Bollotta-FIDE: Recent Episodes
Anthony Bollotta
An Event Entertainment podcast dedicated to the exploitation of the sometimes dazzling, sometimes tragic world of special event entertainment.
Please enjoy this mini episode with the wonderful, Laura Schwartz. Last time she was on the Bollotta-philes got so caught up in the convo that we never got to the 5. Now Laura is back to answer the Bollotta-FIDE FIVE. What is Laura's Golden Rule? What is that one daily habit that contributes to her success? What does she tell herself when no one is around? What is one change she wants to see in the world? Finally, what is LAURA SCHWARTZ's WHY? Enjoy this episode and don't forget to connect with Laura at the link below.
Connect with Laura https://lauraschwartzlive.com/
Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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Laura Schwartz is the fabulous guest on this week's episode, but before the Bollotta-philes chat her up they kick things off with a special TIPSY where Alex introduces a new artist that has earned their way onto the artist roster, JIMMY'S BUFFET. Then we get into the artist that Alex thinks makes a great role model for her daughter, LAURA SCHWARTZ. Laura gives us details about how she came to be the youngest White House Volunteer Intern in history under the Clinton Administration and how after studying Communications and PR that lead to being the White House Director of Events that made her a "CURATION". Stories about working directly with the Clintons. Who is in your "Kitchen-Cabinet"? Going into the bathroom for ideas.
The conversation came so easy to this trio they needed even more time, so they brought Laura back in for the Bollotta-FIDE FIVE that will be on the pod in 2 weeks.
connect with Laura https://lauraschwartzlive.com/
Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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The Bollotta-philes are back! Alex fills Anthony in on her recent experience seeing Mandy Patinkin (her fav) and Anthony has a TIPSY that is almost a RANT-SY about SURPRISES from vendors on site due to low communication. Alex's YaiYai-ism is all about Forgiving but NOT Forgetting!
This week TIFFANY ROSE GOODYEAR founder and CEO of SCENTEX. Learn how Tiffany's started from a dessert company (Yours Truly Cupcakes) and pushed her boundaries and did the work to create her event scent experiences and become a leader in the industry in her niche. Tiffany lets us in how how she creates the scent experiences based on timing and space. Tiffany gives us a crash course in everything to get your room filled with a super smell sensory experience.
SCENT YOUR EVENT! Connect with Tiffany:
https://scent-ex.com/
Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE, ORIGINALLY RELEASED March 11, 2022.
Anthony and Alex are joined by Cali of PhotosbyCali.com. This week we are getting a new perspective on the event world from an artist/photographer. Cali lets us know what she's been seeing from the frontlines at both social and corporate events in a post 2020 world. Hear about the stresses of photographing Presidential Cabinet members and editing in the parking deck to the bliss in finding the perfect ambient light during a corporate cocktail hour to capture candid moments. Learn about what Cali feels makes the perfect photo, what a photographer needs from the client to produce their best work and capturing Kairos Time in her photos. All this and the return of "THIS or THAT?" ENJOY!
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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www.photosbycali.com
This is PART 2 of the Bollotta-FIDE Meeting Goal$ episode. They are joined for this set of episodes by Tracy Fuller, InnovativEvents (Founder and CEO) and Megan Mildenberger, MercyOne Des Moines Foundation (Director of Annual Giving and Events). In this second part of this interview Megan and Tracy discuss the growth of their live (and now virtual) fundraising event through engagement, their attention to the fine details, trusting the talent, community partnerships and the "power of friendship". This duo of episodes is a MUST LISTEN for anyone who handles or volunteers nonprofit events, pass this on!
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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Think about donating to MercyOne.
THIS IS AN ENCORE EPISODE ORIGINALLY RELEASED: JULY 16, 2021. The House of Mercy Game Show Gala 2024 just recently happened so we wanted to drop this back on feed as Anthony and Alex are onsite this week.
Anthony and Alex are off to The Special Event Conference in Miami this weekend, but don't fret they are leaving you with a special 2 part Bollotta-FIDE. They are joined for this set of episodes by Tracy Fuller, InnovativEvents (Founder and CEO) and Megan Mildenberger, MercyOne Des Moines Foundation (Director of Annual Giving and Events). Recently Bollotta Entertainment had the opportunity to work with Tracy and Megan on the MercyOne House of Mercy Game Show Gala 2021 and in this episode the group hosts a public post mortem about the financially successful virtual fundraiser's challenges, wins and plans for the future.
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Follow @BollottaEntertainment on Instagram
Think about donating to MercyOne.
This week musician Bobby Cressey sits down with the Bollotta-philes to discuss his career journey as a musician. He's the stadium organist for the San Diego Padres and San Diego Gulls Hockey teams and now not only a performer but also a part owner of one of the most in demand dance bands, The Might Untouchables and also a composer/producer (google: Dumosa). Anthony and Alex talk with Bobby about his versatility throughout musical genres, pushing through challenges now as a business owner and how exactly did he become the organist with the San Diego Padres. Bobby gives insight on how he's become a professional musician and what it takes to become one of the best in the biz. Enjoy.
Book Bobby or the Mighty Untouchables for your next event: info@bollotta.com
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Brad Wilson of Brad Wilson Talent is on the pod this week! Anthony kicks things off with a TIPSY about BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE TEAM and Alex has a YaiYai-ism all about INGREDIENTS. Brad is known widely from his performances in the Three Waiters and HypnoTWISTs, but today get to know Brad as an agent (The Three Waiters, Showbots and Randy Andys). Brad's story is one of inspiration as he has found new flourish after major personal and professional loses during the pandemic and how he's made the adjustments to make him a truly effective colleague and event professional. Enjoy.
Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Connect with Brad www.bradwilsontalent.com
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Bollotta-FIDE is back after a month hiatus with a fantastic return guest, LOREN SMITH! Top of the show banter includes the duos oy's of smoking, a TIPSY about the "Permission to INTERMISSION" during a program and a YAIYAI-ism about intercepting the long winded. Entertainment Businessman, talent agent profession Santa Claus and musician Loren Smith "The Talent Smith" is back to talk to Anthony and Alex about the other sides of business. From beginnings as a musician, forming bands and keeping the opportunities he's been given. Hear about how he joined the JACKSTRAWS and how they rose to the status of San Diego's Unofficial Welcome Wagon. Hear about Loren's time on the competition reality show SANTAS IN THE BARN that has become an annual favorite watch and lead to bigger opportunities as Surfin' Santa. Loren story and outlook on the event entertainment comes from experience, excellence and know how. LIsten and Enjoy.
The musical track GOOD TO ME (Smith Hubbard & Associates) from the KGB Homegrown VI is presented by special permission of the artist, LOREN SMITH.
BOOK LOREN SMITH info@bollotta.com
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Anthony has a TIPSY all about “SAYING, YES!” and Alex has a YaYa-ism about Courage (and how she got here). Today Jo Ann Fahlgren Mauck, Fine Artist and CEO of Fickle Finger Airbrush joins the conversation. Jo Ann’s talents spread from her skills in Plein Air and portraiture on canvas to Airbrushing. In today’s conversation Jo Ann takes us on a journey from her fine art beginnings to her lucrative airbrushing endeavors with Fickle Finger Air Brush on the Fair and social event circuit. This episode is rich with stories of risk, know how and what it takes to make a living from creating art that can be enjoyed on the wall or on a t-shirt. LISTEN IN!
This episode was recorded live and in person, we apologize for any ambient noise.
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connect with Jo Ann at https://besasandiego.com/member/fickle-finger-airbrush/
This week starts out with a TIPSY all about "FEEDING THE TALENT" and a YAIYAI-ism about Alex wanting food. The Bollotta-FIDE hosts are joined this week by CEO and Chief Inspiration Officer of Skydiving Innovations & Tactical Drone Solutions, RON LEE. Ron's side of the special event industry is not conventional and he answers questions about the inspiration for starting a skydiving entertainment company. The clarity needed when dealing with the risk of putting parachute teams in planes when in the contracting stage of a project. They also get into the new horizon of storytelling and event entertainment using drone light shows. Enjoy.
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
connect with Ron on IG @skydivinginnovations
Find out more:
SKYDIVING INNOVATIONS
https://skydivinginnovations.com/
TACTICAL DRONE SOLUTIONS
https://tacticaldronesolutions.com/
Anthony and Alex get down to business from the jump, a TIPSY about Force Majeure Clauses" and a YaiYai-ism about "everyone taking a piece". Longtime personal friend of the pod hosts, Lisa DeFino Director for The Institute of Meetings and Events of the L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at San Diego State University joins the conversation today. The trio get into Lisa and Anthony's shared onsite experience through a rain storm on the USS Midway. They get into the challenges of getting students engaged and socialized after 3 years of a pandemic. She gets into her desire to see more emphasis on financial management, AI's impact on education and they even get into her past experiences as an animal trainer. Get into this episode now!
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This episode is off to a smashing start as Anthony fills Alex in on the fate of his Mother's good china. Anthony's TIPSY about "WE ARE WHAT WE CONSUME" (not just food based) and Alex's Yaiyai-ism about the direction of your tooth brush. Today's guest is Chris Vance, Creative Initiatives Manager for Sycuan San Diego Casino Resort , They touch on his creative projects at the resort like the San Diego Padres-themed guest suite, the Tribe's philanthropic Right to Dream Soccer Camp initiative and even the new "Sycuan Pride" Weekend the first week of June. They also touch base on Chris's uber-successful extracurricular nightlife brand "Bear Night San Diego" and he has kept the dance floor full over 16 years through venue challenges, rain and the pandemic. Enjoy.
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Anthony kicks things off with a TIPSY about the "Willfully Wandering Welcome" and Alex has a YaiYai-ism about the ownership of Tears and Smiles. They are joined this week by Nikki Arnold (Senior Event Manager, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina). Nikki gives boots on the ground insight on the average day of a Event Manager at one of the most popular hotels in San Diego. She goes over the importance of the first impression, what is "slippage", and the cross section of theater and special events. She also answers the Bollotta-philes questions about what trend she is seeing the most and what question she gets asked the most by clients.
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Anthony and Alex are in the pod with Producer (with an emphasis on Environmental and Brand Experiences and Pubic Space Consulting and Activations, Design and Hospitality Management) Brooksie Hughes from BAH Productions. The Bollotta-philes start with a TIPSY with a checklist for adding SOUND to your event and a YaiYai-ism about how her yaiyai would yell at sound guys. Now the main course, Brooksie Hughes is not only a producer but she also is a public space strategist ie. she does festivals and multi-day programs. They get into the basics like what is a Line Producer or PSM and how the vernacular of positions names change per region and industry. They also get deeper with her experiences with surprises onsite (both good and bad). They get into planning in 4 months vs 4 years, how infrastructure can cost the client more, managing public spaces and even how she got her chops touring with legends. There is a reason why today's guest has charted multiple times on a few of BizBash's "Best of" lists. Listen now, there is a lot of good stuff in here.
Connect with Brooksie Hughes: http://www.linkedin.com/in/brooksiehughes or http://www.bahproductionsinc.com/ for faster response give her a ring at 917.647.7621
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Second Episode of the year and we have the one and only Bernie Gaps (CEO of Absolutely Fabulous Events & Productions INC. and Spandex USA) on the pod. Before they kick off their chat Anthony has a TIPSY about rethinking your approach to "Breakout Sessions" and Alex'i YaiYai-ism all about doing not just watching. In their research the Bollotta-philes learned how Bernie is one of the foremost innovators in the special event industry and Alex and Anthony get into how he has made it happen all starting with his invention of battery operated table top neon to eventually include his own design innovation with spandex linens. Boots on the ground stories designing some of the features for Paris Hilton's wedding celebration on the Santa Monica Pier, Super Bowl Halftime Shows and pushing the envelope.
Connect and plan an event with Bernie http://absofab.net/
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HAPPY NEW YEAR! Anthony and Alex are back with a very Opa!-licious episode to kick off the year. Anthony has a TIPSY about “baby steps” in the new year and Alex has a YaiYai-ism about even smaller steps. Jackie Loeb (Comic/Emcee/Host) joins us on the line direct from Down Under for our first show of the year. Jackie brings the fun as she answers the Bollotta-philes questions about her first paid gig, her television experiences on Superstore and the animated Netflix series Trash Truck. How she prepares for hosting gigs different than a stand up or acting project. Jackie indulges Anthony’s request for a sample of an American accent, she breaks down the importance of being honest and vulnerable to be funnier on stage, and how there is not a “right” way to do comedy (but there is a correct way).
Connect with Jackie http://www.jackieloeb.com/
Book Jackie for your event contact info@bollotta.com
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Anthony and Alex catch up and discuss their recent holiday musical discoveries and then Anthony has a TIPSY about the importance of your local BBB and Alex has a Yaiyai-ism about parts and wholes. They are joined by Jay Sheehan (Cue One Productions). Listen in as this multi-talented university educator, mentor, production manager and author of “The Production Manager’s Toolkit-Successful Production Management in Theatre and Performing Arts” answers Anthony and Alex’s questions about his trajectory in the performing arts and special event industries. Hear about how Jay’s preparation met the unexpected opportunities because of his curiosity and willingness to take calculated risks. All this and boots on the ground stories working with Olympic Horses, country music stars and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. They also hear about writing a book, handling new opportunities and his teaching style. Listen in!
Connect with Jay www.cueoneproductions.com
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Bollotta-Fide's Bollottaphiles kick off this week with Anthony's TIPSY about taking a deeper dive into the client to benefit the sale and project, Alex has a Yaiyai-ism about listening to nothing. Bollotta-Fide Musician, Educator and Performer Bill Fleming stops in for a discussion about following the music across the country (literally). Bill talks about his passion for learning his craft, playing at night in the clubs and in the mornings at mass. BIll Fleming has a great story and outlook. Listen and enjoy!
