Discover how breaking the rules, building meaningful connections, and relentless focus can fuel entrepreneurial success in the global event industry and beyond.

Simon Berger — Founder of IM2 Group, Exhibition Innovator, Event Maverick

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What does it really mean to be a disruptive entrepreneur, and how can you transcend mediocrity to build something remarkable? In this episode, event industry veteran Simon Berger sits down with Max to share his candid journey from washing dishes to driving Ferraris, launching global expos, and mentoring new business creators.

Simon discusses the bedrock values from his childhood that shaped his independence, his unconventional approach to entrepreneurship, and why relationships — not just transactions — are the heart of any long-lasting business. You’ll hear powerful stories from his earliest hustle days, the story behind launching and selling exhibitions across continents, and learn why both listening and storytelling are vital entrepreneurial skills. Simon also explores the ongoing evolution in how brands and businesses must build personalized value and the courage it takes to step off the beaten path.

From actionable goal-setting to the art of spotting underserved markets and cultivating genuine business partnerships, this episode delivers a masterclass for anyone seeking to think differently. Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned founder, you’ll walk away with fresh perspectives on creativity, resilience, failures, and what it means to truly succeed.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

• Simon traces his entrepreneurial roots from childhood lessons in independence and a refusal to conform. (04:11)
• Practical approaches to building and sustaining authentic business relationships — including "selling to the person, not only the brand." (24:55)
• The essential role of storytelling in business, and why listening makes you a better storyteller and leader. (21:23)
• How to spot market gaps and launch successful events by adapting proven ideas for new territories. (41:05)
• Candid lessons from failure, including navigating bankruptcy and the value of making mistakes on your own terms. (32:10)
• The evolving landscape of sales and marketing for a new generation of customers: from B2B, to B2C, to "B2Me." (17:57)
• Why cultivating focus and saying no are core to entrepreneurial discipline and avoiding burnout. (31:48)
• The powerful impact of goal-setting and celebrating milestones, illustrated with vivid personal anecdotes. (1:13:41)
• The significance of being a "maverick" and embracing controversy to spark innovation and stand out. (54:32)
• Using smart partnerships and equity to empower entrepreneurial thinkers inside your business. (1:00:34)

1. Build relationships that last: Genuine connections with partners, clients, and colleagues are your greatest asset. Prioritize reciprocity, authenticity, and retention over one-off wins.
2. Embrace mistakes as fuel: Learn from failures and see them as necessary steps on the entrepreneurial path. Make decisions bravely, and don't let fear of mistakes hold you back.
3. Stay relentlessly focused: Avoid spreading yourself too thin. Set clear goals, write them down, and say no to distractions so you can pour energy into what truly matters.

• Ways of Seeing by John Berger
• The Language of Leaders by Kevin Murray
• Pavegen (company founded by Lawrence Kemble-Cook)
• Millennial 2020 expo (historic reference)

“If you want to be a storyteller and a good one, then you’ve also got to be a good listener.” “Surround yourself with giants. Don’t surround yourself with people who are weak.” “Why follow the path you know? Get off the path, make your own trail and let someone follow your trail.” “Failure is the backbone of an entrepreneur.” “Be good to the people on the way up and you’ll be remembered on the way down… Just be kind.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.