PLAY PODCASTS
Light Talk with The Lumen Brothers

Light Talk with The Lumen Brothers

491 episodes — Page 4 of 10

S7 Ep 341LIGHT TALK Episode 341 - "Stop Making Sense!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from David Byrne to "The Book of Mormon Podcast". Join Brackley, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Snoot and Rudy; Brackley's view on the Sphere; The LDI Portfolio Review; Beverly Emmons, Wendall Harrington, and The Talking Heads' new "Stop Making Sense" restoration release; Working with co-designers; Getting over your hatred of working in the theatre; The "Distinctive Color Picker"; and The greatest gobo of all time. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Oct 14, 202343 min

S7 Ep 340LIGHT TALK Episode 340 - "This Show Has Gone to the Dogs!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from U2 to Louie the Chihuahua. Join Stan, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Not getting credit for the work you do; The curse of being ahead of your timel; Being a goldfish; Should you share color ideas at early design meetings?; What to do when your friend and collaborator is fired from a show; "Budget in a Box"; The Sphere in Las Vegas; Studio Populus; How this affects future consumer entertainment technology; Someone is making a lot of money; and Dogs at teachnical rehearsals. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Oct 7, 202345 min

S7 Ep 339LIGHT TALK Episode 339 - "Iguanas Nibbling Toes"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) discuss everything from Priceless Lighting Angles to Where is My Assistant?... Join Ellen, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: The writers strike is over!; Cueing Processes; Working over rehearsals; The "Design Score"; The best way to learn how to program specific lighting consoles; Bad Discoveries; What if there are no overhead lighting positions?; "Career Maker!"; Brava, Tayler Swift!; Where are all the Assistant Lighting Designers?; Solar Heated Iquana Pens; Being a nice person; "LIGHT TALK from The Sphere"; Old production books; and U2 vs. LDI. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Sep 30, 202337 min

S7 Ep 338LIGHT TALK Episode 338 - "SHYSTERS!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from The Las Vegas Sphere, to Being a Jerk, Rude, and Generally Unpleasant. Join Brackley, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Not receiving your last fee payment; Small claims court; Protecting yourself with contracts; "Shystettes"; How to deal with cheap clients; Being paid by "The Lord"; Shysters in training; Dealing with friends who do not wish to sign contracts; Entertainment lawyers; Club owners; Working with people with bad reputations; Do you really need an entertainment attorney?; Protecting your intellectural property; Do you need liability insurance?; How to deal with fight calls; and The benefits of not being liked. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Sep 23, 202344 min

S7 Ep 337LIGHT TALK Episode 337 - "Technology Transferred" - A Conversation with Richard Cadena and Neel Vasavada"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) welcome guests Richard Cadena and Neel Vasavada to the show. They discuss everything from Tesla Journeys to "The Chicken and Waffle Guy". Join Neel, Richard, Ellen, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Sustainable Power Distriubution in our industry; Battery inverted systems for the stage; Burning Man technology; The "Skin Effect"; "Overdrive Energy Solutions"; Hybridizing; Entertainment lighting returning to Direct Current; Dog Mode; Working with Billie Eilish and her family; Willie Nelson; Are promoters really interested in sustainable energy?; "The Toaster"; Neel and Richard's LDI sessions; and A Moment of Nerdity. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Sep 16, 202344 min

S7 Ep 336LIGHT TALK Episode 336 - "Roaming Monkeys and Dead Ducks"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers welcome guest listener Magnus Boyle to the show. They discuss everything from Dropping Theatre and Getting into Broadcast Lighting, to Solar Panels Orbiting the Earth. Join Magnus, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Hurricane update; "Lucky Hank"; Life as a lighting designer in Norway; Advantages to having a musical background; Advice for touring your show in North America; Useful homework before your tour; Last second console nightmares; Getting into broadcast lighting design; Truss Monkeys; Missing our monkeys and ducks, Can you really survive as a lighting designer?; Outragious car insurance rates; Design fees in Norway; and Should you buy used lighting equipment "As-Is"? Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Sep 9, 202347 min

