Best PCMA Podcasts (2025)

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Convene Talk: SXSW 2026 Without a Convention Center: Neighborhood “Villages,” Constraints, and Smarter Brand Activations 21:41

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22h ago21:41

21:41

How do you reimagine a city-wide icon when its central venue is gone? In this Convene Talk, the team unpacks SXSW 2026 and its pivot to badge-specific neighborhoods across Austin. We dig into why constraints spark creativity, what “villages” mean for brand activations and attendee flow, how to balance strategy vs. serendipity, and whether asking at…

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Convene Series: How LA Tourism Champions DEI: Adam Burke on Empowering Small Businesses and Inclusive Growth 22:55

2d ago22:55

22:55

This season has been kindly sponsored by Visit Anaheim. Go to VisitAnaheim.org/meetings to learn more. What does it take to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion into the DNA of a destination? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Adam Burke, President & CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, shares how LA is leveraging its diversity to …

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Convene Article: What Planners Need to Know About Using AI in the Hiring Process 9:15

40m ago9:15

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Both employers and job candidates are using AI resources to streamline the hiring process — but sometimes this can backfire. Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, digital managing editor at Convene. Read the Article: What Planners Need to Know About Using AI in the Hiring Process: https://www.pcma.org/using-ai-in-hiring-process/ Follow Convene: Linked…

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Convene Talk: Why Bleisure (Done Right) Sparks Better Ideas and Better Events 18:23

8d ago18:23

18:23

Is packing every minute of a business trip actually killing creativity? In this Convene Talk, we unpack the “leisure boom,” why adding white space to work travel and conferences fuels breakthroughs, and how design tweaks—like serendipity paths and simple sticky-note walls—unlock engagement. We also sanity-check the headline stats, discuss ROI vs. r…

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Convene Series: From Compliance to Inclusion: Frank M. Wächter Explains the European Accessibility Act 17:02

9d ago17:02

17:02

This season has been kindly sponsored by Visit Anaheim. Go to VisitAnaheim.org/meetings to learn more. Accessibility isn’t just about ramps and elevators anymore — it starts long before attendees arrive onsite. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Frank M. Wächter breaks down what the European Accessibility Act (EAA) means for event professional…

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Convene Article: Can Work Be Fun? 9:21

7d ago9:21

9:21

Bree Groff’s book Today Was Fun explores how maximizing joy at work leads to a team culture that fosters intentionality, care, and courtesy. Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, digital managing editor at Convene. Read the Article: Can Work Be Fun?: https://www.pcma.org/can-work-be-fun/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma…

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Convene Talk: Fyre Festival 2 Fizzles: Lessons in Trust, Influencers, and Why Events Need Professionals 20:01

15d ago20:01

20:01

Remember Fyre Festival? It tried to make a comeback. In this Convene Talk, the team breaks down the short, doomed saga of “Fyre Festival 2”—from phantom venues to a surprise eBay fire-sale—and what it reveals about influencer hype, ethics, and the critical role of professional event planning. We contrast Fyre’s spin with Burning Man’s radical trans…

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Convene Series: How Radical Joy Shaped the WorldPride Human Rights Conference 40:27

16d ago40:27

40:27

This season has been kindly sponsored by Visit Anaheim. Go to VisitAnaheim.org/meetings to learn more. What does it take to design an event that is both unapologetically political and profoundly celebratory? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Natalie Thompson, Valerie Sumner, and Roberta Sumner share how they created a safe, inclusive, and joy…

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Convene Article: CSR Professionals Survey the Political Landscape for DEI 3:45

14d ago3:45

3:45

A recent survey reveals how corporate citizenship professionals are adjusting to DEI backlash while remaining true to their company’s commitment to its values. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: CSR Professionals Survey the Political Landscape for DEI: https://www.pcma.org/csr-professionals-weigh-in-…

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Should Teachers Be Ashamed? Dr. Gavoni and Dr. Cubbin Square Off 1:02:16

16d ago1:02:16

1:02:16

Send us a text In this episode of The Heart & Science of Leadership Podcast, Dr. Paulie Gavoni sits down with veteran educator Dr. Michael L. Cubbin for a spirited debate on classroom leadership. The conversation was sparked by Cubbin’s critique of Paulie’s article on establishing expectations during the first week of school, and by his own provoca…

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Convene Talk: When Weird Works (and When It Doesn’t): Lessons From the World’s Wildest Science Conference 18:36

22d ago18:36

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What happens when researchers trade lecture halls for campgrounds, five-minute rhymed papers, and walk-up songs? In this Convene Talk, the editorial team unpacks a recent Nature article on the “Woodstock of Biology” — a freewheeling festival near Prague that pushes the boundaries of what a scientific conference can be. From playful formats and outd…

