The Event Innovator Show with Phil Mershon

Phil Mershon
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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.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Amplifying Attendee Voices: How Emcees Ensure Events Serve the Audience with Clare Forestier

    Have you ever considered the profound impact an emcee can have on the success of an event? In this episode of the Event Innovator Show, I sit down with Claire Forestier, a seasoned event emcee and attendee advocate, to explore the art of creating truly engaging experiences that resonate with audiences. The Power of Attendee AdvocacyClaire shares her journey from journalism to event hosting, revealing: Why understanding attendee motivations is crucial for event successHow to shift from a client-centric to an audience-first approachThe importance of baking attendee experience into event planning from the start Practical Strategies for EngagementDiscover innovative approaches to event design, including: Reimagining traditional session formats for maximum impactCreating opportunities for meaningful audience participationLeveraging technology to capture and address attendee concerns in real-time Navigating Challenging AudiencesLearn how to turn reluctant attendees into enthusiastic participants by: Acknowledging and addressing audience concerns openlyCrafting experiences that cater to diverse attendee needsEncouraging leadership to actively participate in engagement activities Harnessing the Power of Your Event TeamClaire emphasizes the importance of: Tapping into the collective expertise of your event suppliersBringing emcees and key partners into the planning process earlyViewing your emcee as a strategic partner rather than just talent Throughout our conversation, Claire challenges event organizers to rethink their approach to audience engagement, offering practical advice for creating events that truly resonate with attendees. Her insights provide a fresh perspective on the role of emcees as attendee advocates and partners in event success. Whether you're planning your first event or looking to revitalize a long-standing conference, this episode offers valuable strategies for creating experiences that leave a lasting impact on your audience and drive real results for your organization. Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to event planning and create experiences that truly connect with your audience? Tune in to discover how embracing attendee advocacy can transform your events and leave a lasting impression on your community.

    48 min

  2. 7 OCT

    From Tornado to Triumph: How Teamwork Saved a Major Golf Tournament with Ari Gross and Dusty Buell

    Have you ever wondered how a community comes together in the face of disaster to save a beloved event? In this episode of the Event Innovator Show, I sit down with Dusty Buell, leader of the Wichita Open, and Ari Gross from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, to explore the incredible story of resilience, teamwork, and innovation that unfolded when nature threatened to derail one of Wichita's most anticipated annual gatherings. Here are some of the things we discussed, including some unexpected insights into Taylor Swift's prowess as a marketer: The Power of Relationships in Crisis ManagementWhy 70% of attendees come for networking, not golfThe importance of personalized interactions with 225 sponsorsHow a tight-knit community became the event's saving grace Innovative Approaches to Event PlanningPartnering with local colleges for cutting-edge productionCreating a women's leadership breakfast that outgrew its venue in just two yearsAdapting hospitality areas to prioritize relationship-building over golf-watching Lessons in Resilience from Unexpected TeachersWhat Taylor Swift's approach to fan engagement can teach event organizersThe unexpected benefits of crisis in fostering team cohesionWhy attitude and grace under pressure are crucial for success Throughout our conversation, Dusty and Ari share candid reflections on the moments that tested their resolve and the surprising opportunities that emerged from chaos. Their story is a testament to the power of community, the importance of flexibility in event planning, and the unexpected ways in which challenges can strengthen both personal and professional relationships. Whether you're an event organizer facing your own crisis or simply looking to build a more resilient approach to your work, this episode offers invaluable lessons on the power of teamwork, positive attitude, and community support in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Are you ready to be inspired by a tale of triumph against the odds? Tune in to discover how the Wichita Open not only survived but thrived in the face of disaster, and learn how you can apply these lessons to your own events and challenges.

