We're on location in Madison, Wisconsin. Robert Copley was kind enough to give us a tour of Event Essentials. The business is celebrated 70 years of operation in 2024 and recently hosted an ARA of IL/ARA of WI event. We had a blast and you're definitely going to want to check it out on YouTube!

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Tents & Clear Spans. Visit www.anchorinc.com to learn more.

Kyle and Nate discuss The ARA Show and ARA's Safe Tenting Standard with guest Bryan Bolt. Bryan talks about new live training programs, safety initiatives, and the launch of a new Safe Tenting website aimed at improving resources for the tent industry. The guys talk about the need for a strong safety culture, and the introduction of innovative tools like the Ground Testing Tool. Bryan also highlights the significance of engaging the next generation of installers and the role of certification in enhancing industry standards.

Check out SafeTenting.com to follow along and reach out to Bryan Bolt if you're interested in participating in the Safe Tenting Standard. 

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Tents & Clear Spans. Visit www.anchorinc.com to learn more.

We made it to Madison! This podcast was part of a live event hosted by the ARA of IL and ARA of WI and we're joined by Robert Copley, Event Essentials, and Sean Williams, First Place Rental. We talk about the inception of the podcast, give a sneak peek of the Event Essentials warehouse, and more.  

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries. Learn more at www.anchorinc.com.

Nate and Kyle have finally made it back home from ATA in Florida and Event Essentials in Madison for an ARA of IL and ARA of WI event. They give you the highlights of the shows, the culture and morale at Event Essentials, and the importance of industry engagement through live shows. They also share emotional moments from the events, what to look forward to at The ARA Show, and more.  

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Tents & Clear Spans. Learn more at www.anchorinc.com.

Kyle and Nate talked with James Auerbach, Chief Revenue Officer of Salem Sports Events, a seasoned professional in the event industry with more than 25 years of experience. James discusses the impact of private equity and what makes sales teams succeed or fail. He emphasizes the need for a positive company culture, the significance of aligning sales and operations, and the future hurdles the industry may encounter. James also talks about the new consumer landscape and the importance of maintaining the value of specialized products in the event rental market.

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries, learn more at www.anchorinc.com.

This episode Nate and Kyle talk all about the H2B visa program, its significance in addressing labor shortages, particularly in the event industry, and the application process. Tom Bortnyk, Senior Vice President and General Counsel for masLabor, explains the differences between H1B and H2B visas, the misconceptions surrounding H2B labor costs, and the importance of this labor in various national markets (seafood, resorts, events, etc.). The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by increasing costs, the need for cap relief, and the responsibilities of employers in the H2B program. Tom offers valuable advice for first-time H2B employers, emphasizing the importance of education and planning. 

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries. Learn more at www.anchorinc.com

Kyle and Nate are pumped for the new year! They're headed to Florida for ATA, Madison, Wisconsin for an ARA of IL/ARA of WI event, and then back to Florida for The ARA Show. In this episode they talk about wedding trends of 2026, the impact of educational institutions on business, and why there is so much last-minute planning. The conversation shifts to reusing carpet - yay or nay, vinyl's post-COVID dilemma, black turf, and how to cut overtime. The guys emphasize the role of technology in enhancing operational efficiency and the need to be intentional as a manager in 2026.  

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries. Learn more at www.anchorinc.com.

Kyle and Nate chat with Jared Nigro, the owner of Evo Tents, about his journey in the event rental industry. Jared shares insights on starting his business, navigating the challenges of the pandemic, and the importance of marketing and team dynamics. He discusses the growth of his company, the challenges of managing backyard weddings, and his aspirations for the future. The conversation highlights the significance of building a strong brand, effective payment terms, and the need for efficiency in operations.  

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries. You can learn more at www.anchorinc.com.

Nate and Kyle reflect on the past season, discussing personal updates, team dynamics, and the challenges faced throughout the year. They highlight the importance of employee management, the busiest times of the year, and notable projects that stood out. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in improving efficiency, the significance of acknowledging team contributions, and the ongoing struggle for work-life balance. As they wrap up the season, they share their thoughts on future plans and improvements, emphasizing the need for personal growth alongside professional development.

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries. You can learn more at www.anchorinc.com.

Kyle and Nate welcome Elizabeth Flake, founder and creative director of Elizabeth Flake Events. Elizabeth shares her journey into event planning, the challenges of managing client expectations in a social media-driven world, and the importance of collaboration with rental companies. She discusses the realities of event planning, the significance of tenting and rentals, and the trends shaping the industry. Elizabeth emphasizes the need for high standards and effective communication in the planning process, providing valuable insights for both clients and vendors.

This episode is brought to you by Anchor Industries, Inc. Learn more at www.anchorinc.com