Explore every episode of the podcast The Event Safety Podcast

Danielle invites UK crowd safety specialists Eric Stuart and Miriam Stone to discuss the role of steward in the field of crowd management and trace the lines between volunteers, stewards, and licensed security.

Eric lays out a five-tier crowd-management hierarchy -- volunteers, stewards, security, police, military -- with stewards sitting just above volunteers: paid, unlicensed, responsible for wayfinding and soft enforcement. Miriam adds that in the UK anything above steward requires a license and training. The conversation also covers volunteer management, noting that fans of the event rarely no-show while general volunteers need clear expectations and something meaningful in return for their time. The group debates whether stewards should face the crowd outright or monitor at a 45-degree angle, and argues for briefing them to spot behavioral outliers -- heat illness, crowd distress, demographic mismatches. 

Guests:

Miriam Stone | Operations Consultant, Arena and Venue Industry

Miriam Stone | LinkedIn

Eric Stuart | Owner and Director, Gentian Events

Eric Stuart QPM | LinkedIn

Hosts: Danielle Hernandez

Tami Richter, ESA's current president, moderates the second commemorative webinar panel, titled "Looking Forward: Education, Collaboration, and the Future of Safer Events." After a moment of silence honoring those lost in 2011, the discussion turns to several active ESA initiatives.

Guests:

Tami Richter, John Badcock, Jessie Sullivan, Bryan Huneycutt, Doug Bruce, Danielle Hernandez

Show Notes:

Event Safety Alliance | https://www.eventsafetyalliance.org

USITT | https://www.usitt.org

To mark the 15th anniversary of the Indiana State Fair stage collapse that killed seven people and injured 58 others, Danielle shares Part One of an ESA presentation commemorating the event, and how it inspired us to change to safety at live events, work that continues to this day.

The panel, led by ESA founder and immediate past president Jim Digby, traces ESA's founding: the conference calls that grew from a handful of concerned industry professionals to dozens, the Event Safety Guide, and an early meeting with Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels that persuaded state officials to let the industry self-regulate. Topics also cover the 13 ANSI standards now available free through ESTA's Technical Standards Program, the insurance sector's role in rewriting weather cancellation policies to address wind and lightning rather than rain accumulation, and evidence of safety culture taking hold on show sites worldwide. 

Guests:

Jim Digby, Don Cooper, Scott Carroll, Sue McGuirl, Jacob Worek

Show Notes:

Event Safety Alliance

ESTA Technical Standards Program

Danielle reconvenes the 2nd annual current events roundtable, joined by event safety friends, Jacob Worek, John Badcock, and Doug Bruce to review the incidents, trends, and conversations that shaped the first half of 2026 for live events.

Weather was a major theme, also, the FIFA 2026 World Cup, audience behavior and safety messaging, technology and surveillance at events, nightclub fires and more.   Lots of lessons learned, as well as considerations of pathways forward for these challenges.

Show Notes:

ASTM F38 Drone Shows Committee

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

Guests:

Jacob Worek | SMP

John Badcock | Event Operations & Safety Director, SXSW

Doug Bruce | Creative Safety

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

What separates safety training from safety culture? Danielle and co-host Anna Glover sit down with Jen Ruggerio, founder of Rugged Training Group and author of Uncorporate Leadership, to dig into that question.

Safety training without leadership support is box-checking.  The conversation examines common leadership models that do not translate to environments where the stakes are lives rather than quarterly numbers.

This episode builds a case for shared leadership as an alternative to top-down hierarchy, positioning safety accountability as something every crew member holds rather than something that flows from a title. Practical threads include heat illness in new workers, how to speak up when you are day labor, why imposter syndrome is evidence of growth, and how the fresh eyes of a first-week worker are an asset most companies fail to use.

Guests:

Jen Ruggerio | Founder, Rugged Training Group  Jen Ruggerio | LinkedIn

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)      

Anna Glover (co-host)

Show Notes:

Uncorporate Leadership (Amazon)

Rugged Training Group

Contact Danielle: podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

It is fireworks season! Danielle sits down with Ryan Abel, a fireworks and FX designer and pyrotechnic specialist. This in-depth chat covers pyro from design to operations, including budget, AHJs, permits and safety protocols.

Site selection, weather, and show-stop criteria each get real-world treatment, including stopping a show mid-performance when winds spiked unexpectedly.  The discussion goes into the reputational stakes when incidents go viral, performer and audience clearances in entertainment pyro settings, the role of spotters, and the early-stage challenges of combining drone shows with fireworks.

