The Production Channel Podcast

Kenny Banning started his childhood off on somewhat of a dark path, but he found Christ and changed before it was too late. His curiosity and goofball antics, which lead to some not so smart decisions, were later channeled toward something a little less explosive.

Currently, Chief Engineer in Charge for live event productions as a freelancer, Kenny Banning started in theatre and theme parks. He moved TBN (The Christian Broadcast Network) before becoming one of the most sought after engineers in the concert and live event production industry.

The Production Channel presents Banning, as a self-proclaimed “nerdy guy”, who overcame a troubled and mischievous childhood. He shares stories of sendin

g his brother to the emergency room and being arrested for making a “bomb” and taking it to class in high school. He found purpose after those “terrible and really stupid” ordeals by finding his passion, always asking questions and wanting to be a light instead of a dark detractor.

With his background at TBN, his faith is strong. Despite a negative past, Kenny Banning does not have trouble staying positive and out of trouble these days. Even during long touring trips, especially while in Vegas, away from his family for months, he occupies his time ministering to the homeless and anyone willing to listen. Banning and Harrod are a classic interview, one that touches past, present, family, faith, consciousness and comedy; among the many tales and words of advice, Banning admonishes to “…always eat breakfast, especially show bacon.”

Lesroy Louard, 36 and a graduate of Florida State University, can best be described as a visual thrill seeker and story-teller. With 18 years of experience in the world of production as a videographer, writer, and editor, Lesroy is also an aspiring filmmaker. He never shies away from the opportunity to chase a new challenge and expand his skill set. Lesroy has previously done this with several corporate marketing companies, the NBA, and many major cable networks. As a growing producer/writer, Lesroy derives most of his inspiration from classic cinema, music and pop culture.  He adds, “I enjoy the use of word, sight and sound to evoke emotion and convey powerful messaging.”

Life is all about the right place, and the right time. Robert Permenter’s timing has allowed him to

Lesroy Louard, 36 and a graduate of Florida State University, can best be described as a visual thrill seeker and story-teller. With 18 years of experience in the world of production as a videographer, writer, and editor, Lesroy is also an aspiring filmmaker. He never shies away from the opportunity to chase a new challenge and expand his skill set. Lesroy has previously done this with several corporate marketing companies, the NBA, and many major cable networks. As a growing producer/writer, Lesroy derives most of his inspiration from classic cinema, music and pop culture.  He adds, “I enjoy the use of word, sight and sound to evoke emotion and convey powerful messaging.”

The Production Channel invites you to attentively soak up the humble beginnings of Drew Lawless, the Live Event Graphics, ARS (Audience Response Systems), and Tele-prompting guru. “I built my website, and it became official. We were in business!” exclaimed Lawless, as he shared with Clem Harrod, about his journey.

Seemingly astounded at the breadth and reach of his career, Drew Lawless has never been satisfied with just one thing. Until that one thing became live events and production. “In 2008 [after 20 years], I said ‘wow’, this turned into a career! I did not mean for this to happen.”

Lawless explains how he began. Scratching and clawing to find his place in the professional world, his finance degree led him to a path that many would have dreamed of. As a financial analyst for Odessa Corporation in his hometown of Indianapolis, the days and hours could not move fast enough. Lawless moved to Orlando where his freelance career was born, and Taylor Events soon thereafter; somewhat mistakenly, became a success.

In this episode, learn some of the key technologies used in the live event graphics and tele-prompting arenas. Absorb the secret to Drew’s networking and connection-making that land frequent high end gigs. From music DJ at Church Street Station, to loading trucks filled with AV equipment for $10/hour, Drew Lawless found and grasped his passion somewhere in between and 20 plus years later, he has not let go.

Lesroy Louard, 36 and a graduate of Florida State University, can best be described as a visual thrill seeker and story-teller. With 18 years of experience in the world of production as a videographer, writer, and editor, Lesroy is also an aspiring filmmaker. He never shies away from the opportunity to chase a new challenge and expand his skill set. Lesroy has previously done this with several corporate marketing companies, the NBA, and many major cable networks. As a growing producer/writer, Lesroy derives most of his inspiration from classic cinema, music and pop culture.

He adds, “I enjoy the use of word, sight and sound to evoke emotion and convey powerful messaging.”

Many successful people who work in the Live Event Production Industry find themselves with the ability to hyper focus and achieve greatness in the area of their gift. From engineers to content creators, tapping into one’s talents can help you understand how, and why, it is you do the things that you do.

Short of enrolling into the X-Men school for the gifted with Professor Xavier, you can locate Sarah Meers and allow her to assess your personality; then, equip you with the tools to thrive in the world as a high IQ individual.

