Best PCMA Podcasts (2025)

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Convene Talk: Why Airports and Airlines Deserve a Bigger Role in Business Events 24:24

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3d ago24:24

24:24

Airports aren’t just gateways—they can be game changers for event professionals. In this Convene Talk we explore how planners are underutilizing airports and airlines in the event experience. From welcome moments and in-airport meetings to lounge perks and missed group sales opportunities, the team shares practical ideas and examples that will have…

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Convene Article: How ASCRS Rebooted Its Awards Ceremony to Increase Audience Engagement 14:10

5d ago14:10

14:10

The American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery transformed its annual meeting awards program into something far less ceremonial and far more engaging, based on audience insights. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: How ASCRS Rebooted Its Awards Ceremony to Increase Audience Engagement: https://…

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Convene Article: When the Show Goes On: Planning Events After a Natural Disaster 14:24

12d ago14:24

14:24

The rise of extreme weather events means planners are more often going to face the difficult decision of whether to move forward with an event at an affected destination or not. Here’s how some organizers have navigated that dilemma. Written and read by Jennifer N. Dienst, senior editor at Convene. Read the Article: When the Show Goes On: Planning …

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The Evaluation Trap: How We’re Failing Teachers and What to Do Instead with Craig Randall 50:38

12d ago50:38

50:38

Send us a text We all talk about feedback—but what if the real key to teacher growth is the trust behind it? In this episode of the Crisis in Education podcast, Dr. Paulie sits down with Craig Randall, former principal, counselor, and author of Trust-Based Observations, to challenge the compliance-heavy approach to teacher evaluations. Craig makes …

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Convene Talk: Time-Smart, Not Time-Stressed: Productivity Habits That Actually Work for Event Professionals 31:50

17d ago31:50

31:50

Is your to-do list running your day? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team unpacks the top time-management strategies from expert Max Ohlenschlager—plus their own tried-and-true hacks. Learn how to reframe tasks, avoid burnout, and build focus through mindful planning, buffer zones, and yes—even breaking up with the Pomodoro method. Link…

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Convene Series: How to Negotiate with Confidence: Collaboration, Communication, and Executive Presence with Alex Carter and Anne Marie Nest 37:20

18d ago37:20

37:20

In the last Season 7 episode, we talk with two powerhouse guests — Alex Carter, Columbia Law professor and best-selling author of Ask for More, and Anne Marie Nest, expert in voice, speech, and executive presence. Together, they unpack how negotiation can be reframed as a collaborative problem-solving process — not a confrontation. Links: https://a…

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Convene Article: Meetings in Flux 38:57

19d ago38:57

38:57

Results from our recent pulse survey of event organizers reveal a lack of clarity about what sweeping U.S. policy changes may mean for events, what comes next, and how best to move forward. Here’s what some event industry professionals are seeing — and anticipating. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article:…

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Convene Talk: How to Cope With Cognitive Overload in Uncertain Times: Productivity and Mental Clarity for Event Pros 13:09

24d ago13:09

13:09

In this Convene Talk episode, we unpack how the “hidden tax” of cognitive ambiguity is eroding leadership clarity — and what to do about it. From time-blocking your stress to reframing internal narratives, the team explores practical, research-backed strategies to help meeting professionals stay focused, calm, and present — even amid global disrupt…

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The Morningside Effect: Doubling Student Growth through Behavior Science with Andrew Kieta 52:19

25d ago52:19

52:19

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paulie sits down once again with Andrew Kieta, Executive Director of Morningside Academy, to unpack what might just be one of education’s best-kept secrets. They dive into the practical magic behind Morningside’s model—one rooted in precision teaching, fluency-based instruction, and the science of human behavior.…

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Convene Series: The Truth About Company Culture: Communication, Values, and Generational Growth with Sherron Washington 30:16

25d ago30:16

30:16

In this Season 7 episode of the Convene Podcast, we are joined by Sherron Washington — a global speaker, author, marketing and communication strategist, and CEO of The P3 Solution — for a bold and insightful conversation on how organizations can foster meaningful communication across generations and identities. Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www…