Guests:

Ryan Abel | Fireworks and FX Designer, Pyrotechnic Specialist

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

Show Notes:

NFPA 1123 (outdoor displays) | https://www.nfpa.org

NFPA 1126 (proximate pyrotechnics) | https://www.nfpa.org

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

Pink Bows Foundation grew out of tragedy. After ten people, including Madison Dubiski, lost their lives at Astroworld in 2021, her family channeled an outpouring of community grief into an organization committed to making live events safer for everyone. The foundation's work runs on three pillars: a philanthropy program honoring Madison's commitment to community service, a Showstop procedure course that has trained over 700 event professionals worldwide, and the Safe Space itself.  

Danielle and co-host Tami Richter sit down with Ashleigh LaBure and Kyrah Lowe from Pink Bows to talk about their Safe Space initiative and how it is finding its way to large events across Texas and beyond. The bright pink tent structure has become a recognizable beacon at festivals — a cool-down spot, a safe refuge, a rally point for separated groups, and a welcoming environment for attendees managing anxiety, overstimulation, or heat. 

Events interested in hosting Safe Space can connect through the Pink Bows website.

Guests:

Ashleigh LaBure, Senior VP of Operations Pink Bows Foundation

Kyrah Lowe | Volunteer & Community Outreach Coordinator, Pink Bows Foundation

Show Notes:

Pink Bows Foundation info@pinkbowsfoundation.org

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host) & Tami Richter (co-host)

Danielle Hernandez is joined by guest co-host Fr. David Garretson along with guests Bill Conner and Dan Culhane for an in-depth discussion of the present, past and future of fire safety curtains and their place in both venues and codes.  

For over a century, theaters have been required to provide either a fire curtain, a deluge system, or mechanical exhaust at the proscenium to separate the stage from the auditorium in the event of a fire. The forthcoming International Building Code (2027) will eliminate the longstanding requirement for proscenium opening protection in new theater construction.  Bill Conner, who worked this significant change through both IBC and parallel NFPA language, has found no evidence anywhere, including the UK and Europe, that fire curtains have ever saved a human life. 

Note: This change applies to new construction only. Removing an existing fire curtain from an older theater would require buy-in from the local authority having jurisdiction, the insurer, and the fire marshal. NFPA is moving in the same direction, though without IBC's requirement to separate the stage and auditorium from the rest of the building.

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

Fr. David Garretson (guest co-host)

Guests:

Bill Conner, FASTC, ETCP Certified (retired) Rigger - Theatre. Bill, a professional theatre consultant since 1982, provides facility planning and systems design for the performing arts. Among over 150 projects, notable projects include the Alley Theatre, the West Side Showroom, Cincinnati’s SCPA, Edgewood College’s The Stream, Willow Creek Church, Detroit Orchestra Hall, McFarland High School, and the Holden-Brownstone Performing Arts Center. Bill is the ASTC codes officer since 1987 and participates in the development of the national model codes as the senior member of the Assembly Occupancies committee for the NFPA Life Safety Code, serving since 1988, and participant in the ICC Code Development Process for many years. He is a member of the ICC A117.1 and ICC 300 committees. You can reach Bill at 708-983-5792 or bill@bcaworld.com

Dan Culhane | Co-Chair, Stage Machinery Working Group and Technical Standards Council, ESTA

Show Notes:

ESTA Standards (free downloads)

ANSI E1.22

Deadliest single building or complex fires and explosions in the U.S.

Iroquois Theatre fire

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

Co-host Anna Glover joins Danielle Hernandez to explore a topic that sits at the heart of everything we do in live events: how do you make good decisions when you can't know the outcome?

Their guest, Ben Cattaneo, is a risk and resilience professional, host of the Decision-Making Studio podcast, and co-author of "Decision Making in the Polycrisis Era". Ben opens by drawing a clear line between risk (where we can estimate probability) and uncertainty (where we genuinely can't) and argues that leaning into uncertainty as a frame produces better thinking than treating every scenario as a quantifiable risk. Risk matrices can create a false sense of security.  

Using a FOCUS framework to help guide decision making, the discussion explores the process and tools available to make a decision, including knowing how impactful the result may be to live with, i.e., a hat (fully reversible), a haircut (you'll live with it for a while), or a tattoo (irreversible).

