This episode — recorded live at Event Tech Live London — features Colja Dams, Co-CEO of VOK DAMS, in conversation with Miguel Neves, Editor-in-Chief of Skift Meetings.

As CEO of VOK DAMS, Dams brings a unique perspective on how technology is reshaping event experiences without compromising their fundamental purpose: bringing people together meaningfully.

The conversation explores the fascinating intersection of cutting-edge AI capabilities and traditional event management principles, touching on everything from attention spans in the TikTok era to the future of mindful events.

Dams's insights, drawn from his company's extensive experience managing thousands of events annually and their recent partnership with Cvent, reveal a nuanced understanding of how AI can enhance rather than replace human expertise in the events industry.

Key Discussion Points:

• Attention Spans and Event Design: The decreasing attention span of modern audiences is reshaping event formats, moving away from lengthy sessions toward impactful 20-minute presentations while still maintaining opportunities for deep-dive content through masterclasses and breakouts.
• Personalization and Human Curation: While AI can help with personalization, human curation remains crucial. Some events are now offering specialized guided experiences for VIP attendees, creating "events within events" that maximize value through human expertise.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: AI and automation are transforming event management by providing comprehensive data analysis capabilities, helping organizers make informed decisions from strategy to execution while learning from past events' successes and failures.
• The "Burger Model" of AI Implementation: Successful AI integration requires human input at both ends of the process - initial prompting and final editing - similar to how smartphone photography still benefits from human expertise despite advanced AI capabilities.
• The Future of Mindful Events: While digitization continues to advance, the future of events lies in creating meaningful personal connections. Technology should enhance rather than replace these human interactions, focusing on generating valuable in-person experiences. Dams emphasizes that while AI and automation are transforming event management, the human element remains crucial for creating meaningful experiences. The future lies in finding the right balance between technological efficiency and personal touch.

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Drawing from our comprehensive Skift Meetings Megatrends 2025 report, we explore how today's challenges are spawning tomorrow's innovations: multi-generational event design that spans Gen Z to Boomers, mental health-conscious programming that's reshaping attendee experiences, and sustainability measures that are no longer optional but business-critical. Join us as we connect the dots between 2024's lessons and the transformative solutions emerging for 2025.

Read the full Skift Meetings Megatrends feature now.

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• Date Selection: Avoid major holidays; the first two weeks of December or the last week of November are ideal.
• Venue and Theme: Choose the venue and a theme like winter wonderland or ugly sweater parties.
• Food and Beverage: Custom menus, grazing tables, and holiday-themed drinks are recommended. Consider dietary restrictions and creative dessert options.
• Entertainment: Options include karaoke, bands, Santa (even by hologram), LED performers, and interactive DIY bars.
• Photo Booths: Provide visually appealing and social media-friendly photo spots.
• Philanthropy: Incorporate corporate social responsibility by partnering with local organizations for charitable activities.

These tips ensure a festive, interactive, and memorable holiday gathering.

For planners, the goal is to expose attendees to a wide range of viewpoints, and for everyone to feel connected – regardless of the political environment. 

“We've made DEI this big scary thing,” said Dr. Brandi Baldwin, an organizational and leadership psychologist and CEO of Millennial Ventures. “You don’t do DEI. Just be someone who honors differences. Be someone who is willing to show up as your authentic self and allow others to show up as their authentic self, even if they vote for a different political party than you do. That's where I think the opportunity lies,” she said on the Skift Meetings podcast.

Some organizations are doing it better than others. “Some companies will say we're all about diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it's really a misrepresentation,” said Bea Boccalandro, who advises corporate boards and executives on social purpose issues. “And then there are other corporations that are less public about their DEI efforts but “are just full throttle ahead,” she said on the podcast.

The urgency of DEI programs ebb and flow. After the murder of George Floyd, there was a rallying cry about the importance of these initiatives. Recently, there have been some headwinds, they said.

Decades of research show diverse companies are more engaged leading to financial success. As a result, most are committed to a culture that supports DEI.

For many, meetings and events are a place to start. By including speakers and attendees from different backgrounds a variety of thought will be offered. 

 “We've made DEI this big scary thing,” said Baldwin. “You don’t do DEI. Just be someone who honors differences. Be someone who is willing to show up as your authentic self and allow others to show up as their authentic self, even if they vote for a different political party than you do. That's where I think the opportunity lies,” she said.

Boccalandro cites a Pew Research Center survey in which 56% of those surveyed said that focusing on increasing DEI at work is a good thing.

She admits that “DEI washing” does happen in corporate America. “Some companies will say we're all about diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it's really a misrepresentation,” said Boccalandro. And then there are other corporations that are less public about their DEI efforts but “are just full throttle ahead,” she said.

What’s in a Name?

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the world’s largest human resources organization, created an uproar when it announced it was dropping the word equity from its inclusion, equity, and diversity focus. Its new acronym is now I&D which stands for inclusion and diversity.

Boccalandro says it’s important not to get hung up on the terms but “the initiative and efforts behind them.”

Keep it Simple

Baldwin stresses that DEI doesn’t have to be overly complicated. “We've made DEI this big scary thing. You don’t do DEI. Just be someone who honors differences. Be someone who is willing to show up as your authentic self and allow others to show up as their authentic self, even if they vote for a different political party than you do. That's where I think the opportunity lies,” she said.

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"It's too early to tell," Cheng said. "We're really just in some way taking a break."

Cheng is an experienced events industry professional who has worked with many emerging technologies. He experiments with AI tools like ChatGPT and advocates for improving the relationship between event planners and tech providers.

Cheng's skepticism towards AI's current capabilities stems from his work with the "#EventprofsBreakShit" initiative, which he has been involved with for the past four years. The project aims to create a transparent testing environment for event technology, allowing planners to provide honest feedback to vendors.

First Impressions Can Be Deceiving

Cheng was initially impressed by the accuracy and speed of AI-generated content, which led many, including him, to quickly adopt and implement the technology.

However, the more Cheng has used AI, the more limitations he has encountered. This prompted Cheng and others in the industry to reevaluate their use of AI. Cheng sees this as a necessary transition to understand the technology's capabilities and limitations.

He has become more cautious in his approach over the past year.

Cheng noted that AI-generated content can lack substance and a unique voice, especially in the creative industry. He also pointed to emerging challenges about copyright and intellectual property.

Despite concerns, Cheng believes there are promising applications in the meetings industry. He sees the technology's current state as transitional, with users reevaluating its capabilities and limitations. Cheng believes this pause is a healthy step in its evolution.

AI Capabilities Managed by Expert Human Guides

Cheng envisions a future where AI experts work with organizations to help implement the technology effectively. These experts – on staff or external – should have a deeper understanding of the technology, its capabilities, and its limitations.

The AI expert would help the organization, including event planners, understand how to leverage the technology. This can take the shape of creating compelling content or graphics for specific platforms or use cases.

Cheng suggests that organizations would be better equipped to address concerns about privacy, copyright, and other emerging AI-related issues with an AI expert guiding the implementation.

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Jessen is an experienced hotelier and event designer. He attributes much of his career success to active involvement in industry associations like MPI. He stressed the importance of investing time in volunteer roles to build networks and gain recognition. This involvement enhances personal growth and opens doors for business opportunities.

Pro Bono Mission in Uganda

Recently, Jessen took his volunteering to a new level by participating in a pro bono mission in Uganda through the Senior Expert Service (SES). This organization matches experts with projects worldwide that can benefit from their skills. SES selected Jessen for a mission to the Satellite One Hotel in Nebbi, a remote town in the West Nile region near the Sudanese border.

Upon arrival, Jessen faced several challenges. The hotel’s operations were reminiscent of the late ’70s and early ‘80s, with most processes conducted manually due to unreliable electricity and limited IT infrastructure. For instance, essential tasks like stock management and guest check-ins were done on paper, and the hotel’s few computers were not networked.

Jessen’s approach was pragmatic. Understanding the limitations, he focused on foundational improvements that could be sustained after his departure. One of his primary objectives was to enhance hygiene standards. The simple introduction of a stainless steel table in the kitchen – which was built rather than bought – was the key to separating clean and dirty dishes and significantly improved operational hygiene.

Sharing Hospitality Expertise

Additionally, Jessen tackled inventory management, a crucial aspect of hotel operations. He implemented an Excel-based system to help the storekeeper track stock levels more accurately and introduced the concept of minimum and maximum stock levels to prevent shortages. These changes aimed to ensure that the hotel could maintain consistent service levels without the frequent interruptions previously caused by stock rupture.

Another significant aspect of Jessen’s mission was educating the hotel’s staff on cost analysis. He worked closely with the kitchen staff to calculate the food cost for each menu item, a previously non-existent practice. Jessen enabled the hotel to identify and promote high-margin dishes, thus improving profitability.

Jessen also addressed the communication gaps within the hotel’s management. He recommended changes to align the general manager's and key personnel's efforts. This included creating an organizational chart to clearly define roles and responsibilities and fostering better teamwork and accountability.

Overcoming Challenges

Nebbi's remote location added an extra layer of complexity. Jessen had to adapt to a significantly different pace and style of operation compared to the bustling environments found in Europe or the U.S. Despite the challenges, he found the experience rewarding. He emphasized the importance of not imposing solutions but rather adapting them to fit the local context and capabilities.

