Best Automation Ladies Podcasts (2025)

1
Automating the Farm - The Future of Agtech with Katie Bradford 1:01:17

4d ago1:01:17

1:01:17

How is automation and robotics changing the future of farming? Katie Bradford, Founder and CEO of Rotate8, joins Nikki to share her story of building practical automation that empowers small farms to thrive without sacrificing repairability or local expertise. Tune in to hear the challenges and opportunities in ag-tech, the design of accessible rob…

1
Geezers Of Gear FutureTech - Elation REBEL Profile Unleashed 6:49

3d ago6:49

6:49

Dive into the bold new Elation REBEL Profile, a compact, IP65-rated powerhouse reshaping professional lighting for both indoor and outdoor events. On this episode of FutureTech, Chris and Lacy break down its innovative features, rugged design, and why it’s quickly becoming the go-to fixture for creative lighting professionals. https://www.youtube.c…

1
Lyme Disease, Tick Survival Myths, and Protecting Your Family with Tick Expert Emily Merritt 1:10:02

11d ago1:10:02

1:10:02

Think ticks can’t find you at work? Think again! In this special episode hosts Nikki Gonzales and Courtney Fernandez sit down with tick expert Emily Merritt (aka the “Tick Chick”). Learn firsthand what Lyme disease can really mean, what to watch for after a bite, how to handle household exposure, and tips you won’t find on a repellant can. Ready to…

1
Bridging Tech, Manufacturing & STEM Careers with Brit Bartolini 1:05:19

18d ago1:05:19

1:05:19

This week Nikki sits down with Brit Bartolini, Enterprise Account Director at MaintainX, for a conversation on digital transformation in manufacturing, the future of maintenance, and attracting new generations to STEM careers. Hear how real-world manufacturing pain points, a love of gadgets, and a dash of maker-spirit are turning maintenance work i…

1
Fixing Automation’s Biggest Skills Gap With Paul Godines 54:20

25d ago54:20

54:20

Frustrated by the skills gap in automation? There’s a new approach in town. Join Nikki Gonzales as she sits down with Paul Godines from Logix Trainers to talk real solutions for bridging the entry-level technician divide. On this episode of Automation Ladies, you’ll get the inside story on why simulation training matters, what makes tenacity essent…

1
#312 - Scott Fisher - Pirate ships, automation systems, construction, collaboration and experiences 1:32:37

27d ago1:32:37

1:32:37

Scott is the founder and former CEO of Fisher Technical Services (FTSI), where he developed the industry-changing Navigator control system for live entertainment and film automation. After merging FTSI with Tait, Scott shifted focus to motion control and stunt rigging for major feature films. With decades of experience across touring, themed attrac…

1
FutureTech - ETC SiteLink - Always-On Monitoring: The Future of Lighting and Rigging Control 7:19

1M ago7:19

7:19

Explore the revolutionary ETC SiteLink, a cloud-based monitoring solution offering real-time access to lighting and rigging systems worldwide. Hosts Chris and Lacy dive into its features, customization options, and impact on the entertainment industry.

1
#311 - Gregg Brunclik - Navigating Retirement: A Personal Journey 1:25:07

1M ago1:25:07

1:25:07

Greg is the Founder and Chairman of Clearwing Productions, Inc., a leading live event production company he established in 1985. With over 40 years in the industry, Greg has built Clearwing into a trusted provider of full-service production support—including audio, lighting, staging, video, and backline services—for events of all sizes. From intima…

1
Building Smart Factories and Smart Teams: Secrets from Dr. Nicole Schra-Martin 45:04

1M ago45:04

45:04

How do you build sustainable talent pipelines for the industry? Nikki Gonzales, Ali G, and Courtney Fernandez sit down with Dr. Nicole Schra Martin, an expert in manufacturing and automation, to discuss early STEM education, practical hiring for automation roles, and the changing face of industrial automation careers. These themes are essential for…

