The EVMC Podcast - Explore the personal journeys and experiences of people in the live entertainment industry. Join hosts Dave Redelberger and Paul Hooper as they talk with guests who work in live entertainment about what they are currently doing, their history in the industry, and the challenges they faced along the way to lead them to where they are today. Adventures In Venueland is a side project of the Event & Venue Marketing Conference, a non-profit conference that brings together diver ...
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Event & Venue Marketing Conference Podcasts
The Event Innovator Show is your go-to podcast for fresh ideas and breakthrough strategies in the event industry. Whether you're launching your first event or looking to reignite the impact of an established one, join host Phil Mershon—event strategist, coach, and author of Unforgettable: The Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences—as he interviews leading event creators and innovators. Each episode uncovers the secrets behind successful events, exploring everything from cutting-ed ...
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Welcome to GatherGeeks, a place where people passionate about the power of live experiences come together. Join David Adler, chairman and founder of BizBash, as he discusses the latest news and trends affecting event marketers, meeting strategists, nonprofit organizers, and everyone in between. This podcast by BizBash is the destination for information, innovation, and inspiration for anyone involved in planning events and meetings, from conferences, trade shows, and fund-raising galas to pr ...
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Craft Your Unforgettable Introduction The Memory Dart Way with Steve Woodruff
45:46
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45:46Have you ever felt awkward introducing yourself at events? You're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Steve Woodruff, known as the "King of Clarity," to explore a revolutionary approach to networking that could change the way we connect at conferences and beyond. Steve is on a mission to replace the outdated elevator pitch with something he…
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We’re headed to “The District” for this episode to talk with Chanelle Grimm, Marketing Director for Monumental Sports & Entertainment (Capital One Arena, Eagle Bank Arena, and District E) in Washington D.C. We begin by talking about this year’s EVMC and some of the takeaways from sessions at the conference in Atlanta before diving into an overview …
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Ten Ways Speakers Become Event Superstars with Phil Mershon
11:19
11:19
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11:19"I would never invite that speaker again!" If you're a speaker, you never want to hear those words. And the truth is, you never will since organizers only share this with other event planners. What would you like to hear instead? "She was the best speaker ever. Great content, easy to work with, and she even helped set up tables when we were short s…
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Fostering Meaningful Interactions at Large Scale Events with Jim Louderback
51:19
51:19
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51:19Have you ever wondered how to create truly engaging events that keep attendees coming back year after year? In this episode, I sit down with Jim Louderback, a veteran of the creator economy and event industry, to explore innovative strategies for audience engagement and event design. Jim shares his wealth of experience from running VidCon, one of t…
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Live from Atlanta – sit in with us as we talk with J Carter, the visionary Founder & Managing Partner behind ONE Musicfest, as we chat in front of a live audience at the 2025 Event & Venue Marketing Conference. We talk with J about what makes Atlanta special as he tells us about ONE Musicfest, the Southeast’s largest multi-day urban progressive mus…
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Investing in Big Names to Amplify Your Event Impact with JC Hite
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49:47
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49:47Have you ever considered launching your own event but felt overwhelmed by the prospect? In this episode, I sit down with JC Hite, the visionary behind Scale with Stability Summit, to uncover the strategic decisions and lessons learned from creating a faith-based business conference for entrepreneurs and CEOs. Strategic Advantages in Event Planning …
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Engineer Authentic Connections at Your Next Event with Angie Callen
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48:00
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48:00Have you ever wondered what it takes to create an event that truly resonates with your audience? In this episode, I sit down with Angie Callen, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Career Benders and The Modern Coach, to uncover the secrets of crafting unforgettable event experiences. As a self-proclaimed "recovering engineer who loves people," Ang…
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We’re headed out west to the stepping stone to the Central Valley – Escalon, California – to chat with Cassie Gause, Co-founder & Partner at C&K Media Solutions. Cassie tells us all about her company, which offers marketing, sponsorship, and management support for venues, promoters, tours, and artists - from one-off events to entire tours. We learn…
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How Social Media Marketing World Creates Lasting Impact with Michael Stelzner
47:36
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47:36Have you ever wondered what it takes to create a successful event that keeps attendees coming back year after year? In this episode, I sit down with Michael (Mike) Stelzner (and my boss), the visionary behind Social Media Marketing World, to uncover the secrets of building and sustaining a thriving conference in the ever-changing landscape of digit…
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From Vision to Reality: Creating Immersive Brand Experiences with Caroline Correia
54:22
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54:22Are you ready to elevate your events from good to extraordinary? In this episode, I sit down with Caroline Correia, a seasoned event strategist with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Caroline shares her insights on creating high-impact experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees. We even came up with a new name for event exp…
