The Tailgate Entertainer | Performers | Performance Business | Creatives | Artists | Talent Buyers

With the zest and sweetness of a pineapple, grace of a dolphin, and jokes as great as your Dad's, Sara will whisk you away to the best vacation / most thrilling circus show you have ever experienced!

25 years as a street performer has given Groovy Guy an individual style and strategy!  He will leave you with plenty of wisdom, some great tips and memorable stories. 

Bounce on in and listen to a group of trailblazers in the entertainment industry!  The ups and downs of creating a show with nothing but raw talent and pogo sticks!

Known for his many faces, voices and props, Bill Robison sets a standard in physical comedy performance.  Truly....an industry icon.  

Peace, unity, love and having fun is what Street Breakz brings to their audience through hip hop, acrobatics, and comedy!

A fascinating journey through Kimi's life, full of stories and wisdom. Her dedication and valuable contribution to the fair industry stems from years of amazing experiences under vastly different circumstances.          

Technically skilled, highly proficient, and amazingly smooth! Jeremiah drops a ton of tips about performing in the fair business, marketing, and life in general. Don't miss the stories about California, the box of juggling props in the attic....and rugs!          

Kenny Ahern shares stories about his career as a clown, a little wisdom from his life and even some laundry tips!  

Complete creatives, master makers, the whole artistic package! Learn from the best of the best-Mango & Dango!

It's the little things a person does and the little things a person doesn't do that make all the difference when it comes to being successful in the fair industry.  

Kicking off season three of Tailgate Entertainer and what the exciting lineup looks like.  (NOTE:  All recordings were done pre-pandemic)

In this episode, twelve professionals in the fair industry talk about their experience of living through the destruction that Covid 19 has caused.  What has happened to our industry and what needs to happen to get things back on track.  Great stories, wisdom and insight.  

Creating a concrete platform in a saturated market is no easy task. In order to do so, you have to be innovative and original, two characteristics that perfectly describe Robert Smith. Robert Smith is a magician and creative content speaker who struggled to find his way into the fair industry until doing exactly the opposite of everyone else, staying inside the box. Robert Smith is most recognized for his fortune-telling act, which has come to be known as the Conjurer Fortune Machine. Check out this episode of Tailgate Entertainer with Alan Bruess and Eric Haines if you’re interested in learning how to adapt and expand your own creative career.  Show Highlights: Starting street magic Recognizing the pivot point in a career Figuring out how to live with a disease The importance of reaching out Getting buyers attention Becoming the conjurer Creating a unique way to perform in a saturated market Trusting the audience Organically developing an act Explaining a nontraditional career to others Training people in your profession Expanding a personal act and avoiding stealing ideas Only working jobs that fit your brand Building relationships Changing how you perceive no The drive behind creating content and marketing Using social media to provide value Building equity with the community Resources: Art To Market All social media handles: @meetrobertsmith Podcast: Fair Game Meet Robert Smith Robert Smith Presents

Finding your passion can be difficult especially if it isn’t a traditional path but Greg Frisbee always knew he wanted to perform. Overcoming his shyness and fear of failure, Greg took a leap of faith and has become an incredible juggler and comedian. He has performed in all 50 states, over 30 countries, and does over 300 shows a year. His show is fun, goofy, and creates a family-friendly environment for everyone to enjoy. Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer with Alan Bruess and Eric Haines to hear more about how Greg utilized obstacles to establish his career. Show Highlights: Taking the plunge as a full-time performer Marketing to fairs Breaking news to close family The journey of establishing a show Struggles with putting a show together Trial and error The importance of treating others with respect How a performance can be a form of meditation Being present in the moment Struggling with being insecure as a performer Alternative pursuits if performing fails Creating healthy relationships with fair managers Not taking work personally Being in tune with the crowd and creating a magical atmosphere Finding human connection through travel Accepting people for who they are Utilizing skills from worldly experiences How performing effects those closest to you Resources: Bring Your Art To Market The Rubber Chicken Show Frisbee Show

The fair industry has some jaw-dropping and mind baffling acts but some acts set the bar higher than others. Marco Landín and Heather Hyde de Landin are creative and talented performers. From costumes to technique, this power couple has raised the bar for all stilt walkers and performers. Their acts are exotic and bring a sense of newness through their full fire performances and stilt creatures. They have perfected the art of embodying whimsical characters and creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Join Alan Bruess and Eric Haines in this episode of Tailgate Entertainer to learn more about creating a magical world.  Show Highlights: Being introduced to variety entertainment  Sharing the miracle of newness  Bringing something new to the table  Creating art to be proud of  Being an influencer through personal art  Creating opportunities for others  Finding ways to speak without words  Design techniques and creating unique shows  Creating blueprints and refining details  Finding balance  How passion pushes you forward  Building a bubble of wonder  Resources: Dream City Vegas Macro Landin Art To Market

Alex Zerbe has been performing for more than 15 years. He is a master of physical comedy, juggling, and magic. Alex is known as “The Zaniac” which was an idea from his wife. Many love his high energy throughout his performances and his super kind soul, and intelligence. He is a two-time Guinness World Record holder who was voted Seattle's Funniest Prop Comic. He performs in fairs, schools and special events. He is a fantastic entertainer and loves his job as an entertainer. More in this episode: Physical issues that can be challenging in his performances in the future. The First Fair that he worked at. Lessons that he learned during his first fair job. Advice he would give about working in the fair industry. How has his marriage dealt with all the traveling associated with performing? How much he loves his job and performing. He would love to mentor and help other entertainers Where he goes for mentoring and guidance? When and how he began performing. Some of his beats! Resources Mentioned in the Show: Art To Market Tailgate Entertainer Podcast 1,001 Tips on Practicing, Perfecting and Performing Your Act: For Jugglers and other Variety Artists Entertainers by Daniel Holzman Alex Zerbe The Zaniac

