Event Experience

Епизоди

• SentinelOne's Approach to Event Networking, Budget, and AI 26.06.2026 28мин

  Only 15% of event organizers say networking is effective in 2026, down from nearly 50% the year prior, according to Bizzabo's 2026 Benchmarks Report. Bethany Murphy, Senior Director of Global Strategic Events at SentinelOne, returns to Event Experience to explain why — and what to do about it. With 20+ years in the tech sector, Bethany covers how to design networking that actually works, why high-performing teams treat their events calendar as a portfolio, where AI creates real operational value, and how to manage budget ROI when show services costs are rising 10 to 15% year over year. For transcripts, quotes, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/sentinelone-event-networking-budget-roi-ai
• Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment on Building a Multi-Venue Ecosystem 15.06.2026 32мин

  Sean Saadeh, Chief Programming Officer at Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, shares how he transformed the Prudential Center from 22 concerts a year to 65-plus, and what it takes to build a multi-venue entertainment strategy that actually scales. You'll hear how Sean repositioned Prudential Center as a New Jersey destination rather than a New York competitor, why programming diversification tied to real market demographics is the foundation of sustainable growth, and how HBSE's growing portfolio of venues (from a 45,000-seat stadium to a 4,000-seat theater) functions as an interconnected ecosystem rather than a collection of separate businesses.  In this episode: Repositioning a venue in a saturated market (the New York DMA) How Latin music, K-pop, country, and comedy drove 3x concert growth Building agent and promoter relationships that compound across venues Northwest Stadium's record-breaking summer series: +20% attendance, +12% ticket sales Why meaningful venue transformation takes a minimum of four years  Creating an artist development pathway through tiered venue capacity Whether you work in venue management, event programming, or live entertainment strategy, this conversation offers a practical framework grounded in nearly 30 years of experience.  For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/sean-saadeh-hbse-multi-venue-entertainment-strategy   Enjoyed this content? Subscribe to our newsletter and get insights like these delivered straight to your inbox.
• Creating Sensory-Friendly Event Spaces with Calm Nest Collective 20.04.2026 27мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore speaks with Nika Brunet, founder of Calm Nest Collective, about designing sensory-friendly, inclusive event spaces. Nika shares how her background in social work and IT led her to address the lack of wellbeing and neurodiversity support in the events industry. She explains how sensory rooms and quiet spaces help attendees and event professionals regulate, recharge, and stay engaged. The conversation also covers practical ways event organizers can incorporate inclusive design; from creating calm environments to offering thoughtful alternatives like non-alcoholic options. Nika emphasizes the importance of listening to attendee needs, collaborating with communities, and starting small. By prioritizing wellbeing and accessibility, event professionals can improve engagement, retention, and the overall event experience. What you'll learn Why sensory-friendly event spaces support both attendees and event professionals How quiet rooms and refuge spaces improve engagement and wellbeing Practical ways to design inclusive events that support neurodiversity Why listening to your audience leads to more effective event experiences For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/calm-nest-collective-sensory-friendly-events  
• How Brella Is Shaping Virtual 2.0 Events 06.04.2026 41мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Mark Mallchok, event experience strategist and co-founder of Brella. With over 30 years in the industry, Mark shares how events have evolved from traditional in-person formats to what he calls the "Virtual 2.0" era, where engagement, production quality, and accessibility take center stage. He challenges common assumptions, including the belief that in-person events are always more effective and that virtual events inevitably lead to Zoom fatigue. Instead, Mark explains how virtual experiences have expanded access, enabling participation across geographies and budgets in ways that weren't previously possible. The conversation explores how event planners can create more compelling digital experiences by prioritizing audience engagement over content volume. Mark encourages planners to think like broadcasters, focusing on storytelling, pacing, and production value, while also drawing inspiration from creators outside the events industry. He also addresses the role of AI in event production, noting that while technology can enhance execution, human connection and storytelling remain at the core of memorable experiences. This episode is packed with practical insights for planners looking to adapt, experiment, and elevate their virtual events in a rapidly changing landscape. What you'll learn:  Why virtual events can be more inclusive and scalable than in-person experiences How to design engaging virtual sessions that avoid fatigue and hold attention Why treating virtual events like broadcast productions leads to better results For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: https://www.bizzabo.com/brella-virtual-event-strategy