What happens when the moment arrives and people get cold feet about the decision they already agreed to make? The answer, Ben says: document the how and the why before the pressure hits, so you can defend a difficult decision without having to reconstruct your reasoning under stress.

The episode closes with Anna and Ben connecting all of it back to live events as an environment for building decision-making capability. Every show is a new data point, every load-in a chance to practice.

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

Anna Glover (co-host)

Guests:

Ben Cattaneo | Risk and Resilience Practice, PwC; Host, Decision Making Studio Podcast

Show Notes:

Decision Making Studio Podcast | https://thedecisionmaking.studio

Decision Making in the Polycrisis Era (book) | Available on major book retailers

FOCUS Decision-making Primer | https://thedecisionmaking.studio/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/FOCUS.pdf

ESA Safer Events Series - Weather | https://eventsafetyalliance.org/safer-events-series

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

Episode 116: Survey Says... Weather with DTN!

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Weather is the leading disruptor of live events, and the industry's relationship with weather intelligence has matured significantly over the past decade. Danielle Hernandez and co-host Tami Richter sit down with Renny Vandewege, General Manager of Weather Intelligence at DTN, to dig into the results of a major industry survey DTN conducted on how event organizers are making weather-related decisions.

Renny walks through DTN's approach, explaining how they've evolved from pure forecasting into what they call an operational decisioning platform. The conversation covers range rings, event-specific trigger thresholds, high-precision lightning and radar data, wet bulb globe temperature for heat safety, and the critical value of having a meteorologist in the loop. A static range ring only triggers after a lightning strike has occurred. A meteorologist can warn you before the first strike happens.

The survey findings are illuminating. Most event weather decisions are made within 48 hours of the event, often in the moment, and decision makers frequently struggle to translate forecast data into action alone.   

The industry has come a long way, but that the work is not finished and DTN's survey helps show the way forward.

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)   Tami Richter (co-host)

Guest:

Renny Vandewege | General Manager of Weather Intelligence, DTN 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/renny-vandewege-8b0aa735/

Show Notes:

DTN Outdoor Safety | https://www.dtn.com

https://www.dtn.com/weather-risks-in-event-operations/

https://training.fema.gov/nims/

ESA Safer Events Series - Weather | https://eventsafetyalliance.org/safer-events-series

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

Episode 115: The Training Pod

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Phil van Hest and Sean Fox of Rock Force join Danielle and Bryan to tackle a question that many organizations eventually face: where do you start when you're building a crew training program from scratch?

Using a hypothetical production company as a framework, the conversation works through the foundational decisions every training program requires, beginning with logistics and goals and moving quickly into substance. Phil walks through fall protection as a practical example for any crew working at height, explaining the four tiers of the fall pro world, why ANSI standards often offer clearer guidance for entertainment than OSHA in most live event crew training situations, and how PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) should be baked into any program from day one as a living document. The discussion covers training records and certification tracking, lead-to-crew ratios, minimum standards for non-rigging crew, PPE orientation, duty of care, and the hierarchy of controls as a practical framework for teaching people what they are not authorized to do.

Co-host Brian Huneycutt steps in and his question about psychological safety brings the conversation into focus. Phil and Sean make the case that safety culture is the real curriculum underneath all the technical content. Leads need to know their crew by name. New people need permission to say they don't know something. Safety officers need to understand both where their authority starts and where it ends. And every person on a job site needs to understand that in an industry as small and visible as live entertainment, unsafe behavior has ripple effects far beyond the one load-in where it happens.

For anyone starting from zero, Phil's bottom line is clear: PPE training is part of compliance and gets safety onto people's bodies and into their behavior from the start. Pair that with an explicit safety culture message on day one, and you're already ahead of where most companies begin.

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

Brian Huneycutt (co-host)

Guests:

Phil van Hest | Senior Director of National Safety, Rock Force

Sean Fox | Rock Force

https://www.rockforce.com/services#safety-heading

Show Notes:

ANSI Z359.1 & Z359.2 (Fall Protection Standards) | https://webstore.ansi.org

ANSI Z490 (Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety, Health and Environmental Training) | https://webstore.ansi.org

https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/index.html

PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) | Search online for PDCA infographic

https://eventsafetyalliance.org/safer-events-series    Weather Preparedness

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

Episode 114: ESA 114 - GCMA's The Service Playbook

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What does it take to turn a safety plan into a positive experience for your attendees? Danielle Hernandez sits down with Thyr Rodrigues, a spectator services veteran whose career spans the FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014, the Rio 2016 Olympics, the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, and UEFA's Euro 2020 and 2024, to explore The Service Playbook, a new resource from the Global Crowd Management Association (GCMA).