For many performers, the circus has been a way of life for as long as they can remember. Ivan España is a fifth-generation circus performer and is currently creating and performing in shows with his wife Allison. They both have a heart and passion for the industry and dedicate a surplus of hard work and time to each and every show. Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer to hear more about their journey and their current production, The Great Mr. Swindles Peculiarity. The Great Mr. Swindle’s Traveling Peculiarium and Drink-Ory Garden is an original production by Salto Entertainment of Englewood, an entertainment group with a decade of live family entertainment production experience. Salto Entertainment’s production and performance credits include the motorcycle madness of Moto Maniacs, the aerial antics and death-defying stunts of the steampunk-themed production FLIPPIN, and co-producers of CIRQUESA – Dream Quest, a journey of self-discovery as told through circus artistry. Salto Entertainment is owned and operated by Allison Blei and Ivan España, whose family was recently inducted to the Circus ‘Ring of Fame’ in Sarasota’s St. Armand’s circle marking their significant contributions to the art and culture of circus amongst many other incredible icons such as P.T. Barnum and The Ringling Bros. Show Highlights: Growing up in a family of entertainers Acrobatics and the skywheel Giving people memorable performances Challenges with bringing an entire circus act to a fairground Motivating factors Creating shows you create Transitioning from conventions to the fair Word of mouth marketing Individualism and putting in your entire heart Fears and difficult circumstances Tips for going the circus direction Love for entertaining the audience Resources Mentioned: bringyourarttomarket.com saltoent.com Mr. Swindle's Traveling Peculiarium

Building and creating a unique act is a major accomplishment but it is even more valuable when you get to perform with a close friend. Illusionist Adam The Great and Tyzen The Comedy Hypnotist, also known as the Show Bros™, are two close friends who have established a remarkable show together and continue to create innovative material. Combining two great talents with amazing shows on their own, they have created an amazing new show, called The Show Bros™, which highlights the best of both shows. In this episode, we go behind the scenes and find out the origins of this synergistic show.  The unique thing about this show is that Tyzen and Adam actually perform together - this combination of talents is compelling entertainment! The show is still very new, but is already getting rave reviews and is destined to be one of the greats! Show Highlights: Making connections through the fair Being a role model for children Maintaining a friendship through working together The challenges of marketing for a theatre Issues behind the scenes - it’s not all roses! Getting advice from close advisors Fine tuning productions Setting boundaries and legal parameters Getting started in magic Transitioning into a full-time fair career Being innovative and coming up with new acts Being patient Having fun with your own work Plagiarism within the industry Learning to write originally Performing your best for every crowd Charging what you’re worth Discovering careers outside of the entertainment industry Resources Mentioned: Pacific Animal Productions Adam the Great Tyzen

There is a surplus of talent, acts, and shows in the fair industry. Many of the performances have been around for hundreds of years, but some of them recently have sprung and become popular over the last few decades. Tom Sailor has invented and innovated multiple aspects of the fair industry and currently works with Winter Set Concert Events. He has years of experience and insight on the fair industry that is unique to his creative perspective. Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer with your hosts, Alan Bruess and Eric Haines, if you’re interested in how to break through the industry and taking risks. How life led Tom into the fair industry Belly Bucking The birth of male strippers Women’s mud wrestling Taking mud wrestling to fairs Creating a bungee diving show The biggest competition in the fair industry What the industry is missing Thinking outside of the box Areas that lack talent and room for opportunity The importance of a personal relationship Breaking through into the industry Not comparing your act to others Always putting on your best show Links: Art To Market

Anyone can be a performer, but only hard-working and dedicated individuals become a great performer. It takes many years and lots of practice to establish a name and create a timeless act, which is why not many people make it as a full-time entertainer. Todd Victor has been a full-time entertainer for over 30 years and has created beautiful stages to host various acts, he coaches entertainers, and has established a successful mentoring program to boost other performers. Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer with Alan Bruess and Eric Haines to see how you can bring your art to market and take the next steps to improve your performance.    Show Highlights: Moments that led up to being in the fair industry  Giving advice to yourself in the past  Taking care of yourself and being innovative  Adjusting the show to fit where you’re at in life  Reducing wear on your body  What needs the fair-grounds can provide for performers Pros and cons of working with your spouse How unique makeup affects business  Formula for traveling  How to adapt shows to stay relevant  Bringing art to a marketplace and making a living off it  Taking classes for various skills  Hiring advisors to direct and critique acts  Practicing to fine tune skills  Emphasizing being a great performer  Finding the balance between work and home life  Getting the most out of your time and making connections  Working hard to maintain trust and make others shows successful  Resources:   Arttomarket.info

The entertainment industry is full of unique and incredible people. There are so many innovative and remarkable acts and the people are equally as intricate. Many of these performers are simply doing what they love and also enjoy having the opportunity to bring a smile to others faces, and one of those people is Dennis Lee. Dennis is an overwhelmingly kind individual with a heart for making people happy. He is the founder of The Dennis Lee Show and continues to bring enticing acts to fairs across the country. Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer with Alan Bruess and Eric Haines to hear more about Dennis Lee’s story.  Show Highlights: Highlights of Dennis Lee’s life before the fair industry  Feelings from the first time performing  Changing the fair from a hobby to a job  How traveling affects family life  Making your show unique  The importance of building a network  Impacting people’s lives  Getting kids involved and giving them the opportunity to shine  Having the ability to make people smile and pull energy from within  Influencers in the industry  Making a sincere show  What is missing in entertainment     

