The Event Innovator Show With Phil Mershon podcast

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

הוסף לפני twenty-nine שבועות

תוכן מסופק על ידי Phil Mershon. כל תוכן הפודקאסטים כולל פרקים, גרפיקה ותיאורי פודקאסטים מועלים ומסופקים ישירות על ידי Phil Mershon או שותף פלטפורמת הפודקאסט שלהם. אם אתה מאמין שמישהו משתמש ביצירה שלך המוגנת בזכויות יוצרים ללא רשותך, אתה יכול לעקוב אחר התהליך המתואר כאן https://he.player.fm/legal.

In Her Ellement

1
Navigating Career Pivots and Grit with Milo’s Avni Patel Thompson 26:18

לפני 18 ימים26:18

הפעל מאוחר יותר

רשימות

לייק

אהבתי

26:18

How do you know when it’s time to make your next big career move? With International Women’s Day around the corner, we are excited to feature Avni Patel Thompson, Founder and CEO of Milo. Avni is building technology that directly supports the often overlooked emotional and logistical labor that falls on parents—especially women. Milo is an AI assistant designed to help families manage that invisible load more efficiently. In this episode, Avni shares her journey from studying chemistry to holding leadership roles at global brands like Adidas and Starbucks, to launching her own ventures. She discusses how she approaches career transitions, the importance of unpleasant experiences, and why she’s focused on making everyday life easier for parents. [01:26] Avni's University Days and Early Career [04:36] Non-Linear Career Paths [05:16] Pursuing Steep Learning Curves [11:51] Entrepreneurship and Safety Nets [15:22] Lived Experiences and Milo [19:55] Avni’s In Her Ellement Moment [20:03] Reflections Links: Avni Patel Thompson on LinkedIn Suchi Srinivasan on LinkedIn Kamila Rakhimova on LinkedIn Ipsos report on the future of parenting About In Her Ellement: In Her Ellement highlights the women and allies leading the charge in digital, business, and technology innovation. Through engaging conversations, the podcast explores their journeys—celebrating successes and acknowledging the balance between work and family. Most importantly, it asks: when was the moment you realized you hadn’t just arrived—you were truly in your element? About The Hosts: Suchi Srinivasan is an expert in AI and digital transformation. Originally from India, her career includes roles at trailblazing organizations like Bell Labs and Microsoft. In 2011, she co-founded the Cleanweb Hackathon, a global initiative driving IT-powered climate solutions with over 10,000 members across 25+ countries. She also advises Women in Cloud, aiming to create $1B in economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs by 2030. Kamila Rakhimova is a fintech leader whose journey took her from Tajikistan to the U.S., where she built a career on her own terms. Leveraging her English proficiency and international relations expertise, she discovered the power of microfinance and moved to the U.S., eventually leading Amazon's Alexa Fund to support underrepresented founders. Subscribe to In Her Ellement on your podcast app of choice to hear meaningful conversations with women in digital, business, and technology.…

The Event Innovator Show with Phil Mershon

שתפו

בית הסדרות•Feed

The Event Innovator Show is your go-to podcast for fresh ideas and breakthrough strategies in the event industry. Whether you're launching your first event or looking to reignite the impact of an established one, join host Phil Mershon—event strategist, coach, and author of Unforgettable: The Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences—as he interviews leading event creators and innovators. Each episode uncovers the secrets behind successful events, exploring everything from cutting-edge technology to creative content and unique venue ideas. Tune in weekly to discover the tools and inspiration you need to elevate your events and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

34 פרקים

The Event Innovator Show with Phil Mershon

updated לפני 3 ימים

שתפו

בית הסדרות•Feed

34 פרקים

כל הפרקים

1
The 3-Minute Stare: How Vulnerability Creates Community That Lasts 49:32

לפני 3 ימים49:32

49:32

What if the secret to building an unshakeable community isn't another marketing funnel or content strategy, but something far more fundamental? In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dana Malstaff, founder of Boss Mom, who reveals the counterintuitive approach that helped her build a thriving community of entrepreneur mothers. You'll discover why she begins her events by having complete strangers stare into each other's eyes for three full minutes—and why this vulnerability exercise creates bonds that last for years. Dana shares what 10 years of community building has taught her about human connection, including: Why most events overwhelm attendees with information when what they really crave is connection The power of "calling the elephant into the room" to break down walls instantly How facilitating meaningful conversations creates more loyalty than any content ever could The exact process she uses to train table facilitators to handle difficult personalities Why creating "inside jokes" might be your most powerful community-building tool As Dana reveals, "People will tell me, 'Eighty percent of the people at my event now, we met at your event ten years ago.'" That's the lasting power of designed vulnerability. Whether you're planning your first gathering or reimagining your tenth annual conference, this conversation will transform how you think about creating spaces where people feel truly seen, human, and free to have fun. Contact Dana: website: bossmom.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danamalstaff/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danamalstaff…

