• Eggs 445: The Key to Success: Spotting Market Gaps with Jay Sapovits
    Dec 18 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Jay Sapovits shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of identifying market gaps, taking action, and building relationships. He discusses his transition from various industries to founding Ink'd Stores, emphasizing creativity in branded products and the significance of authenticity in business. Jay also addresses the challenges posed by social media and the AI revolution, encouraging listeners to define success on their own terms and to remain genuine in their endeavors.


    Takeaways

    • Every entrepreneurial journey is unique and often non-linear.
    • Identifying gaps in the market starts with personal experiences.
    • Taking action is crucial; inaction is a greater risk.
    • Building relationships is key to success in business.
    • Creativity and ideation can elevate branded products.
    • Authenticity in communication sets you apart in business.
    • The pressure of social media can be overwhelming for entrepreneurs.
    • Success is subjective; it can be defined in many ways.
    • Navigating the AI revolution requires a unique human perspective.
    • Giving more than you receive fosters long-lasting relationships.


    Chapters

    00:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins

    02:12 Identifying Market Gaps

    06:09 Taking Action on Opportunities

    12:06 The Importance of Persistence

    18:08 Navigating Challenges in Entrepreneurship

    21:58 The Impact of Social Media on Entrepreneurs

    27:13 Transitioning from Live Events to Marketing

    30:32 The Power of Sales in Entrepreneurship

    33:42 Building Relationships and Connecting People

    39:31 Lessons Learned from a Transactional Mindset

    45:04 Crafting a Personal Lifestyle through Career Choices

    46:57 The Shift to Ink'd Stores and Creative Branding

    49:51 Elevating Branded Products in a Competitive Market

    54:26 Authenticity in Content Creation and Business


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    59 mins
  • Eggs 444: The Hidden Cost of Delegation with Kayvon Kay
    Dec 11 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Kayvon Kay, Mike, and Ryan Roghaar explore the themes of identity, commitment, and the importance of genuine communication in achieving success. They discuss how personal identity shapes actions and outcomes, the pitfalls of merely stating intentions without real commitment, and the significance of measuring productivity through clear goals. The discussion also delves into the art of conversation, emphasizing the need for curiosity and connection over self-centered dialogue. Finally, they touch on the impact of internal biases and the importance of self-reflection in personal growth.


    Takeaways

    • Kayvon's journey from corporate sales to entrepreneurship was driven by a desire for freedom.
    • The importance of mental toughness in overcoming challenges is crucial for success.
    • Resourcefulness can lead to unexpected opportunities and solutions.
    • Success in sales often comes from building relationships rather than just selling products.
    • Many people don't know what they truly want in life and need to define their goals.
    • Money can bring happiness, but it amplifies who you are as a person.
    • People often underestimate what they can achieve in five years while overestimating one year.
    • The grass is greener where you water it; focus on your own growth.
    • Defining your own dreams is essential in a world filled with external influences.
    • The B Do Have concept emphasizes the importance of action in achieving goals. Success is about becoming who you want to be first.
    • People often confuse stating intentions with taking action.
    • Productivity is more important than busyness.
    • Effective communication is about asking questions and listening.
    • Self-identity plays a crucial role in achieving goals.
    • Expectations can lead to disappointment; commitment is key.
    • Understanding your biases can help in personal growth.
    • Conversations should focus on the other person, not yourself.
    • Silence can be powerful in conversations.
    • Self-reflection is essential for overcoming internal barriers.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Kayvon Kay and His Journey

    03:01 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

    06:00 The Struggles of Starting a Business

    09:09 The Power of Resourcefulness

    12:07 Finding Success in Sales

    15:06 The Importance of Mental Toughness

    18:00 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Clarity

    21:02 The Role of Passion in Achieving Goals

    24:05 Understanding True Happiness and Wealth

    26:59 The Grass is Greener Where You Water It

    29:51 Defining Your Own Dreams

    32:50 The B Do Have Concept

    39:24 The Power of Identity in Success

    42:55 The Illusion of Action vs. Real Commitment

    46:55 Measuring Productivity and Setting Goals

    48:15 The Art of Conversation and Connection

    56:03 Understanding Internal Biases and Self-Reflection


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Eggs 443: Closing the Gap Between Belief and Breakthrough with David Neagle
    Dec 4 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, David Neagle shares his transformative journey from a struggling forklift operator to a successful entrepreneur and author of The Millions Within. He discusses the pivotal moments that changed his mindset, the difference between faith and belief, and the importance of taking action towards one's goals. Neagle emphasizes the need to identify what one truly wants and to trust the process, while also addressing the common pitfalls of self-sabotage and doubt. His insights provide a roadmap for listeners seeking to achieve their own success.