While the fair industry is continuously growing and adapting, and continues to evolve since the early days of live entertainment. Michelangelo Nock, owner of The Nerveless Nocks Inc., and his family have been innovating the industry since before 1850.    Michelangelo Nock has a plethora of insight and knowledge about the industry, due to his unique experience growing up in a performing family. He comes from a family that has been performing in the circus and entertainment industry for more than 9 generations. Performing is in his DNA! This interview is full of history, versatility, and insight on staying relevant in the circus industry. Live performance continues to evolve and the Nock family is evolving too! Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer with your hosts, Alan Bruess and Eric Haines, to learn more about the impact the fair industry has made and how it has stayed current through generations.  Show Highlights: Pursuing the family business  How the swing pole came about  Roles being filled in the industry  Being versatile and incorporating training  Showing the audience entertainment they’ve never seen before  Getting involved with other businesses  Taking care of the grounds  Being influenced by successful businessmen  Being a team  Respecting people’s ideas  Staying current  Being creative and working in different fairs    Resources: nervelessnocks.com  http://pacificanimalproductions.com The Odd and Offbeat Podcast 

Kristen Johnson and Kevin Ridgeway are interviewed on the show today by Elisa Hayes, who knows all too well about life-changing accidents. Talk about people with phenomenal character! Today’s guests are two of the greatest people you will ever meet, and their story is inspiring! Kevin and Kristen are entertainers in a show called Lady Houdini, which is a show featuring escape-type routines. Kristen is known as Lady Houdini, and Kevin emcees the show. They do between 270-300 shows per year, and because their show is so physical, the two train vigorously in order to maintain top physical shape.    In January of 2016, Kristen and Kevin were in a horrible automobile accident. They had been stopped at a red light and proceeded when the light changed to green. A 17-year-old, texting while driving, blew through a red light and hit them on the driver’s side. It was at that moment their lives changed. Kristen says it was like the world stopped turning. Each of them sustained catastrophic injuries.    More in this episode:   Kevin and Kristen share details about their life-changing accident. Emotions run high because the two were taken to different hospitals. Tremendous body trauma Months of hospitalization and rehabilitation Doubts and fear turn to determination Kristen and Kevin describe their show and how/when their message shifted. Back to work with an empowering message for others Dedicating a show segment to speak about the dangers of distracted driving Grateful for the generosity of others Grateful to be able to continue to share their lives with each other.   Resources: Pacific Animal Productions, our sponsor/proceeds go to scholarship funding Lady Houdini website Lady Houdini’s Facebook page Ridgeway and Johnson Entertainment  Lady Houdini’s Instagram Page Elisa’s podcast, Letters To My Daughter

Very rarely are people presented with the opportunity to be born into their career and spend their life learning all aspects of their trade. Fortunately, Courtny Conkle did; she is the youngest female CEO in California and at the Lake County Fair in Northern California and has acquired a plethora of knowledge throughout her years.  Getting to learn different trades in the fair from a very young age has helped Courtny throughout her career and given her the insight to project her career forward. Courtny has been on both sides of the fair as a concessionaire as well as in management, so she really knows the fair from the ground up! Tune in to this episode of Tailgate Entertainer to hear all of the brilliant ideas Courtny has to share with your host and co-host, Alan Bruess and Eric Haines.  Show Highlights: Being born into the fair industry  Long-term goals for the fair industry  Contributing factors to becoming a fair manager  Areas that need re-adjustment  Building relationships in the community  Showing what you can accomplish  Eliminating old traditions  Bringing in entertainment that fits different demographics  Understanding the ripple effect   The importance of user-generated contact  Spending time advertising the right content  Relationships with younger vs older business people  Intertwining business with life  How people respond to the carnival stigma  Being able to empathize with all sides of the industry  Having people to mentor you  Internalizing what you’ve learned from others and how to apply it  Being a mentor and guide to others  How to suggest things to people that may help them  Coming into the fair industry knowing the industry Resources: This show is sponsored by Super Science Company! supersciencecompany.com  SaveSave

Not having a traditional career can make the balance between work and family difficult to juggle. In order to be successful in the Fair industry, you have to learn to balance your life while traveling, creating your audience, and still maintaining your personal life. Paul Isaak is a juggler and performer who has learned to not only juggle fire but learned to expertly juggle his career and his family. This episode of Tailgate Entertainer reveals angles of the fair industry that have never been seen. Tune in with your hosts Alan Bruess and Eric Haines to see how entertainers manage their families, make connections and still pursue their passions.    Show Highlights: How the fair industry differs from other industries  What performers think about on stage  Learning how to dissolve the barrier between the performer and the audience  What drives a performer to create their own act  Finding a community who understands your passions  Making connections and maintaining relationships with a traveling career  Balancing business and family  Taking your family on the road  Experiences like no other industry     Resources:   www.funnyjuggler.com/

