Host: David Adler Guests: Christopher Felts, Wayne Fernandez If you’re looking to geek out on venues, budgeting, and AV, this episode is for you. Joining BizBash chairman and founder David Adler this week are two experts who understand the intricacies of how having great venue partners can make or break you: Christopher Felts, director of operations for AES NYC, and Wayne Fernandez, the general manager of Magic Box Event Center in Los Angeles. Although located on different coasts, these venues both provide raw, blank canvas spaces to planners. In this conversation, expect the trio to get honest about how quickly partner relationships can go sour, budgeting prowess, and insights into what they’re seeing firsthand in events today. And they see everything.

Host: David Adler Guests: Christopher Felts, Wayne Fernandez If you’re looking to geek out on venues, budgeting, and AV, this episode is for you. Joining BizBash chairman and founder David Adler this week are two experts who understand the intricacies of how having great venue partners can make or break you: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-felts-0b475b71/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Christopher Felts</a>, director of operations for AES NYC, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/waynefernandez/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Wayne Fernandez</a>, the general manager of Magic Box Event Center in Los Angeles. Although located on different coasts, these venues both provide raw, blank canvas spaces to planners. In this conversation, expect the trio to get honest about how quickly partner relationships can go sour, budgeting prowess, and insights into what they’re seeing firsthand in events today. And they see everything.

What It’s Like to Manage an Event Venue Today

Host: David Adler Guest: Michael Cirino In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Michael Cirino, the mastermind behind the 100-Course Meal and founder of creative studio House of Attention. Cirino knows that events have the power to evoke emotions and leave lasting impressions, and his storytelling prowess is sure to leave you inspired. In this episode, he shares the secrets behind that groundbreaking dinner event, discusses the inner workings of House of Attention and his concept of “big ideas,” and reveals his remarkable perspective on event experiences. This conversation is sure to challenge your perceptions and ignite your imagination. 

Host: David Adler Guest: Michael Cirino In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcirino/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Michael Cirino</a>, the mastermind behind the <a href="https://www.bizbash.com/production-strategy/event-production-fabrication/media-gallery/21105392/how-thrillist-hosted-a-100course-meal" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">100-Course Meal</a> and founder of creative studio <a href="https://www.httn.xyz/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">House of Attention</a>. Cirino knows that events have the power to evoke emotions and leave lasting impressions, and his storytelling prowess is sure to leave you inspired. In this episode, he shares the secrets behind that groundbreaking dinner event, discusses the inner workings of House of Attention and his concept of “big ideas,” and reveals his remarkable perspective on event experiences. This conversation is sure to challenge your perceptions and ignite your imagination.

Why Big Event Ideas Only Matter If They’re Impactful

Host: David Adler Guest: Chris Detert In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Chris Detert, chief communications officer for Influential, dubbed as the largest influencer marketing company in the world. The company recently wrapped work for Possible, a new marketing conference that brought brands and tech and media companies—plus big-name speakers like A-Rod, Elon Musk, and LL Cool J—to Miami last month. In this lively convo, Detert discusses Influential’s nail-biting approach to helping make this inaugural conference successful, curating celebrity speakers, how the company completed a big land grab for the upcoming Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity by taking over Twitter Beach, and the promising future of AI.

Host: David Adler Guest: Chris Detert In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdetert/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Chris Detert</a>, chief communications officer for <a href="https://www.influential.co/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Influential</a>, dubbed as the largest influencer marketing company in the world. The company recently wrapped work for Possible, a new marketing conference that brought brands and tech and media companies—plus big-name speakers like A-Rod, Elon Musk, and LL Cool J—to Miami last month. In this lively convo, Detert discusses Influential’s nail-biting approach to helping make this inaugural conference successful, curating celebrity speakers, how the company completed a big land grab for the upcoming Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity by taking over Twitter Beach, and the promising future of AI.

Why Celebs Descended on an Event No One’s Heard of Before

Host: David Adler Guests: Meera Somji, Andrew Carney In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Meera Somji and Andrew Carney, the co-founders of Clusivity, a consultancy that helps organizations take a data-driven approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The duo recently gave a presentation at the 2023 SISO CEO Summit in Las Vegas and used a powerful storytelling style that masterfully combined hard facts and compelling narratives. In this candid conversation, Somji and Carney discuss how they crafted that presentation for the SISO audience (comprising global show organizers), as well as how their company is breaking new ground and addressing DEI in the events industry in unique ways. This episode also explores the challenges and opportunities that come with implementing DEI strategies—plus the impact these efforts can have on both the industry and the world at large.

