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Geezers of Gear#286 - Marcel Fairbairn
Marcel spent more than 30 years in the event industry and founded gear source in 2002 with a single goal to make it safer and easier for businesses to buy and sell gear globally Since its founding gear sources moved a quarter of a billion dollars.
Today Marcel along with his global team are focused on ramping up growth. Marcel says, I love this industry and I'm focused on growing gear source to help even more people while democratizing access to gear for your markets and markets for your gear, he has this crazy disease that he keeps...2025-01-012h 01Geezers of Gear#283 - LDI Review with Marcel and SarahJoin us to remember the 2024 LDI show, our highlights from the show, some cool products and a few stories. Plus, a bit about the inaugural Dining With Dinosaurs event as well. This episode is brought to you by Elation and MainLight. 2024-12-131h 14
Backstage Cowboys PodcastMARCEL FAIRBAIRN - BACKSTAGE COWBOYS PODCASTMarcel Fairbairn had me on the Geezers of Gear podcast a few weeks ago and I really wanted to get more out of him so I asked him if he would like to be featured on the Backstage Cowboys Podcast and he accepted.
Marcel also happens to be the founder and owner of Gear Source. THE online platform for selling and buying used professional AV gear worldwide. I have used it myself and I can tell you there's nothing else like it out there.
https://www.geezersofgear.com/
https://gearsource.com/2024-07-301h 16Geezers of Gear#219 - Jamie Mardis - CEO of Koffee Kult and former roadie / live events business ownerJamie cut his teeth in the automated lighting field, first as a touring lighting tech and programmer, later working directly for a couple of lighting manufacturers. He took a run on cruiseships, and finally decided he wanted to operate his own business. Jamie's business' including lighting, staging and generators but a new hobby and new passion, coffee, eventually became his business. Today, Koffee Kult is a growing brand and its loyal drinkers include our host, Marcel, who drinks our own Geezers Grind every day! This episode is brought to you by and .2024-01-241h 39Geezers of Gear#210 - Martin Thomas - LD, Production Manager and owner of Relentless Entertainment DesignMartin is one of those guys, you find him pretty easy to like, and super easy to talk to. This was a very enjoyable podcast to record, and hopefully, a pretty great listen as well! This episode is brought to you by and .2023-12-132h 24Geezers of Gear#209 - Welcome "The Producer" - Sarah Birnie joins Geezers Of GearGeezers Of Gear is growing, and super excited to be adding a new team member in the role of Producer. And not just any old producer, but the one and only Sarah "Just Birnie" Birnie. With a history in both Formula One and Concert Touring, Sarah recently started her own social media influencer business from an island in Greece. Now, she's helping to share our guest's stories to the world as we grow Geezers Of Gear. This episode is brought to you by and .2023-11-2955 minGeezers of Gear#208 - Michael SpringerMichael is an Entertainment Specialist, Stage Manager, Stage Crew Member, Production Stage Manager, Production Manager, former Tour Manager and so much more. He has one of the most interesting backgrounds and stories we've heard! Be sure to check it out. Thank you to our sponsors, and .2023-11-221h 22Geezers of Gear#207 - Bob Dickinson, the OG of televised event lightingBob Dickinson is a television lighting designer. His career, spanning decades, has focussed on awards shows, music shows, game shows, talk shows, and special events, which make up his over 1500 on screen television credits. He's lit the Academy Awards for as long as I can remember, was the very first person to use moving lights on Television (Solid Gold in 1982 he says), and has created so many memorable Olympics openings and closings, Super Bowl halftime shows and much more. Brought to you by , with it's new Version 4 about to launch and Coffee which benefits folks who need it most in o...2023-11-052h 07Geezers of Gear#206 - Bob Harmon from Eggshell LightingOne of the hands down NICEST guys in the industry. You know you've made a mark in this industry when Bob approaches you at a tradeshow and hands you a bag of Hawaiian coffee. I am proud to say, I have been gifted numerous bags of coffee from Bob! He talks about the industry today, but also some great stories from the past, including how Eggshell Lighting got it's name! This episode is brought to you by and .2023-11-031h 31Geezers of Gear#205 - David Packouz - an International Arms Dealer depicted in War Dogs creates a sound brandNot many young men will lead a life of an international arms trader, have a hit movie made about them (War Dogs), close deals for as much as $300 million, then go on to start a successful audio brand, . David is an interesting guy and shares his story with us on Episode 205, brought to you by and .2023-10-251h 45Geezers of Gear#204 - Lighting Designer Lee RoseFor over 50 years, Lee Rose has been designing lighting for television, film, music and theater. He began in theater in the late 60s, did his first rock and roll shows in the 70s, including Boston's first real tours, when he met his future business partner, Richard Ocean. He and Richard formed Ocean Rose & Associates in 1984 and ran that quite successfully until 1998, when Lee joined Design Partners. Lee went on to light a long list of successful TV shows, specials, music videos, movies and even, for the very first time, lit the Taj Mahal. This episode is brought