Professionally, a gifted coach and mentor, Sarah Meers, analyzes the gifted brain among children and adults. After initial dialogue and testing, she offers strategies to capitalize on brain activity, turning weaknesses into positives and provide balanced interaction and stimulation in your daily life.

Clem Harrod, an expert in video production and lighting [laughter], mistakenly titled by Sarah before being corrected as a “Video Projectionist”; was the subject of an on the spot bar graph assessment by Meers.  This jovial exchange, albeit hypothetical, allowed us to see the exchange between Coach and Patient.  Meers lists the daily tasks and attributes of a gifted and hyper focused Harrod…“Projection Talent – 9, Home life/taking care of the kids – 5, Communication to others/spouse – 2, Communication to himself – 10”, and so on. Meers, establishes that the gifted brain is often hyper focused and two deviations (15 points) above 100.

In Harrod’s on the fly assessment, we see that “the gifted brain is typically very strong in one or a few areas, but weaker in others where you are not the expert” says Meers.  To combat these barriers, she promotes self assessment and implements a strategy that allows you to cope with daily tasks and frustration, improve time management, and stimulate executive brain function.Whether on the job, or in your family life, we all care to be fulfilled.

Even if not high IQ, the stress of day to day interaction can build, and expert coaches like Sarah Meers have the tools to bring everything into focus.

“You have to know yourself, and what your cues are when deciding to take a break.”

In this podcast discussion, the identifying of gifted traits, promotion of work-life balance, handling emotion and recognizing when the brain needs a break are the key takeaways.  Take a listen to find out some of the terrific ways Meers achieves optimal performance for herself and her patients.

Lesroy Louard, 36 and a graduate of Florida State University, can best be described as a visual thrill seeker and story-teller. With 18 years of experience in the world of production as a videographer, writer, and editor, Lesroy is also an aspiring filmmaker. He never shies away from the opportunity to chase a new challenge and expand his skill set. Lesroy has previously done this with several corporate marketing companies, the NBA, and many major cable networks. As a growing producer/writer, Lesroy derives most of his inspiration from classic cinema, music and pop culture.

He adds, “I enjoy the use of word, sight and sound to evoke emotion and convey powerful messaging.”

Union member since the age of 17, Miki, is ecstatic for the life afforded to him by the Stagehand Labor Union, the Local 720 in Vegas. It was reluctantly, that he joined, at the coaxing of his father; initially with no skill or desire to become a Stagehand. Music was his real passion, and his monetary vice. Taking jobs just to support his band and his auditory addiction, it would be a few years before he took the Union’s offerings seriously.

In 2002, Rosta dove into his career; lighting, and rigging, became his passions. Now a local HTD – lead manager, Rosta explains, “As you find your niche, you start moving into that sector, and as you impress the crews you’re working with, you will get more work”. He’s now responsible for putting teams together and assigning jobs for various clients that the union represents.

In this episode of the Podcast Channel, Miki Rosta elaborates on the benefits of becoming a union member. “…full benefits, health insurance, retirement plans,” are just a few praises Miki divulges, on top of great hourly wages.

In this conversation we learn the duties and different sectors stagehands can specialize in. Among them – lighting, audio, video, projection, and rigging. “They know their stuff, and often times know the building or venue better than we ever could,” Clem Harrod attests, “…having local union help, is often convenient and time saving.”

We invite you to dig deeper and hear more about the Labor Union industry through the mind and experience of Miki Rosta, “…it’s like riding a bull, I love it – its one hell of a ride!”

The production industry, is seemingly broad and daunting to navigate. At times you just need an inside connection, to land that perfect gig, or steer you in the right direction.This podcast equips you, as an independent contractor with the tools necessary to keep your pockets, and your health in a positive direction.

Say hello, to Jessica Straw, a seasoned health insurance sales advisor, “I enjoy helping people. I enjoy being a problem solver, and helping them make the right choices.”

Jessica Straw sits down with the entertainingly probing Clem Harrod to discuss the advantages of hiring an advisor. Straw explains her process, as identifying any unique situations such as children, existing health conditions, and frequency of visits; then, locating the appropriate plan that’s most suitable for your location, your finances and your health future.

“You never know when the unexpected can happen”, Jessica states. She prefers finding insurance plans with premiums in the middle ground – “It is a safer bet, based on fluctuation of income and in case of an unexpected accident.”The time spent with Straw, you will learn about medical bankruptcy, pitfalls of no insurance and that a nationwide Preferred Provider Organization, or PPO, is a traveling independent contractor’s best choice. PPOs are less restrictive and plans can be accessed in most states.