Host: David Adler Guests: Meera Somji, Andrew Carney In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/meera-somji/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Meera Somji</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-carney-48a18b41/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Andrew Carney</a>, the co-founders of <a href="https://clusivity.io/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Clusivity</a>, a consultancy that helps organizations take a data-driven approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The duo recently gave a presentation at the 2023 SISO CEO Summit in Las Vegas and used a powerful storytelling style that masterfully combined hard facts and compelling narratives. In this candid conversation, Somji and Carney discuss how they crafted that presentation for the SISO audience (comprising global show organizers), as well as how their company is breaking new ground and addressing DEI in the events industry in unique ways. This episode also explores the challenges and opportunities that come with implementing DEI strategies—plus the impact these efforts can have on both the industry and the world at large.

DEI in the Events Industry—Why There's Still a Long Way to Go

Host: David Adler Guests: Chris and Jill Drury In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Chris and Jill Drury, the husband-and-wife team behind event agency Drury Design. The two are involved in just about every aspect of group dynamics for both virtual and in-person events. They are the go-to couple for updates on what’s really going on in the world of large corporate events. They collaborate on all aspects of their business—whether it’s with clients like IBM and Microsoft, their teams, and especially with attendees. In this episode, they discuss the biggest changes in the events industry in recent years ("people want more meaning out of these events," Chris said), plus how to create an atmosphere of openness, piggybacking private events around major trade shows, and an exercise they do internally called “idea jams.” If you want a sense of what’s going on in the industry right now, take a listen.

Host: David Adler Guests: Chris and Jill Drury In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdrury/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Chris</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jilltaubdrury/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jill Drury</a>, the husband-and-wife team behind event agency <a href="https://www.bizbash.com/supplier-directory/event-production/event-production-companies/supplier/13400351/drury-design-dynamics-inc" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Drury Design</a>. The two are involved in just about every aspect of group dynamics for both virtual and in-person events. They are the go-to couple for updates on what’s really going on in the world of large corporate events. They collaborate on all aspects of their business—whether it’s with clients like IBM and Microsoft, their teams, and especially with attendees. In this episode, they discuss the biggest changes in the events industry in recent years ("people want more meaning out of these events," Chris said), plus how to create an atmosphere of openness, piggybacking private events around major trade shows, and an exercise they do internally called “idea jams.” If you want a sense of what’s going on in the industry right now, take a listen.

How Event Attendees Think Today

Host: David Adler Guest: Jonathan Steffert In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Jonathan Steffert, the cultural attaché of public diplomacy and public affairs for the New Zealand Embassy in Washington, D.C. Steffert represents a new generation of diplomats who understand the importance of developing soft power in ways that engage and promote the values of their country. He's a great believer in using storytelling in every part of his job, especially when hosting events at the embassy. (Pro tip: This includes mowing the lawn ahead of every event to get that great cut-grass smell, and handing out friendship pins off his own suit when other people show an interest.) Steffert is one of the most strategic thinkers on soft power. And as the epitome of New Zealand love for the environment, diversity, and kindness, his lessons are as important for an experiential marketer, to a meeting planner, to an event designer, and everything in between. Take a listen, and take notes.

Host: David Adler Guest: Jonathan Steffert In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathansteffert/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Jonathan Steffert</a>, the cultural attaché of public diplomacy and public affairs for the New Zealand Embassy in Washington, D.C. Steffert represents a new generation of diplomats who understand the importance of developing soft power in ways that engage and promote the values of their country. He's a great believer in using storytelling in every part of his job, especially when hosting events at the embassy. (Pro tip: This includes mowing the lawn ahead of every event to get that great cut-grass smell, and handing out friendship pins off his own suit when other people show an interest.) Steffert is one of the most strategic thinkers on soft power. And as the epitome of New Zealand love for the environment, diversity, and kindness, his lessons are as important for an experiential marketer, to a meeting planner, to an event designer, and everything in between. Take a listen, and take notes.