to you by...2023-10-031h 25Geezers of Gear#203 - Luke Meek - Author, Production Manager & FOH EngineerLuke began touring as a FOH engineer in 2005 then later, a production manager as well. He began writing a blog for the live production industry in 2019 which you can find . He then wrote and self published a book for aspiring tour and production managers called . When he's not touring or writing, Luke is a private pilot. This episode is brought to you by and .2023-08-231h 18Geezers of Gear#202 - Howie Zales... from Camera Man to EntrepreneurHowie Zales is an Emmy Award winning Camera Operator who turned his passion for television broadcasting into several entrepreneurial endeavors including a crew and staffing company, an early live-streaming business and an educational business teaching people broadcast, camera operation and more. A great discussion on the technical side of camera operation, sports and virtual events. Brought to you by and .2023-08-221h 12Geezers of Gear#201 - "Red" Rod Gibson has had an amazing career in touring and now on the vendor sideIt's impossible to have survived the 80s, 90s and even into the 2000s in the Touring Lighting business, without coming through with some stories. A really fun discussion with Red spanning from the 80s to today. This episode is sponsored by , and of course .2023-07-261h 50Geezers of Gear#200 - Patrick Whalen checks in from Backstage Productions / Backstage AerialMy dear friend Patrick Whalen shares some (horror) stories from the road, updates on drones and so much more. I hope you enjoy our chat as much as I did! Brought to you by and2023-06-271h 25Geezers of Gear#199 - Steve Lieberman fresh off the heels of EDC VegasNot many LD's get to write their ticket. Doing things exactly as they want, staying in their lane. Steve has done that... and for a long time! And, he's a nice guy. Enjoy! Brought to you by and .2023-05-241h 24Geezers of Gear#198 - Marshall Bissett - founder of TMB (and so much more!)An awesome guy, and with a ton of great stories to tell as well. Marshall saw the Beatles in 1963, did early gigs with The Eagles, Pink Floyd, Elton John and so many more. He founded TMB in the 80s, and ran it successfully until his departure in 2014. Of course Colin Waters continues to succeed with TMB today. This episode is brought to you by and .2023-05-231h 54Geezers of Gear#197 - Han Henze discussed almost 50 years in the businessHan started his career like so many, a guitar player in a high school band until one day, someone actually said "you know, you're just not very good". That's all he needed, he decided to do lighting instead! Since that time, he's grown into a career that carried him from working as a lighting tech, programmer, director and LD. He's been employed, without a pause for the entire time! Han is just another one of those "great guys" who everyone loves. And... he races cars! This episode is brought to you by .2023-05-032h 06Geezers of Gear#196 - Erik Eastland - President of All Access StagingErik has been in the business more than 40 years, starting with Edgar Winter in the 70s, and more recently - the incredible Super Bowl Halftime show. He's a great guy with incredible stories, and although he had to cut this short for a birthday celebration, it was an enjoyable discussion. This episode was brought to you by our friends at .2023-04-2140 minGeezers of Gear#195 - Jim Marlowe... one of the godfathers of HD projectionJim was a very early proponent of Digital HD projection, he provided HD process images for the CBS series, “Hack” as well as having provided 3D HD projection for James Cameron’s “Expedition Bismarck” at the National Museum of Natural History. This episode was brought to you by .2023-04-1858 minGeezers of Gear#194 - Roland Greil on designing for Rammstein, The Stones, Adelle, Genesis and moreRoland began his "career" with a passion for audio at 8 years old, and in his teens made the move to lighting. Since that time, he has worked hard to establish himself as a premier designer and programmer of all things lighting, with a focus on video as well. He now collaborates with Woodroffe Bassett Design on Genesis, The Stones, Rammstein, Adelle, and much much more. His work ethic and general "nice guy" approach has made him a steady favorite for top production managers as well. This episode is brought to you by .2023-04-131h 28Geezers of Gear#193 - Jeremy Bridge from PK Sound talking Motorized Line ArraysInnovation is hard, it's expensive, and oftentimes it's thankless work. Jeremy named the company PK based on "Polar Kinetic" defined The radial directivity of a loudspeaker resulting from motion. It's not often you find a worldclass audio manufacturing in a mid-sized Canadian city like Calgary, but PK is genuinely world class. And Jeremy also has some incredible insight with regard to how he manages people. Check this one out for sure, brought to you by2023-03-301h 02Geezers of Gear#192 - Brad, Marcel and Rane Renshaw go FULL GEARHEAD and discuss the Moving Light March Madness too!Rane has become a lighting influencer through a lot of hard work, dedication to helping folks, and some great ideas like his Moving Light March Madness tournament run on his Limelight Wired This is a fun discussion that was originally a GearHeads livestream as well. This podcast is brought to you today by .2023-03-2247 minGeezers of Gear#191 - Omar Colom with AV EducateOmar holds over a dozen certification and train the trainer certification in various disciplines in AV and also a second generation video engineer who is passionate about helping others achieve their educational