Episode 36: Emotional Safety
In this special episode of the The Event Safety Podcast, ESA President Jim Digby is joined by Meegan Holmes (Global Sales Manager, 8th Day Sound/Clair Global) and R. Christopher Maxwell (Vice President of Production Artists, Black Theatre Caucus) for a dialog on emotional safety in the workplace. They explore the direct connection between representation and safety, unrecognized behaviors that can negatively impact communication, what leaders can do to create a more open and inclusive environment for all, and more. This is an under discussed and often challenging topic, but one that is crucial to the safety and vitality of our industry.
Produced in collaboration with our friends at the Black Theatre Caucus and Show Makers.
Meegan graduated from California Institute of The Arts from their Technical Theater program in 1993; she entered the live production industry before graduation as a local stagehand with LA Stagecall in Los Angeles. In 1997, she began her 18-year audio career with Delicate Productions where she worked as a touring technician and engineer. Meegan wore many hats simultaneously during her time with Delicate Productions including Labor Coordinator, Project Manager and Account Manager. Throughout her 24 years in the industry, she has worked hard to elevate others through hiring and mentoring. Her position as a Global Sales Manager with Eighth Day Sound is no exception, hiring full-time staff and expanding the company’s west coast-based freelancer pool as well as building the company’s touring and west coast based clientele.
Christopher “CMax” Maxwell
R. Christopher Maxwell (Stage Manager) hails from the bustling southern metropolis of Little Rock, Arkansas. During his early years in the natural state, he earned a B.A. in Theater Arts-Dance and Sociology from The University of Arkansas. Chris enjoys all forms of storytelling, the art of theater making is both an honor and a pleasure. In his career, he hopes to explore new mediums and untold stories. As part of his journey, he spent several years working in the Chicago not-for-profit theater circuit, and special events management. He received a Master's of Fine Arts in Stage Management from Columbia University's School of the Arts. He is also a 2nd year Stage Manager at Actor's Equity Association. He is currently a professor of Stage Management at Pace University an SUNY Albany. Off-Broadway Credits: (ASM) Eco Village,Safeword - EBP Productions; American Moor - Red Bull Theater. Regional Credits: (ASM) Mojada: A Medea in Los Angeles; Dreaming Zinzelle - St Louis Rep.