BOOK BILL FLEMING NOW! Info@bollotta.com
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Anthony kicks off things with a TIPSY about Psychographics from an event professional perspective (article here: https://blog.hubspot.com/insiders/marketing-psychographics) and Alex's YaiYai-ism is about a watch. Rachel Wood (CEO of RSVP EVENTS) sits down to chat with the Bollotta-philes about her past experiences in the hospitality world and non-profit events sector lead to her eventual ownership of RSVP Events. Rachel gives insight in current trends in the Mitzvah market, keeping clients in the know about potential challenges on the horizon and which favor needs to STOP now (but she has a solution for that too). Listen in. Learn. Love!
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Contact Rachel at RSVP https://www.rsvpsdevents.com/contact.html
This is the second part of our interview with our guest Chris Lashua the Founder and Creative Director of Cirque Mechanics. Make sure you go back and start with part 1. In this part they discuss insurance and venue challenges with booking circus acts, audience participation good and bad (think: throwing things on stage), building the shows that he wants to build while still making the sale, and the change he wants to see in the world.
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Connect with CIrque Mechanics at https://cirquemechanics.com/
Bollotta-FIDE is back after a short hiatus the Bollotta-philes are back behind the mic. Alex catches us up on her new status as an "Inked Woman" and Anthony gives us a TIPSY inspired by My Name is Barbara by Barbra Streisand and a YaiYai-ism about You. What happens when you run off and CREATE your own circus? Our guest Chris Lashua the Founder and Creative Director of Cirque Mechanics did! Hear about how he started his career with Cirque Du Soleil, creating new contraptions and pushing the limits of his imagination to fit client expectations and the space given. Enjoy Part 1 of our interview NOW!
(Part 2 drops tomorrow)
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Connect with CIrque Mechanics at https://cirquemechanics.com/
Bollotta-FIDE is here with an early holiday nugget. Alex gushes about a recent trip to the Happiest Place on Earth Disneyland, and Anthony recounts a recent venture in Event Planning. Today's TIPSY is about about Planning the "Perfect" Holiday Party and YaiYai's perfect holiday trio and Alex's dry turkey Christmas. They are joined by San Diego's Surfin Santa (Loren Smith) and Magical Santa Claus (Magic Mike Stilwell). These are two of Bollotta's favorite holiday performers who's care and love of the personal vision of becoming Santa Claus. Hear about the secrets they keep, crowd control and what it's like being Jolly ole Saint Nick. Practice Smiling, Elf Esteem and Mrs. Claus's real name. This episode is half camp, half serious but chock full of heart. Enjoy.
BOOK Loren Smith or Magic Mike Stilwell as SANTA CLAUS NOW! Info@bollotta.com Tree lightings, Holiday Parties, Corporate Cocktail Hours, Home Visits, Toy Give-a-ways, photo ops, sing-a-longs, holiday magic, etc.
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Anthony and Alex are back this week with another personal wellness themed episode, but first Anthony fills in Alex on his experience at the self-check in, Sonder Lum Hotel next to SoFi Stadium (the pros and cons). Anthony talks about "You Are What You Eat" during today's TIPSY and Alex's YaiYai-ism about food and love for the body and soul. They are joined by Master of Sciece, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, JOY KHOURY (Eating Disorder Specialist). Joy has the goal of helping people achieve a healthy relationship with food and and body image and Anthony and Alex are excited to have Joy on the show because she can give them some information for the event professional on the go. Anthony asks about how she handled moving from Lebanon as a working RDN and being given the challenge of going back to school to meet the US requirements in her field (while pregnant!). They talk snacking, intermittent fasting and how do genetics come into play. What about Poke Bowls? Is breakfast important? Listen in. Enjoy.
Connect with Joy on IG @joykhouryrd
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CEO and Founder of JR Global Events the one and only Jennafer Ross is back on the pod! It's been almost 3 years since the Bollotta-philes have touched down with Ms Ross and they needed to have her back after seeing her new separate venture, the #eventpro staffing service app called EVENTS ON CALL which is offering direct access to vetted and experienced onsite event specialists on an "as needed" basis. But first, Anthony has a TIPSY about "VOLUNTEERISM" and Alex has a YaiYai-ism about doing stuff for others. During the interview with Jennafer they discuss the benefits of volunteering, post virtual back in-person and how she accidentally created a matchmaking platform for event specialists. She also gets into the importance of education, her concern for the future of the special event industry and her plans for the future.
Connect with Jennafer Ross for Event Staffing via Events On Call www.youreventsoncall.com
Follow @youreventsoncall on Instagram
Connect with Jennafer Ross for Strategic Meeting and Event Management and Planning via. www.jrglobalevents.com
(JR Global also Exhibit Management, Site Sourcing and much more!)
Follow @JRGlobalevents on Instagram
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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This week Bollotta-FIDE has a special treat and is operating at a different frequency with KYMM CIVETTA the author of HEAVEN IN MY EYES: A TRUE STORY OF HEAVEN AND HEALING. Before they get into their convo with Kymm, Alex asks Anthony for his review of Beyonce's Renaissance World Tour Show at SoFi Stadium in LA (spoiler: Anthony loved it). Anthony's TIPSY is about the PRACTICE OF GRATITUDE and Alex has a YaiYai-ism about looking for ant hills. Listeners may remember Kymm from our very first episode of Bollotta-FIDE as the CEO of NRG Music & Productions but you may not know her full story. The Bollotta-philes have recently read Kymm's book and wanted to get deeper into her experiences in the spiritual realm. Listen in to her recount of meditating with a monk that lead to a bear chase, how she with divine intuition and recognizing her spiritual gifts. This and SO much more. LISTEN. ENJOY!
Kymm's book "Heaven In My Eyes: A True Story of Heaven and Healing” available on Amazon
You can schedule bookings, or message Kymm through her website and other social media platforms:
Angel Intuitive Ministry
You-Tube
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Anthony and Alex are back and thinking about the year so far as the fourth quarter begins. This week's TIPSY is about "FINDING YOUR CREATIVITY" and a YaiYai-ism about "Finding beauty through openness". Today the twosome are joined by CEO and Creative Director of AOO Events, David Merrell. They discuss designing for the client not the designer, teaching trade secrets and how the economy impacts his event design. Anthony asks David about his thoughts on AI and what technology is he paying the most attention to. David answers questions about his leadership style, the fire and the future...plus, a fabulous Bollotta-Fide FIVE.
Connect with AOO Events www.aooevents.com
Follow @aooevents on Instagram
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Anthony and Alex kick off this week with a TIPSY about "Assumption of Risks" and a stomach settling YaiYai-ism. This week we have Event Pro, Melody Corvalan the Director of Event Sales at Belmont Park. The San Diego Native talks about some of the varied options the San Diego theme park provides to it's group and corporate guests with rides, food options and late night capabilities. Get her perspective industry networking and camaraderie are vital to how she successfully operates. Anthony also asks about how Melody has found herself working through the pandemic and not only found herself bouncing back but moving UP. Listen for this and much more with this effervescent event pro.
Check out Belmont Park's Group and PartyPage: https://www.belmontpark.com/groups-parties/
Connect with Melody@belmontpark.com to plan your next Belmont Park Event!
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This is the second part of Anthony and Alex's interview with renowned chef and event industry professional Andrew Spurgin the Chef and Owner behind Andrew Spurgin Bespoke Event Styling and Menu Design. Here they get into Chef's thoughts on dietary restrictions, tasting the passion in the food, making YOURSELF the project and Alex cries while eating.
Connect with Andrew at www.andrewspurgin.com
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Anthony and Alex kick off with chatter about talking with emojis, a TIPSY and a new YaiYai-ism both involving the idea of "GRACE". This week they are joined by Andrew Spurgin the Chef and Owner behind Andrew Spurgin Bespoke Event Styling and Menu Design. Dig in and savor this delectable conversation about his formula on how he approaches a project, a mouthwatering 10 Quick Questions, establishing trust to grant freedom, and so many more stories about process, travels and clients that we HAD to give you this episode in TWO parts!
Connect with Andrew at www.andrewspurgin.com
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Submit ASK ANTHONY questions on the form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
Anthony and Alex are back this week (surviving the heat of summer) with returning guest Magician, Illusionist and Hypnotist Derek Ostovani. Before they start their interview Anthony has a TIPSY all about “discovering the magic of SOLITUDE” and Alex has a Yai-Yai-ism about finding your own peace before helping others. Magician Derek Ostovani is back after 3 years to update the Bollotta-philes about all the new NEW in his life (Including a baby boy)! We hear about what happens when he audience is too out of pocket, still performing virtually, the good and bad of performing on cruise ships and restaurant magic. Anthony comes clean about what he’s not a fan of and Derek talks about branching out into hypnosis.
✨ ✨ BOOK DEREK: Info@bollotta.com ✨ ✨ *****
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The Bollotta-philes are back! Anthony and Alex have been on summer hiatus for the past 4 weeks and they are back (sans guest) to talk about their summer travels. Alex had an adventure on the other side of the world as she traveled through Italy, Greece, Malta and Spain and has some delightful stories about making connections with people during her journey. Cruise ship talk as Alex remembers her soul lifting windy nights and Anthony remembers his time performing at sea. On Anthony's summer has been filled with live entertainment. Locally in San Diego Anthony's been to shows like the Jinx Monsoon's Everything at Stake Tour and Ted Sperling with the San Diego Symphony Under the Stars at the Rady Shell. Mr. Bollotta also ventured to New York City after a gig in Chicago and took a tour through the Broadway Museum and his thoughts on the shows he saw (Sweeney Todd, Shucked, Some Like It Hot & Kimberly Akimbo).
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It's SUMMER BREAK and we have another ENCORE for you. Feast on the TREATS in this episode. Anthony starts off this episode catching up Alex on his recent business trip to Charleston, SC and they talk about the nightmare getting back across the country. They are joined by event pro Sheri Karpinski owner and operator Sensational Treats to discuss all things business. Sheri and the Bollotta-philes discuss the restructuring of pricing in 2022, creating new products from her imagination vs. client request and doing what makes sense. They also discuss her career in the industry, working alongside with competitors, working with grace and OWNING it. Sheri also explains her mind blowing "DOLLAR TO GRIEF RATIO" phrase.
www.sensationaltreats.com
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ENCORE: It’s the Bollotta Office Family Holiday Special. Originally released on Christmas Eve Eve (12.23.22) the Bollotta Entertainment Operations Manager Sam Sabbagha and Operations Coordinator Siri Elena are on the pod! The B.E Team gets to put Anthony in the hot seat with an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session. Alex takes lead mic and she and the team have a question and answer segment with Anthony with questions like; where does Bollotta Entertainment fit into the entertainment and event industry, why are certain company protocols and practices in place and Headliner Contracting. They lob questions about labor management, candy backstage and business learning curves.
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Thank you for listening to this encore release as our Bollotta-philes are on summer break. Originally released on April 29 (Episode 110).
Anthony kicks things off with a special TIPSY for anyone running an event based hospitality business and taking time to look forward. Alex then brings in the panel of Industry Icons Jaclyn Bernstein (EMPIRE FORCE EVENTS), Dorene Collier (EVENT SHOW PRODUCTIONS) and Lenny Talarico (LENNY TALARICO EVENTS) to discuss an array of topics like: Transparent Relationships. Breaking points with clients. How culpable are industry pros for client behavior. PLUS some boots on the ground war stories.
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BOOK Jaclyn at www.empireforce.com (Jaclyn's first Bollotta-FIDE episode is #14 (part 1 and 2) Jaclyn Bernstein is an Empire Force!
BOOK Dorene Collier at www.esptampa.com (Dorene's first Bollotta-FIDE episode is #38 Accepting the Contract with DORENE COLLIER)
BOOK Lenny Talarico at www.lennytalarico.com
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Vertigo struck but Alex is back on her feet and Anthony has a TIPSY about legacy building, Alex's YaiYai-ism is focused on being the person your grand children proud. The Bollotta-philes are joined by their colleague Alex Freeman. Alex has recently completed a Master's In Direction of Institutional Communication, Marketing, and Event Production at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid and Anthony and Alex have a host of questions around the culture of Madrid and the workload around the program. Anthony asks about her feelings around her new earned opportunity taking her from Event Production into the Event Planning side of the industry. They discuss the difference in the working culture in the United States vs. Internationally, communicating through challenges, how her past in theater impacts how she handles stage management in the fast paced event production world. Start listening.
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Alex reveals her summer travel plans and Anthony's TIPSY is all about "Working Through Fear" and a "Time for Tears" YaiYai-ism. Then they sit down with 5 time Emmy Award winner, PAT BROWN. Pat Brown has been on Bollotta's roster of talent as an emcee, host and speaker but this is the first time Anthony and Alex have been able to dive deeper into her past as a weather anchor and news personality. Pat lets us in on some of the fun she is having these days as a Day Trippers' tour guide and how she navigates her role as a Host/Emcee for corporate and nonprofit events.
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Anthony and Alex kick off this episode recapping his recent trip to DesMoines for the House of Mercy Game Show Gala and then gives his TIPSY about the fundamental different between Production vs. AV., then Alex gives us a "Takes a Village" based YaiYai-ism. This week Zachary Grant from SEAS Productions stops by the pod to give a Bollotta-FIDE it's deepest dive in the PRODUCTION side of the industry. Zach explains the benefits behind having a healthy relationship your production team and being upfront about budgets, the importance of preproduction, labor expectations and the values SEAS PRODUCTIONS provides to their clients. Zack lets everyone know how SEAS Pro is educating the industry and demystifying the Audio Visual experience with their new projects like "Show Talk" and their new podcast dropping later this year. Listen in.