1
Reimagining Events Where Connections Trump Keynotes 41:08

לפני 17 ימים41:08

41:08

Have you ever felt frustrated by traditional conferences? The endless parade of speakers, packed schedules, and limited opportunities for meaningful connections? I certainly have. That's why I was intrigued when I heard about Vincent Pugliese's innovative "unconference" concept. Vincent reveals how he transformed his frustration with typical conferences into a unique gathering that sold out months in advance - without any marketing. He explains the meticulous vetting process for attendees and why he believes having the right people in the room is more important than any speaker lineup. Key insights you'll gain from this conversation: How to create an event focused on attendee connections rather than presenters The power of curating the right group of people through careful vetting Why eliminating speakers, stages and vendors can lead to more valuable outcomes Creative ways to facilitate organic networking and relationship-building The importance of surprise elements and a memorable closing experience Vincent also shares some of the challenges he faced in planning such an unconventional event, including dealing with unexpected setbacks and overcoming his own control-freak tendencies. Whether you're an event planner looking to shake things up or an entrepreneur seeking fresh ideas for community-building, this conversation offers a wealth of inspiration. Vincent's outside-the-box approach demonstrates how rethinking common practices can lead to extraordinary results. "I had this idea for something I've always wanted to do...This was not something that you could just buy a ticket for. They bought a ticket that wasn't inexpensive. They got on a flight, they got hotel rooms, they left their family. They took time away from work to come to something because they believed in me and in a vision that I had." Vincent's passion for creating meaningful connections shines through as he describes the magical moments that unfolded when he brought together the right group of people in the right environment. His story is a testament to the power of trusting your vision and taking calculated risks to bring it to life. Follow Vincent: https://www.facebook.com/vincent.pugliese.16 https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-pugliese https://mymembershipfreedom.com/…

1
Symphony's Secret Weapon: Connection 45:00

לפני 24 ימים45:00

45:00

What happens when a prison music program revolutionizes the symphony experience? Meet Holly Mulcahy, a disruptive force in classical music who's transforming how orchestras compete in the Netflix era. As Concertmaster of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and curator of audience engagement, Holly reveals how breaking down traditional barriers between musicians and audiences creates unforgettable live experiences. In this episode, discover: • How prison performances taught Holly more about music's impact than conservatory training • Creative ways symphonies are competing with modern entertainment options • The art of "breaking the fourth wall" to create genuine audience connections • Why treating concerts like carefully crafted meals leads to deeper engagement • Innovative approaches to make classical music more accessible and meaningful From pairing wines with violin concertos to crafting multi-sensory experiences, Holly shares practical insights for anyone looking to transform traditional events into magnetic gatherings that keep audiences coming back for more. Whether you're an event professional, performing artist, or someone passionate about creating meaningful experiences, this conversation will forever change how you think about live performance and human connection. Connect with Holly: hollymulcahy.com roseofsonora.com artscapacity.org wichitasymphony.org upstage.io…

1
From Monsoons to Millions: How One Producer Saved NYC's Biggest Holiday Market in 6 Weeks 45:49

לפני 4 weeks45:49

45:49

Picture this: You're standing in a torrential downpour in the heart of Bryant Park, with just 42 days to launch New York City's first-ever holiday market. Your client wants custom-built European-style chalets that would take months to manufacture. Oh, and you need 100 Christmas trees... four days before Thanksgiving. Welcome to the world of event planning, where impossible deadlines and mother nature's fury are just another day at the office. In this episode, I sit down with Brooksie Hughes, President and Executive Producer of BAH Productions, who has spent nearly three decades producing events that push the boundaries of what's possible. With clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to major cultural institutions, Brooksie has developed a reputation for turning crisis into opportunity and chaos into magic. In this episode, you'll discover: - Why saying "yes" to impossible challenges can lead to legacy-defining moments - How to maintain your sense of humor when everything is literally underwater - The secret to pivoting when Plan A (and B, and C) falls apart - What it really takes to launch a major market activation in six weeks - Why some of the best solutions come from breaking conventional event planning rules Whether you're an experienced event producer or just starting your journey in the industry, Brooksie's story will inspire you to find joy in the chaos and possibility in every challenge. Listen now to discover how one rainy day in Bryant Park became the starting point for what is now one of New York's most beloved holiday traditions. Connect with Brooksie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooksiehughes/ https://bahproductionsinc.com/…