What Event Profs Can Learn From a New Generation of Diplomats

Host: David Adler Guest: Richard Waddington In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Richard Waddington, one of the most creative players on the international event scene. He is the co-founder and former CEO of event agency First Protocol, which is now known as FIRST. And he’s been in the news recently as part of PCMA’s acquisition of the U.K.-based Event Marketing Association (following its acquisition of another event marketing body, CEMA, in 2020). Here, Waddington recalls working his way up the hospitality ladder, candidly discusses his struggle with dyslexia, and speaks about trust and the importance of apprenticeship relationships. As a leader and a participant in the huge growth of the events industry over the past 20 years, Waddington is a must-listen guest. The episode concludes with the return of our “Ask the Experts.” Dawn Penfold of Meetingjobs talks dealing with being miserable at work—and how to know when it’s time to leave. And wine and spirits specialist Vanessa Cominsky returns to discuss how wine is no longer a luxury but a must-have at events, plus how cannabis and nonalcoholic beverages are faring now.

Host: David Adler Guest: Richard Waddington In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-waddington-b6922714/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Richard Waddington</a>, one of the most creative players on the international event scene. He is the co-founder and former CEO of event agency First Protocol, which is now known as <a href="https://firstagency.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">FIRST</a>. And he’s been in the news recently as part of PCMA’s acquisition of the U.K.-based <a href="https://ema-uk.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Event Marketing Association</a> (following its acquisition of another event marketing body, CEMA, in 2020). Here, Waddington recalls working his way up the hospitality ladder, candidly discusses his struggle with dyslexia, and speaks about trust and the importance of apprenticeship relationships. As a leader and a participant in the huge growth of the events industry over the past 20 years, Waddington is a must-listen guest. The episode concludes with the return of our “Ask the Experts.” <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-penfold-9699053/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Dawn Penfold</a> of Meetingjobs talks dealing with being miserable at work—and how to know when it’s time to leave. And wine and spirits specialist <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-cominsky-156b671b/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Vanessa Cominsky</a> returns to discuss how wine is no longer a luxury but a must-have at events, plus how cannabis and nonalcoholic beverages are faring now.

Turning Weaknesses Into Strengths to Lead an Event Agency

Host: David Adler Guests: Hugh Forrest, Cindy Lo In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with two key event profs behind South by Southwest (SXSW), the buzzy annual festival in Austin that attracts emerging talent, iconic performances, and groundbreaking ideas in the realms of music, TV/film, tech, and culture. We first hear from Hugh Forrest, SXSW’s co-president and chief programming officer, who delves into the festival’s 30-plus-year history, how it’s evolved and thrived in those decades, why AI will be a big topic this year, and what else he’s most looking forward to at the 2023 festival. Cindy Lo, CEO of full-service events agency RED VELVET, then joins the pod. She’s been producing brand events and activations for years with SXSW, and here she discusses what both planners and attendees want most out of these experiences, how brands are measuring ROI, and how the fest is attracting younger generations. This is a preview episode you won’t want to miss.

Host: David Adler Guests: Hugh Forrest, Cindy Lo In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with two key event profs behind South by Southwest (SXSW), the buzzy annual festival in Austin that attracts emerging talent, iconic performances, and groundbreaking ideas in the realms of music, TV/film, tech, and culture. We first hear from <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughforrest/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Hugh Forrest</a>, SXSW’s co-president and chief programming officer, who delves into the festival’s 30-plus-year history, how it’s evolved and thrived in those decades, why AI will be a big topic this year, and what else he’s most looking forward to at the 2023 festival. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/redvelvetevents/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Cindy Lo</a>, CEO of full-service events agency <a href="https://www.bizbash.com/supplier-directory/event-meeting-planning-marketing-pr/event-planning-marketing-firms/supplier/13461375/red-velvet-events-inc" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">RED VELVET</a>, then joins the pod. She’s been producing brand events and activations for years with SXSW, and here she discusses what both planners and attendees want most out of these experiences, how brands are measuring ROI, and how the fest is attracting younger generations. This is a preview episode you won’t want to miss.

