Backstage Banter

Bryan Runion, Jay Sheehan
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PERFORMING ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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.

  1. 04/21/2025

    Ep 25: We Could Fix That w/ DJ Maloney

    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 "pay-to-play" models 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.

    19 min

  2. 04/14/2025

    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.

    48 min

  3. 04/07/2025

    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.

    50 min

  4. 03/31/2025

    Ep 22: Riding the Rollercoaster

    Jay and Bryan dive into the highs, lows, and sharp turns that come with working in a constantly shifting industry. From unexpected show closures and sudden job losses to surprise opportunities that pop up out of nowhere, we talk about the ripple effects these moments can create—and how we each handle them. Are you someone who needs a plan and a backup plan? Or do you trust the chaos and roll with whatever comes your way? Either way, this one’s for you. Let us know where you land in the comments!

    35 min

  5. 03/24/2025

    Ep 21: Creative Leaps w/ Pavel Kotov

    Pavel Kotov, International Casting Director and longtime creative force behind Cirque du Soleil joins Jay and Bryan to talk about the artistry behind building a show from the ground up. After two decades of discovering and casting extraordinary talent around the world, Pavel shares why he’s stepping into a new chapter—and how a simple message on LinkedIn sparked an unexpected opportunity. From global stages to fresh beginnings, this conversation dives into the magic of creativity, curiosity, and taking the next leap. We love hearing from YOU! Drop us a comment, or send us an email if you have thoughts about an episode, have ideas for an episode, or just want to share your disruptive innovations. Send us an email at ⁠backstagebanterthepodcast@gmail.com⁠ or leave us a comment on the podcast!

    51 min

  6. 03/17/2025

    Ep 20: Breaking Boxes w/ Liza Marie Hackman

    In this episode, Jay and I sit down with the incredible Liza Marie Hackman to talk about the art of making connections as a stage manager, the importance of not putting ourselves in a box, and how staying adaptable can open unexpected doors. And just when you think you know where the conversation is going, we dive into something a little…unpredictable. Could AI have a future in stage management? The answer might surprise you. Tune in for laughs, insights, and maybe even a glimpse into the future of our industry.

    40 min

  7. 03/10/2025

    Ep 19: Building Relationships w/ Matthew Stern

    What does it really take to go from calling cues on Broadway to shaping the next generation of stage managers? Matthew Stern knows. But his journey didn’t stop at the theater doors. From navigating the high-stakes commercial world of Broadway to launching The Broadway Stage Management Symposium that brings stage managers together, he’s built a career on more than just timing—it’s about relationships. And the surprising part? The relationships we create and foster might just be the key to our success far beyond the spotlight, but what is the recipe for success? Listen to find out! We love hearing from YOU! Drop us an email if you have thoughts about an episode, have ideas for an episode, or just want to share your disruptive innovations. Send us an email at ⁠backstagebanterthepodcast@gmail.com⁠ or leave us a comment on the podcast! Links mentioned in our podcast: Event Training Academy https://www.eventtrainingacademy.com/ Broadway Stage Management Symposiumhttps://www.broadwaysymposium.com/

    54 min

  8. 03/03/2025

    Ep 18: Taking Risks

    In this episode, we’re talking about taking risks—those big, scary leaps that can either pay off in a huge way or crash and burn spectacularly. From bold creative choices to career-changing decisions, we share stories of when going for it worked… and when it totally didn’t. Whether you’re all about pushing boundaries or more of a play-it-safe type, this one’s for you.

    25 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Bryan Runion, Jay Sheehan
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Bryan Runion, Jay Sheehan
  • Show Website
    Backstage Banter