goals. He’s also a decorated combat veteran of the U.S Army and a pretty fun conversationalist! This episode is brought to you by .2023-03-141h 15Geezers of Gear#190 - Jeremy Fairbairn on a career in Motorsports with GearSourceSo many friends and listeners are constantly asking about Jeremy's status, what he's racing now, where, etc. So in a departure from our usual talks on gear, shows and road antics, I thought it was time to get him on Geezers Of Gear for a bit of a chat about motorsport. Brought to you by but with a LOT of love toward all of his racing sponsors including Ayrton, Lightswitch, Mainlight, Act Entertainment, Christie Lites and Winhallco.2023-03-1239 minGeezers of Gear#189 - Brian Dowd chatting through 46 years in this crazy but wonderful biz! (and lots of BBQ talk too!)Brian has a lot of "firsts" in his 46 years in this industry. He was the FIRST employee at Mainlight back in the early 80s for one! Brian is currently responsible for Designer Relations at but he's probably as well known for his legendary cooking mastery. Specifically, grilling incredible meats for many top industry functions. This June at 4 Wall, he will come out of a brief retirement to cook for an expected 800-1000 people. A very fun talk, bought to you by .2023-03-081h 44Geezers of Gear#188 - Eric Todd - 40 years at BML/Blackbird and an industry thought leaderEric started BML when he was still in school, and has grown it over a period of 40+ years. Today, between Blackbird and Generico, Eric continues to work very long hours, and is successful, although don't ask him to admit that! This episode is brought to you by and by Coffee from Koffee Kult.2023-03-071h 24Geezers of Gear#187 - Fausto Orsatti, truly one of our industry pioneers in product developmentFausto began his career creating amazing products for Coemar in the 1970's. Since that time, he not only helped develop the very first commercially available moving (mirror) light, but was issued many patents and awards along the way as well. Fausto has since created his own company where he solves problems for companies all over the world. He's truly one of the smartest, and kindest gentlemen you've ever met. This episode is brought to you by .2023-02-162h 13Geezers of Gear#186 - Mickey Williams / Gig LifeMickey grew up in the temporary crew business through his family, and just recently started his own company, Gig Life. He talks about a lot of the challenges and opportunities in the crew business currently. Hope you enjoy. Brought to you by .2023-02-1457 minGeezers of Gear#185 - Patrick DiersonPatrick is a lighting designer, programmer, director, production designer, and smart business man! Always a great time when we get together, and this won't disappoint! This episode is brought to you by .2023-02-082h 01Geezers of Gear#184 - AJ Pen talks about 25 years in the business and his new adventures growing PenlightAJ Penn has had a career spanning more than twenty-five years in Lighting, Set & Production Design and currently works with artists including Josh Groban and My Chemical Romance. Now, AJ is setting his mind to growing his business, Penlight, along with his partner / wife, Sol. This episode is brought to you by our newest sponsor, .2023-02-032h 07Geezers of Gear#183 - Bob Bonniol of ModeBob is a really interesting guy, who started in the late 80's running follow spots in a theater at night, while studying political science during the day. He eventually decided to pursue a career in lighting, then video and lighting, then so much more. Bob has been on the leading edge of technologies throughout his career, and is an expert on the growth of VR, AR and even AI in our industry. A very fun discussion indeed, brought to you by our friends at .2023-02-011h 53Geezers of Gear#182 - Chris Lose on a career built on kindness and saying YES!Chris Lose is a man with more Job TItles than most folks will gather in a lifetime. While his entire career has been in lighting, it hasn't been linear! He's literally done everything! Tech, Master Electrician, Production Manager, Programmer, Director, LD, Account Rep, Designer Relations and more. At the core has always been a commitment to calm and kindness. Join us on Chris's journey, and also - a bit of discussion on his passion and mission towards veganism. This episode is brought to you by .2023-01-261h 57Geezers of Gear#181 - Jonathan Smeeton discusses 50 years of lighting designNot many designers have 50 years lighting the world's leading acts, from Hawkwind to Peter Gabriel, Wham, Zappa, Def Leppard and even Diana Ross. Jonathan's resume literally spans 5 full decades, and he retired on his own terms in 2018. There's a REALLY cool story included in this recording on what really happened that triggered the recording of Smoke On The Water. I had goosebumps! This episode is sponsored by . Please visit them and check out the new KL Profile FC.2023-01-172h 10Geezers of Gear#180 - We're losing too many friends... what can be done? With guests, John Featherstone, Eric Loader, Ben Saltzman and John WisemanThe group who gathered often during COVID come back to discuss a very important and sombre topic. We're losing too many friends, and it's entirely unnecessary. We're certainly not doctors, but we care enough to share some ideas, and also - to share our own stories, battles, and more.2023-01-111h 22Geezers of Gear#179 - Dan English discusses his lengthy history at Morpheus Lights and more recently LD AllianceI always think of myself as a guy who's been around since the earliest days of automated lighting, but in fact, that's not accurate. I began in the industry in 