The Event Profs Behind SXSW on What to Expect This Year

Host: David Adler Guest: Luigi Romaniello In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Luigi Romaniello, the new managing director of New York’s iconic The Plaza Hotel. Like the famous book series Eloise, the 30-year industry veteran actually lives at The Plaza where he oversees all aspects of the luxury hotel, including daily operations, guest experiences, and continued growth strategies. He comes to New York after years managing other iconic properties in The Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Dallas, and Abu Dhabi. He's the first one to tell us that no one really owns The Plaza except for the people of New York. And in this interview, he also touches on his management philosophy, what hospitality looks like today, and how hotels can become epicenters of community. In addition, you’ll hear from three new “Ask the Expert” guests: Tim Groot, CEO and founder of Grip, an AI-powered event platform; and renowned event designers David Beahm of David Beahm Experiences and Todd Fiscus of Todd Events.

Host: David Adler Guest: Luigi Romaniello In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/luigi-romaniello-7803a696/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Luigi Romaniello</a>, the new managing director of New York’s iconic <a href="https://www.theplazany.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">The Plaza Hotel</a>. Like the famous book series Eloise, the 30-year industry veteran actually lives at The Plaza where he oversees all aspects of the luxury hotel, including daily operations, guest experiences, and continued growth strategies. He comes to New York after years managing other iconic properties in The Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Dallas, and Abu Dhabi. He's the first one to tell us that no one really owns The Plaza except for the people of New York. And in this interview, he also touches on his management philosophy, what hospitality looks like today, and how hotels can become epicenters of community. In addition, you’ll hear from three new “Ask the Expert” guests: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/timgroot/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Tim Groot</a>, CEO and founder of Grip, an AI-powered event platform; and renowned event designers David Beahm of <a href="https://www.davidbeahm.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">David Beahm Experience</a>s and Todd Fiscus of <a href="https://www.toddevents.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Todd Events</a>.

What Is Hospitality Today? Take It From The Plaza

Host: David Adler Guests: Paul Bulencea, Claus Raasted, Tahira Endean In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder sits down with the founders of the College of Extraordinary Experiences, a five-day conference held inside a 13th-century Polish castle that uses an immersive education method to study experience design. We also hear from “graduates” of the conference—including IMEX's head of programming Tahira Endean—on the life-changing learning that impacts how they plan events and conduct their lives. Founders Paul Bulencea and Claus Raasted come from the world of LARP (live-action role playing)—could that be the ticket to entice this next generation of eventgoers? We also hear from our returning “Ask the Experts.” Wine and spirits specialist Vanessa Cominsky delves into wine myths, and hiring pro Dawn Penfold of Meetingjobs discusses what hiring managers in the meeting and event industry are looking for today.

Host: David Adler Guests: Paul Bulencea, Claus Raasted, Tahira Endean In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder sits down with the founders of the <a href="https://extraordinary.college/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">College of Extraordinary Experiences</a>, a five-day conference held inside a 13th-century Polish castle that uses an immersive education method to study experience design. We also hear from “graduates” of the conference—including IMEX's head of programming <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahira-endean-citp-cmp-ced-918a868/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Tahira Endean</a>—on the life-changing learning that impacts how they plan events and conduct their lives. Founders <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbulencea/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Paul Bulencea</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/clausraasted/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Claus Raasted</a> come from the world of LARP (live-action role playing)—could that be the ticket to entice this next generation of eventgoers? We also hear from our returning “Ask the Experts.” Wine and spirits specialist <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-cominsky-156b671b/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Vanessa Cominsky</a> delves into wine myths, and hiring pro <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-penfold-9699053/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Dawn Penfold</a> of Meetingjobs discusses what hiring managers in the meeting and event industry are looking for today.

How This 5-Day Gathering in Poland Tests the Boundaries of Live Experiences

Welcome to GatherGeeks, a place where people passionate about the power of live experiences come together. Join David Adler, chairman and founder of BizBash, as he discusses the latest news and trends affecting event marketers, meeting strategists, nonprofit organizers, and everyone in between. This podcast by BizBash is the destination for information, innovation, and inspiration for anyone involved in planning events and meetings, from conferences, trade shows, and fund-raising galas to product launches, festivals, award shows, weddings, and birthdays.Look for GatherGeeks in your favorite platforms: iTunes, Audible, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, with more on the way. Connect with us on Twitter at @BizBash and join the conversation using the hashtag #gathergeeks.