S7 Ep 335LIGHT TALK Episode 335 - "Monkeys Riding Alligators"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Fighting for your Students, to Hurricane Idalia heading for Light Talk Central. Join Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Lighting areas of control; Compromise or too many choices; Remembering "Dimmer per Circuit"; Fighting the Season Selection Committee for shows that serve lighting students; Knowing when to keep quiet; Successfully navigating Craft Services; "Future to the Back"; What the hell is going on in West Virginia?; Corporate efficiency companies destroying higher education; Unexpected consequences; and Color-matching your light sources at Tech. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Sep 2, 202351 min

S7 Ep 334LIGHT TALK Episode 334 - "Learning to Learn - Our Conversation with Lap Chi Chu"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) welcome guest designer Lap Chi Chu to the show. They discuss everything from Endless Previews to Bad Hair. Join Lap, Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: LDI Update; The Elvis Church; New Light Talk Live time at LDI; Moving from undergraduate to graduate training programs; Crosstraining; Lighting color training: LED or Tungsten... What's first?; Remembering John Gleason; The future of lighting and theatre education; ChatGPT's sense of humour; The state of the regional theatres and how it affects young designers; Stan Pumpin' Iron; The differences between working in regional theatre and Broadway; "Camelot" at Lincoln Center; Influential artists; and Finding new things in new places. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Aug 26, 202348 min

S7 Ep 333LIGHT TALK Episode 333 - "Dewey, Cheatem, and Howe"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers welcome guest listener Doug Feinberg to the show. They discuss everything from Lighting Measurements to Listening to LIGHT TALK Backwards. Join Doug, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Lower priced lighting options for theaters on tight budgets; MEGA-LITE; Playing with gobo morphing and automated shutters; Unexpected light cues; When will LED completely replace incandescents?; "Creative Lighting Metrics of Los Alamos"; It's All About the Moment; and Everything you ever wanted to know about lighting output standards. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Aug 19, 202337 min

S7 Ep 332LIGHT TALK Episode 332 - "Concept Rears its Ugly Head"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers welcome guest listener Jack Coody to the show. They discuss everything from Stan's New Medication to Royalty Lighting Designers. Join Jack, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Remembering our Senior years; Vacuuming with LIGHT TALK; Point of View and Approach; Buffoonary and Puffary; Breaking down comedies; Brazilian Nuts; Program Notes; Weighing Production and Classroom work; Unknown knowns; Suck No-More Pro Edition; The Lumen Brothers' plans for Jack's future; "We don't have no stinkin' dimmers!"; and How to meet directors. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Aug 12, 202340 min

S7 Ep 331LIGHT TALK Episode 331 - "Smoke Signals"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) welcome guest listener Jack Justus to the show. They discuss everything from Stan's Solar Poser to "Divine Lighting". Join Jack, Ellen, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: No more incandescent lamps in the US; LDI's Professional Workshops; What happenes when you Power-Cycle?; Stan's Full Brain-Wash; Drain the Gunk!; Saving your life when working outdoor gigs; The two levels of neglegence; The path of least resistance; Light Talk University; Water in Stan's walls; Artificial Intelligence in education; "Pushing you to keep going"; Ted Lasso quotes; Folding proteins; The best way to successfully integrate followspots into your lighting design; and NERD ALERT!!!! Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Aug 5, 202353 min

S7 Ep 330LIGHT TALK Episode 330 - "It's a Barbie Movie!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers welcome Guest Listener Jacqui Thomassen to the show. They discuss everything from Sneaking into Barbenheimer to Owning Your Scan. Join Jacqui, Steve, Zak, and David, as they pontificate about: Weekend movie madness; The end of Chautauqua Opera productions; Broadway's Back to the Future; How to find an agent; 10% of zero; "Heads in Beds"; How to buy a big, bright video projector; B&H, Best Buy and Fry's; The Amazon counter at Whole Foods; Dramatic Exits; Wrecking Ball Seminars; "There... I ruined it!"; Supporting SAG and the Screen Writers' Guild; How much lighting technology should you know?; and A Stratocaster analogy. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jul 29, 202359 min

S7 Ep 329LIGHT TALK Episode 329 - "Don't Burn Bridges - Our Discussion with Jim Tetlow"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) welcome Lighting Designer Jim Tetlow to the show. They discuss everything from Lighting Presidential Debates to The Muppets. Join Jim, Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Living in La Jolla; Working for the Democrats and Republicans; Getting into television lighting; Learning from the designers who invented television lighting; Moving to LA; "How many IntelliBeams would you like?"; Working with Vladimir in Las Vegas; Becoming the "Guru" of cruise ship entertainment systems; "Nautilus"; Feeling responsible for your employees; Protecting the integrity of your design on a cuise ship; Moments of Nailing It!; Lighting "Requiem"; Goldfish memories; Consulting business tips; How to be the Best Designer you can be; Will AI replace Lighting Designers?; and Advice for Young Designers entering the industry. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jul 22, 202348 min