Reflecting on his mission, Jessen highlighted the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and leveraging one’s expertise to make a meaningful difference, even in unfamiliar and challenging environments. His experience in Uganda underscores the potential for experienced professionals to contribute significantly to developing and improving hospitality standards in less-developed regions.

Jessen remains listed with SES and is open to future opportunities to share his expertise and drive positive change globally.

How to Think About Meetings

Burdette's career has been varied. She has been a medical meeting planner, a corporate planner and a member of the Atlanta Braves' game-day staff. MPI was a logical next step. "One of the reasons I came to MPI is I wanted to give back to the industry. I wanted to teach that next generation, or the next couple of generations, or even my colleagues about how to think about meetings differently."

"I am, what my CEO calls me, the head chef of chefs. It keeps me on my toes," she said. With a constant eye on future trends, Burdette calls it a pendulum swing. "I've been doing this for so long that there's probably not a trend outside of AI that I haven't already used or experienced," she said.

Managing a Controlled Explosion

Burdette often refers to event logistics as managing controlled explosions. Every time MPI has a face-to-face gathering, Burdette and her team are responsible for registration, housing, logistics, meeting specs, F&B, the attendee journey, exhibitors, and more. "We handle all the logistics, be that a 20 person meeting or one for 20,000."

"I am, what my CEO calls me, the head chef of chefs. It keeps me on my toes," she said. With a constant eye on future trends, Burdette calls it a pendulum swing. "I've been doing this for so long that there's probably not a trend outside of AI that I haven't already used or experienced," she said.

Surprising Second-Tier Cities

"When we go to a mid-tier city, we're the big fish in a smaller pond. We've been doing it for many years and we'll continue to do it. We're going to St. Louis next year and San Antonio the year after that," she said. Burdette always looks to surprise attendees through the meeting's location or a new food and beverage opportunity. At least one surprise is always part of the plan.

Keeping a Cool Head

Burdette feels that having a sense of humor is a basic need for planners, with so many unpredictable things happening that you just can't make up. "If you don't have a sense of humor about meetings and events, you're not going to last very long because I promise you, we could make a reality show about this that would outsell any Real Housewives," said Burdette.

Many of the events Burdette plans include outdoor gatherings. As excessive heat continues to impact not just the U.S. but the world, plans must be put in place to address the health and safety of attendees. Water, cooling stations and misting fans are must-haves. "I go into every one of the locations we are meeting in and say, 'What's the worst case scenario here?'"

Burdette prioritizes the health and safety of attendees. "We consider the safety of attendees every step of the way: at the airport, ride from the airport to the hotel, walk from the hotel to the venues, bus situation, and convention center."

Burdette doesn't let on the chaos that may be happening behind the scenes. "As the person in charge, I must remain calm, cool, and collected, at least as far as you can see, because I can promise you I'm like a duck swimming to keep my head above water."

RacquetX emerged from a conversation with co-founder Marco Giberti, a previous podcast guest, and a group of investors passionate about racket sports. "We have this idea, this kind of an idea. Can you help us validate it? We already have the money raised. Do you want to launch it?" Duda recounted. The challenge was to create and validate a new event platform in under a year—a task she embraced wholeheartedly.

RacquetX served as a trade show and festival, bringing together various stakeholders in the racket sports industry. The event showcased different racket sports, facilitated professional networking, and even included match-making apps to foster connections. Duda focused on creating a comprehensive and immersive experience for all attendees, something she is deeply passionate about.

Genuine Connections Lead to Engagement

In discussing the concepts of connection, engagement, and community, Duda emphasized the importance of establishing genuine connections before engaging an audience. "I think you need to have connection before you can have engagement," she noted. Duda feels that real engagement happens only when strong connections are made, leading to strong communities.

As RacquetX plans its second year, Duda’s goal is to double its size in terms of sponsors and attendees. "We are working really closely to make create even more strategic relationships and partnerships now that we have a brand that’s recognizable, trusted," she stated. Her vision for RacquetX is clear, aiming to elevate the event by leveraging the success of its inaugural year.

Beyond RacquetX, Duda is also committed to promoting diversity in events. She previously created "Change the Stage," an initiative aimed at diversifying speakers and panelists across events. "If we don’t have a diverse set of voices, backgrounds, thought and opportunity to people, we’re doing the industries that we all serve a huge disservice," she explained. Duda remains an active advocate for broader inclusion and representation in the industry.

Legacy and Reputation

Visit Detroit, established in 1896, was the first-ever convention and visitors bureau. Detroit features many historical firsts, including the first stoplight and the first paved road. The city has continuously positioned itself at the forefront of innovation. Cadotto emphasized that this legacy provides Visit Detroit with invaluable experience and a trailblazing spirit that sets it apart.

Detroit recently hosted the NFL Draft, with 750,000 visitors joining the event over three days. This event showcased the city's logistical capabilities, vibrant community spirit and enthusiasm for high-profile events. Annual events like the Detroit Grand Prix, Movement Festival, and Jazz Festival cement its reputation as an events hub.

Ongoing Transformation

Over the past decade, Detroit has undergone a deep transformation. The city has made substantial investments in infrastructure, including enhancements to the convention centers and improvements to the local transportation system. Both public and private investments are supporting the revitalization of the city's economic and cultural landscape.

Detroit's skyline and infrastructure are witnessing significant growth, with several new developments, particularly in the hospitality sector. The recent openings of the Godfrey Hotel and the Cambria Hotel are worth noting. Also noteworthy is the highly anticipated new addition at the Hudson site — set to become the city's second tallest building. The reopening of the Michigan Central Station, now a hub for Ford’s autonomous vehicle research, marks another milestone in Detroit's journey towards becoming a futuristic city.

Local Community Benefits from Events

The influx of events and visitors brings substantial economic benefits to the local community. Cadotto highlighted how local media partnerships and community involvement are pivotal in maximizing the impacts of hosting events in Detroit. These initiatives drive economic activity and foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents, who are eager to showcase their city's resurgence and vibrancy.

As Detroit continues to redefine itself through strategic developments and a robust events calendar, it is set on a promising path. For event planners and business leaders looking for a location that offers historical richness and modern amenities, the city presents an irresistible proposition with its unique blend of grit and innovation. Visit Detroit is ready to welcome the world so that everyone can experience the city's unique charm and capabilities.

Major Industry Shifts

The pivot to virtual event platforms during the pandemic marked a turning point for the industry. Companies like Hopin experienced meteoric rises but faced challenges that led to a decline and eventual sale of assets. Meanwhile, stalwarts like Cvent have shown resilience, maintaining their footholds amid fluctuating market dynamics.

Recent movements, such as Webex's decision to stop marketing products to planners, highlight the sector's ongoing realignments. These changes underscore the industry's volatility and the necessity for adaptability among leading players.

Platform Evolution

This year’s Event Tech Almanac focuses on a curated list of 85 key platforms across twelve different types. The concentrated analysis provides insights into essential features like integration capabilities and complex pricing models. The report also emphasizes the critical need for robust data security and transparent pricing structures. These elements reflect the sector's response to demands for greater clarity and accountability in service offerings.

Data Security and Ownership Concerns

Data security is more important than ever in event technology. The almanac’s findings strongly emphasize robust data protection measures, a response to the growing concerns about data privacy across digital platforms.

Data ownership models among different providers are crucial considerations for planners concerned with data sovereignty and security. Shared versus exclusive data rights have clear implications with potential risks and benefits.

Future Trends and AI Integration

Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence stands out as a promising development within event technology. AI is set to play a significant role in refining user engagement and simplifying complex operational processes through automation and predictive analytics. AI will undoubtedly be leveraged to enhance event planning and execution, potentially transforming the landscape of event tech by making platforms more intuitive and responsive.

Conclusion

The Skift Meetings Event Tech Almanac 2024 is an essential resource for understanding the complexities and dynamic nature of the event technology sector. Available for free download, it offers a wealth of information and strategic guidance crucial for navigating the evolving market.

Pandemic Pivot

During the Covid shutdown, the ASN didn't cancel its events, just the in-person component. “Doctors still need their education and research was still happening. We had our first virtual event in November of 2020, which was difficult in another way. We were trying to learn how to suddenly become a technology expert and a user experience designer and all these other things that I had never had to do before. We really lucked out. I mean, our event went off really well,” said Coombs. “It was just a whole other different kind of difficult, it was a rough couple of years for everybody in our industry.”

Impact of Visa Issues

Historically, 40% of Kidney Week attendees are international. At present, that number is in the high 30%. Coombs says this is a result of visa issues. “The wait times right now are prohibitive. People can't get here,” she says.

No Replacement for In-Person Events

Doctors could attend virtual events during the pandemic and get their certifications. “But we found attendance at the virtual sessions was really low, whereas in person, we have rooms overflowing,” she says.

AI is the Future

“If you look at where we were as a society 60 years ago versus today and what that will look like over the next 20 or 30 years, the growth that'll happen, I think it's fun to watch, and I am excited to be a part of it,” she says. “I've enjoyed specifically the impact that AI has had on our industry, and me as well.”