Thyr defines "service" as the intentional, proactive, and engaging use of human and physical resources at the frontline of contact with your audience. It's the bridge between your safety and security plan and the people who need to follow it. The conversation walks through the Playbook's first six chapters, covering headcount planning and service roles (spectator marshals, ushers, pre-information marshals), equipment like umpire chairs and foam hands, operations plans, deployment cards, and the pocket guides that give frontline staff the tools to answer questions on the spot. The discussion also digs into decision points, RAMP analysis, and how service teams function as the eyes and ears of the command room, knowing not just how to help, but who to tell when something goes wrong.

Thyr's framework was built on major sporting events, but as Danielle notes, it's easily scalable and transferable to events of any size and type. With chapters on training and event day preparation still to come, The Service Playbook is well worth a look for anyone thinking about how to set their crowd up for success from the very beginning.

Guests:

Thyr Rodrigues https://www.linkedin.com/in/thyrrodrigues/

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

Show Notes:

Global Crowd Management Association (GCMA) | https://thegcma.com/

The Service Playbook | Available at GCMA website, with supporting templates available for GCMA members

Contact Danielle | podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org

It's March Madness!  In this episode, hosts Danielle Hernandez and John Badcock explore the logistical and operational complexities of hosting the annual NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments. They are joined by Joey Doster (Lenovo Center, NC) and Becca Wilusz (Duke University) to discuss the bidding process, rapid scheduling, security perimeters, broadcast constraints and the challenges of managing massive crews.   These highly anticipated and widely viewed events are complicated and complex, with details from towels to hostile vehicle mitigation and our guests are well versed in the nuances of the "dance".

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

John Badcock (co-host)

Guests:

Joey Doster | Director of Security and Guest Experience, Lenovo Center

Becca Wilusz | Assistant Director of Athletics for Game Operations, Duke University

Show Notes:   Watch March Madness Live on NCAA | NCAA.com

Host Selection & Bidding for Men's and Women's tournaments

Logistical Complexity of arena "Session" flips and rapid turnarounds

Coordinating travel and hospitality for teams, bands, and broadcast crews

Security & Public Safety collaboration with law enforcement

Managing the "Zone X" perimeter outside the venue

The Human Element, staff resilience, and accommodating live mascots

Media & Broadcast coordination and schedule management

In this episode, Danielle and Doug Bruce speak with UK events operations consultant Miriam Stone about Major Incident Planning for event operations. The conversation explores the critical differences between standard operational incidents and major incidents that require a multi-agency response. Key topics include emergency reporting, crowd management, the importance of continuous training and tabletop exercises, and empowering frontline staff to identify and report suspicious behavior. The episode also covers real-world event safety lessons and practical actions, including response strategies learned from the Manchester Arena bombing.

Hosts

Danielle Hernandez | LinkedIn

Doug Bruce, CSSP, CSP, MA | LinkedIn

Guest

Miriam Stone | LinkedIn

Links & Resources

JESIP: https://www.jesip.org.uk/

M/ETHANE Reporting Model: https://www.jesip.org.uk/joint-doctrine/m-ethane/

FEMA National Incident Management System (NIMS) Training: https://training.fema.gov/nims/

Left of Bang: https://www.amazon.com/Left-Bang-Marine-Combat-Program/dp/1936891301

The Purple Guide: https://www.thepurpleguide.co.uk/

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, hosts Danielle Hernandez and Jim Digby explore the complex and visually stunning world of laser technology in live entertainment. They are joined by Roberta McHatton (Laser Safety Services) and Harry Boyde (ER Productions), who provide expert insights into the physics of lasers, the evolution of safety standards since the 1980s, and the rigorous protocols required for both indoor and outdoor productions. From managing FAA notifications for outdoor shows to the technical precision of "audience scanning," this discussion highlights how safety acts as an essential enabler for creative innovation in modern show design.

International Laser Display Association

Laser Control Hardware

Roberta McHatton | LinkedIn

Harry Boyde | LinkedIn

Jim Digby, PMP®️ | LinkedIn

Danielle Hernandez | LinkedIn

[00:00] Introduction: Danielle shares a local connection to the co-inventor of the laser, Charles Townes.

[02:10] Meet the Experts: Introductions for Roberta McHatton and award-winning laser designer Harry Boyde.