Connect with Seas Production on Instagram @Seas_Pro
Connect with Zachary and the SEAS team www.seaspro.com
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This week Anthony's TIPSY contains 3 Rules of Resilience and Alex's YaiYai-ism is about Strength. The very Bollotta-FIDE Michelle Corcoran (UC Berkeley, Strategic Analyst for Southern California Major Gifts Team) stopped by the pod. Before finding her passion in fundraising in the college and university world, Michelle had an extensive and diverse experience in the event industry. Listen in from her beginnings as a salesperson at the "Del Mar Fair" and then moving to booking underwater experiences all around the world lead to where Alex and Michelle bond on how they have applied their professional hospitality skills into their parenting. Words of wisdom to event pros that are afraid of moving from operations to sales, meeting client goals and engaging throughout the event completely. Now Michelle's path has lead her to the fundraising world from UC San Diego to her current position. All this and a fascinating story BTS as the concierge to the entourage for the Dalai Lama.
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This week Anthony kicks things off with a TIPSY about "coordination of production for Headlining Artists" and Alex's YaiYai-ism is about "saving face by communication". Then the Bollotta-philes have a sit down with Rob Barber (VicePresident of Modular Systems and Research & Design) of ATOMIC! and Spacekit. Rob is a leader of one of the most creative and forward thinking teams in the industry that has revolutionized the way stage sets and events are designed. Hear about their Rock Lititz Campus, the 100 acne rehearsal mecca for building some of the world's larges touring shows, the new direction ATOMIC has taken into decor and tiny homes and even a story about seeing a huge pop star's show before anyone else in the world.
Connect with ATOMIC Design https://www.atomicdesign.tv/
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This week Anthony and Alex have the delight of talking to the President of Viridity Entertainment Services (VES) & HJZ Productions and Emmy Winning Camera Operator HOWIE ZALES. First up Anthony kicks things off with give a quick review of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Florida after a recent trip and his endorsement of the Broadway Tour of SIX. A Tipsy about "Taking Business Personally" and a YaiYai-ism about "Keeping the Peace". Listen in as Howie Zales talks about some of his boots on the ground stories behind the production for professional sporting events. Howie teaches Anthony and Alex about how the cameras need to "support the storyline'. They also explore how his experiences with HJZ Productions background in crewing solutions and his camera work to form Viridity Entertainment Services and how they met the demand for broadcasting and livestream events in the height of covid and have grown beyond. Listen in.
Connect with Howie, Viridity Entertainment Solutions and HJZ Productions at www.howiezales.com
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Happy PRIDE Month! This episode GLITZ GLAM (San Diego Legendary Drag Queen, Church of Glam, GGTV Podcast, Activist, Philanthropist) Things kick off with Anthony's recount of his recent delightful experiences hosting Black Tie Bingo for the Shoreline Community Service Pacific Beach and viewing the SDSU production of Cabaret. A TIPSY about "Integrity in public personas" and Alex's YAI YAI-ism about promises. Anhony, Alex and Glitz get into a very candid talk about the social temperature and legislation around their profession as a drag queen. Alex has some questions about approach when managing feelings around pronouns. Glitz is also a Senior Manager at the world famous Urban Mo's Bar and Grill and discusses how to they handle hospitality in a space that is LGBTQ+ focused. G.G. also let's us in on the origins of GGTV podcast and his CHURCH OF GLAM and their vision forward.
Connect with GG at www.churchofglam.com
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Six Tell Tale Signs Someone is Lacking Integrity.
Anthony starts things today with a candid take about some of the components he experienced at The Special Event 2023 Orlando and gives a TIPSY about "Showcasing" your business. Alex gets into a YAIYAI-ism about Promises and Meaningful Talk. They are joined this week by Emcee and Event Host Amy McWhirter. Anthony and Alex ask questions around Amy's background in Dance, Improv and network television and how they have been her building blocks to success in the special event industry. She also answers questions about her approach with International audiences, even some insight on how she grounds and centers herself and some nuggets on how she amplifies the message in her client's scripts. Listen in...
Connect with Amy at www.presentingamy.com
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Anthony kicks off things with a TIPSY about release and Alex’s YaiYaism is has to deal with funerals and weddings. They are joined this week by Event Designer and University Professor of Western Civilization and History SAM CAVELL, PhD (Southeastern Louisiana University & NXT Events) Sam and Anthony have long standing friendship and working relationship and they discuss and disseminate over the major changes in corporate events of the 80’s and 90’s compared to today from themes, to ROI to budgets. They get into how her life has changed as she has moved from full time event designer to tenured university professor. Hear stories about the time a cartoon mouse went full diva and how many hurricane cocktails are too many and the night the ice sculpture exploded.
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THIS EPISODE HAS TIPS FOR MUSICIANS WANTING TO PERFORM CORPORATE GIGS! Things get started with the Alex revealing that she got a gong plus YaiYai's importance of naps and Anthony has a TIPSY for Artists and Talent about managing and holding time. The are joined today by Bollotta-FIDE musician, guitarist and singer SAM HOSKING. Sam has been part of the Bollotta family of artists for a long time as one of the most booked cover artists on roster. Sam answers questions about marketing himself for corporate work and taking into account all the factors in the room when coming up with playlists, They also talk about the importance of organization and following intuition. Listen in.
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FREE THERAPY! This week Bollotta-FIDE has the acclaimed Marriage and Family Gottman Method Therapist, Dr Dana McNeil (The D Spot Podcast) joins the conversation for this episode; but first Anthony has a TIPSY about clear communication practices in business and Alex has a YAI YAI-ism about the importance of eye contact. Dr Dana McNeil is the founder of the Relationship Place (San Diego) and brings her trained perspectives to the pod and answers questions like, "Can you change the way you feel?", "Is it ok to go to bed mad?" and some advice for event pros that are trying to balance profession success and meaningful personal relationships.
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Anthony kicks things off with a special TIPSY for anyone running an event based hospitality business and taking time to look forward. Alex then brings in the panel of Industry Icons Jaclyn Bernstein (EMPIRE FORCE EVENTS), Dorene Collier (EVENT SHOW PRODUCTIONS) and Lenny Talarico (LENNY TALARICO EVENTS) to discuss an array of topics like: Transparent Relationships. Breaking points with clients. How culpable are industry pros for client behavior. PLUS some boots on the ground war stories.
Anthony's starts with a "purposeful" TIPSY and Alex's Yaya is keeping the devil out. Bollotta-FIDE is over 2 years old and it's about damn time they had the artist responsible for Anthony's caricature as the guest. Fine Artist and Acclaimed Caricature Artist COURT JONES stops by to talk about his experiences. Listen in on details of the process background painting for Disney's Disenchanted, staying ready for opportunities, elevating event caricatures and even his work being commissioned to aide medical professionals.
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This week Alex’s YAYA-ism gives new uses for bells and salt and Anthony’s TIPSY is about getting a full site inspection including ALL the space your team will negotiate on time.
They are joined by ELVIN LAI (Owner & Operator, Ocean Park Inn Pacific Beach, Abnormal Beer and Wine & co-Founder of PB Clean and Safe)
Hear from this busy multiple business owner on what keeps him up at night, running and adapting a legacy business in the current economic climate, and staying active in the community. Elvin is tapped into the San Diego community and chats with Alex and Anthony about the Convention Center changes, competing hotel brands that are coming to the area and thoughts on the T.O.T. (Transient Occupancy Tax). This interview pulls back the curtain and gives some insight on what it is to run a hotel (Parent Friendly Pools, Community Give Backs & Balancing Life).
Book your beach front stay at the Ocean Park Inn: https://oceanparkinn.com/ or call 858.483.5858
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This week's episode is super important for everyone that posts content online! Alex kicks off this week with a YAYA-ism about keeping your moles and Anthony has a TIPSY about keeping relationships going. Get ready for a DIGITAL awakening! Our guest SHAWN WALCHEF (CaliBBQ, DIGITAL HOSPITALITY Podcast, @CaliBBQMedia) is one of the reasons why the Bollotta-FIDE pod even exists. Shawn is more than a BBQ Restauranteur, he’s a media master that found additional success after he embraced social media and podcast media. Listen in on this inspiring chat about the importance of telling YOUR story, Digital Flash mobs, Smartphone Storytelling and checking your ego and being REAL online.
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This week the very Bollotta-FIDE Dakota RInger (Musician, Song Writer, Performer) stops by for chat with Anthony and Alex about his approach to music from his background heavy in music theory to being able to feel the room. Dakota gives us insight on the experience of writing music on commission versus personal artistic endeavors. We get a little glimpse into his experience and flexibility whether as an actor on the stage, a musician in the orchestra pit or front man in the bands The Naked I or Lost Villains. Alex has a Yaya-ism about being open to improvisation and Anthony's TIPSY deals with flexibility as an artist.
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We have a very Social Event focused episode this week with Bollotta-FIDE Event Planner and Entrepreneur Lydia Krasner (Charming Expressions CEO, Mitzvah Event Productions CEO, BESA President) is BACK on the pod! Anthony kicks things off with a TIPSY about Gift Tables. Lydia Krasner is a master in the field with a focus specifically on social events. This episode has so many great ideas, tips and nuggets to take away in this episode. From "BEADS" to Gift Receptacles to staying relevant with young people Lydia shines a light on so much of her experience like the rise of the BAT mitzvah.
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This week Bollotta-FIDE starts out with Anthony's TIPSY all about ARTIST RIDERS and they they hit the ground running with their special guest. DANI ROVENGER (CMP) is in the pod to discuss her career shift into a Project and Product Management direction. Anthony had the pleasure of meeting Dani in their cohort at SDSU Masters in Event Management program and knew he needed to dive deeper into her experiences. They get into her past experiences working with the US Military as a government contractor, her onsite experiences and challenges around the world and how she is taking her further educational pathway and applying the things after over 20 years in the biz.
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Alex kicks things off with a Yaya-ism about sisterly love and Anthony gets TIPSY about music selections. Then the Bollottaphiles are joined by Event Producer, Strategist and Facilitator of Fun JOY D'ARIA! With a well rounded background in hospitality, nightlife, F&B and special events Joy finds her focus on what is important based on the client need. Alex asks about client pushback and how to handle that when dealing with a corporate team as a freelance planner/producer. Here what this strategist is working on in her downtime to enhance her client experiences and how she's investing in her own personal growth.
Contact Joy
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Anthony kicks off things with a TIPSY about using cover songs for events and Alex tells us why YAYA knows Best. This week musician Joseph Eid joins the conversation. Bollotta-FIDE gets a moment with the singer songwriter to discuss finding his voice in college and what goes into his process of making music for himself or for hire. Hear about getting his music placed on movie featuring Sharon Stone and his real life interaction with the star, past lives and vibrating with the room.
Thank You by Joseph Eid from the album BACK TO THE LIVING used with permission of Joseph Eid STREAM NOW on SPOTIFY, APPLE MUSIC, ETC!
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This week Bollotta-FIDE has the pleasure of a sit down conversation with the Director of Facility Administration for the San Diego Symphony, Paige Satter. Alex kicks things off with a Leap Year YaYa-ism and Anthony gets TIPSY about assigned seating. Paige gets into her favorites part and challenges of managing and contracting a (RAIN or SHINE) facility like the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park and Copley Symphony Hall at the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Music Center. Enjoy this upbeat conversation about the behind the scenes operations of the iconic San Diego Symphony facilities.
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THE 100th EPISODE! Anthony kicks off things with a SECURITY focused “TIPSY” and Alex is talking YAYA and sprinkling salt.
This week GRETCHEN YERKE (EPIC Meetings & Events, Managing Partner and Founder) joins the podcast with a conversation about sustainability and waste she has witnessed onsite at events and venues and how she’s striving to make a change. She discusses her effort in making simple and effective changes concerning the environment by raising her client’s awareness and consciousness around their addiction to “single use” items (Look at your BEO and DOUBLE CHECK!). Listen in on how she sets her boundaries and keeps herself engaged in honoring her health and work/life balance in one of the most stressful industries. Gretchen also speaks about some alternative medicines have benefited her personal and professional like like the benefits of macrodosing psyllasybin, cold plunging, breath work, sound therapy and her new certification in EXPRESSIVE DANCE. (She reminds our audience to please seek the guidance of a professional before trying).
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This week Alex’s Yaya-ism is about the perils of giving knives and Anthony GETS TIPSY about Celebrity bookings. They are joined by Brian Palmer (Senior Vice President of the National Speakers Bureau) Anthony recently a graduate of the SDSU Masters in Event Management had the pleasure of being mentored by Brian Palmer for the last 18 months. Bollotta-FIDE digs into how he makes an impact on the event industry based on the success of his event contributions. They get into the importance of follow through with volunteer responsibilities and taking advantage of your network of referrals. Find out about how Brian finds balance between his work and personal life, the importance of the simple act of determining a client’s goal for a speaker and his family bond with Marilyn Monroe. Stop reading, start listening. ENJOY.
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This episode critically acclaimed musician and bonafide Bollotta-FIDE flutist LORI BELL joins the conversation. Before the duo dive into Lori Bell’s experience Alex has a “Plate Smashing” Yaya-ism and Anthony GETS TIPSY about getting the dance floor going. They divulge from the 10 Quick Questions in to a conversation about her experience playing the Kennedy Center stage and how she’s is currently preparing for her 12th studio album. Lori Bell even talks about her production and writing process and how practice makes progress. They get into the technical aspects of playing flute and the importance of the instrument’s quality and maintenance (including a few stories about the complexity of repairs), retooling her teaching process post pandemic, and keeping a healthy balance.
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This week we have the very Bollotta-FIDE, Mandi Graziano (Author, Sales Coach, HPN Global) on the show. Before they get to the nitty gritty, Alex gives a very ODD Yaya-ism and Anthony GETS TIPSY about gamification of your event. Anthony recently read Mandi's book: SALES TALES: The Hustle, Humor, and Lessons from a Life in Sales. Mandi is all about finding the fun and $ucess in sales. Find out how she got in the mix with someone from Millionaire Match Maker, how she's not being afraid of being told "no" and how she gets attention from potential clients. ENJOY!