She uses it to help her with creative blocks. “AI is not going to replace us, but it is a really good space for inspiration, and that's how I typically use it,” she said.

Sustainability

Coombs witnessed the focus on sustainability slowing during the pandemic, but she is heartened by the recent shift back. “It's super important to me, in both my personal and professional life, that I'm being cognizant of the health of our planet,” she said.

The Taylor Swift Effect

Coombs has been a Swiftie since she was 15 years old. “I admire her tenacity so much. Her refusal to accept being shut down or being told this is the way that things are going to be. She's such a strong, willful individual, and she just doesn't allow herself to be muted. I've taken that a lot into my life in moments where I may have stayed quiet or allowed someone else to make a decision for me,” she explained. Swift’s ability to make her fans special is something Coombs emulates in the events she plans and in her relationships.

Importance of Mentors

While a student at George Mason, Vicki Johnson of Vicki Johnson & Associates, which has since been acquired by Cypress Planning Group, was a guest speaker. At the end of her talk, Johnson shared her business card to continue the conversation. Coombs took advantage of the offer, and Johnson became her mentor, helping her land her first job in the industry.

Prompted by Ali’s LinkedIn post critiquing the lack of thoughtful programming, attendee experience, and speaker support at conferences, the panel explores the importance of content in driving successful events. They emphasize that while logistics and technology have improved, the core issue remains the quality of on-stage programming.

Ali and the team highlight the need for event organizers to prioritize speaker experience and content curation, noting that effective conferences should focus on delivering valuable insights and fostering networking opportunities. They also discuss the role of experiential elements and the necessity of creating an engaging atmosphere to make conferences more appealing and beneficial for attendees. The trio wraps up the conversation with reflections on the evolving events landscape and the continuous need for innovation and thoughtful execution in conference planning.

Working hand-in-hand with the Wall Street Journal’s newsroom helps Bassett and her team identify what, and who, are making the biggest waves regarding how we live, work, and play. 

We discussed the upcoming the sixth iteration of the Future of Everything Festival, an event where industries, innovators, and ideas intersect. It's three days of concurrent sessions and experiences happening on multiple stages, with this year's focus on key issues around mobility, artificial intelligence, equality, and sustainability.

Right Place at the Right Time

When she set out on her career path, Bassett wasn’t familiar with the world of business events. Her first stop was a marketing role at one of the UK’s leading radio stations where she learned the value of events and their power in connecting audiences. 

Then it was off to Sydney where she took a short hiatus from the media industry, working at more consumer-facing brands and not-for-profits.

An opportunity to head up the events team at Dow Jones and The Wall Street Journal had her packing her bags and moving to New York City, where she resides today. 

Sustainability

With a focus on making less of an impact on the environment, creating set pieces for the festival made from sustainable materials that are then donated is important. For example, last year’s stage backdrop is now a sunshade for a community garden in Brooklyn. In addition, the stage iself is part of the garden as well. 

Inspiration

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is an event that inspires Bassett. “There are so many brands there activating and telling their story experientially in different ways. And I think it's so interesting to see what other businesses think is cutting edge and how they tell their story,” she says. 

Many event planners attend the Future of Everything Festival for inspiration. From its design to its thought leaders, many call it a journey of transformation. 

A full-service meetings and events company, Elevated helps with sourcing and planning gatherings for as few as 25 to around 180,000 who gather in Las Vegas for CES, the world’s largest tech event.

Las Vegas as an Events Destination

Based in Las Vegas, Glanzer has watched the city grow into a sports and entertainment capital, including being the main stage for Super Bowl LVIII, the city's first time of hosting. This came months after the city hosted it's F1 event, with Glanzer and his team producing an experience for 650 VIPs during F1 last year in Las Vegas. 

Wellness a Must-Have

Self-care is not something Glanzer takes for granted. Wellness must be a priority, not a side conversation, he says. His company has created the Elevated Wellness platform which is a 360-degree immersion of the senses designed to provide a healthy meeting environment. 

Glanzer Leads by Example

When Glanzer brings on a new team member, he stresses the three Vs — your voice, vision, and value. “There's no greater asset than your team and you really have to put in the effort and it takes time and you have to prioritize your time around them,” he says. 

Being Accountable  

Glanzer has both a personal and professional advisory board from all walks of life. He reaches out to his professional advisory board all the time on any type of decision regarding Elevated. Another advisory board helps him in his personal life.

Glanzer has a long tenure of involvement in the meetings and events community where he has been a CMP since 2000. He currently sits on the EIC CMP Governance Committee as Past Chair, is part of the SITE Mountain West Chapter Events Committee, and is active in the UNLV Hotel School Mentor program.

Grant began her career in higher education as a public relations professional, where she helped recruit students and position educational institutions. She then moved on to work under two mayors for the city of Philadelphia, where she was responsible for special events, festivals, and parades. She also worked for the Philadelphia Eagles, running community initiatives and events for a few years. Eventually, she joined the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, specifically for their Business Development Division for PHL Life Sciences. Her role there is to market the city as a destination for life sciences meetings.

Life Sciences' Unique Challenges

While life sciences is a popular sector for destination marketing organizations to focus on, Philadelphia has taken it up a notch by creating a separate division complete with an advisory board. PHL Life Sciences not only promotes the city as a meeting destination but also highlights the advances of the local life sciences community.

The scope of life sciences is broad, as is the range of associations that run meetings in the city. From citywide conferences led by professional teams of planners to smaller meetings run by volunteers or assistants, PHL Life Sciences is there to help.

Unique Destination Opportunities

Grant enjoys bridging life sciences and hospitality and seeks more opportunities to showcase the city's assets to attendees and leadership. Where possible, she pushes for dedicated sessions to explore the destination's offerings.

One of many venues she invites attendees to explore is the Barnes, a museum and education space that houses the impressive collection of impressionist art collected by Dr. Albert C. Barnes. Dr. Barnes co-invented the antiseptic Argyrol and later became an art collector and sponsored artist William Glackens to purchase art in Europe.

Looking to the Future

Grant is confident that Philadelphia will remain a premier destination for life science meetings and events. She will continue actively looking for ways to streamline the RFP and destination selection processes. PHL Life Sciences is focused on connecting local resources with scientific minds and removing logistical challenges so that meetings and events in Philadephia can be memorable experiences.

Gregg H. Talley is the chief executive officer of Talley Management Group, an association and event management firm that works with U.S. national global associations. Talley also has an affiliated association and event management firm in Africa. With a degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service in International Relations, he utilizes those skills to manage and consult with national and international organizations and boards.

Talley has personally managed hundreds of events globally for associations, societies, corporations, and fraternal organizations. One of his largest convention events is the 50,000+ attendee International Convention of Alcoholics Anonymous.

All in the Family

Talley’s father, who had been a 25-year employee of Mobil Oil, was contacted by a high school classmate who was publishing major medical journals. He was also tasked with managing their associations. This led to him starting one of the earliest association management companies, and Talley remembers dinner conversations focused on its inner workings.

While attending college in Washington, D.C., Talley helped out whenever the company that had become the largest medical association management company in the country was running an event in town.

The Value and Impact of Business Events

Meetings and conventions have a huge global impact, both economically and socially. Talley describes the industry’s evolution from contracts jotted down on the back of napkins to today when a 25-page contract for a small meeting is not unusual. Global business is one of Talley’s focuses.

Talley highlights the social impact of associations and events and advocates for transformational change, economic development, and social progress, particularly in underserved communities and regions.

One Voice

Talley expresses his frustration that the industry hasn’t come together to speak with one voice globally.

AI

The prevalence of AI is forcing companies to define why they exist, he says.

People are Attending Less Events

Attendees are more discerning about the events they attend. What surprises him is that there is no more focus on event redesign with this fact in mind.

Data Mining

Talley believes the industry is not mining enough data to understand the audience and their wants.

Global Strategy

Talley sees one of the defining issues for the industry as being how the Global North and South are integrated. The need for a global pricing strategy to address disparities and promote inclusivity across different regions is discussed, reflecting the importance of equity in event planning. Leadership qualities, including curiosity, accountability, and building human connections and communities, are important to Talley, as is fostering a culture of learning and innovation.

Rivers discusses his journey as an event professional, starting as a brand ambassador and tour manager before transitioning into business development. He emphasizes the importance of experiential marketing and the value it brings to brands and agencies. Rivers also talks about event planning, production, and execution and the importance of engaging all five senses in experiential activations.

His travels also influence the experiences he creates as he has explored 29 countries and 36 states. Rivers believes that events will become more focused on individual experiences and that brands will continue to hold their own events to create a stronger connection with their audience. He also discusses the impact of AI on the industry, the challenges of sustainability, and the importance of gratitude, patience, and adaptability in leadership.

Chance Led to Events Industry

Serendipity is how Rivers is connected to the events industry. He landed a job as a brand ambassador for Budweiser, working with the Clydesdale horses. He also was a tour manager for Cupcake Vineyards Wine and manned a mobile bar with its wine on tap that would be set up at food and music festivals. In 2019, he transitioned into the business development side of events.

The Importance of Why

He shares his experiences with others, highlighting activities that impress him and explaining why.