We’re back with Season 2! It’s an entirely new season, so Alan here to catch you up on everything since Season 1 ended and also the exciting things in store for Season 2. In this first episode of Season 2, you also get introduced to a co-host, who is no stranger to Tailgate Entertainer fans!   The fair industry is an adventurous occupation that few people have insight into, but the Tailgate Entertainer brings you interviews with some of the most reputable performers in the Fair Industry. From acrobats to the youngest manager in the industry, to the inventor of women’s mud wrestling, the hosts Alan Bruess and Eric Haines will take you on a journey to explore every aspect of the fair industry. Tune into this episode of Tailgate Entertainer to see what this season has in store for you.    Show Highlights:   What Allen has been working on  Change in work  Who is coming in the next season  Shift and adapt  Couples, youngest manager in the fair industry, and the inventor of women’s mud wrestling  Sponsors  Creating Scholarships    Resources:   Eric’s Previous Episode Suggest ideas on where scholarships go: Tailgateentertainer@gmail.com 

Today's episode is an opportunity to have a few questions answered about the show, take a peek behind the scenes a little, and a chance for me to give some final thoughts about the importance of our industry.  A huge THANK YOU to all of the guests and listeners that have been a part of the adventure.   Reasons for producing the show. How the show is doing, how has it done? Is the show going to continue? Did I make any money podcasting? Any regrets producing the show? Biggest lesson learned producing the show. Most frustrating element.   Biggest mistake I made producing the show.  Why the fair industry is so important.  

 In this episode: Mat Wells - son of  Kim & Alan Barr Nathen Smith - son of Robert & Sara Smith Sarah Hays - daughter of  Steve & Elisa Hays Hayden Newman - daughter of Mike & Ryann Newman Chase Barton - son of  Tammy & Bryan Barton Brayden Bruess - son of  Alan & Renee Bruess  

You could operate a fair without a carnival, it might be less fun, but it is achievable. You could probably also run a fair without entertainment, but it isn’t advised. What you couldn’t host a fair without, is food vendors. Food vendors are the anchor of the fair. They are also some of the hardest working people, with a job that doesn’t guarantee a paycheck. For them, the risk is worth the reward. Tune in to today’s fast, food show to hear two of the fair’s best, Kim Barr and Daryl Whicheloe. Order’s up!   Kim & Alan Barr (Pacific Crest Concessions)   Investing in the food industry How has the industry changed in the last 30 years The amount of off time food vendors get Working and traveling Being invited back to the same fairs The importance of your presentation and operating Connections made with fair family Set up time Purpose of NICA Uniting concessioners and giving them a voice in their industry Fair commission Potential in the concession industry that people aren’t looking into The types of people in this industry

Pain and suffering are always topics pushed under the rug, but what people have failed to inform you is, oblivion is not bliss. Today we are going to sweep it all out from under the rug and hit the topics that are, more often than not, avoided. Feelings of self-worth, effects of tragic accidents, pride, the ICU, all topics that lack a sense of hope, but your guest, Elisa Hays, will hopefully leave you with an appreciation for life and hope in the virtue of humanity. Tune in with your host, Alan Bruess, for a taste of this bitter-sweet message.    Why people want to talk about their hurt  Defining your worth  Dehumanizing yourself in the ICU  ICU psychosis  Understanding and experiencing pain  Acknowledging pain instead of belittling it  Existing in a fundamental foundational level  The way pain changes the views of everyone around you  Finding reasons to laugh when bad things occur  How accidents change relationships  Reflecting on memories that impacted Elisa  How horrific accidents change your motivation  Living with a handicap  The disadvantages of living in a wheelchair  How accidents consume your life  The ripple effect of doing good for people      Elisahays.com Facebook: Elisa Hays   

Is this generation really evolving? Are we different than other generations due to technology? Or are we simply coming full circle with the advancements previous generations have put in place for us? After years of advancements, we are finally beginning to see the fruits of the internet. But, have these advancements brought us closer together? Or magnified our differences? Tune in while Kady Porterfield answers a few of these questions, and more, with your host, Alan Bruess.  Today, Alan and Kady Porterfield also discuss: How Kady became the head of the agriculture department and her history in the industry How to get millennials involved, engaged, and keep them there How this generation has grown up more diverse and open than any other generation The extreme advertisement of everyone being entitled or capable The importance of learning and asking questions The positive & negative effects of phones and social media Tips for older generations to relate and use to help the millennial generation The viability of the fair industry How to engage through social media Showcasing what people want to see but keeping the traditions The value and educational resources tied to the fair Figuring out how to bring urban kids or schools in general involved The importance of the fair Showcasing the culture of the community

Time, money, travel, and experiences are all a few things we have in common. In the fair industry, it takes a lot of investment in all of the following. But, a few special things about our guest today is his constant great spirits, his classy behavior, enthusiasm in his work, his amazing story, and the magic he puts into his work. Welcome balloon artist, Dennis Forel, with your tailgate entertainer, Alan Bruess.   Today, Alan and Dennis Forel also discuss: The inspiration that led to his career Where his career led with persistence Opportunities for balloon artists Putting together an original act Being rotated between people you work for Upholding your act and keeping your enthusiasm The importance of being versatile People can tell when you’re not being authentic You have to be diverse and unpredictable but reliable Why you should always go the extra mile Being part of the outreach you work for The difficulties of having a family while being in the fair Being honest about your circumstances with your employers Getting the courage to take the next step Stumbling into your career Mistakes in the business The vitality of building relationships Showing your commitment If you don’t match the theme, you won’t be hired   Gofundme.com and look up Kevin Ridgeway Balloonacy.com Dforel@dslextreme.com Phone number: 310-218-2629

Today's episode is different than our normal episodes. We have so many friends in California that are being affected by the evacuations for the Lake Oroville Dam, and the Fair Industry as a whole is stepping up to the plate to offer help. Today Alan talks with 3 different Fair Managers who have sprung into action to help anyone who has been displaced by this evacuation.  Listen to the episode to find out where to go if you are forced to evacuate!