Connect with Mandi at www.mandigraziano.com
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This week Neal Rubinstein (Broadway, Theater, Television & Film Producer).is back to kick off 2023 with Anthony and Alex with a continuation of their Broadway Behind the Scenes discussion (Part 1 on Episode 94). Neal is back to talk more about DANGEROUS: A New Musical (Broadway's New Mystery) with insight on the music and the timely process of mounting a show. They get further into the details of his role of the "Lead Producer" and assembling a talented and diverse team to push the project forward (during a pandemic). Neal also answers questions about his perspective on what is winning Tony Awards and filling the seats, the sustainability of a show on Broadway vs. Tour and he talks about an offer he has currently for investors of a new production.
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Contact Neal at nsrproductions@verizon.net to discuss investing in his next production.
Stay up to date with Broadway's New Mystery: DANGEROUS, A New Musical. www.dangerousmusical.com
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It’s Bollotta Office Family Holiday Special. This week Bollotta Entertainment Operations Manager Sam Sabbagha and Operations Coordinator Siri Elena are on the pod! The B.E Team gets to put Anthony in the hot seat with an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session. Alex takes lead mic and she and the team have a question and answer segment with Anthony with questions like; where does Bollotta Entertainment fit into the entertainment and event industry, why are certain company protocols and practices in place and Headliner Contracting. They lob questions about labor management, candy backstage and business learning curves.
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This week Anthony and Alex are joined on the pod with the very Bollotta-FIDE Neal Rubinstein (Broadway, Theater, Television & Film Producer). Alex kicks things off with a Vampiric Yaya-ism and Anthony's Tipsy about keeping guests comfortable. Make sure your earbuds are fully charged because this conversation with Neal Rubinstein is one for the books. Neal lets us in on his process as a producer while giving some inside dish on his new musical, "Dangerous" Broadway's New Mystery. Candid conversation about the theater world post covid and his thoughts as an investor of shows such as Funny Girl (the Lea Michele Effect). Hear about Neal's experiences and stories about Broadway productions like Hedwig and the Angry Inch, On The Town, touring shows and more...This conversation is so good there will be a part 2. Enjoy!
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This week Alex kicks things off with her Yaya-ism about how you shouldn't compliment a baby and Anthony "Gets Tipsy" with a thought on when to pay talent. This week the owner and leader of KICKS BAND, Gary Hartson stops by to discuss how it takes the perfect combination of standing on your experience and then being flexible to the event can create the most successful events. Listen in on how KICKS Band has become one of the most in demand ensembles in Southern California and earned the Bollotta-FIDE stamp of approval through their tenacity, musical prowess and organization. This and More. ENJOY!
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"Eat everything on your plate!", according to Alex's YaYaism this week and Anthony gives you a They are joined this week by Will Curran (founder of Endless Events, #eventprofs community creator, Host of the podcasts: Event Icons, Event Brew and Event Tech Podcasts) for a discussion on how his company and brand has grown past event tech and into being a full service event management company. Will gives insight into his leadership and management style and how he finds the right fit for this team while he works ON his business. This and so much more..stop reading, start listening. ENJOY!
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CONNECT with WILL www.willcurran.com
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The dynamic duo Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back with another dynamic duo, KALINA and KIANA (musicians, performers, producers, song writers). Get to know these two musicians who happen to be sisters, as they answer the 10 Quick Questions. Learn how these individual musicians blend their talents together as a partnership on their song writing, producing projects and performances. Listen in on how they balance while keeping a strict schedule to maintain a real life outside of their work and what success at corporate performance looks like...or might smell like?(lol) Moreover they speak on how their message, impact and influence affects their mission statement. ENJOY.
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Your Bollottaphiles Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back with a new TIP OF THE DAY: Size Matters (when booking a band). This week the duo are joined by CLINT BELL (Emcee, Auctioneer, Host and Business Man) for a sparkling conversation about how this "fast talker" has become one of the top talents in his field. Clint talks about experience with taking the energy of the room and funneling that energy into his client's purpose and goal and how he's evolved with new technical aspects of live auction, how many items should be on the live auction block and keeping the audience's attention and Clint answers the Bollotta-FIDE FIVE! ENJOY.
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Anthony and Alex are joined by musicians Danielle Tucker (Host, The Unstoppable Singer Podcast) and Mark Fulton the Co-owners of THE MIGHTY UNTOUCHABLES, one of the most successful show bands in the business. Danielle and Mark shine a light on how they package their band for the stage and how they choose their performance materials and set lists for each performance. Being part of a larger ensemble can be a challenge and these two have found a way to make it work and make it flourish with their marketing, work ethic and talented players. Enjoy.
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Mark Langford (Musician, Guitarist, Sound Engineer & Owner of Rock & Roll San Diego) joins Anthony and Alex for this week’s Bollotta-FIDE. Enjoy Mark’s storied experiences with notables from Michael Bublé to Stryper to Mother Theresa. Listen in on how he started and has maintained his love for Rock, Flamenco and Classical Guitar through his self-teaching, training with the greats and his own tenacity. Mark talks about turning his nervous energy into excitement before each gig. They also get into Mark’s business Rock and Roll San Diego, a musicians resource that offers recording/streaming event space, rehearsal space, music lessons, rentals and even repairs. Mark is a true delight and conversationalist. Enjoy.
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This week LGBTQ+ nightlife impresario Joe Whitaker (DILF Parties, Joe Whitaker Presents, Man Upp) joins our Bollotta-FIDE hosts Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis for a discussion about his events and how they have elevated and grown become an international LGBTQ+ nightlife brand and their impact on the special event industry as a whole. Joe discusses how his business relies on marketing and outside ticket sales and the importance of bring thankful. They talk about the challenges and liability of bringing nightlife events back to the public, growth out of personal challenges and hitting his next level with his "Joe Whitaker Presents" event label. All this and more.
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For Tickets at a venue near you, Joe's events visit www.joewhitakerpresents.com
Come out with Pride ORLANDO Tickets:
Saturday Oct 15, 2022 RAINBOW HOUSE! with Lady Camden
Sunday Oct 16 2022 HAPPINESS Tea Dance Pride Official Closing Party with Meatball
PUERTO VALLARTA Oct 27-31, 2022 DILF Black Party Weekend.
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Kevin Krohn of Big City Sing-Along (Vegas Pianos) joins our noble Bollottaphiles Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis this week for a very insightful and round discussion on adapting and managing past adversity and unsettling situations. Surprising answers to the 10 Quick Questions. A deep conversation about computer generated song writing and the next chapter in music production and consumption. The difference between DUELING and DUALING PIanos- there is a difference! Just listen already...
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Anthony and Alex are joined by the founders and owners of POP NOUVEAU, Dan Boissy and Sam "The Dude" Johnson. Listen in on how the jazz band that specializes in jazz arrangements and the performance of modern and pop music covers was formed. They take on the 10 Quick Questions "together" and listen in on the Bollotta-FIDE FIVE. They go into their way they have marketed themselves, their wardrobe decisions based on jazz legacy and how they understand background performance fundamentals. Sam and Dan discuss how they come up with their arrangements. These savvy duo lets us know what's new like their New Orleans flavored group.and Yacht (rcok) Jazz Group and what's next. Enjoy.
*We apologize for the background noise in this episode as Anthony was recording onsite in a hotel with questionable wifi.
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This week Anthony and Alex are joined by founder and CEO of BrickHouse Dance Productions Jacqueline Coligan. From casting talent shows on the playground as a kid to now producing and directing dancers and performers for major corporation events. Jacqueline takes on the 10 Quick Questions and the Bollotta-FIDE FIVE with aplomb. Hear about how she has worked through onsite challenges, the importance of getting time onsite to walk through performances and what she anticipates now onsite from a former event planner perspective. ENJOY.
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Ready, Set...SPARKLE! Anthony and Alex are joined by the Sparkle Queen, Taylor Morgan McPherson (Current Events LLC, Sustainable Sparkle Bar, Twisted Up, Crystalized). With her recognizable "POOSH Approved" sparkles and signature designs that have been seen at events like: Coachella, Bottle Rock, Corporate Mixers, Partnerships with brands like TMobile and MalibuRum or even on television shows like Vanderpump Rules. She lets us know how she got through the shut down by taking her designs to the streets for the BLM marches and keeping her social media engaged. We learn about her "sustainable" environmentally conscious glitter and her signature application process. All this and more, just listen already... ENJOY.
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Anthony and Alex welcome special guest, WHITNEY SHAY! Listen in as they are joined by this #1 Billboard Blues Artist sings the praises of her collaborators and tells us about the roller coaster of releasing a hit album just before the world shut down. Whitney lets us in on why she performs and lets everyone in on her vocal injury, surgery and return to the stage. The rising star gets through the 10 Quick Questions unscathed and gives us some nuggets from her own emotional intelligence practices. STAND UP! or sit down and ENJOY.
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are joined by Sara Brown (Sara Brown Events) on this week's Bollotta-Fide. Sara discusses her event work that focuses on corporate award recognition and marketing programs like the Cox Top Tech Awards and how their success and decision to plan the event again are often based on ROI and Statistics. Get to know Sara's fun side with the NEW segements: RAPID 10 INTERVIEW QUESTIONS and the FIDE-FIVE. Hear about how Sara started her business in a nontraditional way and how she manages and balances her business and life. ENJOY!
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This week Anthony and Alex have the pleasure of having Paris Sukomi Max on the pod. Listen in as this multi talented producer, entertainer, designer, philanthropist, keynote speaker and entrepreneur gives us an inside look into how she has so much more to offer the world than the typical "Drag Queen". From being family friendly on stage to speaking in public about transgender rights and her HeyAuntieParis mission. Hear how being a RPDR Queen isn't the goal, her time saving techniques and turning it all off. ENJOY!
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Anthony and Alex are back in San Diego this week, with some personal chat at the top of the episode. Then this week Anthony brings a recent article he read on the PCMA Magazine website: How to Deal With 7 Curveballs Thrown at Event Organizers to the table. (https://www.pcma.org/how-deal-7-curveballs-event-organizers-big-conferences/) Together they expand on the article (by Dave Lutz, CMP) 7 points like Short Staffing and Room Turnovers. On the second half of the pod, they talk about the American Rescue Plan and how the money in the grant being used for tourism, travel and outdoor recreation across the country. Also some random side talk about MonkeyPox, TwitchCon, #PodcastMovement Conference and Flip flops on a plane.
PLEASE SEND US YOUR THOUGHTS!
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Anthony is back in Florida dealing with family and Alex is fresh back from a trip to Vegas and they discuss their 2022 air travel woes. Bollotta-FIDE approved Performer, Educator and Producer Janet Hammer (Sweethearts of Swing, Rhythm Express) joins the conversation this week. Janet fills us in on her daily gratitude affirmations, being present during a performance and stories from her career. They discuss being able to tell what’s in a performer’s being during a performance, the challenges of being a band-leader and stories from the stage (like how a performer jumped out the window). Enjoy.
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis discuss a bevy of topics today. Alex is back from a fun trip to Vegas and discusses her Trailer Park Chili and Anthony's lack of cooking skills and a trip to the Shell to see the San Diego Symphony with Michael Feinstein's Judy Garland show. Anthony recounts a story of an interaction with Sid Luft. They get into their observations of San Diego Comic Con set up before the show opens.Then they get into trends with AR and Virtual, the inflation issues and getting talent to work within a budget and much more. Enjoy.
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A bit of a different show this week as Anthony calls in from his childhood bedroom as Alex helps hold down the fort at the office as the Bollotta Family deals with the recent loss of Anthony's father and the experience around it. They talk about their love of July in San Diego normally and Anthony's take on corporate sponsorships in the San Diego Pride Parade and how they could make the biggest impact. Alex has never been to San Diego Comic Con. An some free chat. Enjoy.
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This week Anthony calls Alex from Louisville, Kentucky as he’s on the road with a client. Loose chat on this episode as the two talk about the serious topic of recently breaking up with a client. Making the difficult decision to let go of a long term client when the staff began to feel disrespected and bullied. They talk about how wanting the same treatment Bollotta gives artists for themselves. They gush over Ross Mathews and the recent experience working with him on a project, personal expressions on what women are dealing with, Anthony visit’s Churchill Downs and Alex uses Windex.
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Anthony and Alex are back with an update on Bollotta Events happening this past week with Drag Shows in San Francisco and Chicago, working with TV's Ross Mathews in Santa Monica and The House of Mercy Game Show Gala in Des Moines. Then they are joined by Heather Mason (CEO/Founder).of the Caspian Agency. Heather lets us know how they attack an event and project more as a strategist over being a "planner". Hear about she finds her inroads with clients based on factual data or connecting with client and their audiences based on patterns and surveys. Hear about how they founded their business, big mistakes and big evolution. Listen in on this and much more, plus a fun round of THIS of THAT.
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This episode Anthony and Alex chat about the recent "Grad NIght" project Bollotta Entertainment took on and the recent "door prize" someone left for her at home. June is Pride Month and this week Bollotta-FIDE Producer Dangilo steps out from behind the scenes and joins the conversation with thoughts on the corporatization of Pride, Drag Shows becoming more mainstream, the adverse sides of celebration in this time and some of the projects that Bollotta Entertainment has taken on this year. Enjoy.
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Anthony and Alex are joined by recent graduate of the San Diego State University Meeting and Event Management Master's Program, Alveeta T. Bower, CMP (Manager, Events Marketing for Panorama Education, Inc.). Listen in as they discuss their experience during the program and how it applies to her important work now.
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Anthony and Alex are joined by special guest MIKE LEE (MindShift Labs). Listen in and hear why this is one of Alex's favorite guests to stop by the pod. Mike gets into how managing depression lead to the start of his company and we learn what his definition of mindfulness is. Hear about getting into your feelings both mentally and physically to gain clarity and his approach on harnessing your inner power to thrive in business and life. ENJOY.