At this year’s SXSW, he was taken by Tide Detergent’s activation, which featured a bar themed around Tide’s newest product, a fiber tile called Tide Evo. The experience invited guests to touch and feel the product simply but creatively and effectively.

Risk Can be a Good Thing

As the industry evolves, Rivers predicts events will continue to be geared toward individual experiences. In addition, brands will increasingly create their own events. An example is Tesla, which has owner events. If he could change one thing in the industry, it would be risk-taking.

According to Rivers, events should stir four emotions: love, fear, hope, and nostalgia. Gratitude is another emotion that has helped Rivers.

Behind the Scenes of the Super Bowl

Hosting the Super Bowl required extensive preparation behind the scenes, making it the standout experience for the Visit Phoenix team. Edwards recounted the emotional impact and pride of executing such a prestigious global event, emphasizing the meticulous planning involved.

Shifting Planner Conversations to Intellectual Capital

The dialogues between Visit Phoenix and event planners have evolved significantly. There is now a greater emphasis on intellectual capital and immersive experiences over mere logistics. Jane Vukovich, director of destination services at Visit Phoenix, agreed that integrating the destination's culture and intellectual strongholds into events has become a priority.

Collaboration Is Key

Reflecting on the pandemic's impact, Edwards expressed the necessity for enhanced collaboration within the meetings industry, calling for transparent conversations and joint efforts to elevate the industry's profile. The goal is to foster partnerships enabling the city to leverage its intellectual and cultural assets during events fully.

Through innovative storytelling, attention to detail in massive undertakings like the Super Bowl, and a shift towards integrating intellectual capital into events, Visit Phoenix sets the bar for destinations eager to make a lasting impact on visitors and residents alike.

From Tech to Events

Adams started his career in events with a remarkable transition from a 12-year tenure at Microsoft. Adams enlightened listeners with his decision to shift gears, a move that left his colleagues perplexed. Adams' rationale for such a change was steeped in potential rather than just parties.

Creating Joy

Bishop-McCann's mission statement — 'We create joy' — might seem simplistic in wording, yet it embodies the company's profound impact on its clients. Adams stressed the significance of this mission and emphasized the pivotal role of joy.

Savouring the Experience

Adams also revealed a personal practice he maintains during events: taking a solitary moment to create a "mental picture" capturing the essence of the gathering, a practice that encapsulates the fleeting beauty of human interaction and celebration.

Events: A Trilogy of People, Moments, and Memories

Adams eloquently distilled the essence of events into three elements: people, moments, and memories. This philosophy underscores the sensory richness of events, an experience Bishop-McCann strives to perfect. By accentuating the individual attendee experience, Adams envisions a future where events are tailored to create lasting, positive impressions for each participant.

Generational Influence: A Forward-Thrust for Industry Change

According to Adams, younger generations have become catalysts for transformative change across the meetings industry. Their demand for balance, transparency, and defined career development have become benchmarks that benefit all workers. Bishop-McCann has embraced these changes, instituting policies like unlimited vacation, which Adams acknowledges were "influential" and accepted as a boon by all age groups within the corporation.

The Benefits of Competitor Collaboration

Adams wished for the meetings industry to emulate the collaborative spirit demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Encouraging an open exchange of ideas among competitors could, in Adams' view, drive collective improvement and innovation within the industry, a sentiment that resonates with Bishop-McCann's inclusive and progressive ethos.

It's not all spreadsheets and venue bookings; Gaudini argues that self-preservation isn't just a buzzword — it's a business strategy. She makes the case that in the fast-paced world of events, personal well-being is not just beneficial but crucial for long-term success.

A Deliberate Path to Success

Gaudini did not stumble upon her career by chance. With a career spanning over two decades and involving powerhouses like Google and SoftBank Vision Fund, Gaudini emphasizes the importance of an intentional approach to professional growth within the industry. By setting clear objectives and persistently learning new trends, such as integrating AI into events, she illustrates the blueprint for intentional career progression in event planning.

Educational Offerings

In 2019, Gaudini published The Art of Event Planning, hoping to craft a resource that would be both instructive and engaging. Not resting on her laurels, she expanded her teachings into a course in 2021 — an "evolution" of the book adapted to new challenges post-COVID. This course*, designed with real-world applications, bridges the gap for those aiming to advance their event planning expertise.

*(Use code GiannaVIP at checkout for a special discount)

Seeking Complementary Skills

Gaudini's advice stretches beyond the boundaries of conventional event planning. She has a Court Master Sommelier certification and an interior design certification. These alternative skills amplified her event planning capabilities and enriched her ability to connect with various aspects of her work. Emphasizing that such certifications can complement careers in event planning, she advocates for dynamic, interdisciplinary approaches to professional development.

Staying Cool Under Fire

Stress is a familiar companion in the event planning industry. Yet, Gaudini masters calm under pressure, turning potential panic into a razor-sharp focus on solutions. She recounts pivotal moments of crisis management with high-profile figures and the eleventh-hour changes she successfully navigated. She believes in the power of a positive attitude and a strategic mindset to pull through challenging situations.

Conversing with Corporate Giants

Gaudini shines a light on the art of corporate communication, especially when dealing with C-suite executives. Learning to speak at the "right altitude" — focusing on the overarching business impact rather than the minutiae — has been key to her success in convincing leadership of an event's value.

The Essentiality of Wellness in Event Planning

Asserting self-care as a strategic move, Gaudini emphasizes the significance of wellness in the industry — for both planners and attendees. Adequate sleep and self-care, in her view, are not luxuries but necessities that enhance performance and result in better-crafted events. For her wellness is essential for personal health and professional excellence.

Fabrizio started in the industry working for Smithbucklin, where she learned the inner workings of associations. She then joined the Consumer Electronics Association, the former name of CTA. That was over a decade ago, and Fitbit was all the rage. She went on to revise membership and dues and was tasked with running the CES sales team. All the organization's revenue was reported to Fabrizio.

While many perfected sourdough bread recipes, Fabrizio was studying. She used the pause to get her MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

“I love AI. Specifically, for the live events and meetings and conferences industry, I think AI is going to give attendees a more personalized and unique experience. For a big show like CES, it's going to help attendees be more efficient and understand who is there and who they want to see. I think the business intelligence that AI will unlock is going to be very powerful,” she said.

Many traits have helped Fabrizio in her journey to the top. One of the most important is her ability to build relationships with everyone. Fabrizio is a member of Robin Sharma’s 5am Club. She feels this morning routine has helped her maximize her productivity.

CES is committed to Las Vegas through 2048. The show utilizes about ten hotels, three of the city’s largest convention centers and more.

Light Bulb Moment

Kastner studied hospitality at university, and when she took a course about incentive travel, a light bulb went off for her. After graduating, she worked on the hotel side at a destination management company. Later, she joined Maritz, where she helped run incentive travel programs for 12 years. Attending a conference, Kastner took a course about event strategy that changed the course of her career. 

SAP Sapphire Shines

When asked what event she has planned that she is most proud of, she says SAP Sapphire 2019 in Orlando. This SAP flagship event included 25,000 attendees, 35 workstreams, and 120 content team members alone. In total, 5,000 employees worked on it. In addition, the conference strategy was led by data.

Data Geek

According to Kastner, not much can’t be figured out with a pivot table. Now, with the addition of AI, her pivot tables are even more in-depth. She is leaning in to understand all the nuances of AI, which she says will change the work. Being so data-driven has been a differentiator in her career, she says. 

Learning From TED

Last year, Kastner applied and paid out of her own pocket to participate in the TED conference in Vancouver. It was worth it, and she was very impressed. Before she even got onsite, she had a feeling of belonging from a WhatsApp group created for first-timers. 

Big Difference Between the Business of Events and the Events Business

She said that event professionals tend to focus on logistics, not the business of events. And those are two distinctly different things. 

"The traditional membership value is diminishing," Reiser candidly reveals, pointing to the challenges facing associations worldwide. This captures the seismic shifts that have prompted organizations like ISTH to reassess and retool their value propositions to members.

This episode covers:

• Reiser’s varied and international career spans multiple association management roles, including his current role.
• He has implemented major shifts, including shifting from a biennial to an annual congress and insourcing almost all event-related roles.
• We discuss the importance of the real role of medical societies, which is ultimately to improve people’s lives
• We delve into the importance of public-facing initiatives such as World Kidney Day and World Thrombosis Day, both of which Tom was involved in launching.
• How Tom and ISTH work with suppliers as consultants and true partners
• And finally we look at the key trends that Tom sees as the biggest challenges and opportunities.

Head to www.skiftmeetings.com to explore our daily news coverage and free-to-access reports and events.

Ruff-Bell is the new chief program and strategy officer for TED. She oversees TED's flagship global events and conferences, TEDx programs and initiatives, global partnership sales, and key marketing verticals for the organization. She plays a vital role in shaping and executing TED's strategic plan, contributing to the advancement of its mission, operational excellence, and overall organizational growth.

This new role for TED brings growth areas together under one umbrella. Most know TED for its flagship events like TED, TEDWomen, and TED Countdown, but there were 3,400 other events held last year across 142 countries, bringing together 600,000 attendees in local communities. 

Ruff-Bell listens to thousands of TED Talks each year in her role. What would the title of the talk she would give? "How to Smile Through the Pain."