S7 Ep 328LIGHT TALK Episode 328 - "It Takes More Than a Village - Our Discussion with Jared A. Sayeg"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) welcome Lighting Designer Jared Sayeg to the show. They discuss everything from Talking to the Console, to Talking Turtles, Live Camels, and Flying Armadillos. Join Jared, Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Backstage Babies; Training with mentor Elizabeth Stillwell; Recreating Phantom of the Opera in Jared's spare room; Working at the LA Opera; Being admitted into 829 as a teenager; "A Little Night Music" at The Pasedena Playhouse; Very long sunsets; Lighting on Cruise Ships; "Anything goes on the High Seas... Make it a three count!"; Incorporating Pre-Viz in the process; Vibration Challenges; Walking the Plank; The differences of working on The West End vs. Broadway; Working at Radio City Music Hall with Ken Billington; 100 Rockettes; Talking Turtles; A Sea of Legs; and How Artificial Intelligence may change our profession... "I don't want to talk to the console!" Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jul 15, 202354 min

S7 Ep 327LIGHT TALK Episode 327 - "Three Guys, Six Opinions"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers welcome Guest Listener Dalyn Kvapil to the show. They discuss everything from Programmers Crossing the Line, to the Crisis in Regional Theatres. Join Dalyn, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Programmers overstepping their place; Tips for working at summer festivals; The "Lightning Strike Deathzone"; "The Moti-Vay-Ta!"; The Crisis in Regional Theatres; Stan quoting Karl Marx; Bad Programming; Rediculous ticket pricing; Cheering for the Home Team; and Falling Ceilings. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jul 8, 202350 min

S7 Ep 326LIGHT TALK Episode 326 - "Have a Beer!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and SISTER!) discuss everything from The Praguie Quadrennial to Snoot Saves the Day! Join Ellen, David, and Steve as they pontificate about: The Prague Quadrennial; Stuck at the end of the runway; The beauty of Prague; Real beer; Drinks with Thaddeus Strassburger; Eco-Scenery; Surviving abusive summer gigs; "Resident Lighting Designer" gigs; Is it OK to leave graduate school if you are unhappy?; "Lighting Twister"; Are graduate design programs sustainable?; and Deciding which photos to take at Photo Call. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jul 1, 202342 min

S7 Ep 325LIGHT TALK Episode 325 - "Pixels are Free!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and SISTER!) discuss everything from Color Shifting Approaches to "Does Anyone Watch the Tony's Anymore?" Join Ellen, Stan, and Steve as they pontificate about: How to decide if your show should incorporate white light or heavy color; Tuning white light for individual actors; When to push new technology; Facade lighting strategies; Vertrical vs. horizontal illumination; "The Fixture Daisy-Chain-Gang"; Giving up your New Year's resolutions; Are the Tony Awards irrelevant?; and How to get better as a lighting designer. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jun 24, 202342 min

S7 Ep 324LIGHT TALK Episode 324 - "Aim Low... But Not THAT Low!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Audience Members Giving You Notes to Getting Blottoed in the Hot Tub. Join Steve and David as they pontificate about: "The Groucho Marx Quote Kerfuffle"; David and Lori's Western Caribbean Research Cruise; Unlimited Drinks Packages; How to make suggestions to your design colleagues on a show; Protecting yourself in a dead-end academic job; Catch-22 RTP Policies; "The Focus Squad Mobile Lighting Maintenence Team"; Is lack of maintenence ruining your show?; Satan Scrollers; Non-shaky lighting positions; and Creating a modern script analysis class. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jun 17, 202347 min

S7 Ep 323LIGHT TALK Episode 323 - "For the Record... Groucho Marx"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Blinking Lights to Kim Kardashian. Join Ellen, Steve, Brackly, and Stan as they pontificate about: David's Margaritta to Go machine; The pros and cons of joining a union; How to design a problem-free lighting system; Stan's Wild Lights; A few beers and some chicken wings; Who has "disposable income"?; "The Gaffa No-Go"; The writers strike and how it affects our industry; Crossing a picket-line; "Here Lies Love" and the American Federation of Musicians; and "I refuse to join any club that would have ME as a member." Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jun 10, 202343 min