1
Mastering Trade Show Success with Joe Campbell & Jennifer Mass 1:09:34

2M ago1:09:34

1:09:34

What’s the ROI of your trade show booth? Trade shows cost more than most companies realize. Yet, year after year, exhibitors throw away tens of thousands by showing up unprepared, staff glued to phones, demos unfinished, and leads lost. In this episode we chat with veteran exhibitors and industry experts, Joe Campbell and Jennifer Mass, to learn ho…

1
#310 - Benoit Richard - Life Choices: Balancing Career and Family 2:31:58

2M ago2:31:58

2:31:58

Lighting legend Benoit Richard returns for a long-overdue follow-up to his original appearance on Geezers of Gear, recorded just before the pandemic changed the world. In this episode, Benoit dives into how his career evolved since 2020, shifting further into motion picture and television work while continuing to apply his concert touring experienc…

1
Elation - Lighting Breakthroughs for Theaters and Events 10:31

2M ago10:31

10:31

This episode highlights how Elation's cutting-edge technologies, including the KL CORE IP and KL PROFILE FC, are revolutionizing outdoor events, historic theaters like Stefan Żeromski Theater and Dakota Theater, and multi-functional venues like Nova Broadcasting Group. Chris and Lacy share personal experiences, showing how LED advancements enhance …

1
#309 - Chris “Smoother” Smyth - Navigating the Music Industry: Insights from Smoother 1:47:03

2M ago1:47:03

1:47:03

Founder & CFO, Delicate Productions Chris “Smoother” Smyth is the founder and CFO of Delicate Productions, with over 45 years in live event production. His career began in the early ’70s with a spontaneous leap onto a U.S. tour, eventually working with artists like Genesis, Leo Sayer, Patti Smith, and Kiss. A pivotal tour with Supertramp led to the…

1
Building Kansas City’s Go-To Controls Team with Caitlyn Young 1:00:36

2M ago1:00:36

1:00:36

What is it like to build a thriving controls engineering company with your partner? The Automation Ladies sit down with Caitlyn Young from Integrated Controls and Engineering to discuss what it takes to balance business, engineering, and partnership—all while serving the local industry at the highest level. Join us as Caitlyn shares the secrets of …

1
FutureTech - The Versatility and Impact of the Elation PULSE 8:25

2M ago8:25

8:25

Learn about the transformative power of Elation PULSE technology, from dazzling New Year’s Eve displays at the Seattle Space Needle to the revitalization of Truth Nightclub in Johannesburg. Discover how cutting-edge fixtures like the PULSE Bar and PULSE Panel conquer logistical challenges and enhance audience experiences worldwide. Chris and Lacy s…

1
AI, Tariffs, and Million-Dollar Mistakes in Automation—Live Insights With Frank Hurtte & Larry White 1:08:08

2M ago1:08:08

1:08:08

Curious why manufacturer-distributor relationships still make or break automation sales? Nikki Gonzales talked with industry veterans Frank Hurtte & Larry White at AHTD about tariffs, global supply chain headaches, how AI is shifting the workforce & why family-run industrial businesses are thriving. ------ Huge thank you to Automate.org for sponsor…

1
FutureTech - Mainlight's Legacy and Innovations in Live Events 8:16

2M ago8:16

8:16

Join us and discover Main Light's 42-year legacy in live event production, plus their recently expanded inventory featuring CHAINMASTER D8 hoists, and the rigorous equipment testing in their state-of-the-art facilities in all locations. Our hosts share personal experiences, emphasizing the role of reliability, innovative solutions, and exceptional …

1
Major Life Updates, Texas Moves, and Big Community News 54:18

2M ago54:18

54:18

The Automation Ladies are all back together! Catch up as they mark the return of the podcast for a new season, sharing candid updates on life transitions, moves, industry shifts, and unexpected opportunities. Listen in for real talk about building and growing their women-led automation community, the creative push behind the unique OT SCADA CON eve…