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Connect with Mike Lee at www.mindshiftlabs.com
Anthony and Alex are alone in the pod this week. Listen in as they discuss how things are changing in the world; politically, client-wise and the benefits of volunteering. The Bollotta-philes discuss Anthony's recent experience at The Special Event Trade Show and his experience in the event chair position for their annual "Leadership Luncheon" and gives accolades to the vendors that made it happen. Talk about Disney love and working with the amazing Colbie Caillat and the backstage unnecessary challenges he faced when onsite.
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Anthony and Alex start this week with a little recap on the Home Start San Diego Blue Ribbon Extravaganza they worked on this past weekend and then they are joined by two San Diego State University Masters in Event Management Instructors. Returning Guest, Annette Gregg (Chief Revenue Officer for Meeting Professionals International) and making her Bollotta-FIDE debut Annie Revel, CSEP (Founder, Revel Productions). Get to know these powerhouses and their approach to building the curriculum, course format, and the unique program aspects in the SDSU MEM Master's program.
This week Anthony and Alex are joined by Master's Course Students: Danielle Romero, Manager, Corporate Events at Keurig Dr Pepper and Rachel Weisman, Marking Content Creator at Brilliant Marketing.
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Anthony and Alex are back and talking about emotional breakdowns, event expenditures and masking right off the top. They are joined by Author, Keynote Speaker, Host, Coach and Improv Pro: Milo Shapiro (TEAMProvising, IMPROVentures, Public Dynamics). Milo's new book "Public Speaking for Teens: Get A's Not ZZZZZZ's" a youth oriented guide to public speaking and conquering the fear of getting in front of a crowd (based on the "adult" version). Get MIlo's insight on team building projects post pandemic, using his improv training to move through challenges on stage, improv coaching and pushing yourself to your next big thing. They also touch on Milo's other projects like writing theater reviews for publication and a fun THIS OR THAT.
www.miloshapiro.com
www.publicdynamics.com
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Anthony and Alex are on assignment this week, so we are giving you an encore presentation of: Bollotta-FIDE x SDSU MEM Master’s Class: IMEX-cited for This Series
Anthony and Alex find time during the busy slate at IMEX America in Las Vegas to introduce a new ongoing series on Bollotta-FIDE. Master’s Class follows Anthony’s journey in the Meeting & Event Management (MEM) master’s program at San Diego State University (SDSU). Carl Winston, Founding Director of the L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at SDSU, joins the show, along with two of the school’s master’s instructors, Terri Breining from the Breining Group, and Senior Vice President of Experience at Meeting Professionals International, Annette Gregg. The star-studded cast tells you everything you need to know about master’s degrees in meetings and events—short of actually pursuing one yourself, of course. Hear how the SDSU team, including Program Director and former Burger King CEO Jeff Campbell, developed a curriculum with the right balance of personal and professional development for a seat at the leadership table.
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Anthony and Alex are alone on the pod this week. Alex attended a fun seder over the weekend and talks about the games she learned like "tele-strations". They get to talking about event decisions with the "surge" happening and how it's impacting mask mandates, crowd size, clients making decisions last minute and the hard decisions to make in the moment. More talk about event attendees (see episode 65) and why they attend, Virtual Reality, and does our audience notice when people are reading teleprompters? Trends on the horizon: Panel Discussions and Futurists. Enjoy,
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Anthony and Alex are joined this week with SDSU MEM students: Lauren Dejmal (CMP), Senior Marking Manager, North America Events & Marketing Services with AGCO Corporation and Andrew Elkins, Event and Marketing Manager with California State University Northridge, Center on Disabilities.
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Feast on the TREATS in this episode. Anthony starts off this episode catching up Alex on his recent business trip to Charleston, SC and they talk about the nightmare getting back across the country. They are joined by event pro Sheri Karpinski owner and operator Sensational Treats to discuss all things business. Sheri and the Bollotta-philes discuss the restructuring of pricing in 2022, creating new products from her imagination vs. client request and doing what makes sense. They also discuss her career in the industry, working alongside with competitors, working with grace and OWNING it. Sheri also explains her mind blowing "DOLLAR TO GRIEF RATIO" phrase.
www.sensationaltreats.com
San Diego's largest and longest running Bridal Show NEXT SHOW is on 04/10/2022 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
PROMO CODE: BOLLOTTA for free tickets when you
REGISTER FOR THE SAN DIEGO BRIDAL BAZAAR: http://bridalbazaar.com/
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A little Oscar 2022 talk from the Bollotta-philes today. Anthony and Alex are joined this week with Tara Hoffman of Bob Hoffman Photography & Video and the owner of the San Diego Bridal Bazaar.
Tara talks about her company's history and their success at the trade show and how important it was to keep the legacy alive when the Bridal Bazaar became available for purchase. In this episode gain insight as a business on the importance of participating in a trade show in establishing and maintaining your supply chain, alliance building and getting directly in front of your future clients. Enjoy.
San Diego's largest and longest running Bridal Show NEXT SHOW is on 04/10/2022 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
PROMO CODE: BOLLOTTA for free tickets when you
REGISTER FOR THE SAN DIEGO BRIDAL BAZAAR: http://bridalbazaar.com/
Follow BridalBazaarsd on Instagram
VENDORS contact exhibit@bridalbazaar.com
This week Anthony is calling in from Philadelphia where he's onsite for an event , while Alex is still in sunny San Diego! This week's conversation is inspired by what's been happening in their lives in real time. At 2:36 AM, Anthony had a rude awakening via. emergency siren and this leads to their sparkling conversation about booking venues, travel issues, On Duty vs. Onsite. Anthony gives his review of the new 21st Century reimagined Broadway touring production of Oklahoma. Alex talks about social anxiety and realizing that she can just leave when she wants. PS. The ALARM went off again after recording hence the recording included. LOL
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back this week starting with some light chatter about Alex's weekend full of pickleball and bowling. This week they take a look at a recent Banks Sadler article "Understanding Your Attendees: The Key to Event Success" They take a look at the six event attendee identifications that #BanksSadler has defined: The Knowledge Seeker, The Tech-Savvy Networker, The Inspiration Seeker, The Social Butterfly, The Reluctant Attendee and The Brand Fanatic. Find out how Anthony and Alex identify amongst the types, their insight on the article and what to do with this information.
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Anthony and Alex are joined by Cali of PhotosbyCali.com. This week we are getting a new perspective on the event world from an artist/photographer. Cali lets us know what she's been seeing from the frontlines at both social and corporate events in a post 2020 world. Hear about the stresses of photographing Presidential Cabinet members and editing in the parking deck to the bliss in finding the perfect ambient light during a corporate cocktail hour to capture candid moments. Learn about what Cali feels makes the perfect photo, what a photographer needs from the client to produce their best work and capturing Kairos Time in her photos. All this and the return of "THIS or THAT?" ENJOY!
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Anthony and Alex lead a roundtable discussion on how leadership, emotional intelligence and self-reflection make for a rewarding experience in SDSU’s HTM/MEM Master’s journey. Three of Anthony’s fellow master’s cohort members—Charlene Liu, Senior Meeting Planner for the National Council on Compensation Insurance; Todd Hale, COO and General Manager at the San Diego Country Club; and Adrienne Foster, CMP, Event Manager at VTM Group—join the show. They each answer the burning question, “What is one negative thing about yourself that you’ve had to face in the program?”
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Welcome back to another episode of Bollotta-FIDE with your hosts Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis. This week they start with their loose chat about Anthony finally getting to taste Alex’s home cooking, city sanctioned tree trimming and parked cars. On to the main event: the two handle the topic of EVENT PROPOSAL ETIQUETTE aka EVENT QUOTE ETIQUETTE. This episode for everyone that lives that RFP “Request for Proposal” LIFE. Alex fires off questions about what is the “ideal proposal”, what is a “HOLD” vs. “BASED ON AVAILABILITY”, what to do with an ask that has an unreasonable timeline or request, being clear about the provisions needed (aka RIDER needs) upfront. Stay for Anthony’s final words about listening to cues and using empathy when selling. Enjoy.
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BollottaFIDE's Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back in the ZOOM where it happens without a guest but with a potpourri of topics. Get to know them both a little more personally as they chat about Valentine's day, friend relationships in (and out) of the industry and cultivating music generationally as Alex is helping her daughter prep for college auditions. As they talk about dealing with success and failure and Alex's 17 year old kid's words of wisdom. Anthony's parents recently celebrated 70 year of marriage and Anthony's gift to them. Also some of what Alex is working on this spring.
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis you Bollotta-FIDE hosts start this episode talking about following the rules, following the company culture, getting perms and 90 year old parents in their loose chat. They are joined today by Benjamin “Benji” Asher owner of the aptly named, Benjamin Asher Productions. Benji as many know him is one of the premier Bar/Bat Mitzvah DJ/Entertainer in the industry and they get into the full business of entertaining family friendly audiences. We get his take on the social side of special events…parties in the afternoon? Benji is a “Glass Half Full” kind of guy and we hear about how success sometimes blooms from being an empathetic person. We also hear about what he's learned in the Bar/Bat Mitzvah world that has transferred beyond into his corporate event work and dealing with explicit lyrics at family friendly events.
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It’s the end of January and we are six weeks from Spring, YAY! Anthony talks about turning off his notifications to save time vs. Alex’s appreciation for her iWatch, and autocorrect fails. They are joined this week by Bryan Yamami the Executive Director of TaikoProject. Find out a little more about this growing company with an impressive resume that includes commercials, Academy & Grammy Award, XFactor and Late Night Television appearances. Bryan schools Anthony and Alex on some of the history of taiko and gives us a glimpse at how TAIKOPROJECT has given this their fresh and innovative take on the art form. We touch on TaikoProject’s touring concert programs, educational activities and a peek behind their win at the 2005 Tokyo International Taiko Contest. Find out how to become a part of the TaikoProject Performing Team and notable performances.
Music from the TaikoProject catalogue: New Beginnings, Grounded, Kodama & Expanding.
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Rough start to your year, too? Anthony and Alex start with their thoughts on how 2021 has begun and their hopes moving forward, how tides change and getting over themselves when it comes to fear. They are joined today by Evan Ferrante (actor, producer, director & Tom Cruise impersonator). They get into Evan’s beginnings in the entertainment industry via. major television soap operas and musical theater in NYC beginning as a child actor and then finding the push to the West Coast as an adult to make his mark and eventually become a father as well as a thriving performer. Evan shows his emotional intelligence when discussing how he deals with auditions and the industry disappointments, and in talking about his successes and peaks. Evan Ferrante shares his take on embodying Tom Cruise for the screen and in person at live events. How he realized that this type of portrayal was something he could do and further how he carved out his own place amongst the best in the business. Evan even shares a little bit of his process of becoming Tom and how he applies it to each performance and can shape it match the need and there’s even a story about meeting #TomCruise IRL.
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We may be showing our ages on this one but respect is due to the younger generation that has taken over the event world. This week Anthony and Alex talk about Millennials! They read recently in an article on #SocialTables by #CVent about how Millennials are now the largest generation involved and they talk about what their focus is.Time to put the value on the overall experience over the material goods. They get into the trends of the traveling meeting goer and how It’s a big deal that attendees have control over their conference schedules and the desire to customize the experience. More talk about the importance of having virtual components to their events and basics like how the meeting destination and venue impact attendance and how micro events are growing. Listen in.
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Anthony and Alex are back with their first recording of 2022! They catch up on their New Year’s Eve nights and the Andy Cohen or it all. As they get into the issue of appearance at work Anthony poses the question to Alex, “Who do you take feedback from?”. Taking inappropriate criticism in an appropriate way. The stress of dealing with people. Alex brings up a client call that she had today that took a personal turn and how it made business easier to discuss. They close out their tete a tete with 2022 Event Trends and how they apply to associations, corporations and incentive events.
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Happy New Year! Bollotta-FIDE is back with the first new episode of the year. BF’s Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are joined this week by David Calzaretta, CEO of Magnificent Events out of Chicago and also the band leader of the award winning band Maggie Speaks. Anthony gets to the bottom of who is “Maggie” that the band’s name hails from and how did a musician/band leader find success in starting an event company. David answers the question, “Are you losing yourself by keeping your mouth (or social media) quiet and ego in check for the gig?” They touch on advocating for yourself in the sales process, giving up something to gain more and how collaboration (and mentorship) is key to bigger success. They round out the discussion on being vulnerable and bringing the humanity back to how people perceive you (listen and find out about David’s powerful personal project). And David makes Alex weep (just a little).
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Check out David's Company Magnificent Events www.magevents.com and Maggie Speaks www.maggiespeaks.com and find his other projects: www.radiogaga.com &
www.oneofthesenightsband.com & www.golddustdreams.com
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The last episode of 2021 and it part 2 of Anthony and Alex’s fascinating talk with Mentalist/Illusionist David Winston aka Dana Law. This episode resumes with Anthony’s question about “What is Mentalism?” and David clears that up along with some quick mental math (get a pencil and play along). They talk about their favorite Broadway musicals and the memories around them and some chatter about the local San Diego theater scene. They talk about David’s foundation years in construction, Dopp kits and what’s in their “man bag”. Alex challenges Anthony to challenge her to push each other with writing more. All this and the last “This or That” game for 2021.
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Anthony and Alex couldn’t leave you all hanging this Christmas, so here they are with their (prerecorded) annual Christmas Special! Anthony’s not feeling the spirit but his Bollottaphile Elf, Alex won’t let him stay in the holiday funk. It’s a full potpourri of light topics such as Christmas Ham prep, some of Rotten Tomato’s Best Christmas Movies of All Time List vs. Sappy Hallmark and Lifetime movies, dinner plans and Dad’s homemade sausage. They are joined by special guest, Laura Tancredi-Baese the CEO of Home Start San Diego, a child abuse prevention association local to San Diego and she tells us all about their recent Home Start San Diego Toy Give-A-Way and how some of the notable volunteers like California State Senator Toni Atkins helped throughout the day, Santa sleigh challenges and executing an intimate event during a challenging year.