1991. Our guest, Dan English, began his career with Morpheus in 1981, a full 10 years before me. And soon after, he was there to witness the birth of the Morpheus Panospot, Panobeam, Color Fader, and so many more innovative products. Dan remembers it all so well, and shares that with us on this episode, brought to you by our friends at .2023-01-031h 18Geezers of Gear#178 - Gordon Addison.... Need I say more?Gordon is a very well known and kind soul in the live events lighting space. Based in the UK, Gordon cut his teeth in nightclubs, but has since grown businesses in both the architectural lighting and production space as well. If you've ever been to LDI, Plasa and a handful of other shows - you'll know him as the last man standing (with Elvis visa in hand!!) at the bar as well. Join us on this journey - brought to you today by .2022-12-061h 25Geezers of Gear#177 - Ben Coker from Live Events Productions / Zenith Lighting, LIVE from the LDI Show FloorBen helps to select the greatest lighting products for Live Events and Zenith Lighting. Gain insights on his picks for the best stuff at LDI 2022!2022-11-191h 38Geezers of Gear#176 - Chris McMeen at LDIChris is a well known account executive working with Christie Lites in New York and shares some great product insights from the LDI show floor. 2022-11-191h 38Geezers of Gear#175 - The Conference At LititzThis thing is impressive! Imagine being in a room with Jake Barry, Marty Hom, Charlie Hernandez, Stuart Ross and a list of 60 other top names in the industry. I am blown away by what they're putting together, and the pricetag for it all. Wow. Here details directly from 3 of the 4 partners on this, Marty, Stuart and Charlie, along with Rock Lititz Conference Director - Emily Cassidy. Check out to sign up!2022-11-011h 38Geezers of Gear#174 - Likely our MOST important discussion yet... The Entertainment AssociationWe had COVID... it came, tried very hard to destroy our industry, then (for the most part) left - and it's like we've learned nothing. As an industry, we went back to what we were doing, and forgot the important lessons we've learned. So a group of us, Marcel, Michael Strickland, Ellen Lampert (LDI), Seth Jackson and Nathan Alves have combinded to discuss the foundation of an association, simply called The Entertainment Association (TEA) to help position us as an industry, so we're NEVER looked past again. The seed will be planted at LDI where this group will be on...2022-10-1131 minGeezers of Gear#173 - Victor Fable - Lighting Designer, DP, Programmer and moreVic's 40 year career began in NY and brought him to California, and recently he moved to be closer to family in Virginia. He's worked with a "who's who" of talent, and has an enviable resume. We had a fun chat about everything from ice hockey to travel and even a little bit of lighting! Sponsored by .2022-08-232h 16Geezers of Gear#172 - Donny LodicoIt's funny how many folks think of Donny as a "video guy", when he has spent his entire career in lighting design and lighting account exec roles. Perhaps it's the last bunch of years he's spent with Video West... who are also an estimated 40% lighting. Anyway... learn this and more on Episode 172, brought to you by .2022-08-191h 14Geezers of Gear#171 - Check In with Cosmo WilsonFew designers have stayed as busy, throughout their careers, as Cosmo has. And like Frank, he really has done it his way! From Judas Priest and AC/DC to Aerosmith, Journey, Blondie and more - Cosmo has had a blast. This year alone has been a highlight of most careers, but he isn't slowing down! Brought to you by ... Enjoy!2022-08-1753 minGeezers of Gear#170 - Chris Ferrante / CEO of AyrtonChris was born in Malta, schooled in Scotland, moved to USA, then to China where he began working with Ayrton. Now, he lives in Germany, but works in Paris... Confused? Listen to Episode 170 and you'll clear that all up! A great talk with one of the kindest folks in the business. Brought to you by .2022-07-262h 05Geezers of Gear#169 - Lighting Designer / Programmer - Michael Meacham from iDesignThere are not many clubs in the world at the level of Club E11EVEN, and there are not many lighting design and installation companies who could have envisioned this, and pulled it off. That club became a pivital moment in the growth and legitimacy of Miami based iDesign. But the truth is, Michael and Christine started the business in the early 2000's, and have done dozens of worldclass projects, literally, globally. Michael checks in from his second home on the west coast of Canada, and provides for a great discussion - brought to you by .2022-07-191h 38Geezers of Gear#168 - Michael Strickland / Bandit LitesA great chat with a live events industry leader who single handedly carried much of the industry thru a near death experience! So much is unknown about Michael, and we uncover a lot of it on Episode 168, brought to you by ACT -2022-07-121h 29Geezers of Gear#167 - Huntly Christie - founder, CEO and Owner of Christie LitesHuntly started in the music industry like so many of us - as a musician, a drummer. He toured clubs while also learning about loading trucks, lighting and sound. He chose lighting for his future, and in 1985 founded Christie Lites from his home town, Toronto. He's grown Christie into a multi-national mega-player in the lighting business. This episode is brought to you by the fine folks at .2022-05-311h 41Geezers of Gear#166 - Production / Lighting Designer, Sooner RouthierSooner joins again as our unofficial "Geezette of Gear" to discuss what she's been up to since the dreaded pandemic. In case you haven't been