    Takeaways

    • David Neagle's journey began with significant struggles, including bankruptcy and repossession.
    • A pivotal moment in Neagle's life was when he changed his attitude, leading to a tripling of his income.
    • Belief is an active process, requiring alignment of thoughts, emotions, and actions.
    • Self-sabotage often stems from subconscious patterns that resist change.
    • Identifying what you truly want is crucial for personal growth and success.
    • Saying yes to what you want and no to what you don't want can clear the path to your desires.
    • Trusting the process and being open to opportunities is essential for achieving goals.
    • The importance of following your heart and desires rather than societal expectations.
    • Neagle emphasizes that money is often an effect, not a cause of success.
    • The answers to personal fulfillment and success lie within each individual.


    Chapters

    00:00 David Neagle's Journey from Struggle to Success

    07:57 Understanding Faith vs. Belief

    14:36 The Role of Action in Achieving Goals

    23:25 Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Limiting Beliefs

    31:09 Discovering Your True Desires

    31:35 Discovering Passion and Purpose

    32:16 The Spiritual Quest for Direction

    35:35 Breaking Subconscious Patterns

    36:29 The Power of Desire and Responsibility

    39:22 Nature's Lessons on Attraction and Success

    44:19 The Influence of Mentorship

    47:41 Navigating the Gap Between Belief and Action

    53:42 Trusting the Process of Discovery

    57:56 The Secret Within: Following Your Heart


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    59 mins
  • Eggs 442: The Power of Storytelling in Business Strategy with Guillaume Wiatr
    Nov 27 2025

    Summary

    In this engaging conversation, Guillaume Wiatr, a business strategy consultant and leadership coach, shares his insights on the importance of crafting a strong strategic narrative for businesses. He discusses his journey from France to the U.S., the role of leadership in narrative development, and how employee engagement can shape a company's direction. Guillaume emphasizes that a narrative is a living document that should evolve over time, and he encourages entrepreneurs to embrace a growth mindset while letting go of the pressure to have everything figured out. Through case studies and personal anecdotes, he illustrates the power of storytelling in aligning teams and driving business success.


    Takeaways

    • Guillaume emphasizes the importance of a strong strategic narrative for business success.
    • He believes that businesses should be viewed as groups of people working towards a common hope.
    • A narrative is a system of stories, while a story has a defined beginning, middle, and end.
    • Leadership plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining a company's narrative.
    • Employee engagement is vital for shaping a company's narrative and direction.
    • Guillaume's approach to consulting includes listening to employees' stories to inform the narrative.
    • The narrative should evolve over time as the business context changes.
    • A mission statement should be a living document that reflects the company's journey.
    • Guillaume advocates for a growth mindset in developing a narrative.
    • He encourages entrepreneurs to let go of the pressure to have everything figured out before sharing their narrative.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Guillaume Wiatr and His Journey

    08:57 The Immigrant Experience and Building Relationships

    16:04 The Importance of Narrative in Business

    23:47 Evolving Narratives and Authenticity in Entrepreneurship

    28:44 The Structure of Stories and Narratives

    34:07 Crafting Mission Statements and Narratives

    40:51 Navigating Leadership and Narrative Creation

    48:11 The Role of Leadership in Shaping Narratives

    56:30 The Importance of Employee Involvement in Narratives


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Eggs 441: The Future of Marketing: AI and Programmatic Advertising
    Nov 20 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Chris Carr, a digital marketing expert and founder of Farotech, discusses the evolution of marketing with a focus on AI and programmatic advertising. He shares insights on how AI is reshaping the marketing landscape, the importance of personalized targeting, and the relevance of email marketing. The discussion also touches on the implications of the metaverse for advertising and the necessity of adapting to new technologies. Chris emphasizes the importance of understanding one's audience and the need for businesses to retain customers rather than just seeking new traffic.