With everything that’s been going on in today’s media, it’s easy to feel bombarded by the hate and negativity. It’s hard to say whether this is a new conflict, or if we’re simply becoming more in tune to the situation. Join your tailgate entertainer, Alan Bruess, on discussing this new topic that we all deal with on a regular basis and listen for ways you can improve this situation for yourself.  Alan also discusses:   A remedy for hate  The importance of expressing yourself  Art fuels the thirst for knowledge  The ways art is supposed to make you feel and influence  Will what you leave behind be remembered? How creating love for yourself creates love for others  Despite what is happening, you have to work for yourself  Broadcast what you stand for  If the situation around you is gnawing at your soul, do something about it  

Today, we are going to take a look at a new and exciting angle of the fair industry. We’ve ventured through many different aspects of vendors, managers, and various performing artists. Today, we are going to take a walk in the shoes of the person who finds all the talent to fill those slots. Accompany Alan Bruess as he exploring the world of a highly respected talent agent and business owner, Jerry Ross.  Listen as Alan and Jerry discuss:   The journey of starting a business How revenues work for artists with agents  The job and responsibilities of a talent agent  The problems of exclusivity when shows contact artists directly  The importance of having a trustworthy relationship with clients and agents  Agents are somewhat there to do the dirty work  What to do when clients contact acts directly and exclude the agent  The importance of setting ground rules  The ability to make a living decreases as inflation happens  What acts are increasing and declining The vitality of innovation  How to nourish and maintain good relationships  How to approach an agent  The hard work and tenacity needed to be successful  Why being yourself is important for an artist  Introducing yourself to the online industry    Connect with Jerry: Harmonyartists.com  

Just like every other industry, the fair industry is all about connections. But, the special thing about this industry is that everyone is willing to support and help one another. Now, who doesn’t want to participate in that?    Today we are going to listen to and learn from one of the fair industry’s greatest supporters and influencers. This will give you some personal insight and show you the relationships and strong bonds created in this field. Join your Tailgate Entertainer, Alan Bruess, while he interviews his long-time friend and impactful leader, Chris Whatley  Listen as Alan and Chris also discuss: His theater career shaped the course of him going into the fair industry  He built a robot that got him into the fair industry  He designed a set and used his creativity to get a show booked for fairs  Everything happens for a reason  Due to the fluctuation in business, the rug can be pulled right out from under you How to keep a group of people loyal and to go along with the journey  The difficulties of using real guns for the show in different states  The values and importance of the fair  The product you produce doesn’t matter if you present it poorly  The quality of your videos for the fair is vital for success  Communication skills are lacking in the youth  You have to be flexible      Links:    Lagniappeproductions.com  Facebook: Lagniappe Productions  

When people think of the fair, they think of all the exciting things in the spotlight. Sometimes we fail to notice all the things behind the scenes that make that excitement happen. All the hard work, planning, and orchestrating goes unnoticed. Today, take a look behind the scenes with our special guest Heather Hansen.   Today we are learning more from behind the scenes in the fair industry with lobbyist, Heather Hansen. People like Heather are vital to our industry, because without her, one of America’s favorite entertaining family events would not be possible. She currently lives in Columbia, Washington and over see’s legislation for the Washington State Fair Association.      In this episode Alan and Heather also discuss:     Her experience with 4H and how she became an agent  How fair funding works and it’s importance  Why is funding important if the fair is already bringing in so much money? Most of the time, money made by the fair goes to youth organizations New Legislatures often don’t have a background in the fair industry  It is important to invite legislatures to your fairs and keep them involved  Get to know your legislators because if they don’t know you, they can’t help you     LINKS:    Heather’s email: Heather@wafriends.org

The fair industry is typically stereotyped into a finite variety of things. Ranging from clowns, to corndogs, to cotton candy, to Ferris wheels. Join your Tailgate Entertainer, Allen Bruce, in digger deeper into exploring the entrepreneurship involved in the fair industry, with people like “The Gold Standard”.    “The Gold Standard” or Dianne Linderman, is a renowned business woman involved in fair industry. Dianne Linderman is a creative, innovative, entrepreneur, who has surrounded herself with likeminded people. This group of people team together to form “The Great American Entertainment Company”. Not only has she invested her time in this company, but she many other great accomplishments she has achieved throughout her lifetime.  She was a Counselor for troubled teens, owned a restaurant, built a million dollar company, owned a dozen businesses, started a publishing company, helped construct a school, wrote an award winning series of children’s books, married her best friend and raised two kids. She also has a podcast and radio show titled, “Everything that matters in life, parenting, and kitchen table politics”.    Alexandra, Dianne’s daughter, talks about the animal shows and the events she enjoys  Talks about the difficulties of moving around and the things she’s learned from it  Fairs bring the family back together Talks about the importance of working hard The biggest lesson she learned in 2016 was not to judge people Dianne Linderman talks about the problem with telling people they can only be successful with a diploma and treating everyone the same  People don’t know how to answer what they’re interested in  Took her love for children and animals to be involved in the fair industry  She started a roadside zoo and traveling petting zoo and used the animals to help troubled teens  Talks about the reasons why all of her businesses have succeeded  The benefits of raising children involved in the fair industry  The best place to open a business is next to a business of the same trade  Don’t ever spend your money on other people’s property  Your biggest lessons come from your failures, you can’t just do everything If you do not fulfill your yearning for what you want, you won’t be content    Links:      http://www.everythingthatmattersradio.com/   www.greatamericanpettingzoo.com  