S7 Ep 322LIGHT TALK Episode 322 - "THE BEST OF LIGHT TALK - Episode 6: The Dance of Excited Electrons - Interview with Josh White"

From the Vaults of LIGHT TALK, we bring you Episode 6 from way back on May 22, 2017. When we were deciding who to invite to be our first guest on our crazy show, Josh White immediately came to mind. I had met Josh the previous year as I was researching liquid light shows and synesthesia. I knew that Josh would fit in well with our special brand of insanity. As you can tell from this BEST OF LIGHT TALK episode, I was correct. Enjoy! In this episode of LIGHT TALK with The Lumen Brothers, Steve, Stan, and David welcome special guest Josh White from The Joshua Light Show. Josh discusses: The early days of liquid light shows at The Fillmore East; Working with The Who on Tommy; Installing aircraft landing lights into overhead projectors; Creating abstract lighting statements; Armadillo icons; Improvisational lighting and busking; Accidentally inventing the lava lamp; Staying out of the army; Disaster at Woodstock; Synesthesia; Max Headroom; Using spot welders in your light show; and Not losing track of your "analog side". Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very little makes sense.

Jun 3, 20231h 5m

S7 Ep 321LIGHT TALK Episode 321 - "No Crypto for DJ!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Original Muffins to "Rigging in the Rain". Join Zak, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Nooks and Crannies; Lumen summer plans; Initial impressions of Final Cut Pro for the iPad; Chinese balloons and Russian missiles; Whacky grids; What to do when the Artistic Director asks you to change the lighting after the show opens and you have left town; Signing union contracts when working abroad; "CHAT ALD"; Is YouTube getting in the way of becoming a better lighting designer; and How much to charge your friends. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

May 27, 202342 min

S7 Ep 320LIGHT TALK Episode 320 - "It's Really Weird What We Do… A Conversation with Mikael Kangas"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers welcome lighting designer and Lighting and Projections Design Coordinator for the Canadian Opera Company, Mikael Kangas, to the show! Join Mikael, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: The roles of the Lighting Coordinator at Class A opera companies; The process of remounting the lighting for large scale opera productions; Considering what equipment to use as technology changes over the years; Using the EOS spreadsheet view when considering equipment choices; Color considerations when updating to new fixtures; What skills you need to have to land a job as a Lighting and Projections Design Coordinator; A detailed explanation of using "Moving Light Assistant" to accurately remount moving light presets; The state of the theatrical lighting industry for young designers in Canada; Working with multiple designers with multiple personalities; Humerous moments of self-awareness at the production table; and Advice for young lighting designers. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

May 20, 202336 min

S7 Ep 319LIGHT TALK Episode 319 - "What's a Sitzprobe Without a Rotten Hot Dog..."

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Union Strikes to Romance Novels. Join Zak, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Toronto Tales; Trouble at Central City Opera; Negotiating with Backstage Franks; New iPad versions of Logic and Final Cut Pro; Getting started with Projection Mapping; Matching LED and incandescent fixtures in a candle-lit color space; Build and Button techniques; The latest harnesses from The Cheeky Rigger; Other people using photos of your designs without your permission; Ed Sheeran and those nasty four chords; How to create a quick and unified blackout with incandescent fixtures; and The 45-cent Douser! Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

May 13, 202348 min

S7 Ep 318LIGHT TALK Episode 318 - "The Bitter People"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from AI Writers to Surprise Tony Nominees. Join Brackley, Steve, and Zak, as they pontificate about: Chat GPT and the Writer's Strike; LDI vs. The F1; Keeping projectors quiet; Fond memories of Pani's; How to be kind when critiquing a distracting lighting design; Balancing university politics with your educational mission; Politics at private vs. state universities; Tony Award nominees; and Being stuck in the past. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

May 6, 202347 min

S7 Ep 317LIGHT TALK Episode 317 - "The Leaning Tower of Pizza"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Sister (and Brothers) discuss everything from Shakey Scaffolding to Wet Dragons. Join Ellen, Steve, and Stan, as they pontificate about: Dance Booms 101; Cosmic trusses; The best IP65 rated fixtures and how to protect them between shows; How to put together a design showcase at school; Cheeky Rigger Muscle Relaxers; How directors should prepare for a successful tech week; Academic tech schedules; Scaffolding building tips; and Using moving lights as followspots. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Apr 29, 202350 min

