About Brett
Brett is a seasoned live production expert with decades of experience in large-scale events. His journey began running around concert stages with his uncle, a country music promoter. Over the years, Brett has worn many hats, from stage performer to lighting tech for tours with Morpheus Lights Inc, and eventually transitioning into video production. He has worked closely with NewTek, the U.S. White House, and global productions, becoming one of the earliest adopters and evangelists of NDI technology.
First Encounter with BirdDog
Brett met the BirdDog team during their earliest days.
“Back when they were dreaming up the original BirdDogs,” he recalls.
He contributed early feedback on features as someone using the tools in the field every day. Since then, Brett has been a strong advocate for BirdDog across forums, user groups, and his global productions.
How He Uses BirdDog Play
The Challenge:
Before BirdDog Play, Brett’s team used fiber optics and expensive conversion equipment to distribute video across massive event sites, sometimes up to 2 miles in diameter. This setup was costly, complex, and prone to failure.
The Solution:
BirdDog Play became the go-to solution at events like Barrett-Jackson Auctions (broadcast to 15–20 networks). Brett deploys up to 50 units across each event, using existing network to distribute the webcast version of the show across the event sites with unique commercial breaks and sponsors. The results?
- Near100% uptime (compared to 50–75% with previous providers)
- Plug-and-play setup with unicast/multicast
- Minimal tech issues, massive cost savings
- Scalable for both live feeds and backstage monitoring
“Before, we were dragging fiber to every screen. Now we run an Ethernet cable, plug in a Play, and we’re good to go.”, said Brett.
The BirdDog X4 Ultra in Action
Project: U.S. Presidential Campaign
Brett used the X4 to support backstage feeds for Kamala Harris during the last campaign cycle. As Brett metioned,
“We needed a quick, wireless setup for a backstage monitor. We literally placed the X4 on a tripod, battery-powered, connected via Wi-Fi. Done!”
What made the X4 stand out?
- Fast deployment
- Wi-Fi + battery = instant flexibility
- E-Ink display showing the IP address saved time
Brett mentioned that,
“In live events, saving 10 minutes can be the difference between calm and chaos. That E-Ink panel? A lifesaver.”
Why He Trusts BirdDog
Brett has been a strong voice defending BirdDog in the industry.
“Whenever someone has an issue, I say: reach out to BirdDog. They always get back to you by morning, night, whatever. They’re extremely responsive.”
Brett’s advice to those considering BirdDog?.
“If you want real NDI and reliable performance, BirdDog’s the only option. Their gear isn’t just about specs, it’s designed by people who understand production. And when you need help a kind message to the folks at BirdDog will return you a team of experts who what to help you succeed”.
Learn more about Brett’s work: http://brett.beanan.com/
