Pitchin’ Tents

From Summer Job to Industry Leader with Matt Smith

In this episode of Pitchin’ Tents, Ray and Davis sit down with Matt Smith of Special Events Virginia and MATRA for a conversation about building a career in the tent industry from the ground up. Matt shares how a summer job at 19 turned into a lifelong career, the mentors who helped shape him, and how MATRA became a major part of his growth in the industry. The conversation covers hands-on education, mentorship, certification, PPE, code officials, and what it takes to help the next generation of tent professionals succeed. From field experience to industry leadership, this episode is a real-world look at how people, training, and a little stubborn tenacity can shape the future of tenting.

Safe Tenting: ARA’s Plan to Raise Tent Standards

Hosts Ray and Davis welcome industry veteran Bryan Bolt to Pitchin' Tents to discuss his new role at the ARA and the Safe Tenting initiative. They cover upcoming nationwide in-person trainings, certification programs, the ground-testing tool for stake holding power, and how ARA is engaging with codes and regulators to improve tent safety. The episode highlights efforts to professionalize tent installation, document site testing, and give rental companies practical resources.

Inside the Tent Industry with ARA President Brian Richardson

Davis & Ray sit down with industry legend Brian Richardson, President of L & A Rentals Inc. and ARA President, for a conversation filled with stories, humor, and hard-earned insight. From on-the-job mishaps to leadership and mentorship, Brian shares practical lessons on safety, employee culture, and building lasting relationships in the tent and event industry.

Keder Clamp: Reinventing Tent Installs (Live at ARA Show)

Live from the ARA Show in Orlando, hosts Ray and Davis sit down with Ben from NexTech to talk about his patent-pending Keder Clamp and how 3D printing is changing the way tent professionals approach installs. From replacing zip ties to improving efficiency on job sites, Ben shares the story behind the product and the real-world feedback that shaped its development. The conversation also dives into fast e-commerce fulfillment, customizable strength and color options, training the next generation of installers, and NexTech’s new partnership with Tentwares. It’s a look at how practical innovation and hands-on experience are raising the bar across the event tent industry.

From Installer to Industry Insight: The State of the Tent Business

Davis and Ray relaunch Pitchin’ Tents for Season 2 with a candid conversation about the tent industry. Davis shares his journey from installer to TopTec Technical Solutions Manager, along with updates on Tent School and a preview of new 2026 product lines. They also dive into key industry trends from labor challenges and mentorship to innovative accessories, shaping the future of events. Plus, a look ahead at upcoming guests and the ARA Show. Whether you're a dealer, event planner, or new to the tent industry, this episode delivers practical insights you can put to work immediately.