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Building Coalitions, Tech Bros in Pharmacy, & the Importance of Taking Action 50:53

22d ago50:53

50:53

Join Lord Dr Jeremy and the PUTT Cocktail Crew with special guest Nebraska pharmacist and pharmacy owner Dave Randolph, RPh, as they dive into the critical issues shaping the future of pharmacy and healthcare. From the power of building coalitions for effective state-level advocacy, to the importance of subject matter education for legislators, and…

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Convene Series: How Events Can Foster Belonging in Divided Times: A Conversation with Cameron Curtis 29:20

23d ago29:20

29:20

This season has been kindly sponsored by Visit Anaheim. Go to VisitAnaheim.org/meetings to learn more. In this powerful episode, Cameron Curtis, Executive Director of the LGBT Meeting Professionals Association, joins the Convene Podcast to unpack the tangible ways that inclusion, safety, and allyship show up in real-world event planning. From confr…

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Convene Article: ‘We’re Not Changing What We Do’: Standing Strong Amidst DEI Backlash 9:18

24d ago9:18

9:18

How DEI is embedded in Minneapolis’ DNA and blueprint for future growth and why other destinations — and the events ecosystem — need to better convey the business case for diversity. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: ‘We’re Not Changing What We Do’: Standing Strong Amidst DEI Backlash: https://www.pcma.…

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Convene Talk: Inside Create & Cultivate: How Women-Only Business Festivals Are Reinventing Networking and Events 18:13

29d ago18:13

18:13

The women-focused festival Create & Cultivate has grown into one of the largest business events of its kind, blending celebrity keynotes, AI-powered networking, and brand activations that wow attendees and sponsors alike. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team unpacks what makes the event so successful, the debates around women-only space…

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Convene Series: Designing for Belonging with Devon Montgomery Pasha: How Empathy, Data, and Values Drive Better Events 38:48

30d ago38:48

38:48

This season has been kindly sponsored by Visit Anaheim. Go to VisitAnaheim.org/meetings to learn more. In this episode, event strategist and inclusion expert Devon Montgomery Pasha shares why designing for belonging goes far beyond accessibility checklists. She unpacks how empathy-based planning, value-driven data, and asking the right questions—no…

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Convene Article: How REI Co-Op’s Events Are Inclusive in Nature 8:10

30d ago8:10

8:10

While some companies are backing off DEI, the outdoor retailer makes inclusivity a through line at its internal events. Written and read by Jennifer N. Dienst, senior editor at Convene. Read the Article: How REI Co-Op’s Events Are Inclusive in Nature: https://www.pcma.org/rei-coop-events-are-inclusive-in-nature/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://ww…

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Convene Talk: From Pledges to Action: What Two Sustainability Reports Reveal About the Future of Events 27:42

1M ago27:42

27:42

In this Convene Talk, the editorial team unpacks the Honeycomb Strategies State of the Sustainable Events Industry: Summer 2025 Trends & Risks Report and the Convene 4 Climate inaugural report, comparing their insights on KPIs, mentorship, supply chain ethics, and the shift toward measuring positive impact. From innovative tools like the Sustainabl…

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Turning Around a Failing School District with Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency 49:34

1M ago49:34

49:34

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paul “Paulie” Gavoni sits down with Dr. Rick Surrency, Superintendent of Putnam County Schools in Florida, to explore how one of the lowest-performing districts in the state transformed into a model of success. When Dr. Surrency took office in 2016, Putnam County Schools faced daunting challenges: a graduation ra…

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Convene Series: Why Fear Fuels DEI Backlash — and What Event Organizers Can Do About It: Conversation With Poornima Luthra 28:17

1M ago28:17

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This season has been kindly sponsored by Visit Anaheim. Go to VisitAnaheim.org/meetings to learn more. What’s really driving the backlash against DEI — and what can we do about it? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Poornima Luthra, a globally recognized educator, speaker, and author, whose work unpacks the emotional root of resistance to inclusi…

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Convene Article: DEI Done Differently 24:01

1M ago24:01

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Diversity, equity, and inclusion remain central to the work of events professionals. You just need to read between the lines of session titles and marketing campaigns. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: DEI Done Differently: https://www.pcma.org/dei-done-differently/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https:/…

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Convene Talk: Standing Their Ground - How the Events Industry Is Navigating the DEI Backlash 24:17

1M ago24:17

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When a recent U.S. executive order labeled diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts “immoral and illegal,” some organizations quietly swapped out the language — while others doubled down on their commitments. In this behind-the-scenes conversation, the Convene editorial team discusses our August cover story on how the events industry is respo…