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From Vision to Unforgettable: The Power of an Event Architect with Phil Mershon
8:44
8:44
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8:44Have you ever felt that your events are missing that special spark, despite flawless execution? In this episode, I share a game-changing concept that could revolutionize how you approach event planning: the role of an event architect. Drawing from my personal experiences and conversations with fellow industry professionals, I explore why bringing i…
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BONUS EPISODE – Peace up ✌️ A-Town down 🅰️ – the 2025 Event & Venue Marketing Conference (EVMC) is just around the corner and we have everything you need to know as you pack and prepare for this year’s SOLD OUT conference in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosts Paul and Dave are joined by a trio of guests which help craft this podcast version of a KBYG: Kim All…
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Building Company Culture Through Corporate Summits with Cari Watson
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45:53
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45:53Have you ever wondered how a rapidly growing company maintains its culture and keeps employees connected across hundreds of locations? In this episode, I sit down with Cari Watson, Senior Vice President at Westland Insurance, to explore how their annual Leadership Summit plays a crucial role in fostering connection, alignment, and growth. Building …
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We’re back in the city that’s so nice they named it twice, the financial capital of the world – New York City. On this episode we chat with Joyce Leveston, CEO of New York Convention Center Operation Corporation (NYCCOC), which oversees the Javits Center, one of the busiest convention centers in the world. Resting right on the Hudson River, on the …
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From Contacts to Connections: Crafting Community for Your Conference with Katie Brinkley
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42:37
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42:37Are you ready to take your event marketing to the next level? In this episode, I sit down with Katie Brinkley, a social media strategist with two decades of experience and author of "Social Shift." We dive deep into the world of community building and effective social media strategies for event organizers. The Power of Community How online connecti…
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Crafting Magnetic Events Your Attendees Will Rave About: Insights from Amanda Lea Kaiser
48:44
48:44
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48:44Are you ready to take your events from good to extraordinary? In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Kaiser, a researcher and engagement expert who has conducted over 477 interviews to uncover the secrets of attendee engagement. We explore how to create memorable experiences that keep participants coming back year after year. The Heart of Engageme…
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Music City welcomes us back as we head to Nashville to chat with Dustin Turner, Music Marketing Executive at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Dustin walks us through his day to day, and explains how CAA often functions as a bridge between promoters and management teams, working with the artist teams to figure out what the creative is going to look li…
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Broadway Secrets for Electrifying Your Next Event with Wendee Lee Curtis
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43:39
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43:39Have you ever wondered what makes Broadway performances so captivating and transformative? In this episode, I sit down with Wendee Lee Curtis, a Broadway veteran with decades of experience, to uncover the secrets behind the magic of theater and how they can be applied to create unforgettable events. Wendee shares her journey from a young girl dream…
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We’re headed to Edmonton for this episode, home of the Oilers, to catch up with Chris Ng-Muk-Yuen, Marketing Manager for Rogers Place and ICE District. Chris tells us about the venue and surrounding district, and its place in the city and approach to engaging with fans. Fresh off the Edmonton Oilers’ run to the Stanley Cup Finals last season, learn…
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From Maxed Credit Cards to Million-Dollar Events: The Joe Pulizzi Story
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49:54What happens when you bet everything on a dream that most people think is crazy? In this riveting conversation with content marketing pioneer Joe Pulizzi, we explore the high-stakes gamble that transformed the marketing world. Joe reveals how he maxed out credit cards to launch Content Marketing World in Cleveland (of all places!)—a decision that w…
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Let’s talk premium! On this episode of Adventures In Venueland we head back to California and chat with Michele Kajiwara, Senior Vice President, Premium Business & Events at Crypto.com Arena and AEG, and the 2024 WISE Woman of the Year. Michele oversees the sales and service of premium seats, suites, lounges, and hospitality spaces - supporting the…
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Beyond The Slide Deck: Transforming Forgettable Talks Into Unforgettable Experiences with Phil Mershon
18:00
18:00
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18:00Ever sat through a presentation and thought, "This could have been an email"? In this episode, event experience veteran Phil Mershon unpacks the 12 critical mistakes even experienced speakers make—and provides practical solutions to transform your next talk from forgettable to remarkable. Drawing from witnessing hundreds of corporate presentations,…
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The 3-Minute Stare: How Vulnerability Creates Community That Lasts with Dana Malstaff
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49:32What if the secret to building an unshakeable community isn't another marketing funnel or content strategy, but something far more fundamental? In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dana Malstaff, founder of Boss Mom, who reveals the counterintuitive approach that helped her build a thriving community of entrepreneur mothers. You'll discover…
