PODCAST · business
Fair Game with Robert Smith
by Robert Smith
Fair Game is a dynamic podcast experience focusing on state and county fairs worldwide.
Episodes
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Voice of the Fair 361 - Troy Beise & Troy Lindenfelser, Wright County Fair, MN
Today on the Voice of the Fair Podcast, the two Troys. Troy Beise and Troy Lindenfelser from the Wright County Fair in Minnesota share their fair experience, a friendly competition with Michaela Liebl, PLUS, their fairground was a POW camp? All that and more!
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Voice of the Fair 360 - Shane & Danielle Hansen, Rock-N-Circus
Today we catch up with Shane & Danielle Hansen. Shane is 7 years sober on Friday, June 12the and we could not be more happy for him. He and Danielle talk about his sobriety, Danielle’s new Bonnie West show and we talk about the challenge of running multiple units within the industry. All that and...
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Voice of the Fair 359 - Josh & Lea Knotts, Extreme Illusions & Escapes
It’s been over 5 years since I first sat down with Josh & Lea Knotts during the pandemic. In this episode we talk about Lea becoming a single mom while Josh travels for work plus we talk about this year’s Florida Fairs convention and the challenges entertainment managers and fair buyers face in...
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Voice of the Fair 358 - David Grindle, IAFE
David Grindle, the new CEO of IAFE joins me today. We talk convention, his background, and goals for the future of IAFE. Plus - what's the hill he's willing to die on? All that and more.
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Fair Game 357 - Charlie Kirk, Remembering An American Icon
Charlie Kirk was an American icon who engaged with college students in civil discourse on college campuses across the United States. He was assassinated in front of his two children and the world on September 10th, 2025. To support Charlie’s message to the world, please visit Turning Point USA...
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Fair Game 356 - Marla Calico, IAFE
This week I’m joined by outgoing IAFE CEO, Marla Calico. After nearly 5 decades serving our fair industry in various capacities, Marla retires effective December 31, 2024. We talk about the upcoming IAFE Convention in Phoenix, her thought process when deciding to retire, what she’s looking…
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Fair Game 355 - Robert Nash, The Living Zultar
Robert Nash is an accomplished entertainer, prop designer and actor. He also the creator of The Living Zultar fortune machine. Yes, that make him a direct competitor to my company’s Conjurer Fortune Machine. We talk about the origin story of his fortune machine as well as our highs and lows of...
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Fair Game 354 - Cody Rosenbalm, East Texas State Fair
This week we check in with a young man who is making a name for himself in the fair industry. Cody Rosenbalm is the fair manager for the East Texas State Fair in Tyler, TX. We talk about the fairs move to their new grounds in Tyler, the impact of YP on our industry, plus Cody talks about some of...
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Fair Game 353 - Danny & Lindsay Grant, Cowboy & Cowgirl Circus
This week I’m at the Hillsborough County Fair in Florida. I got to hang out with Danny & Lindsay Grant for a bit before the fair opened. The two entertainers bring the Cowboy Circus and Cowgirl Circus to fairs across the midwest and mid-Atlantic regions of America. The show creates incredible...
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Fair Game 352 - 7 Tips & Tricks for Fair Buyers
The IAFE Trade Show can be overwhelming. There’s hundreds of booths, everyone is vying for your attention and it can feel like you’re being pulled in every direction. On this week’s show I’ve got 7 tips & tricks for fairs buyers to help streamline the IAFE Trade Show experience.
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Fair Game 351 - 7 Tips & Tricks for Associates at the IAFE Trade Show
In today’s episode we’re talking 7 tips and tricks for the IAFE Trade Show. This episode is geared toward the tips that associates might need to help make their IAFE Trade Show more successful. We’ll talk about getting involved, booth design and connecting with new people. PLUS! Check out Tip #6...
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Fair Game 350 - News Roundup, Hurricane Helene Decimates Ag Industry
In today’s episode we take a look at major headlines from around the fair and agricultural industries including: Texas Supreme Court says State Fair of Texas gun rule stands, New Mexico State Fair sets record attendance, IAFE updates PLUS, Hurricane Helene devastates the ag sector across multiple...