Read on at https://meetings.skift.com/monique-ruff-bell-smile-through-the-pain/

From a young age, Allgauer’s curiosity in planning was sparked by family vacation planning. Later, this fascination became a career trajectory when she attended a business conference with her father. Witnessing the intricacies of organizing a private dinner was a life-changing moment. Little did she know this inclination toward meticulous coordination would become her professional trademark.

The Value of Gathering Face-to-Face

When the Covid pandemic hit, Allgauer quickly realized the solid foundation that personal and professional relationships provided. The crisis underscored the significance of connections as she navigated the unpredictable challenges of event planning amidst a global shutdown.

Despite the rise of digital platforms, she passionately believes in the irreplaceable nature of in-person interactions. She is not alone, as FSI members rely on face-to-face meetings for successful networking.

Career Growth

Allgauer attributes a significant part of her career growth and success to her involvement with Meeting Professionals International (MPI). “I got involved with MPI for the education and I stayed for the community,” she said. She highlights the organization’s role in providing education and networking opportunities pivotal to her career ascension.

In the face of the industry’s unyielding pace and high demands, Allgauer sees artificial intelligence (AI) as a beacon of efficiency for overstretched planners. She envisions AI as a tool for operational strategy and a mechanism to improve efficiency. “I want to learn how to be more efficient. I want to help my team reduce some of the stress they’re feeling and help them with AI be more productive,” she said.

Crafting Experiences

Allgauer’s forward-thinking approach extends to the very nature of event planning itself. She insists, “People want experiences,” underscoring the necessity for events to offer unique and memorable moments. It’s about delivering exclusivity that attendees cannot find elsewhere, creating a lasting impact worthy of their time and investment.

She champions crafting bespoke experiences that resonate personally. The experiences she helps create aim to transcend mere information sharing to create events that imprint on the attendees’ memories. Her vision aligns with a generational shift where experiences triumph and an emerging preference for the memorable over the tangible.

Allgauer is not just responding to changes in the event planning landscape; she’s anticipating them. By recognizing the enduring power of relationships, driving the transition to experiential events, and embracing technologies like AI, she’s helping steer the industry toward a future where personal connections and innovation walk hand in hand.

Meeting planning is not impervious to global socio-political issues, so such issues inevitably impact destination selection. The big question that arises is whether or not to consider destinations with controversial laws. Cholewinski shares why APS chooses to hold meetings in such destinations while actively supporting local causes.

Excluding or even boycotting destinations due to controversial laws can seem like the right thing to do. However, Cholewinski argues it may not be the most effective way to enact change. "Boycotting does not solve the problem," he states, pointing out that such actions often harm local members and service industry workers the most. Instead, Cholewinski advocates for a more constructive approach, focusing on supporting local causes and initiatives that align with an organization's values.

Under Cholewinski's guidance, APS has shifted its strategy towards engaging with destinations in a way that supports local communities and advocates for change from within. Organizations can make a meaningful impact by partnering with local causes, especially those affected by adverse laws. This strategy benefits the cause and allows the event to proceed, benefiting the communities of physicists at these destinations.

Cholewinski's forward-thinking approach impacts the site selection process. APS now incorporates a comprehensive analysis of potential destinations, considering factors such as local laws, human rights campaign scores, and community safety. This meticulous process ensures that event locations align with the organization's values and support safe, inclusive environments for all attendees.

The strategy of supporting local causes over boycotting serves as a model for organizations looking to make a positive impact. APS's approach demonstrates that it's possible to host successful events while also contributing to meaningful change in communities. Organizations can support inclusivity and diversity by choosing engagement over exclusion, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility.

Cholewinski also looks for diversity when building his team. He values a specific trait — scrappiness. Amid the complexities of organizing large events, the ability to react swiftly and efficiently to unforeseen challenges is invaluable. Cholewinski explains, "I need someone that's going to be on-site, and if the building collapses around them, they know what to do right away."

As planners and organizations navigate the complexities of global issues, supporting local causes presents a viable alternative to boycotting, one that not only avoids the negative implications of such actions but also fosters positive change. As the industry evolves, this approach could redefine how organizations interact with destinations worldwide, prioritizing support and engagement over exclusion.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit www.skiftmeetings.com to get the insider scoop through our news, events, and reports.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit www.skiftmeetings.com to get the insider scoop through our news, events, and reports.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Don't miss our daily content, as well as our free reports and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Don't miss our daily content, as well as our free reports and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Don't miss our daily content, reports and events.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

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Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

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At Encore, she has been instrumental in driving initiatives around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DE&IB). She also contributed to the company's recent certification as a Great Place to Work in seven regions.

Central to Armstrong's role is advocating for a healthier work-life balance within the events industry. "If I could wave a magic wand, it would be to eliminate the stress of event planning while preserving the thrill of execution," she stated. She believes that although technology will continue to play a significant role in shaping events, the essence of in-person connections will prevail.

Encore's commitment to nurturing talent is evident through its internal programs like Encore University. Another example is its WAVE (Women in Audio, Visual, and Events) program, which is aimed at creating more inclusive opportunities within the traditionally male-dominated AV field. Its focus on career pathing reflects a growing awareness of workforce retention challenges. It is keenly aware of the evolving expectations of professionals seeking a rewarding career journey.

Armstrong stressed the importance of illustrating a clear career trajectory. Furthermore, she believes providing a fair, equitable, and fulfilling work environment is essential to attracting new talent. Reinforcing her belief in continuous learning, she encourages event professionals to become "ever learners," remaining open and adaptable to change.

As Armstrong looks ahead, she envisions events that break the mold of traditional formats. To do this, she prioritizes personalized attendee experiences and embraces the unpredictability of human nature. Ultimately, she's driven to ensure every event fosters a sense of belonging, reflecting Encore's ethos for its clients and employees. Armstrong is committed to improving the industry's standards for event professionals and participants.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

This episode was produced in partnership with Destinations International.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

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Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe now to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast. Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to ensure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast. Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Subscribe to make sure you don't miss an episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast. Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

This episode is sponsored by Visit Baltimore.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on the role technology can play in an event. Here are a few of the topics we cover: how technology should be in the background supporting the storytelling; the most powerful performances for the audience; the magic of theatricality and the willing suspension of disbelief; showbusiness executives need to be involved in both the show's creation and the running of the business; supporting each other's craft will create the best events possible.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on the challenges facing destinations in cities and states passing divisive legislation. Here are a few of the topics we cover: Travel advisories in place for Florida; If meeting planners should boycott a destination and what their alternatives may be; Being a welcoming destination for everyone; Convention center renovations and their future impact; Mentoring future female leaders.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on language, interpretation, and the role of communication at events. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The evolution of remote simultaneous interpretation
• The subtle, and controversial, differences between interpretation and translation
• Demystify myths around interpretation 
• Empowering participants through their native language
• The ephemeral but key role of conference interpreters
• The power of genuine storytelling

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on brand building through events and exhibitions. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Evolving from an exhibit house to strategic partner 
• The right way of doing face-to-face activations
• Why you need to think like a marketer, tying exhibition successes to business goals
• What constitutes a great mix at an event or exhibition
• Why showing how you are different beats claiming your are better and the challenges of branding

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on the resurgence of Detroit and what these developments can offer meeting and event planners. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• What is involved in renovating the Huntington Place convention center
• How their thriving music scene attracts groups
• Detroit's urban renewal story
• Capitalizing on Being the US's Only UNESCO City of Design
• How Detroit offers groups a creative spark

This episode is sponsored by Visit Detroit.

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on DMOs and CVBs' roles within the wider community. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How tourism can help improve communities
• The ways in which events can leave a legacy on a destination
• The importance of diversity
• How a destination manages the political decisions of its city or state
• Why a destination needs to tell its story authentically

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on the meeting industry's LGBT community. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Why an organization such as LGBT Meeting Professionals Association was needed
• How LGBT and DEI discussions have changed within the meetings industry
• Some of the challenges faced by the LGBT community and DEI as a whole 
• Ways the meetings industry gets DEI right

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events.

Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on the power of community building. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How different event technology companies fared coming out of the Covid pandemic
• Why matchmaking and a well-structured meeting program is the secret sauce for events
• The gap in the market for engaging online communities in specific sectors with pharma and life sciences 
• Why there has never been a better time to launch a company or community
• The role of content in community building

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

The conversation focuses on the Circular Economy. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• What is the circular economy?
• Why Flanders, as a destination looking to attract business events, is focused on the circular economy
• Some of the key events taking place in Flanders on the circular economy that also set great examples for other events
• How these kinds of events create a valuable legacy at a destination
• Where you start learning about circularity and circular economy processes

The ebook on Circular Economy can be found at https://www.meetinflanders.com/key-industries/circular-economy

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, reviews, and events.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Pay transparency creates equity in a company
• College degrees are no longer a requirement
• Steps to take to ensure everyone feels included
• How to make DE&I a focus

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How Covid Delayed the Opening of Caesars Forum
• Trifecta That Will Help Attract Even More Business Events
• Record Breaking 2023
• Breaking the Glass Ceiling as a Woman
• Developing Talent

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

• Why we created this report
• The current landscape of event technology
• The changes to features and functionalities
• The deal-breaker features we identified

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Working with impact starts with questioning the destination selection process
• Why societal impact includes everything (sustainability, DEI, legacy, etc.)
• The link between social innovation and the impact of business events
• How impact is what links short-term KPIs and outcomes to long-term change
• Why stories are so important to deliver qualitative impact

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Working from the bottom up in AV
• Partnering with competitors or co-opetition is the secret to success 
• The challenge of normalizing women in event production and AV, particularly behind the scenes
• The importance of following a program for achieving breakthroughs in fitness and life
• Why Anca is actively exploring the metaverse

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

This conversation focuses on sustainability, collaboration, turning obstacles into opportunities.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Adopting a strategic approach to improving their practices
• Sustainability belongs to all
• Change is uncomfortable but we must all embrace it and the discomfort of being outside our comfort zone
• Why we should look to turn obstacles into opportunities
• Sustainability isn’t a competitive advantage but an area where we must all collaborate

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

The conversation focuses on  belonging and the power of language plus more.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The need to speak the language of the c-suite and understand business objectives
• How event program consolidation is linked with corporate culture
• Why community and belonging are what makes events great, regardless of how senior you are or what your role is
• Why neurodiversity will change the way meeting experiences work
• How new workforce developments, sustainability, and the politics of meetings are top of mind for senior event leaders

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

The conversation focuses on the importance of community and mentorship and what it's like to break barriers and pave the way for others.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Why boycotting a destination may not always be the right move
• The need for inclusivity to be intentional
• The importance of diversity, which should always be evolving 
• The need for community when you are in a leadership role
• The role of mentors

Skift Meetings is defining the future of business events. Visit our website for the latest news, reports, and events.

The conversation focuses on proving the value of meetings to the wider business world.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How the events industry only started to learn how to tell its story after coming under attack from politicians during the 2008 financial crisis
• how the absence of meetings proved their importance during the Covid pandemic
• The value of local chapters, particularly with events like EMEC coming up
• Why MPI takes risks at their events, so planners don’t have to do that on their own
• Keeping an open mind about what MPI becomes and allowing people to customize their journey

The conversation focuses on Zenus AI. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The power of using video to study human behavior
• The advantages of using AI for understanding human behavior
• Why Zenus opted not to work with Personal Identifiable Information
• How the Zenus device and system works
• Why events offer a unique challenge with being temporary, often last minute and risk averse by default

This episode of The Skift Meetings Podcast was produced in partnership with Zenus.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The SITE Global Conference as a example of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for participants
• How to address the imbalance of female leadership across the meetings industry
• The importance of having a personal mission that goes beyond how we define ourselves through work
• Research results from the latest Incentive Research Foundation’s Trends report in partnership with FICP
• The need to nurture the next generation working in incentive travel

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• 6 reasons to use meetings, which is different to the objective of the meetings
• Why understanding people is so important to meeting design
• The importance of combining different ways of thinking to become a meeting designer
• Why meetings need more wellbeing and physical activity
• Why the board level needs to be involved in meeting design

The conversation focuses the newly announced partnership between Groups360 and Marriott International, which allows instant booking for small groups. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The benefits of instant booking to both hotels and customers
• The technology that facilitates instant bookings
• The shifting behaviors in online booking
• The role remote work has played in the recovery of the meetings industry

This episode was produced in partnership with Groups360

The conversation focuses on advocacy in the meetings industry. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Fully welcoming international exhibitors and attendees back to the U.S.
• Sustainability and climate change
• Promoting government involvement in developing the industry’s future workforce
• Bring back communicable disease coverage to event cancelation insurance

The conversation focuses on global trends for the exhibition industry in 2023. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The importance of data in making a business case for trade shows
• The recovery and reopening of China
• Adopting a year-round customer approach to
• Moving the needle on sustainability
• A thought-provoking vision for the future of trade shows

The conversation focuses on attendee research.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Asking questions to large number of people live is very powerful
• Why it’s important to matching sentiment data and behavior data 
• Overall attendance is now tracking at 84% across sectors, was 65% in the Spring
• Business and personal is overlapping - important new reality
• Continue to learn from your audience, consume information in all places, and accept that things will keep shifting

The conversation focuses on how group bookings are evolving and how the integration and partnership between Groups360 and Hilton is leading the way.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• An high-level overview of how global distribution works from hotel perspective
• Explore the power of discovery, filtering and instant booking online
• How to tackle RFP and lead spam and why conversion is what really matters
• All group and small meetings booking will be fully automated in the near future
• Why planners should embrace systems that allow for a transparent, simple and efficient world

This episode was produced in partnership with Groups360

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How RFID technology captured her attention and imagination, kickstarting Noodle Live
• Why they chose note to pivot to developing a virtual event platform during the pandemic and instead focused on reinventing their product and processes.
• The importance of ensuring a work/life balance for yourself and your team, what this means in practice and what it looks like at Noodle Live
• Why stepping back can be beneficial for your work and personal life and how Clemi achieves this.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The convention model for VIPARIS and Paris' position as a global business city
• Creating real partnerships with associations & the clients of ICCA members
• The need for the meetings industry to build back better and what this might mean for the ICCA model
• Why engagement is the best measure of an association’s success
• Why it's important to be part of an industry where impactful things happen

The conversation focuses on the obstacles facing the industry and how important it is to come together to contribute to long-term solutions.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How the role of destination management companies has changed.
• Dealing with systemic racism in the industry and how diversity, inclusion and equity, and that it must be an ongoing initiative. 
• Gun violence and the role a destination marketing organization can take. 
• How do we train, motivate, and educate employees with a focus on customer service,
• Why it’s important to create a compelling story. 
• Why mental wellness is a critical issue.  

Based on the data we collected and analyzed in our State of Business Events report we see nine key trends that will impact 2023 and beyond. All of these trends are in some way a consequence of the Covid pandemic and current uncertain economic climate, each with specific nuances and twists.

The nine event trends covered in this episode are:

1. The New Rules of Travel Planning
2. From Event Planners to Designers of Time
3. Events That Boost Remote Teams
4. Taking Intentionality From Buzzword to Event Best Practice
5. Making Events More Inclusive — Morality Versus Practicality
6. Event Marketing and the Field of Dreams Mentality
7. Designing Networking for Humanity 
8. Why Events Are Now Top Drivers For Revenue Growth
9. What Really Counts and Can Be Counted

The conversation focuses on the challenges with event technology and how a human and planner-centric approach is needed to event tech to succeed.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Radical differences between planners and event technologists
• Unique and stress-inducing needs to event planners when it comes to technology
• Why we need to unlock event data so we can make better decisions for an entire organization
• The current state of the metaverse and how it may develop over the next few years
• Some of the challenges that remain for the next generation of virtual events

Some of the themes covered are:

• The size of the event tech market after the Covid bubble
• Who was at the show and who was missing
• How education and event tech work well together
• The complex sales and marketing challenges of event tech
• New tools and concepts presented by startups

We hope you enjoy this special episode. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

The conversation focuses on venue sustainability and the power of being community led.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The community that built SWG3 and balancing for-profit venue hire and culturally led projects
• The Development of the area into a vibrant quarter with a clear environmental policy
• SWG3's unique heating system called BODYHEAT launched in 2021 at COP26 
• SWG3's ambitions of becoming a circular campus
• The need to constantly reimagine how you use the space and how you engage with the community

The conversation focuses on the accessibility of in-person events. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The dangers of making accessibility a check-box exercise
• Events should be responsible for ensuring accessibility is taken into account, not the attendees
• The importance of training and customer service
• Why it is important to remember than many people with disabilities do not self-identify this way
• The four components of accessibility information and the three pillars of accessibility

Our conversation revolved around using event tech to creative intuitive experiences.

Some of the topics we cover:

• How events have always been part of Andrew's entrepreneurial journey
• Why simplifying process and features is the way to go
• The importance of single source of content truth when it comes to event apps, websites and other internal or external 
• Why fun moments in virtual events really matter
• Why interaction is important to make people attending virtual events live

This podcast is produced by Skift Meetings, the leading media company embracing the future of business events. We invite you to explore all our content at www.skiftmeetings.com which includes daily news, reviews, reports, guides and live events, all created exclusively for professionals working in business events.

The conversation focuses on innovation and sustainable professional growth.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The pros and cons of entrepreneurship
• The importance of providing value to all event stakeholders
• Why sustainable growth does not happen without innovation
• The challenges of sustainability in the events industry
• The advantages of a segmented approach that differentiates between in-person and online event attendees

The conversation focuses on why belonging is important. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The Nue Project, a new Google initiative
• Why diversity and inclusion matters
• How Google plans their events
• The impact of hybrid work on business events
• Why ROI may no longer be the best measure of success

The conversation focuses on event tech innovation. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The ins and outs of funding and investment to event tech start-ups
• How to decide where to focus your development efforts
• Developing event tech that is able to service a global audience
• The importance of affordable pricing that’s easy to understand
• The pros and cons of offering Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) for event technology

The conversation goes behind the scenes and reveals some of the secrets of creating unique luxury event experiences inspired by fashion and food.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The importance of developing authentic relationships
• The move towards immersive experiences
• Building a relationship with your client
• The journey of a small business owner

The conversation focuses on the potential of virtual events in the financial services and professional investment sector

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The specific virtual event needs of the financial services and professional investment industry
• Why telling the story of a company is crucial when seeking investment or going public
• The need for high-touch services when dealing with high-net-worth individuals 
• The challenges of rapid growth during the pandemic and finding the right balance as a company
• Mark’s vision of AI powered search and filtering of investment opportunities

The conversation is a deep dive into hybrid events from both a production perspective and an audience perspective. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Why most content-light events struggle to work as virtual events
• Why in-person events without an online option are short sighted, unless this is strategic and intentional decision
• How sponsors are now finding good ways of getting value from virtual and hybrid events
• Why meetings and events are the best time/place to capture content for any organization 
• Five different types of hybrid events 

The two conversations revolve around the human-centric approaches to meeting and event design that can inspire and change attendees. Meetings and events that make an intentional and positive impact on everyone involved.