The discussion on health insurance plans, benefits and the fine print can be exhaustive. These tools and resources hopefully allow for wise future decisions. Straw advises to always look at the big picture. Many families are overpaying for coverage and not using the benefits accessible to them, “that’s where I come in”, Jessica confidently states.

As a self proclaimed expert in her field, Straw adores her career. Though the industry found her by chance when she was recruited by a company in Tampa FL, landing this opportunity allows Jessica to feel complete. Let Jessica Straw help completely inform you and possibly aid in your health insurance policy search.

In this 2 Part Private Channel podcast episode, Clem Harrod sits down with Niedre Hines; in what could be portrayed as “the insider” releasing “hidden” healthcare secrets.

As a healthcare resolution analyst, Hines provides understanding for claims and disputes, and de-escalates situations that are typically intense and frustrating for the patient. She has seen every pitfall, every complaint and knows how to avoid them.

Working her way up from the mailroom to executive status, Niedre Hines not only teaches and explains from a place of knowledge, but from personal experience. Sharing how choosing a healthcare plan based on affordability and not reading through the protection coverages is one of her worst healthcare decisions.

With 17 years in the Healthcare industry, Hines implores education is key and that “familiarizing and educating yourself on your certificates of coverage” in your health plan is imperative, to not fall victim in time of need. We all know that healthcare can be confusing. After all, it is a money making business and the healthcare industry wants to protect their pockets most importantly. “Choose comfortable deductibles, identify in-network doctors, take advantage of free offerings and preventative health screenings”; are ways to use insurance plans to your full benefit, Hines explains.

This informative discussion goes on to break down the differences between PPO and HMO, the functionality of the Affordable Care Act, advice on how to use recorded customer service interaction to your benefit, and so much more.

As an independent contractor you will find an abundance of information that will safeguard your pockets, and give peace of mind when facing healthcare industry decisions. Explore the knowledge base of Niedre Hines in this 2 part conversation.

In this 2 Part Private Channel podcast episode, Clem Harrod sits down with Niedre Hines; in what could be portrayed as “the insider” releasing “hidden” healthcare secrets.

As a healthcare resolution analyst, Hines provides understanding for claims and disputes, and de-escalates situations that are typically intense and frustrating for the patient. She has seen every pitfall, every complaint and knows how to avoid them.

Working her way up from the mailroom to executive status, Niedre Hines not only teaches and explains from a place of knowledge, but from personal experience. Sharing how choosing a healthcare plan based on affordability and not reading through the protection coverages is one of her worst healthcare decisions.

With 17 years in the Healthcare industry, Hines implores education is key and that “familiarizing and educating yourself on your certificates of coverage” in your health plan is imperative, to not fall victim in time of need. We all know that healthcare can be confusing. After all, it is a money making business and the healthcare industry wants to protect their pockets most importantly. “Choose comfortable deductibles, identify in-network doctors, take advantage of free offerings and preventative health screenings”; are ways to use insurance plans to your full benefit, Hines explains.

This informative discussion goes on to break down the differences between PPO and HMO, the functionality of the Affordable Care Act, advice on how to use recorded customer service interaction to your benefit, and so much more.

As an independent contractor you will find an abundance of information that will safeguard your pockets, and give peace of mind when facing healthcare industry decisions. Explore the knowledge base of Niedre Hines in this 2 part conversation.

The production industry, is seemingly broad and daunting to navigate. At times you just need an inside connection, to land that perfect gig, or steer you in the right direction.This podcast equips you, as an independent contractor with the tools necessary to keep your pockets, and your health in a positive direction.

Say hello, to Jessica Straw, a seasoned health insurance sales advisor, “I enjoy helping people. I enjoy being a problem solver, and helping them make the right choices.”

Jessica Straw sits down with the entertainingly probing Clem Harrod to discuss the advantages of hiring an advisor. Straw explains her process, as identifying any unique situations such as children, existing health conditions, and frequency of visits; then, locating the appropriate plan that’s most suitable for your location, your finances and your health future.

“You never know when the unexpected can happen”, Jessica states. She prefers finding insurance plans with premiums in the middle ground – “It is a safer bet, based on fluctuation of income and in case of an unexpected accident.”The time spent with Straw, you will learn about medical bankruptcy, pitfalls of no insurance and that a nationwide Preferred Provider Organization, or PPO, is a traveling independent contractor’s best choice. PPOs are less restrictive and plans can be accessed in most states.

The discussion on health insurance plans, benefits and the fine print can be exhaustive. These tools and resources hopefully allow for wise future decisions. Straw advises to always look at the big picture. Many families are overpaying for coverage and not using the benefits accessible to them, “that’s where I come in”, Jessica confidently states.