    Takeaways

    • Chris Carr has been in digital marketing for over 22 years.
    • AI is becoming integral to modern marketing strategies.
    • Programmatic advertising offers hyper-personalized targeting capabilities.
    • Email marketing remains a crucial tool for businesses.
    • The metaverse presents new opportunities and challenges for advertising.
    • Understanding customer behavior is key to effective marketing.
    • Businesses must focus on retaining customers, not just acquiring them.
    • The speed of technological advancement is unprecedented.
    • Marketers need to adapt to changes in consumer behavior due to AI.
    • Owning your audience is essential for long-term success.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

    00:13 Chris Carr's Background and Digital Marketing Agency

    01:48 The Future of Marketing with AI

    12:10 Understanding Programmatic Advertising

    16:18 The Value of Data in Marketing

    17:36 Building and Maintaining an Email List

    19:35 The Role of Email Marketing in a Digital Age

    22:51 AI's Impact on Marketing and Communication

    25:25 The Future of AI and Its Rapid Evolution

    29:02 Navigating the Challenges of AI in the Workforce

    32:33 The Metaverse: Opportunities and Ethical Concerns

    45:32 The Education System and Its Adaptation to Technology

    50:20 Self-Education in the Digital Age

    52:51 The Limitations of Current Technology

    54:42 Marketing Strategies: Filling the Bucket

    57:51 Building Relationships and Networking


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    59 mins
  • Eggs 440: Experiential Marketing in the AI Age with Ondar Tarlow
    Nov 13 2025

    Summary

    In this engaging conversation, marketing consultant Ondar Tarlow shares his journey from finance to the world of action sports and marketing. He discusses the rise of action sports, the impact of brands like Red Bull, and the importance of data-driven marketing for small businesses. Ondar emphasizes the need for flexibility in marketing strategies, especially with the advent of AI, and highlights the significance of community and storytelling in building brand loyalty. He offers valuable insights for aspiring marketers and reflects on the future of marketing in a rapidly changing landscape.


    Takeaways

    • Ondar Tarlow has a diverse background in marketing across various industries.
    • His passion for action sports led to a successful pivot from finance to marketing.
    • The rise of action sports and F1 has been fueled by increased accessibility and media exposure.
    • Brands like Red Bull have successfully tapped into niche communities to build loyalty.
    • Data-driven marketing is essential for small businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape.
    • Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in marketing strategies, especially with AI advancements.
    • Creating compelling stories around events can enhance audience engagement.
    • Building relationships with big brands requires understanding their audience and challenges.
    • Community and philanthropy play a significant role in modern marketing strategies.
    • The future of marketing will rely on unique perspectives and personal branding.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Ondar Tarlow and His Background

    03:08 Transitioning from Finance to Action Sports Marketing

    06:15 The Rise of Action Sports and F1 in the U.S.

    09:13 The Lifestyle Aspect of F1 and Accessibility

    11:59 The Role of Brands in Action Sports

    15:16 Data-Driven Marketing for Small Businesses

    19:20 Common Mistakes in AI Marketing

    23:25 Techniques for Effective Data Tracking

    27:54 The Optimistic Future of AI and Human Experience

    29:42 Turning Events into Engaging Stories

    32:30 Acquiring Big Clients: Strategies and Techniques

    34:17 Building Brand Affinity Through Community

    36:49 The Role of Community and Philanthropy in Marketing

    41:57 Creating Unique Experiences for Exclusive Communities

    44:48 The Importance of Personal Branding in Marketing

    53:09 Marketing Truths in a Changing Landscape


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    58 mins
  • Eggs 439: The Art of Hard Work: Avoiding the "Talent" Trap with Kevin Murphy
    Nov 6 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Kevin Murphy recounts his inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing in the Bronx to building a thriving career as an illustrator and entrepreneur. He highlights how hard work, confidence, and taking risks are essential to success in the arts. Kevin discusses the crucial role of education and mentorship in honing artistic skills, questioning the idea that talent alone determines achievement. Alongside Ryan Roghaar, he explores themes such as talent versus training, the impact of mentorship, and the importance of experience in artistic growth. Together, they emphasize that success—whether in art or any field—is less about innate talent and more about dedication, effort, and guidance. The conversation also underscores the value of mastering fundamentals and facing the fear of failure, showing how these elements lead to personal growth and empowerment through creative expression.


