Better Events

The Questions to Ask Before Saying Yes to an Event 01.07.2026 44Min.

This week, Logan shares one of the most important skills she's developed as an event professional: knowing what to ask before saying yes to a project. She shares why she became more intentional about evaluating opportunities, what she needed to learn about scope, budget clarity, and client fit before she could confidently take on new work, and how she uses soft holds as a tool that benefits both her and her clients. If you've ever said yes to something and immediately regretted it, this episode is for you.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopLearn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestLogan's Travel Printer - https://amzn.to/4w5i2DpTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

Grief, Gatherings, and Connection with Dana Pake 24.06.2026 43Min.

In this episode, Logan sits down with Dana Pake, founder of Lalago Experiences and death doula in training, a personal conversation about grief and it's space at events. Dana shares what three decades of lived experience with grief has taught her about connection, why grief shows up in rooms full of people more than we realize, and what most event professionals miss when it does. Logan also opens up about her own experience with loss while running her business, making this an episode that goes far beyond event planning and into what it really means to create authentic connection in the room.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with Dana Pake:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danapake/Francis Weller, Wild Edge of Sorrow and In the Absence of the OrdinaryPema Chondren, How We Live is How We Die (explaining concept of Bardo)Laura Lynn Jackson, Signs and GuidedLearn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

You Asked, We Answered: Event Bibles, AV Tips, Freelance Advice & More 17.06.2026 44Min.

In this episode, Logan and guest co-host Vanessa Loney are back with another listener mailbag, tackling your questions across every corner of the events world. From what an event bible actually looks like to the best questions to ask your AV tech, F&B creativity, and how to celebrate your team without a monetary bonus, they cover it all. They also dig into the business side for freelancers, from raising your rates and marketing yourself to managing contractor friendships and getting a handle on your finances.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with Vanessa Loney:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessaloneyWebsite: https://www.blueribbon-events.com/Instagram: @vee_loneyLearn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestLogan's Pasta shape - Radiatori: https://www.mamadepandi.com/product/radiatori-dried-pasta/Google Sites: https://workspace.google.com/products/sites/SCORE Mentoring: https://www.score.org/aboutProfit First Book: https://amzn.to/3PxXK66Want our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

Behind the Curtain: What It Really Takes to Plan Events for the U.S. Government with Brittany Carroll 10.06.2026 40Min.

In this episode, Logan and guest co-host Vanessa Loney sit down with Brittany Carroll, Manager of Event Operations at the Library of Congress and former U.S. diplomat, to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to produce events at the highest levels of government. Brittany shares what most event professionals never see: the layers of protocol, the complexity of managing global delegations, and what it takes to source vendors and navigate relationships in countries where the rules and expectations are completely different. If you've ever been curious about government and public sector events, this one will open your eyes.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with guest co-host Vanessa on ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessaloney/Connect with Brittany Carroll:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-a-carrollWebsite: www.arkandsol.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittanyacarroll/Substack: https://substack.com/@lifebeelifinSAM Vendor Database: https://usfcr.com/register-renew/?utm_medium=ppc&utm_term=sam.gov&utm_campaign=SAM&utm_source=adwords&hsa_tgt=kwd-303711204891&hsa_ad=737504210564&hsa_src=g&hsa_mt=b&hsa_ver=3&hsa_cam=122161541&hsa_acc=1449812725&hsa_kw=sam.gov&hsa_grp=5341822301&hsa_net=adwords&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=122161541&gbraid=0AAAAADx-gxsUSU4bel_oTKZe1l74oD5NF&gclid=CjwKCAjw857RBhAgEiwAI-1yKMJwA6sOO3Y5hvJLsnVZFGkeFG2ndoNilWOQBMLoa8rO8gVKwmB_oBoCnNgQAvD_BwEUS Protocol references: https://www.state.gov/protocol-referenceLearn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

Are You Actually Staying Relevant in The Event Industry — Or Just Busy? 03.06.2026 44Min.