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Convene Article: Building a Circular Economy in Events: How Two Major Meetings Reimagined Sustainability 14:36

26d ago14:36

14:36

Business events have long been designed with this one-off/single-use mentality. How can we adopt more of a reduce, reuse, recycle approach? Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: Building a Circular Economy in Events: How Two Major Meetings Reimagined Sustainability: https://www.pcma.org/circular-economy…

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Convene Interview: Why Latin America Could Lead the Sustainable Events Revolution 36:31

1M ago36:31

36:31

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, sustainability leader Thiago Araujo makes a compelling case for Latin America’s vital role in the global events industry’s journey to net zero. From carbon offset strategies to rethinking economic and social impact, discover practical steps event professionals can take—wherever they are. Follow Convene: Websi…

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Convene Series: How to Build a Career on Your Terms with Deanna Nwosu: Mentorship, Pivots, and Purpose-Driven Growth in Events 24:01

1M ago24:01

24:01

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we sit down with Deanna Nwosu, a 25-year industry veteran and internal events strategist at REI, to explore what it really takes to grow a meaningful, purpose-aligned career in the fast-changing world of events. From breaking into the industry to becoming a confident leader, Deanna shares candid insights on m…

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Convene Article: Using Emotional AI to Track Attendee Sentiment in Real Time 10:41

1M ago10:41

10:41

How technology tools are helping organizers wrap their arms around participants’ emotional responses to their events. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Using Emotional AI to Track Attendee Sentiment in Real Time: https://www.pcma.org/using-emotional-ai/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com…

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Convene Talk: How Tariffs, Visa Delays, and Travel Uncertainty Are Reshaping the Events Industry 35:08

1M ago35:08

35:08

In this Convene Talk episode, our editors unpack how new U.S. border policies, rising visa wait times, and shifting international perceptions are dampening event attendance and travel. Discover what planners are doing—and not doing—to address the growing uncertainty impacting global participation at major U.S. events. Links: · An Increasingly Bleak…

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Convene Series: Bridging the Generational Gap at Work with Anushka Polius: Building Trust, Embracing Change, and Leading with Authenticity 28:56

1M ago28:56

28:56

How do we lead with heart in a world of constant change and generational diversity? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Anushka Polius, Director, Marketing Operations at GES, joins us to explore how trust, empathy, and authentic communication can close the gap between younger professionals and seasoned leaders. Tune in for a conversation on lea…

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Convene Article: Designing an Intimate Conference for 10,000 12:38

1M ago12:38

12:38

This episode has been kindly sponsored by Visit Phoenix. Learn more at visitphoenix.com/meetings. How entrepreneur Imani Ellis — who will speak this afternoon in a fireside chat — has built a first-of-its kind community for Black creative professionals by focusing on connection. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene, with exc…

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Convene Talk: Does AI Boost Productivity or Kill Motivation? Exploring the Hidden Costs of Working with AI 29:04

2M ago29:04

29:04

Is AI making us better—or just busier? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we explore surprising research on how AI boosts productivity but drains motivation. From ethical use to emotional impact, the team shares insights for event professionals navigating AI in a rapidly changing landscape. Links: · Research: Gen AI Makes People More Productiv…

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Convene Series: How Choosing Yourself Can Lead to a Thriving Business: Lessons from DeShawn Wynn 30:18

2M ago30:18

30:18

What does it really mean to choose yourself—and build a business from it? In this candid episode of the Convene podcast, DeShawn Wynn shares her path to entrepreneurship, how she developed a "winning mindset," and why success requires internal clarity, external support, and the courage to pivot. Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/sh…

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Convene Article: Measuring Emotion 15:10

2M ago15:10

15:10

While meeting organizers understand the primary role that emotional engagement and experiential factors play in their events, they find those things difficult to measure. We’ve set out to explore how to define, design and how to quantify emotional engagement and make meaningful improvements as a result. Written and read by Jennifer N. Dienst, senio…