[06:45] Laser Physics 101: A breakdown of the acronym and how photons are concentrated into hazardous beams.

[12:30] Evolution of Safety: Comparing 1983 "nightclub" setups to modern 120-watt high-powered systems.

[16:00] Termination Points: The importance of knowing where a beam ends to prevent equipment damage.

[21:15] Outdoor Regulations: The role of the FAA, the 30-day notification rule, and using tools like FlightRadar24.

[28:30] Audience Scanning: The science of using specialized lenses to make lasers safe for direct crowd exposure.

[33:45] Emergency Protocols: The "Stop, Stop, Stop" rule and the critical role of the laser operator during a live performance.

[37:10] Training and Resources: Where to find professional certification through ILDA or specialized classes.

[46:40] Closing Segment: The team wraps up with final advice for the NEXT generation of production professionals.

Danielle and guest co-host Anita Hartsock are joined by Richard Cadena to discuss the dangers of electrical shock on stages.  We explore exactly how stray current can travel through gear and people and why proper grounding is absolutely crucial.  Also, there is discussion about some real incidents that illustrate the point and prove why a non-contact voltage sniffer should be a part of your tool kit. Join this electrifying conversation and learn about Richard's new book on entertainment electrical safety, his Substack and other electrical resources.  Let's work together to keep all our training current and everyone safe.

Resources:

• Richard's website, Richard Cadena
• TSP ANSI 1.17
• Richard Cadena | LinkedIn
• Anita Hartsock | LinkedIn

Hey friends! We’re getting a little bit "in the weeds" today, and behind the scenes at The Event Safety Alliance.  ESA is going through an exciting transition, and we are so delighted to be joined by our new leadership team to talk about what’s next for our Life Safety First mission.

www.publichealtheverything.com

🎙️ You Guys! We Talked ETCP Certifications!

If you’ve ever wondered how to determine who in this business really knows their discipline, especially in an industry without formal training requirements, this is the episode for you.

We had Christina Smith from ESTA and Bill Sapsis of Sapsis Rigging and the ETCP Council join the Event Safety Podcast to break down the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP). This program is designed to certify the skills of the top third of our industry professionals in 4 different areas of expertise.  It’s not just a test. The certification is based heavily on vetting hands-on work history, not just technical knowledge.  We cover the four certifications: Arena Rigger, Theatre Rigger, Entertainment Electrician, and Portable Power Distribution Technician.  Happy holidays and remember, don't hold the fireworks!

https://etcp.esta.org/

This time around, John Badcock joins Danielle for a conversation on inspiration, motivation and the value of the event safety community.

October is definitely spooky season.  In celebration of haunts, scares and horror experiences, hosts Danielle & Bryan talk to Kim Scott, General Manager of the recently launched Universal Horror Unleashed.   The conversation ranges from jump scares to regulations and how to mentor the up-and-coming planners as they create new attractions in this genre.   Also, boo holes.  Happy haunting!!    

Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas. Four Haunted Houses

In this episode Danielle and guest co-host Boxer Hardison had a conversation with Jeff Reder of Clark Reder Engineering Inc., focused on discussing structural engineering for the entertainment industry, sharing insights about their work on concert stages, theater sets, and temporary structures for events like Coachella. The discussion covered engineering processes, challenges with weather and safety plans, and the evolution of design tools from traditional methods to modern 3D modeling software. Also addressed were industry trends, including the increasing use of engineering reviews for events and the implementation of new safety standards in the 2024 IBC, while concluding with advice for young professionals entering the field.

https://www.clarkreder.com/

https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php

https://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IBC2024V1.0

This week Danielle and guest co-host Janet Sellery talk with special guest, Betty Siegel, about accessibility in live events. They explore service animals, communication accommodations, and assistive technologies.  The conversation includes various accessibility considerations including sensory-friendly performances, mobility accommodations, and the importance of involving people with disabilities in the planning processes.  The conversation reflects on the need for empathy and knowledgeable staff in creating inclusive event spaces, while highlighting the ongoing evolution of accessibility technologies and practices.