In this episode, Logan and guest co-host Vanessa Loney tackle a question every event professional should be asking themselves: Are you actually staying relevant, or are you just staying busy? They dig into what relevance really means in an ever-evolving industry — from how you network and which conferences are actually worth your time to how intentional you're being about vendor relationships and your own visibility. Whether you've been in the industry for two years or twenty, this episode is designed to bring intention and awareness to how you show up and grow in the events world.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with Vanessa Loney:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessaloneyWebsite: https://www.blueribbon-events.com/Instagram: @vee_loneyLearn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestLogan's Pasta shape - Radiatori: https://www.mamadepandi.com/product/radiatori-dried-pasta/Google Sites: https://workspace.google.com/products/sites/SCORE Mentoring: https://www.score.org/aboutProfit First Book: https://amzn.to/3PxXK66Want our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

How to Manage Multiple Events at Once Without Dropping the Ball 27.05.2026 39Min.

This week, Logan and guest co-host Peggy Katz tackle a question sent in by a listener who asked: how many events can you realistically manage at once? Logan and Peggy share how many events they're each currently juggling, how their capacity has evolved over the course of their careers, and how to spot scope creep before it derails your workload. They also dig into the systems and habits that help them stay organized across multiple events, and reflect on the moments they learned they had taken on too much.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with Peggy on ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-katz-2864bb/Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

256 - What Your Graphics Operator Wishes You Knew with Cassy Albert 20.05.2026 36Min.

In this episode, Logan and guest co-host Peggy Katz sit down with presentation designer and graphics operator Cassy Albert to pull back the curtain on one of the key roles in live event production - the slides! Cassy breaks down what a graphics operator actually does during a show, the most common mistakes planners and speakers make when preparing decks, and the best way to receive and organize slides across multiple sessions. If you've ever had a slide moment go wrong onsite, this episode will change how you approach graphics management for good.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with guest co-host Peggy on ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-katz-2864bb/Connect with Cassy Albert:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cassyalbertInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sistersagencyinc/Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

255 - How to Scale Your Event Production for Any Budget — From $10K to the Olympic Games with Peggy Katz 13.05.2026 34Min.

In this episode, Logan and guest co-host Peggy Katz, a veteran producer with seven Olympics under her belt, dig into what it really means to scale an event based on budget, from scrappy under-$10K productions to multi-million dollar international spectacles. They break down how budget impacts your role as a producer or showcaller, the unique pros and cons of working at both ends of the spectrum, and how event resources can shift dramatically depending on what country you're working in. Whether you're producing a local corporate event or dreaming of the Olympic stage, this episode is packed with perspective only experience can bring.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopConnect with Peggy on ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-katz-2864bb/Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

254 - Being Good at Events Is Only Half the Job (of Running an Event Business) 06.05.2026 45Min.

In this episode, Logan and guest co-host Ryan Criswell tackle one of the most honest conversations in the event industry: being great at producing and planning events doesn't automatically make you great at running an event business. They explore the gap between event skills and business skills — from the early moments that revealed what they didn't know, to the systems and habits that have helped them grow on the business side. If you're an event planner or event producer who feels more confident behind a run-of-show than a balance sheet, this episode is for you.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopLearn More About Ryan:Website: ⁠www.cutestoryevents.com⁠Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/cutestoryevents⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-c-048216263/kedin.com%2Fin%2Fryan-c-048216263%2F⁠Facebook: ⁠www.facebook.com/cutestoryeventsLogan's YouTube Video on What to Include on an Invoice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iuac6BAwD7o&t=3sRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

253 - From Venue Coordinating to Event Curator with Tauti Kimbrough 29.04.2026 36Min.

In this episode, we sit down with Tauti Kimbrough to explore what it really means to wear multiple hats in the event industry — from venue marketer to event planner to event host. Joined by guest co-host Ryan Criswell, we discuss how Tauti's unique experience on both sides of an event make her a better host, planner, and venue coordinator.SHOW NOTES:Connect with Tauti Kimbrough:Instagram: @tauti.k (https://www.instagram.com/tauti.k/)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tautiauna-kimbrough/Supper Sociale: https://www.instagram.com/suppersociale/Connect with Ryan (guest co-host):Website: ⁠www.cutestoryevents.com⁠Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/cutestoryevents⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-c-048216263/kedin.com%2Fin%2Fryan-c-048216263%2F⁠Facebook: ⁠www.facebook.com/cutestoryevents ⁠Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

252 - Designing Public-Facing Events That Actually Engage People 22.04.2026 37Min.

