Lessons from Backstage Banter Ep 24 with Laura Zingle
In live entertainment, it’s not always about who you know—sometimes, it’s about who knows you. That’s what came through loud and clear in our latest episode of Backstage Banter with guest Laura Zingle, a backstage legend, educator, and stage management powerhouse.
Laura joined us just as she’s stepping into teaching Stage Management at San Diego State while Jay takes a well-earned union break. But what stood out wasn’t just her resume or her role. It was this: when someone asks for a reference and they hear the name “Laura Zingle,” the conversation ends in a yes. That’s the kind of reputation that can’t be manufactured—it has to be earned.
So how do you build that kind of legacy in a behind-the-scenes industry? Let’s break it down.
Reputation Is Your Resume (Even When You’re Not in the Room)
When Nancy Spooner sings your praises before anyone can finish a reference check, you’re doing something right. Laura’s story reminds us that our daily decisions—how we communicate, how we show up, how we manage people—create an echo that reaches beyond the gig.
“When people call about references and they say, ‘Laura Zingle would be great,’ and you haven’t even finished the question yet—you’re in good shape.”
This isn’t about going viral. It’s about consistently making people feel safe, supported, and seen in the chaos of production. That’s what people remember. That’s what they talk about.
Relationships Aren’t Networking—They’re the Work
Throughout the episode, we reflect on the idea we’ve circled around for 20+ episodes: the work is people. The reason you get called back isn’t always because you’re the most experienced—it’s because you were the one people trusted in the moment.
Laura didn’t get where she is just by saying yes to jobs. She showed up, supported others, and did the invisible work that keeps shows moving. Those relationships? They’re not accessories. They’re infrastructure.
Legacy Isn’t Just What You Do—It’s What You Teach
Now that Laura’s in the classroom, she’s translating that legacy for the next generation. She’s teaching future stage managers not just how to call cues, but how to build trust, earn respect, and leave a wake of gratitude behind them.
And Jay? He’s using that union-earned PTO to do some reflecting—something we don’t always get to do in this field. Because when you pause and look around, you realize: the impact isn’t just in the productions. It’s in the people.
🎧 Listen to the Episode
If you want to hear Laura’s full story—and some backstage banter about why teaching is just as wild as tech week—check out the full episode