    Takeaways

    • Kevin grew up poor and faced many challenges.
    • He struggled academically but found a passion for reading and art.
    • Kevin transitioned from construction work to illustration without knowing the odds.
    • He emphasizes hard work over talent in achieving success.
    • Kevin founded Evolve Artist to provide accessible art education.
    • Confidence is built through taking risks and proving oneself.
    • The importance of mentorship and learning from others in the field.
    • Art can be a metaphor for risk-taking in life.
    • The program at Evolve Artist is designed for all skill levels.
    • Success in art comes from dedication and the right education. Choosing the right mentor can significantly impact your success.
    • Talent is often a result of training and effort, not just innate ability.
    • Understanding the fundamentals is crucial for artistic development.
    • Experience plays a vital role in skill acquisition and mastery.
    • Mindset and overcoming fear of failure are essential for growth.
    • Art can be a means of personal enrichment and expression.
    • Investing time in practice can lead to significant improvement.
    • The journey of learning art is about the process, not just the outcome.
    • Everyone has the potential to create and express themselves artistically.
    • Commitment to your craft can lead to unexpected opportunities and fulfillment.


    Chapters


    00:00 From Humble Beginnings to Artistic Success

    10:04 Building a Business: The Evolve Artist Journey

    20:05 The Importance of Confidence and Risk-Taking in Art

    29:58 Talent vs. Hard Work: The Real Path to Mastery

    33:35 The Importance of Choosing the Right Mentor

    36:10 Talent vs. Training: The Real Path to Success

    39:04 Understanding the Fundamentals of Art

    43:53 The Role of Experience in Skill Development

    50:13 Mindset and Overcoming Fear of Failure

    57:10 Empowerment Through Art and Personal Growth


    Check out Evolve Artist and get a special deal. Learn more here: https://evolveartist.com/eggs


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

    Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    @djontic on twitter


    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Eggs 438: Mixing for the Human Element with Chris Leonard
    Oct 30 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Chris Leonard shares his extensive journey in the live audio industry, detailing his early experiences, the transition to professional gigs, and the intricacies of monitor mixing versus front of house mixing. He discusses the role of technology in live sound, the challenges of life on the road compared to corporate audio work, and his involvement in high-profile events like presidential inaugurations and the Super Bowl victory parade. Chris emphasizes the strategic planning and technical expertise required for large-scale events, providing insights into the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating memorable live experiences. In this conversation, Chris Leonard discusses his journey from a sound technician to a management role in the audio production industry. He shares insights on the importance of empathy in leadership, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his passion for podcasting and documenting the history of live sound. The discussion highlights the evolution of the industry, the economic complexities involved, and the innovative spirit that drives sound professionals.


    Takeaways

    • Chris Leonard has nearly 20 years in the live audio business.
    • He started working in audio at a young age, influenced by his father.
    • Transitioning from small gigs to major artists requires dedication and time.
    • Monitor mixing is significantly more complex than front-of-house mixing.
    • Technology like virtual playback is changing the live sound landscape.
    • Life on the road can be challenging for audio professionals with families.
    • Corporate audio work offers more stability compared to touring.
    • High-profile events require meticulous planning and execution.
    • Time alignment of speakers is crucial for large events.
    • Collaboration with other companies is common for large-scale productions. It's all about having resources.
    • The director's role grew with the company.
    • Management skills come from touring experiences.
    • Empathy is a valuable tool in management.
    • Studying people helps in understanding their perspectives.
    • Passion drives people in the sound industry.
    • The history of live sound is often overlooked.
    • COVID-19 forced the industry to pivot to virtual events.
    • Innovation is key in the evolution of live sound.
    • The economic side of the sound industry is complex.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Chris Leonard and His Journey

    02:46 Early Experiences in Live Audio

    06:05 Transitioning to Professional Gigs

    08:50 Understanding Monitor vs. Front of House Mixing

    11:58 The Role of Technology in Live Sound

    14:57 Life on the Road vs. Corporate Audio

    18:09 High-Profile Events: Inaugurations and Super Bowl Parades

    32:19 Transitioning from Technician to Manager

    39:05 The Journey into Podcasting

    46:45 Capturing the History of Live Sound

    56:06 Adapting to the Pandemic: Challenges and Innovations


    Credits:

    Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

    Produced by Ryan Roghaar

    Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

    The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

    bit.ly/eggstunes


    The Plugs:

    The Show: eggscast.com

    @eggshow on X and Instagram


    On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

    Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

    Also available on Google Play Music!


    Mike "DJ Ontic":

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    Ryan Roghaar:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

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    1 hr and 4 mins