paying attention, Sooner is an incredible designer who’s won 2 “LD of the Year” Parenelli’s, has developed and produced incredible moments for some of today's biggest headlining artists including, Coldplay, The Muse, The Weeknd, KISS, Imagine Dragons, The Lumineers, Rhianna, Pentatonix, Jay-Z, Halsey, Motley Crue, G-Eazy, and Depeche Mode. She started a pivot company during the pandemic, and since the pandemic - has done designs for Evanescence, trivium, scenic design for Ghost, The Lumineers, Vance Jo...2022-05-251h 52Geezers of Gear#165 - Stephen Vitale... CEO of Live Events ProductionsMr Vitale is the CEO and 4th generation owner of 133 year old Pyrotecnico. During the pandemic, Stephen engaged his team and created a roll up of Sound, Lighting, Video companies who would team up with his own Fireworks and SFX businesses to become Live Events Productions. Many victories and challenges later, LEP operates as a successful and vibrant collection of great businesses. Visit LEP at and also, please support our sponsor as well!2022-05-181h 22Geezers of Gear#164 - Mark Rudge brings 37 years of knowledge and experience to Geezers!Mark Rudge joined the US Lighting world in 1985, and has been a permanent fixture ever since. To know Mark is to love him. He's just one of those guys. Super nice, fun to share a pint with, and a great worker! Interesting, almost all of his biggest and longest positions have been with women. He explains why! This episode has been brought to you by .2022-05-041h 24Geezers of Gear#163 - Josh Weisberg from Scharff Weisberg & WorldstageJosh has literally been in the business 4 decades, and still rolling! He co-founded Scharff Weisberg, went on to merge and become Worldstage (leaving long before their demise), founded a Consulting firm and now, a new stage of his career, which he breaks on our podcast! This episode is brought to you by2022-03-161h 07Geezers of Gear#162 - Bob Gordon... The Console WhispererFew people ever strike gold... but imagine doing it not twice, but 3 times! That's Bob! But there's so much more to the story than most people know, and we managed to get ALL of it over a 2 hour discussion between two old friends. This episode (of course) is brought to you by2022-01-202h 06Geezers of Gear#161 - The Rocko Reedy Show!If ya know him... you've got an opinion for sure! He's not a guy who enters the room quietly, and doesn't leave you with a lasting impression. The guy has incredible stories though. He's worked for U2, played with U2, opened for U2 - and that's just the beginning! He's done SO much. A 45 year career in stage management, production management and even artist management, and he's calling it quits! Rocko has recently begun to release his videos through his Check it out - you won't be disappointed! This episode of Geezers Of Gear was brought to you by2021-12-141h 54Geezers of Gear#160 - Live from LDI - The Darkroom CreativeThis design team of Seth Jackson, and Nathan Alves have an accomplishment that no other can lay claim to. They were literally, the FIRST to tour - post covid with their client, Toby Keith. They talk about a few challenges this prested, and a bit about other projects. It was a short, but fun chat with a pair of very accomplished, and successful designers!2021-11-2130 minGeezers of Gear#159 - Live from LDI - Werner Petricek / zactrackRemote and Automated followspots, or tracking systems as some prefer to be called, are becoming a hotly contested, and more widely used range of products. A short few years ago, only the bravest, or most innovative users would even consider automating ALL of their spots, but today, many, even most of the larger shows have some form of spots that are not controlled by human operators in the truss. Werner is a brilliant and creative thinker... I think you'll learn a lot. I did!2021-11-2147 min
Geezers of Gear#157 - Live from LDI - John Gresch / ArriFew brands have the longevity and brand recognition of Arri. The brand has dominated the N American TV and Film lighting since it's launch in the 70s. John educates us on so many things, while telling some great stories from the LDI show floor.2021-11-211h 01Geezers of Gear#158 - Live from LDI - Rob Hofkamp / Void AcousticsNot only does VOID have the coolest name among sound reinforcement manufacturers, but they also have (BY FAR) the coolest looking enclosures. And guess what... they sound good too! Rob is an interesting guy... and heck - he's brave enough to exhibit, at a lighting show, post COVID... Great talk that could have gone MUCH longer.2021-11-2145 minGeezers of Gear#156 - From LDI - Chris Conti, Chief Innovation Officer / PRGChris returns to Geezers Of Gear to update us on the technical goings on at PRG - plus shares some of the COVID tech they developed, challenges faced, and even some breaking news on new PRG projects! What is the 5L? You'll find out here!2021-11-2149 minGeezers of Gear#155 - Geezers Of Gear Happy Hour 64Another weeky entry in our Geezers Of Gear happy hour discussions. Week 64 included the usual discussions on covid challenges, gear shortages and tradeshows.2021-10-2158 minGeezers of Gear#154 - The Show Must Go On.... A discussion about LDI... with LDILDI is an incredibly important show to ANYONE in the live events, lighting or entertainment technology business. I've been going to the show since 1989, and intend to continue going as long as I remain in the industry. It's an amazing networking show, and opportunity to meet, learn and interract / network.2021-10-1849 minGeezers of Gear#153 - Geezers Of Gear Happy Hour 63Lots of folks working, but we still manage to get this