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For 16 years, one Erie, PA event has run on autopilot. Same layout. Same flow. Same problems. And according to the organizer, there’s no need to change a thing because “it works.”

In this episode of The American Hustle, Jeff shares his firsthand experience attending the event and why he walked away frustrated, disappointed, and convinced that complacent leadership is holding it back from being truly great. We dig into what happens when tradition becomes an excuse instead of a foundation, and how “good enough” thinking can quietly undermine safety, experience, and community impact.

This episode was originally held back out of respect for a tragic accident that occurred during the event. Jeff discusses the incident in the episode before he knew the heartbreaking outcome. Our deepest condolences go to the family affected.

Listener Discretion Advised:
Specific event details and the Erie, PA location are mentioned. No names or personal identities are shared, and the circumstances of the individual involved are not the focus of this episode’s critique.

If you care about leadership, event planning, community responsibility, and the dangers of “we’ve always done it this way”...this one’s worth the listen.