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Fair Game 349 - Jeff Mills, Creator of Buford Bear & Alford E. Gator
Buford Bear and His Tiny House along with Alford E. Gator and his Tiny Swamp House have become two in-demand characters in our fair industry. Driving around in an old truck, these two greet fair goers and make wonderful new friends at every fair they attend.
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Fair Game 347 - Rachel Lisk, Lewis County Fair
Rachel Lisk is the fair manager in the Lewis County Fair in Lowville, NY. She had quit the adventure this year at her fair and she shares it with us today. All that and more on Fair Game 347.
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Fair Game 346 - Theresa Agricola, South Florida Fair
On today’s episode I welcome Theresa Agricola, Sponsorship Director for the South Florida Fair. We discuss bringing value to corporate partners, plus, Theresa reminisces about her friend and former CEO, Vicki Chouris who retired this year. All that and more!
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Fair Game 345 - Kate Turner, IAFE
In today’s episode Kate Turner, Director of Meetings for the IAFE joins me to discuss all things IAFE 2024. We’re talking ed sessions, trade and oh yeah, did we mention installing a Ferris Wheel in downtown Phoenix just for our convention? All that and more!Episode Note: Out of respect for the…
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Fair Game 344 - Courtny Conkle, Wyoming State Fair
This week I welcome Courtny Conkle back to the show. Courtny first appeared on Fair Game #206 in November of 2020. We’ve come a long way since the depths of the Covid pandemic. We talk about how she navigated the Wyoming State Fair through tumultuous times, an amazing grant that she qualified her...
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Fair Game 343 - Jeremy D'Angelo, Maryland State Fair
On today’s episode I sit down with Jeremy D’Angelo from the Maryland State Fair. We discuss his rise in the industry along with the importance of YPI. Oh, and did I mention he’s technically “Employee #1” for Play with Giants? We discuss all of that and more.
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Fair Game 342 - Scott Kozelka, Steele County Fair
Today I’m joined by Scott Kozelka, fair manager for the Steele County Fair in Minnesota. Scott shares his longtime insights as a fair manager, plus he shares some great memories of industry mentor, Elmer Reseland. Join us for all that and more!
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Fair Game 341 - Jacki Stough, Central Florida Fair
In this episode, we are joined by Jacki Stough, the Livestock and Education Manager at the Central Florida Fair in Orlando, Florida. Jacki shares insights into her history in the fair industry and provides a glimpse into running the livestock program at the Central Florida Fair. Additionally, we...
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Fair Game 340 - Johnnie Bubar, County Music Artist
Country music artist Johnnie Bubar joins us on the show today. We talk about his history in the industry, how he balances his life and work, plus, which country music artist does he think was most influential on country music? All that and more on today’s show.
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Fair Game 339 - Tasha Hyder, Clay County Fair FL
Today I’ve got one of my absolute favorite people on the show this week. Tasha Hyder is the manager of the Clay County Fair. No ma’am. Not that Clay County Fair. That one is in Spencer, Iowa. Tasha is at the Clay County Fair in Green Cove Springs, Florida. Tasha is one of those young…
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Fair Game 338 - Jess Kellie Adams, Country Music Artist
Country music artist Jess Kellie Adams joins me this week. We discuss her new single, “I Was,” featuring Cam Payne as well as what inspires her to write music. Later in the episode Jess recounts the thrill of a lifetime - getting to open for the legendary Martina McBride. All that and more!...
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Fair Game 337 - Andrea Peachey, Buffalo County Fair (NE)
Andrea Peachey is the assistant manager of the Buffalo County Fair in Kearney, Nebraska. Andrea is an avid fitness fanatic with a taste for great fair food and a desire to provide leadership to the teams she works with.
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Fair Game 336 - Madison Brooks, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Madison Brooks is the Corporate Partnerships Manager for the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. We talk about what it takes to maintain strong partnerships at one of the largest shows in the nation and how she came to land this role. Plus, if she had to relive one day over and over, which day would…
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Fair Game 335 - AJ & Carolyn Ross, Ross Concessions
This week I’m joined by AJ & Carolyn Ross, independent concessionaires from Ross Concessions. We discuss the joys and challenges concessionaires face, PLUS, we talk about the upcoming arrival of Baby Ross!