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Convene Talk: What’s New at edUcon 2025: Innovation, Inclusion, and Immersive Learning in Bourbon City 12:38

2M ago12:38

12:38

This episode has been kindly sponsored by Louisville Tourism. Learn more at GoToLouisville.com/meeting-planners/. In this episode of Convene Talk, we unpack what’s ahead at PCMA’s edUcon 2025 — from deeper learning tracks to inclusive programming and immersive local experiences. Held in Louisville, aka Bourbon City, this year’s event focuses on thr…

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Convene Series: Executive Presence, Career Pivots, and Leading with Intention: Insights from Bill Reed 54:01

2M ago54:01

54:01

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Bill Reed shares practical advice on career advancement, mindset, and the discipline behind leadership. Learn how to grow beyond your role, identify what truly motivates you, and prepare for your next move with purpose. Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https…

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Convene Article: How to Make Belonging the Centerpiece of Your Events 7:51

2M ago7:51

7:51

DEI expert Ritu Bhasin shares seven tips for creating authentic, inclusive, and emotionally resonant event experiences. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: How to Make Belonging the Centerpiece of Your Events: www.pcma.org/how-make-belonging-centerpiece-your-events/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://w…

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The 4-Day School Week with Dr. Don Haddad: Innovation or Oversight? 49:21

2M ago49:21

49:21

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paulie Gavoni sits down with veteran superintendent Dr. Don Haddad of St. Vrain Valley School District to explore one of the most hotly debated educational shifts in recent years—the 4-day school week. With over 17 years of experience leading one of Colorado’s largest districts, Dr. Haddad brings deep insight int…

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The Latest Developments and Sustainability Resources for Planners in Greater Palm Springs 20:43

2M ago20:43

20:43

On this episode of the Meetings Today podcast, digital content coordinator Logan Pratt sits down with Carolina Viazcan, vice president of sales for Visit Greater Palm Springs, and Laruen Bruggemans, director of sustainability and community engagement, to learn how the destination is both creating new developments while balancing its commitment to e…

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Anaheim Unveils a "Golden Decade" for Meetings 20:06

2M ago20:06

20:06

With $10 billion in infrastructure investment and new dining, retail and entertainment districts such as OCVIBE, Anaheim, California, has embarked on what it has dubbed the "Golden Decade." Meetings Today caught up with Ronnie Collins, senior vice president of sales for Visit Anaheim, to learn the details, and also about mega events coming to the d…

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Convene Talk: How Medical Meetings Adapted: Lessons from Ophthalmology Conferences in a Post-Virtual World 17:10

2M ago17:10

17:10

In this episode of Convene Talk, the team explores how medical associations like the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Retina Specialists adapted during COVID-19 and continue to evolve. From virtual education and subject-matter expert access to hybrid programming, cost-saving strategies, and the growing importance of cap…

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Convene Article: Expert Tips for Better Virtual Communication 6:25

2M ago6:25

6:25

Organizational behavior expert Andrew Brodsky on why it’s worth your time to think more deliberately about how you use technology to communicate. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Expert Tips for Better Virtual Communication: https://www.pcma.org/expert-tips-for-better-virtual-communication/ Follow Conv…

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Convene Talk: What TED’s Turbulent 2025 Says About the Future of Events, Immersion, and Uncertainty 15:34

2M ago15:34

15:34

In this episode of Convene Talk, the team explores how external disruptions — from global tariffs to political chaos — seep into even the most elite events. Using insights from TED 2025, they reflect on the increasing pressure planners face to create immersive experiences while attendees juggle external crises. Plus, they unpack how space design, f…

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Fixing the Pipeline: Tackling the Education Workforce Crisis with Nicola Soares 33:14