1
The Hidden Flaws in Event Networking—and How to Fix Them 47:17

לפני 5 weeks47:17

47:17

Ever wonder why those "networking opportunities" at events often feel more awkward than authentic? In this enlightening conversation with professional friend-maker Baily Hancock, we uncover why traditional event networking falls short—and how to transform those moments into genuine connections that last. You'll discover: Why the standard "cocktail hour networking" model fails most participants (especially introverts and neurodivergent attendees) How to create "containers of connection" that make relationship-building natural and comfortable The power of "seeking the overlap" and why it's the secret sauce to meaningful connections Practical strategies to empower natural connectors at your events A revolutionary approach to pre-event and post-event engagement that actually works Bailey shares her fascinating framework of "circles of connection" and reveals why most events are missing crucial opportunities to facilitate authentic relationships. Whether you're an event organizer or participant, you'll gain actionable insights to transform networking from an awkward obligation into an enriching experience. Don't miss Bailey's brilliant suggestion for why we should stop using the term "attendees" and what to say instead. It's a small shift that creates a big mindset change. This conversation is packed with "aha moments" that will forever change how you think about event networking. Plus, we end with an improvisational musical interpretation of the key themes that you won't want to miss! Listen in and discover how to create the kind of meaningful connections that make events truly unforgettable. Find Baily: https://bailyhancock.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bailyhancock/…

1
Ditch the Conference Room: Building Trust Through Zip Lines and Campfires 46:41

לפני 6 weeks46:41

46:41

Picture yourself dangling from a zip line, heart racing, surrounded by fellow entrepreneurs who started as strangers but will end up as lifelong connections. In an era of polished business conferences and luxury retreats, one company dared to strip away the fancy hotels and PowerPoint presentations in favor of bunk beds and trust falls. Adrienne Dorison, co-founder and CEO of Run Like Clockwork, joins us to reveal how Camp Clockwork transformed the traditional business event into a three-day summer camp experience. She shares why pushing entrepreneurs out of their comfort zones - literally and figuratively - led to deeper insights and stronger relationships than any conventional conference could achieve. From concerns about selling an "unprofessional" format to witnessing breakthrough moments on the climbing wall, this episode challenges everything you think you know about business networking and professional development. Reach Adrienne: Website: https://www.runlikeclockwork.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adrienne.dorison Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennedorison/…

1
The Power of Play: How One Coach is Transforming Conference Education Forever 48:11

לפני 8 weeks48:11

48:11

What if the secret to transforming how creators learn about sponsorships isn't another PowerPoint presentation, but a game? In this eye-opening episode, sponsorship coach Justin Moore reveals what seven years of landing brand deals taught him about learning. After generating over $5 million through 500+ successful sponsorships, he spotted a fundamental flaw in traditional conference education. Now, he's making his boldest bet yet—investing $20,000 to reimagine how creators learn by turning his entire conference into a game. You'll discover: • Why traditional conference formats are failing creators • How gamification can triple knowledge retention and engagement • The surprising psychology behind "learning through play" • A behind-the-scenes look at Sponsored Games, the first-ever gamified creator conference • Why some of the best business learning happens outside the classroom Whether you're an event organizer looking to innovate or a creator tired of passive learning experiences, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about professional education. Plus, Justin shares his candid thoughts on risk-taking, event design, and why sometimes you need to blow up the playbook to serve your audience better. Ready to discover how play might be the missing ingredient in your next event? Listen now. Follow Justin here: https://www.sponsormagnet.com/ Learn about this new Book Sponsor Magnet here: https://www.sponsormagnet.com/…

1
The Most Underrated Event Strategy: How Intentional Discomfort Drives 80% Retention Rates 42:19

לפני 9 weeks42:19

42:19

Imagine hosting an event where you ask participants to try on swimsuits together, surf for the first time, or zip-line through a rainforest. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Yet these seemingly uncomfortable moments are exactly what's driving unprecedented client retention rates in the experience economy. In this eye-opening episode, experience curator Heather Wenninger reveals how she transformed from a stay-at-home mom to building multiple six-figure businesses by mastering the art of intentional discomfort. You'll discover why traditional "comfort first" event planning might be killing your retention rates, and how strategic vulnerability creates lasting transformation that keeps clients coming back for more. What you'll learn: • Why pre-event communication is crucial for creating psychological safety • The "one more nudge" principle that transforms hesitation into breakthrough moments • How to design experiences that serve both adventure-seekers and quiet reflectors • The follow-up strategy that turns one-time participants into loyal community members • Why some events generate $100K+ in additional revenue (and others fall flat) Whether you're an event planner, business coach, or community builder, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about creating memorable experiences that drive real results. Perfect for: Event planners, retreat hosts, community builders, business coaches, and anyone interested in creating transformational experiences that drive exceptional retention rates. Follow Heather: https://www.sweetlemonadephotography.com/…

