featured

Fair Game 329 - Shari Black, Wisconsin State Fair

Fair Game 329 - Shari Black, Wisconsin State Fair

In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Shari Black, the CEO of the Wisconsin State Fair. Join us as we delve into Shari's extensive background in the industry and gain insight into her journey to becoming CEO of one of the most renowned fairs in the country. Plus! Discover what guests can expect from the highly anticipated 2024 Wisconsin State Fair as Shari gives us a sneak peek into the exciting lineup of events, attractions, and experiences that will await visitors this year.

Fair Game 326 - Tricia Rosendahl, Wright County Fair, Iowa.

Fair Game 326 - Tricia Rosendahl, Wright County Fair, Iowa.

In this episode, we sit down with Tricia Rosendahl, fair manager of the Wright County Fair in Eagle Grove, Iowa. Tricia sheds light on the profound influence of this small-town fair on the surrounding community and shares insights into the strategies she and her board used to establish a thriving sponsorship program.

Fair Game 324 - Bill Olson, Greater Jacksonville Ag Fair

Fair Game 324 - Bill Olson, Greater Jacksonville Ag Fair

In this episode of Fair Game, Robert sits down with Bill Olson, CEO of the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair. We discuss his approach to leadership and his vision for the 2024 fair. As the head of one of the Jacksonville’s largest events, Bill shares insights on the challenges and opportunities of organizing the fair in downtown Jacksonville, FL.

During the conversation Bill discusses the fair's upcoming relocation out of downtown Jacksonville and the strategic considerations behind this decision. Gain valuable perspectives on how the fair plans to maintain its traditions while embracing change and expanding its reach to new audiences.

Fair Game 322 - Karli Schulz, Nebraska State Fair

Fair Game 322 - Karli Schulz, Nebraska State Fair

Celebrating the Nebraska State Fair with Karli Schulz
Join us as Karli Schulz, the entertainment and events director of the Nebraska State Fair, shares her journey in the fair industry, from pivotal moments to creating memorable experiences. Get an insider's look at how she curates entertainment for the annual fair, delivering a world-class event for all ages. This is a can’t miss episode.

Fair Game 317 - Shane Hansen, Rock-n-Circus

Fair Game 317 - Shane Hansen, Rock-n-Circus

The High-Flying Life of Shane Hansen
In this gripping episode, we dive into the exhilarating world of Shane Hansen, the charismatic star of the renowned Rock-N-Circu show that has been captivating audiences all over America. Shane takes us behind the scenes of his adrenaline-pumping stunt show, offering an exclusive peek into the heart-stopping details and intricate preparation that goes into each hair-raising performance.
As the conversation unfolds, Shane opens up about a deeply personal battle with alcohol addiction that threatened to derail his career and personal life. With unflinching honesty, he shares the harrowing journey of how he confronted his demons and ultimately found redemption through sobriety. Shane's candid account of his struggles and triumphs serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of resilience and the unwavering human spirit.
Tune in to this episode for an enthralling blend of high-octane tales from the Rock-N-Circus world and an inspiring narrative of Shane's journey to sobriety.

Fair Game 246 - Josh & Lea Knotts, Extreme Illusions & Escapes

Fair Game 246 - Josh & Lea Knotts, Extreme Illusions & Escapes

Today’s guest are an experienced husband and wife duo. Josh & Lea Knotts perform an illusion and escape show that will have you on the edge of your seat. However, performing 300 shows annually came to a screeching halt in 2020. They sat down with me to share their story.

Fair Game 236 - Mark Sparks, Triangle Talent

Fair Game 236 - Mark Sparks, Triangle Talent

Mark Sparks is the Vice President of Triangle Talent. Mark and I looked back on the creation of Conjurer Fortune Machine in Triangle Talent’s trade show booth in 2011. Mark shares his thoughts on entertainment booking moving forward in the pandemic, plus, how are entertainers responding to cancellations? All that and more.

Fair Game 233 - John Sykes, East Texas State Fair

Fair Game 233 - John Sykes, East Texas State Fair

John Sykes is the president and CEO of the East Texas State Fair in Tyler, TX. Their annual fair runs in September where they welcome 100,000 guests through their gates. John and I sat down to talk not only the pandemic but the fun and good times we enjoy so much in our fair industry.