Would you like to be more savvy about the best type of structure for your business? Or are you unsure about whether someone doing work for you is an employee or an independent contractor? If so, listen in to today's episode of Tailgate Entertainer with Alan Bruess, as he talks business with his knowledgeable guest, Thomas Rock Lindsay.   Thomas owns a company called Humanly HR. He has more than twenty years of experience working in a PEO (Professional Employer Organization), focusing on all aspects of workers compensation, risk management, loss control, employee benefits, HR and payroll. He also hosts a podcast called SmallBiz Brainiac. Thomas is a valuable resource you can turn to if you're trying to solve problems related to your business.     On today's show, Thomas will share about three topics which come up all the time in the fair industry:    Is someone an employee or a private contractor? Is your business structured properly for your needs? (i.e. sole proprietorship or incorporated) Business Insurance. Today, Alan and Thomas discuss: The huge fines levied by the IRS for treating an employee as a private contractor and how you can avoid this happening to you. How insurance and licensing play into the IRS's decision to fine or not. What could happen if someone is injured on the job while working as an independent contractor, without licensing or insurance? A test you can take to tell the difference between an employee and a private contractor- and where you would go to do that. Your exposure to liability due to your choice of business model- whether you should incorporate or not. The differences between an LLC, an S Corp and a C Corp. Where you can go to learn more about business structures. Partnerships in business- a good idea or not? How to know where to start with business insurance.   Links:   Thomas's website: www.smallbizbrainiac.com   Thomas's email:    tom@smallbizbrainiac.com   Alan's email:         tailgateentertainer@gmail.com   Resources:   Thomas's Podcasts: SmallBiz Brainiac (Note: Episodes 3 & 4 deal with the test relating to employee or private contractor) The Khan Academy: www.khanacademy.org

Today we are kicking off our last episode of 2016, it’s going to be a bit of a short one, but a good one. If you haven’t heard our show before, we are all about the fair industry. Also, here is a message to some of the fair boards, we asked on our Facebook what you all want to hear in 2017, so we’ll talk a little about that today and I also asked what your greatest lesson was in 2016. All of that will be captured in today’s show, glad you’re here with us.    Listen to the episode as Alan also discusses:   Get people who can bring you a fresh perspective and use younger people to get to the demographic you want to reach  God’s mercies are new every morning and each moment is a new moment to align your mind and will with God’s and the result is perfect peace  Never Assume  Don’t let perfection be the enemy of good  Read the sports page on the front of the newspaper so that you’re not a sports illiterate  There is always a way with the help of many  There are at least three sides to every story Cherish each moment spent with family and friends Try to put yourself in other people's shoes  Do not judge others  Being a professional entertainer is a team effort    Resources:   Tailgate Entertainer Facebook Group Know Grow Prepare Love Facebook Group             Resources:   

Welcome to my show everyone! Merry Christmas to you! Now, if you’ve never heard our show before, we are all about the fair industry. We don’t spend a lot of time talking about corn dogs or Ferris Wheels, even though those are two important parts. We spend most of our time talking about the amazing people involved, and that’s why I stay in it. I decided to make this episode a Christmas episode, but that doesn’t mean I’m leaving out all the people who celebrate in a different way.  We have a fantastic guest coming your way, and her name is Teddy Anne Cunningham. She is originally from Wyoming and lives there now with her husband and two kids. She has been playing at fairs for over 25 years, mostly with her brother Cal. They are both amazing artists. She told me a funny story about them growing up, she said they were “reluctant graduates of the wooden spoon youth movement program, under the supervision of Mama Lark Lindford”. Which kind of reminds me a bit of my mama as well. I love her story, plus, she is a strong woman of faith, has an angelic voice, loves her family, and loves her career. You might want to put your headphones on for this episode because you’re going to hear some cool songs. I even included one that her brother Cal sings. So sit back ladies and gentlemen, here is Teddy Anne Cunningham.     She played with her family over 27 years ago for the first time because the band didn’t show up Talks about her husband being a fair manager Events that have happened in the fair industry that she needed to walk in faith Did you feel the stronger your faith was, the stronger the resistance was? As an adult, what kind of things are challenging you now? Created to have a family and be a performer It’s okay that Teddy is not a super established musician because Teddy has also concentrated on all her other dreams (like her family) Everything Teddy does is for her kids Mothers just spend all their time taking care of their kids, which is Teddy’s biggest challenge in taking care of her own career John Dunnigan was her biggest aspiration as a kid Teddy and her brother mostly perform locally The ultimate dream for performing somewhere: meeting Vince Gill or Ronny Crowell For self-improvement, you pray   Resources & Links: Linfordcunningham.blogspot.com Tailgateentertainer.com

If you have talent, as yet untapped, or you love watching performers do their thing at fairs, Terry Fator will certainly inspire you. Whether or not you are in the fair industry, you will love Terry. Listen to his down to earth approach to becoming successful as he talks to Alan Bruess about his meteoric rise to fame since 2005, on today's episode of Tailgate Entertainer.   Terry, singer, comedian and ventriloquist/impersonator,  a great, funny, regular guy, won America's “Who's got Talent” in 2007. One year later, he signed a five-year deal with The Mirage for $100,000,000! All this, with skills he honed while performing at fairs. Listen in today, as Terry talks to Alan about his incredible experiences and the fascinating people he has met, in the world of the fair industry. Join Terry and Alan, as they discuss:   Terry's passion for performing on stage. How Terry started performing at age three. The touching story of Terry's sensitive handling of an autistic boy at a “meet and greet” session. What it takes to win in life. How Danny Gans really inspired Terry to become a ventriloquist/impersonator. Terry's standing ovation in 2006, at the Rocky Mountain Showcase. How Terry got to perform on “America's got Talent”. How you can work your way up, as an entertainer, through the fair industry. Terry's unprecedented rise to success. What you put out, comes back to you. What Terry does with the money he earns from selling merchandise at fairs.   Connect with Terry: www.terryfator.com Get Tickets for Terry's show in Las Vegas   Join our Facebook Group! We'd love to get to know you better!  

