Pitchin’ Tents
Welcome to Pitchin’ Tents – your go-to podcast for everything you need to know about the safe installation of party and event tents! Whether you’re an event planner, rental company, or just someone passionate about creating safe outdoor experiences, this podcast has you covered. Join Bryan Bolt and Davis West as they chat with industry experts, safety inspectors, and event pros to uncover best practices, essential guidelines, and real-world tips to ensure every tent you set up is secure and compliant. From understanding weather challenges to anchoring techniques and compliance with safety codes, we break it all down in a fun and engaging way. Because when it comes to event safety, every stake counts! Tune in and let’s make every event safe, successful, and stress-free.
Episodes

5 days ago
5 days ago
Welcome to this special episode of "Pitchin' Tents", hosted by Bryan Bolt and Davis West, where we welcome our first guest, the legendary tent expert, Pete McVey. With over 40 years of experience in the tent rental industry, Pete shares invaluable insights, from the evolution of tent technologies to the art of pole tent installation.
Join us as we delve into the nitty-gritty of squaring stake lines, understanding tensioning techniques, and appreciating the beauty of engineered pole tents. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or new to the industry, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the history, technology, and practical tips that can make your tent installations both efficient and elegant.
Plus, learn why squaring the stake line is crucial, and enjoy some humorous anecdotes about installation mishaps. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation packed with expertise and witty tales from a true tent master!

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Unveiling the Secrets of Pole and Frame Tents
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
In this episode of "Pitchin' Tent's", hosts Bryan Bolt and Davis West dive deep into pole tents and frame tents - breaking down the fundamental differences and the pros and cons between the two tent types.
With an emphasis on starting from the basics, Bryan and Davis define each tent type and provide practical advice on optimal tent installation, discuss structural distinctions, practical applications, and how to choose the right tent type for different event sites.
Join Bryan and Davis as they share valuable insights, lessons learned from the field, and tips to avoid common pitfalls.

Monday Feb 24, 2025
Creating a Culture of Safety in the Tent Industry
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Welcome to the latest episode of the Pitchin' Tents podcast, where hosts Bryan Bolt and Davis West delve into the crucial theme of safety within the tent industry.
The core of the discussion centers around establishing a robust culture of safety, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures, thorough site surveys, and proper personal protective equipment (PPE). The hosts stress the significance of comprehensive safety training for everyone involved in the tent installation process.
With engaging anecdotes and practical advice, Bryan and Davis remind everyone that cultivating a mindset focused on safety not only protects individuals but also uplifts the entire industry. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and support the ongoing effort to prioritize safety in all tent-related endeavors.

Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Inaugural Episode: Kicking Off 'Pitching Tents' Podcast
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the 'Pitchin' Tents' podcast, brought to you by TopTec Event Tents. Join hosts Bryan Bolt and Davis West as they introduce exciting discussions centered on the tent industry from a manufacturer's perspective. This episode sets the stage for future topics focusing on education and safety, providing listeners with insights into TopTec's renowned Tent School, industry trends, and the importance of establishing a strong safety foundation within organizations. Stay tuned for expert guests and engaging conversations! Make plans to join us in SC in December for TopTec's annual Tent School