• 01:45 Kennedy Center article
• 02:15 Zero Project
• 04:00 Dogs & Horses
• 13:06 Neural Divergence / Relaxed Performances
• 18:24 Visual Impairment / Low Vision
•      More service animal talk
• 25:03 American Sign Language
• 26:44 Tactile interpreter
• 34:00 Hearing Assistance
• 43:66 Mobility
• 57:43 Closing Credits
• 58:13 Post Credit question

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, host Danielle is joined by ESA friends Jacob Worek and John Badcock for a round table discussion of what all has occurred so far this year in the event industry. From incidents, accidents, and near misses, to weather (so much weather), as well as tools and guidance, the first half of 2025 has been full of lessons for event professionals to consider when planning and executing performances and mass gatherings. See show notes for related links to incidents and resources.

1:03 Belgium's Tomorrowland Saved by Metallica After Fire Destroys Main Stage

11:00 8 children taken to hospitals after seizure-like symptoms at Harvard Square church concert

14:20 Vehicle ramming

• Los Angeles: Man charged after car ploughs into crowd, injuring 30 - BBC News
• Police: Liverpool parade car collision incident not terrorism - ESPN
• 11 people killed, more than 20 hurt after SUV rams into Vancouver street festival | CBC News

22:18 Weather cancellation

• https://variety.com/2025/music/news/steve-miller-band-cancels-all-tour-dates-due-to-weather-disasters-1236463342/
• Over 100 people fall ill at New Jersey graduations in 'mass casualty' incident due to extreme heat
• Home of Zelus - Official site of Zelus Environmental System

32:50 Docket 266: Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments | NIOSH | CDC

35:00 Stay hydrated: It’s going to be a long, hot July for much of U.S. | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

36:30 Anna Lapwood | Official Website

41:31 Young person electrocuted at St George's Day fete in Sussex | The Argus

43:53 Structures & Rigging

• Katy Perry nearly falls as prop malfunctions mid-air over crowd | Culture | Independent TV
• Beyoncé's car malfunctions while suspended in air during concert in Houston - ABC7 Los Angeles

49:05 Words Matter - The Language of Crowds — Global Crowd Management Alliance

50:08 Standards and Guidance — Life Safety First : Event Safety Alliance

• ANSI ES1.6 Event Safety - Communications
• [ANSI ES1.42-2025 Parade Safety] (https://eventsafetyalliance.org/s/ANSI-ES142-2025-Parade-Safety.pdf

51:00 [NIOSH Faces Major Layoffs Amid HHS Restructuring, Slashing Two-Thirds of Workforce -- Occupational Health & Safety]https://ohsonline.com/Articles/2025/04/01/NIOSH.aspx)

57:30 Credits & 2025 Event Safety Summit: Solidarity in Safety — Life Safety First : Event Safety Alliance

57:52 Shakira postpones San Antonio, Houston shows

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and guest host Bryan Huneycutt have an in-depth discussion about life on the road with Ryan George of thistourlife.com. Topics included everything from a new retirement benefit program to challenges for physical, mental and financial health on tour as well as advocacy within the touring community.

• ThisTourLife.com
• Amber.health
• tourhealth.org
• ctcbenefits.org

What does it take to build a worldwide tour From Zero? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle poses this question to long-time Linkin Park Tour Director (and ESA President) Jim Digby. They discuss how Linkin Park and their team kept the band's re-launch a secret from their notoriously dedicated fanbase, the production considerations involved in their first tour in eight years, the importance of building the right team, positive safety changes in international touring markets, and more.

In celebration of our 100th episode, we're sharing safety success stories from across the ESA community! From the creation of new standards and training programs to improved planning and collaboration, Danielle and guest co-host Tami Richter celebrate your wins and recognize our industry’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety for all.

A sincere thank you to our guests and listeners for supporting the Event Safety Podcast. Here's to the next 100!

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and special guest host Dave Ellis dive into the world of event security with Dan Donovan, founder and Managing Partner of security solutions providers Stratoscope & Ingressotek. Discussion includes what goes into planning for event security, common misconceptions people have about the role, workforce development, technology, engaging with public safety, and loads more.

Notes:

ANSI ES1.40 - Event Security

What does it take to create a comprehensive safety education program for event professionals? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle discusses the recently launched UC San Diego Event Safety Certificate Program with several of its creators—Ken Keberle (611 Resource Group), Stephanie Spann (UCSD), Stephanie MacGilfrey (UCSD), and Jacob Worek (ESA). Topics include the program’s goals, the subjects covered, who’s involved in its creation and delivery, and why it’s NOT an OSHA program.

