The Events Insight

Jack Saward & Karen Edwards
  • 5.0 (24)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED FORTNIGHTLY

Welcome to The Events Insight, created to entertain, enlighten and inspire anyone involved in or thinking of joining our exciting and diverse events industry. We bring you illuminating tales from some amazing people in a vast array of roles and from all across the globe. Each week we chat to a different guest and share their stories with you; how and why they got into events, what they’ve learned on the way and why they’re still here!

  1. Did you have a curry last night love? - With Matt Clarke

    1 HR AGO

    Did you have a curry last night love? - With Matt Clarke

    Send a text This week on The Events Insight, Jack and Karen are joined by Matt Clarke, a man whose career can only be described as truly eventful. From taking a temporary three-month role at Silverstone in 1995… to taking another temporary three-month role there in 2025, Matt’s journey spans three decades at the heart of global sport and live events. In between, he’s worked across permanent, temporary and contract roles, seamlessly moving between them, while playing an integral part in delivering some of the world’s biggest sporting moments. We’re talking Commonwealth Games, Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups, the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, and Formula One across the UK, Australia, South Africa and the Middle East. Matt’s philosophy? Work hard, play hard. Let your actions and achievements speak for you, you don’t need to tell everyone you’re the boss. And when someone like Mick Wright at World Rugby says, “What, ‘THE’ Matt Clarke?” , you know you’ve built a reputation that travels. Who knows where he’ll go next? Tune in as we explore a 30-year career built on adaptability, delivery at the highest level, and a relentless passion for live events. See more about our Season Sponsor – Electric Cat   https://www.electriccat.co/   Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Church House Westminster   https://churchhouseconf.co.uk/   Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the The Lewis Foundation   https://www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk/   Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;   https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/   Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/track/zoo/clarity  License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    57 min
  2. You don’t need to know how to make the sausage - With Adrienne Fitzgerald

    4 MAR

    You don’t need to know how to make the sausage - With Adrienne Fitzgerald

    Send a text In the first episode of Season 16 Karen and Jack chat to the rather fabulous Adrienne Fitzgerald.  An energetic, focussed, determined Strategic Account Manager for CORT Events.   With a degree in fabrics, listen in and experience her journey from fashion to furniture.   In her current role, Adrienne’s responsibilities include managing the Midwest territory, Exhibit House programming, General Contractor partnerships and Large Corporate events for Gartner, Service NOW and TwitchCON.  Her role is all about building and understanding client relationships, and developing lasting partnerships.   Adrienne has been in the event industry for over 20+ years, prior to joining CORT in 2017 she was managing major Golf industry events and working directly with the USGA and PGA of America.   Adrienne strongly believes in the value of networking - if you invest in these relationships, you will have a strong dependable community.  She is on the Board of Women in Experiential and Midwest Chapter of IAEE.  She also supports the EDPA Midwest and Upper Midwest Chapters.     Adrienne is an avid snow skier, learned to wake surf when she turned 50 and is a cardio junkie working out 5 days a week.   Adrienne currently lives in Chicago, IL.   See more about our Season Sponsor – Electric Cat   https://www.electriccat.co/   Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Church House Westminster   https://churchhouseconf.co.uk/   Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the The Lewis Foundation   https://www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk/   Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;   https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/   Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/track/zoo/clarity  License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    49 min
  3. The Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 15

    30/09/2025

    The Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 15

    Send a text Another season already? How can that be? Season 15 of The Events Insight Podcast has been another truly fantastic and inspiring journey, with guests from every corner of the events spectrum. For this special wrap-up episode, Jack and Karen are joined by two brilliant industry professionals, and loyal listeners Kirsty Goddard and James Molkie, who bring their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the conversation. Kirsty has over 20 years’ experience in marketing, comms, and events, and is renowned for helping businesses uncover their true goals and communicate their unique personality. James is a Creative & Design Director who uses design thinking to solve complex business problems and craft meaningful experiences. Together, they dive deep into Season 15, reflecting on our six incredible guests, sharing their biggest takeaways, and highlighting the insights that resonated most. Expect inspiration, behind-the-scenes reflections, and maybe even a few surprises as we close the chapter on another fantastic season. Tune in now for a lively discussion and a final look back before we step into Season 16! Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;   www.theeventsinsight.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/ www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham  via; https://www.thenec.co.uk Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via; https://wavecast.io Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ; https://mommysboy.co.uk Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following; https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/ Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    1h 4m
  4. "Go Ducks!" and Doing the Impossible - With Sarah Bennett

    23/09/2025

    "Go Ducks!" and Doing the Impossible - With Sarah Bennett

    Send a text In this episode, Jack and Karen catch up with Sarah Bennett, a California-born event professional whose career has come full circle, back to where it all began: with the Anaheim Ducks. From her first internship with the hockey club to leading event strategy across the sports, tech, entertainment, and non-profit sectors, Sarah has spent over 15 years mastering the art of delivering unforgettable experiences. Her journey includes roles with the San Diego Padres, the Olympic Water Polo Team, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Spectrum Enterprise. Now Senior Manager of Signature Events and Projects for the Anaheim Ducks, Sarah reflects on what it means to “do the impossible” in events and how a positive mindset, patience, and strong planning can make almost anything happen. With a philosophy rooted in collaboration and creativity, Sarah proves that no matter the sector, the magic lies in the details. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;   www.theeventsinsight.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/ www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham  via; https://www.thenec.co.uk Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via; https://wavecast.io Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ; https://mommysboy.co.uk Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following; https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/ Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    1h 9m
  5. Always Putting Security and Safety First - With Ivan Mariacher

