Best PCMA Convene Magazine Podcasts (2025)

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

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1d 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

2d 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

1d 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

8d 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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Convene Series: Why Fear Fuels DEI Backlash — and What Event Organizers Can Do About It: Conversation With Poornima Luthra 28:17

9d ago28:17

28:17

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

8d ago24:01

24:01

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

15d ago24:17

24:17

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

15d ago8:51

8:51

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

22d ago17:21

17:21

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

22d 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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Convene Talk: The Big Beautiful Bill: What the U.S. Policy Shift Means for the Events Industry 23:38

29d 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

1M 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

1M ago19:52

19:52

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

1M 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

1M 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

1M ago12:01

12:01

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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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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Convene Talk: Time-Smart, Not Time-Stressed: Productivity Habits That Actually Work for Event Professionals 31:50

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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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Convene Series: The Truth About Company Culture: Communication, Values, and Generational Growth with Sherron Washington 30:16

2M 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

2M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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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Convene Talk: How Medical Meetings Adapted: Lessons from Ophthalmology Conferences in a Post-Virtual World 17:10

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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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Convene Article: Rearchitecting a Trade Show 9:37

4M 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

4M 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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Convene Article: Addressing ‘Prolifically Problematic’ Food Waste at Meetings 7:17

4M 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

4M 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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Convene Article: Unlocking the Event Housing Block Dilemma 10:21

4M 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

4M 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

5M 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

5M 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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Convene Article: Events Professionals Offer Advice on Meeting in Extreme Heat 12:48

5M 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

5M 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…