• Building Event Success Beyond Tech with Smart Event Academy 23.03.2026 39мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Jen Santos, Founder of Smart Event Academy, to unpack what truly drives successful events beyond just technology. Drawing on her background in IT consulting and event tech, Jen explains why operational readiness is the foundation of every high-performing event. From detailed planning and documentation to pre- and post-event analysis, she shares how structured processes create the stability teams need to stay agile onsite. The conversation also highlights the importance of building a collaborative culture across teams and vendors. Jen emphasizes that alignment, open communication, and shared goals are what prevent silos and keep events running smoothly, especially when challenges arise. Importantly, Jen reframes how event professionals should think about ROI. Rather than focusing solely on financial outcomes, she encourages a broader view that includes time, energy, and attendee experience, ensuring every investment contributes to meaningful impact. She also challenges common misconceptions about event technology, noting that most issues stem from people and processes, not the tools themselves. By adopting a mindset of curiosity and leveraging frameworks like Smart Event 360, event professionals can continuously improve and elevate their approach. This episode is packed with practical strategies to help you strengthen operations, foster collaboration, and measure success in more meaningful ways. For transcriptions, mentions, and more, visit:  www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-readiness-smart-event-academy
• How On Sale Group Markets Events in the Attention Economy 09.03.2026 27мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore speaks with Dawn Farrow, founder of On Sale Group, about the realities of marketing live experiences in today's attention economy. Dawn shares her unconventional path from performer to agency founder and the lessons she learned building a marketing agency dedicated to live events. The conversation explores what makes event marketing uniquely challenging, convincing audiences to spend time and money on experiences they don't technically "need." Rachel and Dawn also discuss how marketers are navigating major shifts in advertising, ticketing legislation, and emerging technologies like AI. In today's landscape, event marketers must go far beyond creative execution; they analyze data, adapt quickly to uncertainty, and often forecast trends to keep campaigns effective. Dawn also highlights the importance of community within the event marketing profession. She encourages marketers to build strong peer networks through industry groups and in-person events. She also shares how her WhatsApp community, newsletter, and the Global Institute of Experience Marketing help support professionals working in the fast-evolving experience economy. What you'll learn Why marketing live experiences is uniquely difficult in the attention economy, and why audiences must be convinced to buy something they don't strictly need. How event marketers adapt to constant changes in advertising technology, algorithms, and consumer behavior while managing limited budgets. Why community, peer learning, and in-person networking are essential for growth in the event marketing industry. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/on-sale-group-marketing-events-attention-economy  
• How Devex Uses Events to Shape Brand Reputation and Drive Change 23.02.2026 28мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Margaret Richardson, Chief of Staff and Senior Director of External Relations at Devex, to explore how events can shape brand reputation and drive meaningful change. Margaret shares how Devex bridges journalism, business, and global development through strategic partnerships and thoughtfully designed events. She explains why events should be treated as relationship infrastructure, not just marketing moments, especially during times of uncertainty and rapid change. The conversation dives into the power of intentional storytelling, authentic audience engagement, and experience-led reputation management. Margaret also challenges event professionals to "think like editors," designing programs with layered narratives, multiple audience perspectives, and formats built for today's shorter attention spans. From shortening panels to rethinking how success is measured, this episode offers a practical framework for creating events that spark real conversations (both in-person and online) and strengthen brand trust. What you'll learn How to use events as a strategic tool for brand reputation management Why event planners should think like editors when designing experiences How to create layered storytelling that resonates across audiences Why shorter, more dynamic sessions drive deeper engagement How to measure event success beyond attendance and social impressions For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/devex-events-brand-reputation  
• Mastering the Art of Emceeing with 360 Degree Emcee 09.02.2026 36мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Sara Deacon, experienced emcee and CEO of 360 Degree Emcee, to explore the often-misunderstood role of an emcee in delivering standout event experiences. Sara shares her unconventional journey from martial arts coaching to event facilitation, revealing how skills like presence, adaptability, and connection translate directly to the stage. She explains why emceeing is fundamentally different from keynote speaking or panel moderation, and why reading the room is one of the most critical (and undervalued) skills in live events. The conversation goes beyond scripts and stage cues, diving into the emcee's full-circle role: collaborating with planners, managing audience energy, supporting speakers, and adapting in real time when things don't go as planned. Sara also offers practical guidance for event planners on how to hire and work effectively with emcees, outlining the tangible value they bring in boosting engagement, reinforcing event goals, and even increasing event ROI. Through real-world examples, Sara illustrates how authentic connection and in-the-moment decision-making can transform an event from good to unforgettable. The episode wraps with actionable advice for planners to prioritize audience connection and invest in skilled emcees who can elevate the entire event experience. What you'll learn Why a professional event emcee plays a critical role in shaping the attendee experience by reading the room, building connection, and managing energy throughout the event How hiring a skilled emcee can increase audience engagement, support event goals, and even improve fundraising and ROI Why authentic connection matters more than scripts, and how adaptable, collaborative emcees help create meaningful, memorable events for both organizers and attendees For transcripts, mentions and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/mastering-the-art-of-emceeing