As a self proclaimed expert in her field, Straw adores her career. Though the industry found her by chance when she was recruited by a company in Tampa FL, landing this opportunity allows Jessica to feel complete. Let Jessica Straw help completely inform you and possibly aid in your health insurance policy search.

Roger  Desmond,  Technical  Director  and  Staging  Supervisor,  momentarily  takes  us  on  the journey  of  how  he  landed  his  dream  career:  Wicked  (New  York),  The  Phantom  of  the  Opera (New  York),  NBC’s  The  Sound  of  Music  and  The  Whiz  live.    He  is  the  unsung  hero  of  a  handful of  your  favorite  broadway  and  television  productions.  Desmond  recounts  how  the  industry  has made  him  feel  like  “the  luckiest  man  alive.”

It  began  in  high  school.  A  scheduling  error  landed  Desmond  into  “Technical  Theater”  instead  of “Woodshop”.  His  patient  and  receptive  demeanor  gave  the  mistake  a  two  weeks  chance  to  be resolved;  however,  he  found  a  passion  and  interest  in  staging  and  production.  Remaining  in that  high  school  class  as  well  as  enrolling  in  Technical  Theater  at  Stevens  College  Missouri, Desmond’s  relationships  in  the  industry  matured;  and  with  experience  and  networking,  so  did his  obsession  with  delivering  a  successful  product. 

Recognized  for  strong  work  ethic  and  attention  to  detail,  Roger  Desmond  was  recruited  to work  on  several  large  broadway  productions.  After  a  college  colleague  connected  him  with  the marketing  production  company  George  P.  Johnson,  he  fostered  relationships  and  was introduced  to  various  network  directors,  who  would  also  be  smitten  by  his  talent.  Desmond credits  “putting  my  best  foot  forward  on  every  job,  learning  vector  work  and  drafting,  and staying  three  steps  ahead”  as  his  keys  to  making  successful  impressions.

With  New  York  Broadway,  NBC,  MTV,  and  PetCo  Park  San  Diego  on  his  resume,  Desmond  is no  stranger  to  spotlight  and  pressure  situations.  He  describes  the  duties  of  a  Technical Director/Staging  Supervisor  as  a  dual  meaning,  depending  on  the  corporate  or  broadcast sectors.    In  the  corporate  sector,  his  position  as  Technical  Director  is  to  make  sure  that  all technical  needs  are  met  for  a  production,  assuring  that  equipment  and  labor  needs  are accurate  to  execute  a  seamless  AV  experience.  In  the  broadcast  sector,  Desmond  is  titled Staging  Supervisor. Offering  setup  suggestions,  loading  and  unloading  of  set  pieces  and managing  the  crew  and  equipment;  he  works  closely  with  the  technical  manager  to  execute  the broadcasts  live  visual  flow.

Desmond  laments  on  the  pitfalls  of  coordinating  sometimes  ten,  sometimes  sixty  semi  trucks  in San  Diego,  or  even  tougher,  Times  Square  New  York.  These  semi  trucks  are  vital  to  every  live production,  as  they  hold  the  sets,  lighting,  LED  boards  and  so  much  more.    He  credits  a positive  attitude,  staying  three  steps  ahead,  and  managing  relationships  that  allow  for  pulling off the  most  strenuous  of  situations. 

The  use  of  automated  software  wenches,  a  program  popularized  and  perfected  by  PRG Scenic,  is  widely  endorsed  by  Desmond.  After  studying  and  completing  courses  in  vector  work and  drawings,  he  began  to  understand  the  need  for  accuracy  and  the  benefit  of  software  in collaboration  with  a  producers’  visual  dreams.  Through  applying  real  work  knowledge  of  his course  work,  and  imparting  his  broadway  background,  Desmond  implemented  this  intelligence into  his  staging  and  pitching,  suggesting  a  cost  effective  alternative  to  NBC  executives.  The use  of  automated  wenches  during  the  live  NBC  production  of  The  Whiz  was  a  hit,  and  created a  seamless  visual  spectacle  –  his  favorite  production  to  date.

When  not  executing  and  elevating  his  work  standards,  whether  broadway  or  live  television, Roger  Desmond  ironically,  very  much  enjoys  retreating  to  the  very  thing  that  he  wanted  to  do originally  –  wood  shop.    Perfecting  shelves  and  building  simple  sculptures  allow  him  to  relax and  keep  things  in  perspective. Sometimes  life  steers  you  in  a  unexpected  direction  of  which  you  may  be  grateful  all  the  same. Follow  your  dreams,  but  be  open  to  life’s  detours;  perhaps  like  Desmond,  you  too  can  feel  like the  luckiest  of  anyone  alive.