    47 min

  3. 30 SEPT

    Supercharge Your Event With a Professional Content Weaver with Sarah Michel

    Have you ever wondered how to create truly meaningful connections at events, beyond the superficial exchange of business cards? In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Michel, Vice President of Professional Connexity at Velvet Chainsaw, to explore the art of fostering genuine relationships and community at conferences and gatherings. Reimagining the Welcome ExperienceWhy first impressions matter more than you thinkInnovative strategies for making solo attendees and first-timers feel instantly at homeThe power of recruiting an "army of connectors" to facilitate meaningful interactions The Role of MCs in Building CommunitySarah reveals her approach as a "content weaver," explaining how: MCs can set the tone for genuine connection from the moment attendees enter the roomSimple techniques like call-and-response can transform passive audiences into active participantsThoughtful facilitation can bridge the gap between speakers and attendees, enhancing content retention Beyond the General SessionLearn why Sarah believes concurrent sessions are the untapped goldmine for networking, and how to: Train speakers to facilitate peer-to-peer interactionsDesign education sessions that foster connection without sacrificing contentCreate opportunities for meaningful dialogue throughout the event Throughout our conversation, Sarah challenges us to rethink our approach to event design, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in creating spaces and moments for true connection. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on how to transform events from mere information exchanges to catalysts for community building and personal growth. Whether you're planning your first gathering or looking to revitalize a long-standing conference, this episode provides actionable strategies to create events that resonate deeply with attendees and foster lasting relationships. Are you ready to move beyond transactional networking and create experiences that truly bring people together? Tune in to discover how focusing on "connexity" can transform your events and leave a lasting impact on your community.

    45 min

  4. 23 SEPT

    Audience First: Why Your Event Vision Might Be Missing the Mark with Liz Caruso

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to create truly impactful events that resonate with your audience and drive real results? In this episode, I sit down with Liz Caruso, CEO of Techsytalk, to explore the art and science of strategic event planning. Liz shares her journey from counseling to event planning, revealing how her unique background shapes her approach to understanding client needs and crafting memorable experiences. Beyond the Basics: Rethinking Event StrategyWe dive into: Why traditional event models fail to adequately address customer needswThe importance of aligning events with long-term business goalsHow to create experiences that foster genuine community and transformation "Events can't just be events. They have to tie into something bigger," Liz emphasizes. Crafting Experiences That MatterDiscover innovative approaches to event design, including: Reimagining venue choices for deeper engagementBalancing content delivery with experiential learningCreating space for meaningful connections between attendees The Power of Guided ReflectionLearn why Liz believes in dedicating time for attendees to process and apply what they've learned, and how this simple practice can dramatically increase the impact of your event. Navigating Client RelationshipsLiz offers valuable insights on: Asking the right questions to uncover a client's true needsWhen to say "no" to protect both your reputation and the client's investmentStrategies for guiding clients towards more effective event concepts Throughout our conversation, Liz challenges us to think beyond logistics and focus on creating transformative experiences that deliver real value to attendees and organizers alike. Whether you're planning your first event or looking to elevate your existing strategy, this episode provides a fresh perspective on what it means to create truly impactful gatherings in today's rapidly evolving landscape. Are you ready to rethink your approach to events and create experiences that truly resonate with your audience? Tune in to discover how strategic thinking and a focus on transformation can take your events to the next level. Contact Liz:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkingevents/ Techsytalk: https://techsytalk.com/eventplanning/

    44 min

  5. 18 SEPT

    Empathy and Honesty: The Secret Ingredients for Unforgettable Events with Gabriella Robuccio