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Put on your shades and pull back that convertible top because we’re headed to Los Angeles for this episode where we chat with Alex Hodges, Chief Executive Officer of Nederlander Concerts. Alex, who is in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, recipient of the T.J. Martell Foundation’s “Spirit of Excellence” Award, and recipient of the SEVT Lifetime Achiev…
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Reimagining Events Where Connections Trump Keynotes with Vincent Pugliese
41:08
41:08
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41:08Have you ever felt frustrated by traditional conferences? The endless parade of speakers, packed schedules, and limited opportunities for meaningful connections? I certainly have. That's why I was intrigued when I heard about Vincent Pugliese's innovative "unconference" concept. Vincent reveals how he transformed his frustration with typical confer…
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We’re headed to the Garden State for this episode and talking with Michelle McCarthy, Founder & CEO of MCC Marketing Group. Michelle, who is based in Jersey City in the New York City market, tells us about her experience with launching her business and the excitement and challenges that come along with it. She emphasizes the importance of a strong …
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Symphony's Secret Weapon: Connection with Holly Mulcahy
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45:00What happens when a prison music program revolutionizes the symphony experience? Meet Holly Mulcahy, a disruptive force in classical music who's transforming how orchestras compete in the Netflix era. As Concertmaster of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and curator of audience engagement, Holly reveals how breaking down traditional barriers between m…
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From Monsoons to Millions: How One Producer Saved NYC's Biggest Holiday Market in 6 Weeks with Brooksie Hughes
45:49
45:49
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45:49Picture this: You're standing in a torrential downpour in the heart of Bryant Park, with just 42 days to launch New York City's first-ever holiday market. Your client wants custom-built European-style chalets that would take months to manufacture. Oh, and you need 100 Christmas trees... four days before Thanksgiving. Welcome to the world of event p…
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Right on the edge of the Chesapeake Bay, join us for a visit to wonderful Baltimore as we chat with Aly Katz, Brand Manager for CFG Bank Arena, an Oak View Group facility. Aly talks about her role at the venue, where she oversees three key areas: back of house (artist gifting, crew activities, promoter relations), front of house (fan activations, p…
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The Hidden Flaws in Event Networking—and How to Fix Them with Baily Hancock
47:17
47:17
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47:17Ever wonder why those "networking opportunities" at events often feel more awkward than authentic? In this enlightening conversation with professional friend-maker Baily Hancock, we uncover why traditional event networking falls short—and how to transform those moments into genuine connections that last. You'll discover: Why the standard "cocktail …
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Ditch the Conference Room: Building Trust Through Zip Lines and Campfires with Adrienne Dorison
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46:41
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46:41Picture yourself dangling from a zip line, heart racing, surrounded by fellow entrepreneurs who started as strangers but will end up as lifelong connections. In an era of polished business conferences and luxury retreats, one company dared to strip away the fancy hotels and PowerPoint presentations in favor of bunk beds and trust falls. Adrienne Do…
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It’s Episode 100 and we’re running it all the way back to Episode 1 by having back on our first return guest – Nina Jackson, Director of Marketing & Public Relations at NRG Park, an ASM Global managed property in Houston, TX. Nina oversees marketing and PR at NRG Park, a 300 acre sports and entertainment complex that hosts over 500 events and over …
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The Power of Play: How One Coach is Transforming Conference Education Forever Justin Moore
48:11
48:11
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48:11What if the secret to transforming how creators learn about sponsorships isn't another PowerPoint presentation, but a game? In this eye-opening episode, sponsorship coach Justin Moore reveals what seven years of landing brand deals taught him about learning. After generating over $5 million through 500+ successful sponsorships, he spotted a fundame…
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Put on your party hat, grab some champagne, and meet us in The Big Apple! For this special episode we ring in 2025 by taking a look at the most viewed event worldwide – New Years Eve in Times Square, New York City. We talk with Damian Santucci, SVP of Production & Operations at Times Square Alliance, a non-profit business improvement district (BID)…
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The Most Underrated Event Strategy: How Intentional Discomfort Drives 80% Retention Rates with Heather Wenninger
42:19
42:19
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42:19Imagine hosting an event where you ask participants to try on swimsuits together, surf for the first time, or zip-line through a rainforest. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Yet these seemingly uncomfortable moments are exactly what's driving unprecedented client retention rates in the experience economy. In this eye-opening episode, exper…
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Beyond the Introduction: How Professional Emcees Transform Event Experiences with Quinn Conyers
40:44
40:44
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40:44Think professional emcees just introduce speakers and share housekeeping notes? Think again. Discover how the right emcee can turn your standard conference into an unforgettable experience, keep energy levels perfect throughout multi-day events, and seamlessly handle those inevitable behind-the-scenes disasters without your audience ever knowing so…
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Happy New Year Venuelanders! 🎊 As we kick off 2025 and look ahead to our official Episode 100, we decided to get our team together to look back at episodes one through ninety nine (as well as our variety of bonus episodes) and talk about some of our favorite movements. This isn’t your normal clip show though! Join us for some interesting behind the…