1
#308 - Sooner Routhier - Innovative Approaches to Show Design 1:12:13

2M ago1:12:13

1:12:13

Sooner Rae Routhier is an award-winning show designer and creative producer behind some of the most iconic live performances of the past two decades. Her work with artists like Coldplay, Green Day, The Weeknd, Paramore, Muse, and Rihanna has been seen on global tours and major broadcasts including The AMA’s, The Voice, and The Tonight Show. A two-t…

1
FutureTech - Lighting Innovations with Elation and Dakota Theater 9:28

2M ago9:28

9:28

Discover how Dakota Theater in The Hague transformed its events with Elation's groundbreaking LED systems, supported by Rolight. This episode highlights the KL and FUZE series, detailing their precision, energy efficiency, and creative versatility, which benefit theaters, live shows, and cinematic setups alike. Learn how these innovations redefine …

1
#307 - Kim Martin - Women in Lighting: Breaking Barriers and Building Careers - LEADING LADIES 2:03:49

2M ago2:03:49

2:03:49

In this episode of Leading Ladies, host Sarah Birnie speaks with Kim Martin, an accomplished account manager at Felix Lighting, about her journey in the lighting industry. They discuss the importance of education, networking, and self-awareness in building a successful career. Kim shares her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field, the cha…

1
Predictive Maintenance and Industry Insights with Ryan Treece 49:38

2M ago49:38

49:38

Many factories struggle with unexpected equipment failure, resulting in costly downtime hits without warning. How can you avoid this with predictive maintenance strategies? Join us as we welcome special guest Ryan Treece from FreeWave Technologies for a discussion covering many industry insights. Discover how implementing predictive maintenance usi…

1
#306 - Steve Terry - Be someone people want to work with. 1:43:38

3M ago1:43:38

1:43:38

With over 50 years in the industry, Steve Terry has been a driving force in entertainment lighting technology and standards. As Director of Standards and Industry Relations at ETC, he has shaped global protocols like DMX512, RDM, and ACN and contributed to the National Electrical Code (NEC) Panel since 1994. Previously, he led Production Arts Light…

1
#305 - Mindi Pelletier - The heart of touring - LEADING LADIES 1:42:05

3M ago1:42:05

1:42:05

With over 25 years in the music industry, Mindi is a highly respected tour manager known for her expertise in handling every facet of touring, from pre-production and logistics to budgeting and day-to-day operations. She has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including The Chicks, Avril Lavigne, Norah Jones, Tori Amos, Fleetwood Mac, a…

1
#304 - FUTURETECH featuring ETC - Innovations in Lighting Consoles 7:48

3M ago7:48

7:48

In this episode of Geezers of Gear, the hosts celebrate the 50th anniversary of ETC, a leader in entertainment lighting. They discuss the legacy of ETC, including the iconic Source Four, and explore the innovative new lineup of Hog consoles designed for various production needs. The conversation highlights the importance of reliable technology in c…

1
Catch up with Nikki - What's Coming in Season 6 28:17

3M ago28:17

28:17

We’re back! In this special solo kickoff to Season 6, Nikki shares what’s new with Automation Ladies — including her new role at Weintek USA, a big media partnership, and all the exciting things ahead for the show and community. In this episode: •Why Nikki joined the team at Weintek USA •The big announcement: Automation Ladies is now part of Indust…

1
#303 - Joe Wojcik - Confetti, Special Effects, Event Production & AI in the Entertainment Industry 1:04:38

3M ago1:04:38

1:04:38

Joe is a seasoned international business executive with over 25 years of experience in global expansion, operations, and business transformation. Having lived in Japan and Hong Kong for seven years, he has successfully launched and grown businesses in over 50 countries.Currently President of Artistry In Motion, Joe led the company to record sales a…

1
#302 - Heidi Casson - LEADING LADIES PODCAST 1:23:54

3M ago1:23:54

1:23:54

Heidi is a seasoned production stage manager with a career spanning theater, live TV, film, and large-scale concert productions. From The Lion King and Celine Dion’s Vegas residency to The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, she thrives in high-pressure live events. Passionate about mentorship and mental health in the industry, Heidi v…