Find out more about Home Start San Diego at.https://home-start.org/
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Anthony and Alex had such a great time talking to Mentalist & Illusionist David Winston/Dana Law that we had to split episode 55 into two parts! The dynamic duo start with a conversation about the holidays and some plans they have coming up. Then they are joined by David Winston aka Amazing Dana the Magician for a discussion about entertaining audiences closeup after a challenging 2020, his 41 year marriage to a wonderful woman and his stellar online reviews and how does mentalism work? This and much more in part 1.
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Anthony and Alex welcome two of Anthony’s fellow cohort members, Tessa Goettsch and Emily Parsons, from the Meeting & Event Management (MEM) master’s program at San Diego State University (SDSU). Tessa is the Director of Corporate Events for Brown & Brown Insurance. Emily is an Assistant Meeting Planner for the National Association of Attorneys General. They discuss their reasons for pursuing a master’s degree, the impact of SDSU’s leadership training so far, and how they’re balancing grad school with work and life.
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Anthony and Alex are joined this week by Greg Schwem (corporate humor comedian, columnist, keynote speaker, author, radio personality). Anthony recently had the pleasure of experiencing Greg speak when they worked in Hawaii recently and Anthony knew he needed to bring everyone this Bollotta-FIDE artist. They get into how Greg shapes his material uniquely for each artist, fighting for attention from the phone and even working for a government agency. Even more they discuss favorite Broadway musicals, winning the greeting card industries' prestigious Louie Award, airport observations, and even losing your phone.
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It’s Thanksgiving week and we are THANKFUL for all of you that listen to us. Instead of taking the holiday off the crew got Anthony’s good friend (Broadway Musical Composer/Arranger/Musical Director/Performer/Educator) Wayne Barker on the line for a grab bag of topics. Anthony and Alex start off with chatter about their travel peeves and experiences. Wayne Barker (Composer of Peter and The Starcatcher) joins us from his personal light tunnel. Anthony puts Wayne on the spot when he asks for his personal knowledge on Thanksgiving and he also delights us with some stories from his theatrical experiences. They talk about Wayne’s involvement with the San Francisco Silent Film Festival and gives us some insight on what inspires the musical storytelling as they have live music at every screening. They talk about forward motion on a project with his pal BD Wong, being a plant dad, composing music, his passion for the of the musical improvisation process, famous thanksgiving songs, reading books and bone broth in the bedroom…it’s Thanksgiving, people!
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Anthony and Alex are alone in the pod this week. Your favorite Bollottaphiles catch up and talk about Anthony’s recent trip to Miami to throw a 90th birthday party for his mom. Anthony gives a little more background about the new Bollotta-FIDE x SDSU MEM Master’s Class monthly series. (SDSU Meeting and Event Management Master’s Class Ep 1: IMEX-cited For This Series AVAILABLE NOW in the Bollotta-FIDE feed!) Alex asks Anthony about his feelings being in the program as one of the more “seasoned” students. Anthony brings up a recent article he read in INC Magazine about how people want happiness in their employment and Alex tells us about what is happening in holiday bookings and more.
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Bollotta-FIDE x SDSU MEM Master’s Class: IMEX-cited for This Series
Anthony and Alex find time during the busy slate at IMEX America in Las Vegas to introduce a new ongoing series on Bollotta-FIDE. Master’s Class follows Anthony’s journey in the Meeting & Event Management (MEM) master’s program at San Diego State University (SDSU). Carl Winston, Founding Director of the L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at SDSU, joins the show, along with two of the school’s master’s instructors, Terri Breining from the Breining Group, and Senior Vice President of Experience at Meeting Professionals International, Annette Gregg. The star-studded cast tells you everything you need to know about master’s degrees in meetings and events—short of actually pursuing one yourself, of course. Hear how the SDSU team, including Program Director and former Burger King CEO Jeff Campbell, developed a curriculum with the right balance of personal and professional development for a seat at the leadership table.
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What a dream! This week Bollotta-FIDE is joined by the creative design maestro JOE MINEO (Joe Mineo Creative, Author "It's My Party"). Anthony and Alex find out how Joe has regrouped, rethought and restructured in the past year. Joe lets us in on how he has set healthy boundaries with incoming clients and how he sets their expectations early on. Anthony and Alex get into how JMC treats every event like a live show in the theater. There is also some behind the business talk about staffing needs, supply chain issues, how Joe feels about "trends" and finding the blessing in being part of the biggest day or a person's life.
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FInd Joe at www.joemineocreative.com
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Alex and Anthony are joined this week by the musicians that make up the band FRESH PLAY. Comprised of Husband and Wife duo Perry and Felicia Johnson and musical renaissance man, Mark Taylor. Find out about how this match made in reality show heaven (American Idol & X-Factor),found each other and expanded their lives and talents to create a family at home and musically with their talented best friend. This team's positive onstage energy warmth is palpable on stage and in their music. Hear about what's next for FRESH PLAY, how they handle a corporate audience, Anthony's "agent" suggestions and the core of their collaboration. Listen in and enjoy.
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Bollotta-FIDE takes a deep dive into HALLOWEEN. Anthony and Alex discuss their personal feelings and memories for the Spooky Season past and present. They go over a grab bag of Halloween traditions and how they started. Random sidelines like, 'HOW WOO-WOO ARE YOU?". Questions arise like, "Did you TP a house or were you TP'd?" Enjoy their Halloween romp.
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This week Bollotta-FIDE puts the magnifying glass on the co-hostess with the most-ess, ALEX APOSTOLIDIS! Anthony takes a focus on the "best wingman" with this Q&A. Alex takes us on her journey from the coveted musical theater roles from her childhood, through her college experience and even a journey cross country on a train. They talk about her personal experiences like living in Seattle, her personal relationships and her amazing daughter. They discuss being in the original cast of How The Grinch Stole Christmas, her favorite part of the special event entertainment industry and Alex even lets us in on her dream theatrical role. ENJOY!
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ENCORE of BollottaFIDE Ep 6, our most popular episode to date!
Recorded in August 2020 (before the new mics) Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are joined by the musical multihyphenate Kenny Ard. The pianist-showman-businessman-college professor-cabaret staple talks about teaching college level musical courses during the pandemic, Injecting new life into past projects and how rehearsing your material and setup makes for a smooth quality performance. Also, Anthony breaks down his thoughts on California Assembly Bill 5 (aka AB5).
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Anthony and Alex are in the Bollotta-FIDE today. Alex got a call for a last minute acting gig and she said, "YES". Everyone is asking for proposals and who are we to say, "No"? Updates about what's we have been seeing in the #virtualevent trends, it will surprise you. What's up with #AB5 at the moment from #eventpro and personal perspective. Broadway is open and LIVE theater is BACK! Gab about Holiday bookings and recent BESA trade show experience with Shan the Candyman.
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Anthony and Alex are back and more Bollotta-FIDE than ever. No guests this week as they catch up. Anthony start with a discussion on engagement and is it actually adding to the value of the overall experience. They talk about converting a live experience to a virtual hybrid audience without making them feel slighted. Anthony gives his opinion on where virtual will still be used after everything is fully open. They talk about how this is the time to tighten up the event in timing, the importance of knowing your audience and when to market and engage them. ENJOY!
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Anthony and Alex are both off tackling projects this week so enjoy this re-run episode in their stead. This week we are running the pilot episode of Bollotta-Fide! Who is Anthony Bollotta and why in the world does he think he has the right to Bollotta-fy anything? Get to know Anthony Bollotta through his sidekick Alex Apostolidis' in-depth interview about life, business and what is next in the world of Special Event Entertainment.
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Anthony and Alex start with a discussion about attitudes and the PRINT Survey that Anthony had to complete recently at his Master’s program orientation. In this supersized episode they are joined by Principal and Founder of Kaleidoscope Vue Consulting, Wayne Harth. In 2020 when the pandemic hit and after being furloughed for 8 months from his corporate hotel job, Wayne was presented with a new opportunity to take his experience and expertise and create a new path. Wayne found a way to take his destiny into his own hands by creating a business firm that works with hotels and luxury properties to develop club memberships, revenue driving experiences and community loyalty. Listen in on how he’s forging his way, the fears being self-employed while leaving the corporate safety net and the value of loyal friendships and even hear about a program he has already started and even a fun story about working with the Olympic committee. ENJOY!
Connect with Wayne at www.KaleidoscopeVue.com
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Recently Anthony had a challenging situation that left a bad vibe concerning his longstanding membership in a special event association, that situation lead to this week’s episode of Bollotta-FIDE. Anthony and Alex are joined this week by a panel of leaders from 4 different distinguished Special Event Industry Organizations & Associations to discuss their purpose, specific audience, their value and even some of their evolutions post pandemic. They touch upon what an individual should consider before joining an association and what should be your focus when finding your niche. They also discuss the value of SHOWING UP to meetings and getting the best benefit for your business.
Joining the conversation is: Dustin Westling (ILEA International; President-Elect, Board of Governors), SPENCER BEZY (MPI San Diego; President), Lydia Kasner (BESA San Diego, President) & Craig Carbonniere (HSMAI San Diego, Director of Communications)
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Learn about ILEA International ileahub.com
Learn about MPI San Diego mpisd.org
Learn about HSMAI San Diego hsmaisd.org
Learn about BESA San Diego besasandiego.com
MPI #ILEA #HSMAI #BESA #MPISanDiego #ILEASanDiego #HSMAISandiego #BESASanDiego #eventpro #eventprofs
This one is VITAL for gig workers and independent contractor and anyone who hires them in the state of California. Don't be afraid! Bollotta-FIDE tackling the subject of AB5 in California (and the influence of the national PRO ACT). Some of today's episode may sound foreign to you, but they are going to break it down for you. Alex and Anthony begin with some details about new AB5 ABC Test and then they are joined by Brandon Watterson (Owner & President of BWatt Entertainment and Disc Jockey Performer) whose understanding and grasp of the subject made him Bollotta-FIDE's go to guy on the subject at hand.
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This week on Bollotta-FIDE Anthony and Alex are joined by CEO and Founder of BRAVO! Events, Nancy Shaffer. Nancy is also the President of the Board of Directors for the LIVE EVENTS COALITION. The Live Events Coalition is a volunteer organization that was created in response to the pandemic and advocates on behalf of the industry to ensure that we are seen, heard and understood by lawmakers that are directly impacting the lives and businesses of the millions of people in the event industry. Please listen, enjoy and JOIN!
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Bollotta-FIDE is back to basics this week with Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis. They are giving some updates on what is happening right now in business a year and a half after the first shutdown. No guests this week, but we do have some feedback from some Friends of the Bollotta Pod: Sherrill Kinsler (RSVP Events), Tracy Fuller (InnovativEvents), Jennifer Ross (JR Global), Nicole Matthews (The Henley Co.) and Jaclyn Bernstein (Empire Force Events). Enjoy.
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Anthony and Alex are back with the 40th Episode of Bollotta-FIDE. In this supersized episode the crew is joined by CEO, Heidi Brumbach (Technisch Creative & BeWell TV). Recorded on location in South Beach Miami the day after The Special Event + Catersource trade show commenced. Together the group discusses the highs and lows of their experiences at showcasing and social events. We also find out about Technisch Creative's online tv network Be Well TV. Enjoy!
Find Heidi on http://www.bewelltv.online/
Join the LIVE EVENTS COALITION! www.liveeventscoalition.org
Get your hands on your own SEQOUIA BUNS! www.sequoiabaking.com
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This is PART 2 of the Bollotta-FIDE Meeting Goal$ episode. They are joined for this set of episodes by Tracy Fuller, InnovativEvents (Founder and CEO) and Megan Mildenberger, MercyOne Des Moines Foundation (Director of Annual Giving and Events). In this second part of this interview Megan and Tracy discuss the growth of their live (and now virtual) fundraising event through engagement, their attention to the fine details, trusting the talent, community partnerships and the "power of friendship". This duo of episodes is a MUST LISTEN for anyone who handles or volunteers nonprofit events, pass this on!
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Think about donating to MercyOne.
Anthony and Alex are off to The Special Event Conference in Miami this weekend, but don't fret they are leaving you with a special 2 part Bollotta-FIDE. They are joined for this set of episodes by Tracy Fuller, InnovativEvents (Founder and CEO) and Megan Mildenberger, MercyOne Des Moines Foundation (Director of Annual Giving and Events). Recently Bollotta Entertainment had the opportunity to work with Tracy and Megan on the MercyOne House of Mercy Game Show Gala 2021 and in this episode the group hosts a public post mortem about the financially successful virtual fundraiser's challenges, wins and plans for the future.
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Think about donating to MercyOne.
Today's guest called from the middle of a storm, literally! Dorene Collier (Founder, CEO and Creative Director) of Event Show Productions calls in from "ELSA" and joins Anthony and Alex for a riveting conversation. They discuss a recent contract Dorene accepted and the challenges her team faced onsite the day of the event when dealing with last minute Covid-19 protocols, optics therein and who is actually ready to go back to LIVE events. Dorene and Anthony wax nostalgic about their days dancing in mascot heads in their 20's and Anthony and Alex find out about Event Show Productions beginnings and even some talk about her notable products Shapeology and TellAVision (as see on TV's America's Got Talent).
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Anthony and Alex are joined by the founder of the destination management company PRA, Patti Roscoe. Patti gives Bollotta-FIDE insight into her personal and professional journey that lead to her being recognized as a pioneer in the special event industry. PRA, with a single women at the helm, was only the second service based companies to franchise over 40 years ago and still is one of the most acclaimed DMCs in the industry. Patti talks about the importance of passion projects like her involvement with founding the Hospitality and Tourism Management Education Program at San Diego State University and how belonging to nonprofit organizations is important for person growth. Find out what Patti misses from the industry now that she has retired and how she's staying in the game. Patti Roscoe also gives her advice to other women who are now finding themselves in male dominated boardrooms. All this and Patti's learned insight and perspective on the event industry now. ENJOY!