Host: David Adler Guests: Carla Ruben, Chap Gage, Dawn Penfold, Vanessa Cominsky In this episode of GatherGeeks, along with the main interviews, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler has added two new “Ask the Expert” features. One is with career and hiring pro Dawn Penfold, president of Meetingjobs, who will discuss salary transparency and where the job market is today. Our second expert is Vanessa Cominsky, wine and spirits specialist for Prestige-Ledroit Distributing Co., who will touch on how the wine and beverage industry has changed because of the pandemic. In the main interviews, our two speakers give us a sense of the state of the catering industry. Carla Ruben, owner of Creative Edge Parties, dishes on a new generation of guests at events, and how clients are moving away from comfort food and leaning into clean, luxurious offerings. Then, Chap Gage, CEO of Susan Gage Caterers, discusses how the building blocks of a great company include taking care of coworkers and building meaningful relationships with clients and the community, and how aspects of his military training have become a benchmark for service.

Host: David Adler Guests: Carla Ruben, Chap Gage, Dawn Penfold, Vanessa Cominsky In this episode of GatherGeeks, along with the main interviews, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler has added two new “Ask the Expert” features. One is with career and hiring pro <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-penfold-9699053/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Dawn Penfold</a>, president of Meetingjobs, who will discuss salary transparency and where the job market is today. Our second expert is <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-cominsky-156b671b/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vanessa Cominsky</a>, wine and spirits specialist for Prestige-Ledroit Distributing Co., who will touch on how the wine and beverage industry has changed because of the pandemic. In the main interviews, our two speakers give us a sense of the state of the catering industry. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-ruben-43874527/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Carla Ruben</a>, owner of <a href="https://www.bizbash.com/supplier-directory/catering-food-services/full-service-caterers/supplier/13386187/creative-edge-parties" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Creative Edge Parties</a>, dishes on a new generation of guests at events, and how clients are moving away from comfort food and leaning into clean, luxurious offerings. Then, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chappall-gage-3543275/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Chap Gage</a>, CEO of <a href="https://www.bizbash.com/supplier-directory/catering-food-services/full-service-caterers/supplier/13408192/susan-gage-caterers" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Susan Gage Caterers</a>, discusses how the building blocks of a great company include taking care of coworkers and building meaningful relationships with clients and the community, and how aspects of his military training have become a benchmark for service.

Dishing on the Catering Industry—What to Know to Be a Better Client in Today's Market

In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with BizBash’s editorial team—interim editorial director Shannon Thaler, managing editor Sarah Kloepple, and senior contributing editor Claire Hoffman—to discuss how events fared in 2022. The trio answer questions about what gave them “goosebump moments” this year, their favorite BizBash stories they worked on in 2022, and what they predict is in store for the industry in 2023. 

In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with BizBash’s editorial team—interim editorial director <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-thaler-899796176/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Shannon Thaler</a>, managing editor <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kloepple/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Sarah Kloepple</a>, and senior contributing editor <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairehoffman/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Claire Hoffman</a>—to discuss how events fared in 2022. The trio answer questions about what gave them “goosebump moments” this year, their favorite BizBash stories they worked on in 2022, and what they predict is in store for the industry in 2023.

A Year in Review with BizBash's Editorial Team

Host: David Adler Guest: Deesha Dyer Imagine orchestrating a visit from the pope and a Chinese state dinner… within days of each other. In this episode of GatherGeeks, recorded live at Connect Winter Marketplace in Washington, D.C, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Deesha Dyer, who served as the White House social secretary—the person responsible for planning and coordinating official social events at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.—for the last two years of the Obama administration. Dyer is also the founder and CEO of Hook &amp; Fasten, a social impact agency that specializes in transformational relationships between corporations and communities, diversity and inclusion, and executive operations. In this conversation, Dyers gets candid on navigating stressful moments in a high-stakes environment, working with Michelle Obama, how she started as an intern at the White House, lessons she’s learned, and insights on serving the country.

Host: David Adler Guest: Deesha Dyer Imagine orchestrating a visit from the pope and a Chinese state dinner… within days of each other. In this episode of GatherGeeks, recorded live at Connect Winter Marketplace in Washington, D.C, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/deeshadyer/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Deesha Dyer</a>, who served as the White House social secretary—the person responsible for planning and coordinating official social events at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.—for the last two years of the Obama administration. Dyer is also the founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.hookandfasten.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Hook &amp; Fasten</a>, a social impact agency that specializes in transformational relationships between corporations and communities, diversity and inclusion, and executive operations. In this conversation, Dyers gets candid on navigating stressful moments in a high-stakes environment, working with Michelle Obama, how she started as an intern at the White House, lessons she’s learned, and insights on serving the country.