1
#301 - Bob McCarthy 2:00:30

3M ago2:00:30

2:00:30

Bob McCarthy is a leading expert in sound system design and optimization, with over 40 years in the industry. He pioneered Source Independent Measurement (SIM®) in 1984 and has worked on major productions, including Metallica, Cirque du Soleil, and Broadway hits like Wicked and Les Misérables. His book, Sound Systems: Design and Optimization, is a …

1
#300 - Steve Watts 1:42:04

3M ago1:42:04

1:42:04

Steve Watts is the founder and Managing Director of Abstract AVR, a pioneer in LED lighting innovation for architectural, entertainment, and commercial sectors. With over 35 years in the industry, he has designed groundbreaking products like the Twister, one of the most reproduced disco lights, and the VR8 intelligent scanner.From his early days as…

1
#299 - Hailey and Ella Featherstone - LEADING LADIES PODCAST 1:19:46

4M ago1:19:46

1:19:46

Hailey Featherstone is an award-winning lighting designer and director with a passion for crafting immersive experiences. With a BA in Theatre Design and Production from ASU, she has worked across all facets of the industry—from technician to creative lead—on global tours, special events, and interactive installations.Her credits include:Hans Zimme…

1
#298 - Ethan Weber 1:32:41

4M ago1:32:41

1:32:41

Ethan Weber is a renowned lighting designer and director, best known for his decades-long work with The Rolling Stones and an extensive career spanning U2, John Mayer, Green Day, P!nk, and more. Starting at See Factor in 1984, he joined the Stones in 1994’s Voodoo Lounge Tour, evolving into a key creative force behind their legendary shows. With a …

1
#297 - Kara Kemp - LEADING LADIES PODCAST 1:18:37

4M ago1:18:37

1:18:37

Kara Kemp is a passionate leader dedicated to supporting live event professionals. As General Manager of ECCHO Live, she champions mental health, career growth, and industry-wide education. With a background in business, performing arts, and over a decade as a Dega Catering crew chief, she’s worked alongside music legends like Bob Dylan and Keith U…

1
#296 - Todd Spencer 2:29:27

4M ago2:29:27

2:29:27

Todd Spencer has a career that spans more than 25 years with firms varying in size from 1 million to $3 billion in revenue. Over 18 years, in executive leadership roles working with both startups and established companies to guide strategic and operational growth, acquisitions, turnarounds and business sales. Establish track record of success in st…

1
#295 - Amber Williams - LEADING LADIES PODCAST 1:10:48

4M ago1:10:48

1:10:48

With over a decade in the entertainment industry, Amber has built an impressive career as a production coordinator and VIP coordinator, working alongside legendary artists like Alice Cooper and The Hollywood Vampires (Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Johnny Depp). From coordinating world tours to ensuring seamless VIP experiences, Amber thrives in high-pre…

1
#294 - John Huntington 2:23:10

4M ago2:23:10

2:23:10

John Huntington is an entertainment technology expert, educator, author, and photographer with over three decades of experience in show control, sound, and networking systems. Holding an MFA from Yale School of Drama and a BFA from Ithaca College, he has worked as a tenured professor at NYC College of Technology/CUNY, systems engineer for major pro…

1
#293 - Jeff Ravitz 2:10:47

5M ago2:10:47

2:10:47

Jeff Ravitz is a Primetime Emmy winning lighting designer specializing in live entertainment for multi-camera television, concert tours, and special events. His work includes award shows, comedy specials, concert films, and televised operas, with notable projects like the Olympics medal ceremonies and world tours for Bruce Springsteen, Cher, and Ri…

1
#292 - Chris Chalk 2:38:23

5M ago2:38:23

2:38:23

Hailing from Perth, Western Australia, Chris ‘Chalky’ Chalk discovered his passion for production lighting during high school, sparking a career that began with an Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts (Lighting) at WAAPA in 2000 and an internship at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.After joining the Festival as a lighting technician in 2003, he trans…

1
#291 - FutureTech - featuring the Elation Paragon series fixtures 21:54

5M ago21:54

21:54

Welcome to Geezers Of Gear first FutureTech Podcast. In this inaugural episode, our Ai hosts will be discussing the new Elation Paragon Series. Now isn't this better than reading spec's?