2M ago33:14

33:14

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paulie sits down with Nicola Soares, President of Kelly Education, to tackle one of the most urgent issues in education today: the staffing and workforce crisis. With over 20 years of experience spanning product development, policy reform, and leadership across major organizations like NBC Universal and McGraw-Hi…

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Convene Article: Rearchitecting a Trade Show 9:37

2M ago9:37

9:37

A new expo hall design used experiential zones to take attendees on an architectural journey. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: Rearchitecting a Trade Show: https://www.pcma.org/rearchitect-trade-show/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https://www.i…

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Convene Talk: How Safety, Politics, and Perception Are Reshaping Destination Selection for Events 22:18

2M ago22:18

22:18

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team unpacks a new research report from Destinations International and Future Partners that explores how perceptions around safety, politics, and social issues are increasingly influencing destination choices. Hear how planners and attendees are reacting to shifting societal pressures, weather risks, and …

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House Bill 163, Deceptive PBM Tactics, and Building Relationships to Get Legislation Passed 47:46

2M ago47:46

47:46

North Carolina’s House Bill 163 would require pharmacies to be reimbursed at NADAC (National Average Drug Acquisition Cost) plus a fair dispensing fee, which would protect NC pharmacies - ensuring they can stay in business and continue providing critical care to patients. As usual, PBMs are spreading misinformation designed to scare patients and la…

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How Phoenix Executes Large-Scale Sporting Events 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

Phoenix has earned the moniker "Championship Valley" because of its extensive experience in hosting big sporting events like the Super Bowl and basketball championships. Lorne Edwards, chief sales officer, Visit Phoenix and Eric George, special events administrator, City of Phoenix, discuss what goes into the execution of large-scale sporting event…

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Convene Article: Addressing ‘Prolifically Problematic’ Food Waste at Meetings 7:17

3M ago7:17

7:17

The most commonly wasted foods are bread, pastries, and fruit — a great place for planners to begin developing food-waste prevention practices. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Addressing ‘Prolifically Problematic’ Food Waste at Meetings: https://www.pcma.org/prolific-food-waste-at-meetings/ Follow Con…

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Convene Talk: Rethinking the Trade Show Experience: Data, Design, and Human Connection 23:37

3M ago23:37

23:37

Are trade shows still relevant in the digital age? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team explores how trade shows are evolving beyond transactional exchanges to deliver meaningful, data-informed, and emotionally engaging experiences. From AI-powered matchmaking to facial recognition technology and immersive booth design, learn how organi…

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Trauma-Informed or Trauma-Misguided? A Candid Talk with Best-Selling Author Philip Wire 1:08:45

3M ago1:08:45

1:08:45

Send us a text In this episode of The Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni sits down with Missouri middle school teacher and author Philip Wire to unpack a provocative and timely topic: Are schools getting trauma-informed education right—or missing the mark entirely? Inspired by Philip’s bold book, "Trauma-Informed Tragedy: How Sch…

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Convene Article: Unlocking the Event Housing Block Dilemma 10:21

3M ago10:21

10:21

This episode has been kindly sponsored by Louisville Tourism. Learn more at GoToLouisville.com/meeting-planners/. Over this past year, representatives from major hotel brands and housing services providers met for three PCMA roundtable conversations to discuss housing booking challenges — and potential solutions. Written and read by Michelle Russel…

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Convene Talk: Should Events Go on After a Natural Disaster? How Planners Can Responsibly Support Recovery 19:17

3M ago19:17

19:17

As climate-related disasters grow more frequent, event organizers face difficult decisions: Should you still host your event in an affected area? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we explore how planners can support recovery efforts—ethically and effectively—through respectful communication, timing, and community engagement. Links: · https://…

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Convene Article: The Secret to This Tech Conference’s Exponential Growth 5:09

3M ago5:09

5:09

CodeMash’s move to make the tech conference more accessible and affordable led to a family-friendly event that spawned the spin-off KidzMash just for attendees' children. Written and read by Jennifer N. Dienst, senior editor at Convene. Read the Article: The Secret to This Tech Conference’s Exponential Growth: https://www.pcma.org/secret-codemash-t…