State Dinners to Top-Secret Events—Lessons From a Former White House Social Secretary

Host: David Adler Guests: Tony Wagner, Sara Meyer Meeting professionals are constantly multitasking. The last thing they want to do is spend time on manual, tedious processes that should just be easy—including cross-checking spreadsheets to track down commissions and payments. This is where Onyx CenterSource’s GroupPay™ can help. This holistic solution is an industry-first payments automation platform that provides hotels and meeting professionals with unparalleled transparency and efficiency to track and proactively manage their event commissions—which, in turn, enables easy reconciliation and faster payments. In this special sponsored episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Onyx’s Tony Wagner and Sara Meyer to discuss the company’s expansion into the meetings and events payments sector of the hospitality industry, how GroupPay™ can help when planners feel like they’re “flying blind,” and what fast, easy commissions can look like with the right technology in place. Do you manage the meetings and events commission payments process? Tell us your thoughts on how we can streamline and simplify this process for a chance to win an Apple Watch Series 8! Take the survey  here. Sponsored by Onyx CenterSource.

Host: David Adler Guests: Tony Wagner, Sara Meyer Meeting professionals are constantly multitasking. The last thing they want to do is spend time on manual, tedious processes that should just be easy—including cross-checking spreadsheets to track down commissions and payments. This is where Onyx CenterSource’s GroupPay™ can help. This holistic solution is an industry-first payments automation platform that provides hotels and meeting professionals with unparalleled transparency and efficiency to track and proactively manage their event commissions—which, in turn, enables easy reconciliation and faster payments. In this special sponsored episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Onyx’s Tony Wagner and Sara Meyer to discuss the company’s expansion into the meetings and events payments sector of the hospitality industry, how GroupPay™ can help when planners feel like they’re “flying blind,” and what fast, easy commissions can look like with the right technology in place. Do you manage the meetings and events commission payments process? Tell us your thoughts on how we can streamline and simplify this process for a chance to win an Apple Watch Series 8! Take the survey <a href="https://bizbash.surveysparrow.com/s/BizBash-x-Onyx-CenterSource-Survey/tt-073bdf9705" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here</a>. Sponsored by <a href="https://www.onyxcentersource.com/group-management/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Onyx CenterSource</a>.

How This Tech Company Is Simplifying B2B Payments for the Meetings and Events Industry

Host: David Adler Guest: Amy Calvert In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Amy Calvert, CEO of the Events Industry Council (EIC), which oversees more than 30 member organizations in the events industry. The EIC is a global champion of event profs and event industry excellence, offering professional standards and recognition and certification programs that take the industry to new heights. In this podcast, Calvert divulges what keeps her up at night representing this industry, discusses why inspiring young people to enter the industry is more important than ever, and how the CMP—considered the gold standard for planners—is changing as a result of the pandemic.

Host: David Adler Guest: Amy Calvert In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-calvert-24449b2b/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Amy Calvert</a>, CEO of the <a href="https://www.eventscouncil.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Events Industry Council</a> (EIC), which oversees more than 30 member organizations in the events industry. The EIC is a global champion of event profs and event industry excellence, offering professional standards and recognition and certification programs that take the industry to new heights. In this podcast, Calvert divulges what keeps her up at night representing this industry, discusses why inspiring young people to enter the industry is more important than ever, and how the CMP—considered the gold standard for planners—is changing as a result of the pandemic.

Setting the Standards for the Events Industry

Host: David Adler Guest: Doug Emslie In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with Doug Emslie, CEO of Tarsus Group (one of the largest exhibition companies in the world), to get a global perspective on trade shows and exhibitions. How have things changed since the pandemic? How do they differ culturally between markets like Europe, the Middle East, and North America? Emslie also discusses how to bring back attendees each year, how the global structure of events is becoming more regional, the rise of bleisure travel, and why technology and sustainability will be positive disruptors to the industry.