group together each week for spirited discussions about the current events within our industry.2021-10-141h 07Geezers of Gear#152 - Industry Happy Hour #62Discussion centered on touring challenges, travel challenges, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement and shortages of gear and personnel. Pretty much "the usual". One step forward, and 2 back! But getting closer to this illusive "normal" I hear about.2021-10-071h 05Geezers of Gear#151 - Happy Hour #61 with the usual cast of maniacsOf course, COVID is discussed. It's such an incredible roller coaster ride in our industry today. Tours start, then stop, shows cancel, people's lives are tossed around. We're definitely still deep in this challenge, although there are definitely pockets of success!2021-09-301h 13Geezers of Gear#150 - Happy Hour 60Our weekly discussions returned and have been a mixed bag of industry related discussions. Here, we get into upcoming tradeshows, how much work everyone has, and much more.2021-09-231h 26Geezers of Gear#149 - Geezers Of Gear Happy Hour 59Ahhhh the joy of connecting with industry individuals each and every week. Some great conversation this week around tradeshows, work, travel and more.2021-09-161h 24Geezers of Gear#148 - The Return of our Weekly Happy HourFor more than a year of the COVID pandemic, a group of "drop ins" carried a weekly discussion that was based on helping folks survive the mess, and sometimes (including this week) a little political as well. We decided to bring it back... and it was a BLAST! Listen here!!2021-09-101h 32Geezers of Gear#147 - Red Alert Restart 1 Year Anniversary.. WowI will always say that one of the most amazing things I was involved in organizing was this Red Alert Restart last year. The group who started it, and the ensuing MASSIVE number of volunteers - just incredible. Join us as we walk down memory lane with most of the follks who got this started.2021-09-071h 11Geezers of Gear#146 - The Venue 11 with GearSource team on the current CRAZY SEASON for GearWhen athletes are in the early stages of Free Agency, it is often called Crazy Season. Folks are signed quickly, while being persued by multiple teams for more than their ask. The current used equipment market is comparable. A few items are selling for double what they were in 2020, and there just isn't enough of so many things. The GearSource team have a unique perspective, given the company's clobal markets. You might pick up some important pointers on this one, wherever you are!2021-08-1246 minGeezers of Gear#145 - The Venue 10... with The Covid CrewMarcel, John Featherston, Eric Loader and John Wiseman discuss current events, a few closures and other antics. Brought to you by .2021-08-0547 minGeezers of Gear#144 - The Venue 9 - Another livestream discussionOn episode 144, I am alone with my thoughts... discussing whatever comes to mind. #144 is brought to you by - the leading global gear marketplace.2021-07-2937 minGeezers of Gear#143 - The Venue 8 - New World Challenges.. Gear and People!We discuss some very important challenges that continue to plague our new reality. Shows and tours are pushing out quickly, and others are coming behind them - but at what point to supply chain issues halt our progress? Lets talk about it!2021-07-2250 minGeezers of Gear#142 - The Venue #7 - Choose Your Attitude.. Staying Positive against ALL odds!In 2020, I became friends with a young touring video tech named Nicholas Strand. Nick's brand, "Choose Your Attitude" inspired me enough to buy his tee shirts (I highly recommend them for FEEL GOOD wear) and to spend hours upon hours discussing his strategy, business direction, and even his personal and professional challenges. Nick is a unique and inspiring individual with an incredible story to share. When COVID hit, Nick was on tour with the Dave Matthews Band, and suddenly, he was back home, unknowing of the future, and still mourning the recent loss of both his mother and wife. Nick...2021-07-151h 20
Geezers of Gear#141 - Behind The Scenes... Providing Help to Live Events since 2005On Episode 141 we talk with Behind The Scenes Executive Director, Lori Rubinstein, and Director Jim Digby to discuss the first organization to focus on the critical needs of folks in the Live Events industry. BTS has provided much needed grants to entertainment technology professionals in need for basic living, medical or even, sadly, funeral expenses. The Foundation further encourages the entertainment industry to create their own events and programs in support of charity. COVID has created so much need, so we'll address those concerns and more! Please Visit today!2021-07-071h 06
Geezers of Gear#140 - The Venue #5 - The Team from Robe Backstage discuss their helpful platformBoard Members Craig Burross and Lori Cochenour of , along with foundation volunteer Bryan Matthews, will be at FOH to discuss and share the organization’s founding and their endeavor to help support lighting industry professionals faced with adverse life-changing circumstances. Established in 2020, Robe Backstage is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization created to a be a support system for lighting professionals facing financial challenges associated with serious injury, illness, or loss of employment due to unforeseen or mandated production shutdowns. Be sure to visit .2021-07-0155 minGeezers of Gear#139 - The Venue #4 - Is Your Business (and Personal Business) in OrderJohn Wiseman and Marcel discuss some things that are very important to people and businesses in our industry as all times, but even moreso today, Post-Covid. Sadly, people are NOT prepared and as a result, we're seeing way too often that folks are relying on Go Fund Me or other forms of crowd support. It's sad, and we need to do better. Hopefully, this is a start to informing people to our shortcomings.2021-06-241h 13Geezers of Gear#138 - Gateway Studios and Production Services Leadership TeamJoin Marcel and the executive leadership team from Gateway who join the podcast to discuss the model, their foundation, the schedule for completion, and much more. A very exciting new business that will benefit the entire touring / live events business in N America.2021-06-181h 09