1
Beyond the Introduction: How Professional Emcees Transform Event Experiences 40:44

לפני 10 weeks40:44

40:44

Think professional emcees just introduce speakers and share housekeeping notes? Think again. Discover how the right emcee can turn your standard conference into an unforgettable experience, keep energy levels perfect throughout multi-day events, and seamlessly handle those inevitable behind-the-scenes disasters without your audience ever knowing something went wrong. Join us as Quinn Conyers, award-winning professional emcee and speaker, pulls back the curtain on this misunderstood craft. With her signature high energy and strategic approach, Quinn reveals why treating emcees as strategic partners rather than last-minute additions can be the difference between a good event and an extraordinary one. Whether you're planning your first conference or your fiftieth, this episode will transform how you think about professional emcees and event experiences. Follow Quinn: https://www.quinnconyers.com/ https://www.facebook.com/quinn.conyers https://www.linkedin.com/in/quinnconyers/…

1
Beyond the Dance Floor: How Science and Soundtracks Engineer Unforgettable Experiences 58:03

לפני 11 weeks58:03

58:03

What do DJ booths and neuroscience have in common? According to event industry veteran Will Curran, they're both essential to understanding how to create truly unforgettable experiences. From his early days as a college DJ growing a 5,000+ following on Facebook (when that was huge), Will has cracked the code on how music, energy, and human connection work together. Now, Will reveals the surprising scientific principles behind event energy management and shares a framework that will forever change how you think about crafting memorable experiences. On this episode of the Event Innovator Show, Will joins us to explore the intersection of music psychology, event production, and community building. He shares practical insights on: - The scientific principles behind musical energy management at events - How to create the perfect soundtrack for different event moments - Why most event communities fail (and how to build ones that thrive) - The counter-intuitive approach to scaling events while maintaining quality - The secret to turning one-time attendees into year-round community members Whether you're an event professional looking to level up your experience design or a business leader seeking to build stronger connections with your audience, this episode delivers actionable strategies that blend the art and science of human engagement.…

1
Waves of Change: How the Right Location Creates Transformative Spaces 46:30

לפני 12 weeks46:30

46:30

What if we get lost at sea? What if that's exactly what we need? In a world of constant connectivity and back-to-back Zoom calls, there's a revolutionary movement happening in professional development. Top entrepreneurs and thought leaders are discovering that their biggest breakthroughs don't happen in conference rooms or through online masterminds - they happen when they completely change their environment. Meet Krista Inochovsky, a master of creating transformative experiences in extraordinary locations. From the open seas of the Caribbean to the rolling hills of Tuscany, she's proving that changing our environment can dramatically accelerate personal and professional growth. Her signature Podcasters Cruise and intimate Tuscan villa retreats are redefining how high-achievers learn, connect, and transform. In this episode of the Event Innovator show, you'll learn: • Why location plays a crucial role in creating transformative experiences • How to balance structured learning with organic connection • The power of unplugging in an intentionally curated environment • Secrets to building community before, during, and after destination events • Why some of the most powerful breakthroughs happen when we step out of our normal routines Whether you're an event curator, business leader, or someone seeking to create more impactful experiences, this conversation will change how you think about the spaces where transformation happens. Follow Krista: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/infinitekrista LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristasky/ Website: expandyourlife.net…

1
Event Planning Secrets: How to Create Instagram-Worthy Moments Without Breaking the Bank 47:36

לפני 13 weeks47:36

47:36

Ever wonder how some events create those perfect Instagram moments while others feel completely forgettable? Whether it's the lighting, the atmosphere, or those unexpected delights that make everyone reach for their phones, there's actually a science behind making events share-worthy – and it doesn't require a massive budget. In this episode of The Event Innovator Show, international event planner Valentina Ruffoni reveals her proven strategies for creating magical moments that attendees can't help but share. With over 15 years of experience transforming ordinary events into extraordinary experiences across Europe, Valentina breaks down exactly how to: • Create authentic, share-worthy moments that don't feel forced • Use multisensory elements to enhance the attendee experience • Transform any venue with strategic, budget-friendly touches • Build genuine connections that make events unforgettable • Turn ordinary check-ins into memorable first impressions Whether you're planning corporate gatherings, social events, or conferences, you'll discover practical ways to elevate your events without breaking the bank. Plus, learn the common mistakes even experienced planners make when trying to create Instagram-worthy moments. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable insights you can implement at your very next event.…