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Fair Game 334 - Bryan Schulz, Kansas State Fair
Bryan Schulz from the Kansas State Fair joins me to discuss the state of the fair industry, how he landed in New Mexico during the pandemic and what brought him to Kansas. Plus! We talk about how entertainers and fairs can strengthen their partnerships with each other. If you’re an entertainer…
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Fair Game 333 - Sarah Jean, Wayne County Fair
Sarah Jean from the Wayne County Fair in New York joins us on today’s show. We have a great discussion about fairs, how she balances her career and her volunteer fair life and what to expect from the 2024 Wayne County Fair.
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Fair Game 332 - Jenni Axelson, Sherburne County Fair
This week the Fair Game Podcast welcomes Jenni Axelson to the show. Jenni is the president of the board for the Sherburne County Fair in Minnesota. We discuss her plans for the upcoming Sherburne County Fair plus we delve into what it is she loves about what she does. Oh! And the red hair?…
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Fair Game 331 - Benjamin Jackson, Hypnotist
On Fair Game 331 we welcome Hypnotist Benjamin Jackson. Jackson specializes in comedy hypnosis that is a smash hit at fairs across the country. We talk about his entry into the industry and history in the entertainment industry. Website: https://www.hypnotistbenjamin.com/
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Fair Game 330 - Jodi Buresh, Saffire
On today’s episode we welcome Jodi Buresh from Saffire. As an event industry leader, Saffire provides digital services to fairs and events including web design and online ticketing. We discuss the state of event technology and how fairs and events can stay on top of the rapidly changing tech...
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Fair Game 329 - Shari Black, Wisconsin State Fair
In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Shari Black, the CEO of the Wisconsin State Fair. Join us as we delve into Shari's extensive background in the industry and gain insight into her journey to becoming CEO of one of the most renowned fairs in the country. Plus! Discover what guests…
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Fair Game 328 - Jerry Ross, Harmony Artists
On this episode we are joined by Jerry Ross, CEO of Harmony Artists, an esteemed entertainment agency that has been instrumental in providing exceptional shows for fairs, festivals, corporate partners, and performing arts events for nearly 50 years. Jerry Ross takes us through the exciting…
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Fair Game 327 - Kurt Palmer, Delaware County Fair, Iowa
In this episode, we are thrilled to have Laura Jaye, the star of the one-woman Strong & Amazing Show. With incredible demonstrations of strength and power, Laura Jaye has captivated audiences and carved out a unique niche in the fair industry. We delve into Laura's foray into the fair industry,...
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Fair Game 326 - Tricia Rosendahl, Wright County Fair, Iowa.
In this episode, we are thrilled to have Laura Jaye, the star of the one-woman Strong & Amazing Show. With incredible demonstrations of strength and power, Laura Jaye has captivated audiences and carved out a unique niche in the fair industry. We delve into Laura's foray into the fair industry,...
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Fair Game 325 - Laura Jaye, Strong & Amazing Show
In this episode, we are thrilled to have Laura Jaye, the star of the one-woman Strong & Amazing Show. With incredible demonstrations of strength and power, Laura Jaye has captivated audiences and carved out a unique niche in the fair industry. We delve into Laura's foray into the fair industry,...
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Fair Game 324 - Bill Olson, Greater Jacksonville Ag Fair
In this episode of Fair Game, Robert sits down with Bill Olson, CEO of the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair. We discuss his approach to leadership and his vision for the 2024 fair. As the head of one of the Jacksonville’s largest events, Bill shares insights on the challenges and...
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Fair Game 323 - Marc Dobson, One Man Band
Serenade Spectacle - A Conversation with Marc Dobson Today I have the pleasure of sitting down with an incredibly talented performer, Marc Dobson, known as the One Man Band. This remarkable entertainer captivates audiences by simultaneously playing a staggering 9.5 instruments, creating a true...
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Fair Game 322 - Karli Schulz, Nebraska State Fair
Celebrating the Nebraska State Fair with Karli Schulz Join us as Karli Schulz, the entertainment and events director of the Nebraska State Fair, shares her journey in the fair industry, from pivotal moments to creating memorable experiences. Get an insider's look at how she curates entertainment...