Notes:

Event Safety | UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies

There are many similarities between planning for event operations and emergency management. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast Danielle and special guest host Doug Bruce (Creative Safety) explore these crossover points with two highly experienced, event-focused emergency managers we met at the Event Safety Alliance Canada Conference, Sherry Beard and Simon Hunt. They discuss a wide range of issues including planning, scalability, relationship building, leadership adaptability, and the importance of establishing trust. Enjoy!

In this holiday season "mini-episode" of the Event Safety Podcast, we share a few of the many stories told at our first "Safety Slam", held during this year's Event Safety Summit. Listen in for some AI-generated slam poetry, communication snafus, and tales of questionable "blue" drinking water. We hope you enjoy it and look forward to seeing you all again in the new year. Stay safe!

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle recaps this year's excellent ESA Canada Conference with two members of the organization's leadership team, Janet Sellery and Kevin Tanner. They reflect on the highlights and key takeaways from this year's program, discuss balancing content and networking, and share what to expect at future editions.

Notes:

Event Safety Alliance Canada

And...action! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we take a slight detour from the live events world to discuss safety in the film industry. Joining Danielle are two highly experienced film pros, Matt Sanders and Fess Shelton. They discuss the similarities and differences between safety in film and live events, the safety planning process, threats and mitigation strategies, roles and responsibilities, and the ongoing work of the "Safety for Sarah" campaign. 

Notes:

Safety for Sarah

Fall has arrived, which means the Event Safety Summit is right around the corner! In anticipation of this year's event, this episode of The Event Safety Podcast looks back at a few of the many presentations we've featured at the summit over the last ten years (!), including insights from Nathan Vassberg (NASA), Kevin Kloesel (University of Oklahoma), Eric Stuart (Gentian Events), and Betty Siegel (Kennedy Center). Sate your safety hunger with a taste of what's to come, and be sure to register for this year's event at http://eventsafetysummit.com.

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and special guest co-host Kevin Kloesel welcome DTN Solution Engineer and Meteorologist Brad Nelson for a discussion about, as you guessed, weather, with a focus on extreme heat. They explore how heat has become the leading risk to live events, the lasting impacts of heat illness, Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, OSHA's proposed heat rule, and why consulting a professional meteorologist is more important than ever.

Links: 

DTN

OSHA's Proposed Heat Rule

ANSI ES1.7-2001 Event Safety - Weather Preparedness

Virtual Weather Planning Workshop

Have you ever looked at a certificate of insurance and felt confused or overwhelmed by the details? Do you really know what that information means and how it protects you (or, worse, leaves you unprotected)?

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Hub International Vice President of Marketing Sue McGuirl joins Danielle and special guest co-host John Badcock for an in-depth look at insurance certificates. Discussion includes the purpose of a COI, how to interpret its contents, red flags to look out for, special considerations, and more.

Notes:

Certificate of Insurance Samples (ZIP File)
 

Independence Day is fast approaching, which means it's the perfect time to talk about pyro! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle Hernandez and special guest co-host Siobhan Colleen sit down with Pyrotek Special Effects Product and Technical Support and Safety Manager Brian Panther for a conversation about pyrotechnics safety. Discussion topics include planning, permitting, standards, transportation, restrictions, and much, much more.

Notes:

Effects of Recoil Forces from Large-Scale Pyrotechnics on Entertainment Structures (Protocol, Fall 2020)  

NFPA 1123 - Code for Fireworks Display

NFPA 1126 - Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience

NFPA 160 - Standard for the Use of Flame Effects Before an Audience

It's that time of year again...commencement season! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle is joined by Becca Wilusz (Duke University) and Joey Doster (PNC Arena) for a look at what goes into planning university and high school commencement ceremonies. Discussion includes unique demographic challenges, transportation planning, policy enforcement, communications, show-stop procedures, and preparing for high-profile (and sometimes controversial) speakers.  

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle welcomes a trio of crowd management experts from the United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA) for a conversation about crowd safety in smaller venues - Anne Marie Chebib (Select Security & Stewarding Ltd), Eric Stuart (Gentian Events Ltd), and Tom Devine (TMS Protection). Discussion includes the development and philosophy behind the UKCMA’s new “Safer Crowds, Safer Venues” document, why “service' is the primary function in crowd management, planning tools and considerations, and more. 

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle welcomes back ESA board member Bryan Huneycutt for a recap of this year's USITT Conference in Seattle. They discuss key takeaways from this year's event, presentation highlights, current safety & health commission initiatives, and more. 