    Have you ever considered how the relationships behind the scenes can make or break your event? In this episode, I sit down with Gabriella Robuccio, founder of Pro Event Tips, to explore the often-overlooked world of relationship management in event planning. From World Cup to Wisdom: Lessons in Event LeadershipGabriella shares her journey from managing ESPN's coverage of the 2014 World Cup to becoming a sought-after consultant on event team dynamics. We discuss: The critical importance of aligning expectations from day oneWhy communication strategies must be tailored to different stakeholdersHow misunderstandings can derail even the most meticulously planned events Mapping Your Stakeholders for SuccessDiscover Gabriella's innovative approach to stakeholder management: The power of creating visual maps to identify key players and their influenceStrategies for prioritizing communication and resources effectivelyWhy understanding your stakeholders' needs is crucial for conflict prevention The Two-Quadrant ApproachLearn about Gabriella's method for categorizing stakeholders and how it can streamline your event planning process. Conflict Resolution: Your Secret WeaponWe delve into the art of handling disagreements gracefully: Why emotional intelligence is more crucial than ever in the age of AIPractical techniques for de-escalating tense situations on-siteThe unexpected benefits of embracing conflict as a growth opportunity The Power of "Tell Me More"Explore how this simple phrase can buy you precious time and insight during high-pressure moments. Throughout our conversation, Gabriella offers a wealth of actionable advice for event professionals looking to elevate their leadership skills and create more harmonious team dynamics. Whether you're planning your first event or seeking to refine your approach after years in the industry, this episode provides valuable strategies for building stronger relationships and delivering exceptional experiences. Psychological Safety: The Foundation of Healthy Stakeholder CommunicationConflict prevention isn’t just about processes and checklists, it starts with creating an environment where your team feels safe to speak up. When people know their ideas and concerns will be received respectfully, you prevent misunderstandings from festering into larger issues. I explore this more in Psychological Safety and Full Out: Keys to Broadway-Inspired Event Excellence. Just like a Broadway ensemble needs both safety and energy to thrive, event teams perform at their best when they feel secure enough to share openly while still bringing their full selves to the task at hand. Turning Setbacks into Success StoriesEven with the best communication plans, things will go wrong. A sponsor misinterprets a promise, a vendor misses a deadline, or a surprise storm threatens your outdoor event. How you respond in those moments can either fracture relationships or strengthen them. In The Most Underrated Skill in Event Production: How One Producer Turned a Monsoon into Magic, I share how reframing chaos into opportunity not only salvaged an event but created a lasting story of resilience. The same principle applies to stakeholder relationships: if you can transform conflict

    47 min

  6. 2 SEPT

    Event Technology Elevates Art Experiences From Click to Curtain Call with Drew McManus

    Have you ever wondered how technology can dramatically impact the event experience, from the moment someone discovers your event to long after they've left the venue? In this episode, I sit down with Drew McManus, CEO of Upstage Technologies, to explore the intricate world of event technology and its profound effect on attendee satisfaction. The Journey from Tuba to TechDrew's fascinating background as a tuba performance major turned arts consultant and technology expert provides a unique perspective on the challenges facing event organizers today. We discuss: The evolving landscape of competition in the events industryHow arts organizations can learn from commercial ticketing giantsThe importance of meeting modern user expectations in the digital age Crafting a Seamless User ExperienceDrew shares invaluable insights on creating a frictionless ticket-buying process, including: The critical importance of structured data for search engine visibilityStrategies for optimizing landing pages and driving conversionsInnovative approaches to seat selection that boost buyer confidence The Two-Email ApproachDiscover why Drew's company sends a minimum of two emails post-purchase and how this strategy enhances the customer experience. Beyond the Purchase: Nurturing Attendee EngagementWe explore often-overlooked opportunities for event organizers to build excitement and prepare attendees, such as: Tailored communication strategies for first-time vs. returning attendeesThe power of day-of-event remindersLeveraging data to measure and improve customer satisfaction The "Confetti Boom" EffectLearn about an unexpected design element that significantly increases post-purchase happiness and its potential impact on long-term attendee loyalty. Throughout our conversation, Drew offers a wealth of actionable insights for event organizers looking to elevate their ticketing and registration processes. Whether you're running a small local gathering or a large-scale conference, this episode provides valuable strategies for creating memorable experiences from the very first click. Are you ready to harness the power of technology to transform your events? Tune in to discover how small changes in your digital approach can lead to big improvements in attendee satisfaction and loyalty. Contact DrewLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/upstagedrew/ Website:: https://upstagecrm.io/