Host: David Adler Guest: Doug Emslie In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sits down with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-emslie-2540405/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Doug Emslie</a>, CEO of <a href="https://www.tarsus.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tarsus Group</a> (one of the largest exhibition companies in the world), to get a global perspective on trade shows and exhibitions. How have things changed since the pandemic? How do they differ culturally between markets like Europe, the Middle East, and North America? Emslie also discusses how to bring back attendees each year, how the global structure of events is becoming more regional, the rise of bleisure travel, and why technology and sustainability will be positive disruptors to the industry.

How Are Global Exhibitions Changing Today?

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Vaibhav Jain In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Vaibhav Jain, CEO of event technology solution Hubilo, to discuss how he took the company from a local in-person event solution to a global behemoth. He also touches on how he realized events could be life-changing, how he raised money and pivoted strategy, and how he knew the platform had to involve agile, fast development to meet client needs.

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Vaibhav Jain In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Vaibhav Jain, CEO of event technology solution Hubilo, to discuss how he took the company from a local in-person event solution to a global behemoth. He also touches on how he realized events could be life-changing, how he raised money and pivoted strategy, and how he knew the platform had to involve agile, fast development to meet client needs.

A Virtual Event Platform's Path to Global Recognition

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Damien Baines In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Damien Baines, the experiential marketing lead at Instagram. They go behind the scenes at Meta Beach where, for the first time, the company has used Meta branding at the festival. Baines also discusses what inspired many of the elements for this year’s beach, planning a superbloom-themed dinner for the event, and how Instagram aims to highlight all types of creativity and passion on the platform.

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Damien Baines In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Damien Baines, the experiential marketing lead at Instagram. They go behind the scenes at Meta Beach where, for the first time, the company has used Meta branding at the festival. Baines also discusses what inspired many of the elements for this year’s beach, planning a superbloom-themed dinner for the event, and how Instagram aims to highlight all types of creativity and passion on the platform.

Behind the Scenes of Meta Beach at Cannes 2022

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Judy Lee In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Judy Lee, head of global brand experiences and programs at Pinterest. She breaks down her team's strategy and execution of Pinterest Beach, which put creatives front and center. She also discusses being a jury member for this year's festival, Pinterest's approach to face-to-face marketing, and creating spaces that reflect a multitude of different communities.

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Judy Lee In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Judy Lee, head of global brand experiences and programs at Pinterest. She breaks down her team's strategy and execution of Pinterest Beach, which put creatives front and center. She also discusses being a jury member for this year's festival, Pinterest's approach to face-to-face marketing, and creating spaces that reflect a multitude of different communities.

How Creativity Shined at Pinterest’s Cannes 2022 Activation

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Keyana Kashfi In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Keyana Kashfi, the global senior director of experiential and content production at Spotify. Kashfi, who is also a BizBash Event Master, was in charge of the creation of Spotify Beach at this year’s festival. She brought in some of the world’s top musical talent not only to grab attention at Cannes, but to prove that live experiences are critical to Spotify. In this podcast she also discusses the daytime/nighttime approach her and her team took to create Spotify Beach, differences she’s seeing in audiences post-2020, and advice for event pros just starting out.

Hosts: David Adler, Claire Hoffman Guest: Keyana Kashfi In this special edition of GatherGeeks—recorded live at the 2022 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity—hosts David Adler and Claire Hoffman (BizBash’s senior contributing editor) sit down with Keyana Kashfi, the global senior director of experiential and content production at Spotify. Kashfi, who is also a BizBash Event Master, was in charge of the creation of Spotify Beach at this year’s festival. She brought in some of the world’s top musical talent not only to grab attention at Cannes, but to prove that live experiences are critical to Spotify. In this podcast she also discusses the daytime/nighttime approach her and her team took to create Spotify Beach, differences she’s seeing in audiences post-2020, and advice for event pros just starting out.

Inside Spotify's Daytime/Nighttime Approach at Cannes 2022

Helps planners in Israel to connect with leading US market, lots of ideas and smart people!

Awesome Podcast!

Enjoy this series / podcast very much. Keep up the incredible work. M. #mcapproved

Bravo!