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Convene Talk on How U.S. Policy Shifts Are Impacting Global Events and Scientific Conferences 25:23

3M ago25:23

25:23

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team discusses how recent U.S. policies and funding cuts are disrupting the business events industry. From international travel challenges to scientific censorship and declining attendance, hear what’s changing—and what it means for planners, speakers, and global collaboration. Links: · https://www.pcma.o…

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PBM Reform, Conflicts of Interest, & Anti-Monopoly After Lina Khan 43:13

3M ago43:13

43:13

What happens when the largest players in healthcare prioritize profit over patients? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the persistent monopolistic practices plaguing the industry. Join the PUTT cocktail crew and special guest Emma Freer, Health Policy Analyst at the American Economic Liberties Project, as they explore the groundbreaking inf…

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Virtual Solutions, Real Impact: ABA Support for Military Families in Education with Emil Majetich 41:16

3M ago41:16

41:16

Send us a text In this powerful episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie welcomes Emil Majetich, a doctoral candidate in early childhood special education, licensed behavior analyst, university instructor, and 25-year fire service veteran. Emil shares his remarkable journey from fire lieutenant and paramedic to behavior analyst, empha…

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Convene Article: Events Professionals Offer Advice on Meeting in Extreme Heat 12:48

3M ago12:48

12:48

As record-breaking temperatures reach unprecedented levels, event organizers — and their participants — will have to take extra precautions to keep everyone cool, and safe. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Events Professionals Offer Advice on Meeting in Extreme Heat: https://www.pcma.org/events-profess…

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Convene Interview: Rethinking Business with AI: Creativity, Governance, and Future-Ready Skills with Dr. Ayesha Khanna 28:17

3M ago28:17

28:17

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the global leader on the future of AI and business Dr. Ayesha Khanna shares how AI is redefining business strategy—from operational efficiency to imaginative co-creation. Discover how organizations can use AI to unlock innovation, manage risk, and empower their workforce—ethically and effectively. Follow Conv…

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Convene Article: Harnessing the Energy of ‘Unlike Minds’ 12:04

3M ago12:04

12:04

Energy Disruptors: UNITE is an immersive energy sector summit that aims to bring together diverse voices — along with an unexpected infusion of the arts — to spark change. Written and read by Casey Gale, former managing editor at Convene. Read the Article: Harnessing the Energy of ‘Unlike Minds’: https://www.pcma.org/energy-disruptors-unite-summit-…

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Convene Series: AI in the Public Sector: Balancing Innovation, Ethics & Data Security in Business Events 40:22

4M ago40:22

40:22

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Rory G. Archibald from VisitScotland explores the ethical considerations, data security challenges, and job evolution AI brings to the industry. Tu…

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Bringing Learners to Center Stage in Value-Based Care with ABA Toolbox's Leila Farshchian 45:12

4M ago45:12

45:12

Send us a text Join Dr. Paulie as he explores value-based care in education with Leila Farshchian MA, BCBA, leader of ABA Toolbox—an award-winning platform advancing science-driven, learner-centered interventions for individuals with autism and disabilities. The conversation explores how integrating behavior analytic principles with compassion and …

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Gaylord's Massive West Coast Expansion and More, With DOSM Russ Mitchell 19:29

4M ago19:29

19:29

Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center DOSM Russ Mitchell talks about the brand's massive new $1.3 billion property near San Diego, which will be the largest hotel on the West Coast. Located in Chula Vista, California, and set for a May 15, 2025 opening, the property will offer a whopping 1,600 rooms and more than 477,000 square feet of meeting…

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Convene Series: Beyond the AI Hype: How Businesses Can Leverage Machine Learning for Real Impact 29:18

4M ago29:18

29:18

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. AI is everywhere, but is it truly driving business transformation? In this episode, Augusto Salvatto explores the gap between AI hype and real-world impact, the importance of machine lear…