Rachel Pfenning Hales shares her journey from working with the Black Eyed Peas and Lynyrd Skynyrd to contributing to the live event culture as Experience Manager at Rock Lititz. We explore the hidden world of live event crew members and the roadmap to a fulfilling career on the road. Rachel discusses her book 'Tour Book', offering an in-depth view of a roadie's life which challenges common misconceptions about the touring industry. The conversation encompasses the importance of asking questions, the transition from theory to practical knowledge in the industry, and the evolving landscape of live events, including the impact of COVID-19. Rachel opens up about personal growth, the crucial balance between professional commitments and self-care, and the power of community within the industry. This episode shines a light on the unnoticed efforts of the live event crews and the intricate dynamics of working in the music and event industries. Chapters: [00:00] Introduction to Rachel Pfenning Hales and Rock Lititz [02:09] From Starting in Theatre to Touring with Top Music Acts [13:12] The Why Behind Tour Book [27:52] Lessons Learned and Shared from Life on the Road [36:02] The Impact of Mentorship and Education in Shaping Careers Key Topics Discussed: Career transitions within the live event industry Insights into the daily challenges and rewards of tour life The importance of mentorship and community in navigating a non-traditional career path The role of personal experiences in shaping professional insights and writings Future trends and shifts in the live event industry post-pandemic Connect with Rachel: @rapfenhales @rocklititz Tour Book available on Amazon and other major platforms Join our community: @j9richards @thetourlifepodcast @q101chicago See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.