First you will hear about how designing events for connection and belonging can and should drive transformation. This conversation features Liz Lathan, co-founder at The Community Factory, Megan Henshall, global events strategic solutions lead at Google, and Naomi Clare Crellin, CEO and founder at Storycraft Lab.

The second conversion is about designing events for humans, not job titles and features Jesse Gainer, Director of Growth Strategy at C2 International.

The conversation focuses on how virtual events have evolved, including how audience expectations have changed and how event technology has advanced in the last few year.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The evolution of virtual events from reluctant pivoting to high level online productions
• How audiences have evolved and expect much more from virtual events today
• Why personalization is key to really impressing participants
• Why listening closely to event professionals is so important to developing successful event tech products
• Why the industry needs to break outside its bubble to really evolve

This episode, Being Nimble is Key for Both Event Planners and Venues, focuses on the importance of embracing flexibility to meet the needs of guests and attendees. Here are a few of the topics covered. 

• Why Jeff considers himself an accidental technologist
• The importance of relationship building
• Future forecasting
• The importance of flexibility
• The evolution of meetings and events post-COVID

This episode, The Renaissance of Mobile Technology, focuses on the importance of being able to embrace change and pivot. Here are a few of the topics covered. 

• The changes and considerations when leading a fully dispersed team
• What conferences have taught him about the current direction of the industry
• The continued importance of content strategy
• The renaissance of 2019 mobile technology paired with todays advancements
• The future roles of augmented reality, virtual reality and the metaverse

We talk about things like:

• The amazing benefits and drawbacks of working in event planning
• Defining where tech can help in event planning and in supporting the event experience 
• Why event professionals make the best event tech CEOs
• How the change in user expectations and how that impacts mobile event app adoption
• Why ultimately staffing remains the event industry’s biggest challenge

The conversation focuses on the future of association events. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How working with associations is inspiring, particularly when they really contribute to the advancement of humanity.
• Why taking time off and preserving our mental health is so important
• Why our job as event professionals is largely to take the stress out of events and travel
• Associations are looking at different and more commercial business models - has advantages and disadvantages
• Event tech needs to be simple and reduce distractions to be effective

The conversation focuses on the next evolution of virtual events. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How the SoLoMo (Social, Local, Mobile) movement influenced event tech
• The blurred line between developing tech for remote teams and events
• The difficult choice to work on one feature or create a product suite
• Why connecting online and virtual audiences for networking may be desirable at all
• Why connecting people and serendipity are so important to the meeting industry

The conversation focuses on event marketing and the importance of small scale meetings for businesses.

Some of the topics we cover include:

• How the concept of events can apply to so many different types of gatherings
• The importance of impressing guests with great design
• The challenges of create a Software-as-a-Service tool for the event industry
• Why small events outperform large events
• Why data and ROI are even more important going forward

The conversation focuses on event tech, event design and how to run a successful event tech business in Europe.

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Differences between doing business in US v Europe and what to consider when expanding into a new region
• The current state of the event tech industry
• The way events, and event tech, have changed in the pandemic years
• Changes to in-person events for the near future
• Overall changes the event industry should look to implement

The conversation focuses on the unique sustainability role at Maritz Global Events. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• What is the difference between wellbeing and wellness
• The long term impacts of incorporating wellbeing at events
• What it means to design an event with wellness as a core design principle
• What prevented the event industry from connecting with Wellbeing before now
• How sustainability goals impact events

The conversation focuses on advocating for the event industry in the wider business community.Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Aggregating resources and addressing pan-industry issues are the main areas of focus for the Events Industry Council
• Bringing together members to discuss the state of the industry, particularly during the Covid pandemic, was very important for the industry.
• The importance of sharing impact of events and reasons for hosting events with the wider business community
• Advocacy is really important, but let’s not forget that people are at the heart of what we do
• Only having meaningful conversations with partners will lead to positive change

The conversation focuses on one student’s perspective on the future of the event industry.

. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Panashe’s unique journey from Zimbabwe to Poland and to IMEX in Frankfurt, Germany
• What makes the event industry interesting for newcomers
• How international environments change people’s perspective + Desire to return to Zimbabwe and inspire the local event industry
• Why entertainment and fun should be a part of all business events
• How do students feel about the metaverse and if it is the future of events?

The conversation focuses on the rise of African destinations for business events. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• The challenge getting governments and investors to appreciate the value of a convention bureau
• Why a convention bureau no better investment for a destination because it is key to attracting additional foreign direct investment
• The process of working with the world bank in setting up national convention bureaus
• The importance of forming regional event industry associations to unite stakeholders
• Africa 2063 - the African Union’s development blueprint to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development.

This episode, Winning on Support, focuses on taking the stress out of working with event technology. Here are a few of the topics covered. 

• Decided to win on support - understanding the stress of event professionals
• The importance of referrals from all sides of the industry
• Don’t neglect the people who never went to in-person events in the first place
• Too many events take place without any sort of purpose - that is an iss

The conversation focuses on the State of Virtual Event Tech. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Who are the new clients for virtual event tech platforms
• Why Tony doesn’t believe in hybrid events
• How reconnecting at in-person events is all people need right now, but exhibitors and sponsors will soon demand more ROI
• How in-person events rely on emotional responses while virtual events need tech that works
• The importance of virtual event attendees overcoming the negative association with the Covid pandemic

You can also find the LinkedIn post discussed at the start of the episode here and information the work Tony has been doing to help Ukraine here and here.

This week’s conversation focuses on Change Management. Some of the topics covered in this week’s episode include:

• Difference between facilitation and training
• Challenge for facilitators is connecting to business results
• Engagement is attention in disguise
• A great event starts way before it has actually started
• If you’re the same person before and after an event, then the event has failed
• Acceleration of change is the biggest business challenge ahead

Catch up on previous episodes, and ensure you don’t miss those to come, by subscribing to the Event Manager Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. 

My name is Miguel Neves and I am the editor-in-chief of EventMB. In this episode titled Nothing Matters More Than Connecting People, I have the pleasure of speaking with Fiona Bruder, President, Americas at George P Johnson Experience Marketing

We cover a lot of topics around creating experiences that connect people including:

• We must always remember that we are always dealing with humans and understand that connecting people is what makes great events unique
• Taking about a global perspective is the worst way to connect, you have show up and connect personally and individually
• Why you don’t need to be the smarter person in the room, but should always be the most prepared person in the room
• How finding innovation require a strong innovation strategy that is part of your process
• Why we should move away from “events” and towards “experiences”

I hope you enjoy listening to this conversation and I invite you to check out other episodes of the Event Manager Podcast on our website or subscribe through your favorite podcast service.

The conversation focuses on Destination and Event Marketing. Some of the topics covered in this week’s episode include:

• How the pandemic has pivoted content from high-production video to more raw content
• The importance of making advertising disclosures clear in influencer marketing
• Why it takes at least five years to see the results of destination marketing 
• Events should connect and engage participants online in advance so that deeper networking and more complex topics can be discussed onsite.
• Why smaller interactive events create strong community connections 

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Why passion is an important part of building a business strategy
• The importance of bringing outside knowledge into the event industry
• Understanding participant experience is the secret to making events stand out
• Why being attractive to younger generations is important for the continuity of the industry
• Why we cannot ever afford to stop collaborating inside and outside the industry

Our conversation focuses on community building for associations. Among other topics we cover:

• How the biggest value of associations is the ability to connect people
• How organizations benefit from being community focused
• Why communities must always focus first on the needs of its members 
• Why bottom-up communities succeed and how this requires organizations to let go of control
• How creating a culture of dialogue requires a big shift in mindset

Open Social has recently released "The Association Community Compendium - How to harness the collective power of your members"

The main topic of our conversation is the recently launched book, Event Success - Maximizing the Business Impact of In-person, Virtual, and Hybrid Experiences written by Alon along with fellow Bizzabo co-founders Eran Ben-Shushan and Boaz Katz.

We discuss a wide range of related topics including:

• How the best consumer experiences today are hybrid
• How more than ever before, planners are understanding that value of data 
• Why a great event is an impactful event
• Why a hybrid event strategy is necessary in the current climate of uncertainty
• What a successful event of the future looks like, which involves creating completely unique experiences for every single participant

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How incentive travel is unique in the way it starts in business environment but actualizes in tourism industry
• How rewarding and recognizing people crucial to the success of a company
• How incentive travel has evolved to include motivational events
• Why it’s important to connect incentive objectives with destinations and to connect incentive participants with people at the destination 
• Why a lack of human resources and climate justice are the big challenges ahead for the event industry

The conversation focuses on how independent planners can deal with the challenges and opportunities they are facing.