• From Iris Photography to AI Superheroes: How Interactive Dallas Is Transforming Event Activations 26.01.2026 36мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Dennis Walters, Founder and CEO of Interactive Dallas, to explore how AI is reshaping live event activations. Dennis shares the company's evolution from a single digital graffiti wall to a full suite of interactive experiences. He explains how listening to client needs and embracing emerging tech, like AI-driven photography and real-time personalization, has kept Interactive Dallas on the cutting edge of experiential marketing. Listeners will hear how AI tools can streamline event workflows, boost creativity, and personalize attendee experiences. Dennis also offers real-world insights into execution challenges, the future of human-AI collaboration, and why thoughtful innovation is key to sustainable event success. What you'll learn: How AI enables real-time, creative event activations like instant photo edits and custom experiences Why listening to client needs leads to better, on-brand experiential solutions Tips for using AI tools, like ChatGPT, for planning, content creation, and improving event engagement For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-event-activations-interactive-dallas 
• Merch That Matters: How Indigo Promotions Helps Events Create Swag People Actually Keep 12.01.2026 32мин

  In this episode of Event Experience, host Rachel Moore sits down with Ethan Dowie, founder and CEO of Indigo Promotions, to unpack what makes event merchandise truly memorable. From his roots in nonprofit event planning to building a go-to merch agency for top brands, Ethan shares how swag can evolve from a throwaway freebie into a strategic engagement tool. You'll hear how Ethan helps clients shift from transactional vendor relationships to creative, consultative partnerships. He explains why swag should be treated as the "icing on the cake"—not the afterthought—and how reverse-engineering your merch strategy around specific goals (like social sharing or post-event brand recall) leads to more effective, high-impact giveaways. Whether it's designing diamond-studded charms for VIPs or using print-on-demand to reduce waste and increase personalization, Ethan offers insights into what's next for event swag: quality over quantity, tech-forward fulfillment, and audience-first thinking. Here's what you'll hear about in this conversation: Merch is the icing, not the cake. It should enhance the event, not carry it, and align with your event's core goals. Start with the outcome. Reverse-engineer your merch strategy based on what action or feeling you want from attendees. Know your audience. The best merch isn't what you think is cool, it's what resonates with your specific crowd. Print-on-demand is on the rise. It reduces waste, lowers risk, and allows for more personalization and last-minute ordering. Unique merch makes a statement. From limited-edition VIP items to wearable conversation starters, personalization and quality matter more than ever. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-merchandise-indigo-promotions
• How Event Pros Can Use AI to Plan Smarter and Work Better with Glean 22.12.2025 31мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes back Chris Duke, Head of Brand Experiences at Glean, for a conversation on how AI is reshaping the events industry. Drawing on his experience leading global activations, Chris explains how event professionals can adopt an AI-first mindset to boost productivity, enhance workflows, and unlock new creative possibilities without losing the human touch. The discussion covers actionable strategies for integrating AI into daily event planning tasks, overcoming skepticism, and building team-wide confidence in using these tools. Chris dives into how context-rich prompts yield better results, the rise of image and video generation, and the importance of cross-functional collaboration when working with AI. Listeners will walk away with practical ideas for experimenting with technology and growing their impact in an increasingly AI-powered industry. What you'll learn: How AI tools can elevate strategy, productivity, and creativity in event planning, without replacing human input. What it takes to build an AI-first culture through experimentation, support, and team learning. Why structured prompts and clear context lead to better AI outcomes, from messaging to event design. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-event-planning-tools-glean  