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Anthony tells Alex about his recent in-person event in Pheonix for the American Dental Hygienist Association and they discuss when the band has the groove but no flow. They are joined this week by comic and speaker (who is funny), Frank King for a very frank and funny discussion about the transitions and traumas that lead to the TED Talk stage on multiple occasions with crowd favorite subjects like, "Mental Health and the Orgasm Treat Your Depression Single Handedly". Frank King show vulnerability with his candidness about his mental health and the work he's put into his life, bodybuilding and performances.
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are joined by Michael Cerbelli (Cerbelli Creative & The Hot List) in an insightful conversation and catch up session. They discuss the Cerbelli Creative Team weathering the storm of 2020 and their success moving the needle into the future. They talk about how the trend pacing and industry anticipated "Michael Cerbelli's The HOT LIST" is celebrating it's 20th year with a new twist at The Special Event(TSE)/Catersource Show (July 2021) in Miami and Michael gives Anthony and Alex some insight on what to expect on the MC APPROVED stage this year. They discuss how 2021 is the learning curve year, how it's the time to charge properly for services and how giving away all of your creativity during the RFP process isn't beneficial. The group also talks about meeting client goals with entertainment, managing artist riders and a HOT LIST 2021 DEEP TEASE! This episode is BOLLOTTA-FIDE!
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Connect with Michael at www.cerbellicreative.com
Michael Cerbelli’s: The Hot List™ is happening on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at the Miami Beach Convention Center – Show Floor Stage
SASS CHAT PODCAST CROSSOVER EPISODE! Anthony and Alex are joined by the dynamic duo behind the pop culture podcast SASS CHAT. Athena Espinoza and JD Dumas are 2 friends that take on 1 topic each week and Anthony and Alex were dying to add to their endorsements and additions to a recent #sasschat episode topic: "Musicals We Hate". Athena and JD both are established performers and vocal artists and we find out what they have coming up professionally and about finding success as a performer when handed challenges onsite. Athena and JD find out about Alex's stalker tendencies. They discuss taking "free" keepsakes out of the hands of Disneyland animatronics and since Athena and JD are two of the best carolers in the biz so Anthony and Alex quiz them on the 15 Best Christmas Songs (You've NEVER Heard).
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Follow @sasschatpodcast on Instagram and listen to SASS CHAT on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify etc!
Anthony and Alex are joined by Derrick Gilday (CircusPerformer/Clown/Business Person). Derrick answers Anthony and Alex's questions about the Cirque Du Soleil audition process and working along side performers who elevated the Cirque material. They discuss how through skill and training finding the confidence to not rely on audience reaction while maintaining their attention. Derrick has some commentary and insight into why people have a fear of clowns. Anthony and Alex about Derrick about his new special event offerings from clownery to roller skating. Taking risks during the pandemic (it involves skates and a hill). Alex asks about finding the balance, Japanese Tea Ceremony and creating a holistic entertainment experience.
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Anthony and Alex start out with a discussion about allowing yourself the chance to take a break and the difficult and changing process to keep the company's state issued talent agency license. This episode they got the chance to sit down with the Event Marketing Maven, Michelle Bergstein-Fontanez (Owner of BeatCreative Marketing). Michelle talks about what BeatCreative does for their clients and how she's had to pivot and rebrand events last minute. They talk about how creating a vibe is still necessary for internal corporate events. The Event Marketing Maven tells us about how important it is to capture the event for advertising in the future, experimenting with new tech like Tiktok benefits you as the audience gets younger and the new practice of adding CDC Guidelines to your marketing materials.
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Connect with Michelle at www.eventindustrymarketing.com
This week’s episode, Anthony is coming direct from his family vacation in Vegas and has boots on the ground with the experience now as the US opens back up. Vegas is 100% OPEN and Alex has questions like, “To mask or not to mask”. They disseminate over LasVegasMagazine.com’s Vegas2Go TIPPING GUIDE. They talk about the entertainment coming back to the strip from Bruno Mars to Blue Man Group, and even discuss the shows and spaces that Covid cancelled (forever?). Alex asks Anthony about the difficulties with the dining experience when traveling with a group and most outlets that are still closed. The episode ends with a very VEGAS This or That with Alex at the steering wheel.
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Anthony and Alex start this episode with chatter about the recent Home Start San Diego virtual fundraiser and what Anthony feels worked and what would he change in the future. They are joined by singer, producer, performer, talent manager and musical educator Mattie Mills. Mattie fills in Anthony and Alex on how she started turning heads with her Miss Legs title and her moment in the pageant world. Her fascinating time spent touring with Up With People. They discuss what Mattie has learned along the way and how that has contributed to her work, whether performing with Elton John, producing a show for SeaWorld, managing a 12-piece band or attending to her students needs. Alex asks Mattie about how she balances work and personal life and they all muse about The Four Agreements.
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Anthony and Alex are joined by Music Composer and Producer, Marti Amado. Anthony and Alex get into how Marti got her start in the industry that has lead to her to creating for television, film, advertising, animations and a multitude of collaborations and post-scoring for mainstream and indie singer-songwriters. They find out what goes on in Marti's head when a mainstream artist brings her a song that needs her help or what the music needs to evoke when producing for corporate event. They find out what musical artists inspire Marti and how her job has changed in the past year. (Ps. All the music in this episode is from Marti Amado)
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Last week was the Oscars and Anthony and Alex had a lot to discuss, so much that we are giving you this EXTRA HOUR of Oscar Talk. They talk about their "TOP 5" likes and dislikes and here is a special BONUS-FIDE episode.
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Anthony and Alex gives us a #dadjoke, an EDC update and some Oscar talk. Today they are joined by the much respected and multi-talented LEIGH SCARRITT. Leigh Scarritt is not only a triple threat on stage but her titles are also music composer, director, producer and teacher of the arts. Miss Leigh enlightens Anthony and Alex on the importance of training for actors, singers and dancers and becoming a shining example of "Attitude & Gratitude" from the moment you walk through the door. They ask Miss Leigh some heavy hitting questions like the difference between creating a character that lives behind the fourth wall and the presentational style of performance most used in special events, and how one can prepare for the latter. ENJOY!
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This week Alex has been dealing with an impossible situation and she needed to pull in the big guns aka. Anthony as they take this situation as a lesson in client relations. They are joined for a chat about the SEARCH FOUNDATION by KATE PATAY (SEARCH Chair person, PATAY CONSULTING). They talk about the mission and beginning and current reach of the special event industry's crisis relief foundation. Kate gives exclusive details about the SEARCH foundation's upcoming in-person event planned for TSE 2021 this July 21, 2021 in Miami. Kate gives a boots on the ground for Global Meetings Industry Day and positive report on the future of events in Vegas. Anthony and Alex also talk about how Kate "influences the influencers" in the best way and how she can see hope on the horizon. Kate's impassioned insight on the forward motion of the special event industry is unmatched, enjoying listening in on their conversation.
SEARCH FOUNDATION www.searchfoundation.org or Donate Here or Purchase Tickets for July 21 Event at TSE in Miami July 21, 2021
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Find Kate PatayConsulting or my LinkedIn and Instagram
Anthony and Alex are home alone! No guests this week with a grab bag of topics and segments. Alex booked an acting gig. Anthony is hiding eggs from his parents. Anthony and Alex take a closer look at the recent articles by the MCI Group and Epic Presence on trends with takeaways like looking at the emotional analytics when building events and engagements and being mindful with participants, chat bots and even augmented reality in hybrid events. They take a closer dive into the new, fun culinary trends hitting the mass market via. Baseball Parks and Fields around the country. Don't forget about the "WHAT THE B?" segment; the EDC music festival is happening next month and the Wynn Las Vegas has a solution for employees that choose not to get vaccinated for Covid...Brilliance or Bull? (let them know your thoughts at info@bollotta.com)
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Anthony and Alex start the episode with talk from the past weekend's SAG Awards and some banter about Live Events on the horizon. They are joined by SUSAN GRIFFITHS (Actress, Entertainer, Marilyn Monroe Impersonator). Anthony and Alex find out how Susan got her start in the industry and how she has studied Marilyn Monroe to the point of master impersonation. They discuss her live event and performance experiences from Japan to Vegas. Susan talks about her fascinating acting experiences and celebrity interactions both backstage and in front of the cameras on projects like Curb Your Enthusiasm, Pulp Fiction, and Quantum Leap (Alex hearts Scott Bakula). They even talk about that one time shooting the cover of GQ with a less then warm reception from the celebrity on set. We love Susan, listen and fall in love too! Enjoy!
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Anthony and Alex at the top talk about Alex's closet finds, SAG Awards, Alex's upcoming acting gig and Anthony is planning a wedding for a repeat client. They are joined this week by the power couple behind THE FARMHOUSE CATERING's LISA ORR (CEO) and GRAYDON ORR (Executive Chef & Founder of Farmhouse Catering and CEO of ATARAXIS ART GROUP) of THE FARMHOUSE CATERING. They talk about Lisa's background education in hospitality and her vast experience in event production and why she loves the event industry. Graydon joins for the latter half of the conversation and together the discussion focuses on family life, how The Farmhouse Catering has managed to keep chugging along in the face of the pandemic and forecasting what is next. ENJOY!
TIMESTAMPS
00:04:34 SAG and TV Talk
00:13: 16 Anthony Wedding Planning Talk
00:21:25 Lisa Orr Interview
00:45:50 Graydon Orr Joins the Conversation
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Find Lisa and Graydon | THE FARMHOUSE CATERING at www.thefarmhousecatering.com
Episode 23 starts with Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis start this episode with musings of Alex's gig acting in Virtual Murder Mysteries. They are joined by Denise Desjardins, Mitel User Group Liason. As most of the world has just embraced virtual meetings in 2020, Denise in her position at Mitel has been producing virtual meetings and content for the past 5 years and she shares valuable insight that only someone with her experience has. Anthony and Alex dive into what keeps this pro up at night and how she manages to keep the message fresh when using technology. Together they reminisce on their fabulous experiences with Jay Leno and even that one time in Paris. Enjoy!
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back at the BOLLOTTA-FIDE game. This episode starts with a Grammy 2021 recap from the dynamic duo as they discuss the production, host, performances and why can't Anthony look away from BTS and that's ok. Multi-Grammy Winning, Pablo "CHINO" Nunez stopped in to talk music. Anthony and Alex catch up Chino an accomplished percussionist, producer, composer, arranger, instrumentalist, educator, recording artist...etc (!) to discuss his beginnings in music, winning grammy awards, producing music and performing live in this heart felt interview. They also talk about Chino's work on Broadway, performing at the Lincoln Center and past corporate gigs with top tier clients. ENJOY!
Timestamps
00:03:26 GRAMMY RECAP
00:19:29 CHINO NUNEZ INTERVIEW
01:02:00 THIS or THAT
01:14:00 That's Allotta B STINGER
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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Back with Bollotta-FIDE! Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Joe Jeff Goldblatt. Dr. Joe is an author, professor, speaker, consultant and "foremost authority in the world of events" (Wiley & Sons Publishing), and comes to Bollotta-FIDE brimming with industry knowledge and heart. Their discussion touches on Dr. Joe Jeff Goldblatt's beginnings in performing magic illusions, producing events for powerhouse names like Oprah Winfrey and following Robert Frost's advice to "take the road less traveled by..." all the way to Scotland. Sit back (or forward) and enjoy the many nuggets of wisdom and experience.
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
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Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back with another episode of Bollotta-FIDE. Today they are joined by America's Sassiest Lifstyle Guru, STEVE KEMBLE. Steve brings his sass and class to this episode in only the way he can. The event industry pros discuss the 2021 Golden Globe productions, fashions and flubs. Anthony and Steve catch up about events now and moving forward after the pandemic. Who is going to The Special Event in July and why it's important to connect with other industry professionals now more than ever. This is a GREAT convo...prepare to giggle!
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
THANK YOU for listening!
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Bollotta-FIDE is back with host Anthony Bollotta and his sidekick Alex Apostolidis chit chat about the upcoming Golden Globes. No guests this episode just some good ole fluff and fodder. Anthony has done his research about the production as a whole. They chit chat about the cohosts, the Hollywood Foreign Press and lots of random Golden Globe trivia. There's confusion about the Carol Burnett Award. Anthony and Alex talk about the shows they have seen and haven't seen and what they will cram in before Sunday.
ASK ANTHONY at www.bollotta.com/podcast
THANK YOU for listening!
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This week Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis interview Chapman Stick Musician Tom Griesgraber. Tom has been part of the Bollotta Roster and Anthony and Alex get to take the moment and get to know the man behind the "STICK". The Chapman Stick is an interesting 2 hand active instrument and was an instant attraction to the self proclaimed "music nerd". Talking to audiences and corporate guests as while playing. Stories from the tours that include being billed as "Tom Grease-burger" and the time in Italy when the crowd rushed them like the Beatles for merch. They also touch on Tom's other projects in music production and audio engineering, learning music at Berkley, playing cover music and writing his own music. Anthony also asks Tom for his advice to other musicians pursuing work in corporate events.
Ask Anthony: www.bollotta.com/podcast
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The track used in background is "77 Times" from Tom's album "A Whisper in the Thunder". This interview and live portions of the music were recorded via. ZOOM.
Super Bowl LV was this past Sunday and Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis have 2 Sport Event Producers join them in this Super Sized episode. They are first joined by Nancy Spooner-Basharah (owner of TEMPO LIVE EVENTS, a virtual and live production and staffing firm). Nancy tells us Bollotta-FIDE about how the tools have changed but it's still her job to get a client's message out to their audience, what she's looking for when she is hiring freelancers and how her Tempo Think Tank has been a help over the past year. Amy Murray (Senior Producer at FiveCurrent) stops in and divulges details of her very specific and fascinating experiences at past Super Bowl games. The crew all discuss SUPER BOWL LV together and lots of insider behind the scene chat. Bollotta-FIDE must have these guests back!