• Providing a better alternative is the secret to managing client expectations
• Why giving attendees choice is so important
• Why interaction is crucial in hybrid events
• What opportunities exist for event professionals in the metaverse
• Why the event industry needs to be more united in order to be recognized

We discuss the recent findings from CEIR’s research and cover some eye-opening topics including:

• Real-world statistics on the return to in-person events
• The growing trend of companies embracing digital channels in their go-to-market strategies
• The continued demand for in-person exhibition opportunities
• A research-backed forecast for when the exhibition industry will return to 2019 levels

Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• Why destination marketing requires an alternative view
• How destinations have two masters, the visitors and the local community
• Why event professionals should get involved in industry associations and how that can really benefit them
• How event professionals are fortunate to be able to contribute to societal issues, sustainability issues and inclusivity issues
• Why the event industry should aim to be more reflective rather than reactive

The conversation focuses on the exciting world of destination marketing. Here are a few of the topics we cover:

• How cultural exchange can make events truly enriching experiences
• How destinations can help events drive change
• The importance of managing expectations for any destination
• Recipe for destinations to make use of technology in their marketing strategy
• Why a long-term investment strategy in the metaverse, web 3.0 and NFTs may be important for destinations

The conversation focuses on how mentoring can empower and inspire women in the event industry. We discuss: 

• Unusual career paths in the event industry
• How mentoring inspires and supports event professionals
• The value of a structured mentoring program
• How shared mentoring experiences bring people together
• What can we expect from the current supply chain crunch, the brain drain challenge and dealing with more and more last-minute requests

We discuss: 

• Why documenting your experience should be the basis of your own content
• The challenges of taking on multiple overlapping roles in events
• Why there may still be challenges ahead for the return of in-person events 
• The rising expectation for in-person events to be transposed online for both live streaming and on-demand content
• The new challenges of getting attendees to commit to virtual events

• The importance of consciously creating a digital strategy for both events and businesses in the event industry
• Why event tech vendors should work collaboratively with digital event experts to help clients create outstanding digital events
• Overcoming the challenges of creating engaging digital events
• How digital events can absolutely benefit venues and destinations, provided there is a well-defined digital strategy
• What events can and should be hybrid in format

In this episode, Tim Arnold covers the concept and the ins and outs of what he calls Both/And Thinking. We cover a lot of ground including:

• The key differences between a both/and approach and an either/or approach
• Why an either/or approach is not useful when we are looking for connection and cooperation
• Why it is possible to have both innovation and having something familiar and safe
• Why taking time to listen to others with different perspectives can be the best way to make decisions
• Why dealing with healthy tensions is positive
• How taking time for tone setting and naming the core issues can really improve outcomes
• How connection is a hugely beneficial feature of events
• Beyond the spectacular events can really be impactful when they change the way we think, or when we create new connections

• The fantastic mission of the event industry: connecting people
• Why the event industry should work better and closer with tech
• Why having lots of event problems to solve is great news for event tech entrepreneurs
• Success stories of always-on events
• Which verticals of event tech are most exciting right now
• Why having digital offices and digital venues really is the future

• Why difficult journeys make us more resilient and lead to better products and services
• Why sustainability needs to be a major consideration for all event professionals
• Why building a community and not an agency is the key to success
• The key differences between a TV host and a conference emcee
• How many of the big challenges the event industry is facing come down to siloing
• Dealing with the permanent changes to business travel and events

We cover topics such as:

• Job titles and accolades are not as important as what you are creating
• The importance of choosing our environments, which include the people, and the activities around us
• How a good leader must be authentic to lead effectively
• How many investors are really looking to invest in people, more than products or services
• How the absence of long term planning adds stress and takes away the feeling that people can achieve their objectives

In this episode EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, and guest, Joe Atkinson, discuss stress, technology, conference planning and much more including:

• How bad event experiences can lead to important insights
• How Joe’s unique IT and events background led him to create an event tech tool
• Why the time-based nature of events makes the event industry different to others, for good and bad
• Compounding challenges around stretched workforces asked to do more
• Why event tech vendors dream of creating SaaS products and why that doesn’t work for the event industry

They cover topics such as:

• How flexibility and cooperation with all clients and partners is key to delivering events in times of uncertainty
• Why creative approaches to online events in 2020 have shifted to more practical content-driven approaches in 2021
• How IMEX plans to continue to experiment with ways to bring the trade show to life online
• How IMEX is internationally not called a hybrid show and is not trying to offer business appointments online
• What drove the resilient IMEX team is be closer to clients and partners than ever before
• Why IMEX has invested in IT, innovation and marketing and design
• What a hybrid workforce means for the event industry
• Why more sustainable events are possible should be the goal of all event organizers

In this episode, EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, and guests Shane Lewis and Elliot Jakobsen discuss not only their experiences with imposter syndrome but also cover lots of ground about the future of events and how event technology will continue to be part of all events going forward, and more including:

• How there may have never been a more exciting time to work in event tech
• How social side of the event industry is a major motivating factor for event professionals
• Shane and Jakob’s specific experiences with imposter syndrome
• The possible reasons why so many event professionals suffer from imposter syndrome
• How the added pressure of pivoting to virtual impacted event professionals
• The best ways of working with content, now and in the future
• Predict how event tech vendors may shift their focus post-pandemic

In this episode EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, deputy editor, Angela Tupper, and guests discuss hybrid engagement strategies, and topics including:

• Covid fatigue - best advice to planners
• What do you say to those who say it's time to drop virtual and go back to in-person-only events?
• Event data - Why do we need to really understand data to make it actionable? How do we prepare for working with data in 2022 and beyond?
• Event promotion - Speakers and sponsors as brand ambassadors key to event promotion?
• Making the best use of event content during and after events

In this episode titled, “Why London’s Event Industry Is Booming Again,” Tracy Halliwell discusses how London’s meeting and event sector is growing exponentially, and how this rebound relates to larger industry trends. Topics include:

• Whether revenge attendance is already happening
• How London's sustainability initiatives are changing the game
• When global business travel will return to pre-pandemic levels
• How to pick hybrid-event-friendly destinations
• The value of government programs like subvention and event insurance

In this episode titled "How Data and Strategic Marketing Drive Better Event ROI", Kathryn Frankson shares her expertise on mining event data for insights and designing marketing strategies for today’s hybrid world. Topics include how to build on what’s working well, how to target specific audiences, and how to make your virtual and in-person experiences work together for the highest possible event ROI.

In this episode EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, and guest Leanne Calderwood discuss: 

• How our personal brands become part of what our clients experience
• Why you should always tie your personal branding efforts to professionals goals
• Why investing in one main platform for personal branding is the way to go
• Why LinkedIn is the ideal place advocate and share our thought leadership
• What are the content styles that work best right now on LinkedIn
• Why the industry needs innovation and why simple returning to normal is not the best possible outcome of the pandemic

• How do you make technology a catalyst of community and not a deterrent to community
• The important difference between functional and utility-based software
• Why tracking what people do rather than what people declare is a game-changer
• How organizations are ultimately looking for value and that value may not necessarily come from events as we know them
• How we need to adapt to the reality of the hybrid attendee

• The flight to quality across the event industry
• The real purpose of meetings
• Events are more about rituals than content because they give us a sense of shared purpose
• How remote workforces means more regional-wide meetings to build culture and promote understanding
• How smart destinations use resources (people/companies) for the benefit of events which ultimately benefits the destination
• Future predictions include: failed meetings, merged meetings and whole companies departments attending meetings as a retreat
• The meetings of 20 people today are the events of 1,000 in the future

In this episode EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, and guest, Ori Lahav, discuss:

• Why conferences need to think and act as brands
• Explore the reasons behind developing your own virtual events solution
• Some of the surprising challenges of virtual events
• The advantages and disadvantages of different hybrid event models
• How event professionals need to also be experts in on-demand content
• Why harmonizing travel policies is needed to restart international in-person events

In this episode EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, and guest, Ade Allenby, discuss:

• How there is a big people component to leveraging new technologies
• Why speed is crucial to innovation
• Why we need to understand attendee needs at different key points of the attendee journey
• Why only some events may be suitable to become year-long communities
• Why in-person event attendees should recognize and appreciate the advantages of getting away from day-to-day work

In this episode EventMB's editor-in-chief, Miguel Neves, and deputy editor, Dylan Monorchio discuss:

• Love for bringing people together and it brings him joy
• How the word community is thrown around a lot and the concept deserves to be better understood
• How Dan defines community as something that gives people a sense of belonging
• How communities needs more than one qualifier to get people to really connect
• How focusing on community management may really powerful for event planners despite 
• The challenge of creating a sense of exclusivity while respecting diversity, equity and inclusion
• Dan believes that event planning is in everybody’s job description but it’s not in every person’s job title
• Community organizing skills are the differentiator between good and great event professionals.
• How event organizers should define what community means for them and their event and also name the community