• AI for Event Pros: Boosting Creativity and Efficiency with Glean's Chris Duke 08.12.2025 47мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore is joined by Chris Duke, Head of Brand Experiences at Glean, for an AI-powered masterclass designed specifically for event professionals. Based on a popular webinar, this conversation dives into practical ways AI can transform the event planning process, from writing campaign briefs and automating reports to visualizing booth designs and analyzing post-event feedback. Chris shares real-world workflows using tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gamma, demonstrating how event marketers can streamline tasks, generate professional assets from simple inputs, and scale their impact. Learn how to build AI agents, prompt effectively, and safeguard sensitive data, all while embracing AI as a creative and strategic partner. What you'll learn: How to automate campaign briefs, session titles, booth mockups, and more using AI Why prompt clarity and data privacy matter in enterprise settings Real examples of using AI for event analytics, reporting, and visual storytelling For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-for-event-professionals-glean  
• How Authentic Hospitality Creates Awe for Gen Z Event Guests 24.11.2025 37мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, Quinn Burnell, a seasoned hospitality and entertainment leader with experience in cruise lines and luxury events, dives into the power of emotional intelligence and authenticity in creating memorable guest experiences. He unpacks what today's attendees, especially Gen Z, truly value: feeling safe, seen, and emotionally connected. Quinn shares how spontaneous moments of awe and genuine care can elevate an event beyond logistics, and why leaders must first care for their teams to deliver standout service. Drawing from global hospitality practices, he urges planners to design events that feel personal and culturally attuned, not just trendy. What you'll learn: Why authentic hospitality is about emotional connection, not just service How team wellbeing directly impacts guest experiences Practical tips for designing emotionally resonant event spaces For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: http://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/authentic-hospitality-gen-z-quinn-burnell  Enjoyed this content? Subscribe to Bizzabo's newsletter and get insights like these delivered straight to your inbox.
• How Codarity Helps Event Pros Escape Feast-or-Famine Revenue 17.11.2025 39мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Daniel Charles, founder of Codarity, a performance marketing agency tailored for the events industry. Daniel shares how he transitioned from music A&R and event production into helping event businesses escape the feast-or-famine revenue trap. He breaks down the Evergreen Event Profit System, a framework that helps creative professionals generate consistent income year-round. From defining ideal client personas to implementing smart automation and lead-nurturing systems, Daniel reveals how event planners can build a sustainable pipeline without sacrificing their creative edge. Rachel and Daniel explore common mistakes like relying too heavily on referrals, neglecting analytics, and vague customer targeting. Instead, Daniel champions a data-informed, content-driven approach that blends creativity with scalability, using automation and AI to attract high-quality leads and convert them more reliably. What you'll learn: Why seasonal referrals aren't enough, and what to do instead How automation and AI can help you scale authentic, effective marketing The importance of dialing in your ideal client persona for long-term growth For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/codarity-predictable-event-revenue  
• How Wealth.com Uses Micro Events and AI to Drive Deeper Engagement 10.11.2025 30мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Dan Bolton, Head of Marketing at Wealth.com, to explore how micro events are reshaping the event marketing landscape. Dan shares why these smaller, more intimate gatherings deliver stronger relationships, higher engagement, and measurable results, serving as powerful complements to large-scale conferences. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the "why" behind each event, tailoring experiences to audience needs, and tapping into local expertise. The conversation also highlights the post-event follow-up process as a key to building lasting, trust-based connections, shifting the focus from transactional to relational event design. Dan dives into how Wealth.com integrates AI across the event lifecycle, from analyzing attendee data and personalizing content to streamlining post-event communication. He explains how AI enhances efficiency while freeing up teams to focus on creativity and connection, echoing a company-wide push to embed AI into everyday workflows. Packed with insights for both new and seasoned planners, this episode offers a practical, forward-looking take on how AI, hospitality, and thoughtful design can transform micro events into a marketer's secret weapon. What you'll learn: Why micro events foster deeper engagement and enhance large event strategies. How to plan micro events by starting with purpose, not logistics. Ways AI can streamline attendee analysis, follow-up, and feedback, freeing time for relational work. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/micro-events-ai-wealthcom
• Scaling Micro Event Strategies with AI 27.10.2025 38мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore explores how micro events, paired with AI, are transforming the way event professionals drive engagement and ROI. Guests Amanda-Lynn Porta and Dan Bolton dive deep into the strategic benefits of small-format experiences, from higher returns and richer personalization to stronger community connections. You'll learn how AI tools simplify planning, automate manual tasks, and unlock scalable personalization. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of thoughtful guest selection, cross-functional alignment between sales and marketing, and obsessing over event details for maximum impact. Key themes include the shift from large conferences to intimate micro events, the power of local, consistent activations, and how to iterate over time for long-term success. Amanda-Lynn and Dan share actionable advice on using platforms like Bizzabo to design repeatable, personalized experiences, and why micro events may be the most powerful tool in your event marketing toolkit. What you'll learn Why micro events often outperform large conferences on ROI, engagement, and community. How AI helps streamline event planning and deliver tailored attendee experiences. Tips for selecting the right audience, aligning teams, and scaling programs efficiently. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit:  www.bizzabo.com/podcast/scaling-micro-event-strategies-ai