S7 Ep 316LIGHT TALK Episode 316 - "The Saddest of All Keys"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Iconic Broadway Shows to The Band Geeks. Join Zak, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: The closing of The Phantom of the Opera; Ripping off Puccini and Pink Floyd; NAMM Report; Do-it-yourself lighting rigs for David and Zak's bar bands; Discussing assistant fees with union designers; Living a normal, stable life as a theatre artist; Archiving your old shows for future revivals; "Moving Light Assistant"; "Pancake in a Can"; The closing... and re-opening of iconic Broadway shows; Royalties and Points; Design memories of Les Miserables; and Pointing your cowboy boots in the right direction. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Apr 22, 202349 min

S7 Ep 315LIGHT TALK Episode 315 - "Falling in Love with Light - A Conversation with Jennifer Tipton"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) welcome "Legend of Light" Jennifer Tipton to the show! Join Jennifer, Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Jennifer's most vital career moments; White light and LED; Falling in love with the photon; Discovering moonlight; The "mystique" of being Jennifer; Light and music; Starting a career in Dance; Working with great directors and choreographers; The challenges of Dance lighting; Directing The Tempest; Designing with new technology; Working with The Wooster Group; Discovering bounce-light; Teaching students not to become clones; and Advice for young lighting designers. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Apr 15, 202343 min

S7 Ep 314LIGHT TALK Episode 314 - "Dirty Little Secrets"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers welcome High School lighting student, Light Talk listener, and young designer, Clayton to the show! They discuss everything from The Value of Working with Programmers to Inspiration Showers in Space. Join Clayton, Stan, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: The value of doing an extra year of kindergarden; What we learn from programming, Full lighting automation at schools; Not Dead and Under 30; Spending a lifetime in Nebraska; Teaching for career sustainability; The Dirty Little Secrets of Lighting Education; Expanding your horizons; Pursuing your dreams; The "LD Paperwork Microchip"; Embetting Vectorworks files in your thigh; Appreciating the joys of compromise; Being a constructive member of the team; Acting teachers trying to direct; Creating the synergy in the team; Overcoming writers block; and "The Inspiration Shower: Spaceship Edition". Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense

Apr 8, 202354 min

S6 Ep 313LIGHT TALK Episode 313 - "Have I Got a Beach For You! - Our 6th Anniversary Show!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sisters!) present their 6th Anniversay Show!!!! Join the entire Lumen Family; Anne, Brackley, Ellen, David, Stan, Steve, and Zak, as they celebrate 6 years of Light Talk. They pontificate about the past, present, and future (maybe even intergalactic) possiblilities of the podcast. They also play a fun and humorous game of LIGHT TALK JEOPARDY! Enjoy this insane 45 minutes of laughs and good humor. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Apr 1, 202344 min

S6 Ep 312LIGHT TALK Episode 312 - "Show Me the Money!!!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) present a special, simulcast episode with our friend Ethan Steimel's podcast, Artistic Finance. Join Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: Financial mistakes that damage careers; What's worse... an IRS audit or a divorce?; Diversification; Skills that will get you hired; Working for "free"; Wise choices that enhance your financial health; Big financial fears; Investing in IRA's and KEOGH's; Trusting (or not) your financial advisors; The concept of purchasing power; Fair or unfair taxation; Investing to beat inflation; Clipping coupons; Making financial decisions; Growth and Dividend mutual funds; Why people hire you; and What to do with $10,000. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Mar 25, 20231h 6m

S6 Ep 311LIGHT TALK Episode 311 - "Don't Date Rockstars!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) discuss everything from The Academy Awards Show, to "The Four LD's of the Apocalypse". Join Ellen, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Our "Secret Anniversary Guest"; USITT Conference; Silicon Valley Bank; Lame gobos in moving lights; "No Nonsense"; Lights and ceiling fans; How to find work on Rock Tours; Matching gel color to LED fixtures; Kosher chicken wings; "Wrecking Ball Leadership Seminars"; Janis Joplin and Woodstock; How to become a great team leader; and Speed cue writing. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Mar 18, 202347 min