In this episode, Logan sits down with guest co-host Ryan Criswell to explore the unique art of producing public-facing events — and what sets them apart from ticketed or corporate experiences. They dig into what meaningful engagement actually looks like when your audience didn't plan to be there, and how to measure success beyond a headcount. Plus, Ryan shares lessons from the public-facing world that any event producer can take back to their next project.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopLearn More About Ryan:Website: www.cutestoryevents.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/cutestoryeventsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-c-048216263/kedin.com%2Fin%2Fryan-c-048216263%2FFacebook: www.facebook.com/cutestoryevents Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

251 - Speaker Management 101: Setting Expectations, Timelines, and Deliverables 15.04.2026 36Min.

Managing speakers can make or break an event — and it starts with setting the right expectations. In this episode, we’re breaking down the fundamentals of speaker management, from when it should begin in the planning process to the key deliverables every speaker should have. We share best practices for communication, timelines, and what speakers actually need to be successful both before and onsite. Plus, how to handle missed deadlines and keep things moving when speakers aren’t as responsive as you’d hoped.SHOW NOTES:Purchase our on-demand How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopPurchase our Conference & Meeting Workbook (speaker tab included): https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/better-events-conferencemeeting-event-planning-workbook-template-excelRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Download it here: https://bettereventspod.com/templates/p/run-of-show-template-freeTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

250 - 250 Episodes Later: What We’ve Learned About Events 08.04.2026 37Min.

We made it to 250 episodes — and we’re taking a moment to reflect on what that really means. In this milestone episode, we look back on the conversations that shaped the podcast, including our top 5 most popular episodes and what we’d say differently today. We also share what 250 episodes have taught us about events, how our perspectives have evolved, and what feels less urgent now than it once did. A reflective, behind-the-scenes conversation — and a big thank you to everyone who’s been part of the journey.SHOW NOTES:Register for our How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopRiverside Podcast Analytics Article: https://riverside.com/blog/podcast-analyticsTop 5 Episodes:Ep. 74 - How to Start an Event Planning Business: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0nu5ut7xSoVjMP8wKTpTGy?si=V9up3CeTQuKuao4JVcj9nQEp. 223 - What Is Day-Of Event Management? A Behind-the-Scenes Deep Dive: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0tBanvW3KYjasVPSmemuxj?si=oOCJWcjxT1y0dlC1tBtGrQEp. 196 - Pre-Event Routines for Event Planners and Event Producers: https://open.spotify.com/episode/748FVGOsYelEDWq3SNTdJ7?si=IBgc9cNfTzeOTRfPzgEExgEp. 227 - The Business of Events: Scaling Budgeting and Ownership: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6LlVHr2pEkcjIVZncdbTIU?si=sCwYrsHnRlq6rDqcYCKVBg Top Episode: Ep. 72 - Skills That Every Event Planner or Event Producer Needs: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2IZPc59zynDFX6NgKAYvLU?si=Nt9q6V58Tj-ywaV_cvpvOwRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

249 -Behind the Scenes of Showcalling and Producing at the Winter Olympics 01.04.2026 32Min.

Working the Olympics looks different depending on where you sit — and this time, Logan was on the in-venue side. In this solo episode, she takes you behind the scenes of her first Winter Games as an Associate Venue Producer, focused on the fan experience inside the venue. From coordinating with sport and broadcast to showcalling her first medal ceremonies, she shares what surprised her most and what this experience taught her about live events at the highest level. A behind-the-scenes look at how these moments actually come together.SHOW NOTES:Register for our How to Start an Event Planning Business Workshop: https://bettereventspod.com/workshopRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

248 - Prepping for Parental Leave as an Event Pro with Jessica Zimmerman 25.03.2026 31Min.