    44 min

  7. 26 AUG

    Superheroes of the Event World: Assemble Your Justice League with Nick Borelli

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to create truly memorable events that leave a lasting impact? In this episode of the Event Innovator Show, I sit down with Nick Borelli, a seasoned event strategist with a unique perspective shaped by his lifelong passion for comic books and storytelling. Embracing Your Unique SuperpowersDiscover why differentiation is crucial in today's event landscape and how to: Identify your distinctive strengths and perspectivesLeverage your passions to fuel innovationCreate events that reflect your authentic vision Assembling Your Justice LeagueLearn the art of building a dream team that complements your skills: The importance of diverse perspectives in event designHow to foster a culture of empowerment and collaborationStrategies for attracting talent aligned with your mission Just like the super heroes, Nick stresses that we shouldn't be afraid to do unconventional things like Adrienne Dorison did by having a summer camp experience instead of a traditional conference. Celebrating Your Event VictoriesNick introduces the concept of "Flash Day" for event organizers: Why acknowledging successes is crucial for team moraleCreating meaningful KPIs beyond business metricsCultivating a culture that values impact and celebration Throughout our conversation, Nick weaves in fascinating parallels between the world of superheroes and event planning, offering fresh perspectives on leadership, risk-taking, and mission-driven event creation. Whether you're planning your first event or looking to revitalize a long-standing gathering, this episode provides actionable insights to help you tap into your unique strengths and create experiences that truly resonate with your audience. Are you ready to unleash your inner event superhero? Tune in to discover how embracing your authentic self can transform your events and leave a lasting impact on your community. Find Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickborelli/

    46 min

  8. 19 AUG

    Crafting Unforgettable Experiences: Joy is Your New Metric with Tahira Endean

    Have you ever wondered how to create events that leave attendees feeling energized, connected, and inspired? In this episode, I sit down with Tahira Endean, head of programming for IMEX and author of "Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity, and Trust," to explore the transformative power of intentional event design. Redefining Success: Why Joy Matters in EventsHow focusing on attendee experiences can drive retention and word-of-mouth marketingThe ripple effects of joyful events on learning, connection, and business outcomesStrategies for measuring and maximizing joy throughout the event lifecycleNOTE: This conversation reminded me of David Adler's new metric: Conversations or connections. Creating Moments of MagicDiscover how Tahira and her team craft unforgettable experiences at IMAX, including: Innovative welcome experiences that set the tone for connectionSurprising activations that spark curiosity and delightThoughtful spaces designed for various attendee needs, from quiet reflection to energizing interactions The Power of Saying "Yes"Tahira shares a fascinating story about bringing circus performers into event spaces, illustrating how pushing boundaries and embracing creativity can lead to truly memorable moments. Designing for Human ConnectionWe explore the importance of: Understanding your audience's unique needs and desiresCreating psychological safety from the moment of registrationFacilitating meaningful interactions between attendees, even in large-scale events Beyond the Event: Nurturing Year-Round EngagementLearn strategies for keeping the event spirit alive between gatherings, without overwhelming your audience. Embracing Authenticity and VulnerabilityTahira discusses the impact of incorporating "tough talks" on sensitive topics at IMAX, highlighting the power of creating space for genuine human experiences within professional settings. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale conference, this conversation offers valuable insights into creating events that resonate deeply with attendees. Tahira's approach reminds us that when we prioritize human connection and meaningful experiences, we create ripples of positive impact that extend far beyond the event itself. Are you ready to rethink your event strategy and create gatherings that truly matter? Tune in to discover how focusing on joy can transform your events and your attendees' lives. Contact TahiraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahira-endean-msc-citp-cmp-ced-918a868/ Website: https://intentionaleventdesign.ca/

    44 min
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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.

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