Welcome! This is the first in the series of “Tailgate Talks,” designed to help artists who are working hard to further their careers and build better relationships with clients. Today, there is no guest to be interviewed; it’s just you and me. I’m taking this opportunity to share my 20+ years’ experience in what I’ve learned, even though I don’t consider myself a guru or one who has “arrived.” 

Today’s Topic: The Construction Zone

• This came from a recent highway trip that I took, encountering a large construction zone, an obstacle along the way.  The Construction Zones in life are where the work happens and where we grow as performers and people. None of us has “arrived” and we all run into bumps in the road along the path to where we are going.
• For example, I used to be scared to death to speak in front of people. My “road” became bumpy and I had to undergo “construction.” What did I do?
• • I tried Toastmasters International, but struggled to speak in front of peers.
  • I partnered with Junior Achievement, teaching junior high school students about business. I learned to overcome my fears, gave back to the community, and grew as a confident speaker.
• Remember, growth requires time, acquiring new tools, and accessing new materials. You’ll be able to look back and see why the “bumps” were there. Others are watching you go through your “Construction Zone.” How you handle yourself will define your character; your future and your bank account depend on your character growth.

Cody Beebe has an authentic sound and depth of soul to his music. Originally from the state of Washington, he received a civil engineering degree, but then decided to follow his heart to become a musician. He has since performed in 30 states and 5 foreign countries and is the creator of the band, Cody Beebe and the Crooks, along with a few others. He runs his own video production company and a metal print business. You might call him an artist and you might call him an entrepreneur; you would likely be correct on both counts! Join us!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why Cody said NO to civil engineering and following the inspiration from his uncle
• How the economic crisis pushed him onto the road with his music.
• How Cody got his band
• The best part of traveling on the road
• Cody shares a hilarious story of playing music in the bathroom of a hotel suite! It really happened!
• “Good impressions are critical!”
• Cody’s favorite song that he wrote
• Cody explains how Chinook Fest began and how it’s grown into the huge event that it is today.
• Cody's unique partnership with the Grandview School District
• Cody explains how artists have to create value before people will pay you for what you’re worth.
• The issues facing performers, like drugs and alcohol, can blow huge opportunities---and have done that for many.
• The thing talent buyers look for that will keep you out of the business
• “You don’t need to run through the wall; just keep pushing on it.”
• Find Cody at www.codybeebeandthecrooks.com. Find out more about Chinook Fest at www.chinookfest.com, and find Cody’s music on iTunes!

Welcome to our first guest episode! Roberto the Magnificent is an excellent performer who has been in the entertainment business for a long time. He started as a juggler at age 11, in 1981, and has now performed in fairs in 46 states! Roberto’s show includes interactive comedy with amazing stunts; he has opened for many well-known celebrities and artists and appeared on many TV shows. Let’s catch up with my friend, Roberto!

In this episode, you’ll hear the following:

• How he got his start at age 12!
• His first experience at "passing the hat"
• The best advice he got from his parents, regarding his unconventional career
• The Gentleman Jugglers
• Marriage to an entertainer is NOT easy! 
• During difficult times, Rob found therapy in his work
• Hear his story about falling during a New Zealand show and finishing the show despite a broken wrist!
• Rob has developed about 13 unique characters and themes
• “The greatest compliment is when a kid aspires to be just like me.”
• How Rob recommends getting started in the business
• “Part of learning is having things NOT go your way. Learn from mistakes and use them to your benefit.”
• Find Roberto at www.robertothemagnificent.com.

Welcome to our first episode! On this podcast, you will get a glimpse into the lives of some very talented and exciting people. You will meet some unusual artists and hear about the passion that drives them to do what they do.

Here’s what you can expect from this episode: 

• How this podcast received its name—from some of my favorite memories tailgating with other entertainers, sharing food, swapping stories, and forming friendships
• Where I come from in this industry—from designing, building, and performing in shows as an owner/operator of an entertainment company
• How you will hear from normal people who lead drastically abnormal lives, as jugglers, musicians, and hypnotists
• How the podcast will feature talent buyers who book corporate events and fairs in this industry
• “Tailgate Talks” will be a special feature of this podcast in which we address questions from you, the listener
• How we will tackle important business and financial issues unique to this industry
• Reach out to me! I would love to hear from you and know what you’d like to hear about on the show!