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve are joined by ESA board member Bryan Huneycutt for a discussion of key insights from Steve's recent participation at SERMAnar in Colorado Springs, which focused on processes related to active assailant events. We delve into his experience with a fresh approach to active shooter training, the limitations of the run/hide/fight strategy in event scenarios, the distinction between planned and unplanned attacks, and the importance of prioritizing evacuation planning in every active shooter response plan.

Note: This episode contains discussion of violence and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Staging intimacy on stage and screen requires a delicate balance between artistic vision and actor well-being. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve sit down with Laura Rikard, CEO of Theatrical Intimacy Education, a consulting group specializing in researching, developing, and teaching best practices for staging theatrical intimacy. They discuss what an intimacy coordinator/choreographer does, the profession's origins, its five guiding principles, the issue with the term "safe space," managing boundary issues, and more.

This episode contains adult themes and may not be suitable for younger listeners. 

Links:

Laura Rikard Bio
Theatrical Intimacy Education
Staging Sex: Best Practices, Tools, and Techniques for Theatrical Intimacy

"Don't write a Kobayashi Maru"

In the latest episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome back the amazing Emma Parkinson for a deep dive into the topic of tabletop exercises. We look at what they are (and aren't), who should be included, how to develop one for your organization, common traps that undermine their effectiveness, and so much more. If you know Emma, you KNOW you're in for an experience, so grab those notepads and get listening.

This episode is brought to you by PRG. Thank you for your continued support of ESA!

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we shift from the tennis court to the basketball court, with a look at the issue of "court storming" featuring Duke University Assistant Director of Athletics/Game Operations (and friend of the Pod) Becca Wilusz! We discuss what motivates attendees to take such actions, whether they are reasonably foreseeable, the impact of social media, how to plan for the possibility, and so much more. There's a takeaway for events of all types, so sports fan or not you'll want to give this one a listen. 

It's so much more than tennis! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve head down under (virtually) for a chat with Lee Ross and Martin Luders, part of the highly skilled safety and compliance team for the Australian Open. Discussion includes what goes into producing an event of this scale, weather planning, compliance, and how they prepared to manage this year's record-breaking attendance. 

It may be cold outside, but the latest edition of The Event Safety Podcast is RED HOT. In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Kevin Kloesel for an update on what's happening in the event weather space. Discussion includes how planning for one risk can introduce new ones, the importance of deeply understanding your venue, emergency messaging, new lightning guidance, and boatloads (or should we say snow shovels full) more.

Link:

National Center for Spectator Sports Safety & Security (NCS4)

Grab your shovel! Bills mafia digs in with snow removal before high stakes Buffalo-K.C. playoff game (NBC News)

ANSI ES1.7 - 2021, Event Safety Requirements - Weather Preparedness

With the new year just days away, we're looking back at some of the most important, impactful, or undercovered stories of 2023. From guest issues to climate impacts, it's been an eventful 12 months in the safety world, so grab another cup of cocoa, put your feet up, and join Danielle and Steve as they close out the year.

From all of us at The Event Safety Podcast, have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. We'll see you in 2024!

Link:

ANSI ES1.40 – 2023 Event Safety - Event Security

What did YOU think of the 2023 Event Safety Summit? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we recap some highlights of this year's Summit with two attendees, Francesca Ghizzoni (Production Manager, SXSW) and Emily Jeu (Director of Production, Columbus Association for the Performing Arts). They share their views on what drove them to attend the Summit, why they believe it's important for event professionals to take part, what they found most compelling, and what they'd like to see at future events.

LINKS:

ANSI ES1.40 - 2023, Event Safety - Event Security

It's a Powerpalooza! In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we get deep and nerdy on the subject of sustainable power in event applications with the team at Overdrive Energy Solutions. We discuss the safety benefits and challenges of portable battery technology, integrating it into your site plans, and their experience powering the guest package of a major artist at this year's Lollapalooza.

This episode is brought to you by Event Safety Alliance Canada

Overdrive Energy Solutions
Reverb
Billie Eilish, REVERB Partner Up To Deliver Solar-Powered Lollapalooza Set

What do you get when you mix a giant hill, thousands of students, and the last day of classes? A fantastic case study for The Event Safety Podcast! In this episode, Danielle and Steve are joined by Joseph Scaffido, Director of University Events at Cornell, for a look at the University's annual Slope Day event. From weather to crowds to infrastructure challenges, there's a lot to learn from this nearly 120-year-old gathering.

Slope Day (Cornell University)