S6 Ep 310LIGHT TALK Episode 310 - "THE BEST OF LIGHT TALK - Episode 253 - Don't Stare at the Beauty Too Long"

In this episode of THE BEST OF LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Exciting New Seltzers to Burning your Retinas! Join Steve, David, and Stan, as they pontificate about: "Beautiful Belmont Shore"; 5th Anniversary plans; Super Bowl ticket prices; Keeping up with "The Equipment Wars"; What to look for in a BA program; For stage photography, what's the next step after a 50mm lens?; How theatre artists survive academia; and Is it too late to start looking for summer theatre work? Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Mar 11, 202346 min

S6 Ep 309LIGHT TALK Episode 309 - "This Face is Not for 4K... A Conversation with Bob Barnhart"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and Sister) welcome multi-Emmy Award lighting designer Bob Barnhart to the show! Join Bob, Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: A Baker's Dozen; Bob's start in broadcast lighting; Making the Oscars unique; Consulting on new stadiums; "22 (or 22.5) Degrees"; Lead time for the Oscars and Super Bowl; Making Mick Jagger look worse; PBS's "Great Performances"; The Studio School of Design; Lighting for 4K; Bob's personal TV; How cable providers can destroy your home video image; Consulting with lighting fixture manufacturers; Swiss army knives; The $1.99 leko; Advice for lighting students; and Finding Your Meadow. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Mar 4, 202352 min

S6 Ep 308LIGHT TALK Episode 308 - "In Memory of James Moody - Replay of Episode 216, "Art, Lighting, and Smoothies"

In memory of lighting legend Jim Moody, the Lumen Brothers and Sisters are rebroadcasting the interview that we had with Jim and his longtime friend Jeff Ravitz, that was originally broadcast on May 22, 2021. We pay tribute to this great man and artist. He will be missed." In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) interview Master Lighting Designers Jim Moody and Jeff Ravitz about their new book: Lighting for Televised Live Events, Making Your Live Production Look Great for the Eye and the Camera. Join Anne, Jim, Jeff, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Jim sipping smoothies and recording from the high seas; How Jim and Jeff got involved with video broadcast lighting; How theatrical lighting and video cameras co-exist; Consideration of lighting angles for the camera; Target foot-candle levels; Training your eye; Factors for deciding on lighting levels; Dealing with upstage LED video screens; Learning the technical data about cameras; Consideration of the wide range of home monitors; Great Bill Klages quotes; Co-authoring processes; Years of professional partnership leads to one voice; Writing for designers, not technicians; Video lighting with LEDs; Challenging productions; Advice for students and young professionals; and Finding the best Matzo Ball in LA. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Feb 25, 20231h 3m

S6 Ep 307LIGHT TALK Episode 307 - "Shenanigans Again!"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers welcome 2022 LDI Lumen Brothers Mystery Fez winner, Jayson Lawshee, as Honorary Lumen Brother of the Day and Guest Host of the show! The Brothers discuss everything from Touring while using House Equipment, to "The Stay Puft Marshmello Dancers". Join Jayson, Steve, David, and Zak, as they pontificate about: The amazing lives of Adrian Hall and Eugene Lee; Breaking up with directors is hard to do; Tours that have to use house equipment; "The Not So Clear-Com"; Our Superbowl Halftime Show Review; Bruce Rogers and Al Gurden; "Questionable Call"; and Our favorite styles of theatre. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Feb 18, 202351 min

S6 Ep 306LIGHT TALK Episode 306 - "Where There is Light, There Must be Shadow"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Harry Styles in Reverse, to Intravenous de Milo. Join Steve, David, and Stan, as they pontificate about: Grammy disasters; Non-bionic ears; What is better... Interviewing for grad school live in Chicago or on Zoom?; Balancing production and classwork; Following the Puck; How to keep fan noise at a minimum; "Monopoly: MFA Edition"; The value of studying historic original lighting designs; "Layers of Light"; and The Spirit is the Essence. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Feb 11, 202346 min

S6 Ep 305LIGHT TALK Episode 305 - "Dirty Martinis and Back Stage Franks"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers discuss everything from the URTA's in Chicago to Avoiding the Freak Show. Join Steve and David, as they pontificate about: Who made it back alive from Chicago; Ice driving in Dallas; Steve's URTA report; Questions to ask at your follow-up interview; How to learn about AI technology; Universities integrating Artificial Intelligence technology into the curriculum; "Pet Sweat Origami Toilet Potty Paper"; "Playing the Game"; and Frightening Show Nightmares! Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Feb 4, 202345 min