This week, we have Karla Majewski to tell us about her animal business. She and her family live on 4 acres in California with almost 200 exotic animals. For nearly 3 decades, her company, Pacific Animal Productions, has been helping to conserve wildlife and endangered species while educating people about the wonders of wildlife. During animal “edu-tainment” exhibits, she lets people see and touch the animals.  She comes up with inspired ideas that are mutually beneficial to both humans and animals. She even feeds people with crickets – stir-fried, in tacos, to provide safe animal protein to people. Show Notes How eating insects is becoming more popular around the world Her school programs – educational show about animals What edutainment accomplishes The most renewable protein source for humans - crickets! Making cricket tacos in her shows She likes grasshoppers too! Bugs are pollinators therefore beneficial for men and nature Why kids today know more about animals than kids did in the past She employs 5 full time zoo keepers to take care of almost 200 animals Her purpose for teaching children about animals The biggest challenge she had encountered  The regulation and licenses she has for her animals Her plans for the future Resources Website: http://pacificanimalproductions.com/ FB:  https://www.facebook.com/pacificanimalproductions/  

Welcome to a conversation with my friend, Marty Davis. Marty has been in the fair industry longer than anyone I know. This is an honest interview from Marty’s heart with a little bit of crazy thrown in! If you listen all the way to the end, you’ll be treated to a yodeling lesson, a story about streaking, some great advice, and some cowboy songs, too! Don’t miss it! What you’ll hear in this episode: How Marty started his lifelong love affair with the guitar Working as a DJ and singing with a band Stories from The Golden Nugget in Las Vegas Why Marty felt like cowboy band costumes were important How he met his wife, Kate---and got engaged after just ONE HOUR of conversation! (47 years of marriage followed!) Bored and unsatisfied with not being the very best Why Marty longed for the “old cowboy sound” “God Bless Old Glory” Yodeling 101 Why Marty believes in mentoring kids Marty’s beginning in the fair industry—1976 Why Marty has mentored many in the fair industry, even offering up his home to many as a stable place to live Mistakes that young people make today: not learning the basics of a solid foundation “Love people enough to tell them the truth.” How Marty struggled in the beginning to find someone to help with his career What happens when too much ego gets in the way Marty’s message to younger people: “Ask for help.” Why regrets are a waste of time Streaking off the stage---for $100 A story (and a song) from the old West—by Marty Find out more at www.martyldavis.com. 

Welcome to a great show with my friend, Pam Shultz. Pam and her husband of 34 years, Rob, run The Imagination Gallery, a business which provides hands-on, interactive science displays for fairgoers. You’ll be inspired by Pam’s passion for what she loves to do and what she’s learned. Join us!   What you’ll hear in this episode: How Pam and Rob started with sand sculptures and teaching science to science shows The evolution of their current fair business How things got out of balance initially with their family The teamwork now in their business and family The agreement about “the final say” Rules for employees and why they exist Fairs that “took a chance” on them in the beginning “How much can I charge?” vs. “How can I provide great value?” Loving what you do and having an impact on people Barbara Walters: Pam’s inspiration Pam’s favorite thing about fair work? Engaging with others Why Pam loves reading and learning Pam’s book recommendations for young people starting out in the fair industry: How Starbucks Saved My Life by Michael Gates Gill and The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin Why Pam will still be doing her work at fairs in 20 years Who Pam looks up to-- and why Email Pam: pam@wildscience.com

How does a couple travel non-stop, perform shows all over the United States, and still manage to love each other at the end of each day? Professional magician Jeff Martin and his wife Pam share the secrets of keeping it all together." Show Notes How the relationship started Their show is an organized business with Pam behind Jeff Is it tough to be just behind the limelight, not among the show performers We are all stronger when we become a community in show business or entertainment industry What is Jeff’s biggest struggle? What is Pam’s biggest struggle? What is Jeff’s favorite food on the road? What Jeff would buy if he won the lottery? What Jeff likes about Pam They’re both on the same wavelength   Resources jmartinmagic.com    

A win-win strategy for both buyers and sellers trying to find common ground at trade shows. In this discussion, Elisa Hays and Alan Bruess talk about how to communicate more effectively between the two sides and the importance of creating dialogue centered on added value. Show Notes What does “negotiating up” mean? What buyers and sellers can ask each other to start negotiating How can an entertainer provide more value to get higher pay? Solving the problem of maximizing value with a limited budget Trade shows and conventions matter to both the fair management and fair service providers The trade show interaction is transactional and relational, according to Elisa When fair managers decide to “negotiate down” they bring in LESS to the fair When entertainers try to book their business and they look at big holes in their calendar Nobody wants to step up their game when somebody keeps negotiating down When entertainers say: “ I guess I’m not a good fit for you” Can entertainers emphasize their main skills and prominently display more? Service members can negotiate up by being problem-solvers When asking more and telling less is highly appropriate   Resources:   http://www.elisahays.org