Parental leave in events doesn’t come with a playbook — so you have to build your own.Parental leave can feel overwhelming for event pros considering starting a family — so what does it actually look like to plan for it? In this episode, Mary is joined by event pro Jessica Zimmerman to share their experiences navigating pregnancy while working in events, including how they’re approaching timelines, client communication, and stepping away from work. They get honest about what’s felt easier than expected, what’s been more uncomfortable, and how pregnancy has shifted their mindset around work. This is a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation for anyone thinking about leave — or supporting someone who is.SHOW NOTES:Connect with Jessica Zimmerman:Instagram: @jessicatatezimmermanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-t-85260379/Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

247 - Managing Maker Markets and Vendor Relationships with Sarah Frost 18.03.2026 31Min.

In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Frost to unpack what goes into organizing maker markets and what event pros can learn from them. We dive into her expertise on managing vendor relationships and how to set your event up for long-term success. She shares how she balances curation with inclusivity, prepares for common onsite challenges, and helps vendors feel genuinely supported, not just managed. A practical, values-driven conversation with lessons that apply far beyond markets to conferences, galas, and festivals.SHOW NOTES:Connect with Sarah Frost:Website: ⁠www.makinglocal.comInstagram: @makinglocalmarkets / @makinglocal (2 accounts)Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakingLocalMarketsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-frost-5b8254316/Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

246 - Being an Event Contractor: How to Get Hired (and Rehired) 11.03.2026 42Min.

In this episode, we flip the perspective from last week's episode and talk about what it really means to be an event contractor — and how to get hired (and rehired). We break down how contracting differs from freelancing or staff roles, which event positions tend to work best in this model, and what helps you stand out before you ever arrive onsite. We also cover professional rate conversations, boundaries, and how to be helpful without overstepping. SHOW NOTES:Relisten to the first part in last week's episode, Episode #245! Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

245 - Hiring Event Contractors: Building the Right Team 04.03.2026 29Min.

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to hire event contractors and build the right team for your events. We talk through which roles are typically contracted, how to decide what to outsource versus handle in-house, and where to find great contractors in the first place. We also share the signals that tell us someone will be a strong partner before show day — along with the red flags we’ve learned to take seriously sooner. Get ready to learn how you can use contractors to build out your team (and if you're a contractor, learn what folks hiring look for).SHOW NOTES:Learn more about our partner Kilbreath Events: https://www.kilbreathevents.com/Listen back to episode #115: https://open.spotify.com/episode/56rAzDgoEV1An0hNYI0Awa?si=l5VyW4_sSnCFa0FX9WwsIgRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

244 - Behind the Mic: The Art of Live Announcing with Queen Noveen 25.02.2026 35Min.

In this episode, we’re joined by Queen Noveen — an Emmy-nominated live announcer and voice actress whose voice has powered everything from major sports and awards shows to film, TV, and commercials. We dive into what live announcing actually entails, the preparation and pressure behind the mic, and why it’s far more than “just reading a script.” Queen shares stories from high-profile events, reflects on making history with the first all-female PA announcing team for the 49ers, and offers practical advice on how event organizers can better support on-camera and live talent. A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a role that shapes the energy of live events in real time.SHOW NOTES:Connect with Queen Noveen:Website: ⁠www.QueenNoveen.comYouTube: ⁠ ⁨@QueenNoveen⁩ Tiktok & Instagram: @QueenNoveen Facebook: www.facebook.com/queennoveenLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/queennoveenRegister interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

243 - Where Nonprofits Should Spend Their Time When Planning Fundraising Events 18.02.2026 22Min.

In this solo episode, Mary breaks down where nonprofits should actually spend their time when planning fundraising events — and where effort often gets misplaced. She walks through two common planning scenarios, sharing how to balance relationship-building with logistics, prioritize activities that drive real return, and avoid overspending without sacrificing impact. The conversation also digs into what makes an event “worth it,” from net revenue and donor retention to staff energy and burnout. A grounded, strategic listen for nonprofit teams looking to fundraise more thoughtfully.SHOW NOTES:Learn more about Mary and her business: https://epevents.org/Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.comTHANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)