We are devoted to using “disruptive innovation” to teach and learn, by telling stories, having discussions on life, and taking a humorous and irreverent look at the backstage world of the entertainment industry. What Exactly Does it mean to be a disruptive innovator? Disruptive innovation is the idea that when a service is introduced into an established industry and performs better than existing offerings, it can displace the market leaders and even transform the industry.
What happens when two stage managers get fired up about the state of community theater? You get this conversation. In this solo episode of Backstage Banter, Jay sits down with DJ to unpack the real challenges and surprising solutions that emerged from a recent conference, from unpaid tech crews to poorly planned seasons and burnout behind the curtain.
They dive into:
The quiet crisis happening in college theater programs and community spaces
How entrepreneurial thinking can solve persistent production problems
The role of mentorship, and why most stage managers never really had one
The origin stories that pulled them both into teaching and leadership
From Deer Lick’s "pay-to-play" model to the potential of creating pre-rehearsal ASM training videos, this episode is full of insight, laughter, and a bit of righteous fire. Bryan’s off on assignment this time, but he'll be back next week.
Listen now, and if this episode sparks an idea or hits a nerve, drop us a comment or share it with someone behind the scenes.
14 Apr 2025
Ep 24: Who Knows You w/ Laura Zingle
In this episode, we’re joined by Laura Zingle—stage manager, freelancer, and connection-builder extraordinaire—to dive into the realities of always being on the hunt for the next gig. We talk about the freelance hustle, how to stay connected with people after the job ends, and why keeping relationships alive in this industry is about more than just networking—it's about being remembered.
We discuss our approach to staying visible, building genuine connections, and navigating the in-between moments of freelance life. And we even touch on how tools like LinkedIn (yes, even Premium) can support that visibility when you're not in the room.
If you’ve ever wondered how to keep doors open after the final curtain call, this one’s for you.
7 Apr 2025
Ep 23: Managing the Unknown w/ Kate Poundstone
We’re joined by the powerhouse Kate Poundstone—a stage manager whose career has spanned the loud, fast, and unpredictable world of Rock n Roll and now dives deep into the immersive exhibition space. Kate shares her journey through the ever-changing landscape of live entertainment and what it takes to survive (and thrive) when every gig, artist, and team demands something different.
We unpack what it really means to be a chameleon in this industry: adapting on the fly, managing chaos with grace, and building a thick skin when you're constantly stepping into new environments. Kate brings thoughtful insight into the freelancer mindset, the challenge of always having to prove yourself, and how that compares to the stability and structure of long-term roles within state labor companies.
If you’ve ever felt the tension between reinvention and reliability in your career, this one’s for you.
Reach and audience
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 51 / 100
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Quality
90
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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