In this heart warming episode, Tammie Ryan shares her lifelong involvement in the fair industry.  She talks about her challenges as an entrepreneur, living on the road, and where she sees the greatest opportunities for others.  Tammie is highly respected and loved by many in the industry.  As you listen to her open up about her life in this episode, you will quickly understand why.   Tammy is instrumental in getting Alan Bruess into the entertainment industry Tammy invited Alan into the convention The biggest takeaway in the job that she remembers She knows almost everybody in the industry Talking about your products to build relationships? Her biggest struggle when she was starting She always wanted to be a teacher She believes the younger generation needs to get involved in the industry Tips in building relationships   Tips for success in the industry

Let’s talk about the biggest struggles or challenges that artists encounter as performers. My own biggest struggle is:  losing my voice.  Here are 5 different artists and their challenges: Washboard Willy He was our guest in Episode 4. He travels  all the time and often looks forward to a downtime.  His hardest struggle is about losing his sense of community with his own hometown, the place where he grew up.  Listen and learn what it is he is struggling with and what the 3 things he does to countercheck the situation. You can find him at http:///washboardwilly.com   Elisa HaysShe has been performing  onstage for a very long time and her biggest challenge, she says, is how to be like the children who have undistracted, sharp focus on everything around them. What does she do to be like these authentically undistracted cute audience? Her website is www.elisahays.com   Steve Hamilton (also known as Steve the Pretty Good) Was our guest on episode 5. He said his biggest challenge is how to get booked. One day, he asked a friend for advice. His friend gave him the tools he needed. Find out what it was and how he fixed his little problem.   Carrie Cunningham Finding the right support team was her biggest challenge.  She was trying to be everything and she reached out to different avenues.  Listen to her revelation-- her solutions.      Ken McMeans. Ken graced our episode 6.  He would be away from home and on the road approximately 150 to 200 days.  The hardest thing in his life and career was the balancing stuff.  His wife and the children had helped him a lot. Resources: Please join our Facebook Group, Tailgate Entertainer where you will find the 5 performers we interviewed here.  You can find them at:   https://www.facebook.com/groups/201780350198420/

Through hard work and dedication to his craft, Brady has launched into the music scene with a style all his own.  He talks about how he developed his own style as a unique blend of many of his music heroes. He sharpened his musical skills day after day but his parents decided he should get formal training.  Brady dreaded the idea of taking real lessons and says he had an “attention deficit disorder” when it came to structured piano lessons. He would play the piano in his own way and with awesome creativity! Brady’s dad loved the style of Jerry Lee Lewis and so did he. The diversity and creativity of Jerry Lee Lewis fed and bred Brady’s innate musical mind – from country music to jazz, and rock n roll – he improvised. Brady was born to play music and sing but he is also a great rancher and a baseball player. He was told he had a keen ear for music. Others think he has a great voice and savvy fingers on the instruments. We think he’s got all of the above.   What you’ll hear from Brady and the Tailgate Entertainer staff: How Brady began his musical career How his dad helped him become what he is today The musicians who influenced his music All his mentors and his favorite one How his mentor helped him become what he is today What he loves about the fair industry What else he does besides  playing the piano and guitar What advice he wants to give to new musicians What is the quickest step to success, according to Brady He was told he had a “strong ear” for music He thinks it’s the way he delivers his music.   Resources Website  Facebook Page  Facebook Personal:  Twitter: @BradyGoss Email:  bradygoss88(at)gmail(dot)com

Our guest is Louie Foxx, a comedy magician who discovered his knack for playing tricks when he was in kindergarten. It’s the very first time in our show that a guest reads a long introspective entry from his personal journal. Louie read a lengthy entry and I’m thankful for his childish candor. In his journal, he admits to himself that he’s scared of the audience, most likely, his audience’s reaction. He also struggled to keep his speech slower and more coherent.  In high school, he got really serious about making people laugh. He built and carried with him a rickety table and rode the bus into downtown to perform magic tricks on the street corner and got paid by “passing the hat”.     In 1996, the Society of American Magician voted Louie as the Best Stage Magician and Best Close-Up Magician in Minnesota. He has also been featured twice in the prestigious Linking Ring magazine which is a magazine for the 13,000 members of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Louie has also written several books about magic tricks for professional magicians. He keeps a journal about what he did, how the audience reacted and reviews it to figure out what worked and what didn’t work. In addition, he and another performer watch each other’s shows and exchange notes. He’s come a long way since then. Today, his daughter Ella travels with him and lately also performs in his shows. He has appeared on New Day NW, Tru TV’s Guinness World Records Unleashed, Otra Movida TV in Spain, the Nationally syndicated television show How ’bout That or on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. He is also a  2-time Guinness World Record Holder and has been on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, the nationally syndicated television show How ‘Bout That, Evening Magazine, and New Day Northwest.   Louie is indeed living his childhood dream of being a magician.   Show Notes: What Louie’s biggest challenge is How he keeps up with the competition How he keeps himself sane by just inventing magic tricks What he thinks is missing from the fair industry Why it’s important for the fair entertainment We all need a variety of entertainment Quote: At the end of the day, we need to connect with people, not with the tricks.  Advice: Come up with as many original tricks as you can, invent one a day, be creative.     Resources Website Facebook: Download Louie's One Sheet