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Beyond the Dance Floor: How Science and Soundtracks Engineer Unforgettable Experiences with Will Curran
58:03
58:03
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58:03What do DJ booths and neuroscience have in common? According to event industry veteran Will Curran, they're both essential to understanding how to create truly unforgettable experiences. From his early days as a college DJ growing a 5,000+ following on Facebook (when that was huge), Will has cracked the code on how music, energy, and human connecti…
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Waves of Change: How the Right Location Creates Transformative Spaces with Krista Inochovsky
46:30
46:30
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46:30What if we get lost at sea? What if that's exactly what we need? In a world of constant connectivity and back-to-back Zoom calls, there's a revolutionary movement happening in professional development. Top entrepreneurs and thought leaders are discovering that their biggest breakthroughs don't happen in conference rooms or through online mastermind…
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For Episode 99 we catch up with our friend and EVMC Hall of Famer, Jim Delaney, Founder/CEO of Activate Sports & Entertainment. Jim, who is a 30-year veteran sports and event marketer, talks to us about his latest adventure becoming what he calls a “digital nomad” – working on projects remotely as he visits venues and lives in different cities for …
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Event Planning Secrets: How to Create Instagram-Worthy Moments Without Breaking the Bank with Valentina Ruffoni
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47:36Ever wonder how some events create those perfect Instagram moments while others feel completely forgettable? Whether it's the lighting, the atmosphere, or those unexpected delights that make everyone reach for their phones, there's actually a science behind making events share-worthy – and it doesn't require a massive budget. In this episode of The…
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The Anti-Boring Blueprint: How to Create Event Moments People Actually Remember with Jordan Gill
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40:53Tired of watching your attendees scroll through their phones while your speakers deliver "death by PowerPoint"? In this game-changing episode with Jordan Gill, we're shattering the conventional conference playbook and revealing how to create magnetic moments that keep people present, engaged, and talking about your event for months. You'll discover…
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Live from backstage at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, we chat with Rachel Bomeli, Vice President of Facility Operations for the facility. We join Rachel the morning after a big show the previous night and learn all about this truly unique venue which features a wide array of architectural styles. We talk about the design of the theatre, their…
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The Super Fan Formula: Why Taylor Swift's Playbook Should Be Your Event Strategy eith Brittany Hodak
43:42
43:42
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43:42What if your event could generate the same fevered anticipation as a Taylor Swift concert? In this must-listen episode, customer experience expert Brittany Hodak (who's worked with Amazon, Disney, and yes - even Taylor Swift herself) reveals the psychology behind turning ordinary attendees into passionate superfans. You'll discover: • The surprisin…
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Dancing, Love Notes & Breakthroughs: Unconventional Event Strategies that Build Community with Sigrun Gudjonsdottir
43:44
43:44
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43:44Picture an event where business metrics meet raw emotion, where CEOs dance between sessions, and where handwritten love notes forge lasting connections. When Swiss-based business mentor Sigrun Gudjonsdottir decided to throw out the traditional conference playbook, she discovered that the most powerful moments aren't always on the agenda. In this ey…
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It’s a party all day in RVA! Join us on the east coast as we head to Richmond, Virginia to chat with Brittany Herndon, Director of Sales & Marketing for Altria Theater and Dominion Energy Center – both managed by ASM Global. Brittany, who also serves as Regional Marketing Director for ASM Global's theatrical venues, tells us about Richmond and what…
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From Canvas to Connection: How Live Art Transforms Events with Annika Wooton
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42:40Ever wonder how to turn an ordinary event into an extraordinary experience? In this episode, speed painting artist Annika Wooton reveals how live art can transform your next conference, meeting, or corporate event from predictable to unforgettable. From her 90-second performances at Miss America to halftime shows at WNBA games, Annika shares how sh…
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The Experience Blueprint: Building Memorable Events One Detail at a Time with Dan Gingiss
1:10:09
1:10:09
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1:10:09Ever wonder why some events are instantly forgettable while others live on in stories for years? The secret isn't in the big, flashy moments—it's hidden in the details most planners overlook. From double-sided name badges to perfectly timed coffee breaks, these micro-moments can make or break your event's success. The Event Innovator Show brings yo…
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Creating an Elite Event Experience: How Flavor Media Summit Targets Advanced Food Bloggers with Megan Porta and Melissa Erdelak
45:44
45:44
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45:44Ever wonder how to create an event that sells out before it's even marketed? In this episode, co-founders Megan Porta and Melissa Erdelak reveal how they built the Flavor Media Summit, an exclusive gathering for advanced food bloggers. Learn how they transformed a gap in their industry into a premium event experience that has attendees eagerly sign…
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From the 313 to the 303, we’re chatting with Omar Gates, Marketing & Advertising Coordinator for the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche at Kroenke Sports & Entertainment in Denver. After chatting with Omar about Denver and some exciting development plans announced recently, we dive into his history in the industry which led him from a passion fo…
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