In this Automation Unplugged episode, Ron Callis interviewed Paul Starkey, CEO of Vital Management and Bravas Group, about the upcoming Queen of Hearts benefit concert at CEDIA 2017. The benefit concert promises to "combine big fun, big surprises and industry support for the major cause of female victims of trafficking through GenerateHope."

The benefit will feature the Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band from Chicago, Creedence Forever; a painting exhibition by Leon Speakers’ president Noah Kaplan; a video experience by GoVision; the honoring of influential women, and other surprises. Proceeds go to GenerateHope, a San Diego 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a safe place for female survivors of sex-trafficking.

The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 7, at Humphries Concerts By The Bay, San Diego. Committed sponsors include Origin Acoustics, SnapAV, Leon Speakers, Women in CT, SurgeX, One Firefly, Cat Toomey and CATalyzing Communications along with numerous industry donors. The event is organized by Vital Management.

To get your tickets to this event, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit https://www.queenofhearts.rocks/

In this Automation Unplugged episode, Ron Callis interviewed Paul Starkey, CEO of Vital Management and Bravas Group.

About Paul Starkey

Paul Starkey has been in the custom installation business for 24 years, and in that time, Paul has raised venture capital twice, acquired two companies, started two others and has in-depth knowledge of the CI business. These acquisitions and mergers exceeded $280M in value. He has business operations, sales and marketing experience.  His keen insights, innovation, and creativity have been recognized by many in our industry. 

Interview Recap

The live interview covers a series of topics surrounding the AV and automation industry, such as: 

• Starkey's background and expertise in the industry
• The challenges currently facing integrators today
• Bi4Ci: what is it and why do CI dealers need it?
• Characteristics of successful business owners in this channel
• The three ratios integrators should definitely be watching
• Which manufacturers are starting to stand out and having staying power in this space
• Cool new technologies that are just around the corner
• Whether life exists on other planets
• And more.