative world of industry media, sponsorships, and the future of event technology. Marcel and Sarah discuss their projects like EventWire, Dining with Dinosaurs, and the importance of authentic partnerships in the live events industry. In this episode, Geezers of Gear shares insights into the rapid development of AI tools like Perplexity Computer and EventWire, highlighting their impact on the industry and the importance of embracing technology. Sarah and Marcel discuss the evolution of media, industry connections, and future trends in live event technology.

Episode 359

Bert Delgado is the Senior Vice President of Production & Technical Operations at TelevisaUnivision, where he leads production, broadcast operations, and technical infrastructure across the company's news, sports, entertainment, and streaming platforms.

With more than 40 years in the television industry, Bert has helped shape some of the biggest advancements in broadcast production, from Univision's transition to digital and HD to overseeing major live events including the Latin Grammys, World Cup coverage, and some of Spanish-language television's most iconic programs.A respected industry leader and champion of innovation, Bert is also helping launch the Creative Production Experience, or CPX, a new event designed to bring together professionals from television, film, live events, sports, and creative technology to explore the future of content production.This version is concise, conversational, and gives listeners a clear sense of Bert's experience and why he's an important voice in the industry.

This episode is brought to you by ETC and Delicate Productions

EPISODE 62FUTURETECH Featuring Pangolin This episode traces Kvant’s rise from classroom laser demos and clunky gas-laser rigs to a world-class brand built on proprietary diode modules, smarter show control, and the Beam Brush. It also explores how partnerships with MA Lighting and Pangolin helped bring lasers into mainstream production workflows while scaling power from milliwatts to monster sky lasers.

Episode 358

In this episode, Patti Thurston shares her journey from a lighting designer and marketing executive to her thoughts on industry changes, the importance of networking, and the value of kindness. We explore how technology, AI, and industry shifts impact careers and community in the live event industry.

Patti shares her journey from theater lighting to becoming the first female IATSE stagehand in Philadelphia, her experiences in touring with major artists like Patty LaBelle, and her insights into the evolution of the industry, including the challenges and opportunities for women in technical roles.This episode is brought to you by ETC and Main Light

EPISODE 61FUTURETECH - Featuring ETCWe dig into the high-pressure artistry of running a major comedy tour completely live, from manually firing 111-cue sequences to keeping split-second jokes locked in without timecode. The episode also explores creative preprogramming at home, lighting against giant LED walls, festival rig cloning, and why the desk was so intuitive a nine-year-old could run a set.

EPISODE 26LEADING LADIES PODCASTIn this episode, Malle, CEO of Women in Live Music (WILM), shares her inspiring journey from sound engineer to founder of a global community supporting women and underrepresented groups in the music industry. She discusses industry challenges, the importance of community, and how to foster diversity and inclusion backstage.Malle Kaas is a live sound engineer, certified nurse anesthetist, and the CEO and co-founder of Women In Live Music (WILM), the European organization dedicated to supporting professionals working behind the scenes in live entertainment. Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Malle has spent more than 20 years mixing live sound for bands, festivals, venues, and rental companies across Europe and around the world.In 2018, after witnessing the challenges and gender bias faced by women backstage, she co-founded WILM, which has grown into a thriving community of more than 7,500 live event professionals focused on networking, mentorship, education, and creating safer, more inclusive workplaces.Alongside her work in live production, Malle is a certified nurse anesthetist, freelances throughout Scandinavia, and serves as a staff member with RoadieMedic, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership, and medical experience to the industry.A passionate advocate for better working conditions, professional development, and greater diversity behind the scenes, Malle continues to tour while leading WILM's mission to help shape a stronger, more inclusive future for live entertainment.This episode is brought to you by Lightswitch

EPISODE 60FUTURETECH Featuring PyrotecnicoWe break down the jaw-dropping logistics behind a massive Washington, D.C. pyrotechnics display, from hazmat transport and federal oversight to the split-second control it takes to launch a historic show.Then we explore how fireworks power the sports business, why corporate sponsors love them, and how drones are reshaping—but not replacing—the boom.

EPISODE 59Futuretech Featuring ETCETC is making a major leadership shift with Darren Beckley stepping into a new European operations role while David Lincecum refocuses on automated lighting growth and APAC oversight. The episode also highlights ETC’s new community support through Geezers of Gear and its partnership with Eventwire.

FUTURETECH Featuring Artistry In Motion  and Pangolin Laser Systems.

This week on Geezers Of Gear - FutureTech, Chris and Lacy dive into the massive news shaking up the special effects world: Artistry In Motion (AIM) is merging with Pangolin Laser Systems.

We break down what this means for live production, touring crews, and the future of spectacular show design. Will we see laser-guided confetti, or is this all about backend R&D and logistics?

(Spoiler: It's a bit of both!) Plus, we discuss why AIM's day-to-day operations in LA aren't changing, and how this alliance represents a major step forward for the live entertainment industry.

FUTURETECH Featuring Pyrotecnico

We explore the massive logistics behind Washington, D.C.’s planned Fourth of July spectacle, from ten launch sites and barges on the Potomac to hand-packed shells and a laptop that couldn’t handle the programming load.

The episode also looks at how Pyrotecnico and Live Events combine old-school craftsmanship with high-tech synchronization to create a jaw-dropping experience for the crowd.