1
The Anti-Boring Blueprint: How to Create Event Moments People Actually Remember 40:53

לפני 14 weeks40:53

40:53

Tired of watching your attendees scroll through their phones while your speakers deliver "death by PowerPoint"? In this game-changing episode with Jordan Gill, we're shattering the conventional conference playbook and revealing how to create magnetic moments that keep people present, engaged, and talking about your event for months. You'll discover: • Why the first 60 minutes of your event matters more than your keynote • 3 innovative alternatives to traditional breakout sessions • The psychology behind "peak moments" and how to engineer them • Real examples of events that broke the mold (and doubled their ticket sales) • Simple ways to transform passive listeners into active participants Plus, we're sharing our controversial take on why "professional" doesn't have to mean "boring," and how embracing strategic spontaneity can actually enhance your event's credibility. Whether you're planning your first conference or your fifteenth, this episode will arm you with fresh ideas to transform your next event from a mandatory meeting into an unforgettable experience. Stop running events that feel like business school lectures. Time to create moments that matter. 🎯 Perfect for: Event planners, conference organizers, and anyone tired of seeing their audience reach for their phones every 15 minutes. Subscribe now and join the event innovation revolution! Follow Jordan Gill at systemssavedme.com EventPlanning #ConferenceDesign #ExperienceDesign #EventProfs…

1
The Super Fan Formula: Why Taylor Swift's Playbook Should Be Your Event Strategy 43:42

לפני 15 weeks43:42

43:42

What if your event could generate the same fevered anticipation as a Taylor Swift concert? In this must-listen episode, customer experience expert Brittany Hodak (who's worked with Amazon, Disney, and yes - even Taylor Swift herself) reveals the psychology behind turning ordinary attendees into passionate superfans. You'll discover: • The surprising pre-event strategy that drives more engagement than the event itself • Why fighting phone distraction is the wrong approach (and what to do instead) • The critical 48-hour window that determines if attendees will ever come back • How to create "choose your own adventure" experiences that keep people hooked Plus, Brittany shares an insider story about a 17-year-old Taylor Swift that perfectly illustrates why some events create superfans while others fade into memory. Whether you're running conferences, corporate gatherings, or community events, this episode will transform how you think about audience engagement. Stop settling for polite applause - learn how to create experiences worthy of a standing ovation. Time to level up your event game. Your superfans are waiting. 🎭✨…

1
Dancing, Love Notes & Breakthroughs: Unconventional Event Strategies that Build Community 43:44

לפני 16 weeks43:44

43:44

Picture an event where business metrics meet raw emotion, where CEOs dance between sessions, and where handwritten love notes forge lasting connections. When Swiss-based business mentor Sigrun Gudjonsdottir decided to throw out the traditional conference playbook, she discovered that the most powerful moments aren't always on the agenda. In this eye-opening episode of The Event Innovator Show, Sigrun reveals how embracing the unexpected transformed her client event from a typical business conference into a catalyst for personal breakthroughs and business growth. Join host Phil Mershon as he explores Sigrun's innovative approach to community building, including: Why dancing breaks and round tables create deeper connections than traditional networking How "love notes" give participants tangible takeaways that last long after the event The power of unplanned moments and why every event needs flexibility in its schedule A revolutionary approach to revenue recognition that had participants proudly sharing their success stories Why smaller post-pandemic events might actually lead to better results Whether you're planning an intimate retreat or a large-scale conference, this episode offers fresh perspectives on creating meaningful connections and unforgettable moments that drive both personal transformation and business results. Learn how stepping away from the traditional event formula might be exactly what your community needs to thrive.…

ברוכים הבאים אל Player FM!

Player FM סורק את האינטרנט עבור פודקאסטים באיכות גבוהה בשבילכם כדי שתהנו מהם כרגע. זה יישום הפודקאסט הטוב ביותר והוא עובד על אנדרואיד, iPhone ואינטרנט. הירשמו לסנכרון מנויים במכשירים שונים.