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Convene Article: Crossing Borders to Address Attendee Safety Concerns 8:51

1M ago8:51

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Two associations have moved their conferences from the U.S. to Canada due to rising sociopolitical tensions — and despite financial consequences. Here is how they arrived at those decisions. Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, managing digital editor at Convene. Read the Article: Crossing Borders to Address Attendee Safety Concerns: https://www.pcma…

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Convene Talk: Did the Pandemic Age Our Brains? What It Means for Events, Well-Being, and Connection 17:21

2M ago17:21

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A new study reveals that our brains may have aged nearly six months during the pandemic—regardless of whether we had COVID-19. In this Convene Talk episode, the team explores what that means for our industry, how meetings support brain health, and why live experiences are more essential than ever. Links: · Pandemic aged our brains – even those who …

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Legislative Recaps, PBM Retaliation, & the Community Importance of Independent Pharmacy 49:15

2M ago49:15

49:15

Welcome Back to PBM on the Rocks! Join Lord Dr. Jeremy and the PUTT Cocktail crew with special guests John Farina (AHF) & Kris Rhea (Pharmacy Marketplace) as they unpack the summer's most significant state and federal legislative updates, explore the CVS Omnicare lawsuit verdict, and discuss its ripple effects on independent pharmacies including re…

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Convene Article: This Medical Meeting Builds Wellness Into the Program 9:55

2M ago9:55

9:55

How a conference for lifestyle medicine practitioners takes a page from its own prescription pad. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: This Medical Meeting Builds Wellness Into the Program: https://www.pcma.org/medical-meeting-build-wellness-program/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/s…

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The Feedback Loop: How Student Surveys Shape Better Classrooms with Tana Stanley 36:15

2M ago36:15

36:15

Send us a text In this episode of The Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni sits down with three-time District Teacher of the Year finalist, Tana Stanley, to explore a critical and often overlooked element of classroom success—student voice. They dig into how giving students opportunities to provide feedback through structured surve…

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Convene Talk: The Big Beautiful Bill: What the U.S. Policy Shift Means for the Events Industry 23:38

2M ago23:38

23:38

In this episode of the Convene podcast, the editorial team breaks down the bill’s potential impact on the U.S. events industry — from wins like expanded Pell Grant access and airport modernization, to major concerns over Brand USA’s 80% funding cut. Tune in as we unpack the ripple effects on international attendance, workforce development, global c…

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Convene Article: Will This Be the Greenest Convention Center on the Planet? 9:34

2M ago9:34

9:34

The Austin Convention Center has set its sights on becoming the first zero-carbon convention center certified by the International Living Future Institute. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Will This Be the Greenest Convention Center on the Planet?: https://www.pcma.org/greenest-convention-center-2/ Fol…

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Convene Talk: BookCon’s Comeback and the Rise of Offline Book Communities 19:52

2M ago19:52

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In this episode, the Convene team explores why the beloved book convention is making a comeback, what it says about shifting cultural habits, and how in-person literary gatherings are reemerging as powerful community hubs. Plus, ideas for how event organizers can take inspiration from this trend to better engage younger audiences. Links: · BookCon …

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Convene Article: Taking Library Services on the Road 5:42

2M ago5:42

5:42

At the 2024 Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services (ABOS) Conference, library professionals showcased innovative ways they bring books, resources, and support to communities often left behind — from Alzheimer’s caregivers to incarcerated youth. But funding and recognition remain key challenges. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor …

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Convene Talk: How Extreme Weather Is Disrupting Events — And What Planners Can Do About It 16:35

2M ago16:35

16:35

In this episode, the Convene team explores new research on the rising number of weather-related disruptions — from storms and heatwaves to wildfires — and the mounting financial and operational risks for event organizers. The conversation offers insights into how planners can strengthen resilience, advocate for data-informed decisions, and turn cha…

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Convene Article: A New Event Embraces Neurodivergence 12:01

2M ago12:01

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The launch of a new event, designed to celebrate and support those who identify as having brains that are wired a little differently, provides insights for designing neurodivergent-friendly meetings. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: A New Event Embraces Neurodivergence: https://www.pcma.org/neurodiverg…

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From Classroom to Career: Using PBIS to Support Adults with Disabilities with Dr. Keith Storey 33:04

2M ago33:04

33:04

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Paulie sits down with Dr. Keith Storey—Professor Emeritus, BCBA-D, and lifelong educator—to explore how PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) isn’t just for schools. They break down how the same strategies that support students in classrooms can be used to empower people with dis…

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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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…