<![CDATA[The Fairgrounds Podcast]]>Conversations with Fair Industry professionals, innovators, and experts to explore the ideas, challenges, and solutions shaping the future of our Fairs and Agricultural Societies.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Mon, 26 Oct 2026 08:18:36 GMTFri, 11 Sep 2026 18:03:08 GMT60Jay Spicer<p>Conversations with Fair Industry professionals, innovators, and experts to explore the ideas, challenges, and solutions shaping the future of our Fairs and Agricultural Societies.</p>episodicJay Spicerjvspicer@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Josh Knotts - Entertainment, Helpful or "The Help"?]]>In this episode, we talk about how fair boards treat their hired entertainment. Are you utilizing them to the fullest experience for your guests? How about using them in your marketing? Things to think about.

]]>31193815-df49-481a-a331-c715eb8686c0Mon, 19 Oct 2026 14:12:10 GMT<p>In this episode, we talk about how fair boards treat their hired entertainment. Are you utilizing them to the fullest experience for your guests? How about using them in your marketing? Things to think about.</p>no00:55:08Josh Knotts - Entertainment, Helpful or "The Help"?full<![CDATA[Transitioning to Newer Board Members]]>Are you having trouble transitioning from older, long time board members to younger or newer members? In this episode, we discuss some ways to handle that transition.

]]>4057165d-6171-4bcb-a0d0-aba860fcfb42Tue, 29 Sep 2026 18:55:46 GMT<p>Are you having trouble transitioning from older, long time board members to younger or newer members? In this episode, we discuss some ways to handle that transition.</p>no00:51:34Transitioning to Newer Board Membersfull<![CDATA[The Good, Bad, & Ugly of Fair Board Politics]]>Are your board dynamics causing chaos at your fair? In this thoughtful conversation, Jay Spicer sits down with Courtney Hinds, General Manager of the Wyoming State Fair, to explore the complexities of board politics and their impact on fair management.

Courtney reflects on her extensive experience interfacing with hundreds of boards across the country. She notes that the effectiveness of a board can significantly influence the success of a fair. "A high functioning board can positively impact a fair, while dysfunction can lead to chaos and stagnation," she shares.

]]>84b8e5e2-0f5c-4a6c-be91-711cfc06c8e6Fri, 11 Sep 2026 18:49:46 GMT<p>Are your board dynamics causing chaos at your fair? In this thoughtful conversation, Jay Spicer sits down with Courtney Hinds, General Manager of the Wyoming State Fair, to explore the complexities of board politics and their impact on fair management.</p><p>Courtney reflects on her extensive experience interfacing with hundreds of boards across the country. She notes that the effectiveness of a board can significantly influence the success of a fair. "A high functioning board can positively impact a fair, while dysfunction can lead to chaos and stagnation," she shares.</p>no00:52:17The Good, Bad, & Ugly of Fair Board Politicsfull