S6 Ep 304LIGHT TALK Episode 304 - "Sledding on Pizza Boxes - A Discussion with Phillip Powers"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and SISTER!) discuss Commercial and Industrial lighting design with entertainment designer, Phillip Powers. Join Phillip, Ellen, Zak, and David, as they pontificate about: Transitioning from entertainment lighting to coporate design; Crazy Texas Weather; Diversifying your design portfoliuo to attract corporate clients; How to choose and maintain a lighting equipment inventory; Deciding which technology to invest in; Corporate Sand Sculptures; How to set your fees and negotiate with corporate clients; and Zany stories from the corporate world. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense. Quick LinksGet Embed PlayerShare on SocialDownload Audio File

Jan 28, 202341 min

S6 Ep 303LIGHT TALK Episode 303 - "The Empowerment of the Auteur - A Discussion with Bob Bonniol"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and SISTER) discuss AI with renowned production designer, Bob Bonniol. Join Bob, Ellen, Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about the Artificial Intelligence programs that are being used in our industry, as well as their affect on design education. They also explore the process of using AI in live entertainment design, and its current capabilities and future possibilities. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense. Quick LinksGet Embed PlayerShare on SocialDownload Audio File

Jan 21, 202349 min

S6 Ep 302LIGHT TALK Episode 302 - "Open the Pod Bay Doors, Hal..."

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Who Owns Your Intellectural Property, to Stan's Questionable Microphone Technique. Join Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: URTA recruiting in the frozen tundra of Chicago; "2001: A Space Odyssey"; How important is it for Lighting Designers to learn Stage Management skills; When do you charge extra for design changes before the show opens; Should you get paid for making design decisions when you are an ALD or programmer?; The "Wham-it Portable Tech-Table Dental Hygene Machine"; Is Artificial Intelligence a design tool or an evil conspiracy to replace us all?; What's all this hubbub about ChatGBT?; and The Five-D's of design. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jan 14, 202351 min

S6 Ep 301LIGHT TALK Episode 301 - "What is Classy, Anyway?" - Interview with Jeff Croiter

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and Sister!) chat with Lighting Designer Jeff Croiter. Join Jeff, Ellen, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: A path to Broadway; "An Excellent Bad Guitarist"; Joining the Lumenoids; Working with Penn and Teller, and Jennifer Muller; Introducing a director to LED color mixing; Peter and the Starcatcher; Integrating busking into "Freestyle Love Supreme"; Surviving the Pandemic; Giving designers and technicians a voice through the "Four Wall Sunday Roundtable" webcast; Developing the "Light Humour" animated shorts; Wise words to young designers; and Maintaining good dental hygene. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Jan 7, 202347 min

S6 Ep 300LIGHT TALK Episode 300 - "Parked at Full... Our 300th Episode Anniversary and New Years Show"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, the entire LUMEN FAMILY celebrates their 300th Episode with this New Years Eve Show! Join Anne, Ellen, Steve, Stan, Zak, Brackley, and David, as they pontificate about: Why did they agree to be on this silly show; The funniest moments of LIGHT TALK; The most challenging questions; Letters from Lumen listeners; Great guest moments; Infamous Quotes; and Lumens' New Years lighting resolutions. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Dec 31, 202242 min

S6 Ep 299LIGHT TALK Episode 299 - "Branded"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Believing in Your Ideas, to Freezing in Snoot's Closet. Join Steve, Zak, and David, as they pontificate about: Next week's New Years and 300th Episode Show; The Bomb Cyclone; Arri buys Clay Paky; Holding your ground when it comes to design choices and changes; Believing in your ideas; Finishing together on time; Feeling comfortable communicatimng with your team; How much time should you spend in room rehearsals; Being a "visual learner"; Becoming a "part of the company"; How to find inexpensive designers; Cheap haircuts; The Cheeky Rigger of Sheffield's Christmas 2022 Fragrances; The mystery behind lighting companies' branding decisions; and Why would anyone living in Montana join a theatrical union. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Dec 17, 202242 min