Welcome to GatherGeeks, a place where people passionate about the power of live experiences come together. Join David Adler, chairman and founder of BizBash, as he discusses the latest news and trends affecting event marketers, meeting strategists, nonprofit organizers, and everyone in between. This podcast by BizBash is the destination for information, innovation, and inspiration for anyone involved in planning events and meetings, from conferences, trade shows, and fund-raising galas to product launches, festivals, award shows, weddings, and birthdays. Look for GatherGeeks in your favorite platforms: iTunes, Audible, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, with more on the way. Connect with us on Twitter at @BizBash and join the conversation using the hashtag #gathergeeks.

GatherGeeks by BizBash: The Event Industry Podcast

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Gianna Gaudini In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash C.E.O. David Adler chats with Gianna Gaudini, author of The Art of Event Planning: Pro Tips From an Industry Insider. Gaudini discusses what she learned in a decade of planning events for Google, why she says that "everyone is an event planner," and tips for creating a cohesive event narrative from start to finish. She also shares tips for staying healthy and focused on event day, why personalization is crucial for attendees, learning to trust your team, and much more. Download or subscribe to the show at bizbash.com/gathergeeks. Running time: 1:01:26

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Gianna Gaudini In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash C.E.O. David Adler chats with Gianna Gaudini, author of The Art of Event Planning: Pro Tips From an Industry Insider. Gaudini discusses what she learned in a decade of planning events for Google, why she says that "everyone is an event planner," and tips for creating a cohesive event narrative from start to finish. She also shares tips for staying healthy and focused on event day, why personalization is crucial for attendees, learning to trust your team, and much more. Download or subscribe to the show at <a href="http://bizbash.com/gathergeeks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bizbash.com/gathergeeks</a>. Running time: 1:01:26

Why Event Design Should Never Come First, and Other Tips from a Top Event Producer (Episode 187)

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Dan Mannix In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman David Adler and special projects editor Beth Kormanik chat with Dan Mannix, C.E.O. of CSM North America. Mannix shares tricks of the trade for large-scale fan experiences such as sporting events, diving into details on security, transportation, and line control. He also shares tips for standout brand activations at larger festivals like South by Southwest, plus how to hire strong temporary staffers, the event trends he's most excited about, and much more. Download or subscribe to the show at bizbash.com/gathergeeks. Running time: 49:56

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Dan Mannix In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash chairman David Adler and special projects editor Beth Kormanik chat with Dan Mannix, C.E.O. of CSM North America. Mannix shares tricks of the trade for large-scale fan experiences such as sporting events, diving into details on security, transportation, and line control. He also shares tips for standout brand activations at larger festivals like South by Southwest, plus how to hire strong temporary staffers, the event trends he's most excited about, and much more. Download or subscribe to the show at <a href="http://bizbash.com/gathergeeks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bizbash.com/gathergeeks</a>. Running time: 49:56

Using Events to Turn Consumers Into Superfans (Episode 188)

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Andy Kushner In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash C.E.O. David Adler and editor in chief Beth Kormanik hear from Andy Kushner, C.E.O. and founder of Kushner Entertainment and host of the popular industry podcast The Wedding Biz. Kushner discusses how vendors—which he prefers to call "creative partners"—can become more strategic, helping craft an experience rather than just providing a service. He also gives his take on the state of live music in the event industry, the hottest trends in entertainment today, and how performers can appeal to multigenerational audiences. Kushner also shares why podcasts are such an effective marketing tool, why he's not afraid to interview his competitors on his show, and more insights. Download or subscribe to the show at bizbash.com/gathergeeks. Running time: 39:27

Hosts: David Adler, Beth Kormanik Guest: Andy Kushner In this episode of GatherGeeks, BizBash C.E.O. David Adler and editor in chief Beth Kormanik hear from Andy Kushner, C.E.O. and founder of Kushner Entertainment and host of the popular industry podcast The Wedding Biz. Kushner discusses how vendors—which he prefers to call "creative partners"—can become more strategic, helping craft an experience rather than just providing a service. He also gives his take on the state of live music in the event industry, the hottest trends in entertainment today, and how performers can appeal to multigenerational audiences. Kushner also shares why podcasts are such an effective marketing tool, why he's not afraid to interview his competitors on his show, and more insights. Download or subscribe to the show at <a href="http://bizbash.com/gathergeeks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bizbash.com/gathergeeks</a>. Running time: 39:27

How Event Vendors Can Become More Strategic (Episode 177)

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