Geezers of Gear#137 - The Venue #3... Random ChatterOur new format is up and running... Please join us LIVE on the FOH or the LiveStream on either Youtube or Facebook.2021-06-1748 min
Geezers of Gear#136 - The Venue #2... Let's Talk About Gear!The Venue is a Geezers of Gear weekly discussion / Happy Hour with a group of the industry's thought leaders. This week, the gang discusses a few new thoughts on opening, but also - we get into some discussion on gear, new releases, rental rates and other fun stuff. Check it out!2021-06-101h 29
Geezers of Gear#135 - The Venue 1 / We are BACK!New this week, more than a year of weekly Happy Hour Zoom discussions becomes The Venue.... with a panel we call the Front Of House. Each week, we will tackle topics that are relevant and timely for our industry. This week, we talk about the massive increase of live events, sporting events, conventions and more.2021-06-031h 16
Geezers of Gear#134 - Tom Litrell... Literally, the world's FIRST Moving Light Programmer!Not too many people can lay claim to being the very first guy in the world to program a moving light system. Tom was a tech, then Programmer at Showco (Vari-Lite) when they developed and launched the VL0 then VL1. He struck gold again with ETC when he was there as they moved into their first LED sourced products - now a significant part of ETC's sales. Brought to you by2021-05-081h 33
Geezers of Gear#133 - The Covid Crew Anniversary... yup 1 year to the day since our first!In March of 2020, we put together this small group of visionary leaders from the industry - and at the time - had NO idea what it was for. We just knew that we needed to talk through this, and hopefully, provide some guidance or insight to folks who were pretty shocked, anxious and stressed. We made some bold predictions (mostly WAY wrong) but we also said some things that really ring true, still today. It's been a hell of a year... and the gang reflects, listens back to some of our predictions, and continues to positively point north through the...2021-03-181h 06
Geezers of Gear#132 - Promotor, Tour Manager, Tour Accountant - Larry RichterDuring 30 years in the business, Larry Richter has produced world class concerts, tours and events for the biggest names in music from North America to China, Jamaica to Russia. He’s been a tour manager, tour accountant, tour director, promoter and venue owner / operator. Much to learn from this episode... brought to you by .2021-03-091h 42
Geezers of Gear#131 - Tour Manager - Tim "Gooch" Lougeeas he's known by most - has been managing tours since the early '90's, but even before that, he was a FOH sound engineer. He's worked with artists including Smashing Pumpkins, Depeche Mode, Kiss, J-Lo, Kesha and Stone Temple Pilots. He's also a passionate member of the TPA and is doing all he can to help those who need during COVID. This episode is brought to you by .2021-03-012h 05
Geezers of Gear#130 - Patrick Whalen of Backstage Productions / Backstage AerialThat "P-Word".... (pivot) is the main topic of discussion. Patrick was able to turn a childhood hobby - RC planes, cars, etc - into a business in only 8 or 9 months. Already working with clients like Bieber and T-Mobile, Patrick has earned himself a real place in the Drone video business. Also the pair discussed the industry, recovery timing, and even sailing!2021-02-181h 27
Geezers of Gear#129 - Legendary Production Manager Jake BerryJake has been Production Manager for The Firm, AC-DC, Black Sabbath, Metallica, Motley Crue, Madonna, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, The Stones, U2, Shakira, Beyonce, Insomniac and of course, the Wiggles and Barney too!… Plus SO much more. He's a legend and a great story teller as well. Not to mention his ongoing efforts to save our industry!2021-02-081h 45
Geezers of Gear#128 - Top Tour Manager (and nice guy!) Marty HomMarty Hom has been a "top of the heap" tour manager for almost 40 years now and has toured with acts like Fleetwood Mac, Shakira, Janet Jackson, Beyonce, Lionel Richie, Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Shania Twain, Van Halen, Sheena Easton, Paula Abdul and so many more. In fact, 2020 was planned to be another great year that would place Marty with the Rolling Stones... but then came COVID! Marty is at the height of his career, and is hoping to get back to work soon, and took a couple of hours to sit down with Geezers Of Gear to discuss the past...2021-02-021h 52
Geezers of Gear#127 - Robb Jibson does it different in 2020Few people have managed to create new work, sometimes with new clients, in 2020. Robb has added to his skillset, and even created a music video with Chevelle this year. He's learned the world of virtual performances / XR stages, and even created better Zoom environments for entertainers and companies alike. He didn't have to cut wages or staff, and managed to keep his company, SoMidwest alive. Take a listen, and you'll learn how he did it. Episode brought to you by the - more than just a Zoom light... Contact GLP for more information.2020-12-221h 08