1
#290 - David Davidian 1:10:41

5M ago1:10:41

1:10:41

With a career spanning nearly five decades, David has been a key figure in live entertainment, working with iconic artists such as The Rolling Stones, Van Halen, Night Ranger, Alice Cooper, and many more. His multifaceted expertise includes roles as a Lighting Designer, Production Manager, Tour Manager, and Video Director, showcasing his versatilit…

1
#289 - Tanya Collyer 1:34:56

5M ago1:34:56

1:34:56

Tanya has over 25years experience in the industry as an incredible Chef, personal Chef to Artists and Bands such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, Florence and the Machine to name but a few. Tanya has taken a massive step recently and started her very own Catering Company, The Rolling Stoves. Her very first Gig was with ColdPlay in Australia. Tan…

1
#288 - Seth Jackson 1:12:02

5M ago1:12:02

1:12:02

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 for Lighting Design of the Year, and the Paul Waterbury Award of International Distinction in Architecture. In 2024, he was the lighting and production designer for The Doobie Brothers Tour 2024,…

1
#287 - Bill Price 1:40:03

5M ago1:40:03

1:40:03

Bill Price is a consultant of entertainment technology and a freelance designer, Lighting Designer, Director, Set Designer, Theatrical and Dance productions. He has been active in the Entertainment industry for over 40 years. Most recently Bill was the Vice President for AKT3 the Mid-Atlantic representative of lighting, rigging and draperies for en…

1
#286 - Marcel Fairbairn 2:01:22

6M ago2:01:22

2:01:22

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 ind…

1
#285 - Kristin Rinden - LEADING LADIES PODCAST 1:42:34

6M ago1:42:34

1:42:34

Kristin has been in the industry for over 25years, she started as VIP Experience & Sponsorship Coordinator for American Idol Live Tour and then became their Road Manager. Since then Kristin has been Production Coordinator and Production Manager for many bands and artists including; Meghan Trainor, Barry Manilow, Pharrell Williams, Carly Rae Jepsen,…

1
#284 - Get Friggin Festive 1:13:17

6M ago1:13:17

1:13:17

Geezers Of Gear special Podcast with a group of friends in the industry, catching up and raising a glass for the Holidays!

1
Demo of Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure w/ Jen Sutter, Itoro Meshioye & Talita Clemente 58:49

6M ago58:49

58:49

How can breaking free from traditional limitations unlock a new era of innovation and resilience in automation? Join us with Jennifer Sutter, Itoro Meshioye, and Talita Clemente, three amazing women from Schneider Electric, who are pioneering the “Universal Automation” movement, where design flexibility and hardware independence redefine possibilit…

1
#283 - LDI Review with Marcel and Sarah 1:14:09

6M ago1:14:09

1:14:09

Join 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.

1
Collaborative Innovation, AI, & Cultural Dynamics w/ Dylan DuFresne 1:07:27

6M ago1:07:27

1:07:27

How can the collaboration between AI and cultural understanding create optimal performance in projects? Join us with Solutions Architect, Dylan DuFresne, as we navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation, shedding light on the often-overlooked human elements that can make or break technology implementations. We reflect on the evolving …

1
#282 - Andrew "Hamish" Mills 1:48:09

6M ago1:48:09

1:48:09

Andrew Mills, known as Hamish in the industry, brings more than 30 years of Entertainment industry Experience. Hamish Has Toured with acts like U2, Metallica, Nirvana, Rod Stewart and other high-profile entertainers, and worked with service providers in the U.S., Australia, U.K. and Europe. Hammish has been responsible for managing and directing op…

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