The ARA Show 2025 brought together some of the rental industry’s top professionals for a day packed with valuable insights and discussions. Among the notable attendees was Darren Randle, CERP, COO of Houston Tents & Events, who shared his key takeaways from a leadership-focused education session at the event.
Leadership, Work-Life Balance, and Team Empowerment
During the Impactful Leadership track at the ARA Show, speaker Stephanie Staples delivered a powerful session on self-leadership and work-life balance. The session, titled “Chasing the Moving Finish Line: Using Self-Leadership to Bounce Forward in Work and Life,” explored strategies for maintaining high energy levels and sustaining passion for work while managing personal responsibilities.
Randle resonated with Staples’ message, especially when it came to empowering his team and improving work-life balance. “I have three small kids too, so it definitely hit home and gave us some things that we need to take back home to try and improve the work-life quality for me and my family,” he shared.
By adopting these strategies, Randle aims to foster a more balanced approach to leadership—one that ensures business efficiency while also supporting personal well-being. He emphasized that delegation and team empowerment are crucial in avoiding burnout and sustaining long-term success.
Insights from The ARA Show 2025
The ARA Show wasn’t just about leadership—it was also an opportunity to explore emerging industry trends, AI advancements, and operational excellence. Throughout the day, professionals engaged in learning sessions that tackled hiring strategies, customer experience, and ethical business practices.
Among the standout sessions was “The AI Gameplan: Practical Strategies and Game-Changing Tools for Rental Industry Leaders,” led by Steve Lerch, which provided attendees with a clear roadmap for integrating AI into their operations. Attendees also participated in networking breaks, including an afternoon ice cream social, where industry leaders exchanged ideas and built valuable connections.
The Future of Leadership in the Rental Industry
Randle’s experience at the ARA Show underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the event rental space. By focusing on self-leadership, team empowerment, and innovation, he reinforces Houston Tents & Events’ commitment to providing top-tier service while fostering a strong company culture.
As the industry evolves, leaders like Randle remain at the forefront, ensuring that businesses not only thrive operationally but also support their teams in meaningful ways.
More About the ARA Show
For more insights from The ARA Show 2025, visit the session recap: Leadership and AI Are Key Topics at Wednesday’s Education Sessions.
Johnny Aguirre wears two hats at Houston Tents & Events – Project Manager and Strategic Accounts Manager. His talent for juggling complex projects and building strong client relationships makes him an indispensable part of our team. Johnny’s dedication means your event is in the best hands.