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Fair Game 321 - Ella Underberg, New York FFA
Competitive Advantage: How FFA is Building America’s Future Leaders. In this episode of the Fair Game Podcast, we have the pleasure of welcoming a very special guest, Ella Underberg, who serves as the State President of the New York FFA. In this thought-provoking interview, Ella generously shares...
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Fair Game 320 - Robert Holmes, Spectrum Weather Insurance
On today's episode of Robert Smith Presents, we are excited to bring you an exclusive interview with Robert Holmes, the esteemed owner of Spectrum Weather Insurance. In this captivating discussion, Robert will delve into the crucial role his company plays in safeguarding events throughout the...
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Fair Game 319 - Michael Tipton, Central Florida Fair
On this episode, we sit down with Michael Tipton, the CEO of Central Florida Fair in Orlando, Florida. Michael shares insights from his first year at the Central Florida Fair, highlights from the Florida Federation of Fairs convention, and offers a preview of what guests can expect from the 2024...
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Fair Game 318 - Henry Rivera, Magician
Delighting Audiences: A Conversation with Magician Henry Rivera Join us for an episode with Florida-based magician, Henry Rivera. Discover his journey through magic, from early fascination to career-defining moments. Hear about his approach to captivating audiences and the psychology of magic....
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Fair Game 317 - Shane Hansen, Rock-n-Circus
The High-Flying Life of Shane Hansen In this gripping episode, we dive into the exhilarating world of Shane Hansen, the charismatic star of the renowned Rock-N-Circu show that has been captivating audiences all over America. Shane takes us behind the scenes of his adrenaline-pumping stunt show,...
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Fair Game 316 - Cheryl Flood, Florida State Fair
Cheryl Flood knows she’s one of the lucky ones. As executive director of the Florida State Fair, she is one of the few fair managers who actually had a fair back in 2020 just prior to the Covid pandemic being declared. While her 2020 fair was a success, she did not escape the pandemic unscathed.…
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Fair Game 315 - Gene Cassidy, The Big E!
Gene Cassidy is the President of the Eastern States Exposition, affectionately known as The Big E! He’s also the current chair of the IAFE Executive Committee. He joins us today from The Big E! to talk about how they’ve navigated the Covid pandemic and what he’s most looking forward to when the...
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Fair Game 314 - Samantha Fairlie, The Pretzel Lady
Samantha Fairlie is the owner at, “The Pretzel Lady,” a hand-rolled pretzel business based out of St. Augustine, Florida. Not only are her pretzels delicious, she’s the proud owner of one of the most amazing food trailers in the entire industry. When I first saw it my first thought was, “this is...
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Fair Game 313 - Carey Harveycutter, Salem Fair
Carey Harveycutter faced the challenges of 2020 with patience, making decisions focused on the health of his staff and community. It’s 2021 now and the folks at the Salem Fair are ready to open. With their dates fast approaching the pandemic is waning just in time for the 2021 Salem Fair....
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Fair Game 312 - Cale Moon, Country Music Artist
If you’ve ever met Cale Moon you know he’s not only an incredibly talented country artist but also one of the kindest men you’d ever meet. We sit down to talk about how he handled pandemic life and the joy of knowing our industry is coming back.
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Fair Game 311 - Adam the Great, Magician
When Adam the Great is performing his magic will amaze, amuse, daze & confuse. It’s a family friendly show that delights all ages at fairs across the country - except for in 2020. On today’s show Adam and I talk about his approach to performing as well as his 2020 story.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Fair Game is a dynamic podcast experience focusing on state and county fairs worldwide.
HOSTED BY
Robert Smith
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Fair Game with Robert Smith have?
Fair Game with Robert Smith currently has 183 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Fair Game with Robert Smith about?
Fair Game is a dynamic podcast experience focusing on state and county fairs worldwide.
How often does Fair Game with Robert Smith release new episodes?
Fair Game with Robert Smith publishes regularly with 183 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
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Who hosts Fair Game with Robert Smith?
Fair Game with Robert Smith is created and hosted by Robert Smith.
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