• Building Community Through Intimate Events with Gather & Grow Experiences 20.10.2025 30мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes back Hugh Forrest, longtime leader of South by Southwest, to explore his latest venture: Gather & Grow Experiences. Drawing on over 35 years in the events industry, Hugh shares how he's helping organizations design smaller, experience-driven gatherings that spark connection and elevate civil discourse. They dive into the shift from massive events to more intentional, human-focused experiences, especially in Austin's changing event landscape. Hugh also shares his work consulting for events that empower underrepresented communities and his approach to building impactful international programs. Listeners will take away valuable insights on why face-to-face interaction still matters and how thoughtful planning leads to more meaningful event outcomes. What You'll Learn: Why face-to-face interactions foster a deeper community than digital platforms How intimate events can create more value than large-scale productions The importance of long-term planning and iterative improvement in event design For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/gather-grow-experiences-intimate-events  
• How Two Rival Event Planners Turned into Co‑Hosts of the Better Event Podcast 13.10.2025 37мин

  In this episode of Event Experience, host Rachel Moore sits down with Logan Clements and Mary Davidson, leaders behind the Better Events Podcast and seasoned event professionals. Once competitors, they now collaborate to create content, share strategies, and support one another, offering a fresh perspective on how community can outshine competition. They dive into how the events industry is evolving in 2025: shorter lead times, ever-higher attendee expectations, and a growing demand for wellness, accessibility, and sustainable experiences. Together, Logan and Mary discuss how they built a partnership, their approaches to content creation, and even share their favorite event footwear. Throughout the conversation, they stress the importance of reconnecting with your "why," collecting robust post-event feedback, and iterating on lessons learned, so your events stay relevant and impactful as the industry moves toward 2026. What you'll hear about in this episode: How collaboration with other event pros can accelerate growth Meeting rising attendee expectations around wellness, accessibility, and sustainability Using post-event feedback and documentation to evolve your event strategy For the transcript, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-planning-collaboration-better-events
• Mastering Experiential Events, Team Wellness, and ROI Strategy with Cognition 29.09.2025 39мин

  In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore is joined by Gianna Gaudini, Fractional Head of Events at Cognition, to explore how modern event planning is evolving—and why emotional connection is now at the core of successful experiences. Drawing on her 22+ years in the industry, Gianna unpacks the shift from traditional, tactical events to purpose-driven, human-centric experiences. She shares actionable insights on designing events that spark connection, support team well-being, and deliver measurable business impact. From embracing multisensory design and spontaneity to aligning ROI with strategic goals, Gianna offers a blueprint for building events that resonate long after they end. You'll also hear her candid thoughts on leadership, team culture, and why psychological safety is the foundation of sustainable success in the high-pressure events world. In this episode, you'll learn: Why intentional event design and multisensory experiences drive deeper audience engagement How leadership can model wellness and build psychological safety in high-stress teams How to define, track, and optimize ROI that aligns with business outcomes For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit our website: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/experiential-event-planning-cognition
• Creating Transformative Event Experiences and Leveraging AI with ISG 08.09.2025 35мин

  In this episode of Event Experience, host Rachel Moore chats with Nicole Nichols, a veteran event and meeting planner at ISG with over 20 years of industry experience. Nicole shares how today's most effective events are intentionally designed to be transformative, not just transactional. She emphasizes the importance of understanding attendee needs, gathering real-time feedback, and crafting meaningful experiences that extend beyond the event itself. Nicole also explores how AI can be a powerful amplifier, helping planners analyze data and personalize journeys, while reinforcing the human connection that defines successful events.  Her advice for fellow professionals? Stay curious, keep leveling up, and embrace continuous learning to prove the lasting impact of events. Key Highlights: Why event planners must shift from content delivery to experience design How to use AI to enhance, not replace, human connection at events The role of micro communities and intentional touchpoints in attendee journeys Real-world tips for continuous improvement and justifying the ROI of events For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/transformative-event-design-isg