S6 Ep 298LIGHT TALK Episode 298 - "In The Catbird Seat"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers discuss everything from Negotiating Your Design Fee to Pickled Herring. Join Steve, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: The approaching 300th Episode Celebration; Playing "Hardball" in fee negotiations; How much does a lighting designer need to know about rigging?; Should students be failed?; How to get a job in academia; and The Dog that Peed on the Carpet. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Dec 17, 202248 min

S6 Ep 297LIGHT TALK Episode 297 - "Can You Spare a Square? - Our LDI 2022 Review"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and SISTER!) discuss and review this year's LDI Trade Show. Join Ellen, Stan, and David, as they pontificate about: "The Queen of LDI"; The history of Theatre Crafts, Lighting Dimensions, and LDI; What made this year's conference different from all other conferences?; The lighting portfolio review; Foster the Future; The Trademark Police; New products from Elation, Clay Paky, Varilite; Martin, Muxwave, and many more; Digital Signage and Art of Programming workshops; Women in Lighting; Preparing for the next shutdown; "Metamersive"; and Plans for LDI 2023" Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Dec 10, 202250 min

S6 Ep 296LIGHT TALK Episode 296 - ""Man...Hattan!" - Interview with Ethan Steimel"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers chat with Lighting Designer and Artistic Finance Podcaset Host, Ethan Steimel. Join Ethan, Stan, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: LDI aftermath thoughts; Steve's 2023 LDI plans; Light Talk Kilts; The Artistic Finance podcast; Multiple streams of income; The importance of a savings plan; Is the live entertainment industry on the road to recovery?; Stan being "Inculated in an Incubator"; The number of theatre artists leaving the profession; The financial state of regional theatres; Feeling "Safe" from Covid; Running "Nekid in the Streets"; Are designers' fees going up?; The "Wag of the Finger"; When to tell students that being a theatrical lighting designer is usually financially unsustainable; and Where was Amy's van? Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Dec 3, 20221h 0m

S6 Ep 295LIGHT TALK Episode 295 - "LUMEN MAGIC - The Lumen Brothers Live at LDI 2022"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers (and SISTAH!) bring their Podcast to LDI 2022 for the fifth year. Join Anne, Stan, Brackley, and David, as they pontificate about: Turning down shows; New technology at LDI; How to be a guest on LIGHT TALK; How we got the lighting bug; How many assistants do you need to design an opera?; Lighting Industrials and other commercial events; and What the Hell have we NOT talked about? Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Nov 24, 202244 min

S6 Ep 294LIGHT TALK Episode 294 - "That's Lightning, Baby!"

In this Pre-LDI episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers chat about everything from Basketball Jones to Getting Paid. Join Zak, Stan, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Stan's basketball injury; Thunder Down Under; Zak's pre-LDI report; The Cannabis Convention; Day Rates; How to assure that you get paid on time; Planning for retirement; "The Total Bastard Projection Set"; How to hold onto the passion; Bluebeam; and Should you charge for a Kit Rental? Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Nov 18, 202255 min

S6 Ep 293LIGHT TALK Episode 293 - "PIOMA!... Interview with Susan Rose"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers and Sistah!) chat with Lighting Designer/Programmer, Susan Rose. Join Susan, Ellen, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: Getting started in showbiz as a 14 year-old country singer; Chicken Wire Bars; Susan's Full Sail Hall of Fame surprise; Touring with Ringo Starr and his All Star Band; "The Mesopotania of the Music Business"; Training programmers to run the Hog; Melissa Etheridge; Feeling the music to see the music; Writing the Hog Manual Reference Manual; Early days at Disney Orlando; Crazy stuff on the road; Making the best out of what you have to work with; Beatle Mania Returns!; "Wingin' It"; Smokey's Page; The Chicken Wing Queen; and the "If This Van is a Rockin', Don't Come a Knockin' Party" at LDI. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Nov 13, 20221h 8m

S6 Ep 292LIGHT TALK Episode 292 - "Panic in the Zoo"

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers chat about everything from Wireless Control, to Bobby Danger. Join Stan, Steve, and David, as they pontificate about: URTA Designer & Technician Showcase at LDI; Stan's sabbatical report; A new "Stump the Chumps" poser; Controlling the reflection of surface color; How do you know when you are over-designing; New Bobby Danger episode; Joining your local Illuminating Engineering Society; and Gummies on a Hot Plate. Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

Nov 7, 202245 min