Ask Anthony: www.bollotta.com/podcast
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Timestamps
00:02:58 Anthony & Alex talk SuperBowl Entertainment
00:15:33 Nancy Spooner-Bshara (TEMPO LIVE EVENTS)
00:46:47 Amy Murray (FiveCurrent)
Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis talk about their recent foray into stand-up comedy and their pre-show nerves before their first show Saturday. They are joined by the masterful, ever evolving LESLIE JUVIN-ACKER (Leslie Inc) from the streaming series VALUABLE INSIGHT and author (The Money Formula, Drive), creator of the blog LAW SCHOOL FOR VISUAL LEARNERS, former Executive Coach and Medium. Leslie discusses the need for self-branding what is the story you are telling as a brand. Anthony asks Leslie about controlling the inner narrative and using solution based thinking when dealing with business and life and knowing that your story isn't over. Leslie also fits in spiritual readings for Anthony and Alex...Also, a new game.
Timestamps
Funny Talk: 00:04:09
Leslie Interview: 00:17:50
Word Association Game: 01:14:55
Spiritual Reading: 01:18:05
Tickets for FEB 6 Finding Your Funny Comedy Show (Anthony and Alex's gig): https://ticketbud.com/events/0873b766-42f5-11eb-8b10-42010a71700f
Ask Anthony: www.bollotta.com/podcast
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Find Leslie Juvin-Acker: www.leslieinc.org Subconscious Instruction Cards Mentioned In The Show: https://www.leslieinc.org/subconscious-instructions Valuable Insight Youtube Series: https://www.leslieinc.org/valuableinsight Leslie Inc Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl6-XRM8p7LJzCsbbzb1bRQ
Supersize episode alert! Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back at the mics with another new segment That's Allotta B where they discuss is a situation is Brilliant or Bullshlaka. They give their thoughts on the event and performance aspects of Presidential Inauguration, with some FUN FACTS. The are joined by Andrew Johnson from the band FULL STRENGTH. Andrew enlightens the Pod about booking and managing a band with more than 10+ members and all the successes and sometimes harrowing challenges that can arise over time with an ensemble this size. FULL STRENGTH is one of Bollotta Entertainment's roster standouts and hearing stories about how the show MUST go on (except this one time a guy had a gun- seriously, listen). The conversation was fun and they sidelined about Andrew's personal background, it's all here. Enjoy!
Timestamps
4:06:00 That's Allotta B
16:38:00 Inaugural Talk
32:27:00 Full Strength's Andrew Johnson
1:28:00 This or That
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send your event & entertainment questions to info@bollotta.com or submit on the quick form at www.bollotta.com/podcast
The much anticipated PART 2 of Bollotta-FIDE's interview with JACLYN BERNSTEIN of EMPIRE FORCE EVENTS. This one is full of fun chatter and the moments were too good to edit out. Anthony Bollotta kvells over Jaclyn's Lifetime Achievement Award from The Special Event and Event Solutions AND BizBash! Alex Apostolidis stalks Jaclyn's fabulous shoes in her pod research. They discuss the importance of industry connections through ILEA, MPI and Trade Shows and Jaclyn's genuine love for the special event industry. Jaclyn's once in a lifetime NYE in Times Square experience. They talk about industry peeps and life experiences of everyone's favorite Crazy Aunt Jac, and the most proud event moments with organizations like the Live Events Coalition and Event Pros Ready to Serve. A fun This or That segment and lots of love. Jaclyn Bernstein certainly is Bollotta-FIDE! LOVE HER!
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send your event & entertainment questions to info@bollotta.com or www.bollotta.com/bollotta-fide
Contact Jaclyn at jbernstein@empireforce.com or follow her on IG @jaclyn_bernstein
Back at it with another "IT'S RISKY B" segment where Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis discussing FORCE MAJURE contract clauses and what to be clear about in your contract verbiage. Then they are joined by the boisterous and beloved JACLYN BERNSTEIN, president and founder of EMPIRE FORCE EVENTS. This interview is so good that we had to spit it into 2 parts. Jaclyn gives an insider view with boots on the ground in New York City as the owner of an Event Design, Production and Destination Management company. They talk about how pulling together with industry people during this crisis lead to impactful moments with the NY/NJ Branch of the Live Event Coalition have helped keep a sense of sanity and purpose. Anthony gets Jaclyn's thoughts on what's still needed to make a successful event when going virtual and next steps in going hybrid. Like and Subscribe for part 2 next week!
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Follow @bollottaentertainment on IG
send your event & entertainment questions to info@bollotta.com
Contact Jaclyn at jbernstein@empireforce.com or follow her on IG @jaclyn_bernstein
First Interview of 2021! This episode starts with Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis discussing their first stand-up comedy class and the premier of the new "IT'S RISKY B" segment, where the talk will focus on risk management (weather, safety, travel, etc) in special events. This episode's "It's Risky B" focuses on the Event Safety Alliance Reopening Guide. They about are joined by "rule follower" Rachel Peniche, Executive Director of Friends of Vista Hill and President of Plan It San Diego in this supersized episode with a focus on philanthropic and non-profit events. They discuss taking inspiration from theater and cinema to create an exciting successful event, including children in normally adult-centric events and letting go of the word "Gala". They even touch upon the forward thinking needed for fundraising in a post-pandemic world. Enjoy!
Lean more about Friends of Vista Hill: www.vistahill.org
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Send your Entertainment and "It's Risky B" Questions to: info@bollotta.com (subject: Bollotta-FIDE)
Download the Event Safety Alliance Reopening Guide
It's the first week of the 2021 and Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back to chitter chat about what they watched on New Years Eve and the different productions on the major channel celebrations. They talk about their S.H.S. when confronted with Billy Porter's S.H.S., Mariah Carey vs. JLO's holiday appearances, Who's Doctor Elvis, Cyndi's production issue and more. They talk Presidential Inauguration and how the event is going virtual and how they are planning on making the virtual event interactive and the also reveal the names of some of their planned upcoming guests.
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Send your event & entertainment questions to info@bollotta.com subject: BOLLOTTA-FIDE
(recorded 01/05/21)
Holiday Special Part 2. Reminder, this ep is NSFW (Not Safe For Work) & contains some colorful language.
A continuation with Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis joined by Susanna Spies. They talk about age, Tiktok and the Bell Pepper Challenge, MOIST TROUSERS, how they receive Christmas gifts, and what's happening with event venues during the pandemic. The gross word "TRANCH" and how it applies to your life, Watermelon Juice and the crappier moments in life (literally).
Find Susanna and her classes: www.susannaspies.com
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Send your event & entertainment questions to info@bollotta.com subject: BOLLOTTA-FIDE
Holiday Special Part 1. This episode is NSFW & contains some colorful language. Please listen at your own risk. ;)
The Humor Activist Susanna Spies joins our Bollotta-FIDE hosts Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis to talk about a ton of funny Sh*t! Susanna talks about her upcoming book, pushing through emotional adversity and teaching comedy and public speaking to kids and CEO's alike. Also, Anthony and Alex gear up to take Susanna's FINDING YOUR FUNNY class series starting in January.
Find Susanna and her classes: www.susannaspies.com
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Send your event & entertainment questions to info@bollotta.com subject: BOLLOTTA-FIDE
The Bollotta Edition of the Christmas Waltz:
- “The Christmas Waltz” was written by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn for Frank Sinatra, who recorded it in 1954.
- Vocals: Anthony Bollotta, Marti Amado, Emma Gunn, Conner Smith, Alex Apostolidis, Wayne Barker, Dangilo Brian Bonilla, Daniel Wentworth, Wissam Sabbagha
- Produced by: Amado Music
- Engineered by: Mike Harris
-
Recorded, Engineered, Mixed & Mastered at: Studio West
-
Arranged by: Wayne Barker
- Piano: Wayne Barker
- Upright Bass: Justin Grinnell
- Drums: Duncan Moore
- Jazz Guitar: Bob Boss
- Trumpet: Karl Soukop
The word of the day is "YES". Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis talk about saying, "YES" to change, parenting, opportunity and what's next. They are joined by the well-respected forward-thinking multi-hyphenate emcee, disc jockey, game show host, illusionist, virtual entertainer, straitjacket escapee Philip Chancellor of 5150 Productions. They talk about taking his amazing television-licensed game shows from in-person to online during quarantine. Alex and Anthony need to know more about bungee jumping in a straitjacket. What needs to happen to please a client when facing a challenge and an exclusive about bringing the magic back.
www.bollotta.com
Email event entertainment questions and challenges to info@bollotta.com with the SUBJECT: BOLLOTTA-FIDE!
(this episode was recorded 08/2020)
Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back and we are in the midst of the Holiday Season. Alex talks about hiding Christmas and Hanukkah gifts and Anthony talks mitzvahs. They are joined today by event maven and established planner Sherrill Kinsler Gilford the founder of RSVP Events. They talk mitzvah market, crazy event stories and how to handle clients that just don't care about social distancing. Sherrill lets us know what she is good at and how she can pull an event together with the visions in her head. They talk about BESA (Bar/BatMitvah Event Service Association), MITZ TV, socially distanced solutions and hybrid social events.
IF I WERE A RICHMAN performed by Anthony Bollotta & Jorge Luis | Music Director: Rayme Sciaroni
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Email event entertainment questions and challenges to info@bollotta.com with the SUBJECT: BOLLOTTA-FIDE!
(this interview was recorded early 11/04/2020)
This one starts with our host Anthony Bollotta and co-host Alex Apostolidis free talking about recent events they have been working on during the pandemic. They discuss transparency with budget and how the newer challenges and logistics of virtual and socially distanced events have clients expecting more and how to set boundaries on "SCOPE CREEP". They are joined by Nicole Matthews the author, host of The Big Ask podcast, and president of the event, travel and lifestyle concierge firm The Henley Company . They discuss personal expectations in day to day life, surrounding yourself socially with a "council of professionals", and setting yourself up with resources and partners whose qualities and standard compliment your own. Nicole talks about what is the most important factors to keep in mind when booking entertainment, the need to be flexible and the more Scope Creep.
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Santa is coming to ZOOM (with a few friends) More info at: www.bollotta.com/virtual-Santa
Send questions to info@bollotta.com with the subject heading: Bollotta-FIDE
Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are joined by the musical multihyphenate Kenny Ard. The pianist-showman-businessman-college professor-cabaret staple talks about teaching college level musical courses during the pandemic, Injecting new life into past projects and how rehearsing your material and setup makes for a smooth quality performance. Also, Anthony breaks down his thoughts on California Assembly Bill 5 (aka AB5).
www.bollotta.com
Santa is coming to ZOOM (with a few friends) More info at: www.bollotta.com/virtual-Santa
Send questions to info@bollotta.com with the subject heading: Bollotta-FIDE
(this episode was recorded August 2020, before the new microphones wink)
GOBBLE GOBBLE! Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis present the Bollotta-FIDE Thanksgivings Special. They discuss their ideal Thanksgiving Holiday plans. Anthony talks about that one time in Vegas for Turkey Day and reveals a secret about his board position at Home Start San Diego. Alex and Anthony share some heartfelt sentiments and stories and they take an audio journey up North for a special surprise.
Consider giving to Home Start San Diego to prevent and treat child abuse: https://home-start.org/give-home-start/
Santa is coming to ZOOM (with a few friends) More info at: www.bollotta.com/virtual-Santa
Send questions to info@bollotta.com with the subject heading: Bollotta-FIDE
(this episode was recorded 10/28/20)
Helllllloooooooo, Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis are back and chit chatting at the top about engaging an audience online and their recent personal experiences with online schooling, non-profit and corporate events. They are joined by Cindy Smartt of Smartt Entertainment and discuss celebrity and headliner bookings for virtual events, engaging an audience with surprises and activities as they are stuck behind their screens, and the keeping client's informed and happy.
www.bollotta.com
Santa Claus is coming to ZOOM? We have the big man and a few of his friends taking appointments this holiday season to entertain and engage your little ones. Check it out: www.bollotta.com/virtual-sant
BONUS EP! Bollotta-FIDE had the opportunity to take part in the digital grand opening of the GLOBAL EVENT CENTER the new virtual platform by our friends at JR GLOBAL EVENTS and the conversation was too important and to good to keep from our listeners. In this BONUS episode Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis had the chance to interview Jennafer Ross about her female powered business, their new digital platform, Zoom fatigue and engaging your audience all while Jennafer was on the road fleeing a literal hurricane. Jennafer is the first guest to take the THIS or THAT quiz twice and Anthony & Alex get loopy and giggly. PS. PIVOT!
At the top of this episode Anthony Bollotta spends some time shining the spotlight on his illustrious cohost Alex Apostolidis. Anthony finds out Alex's performance roots and who is "The Voice Inside Your Head". Anthony and Alex were also joined by the husband and wife power duo behind NRG MUSIC & PRODUCTIONS; Kymm Civetta and Andy Salmonsen. Together they take a trip down memory lane, discuss the creative vs. business process and how they are pushing forward the right way into virtual performances and audience connection.
www.bollotta.com
Anthony Bollotta and Alex Apostolidis start this episode with a discussion about comedy and how "Funny is a Serious Business". Following their gab session, they are joined by comedian Don Friesen (ASK YOUR MOM, INEXPLICABLE). They discuss Don's start in the business, how he keeps corporate clients laughing and the work and adjusting involved when performing for Television, Live or Virtual Special Events.
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Anthony and Alex start today's show with the Anthony's WTFs (WHAT THE FOCUS) to think about when considering virtual entertainment. Following their discussion they are joined by premier magician Derek Ostovani. Anthony, Alex and Derek talk about what it means to go the extra steps to elevate everyone's experience and what it takes to be a performer making magic as a career and adapting to ever changing world.
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The pilot episode of Bollotta-Fide. Who is Anthony Bollotta and why in the world does he think he has the right to Bollotta-fy anything? Get to know Anthony Bollotta through his sidekick Alex Apostolidis' in-depth interview about life, business and what is next in the world of Special Event Entertainment.