Geezers of Gear#126 - The Covid Crew Christmas SpecialAnother installment from the COVID crew. Host Marcel Fairbairn, with John Featherstone, Eric Loader, John Wiseman and Ben Saltzman. The gang cover a little politics, virtual events (or not), the new relief deal, the vaccine and more. A very good recording... don't miss it.2020-12-221h 32
Geezers of Gear#125 - Michael Richter - Production Manager (and SO much more!)While Michael is currently best known as Production Manager for Reo Speedwagon and Brian Setzer, you'll learn that he does and has done SO much more. He's a very reliable, hard working professional who has earned every opportunity he's been given. Unfortunately, since March, he's had ZERO gigs like so many, and he can only hope that things begin to turn for our industry, and he can get back to what he loves, with his road families. Episode 125 is brought to you by the Marketplace.2020-12-181h 48
Geezers of Gear#124 - Bennett "Bud" Horowitz, Lighting DesignerBud Horowitz has been designing shows since the 70s. He started in theater, and quickly decided that touring was his real calling. He worked with an eclectic list of artist that includes Devo, Captain and Tennille, Natalie Cole and Stevie Wonder, before settling in really nicely for 20+ years with Yanni, whom he was doing shows with earlier this year, prior to being halted by COVID. Yanni brought Bud to spectacular show locations including the Pyramids in Egypt. Like the rest of us, Bud is keeping himself as busy as he can, while waiting for the clouds to lift. Be sure...2020-12-081h 35
Geezers of Gear#123 - The Bridge... A Pivot to Remote Shows with Patrick Dierson (The Activity / The Farm) and Matt Geasey (Just Networking / The Bridge)The Activity (a design firm) and The Farm (pre-viz studio) have recently partnered with Matt Geasey with Just Networking, to offer a very unique - remote - solution to their design and pre-viz clients. Learn more about it on Episode 123, brought to you by .2020-11-191h 00
Geezers of Gear#122 - Nicholas Strand... Choose Your Attitude®Most of us are presented with challenges, and we're lucky enough to pull through it. Nicholas Strand was hit with several, and still, somehow manages to land on his feet. He's got an incredible / sad / inspirational story and a really amazing pivot as well. A great listen for all! Brought to you by Elation Professional2020-11-191h 43
Geezers of Gear#121 - The Covid Crew is BACK!Another check-in from some of the brighter minds in the business, Eric Loader / Elation Professional, Ben Saltzman / ACT Lighting, John Featherstone / Lightswitch, John Wiseman / PRG and Marcel Fairbairn from GearSource. In another must hear discussion you'll hear them discuss the industry, the virus, politics and more.2020-10-161h 13
Geezers of Gear#91 - Industry COVID19 Discussion 2Once of our biggest episodes was episode #85 where I was able to assemble a top group of individuals who shared important information with our listeners. We decided to do it again, but this time, adding Live Nation executive, Tres Thomas. The discussion on this episode is very important and timely as well. Included on this podcast we have host, Marcel Fairbairn, Eric Loader / VP of Elation Lighting, Ben Saltzman / ACT Lighting, John Wiseman / SVP PRG, John Featherstone / Founder and Partner Lightswitch, Tres Thomas / Live Nation SORRY for the mentions of episode 92 - I was mistaken! Please share these important links: Cr...2020-04-071h 30
Geezers of Gear#86 - Randy Wade joins me to discuss his long career in touring sound, lighting and journalismRandy began his career as an agent before joining Morpheus Lighting (twice), Performance Magazine, Varilite, ShowCo, Audio Analysts and also working with Geezer Host - Marcel, at Tracoman / Martin in the mid-90s.2020-03-231h 45
Geezers of Gear#72 - Geezer, Marcel Fairbairn interviewed by "the Astronaut's Wife" Anita MitchellFor a year, the question has been "when do YOU get interviewed"... and while this isn't the concert industry interview you'd likely expect, it is a great interview done by a local celebrity, Anita Mitchell, who among other things was the head of the Republican Party here, was married to Apollo 14 astronaut, Edgar Mitchell and was the Chair for Jeb Bush during his 2016 Presidential campaign. Enjoy!2020-01-3138 min
Geezers of Gear#67 - Gratitude for a really great year of Geezers of GearMarcel gives thanks and discusses every single episode recorded in what has been an incredible 11 months of Geezers Of Gear. Showing gratitude to our guests, listeners and of course, our sponsors.2019-12-231h 13
Geezers of Gear#8 - Robert Mokry brings 30 years of Automated Lighting ExperienceToday, we talk with Robert "guitar" Mokry about the past, present and future of automated lighting. We cover a bit about control consoles, video and much more. Unfortunately, a technical glitch (Marcel hit the wrong button at a VERY wrong time) - we lost the first 20 minutes of our interview... so you miss the introductions and a lengthy discussion about his early days in the biz. Sorry!!2019-03-011h 04
Geezers of Gear#2 - The Evolution of Automated Lighting - Part 1In this episode, Marcel and Henry talk about how tradeshows have changed and specifically, the NAMM show which is taking place this weekend. They also begin a discussion on video, the new LED tiles that the company, GearSource are so involved in re-marketing and of course, like the title says, they start the discussion on evolution of lighting - which will be continued in Episode 32019-01-2526 min