    16/09/2025

    Always Putting Security and Safety First - With Ivan Mariacher

    Send a text This week, Jack and Karen speak with Ivan Mariacher, Managing Director of TROJAN SECURITY, a leader who has built his career on protecting people, spaces, and experiences. Ivan’s journey began at the frontline of London’s most high-risk venues back in 2004, where he tackled gang-related violence, drug issues, and public safety challenges head-on. Today, he leads a professional team delivering everything from crowd management to close protection at major events and venues, including the iconic Troxy and the London Stadium. With qualifications in IOSH Managing Crowd Safely and years of high-pressure response coordination, Ivan shares why safety is never an afterthought and how the best security work often goes unnoticed. Expect a behind-the-scenes look into the real-world pressures of live event security and the mindset it takes to keep everyone safe. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;   www.theeventsinsight.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/ www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham  via; https://www.thenec.co.uk Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via; https://wavecast.io Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ; https://mommysboy.co.uk Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following; https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/ Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    1 hr
  6. Helping Create Momentum Every Day - With Richard Smith

    09/09/2025

    Helping Create Momentum Every Day - With Richard Smith

    Send a text In this episode, Jack and Karen chat with Richard Smith, a passionate events professional whose journey started with a defining moment on a balcony overlooking Hall 3 at Birmingham’s ICC. Now Chief Commercial Officer at Wyboston Lakes Resort, Richard leads the commercial strategy across a diverse 400-acre site, driving growth across training venues, conference spaces, and serviced offices. With past roles at Compass Group, Yarnfield Park, and nearly a decade at the NEC Group, Richard brings a deep understanding of what makes venues , and people thrive. He shares insights on leadership, venue strategy, and why creating momentum (for yourself and others) is the key to long-term success in this fast-paced industry. From quiet moments of clarity to boardroom decision-making, Richard’s story is one of purpose, progress, and people-first thinking. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;   www.theeventsinsight.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/ www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham  via; https://www.thenec.co.uk Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via; https://wavecast.io Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ; https://mommysboy.co.uk Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following; https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/ Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    1h 1m
  7. Always Say Yes, You Never Know Where It’ll Take You - With Sarah Slater

    02/09/2025

    Always Say Yes, You Never Know Where It’ll Take You - With Sarah Slater

    Send a text This week, Jack and Karen welcome Sarah Slater, a true force in the live entertainment industry and a champion of saying yes to unexpected opportunities. Now leading the Music & Festivals division at Ticketmaster UK, Sarah’s career has taken her from production management in outreach programmes to senior roles in ticketing and e-commerce. With over 15 years of experience, she’s built a reputation for trusted leadership, strategic growth, and solid relationships with some of the UK’s biggest promoters and event organisers. Sarah shares her winding journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why she swears by the mantra: “Always make sure you’re doing a good job — you never know who’s watching!” If you’re looking for inspiration, career insights, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story from the world of live events, this one’s for you. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;   www.theeventsinsight.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/ www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham  via; https://www.thenec.co.uk Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via; https://wavecast.io Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ; https://mommysboy.co.uk Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following; https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/ Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    1 hr
  8. Bringing the Happy Every Day - With Matt Turner

    26/08/2025

    Bringing the Happy Every Day - With Matt Turner

    Send a text In this episode, Jack and Karen are joined by Matt Turner, founder of Clownfish Events and self-declared Head of Team Flourishment, for an energising conversation about culture, creativity, and what it takes to build a workplace people actually love. From launching a DJ business at 18 with a shed full of kit and his dad’s Toyota Previa, to winning The Sunday Times Best Place to Work 2025, Matt shares how Clownfish has grown into a standout name in the corporate events space. But success here isn’t just about the events. It’s about people. Matt’s focus on employee wellbeing, bold leadership, and doing things with heart (and fun!) has set a new benchmark for the industry, and he’s just getting started. Expect inspiration, laughs, and a reminder that happiness and high performance aren’t mutually exclusive. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;   www.theeventsinsight.com/ www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/ www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham  via; https://www.thenec.co.uk Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via; https://wavecast.io Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ; https://mommysboy.co.uk Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following; https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/ Music Credits go to; Artist: Cathrine Rannus Title: The Events Insight Theme Music Music from #Uppbeat: Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H Fly Away - Mountaineer https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW Clarity - Zoo https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

    1h 1m
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About

Welcome to The Events Insight, created to entertain, enlighten and inspire anyone involved in or thinking of joining our exciting and diverse events industry. We bring you illuminating tales from some amazing people in a vast array of roles and from all across the globe. Each week we chat to a different guest and share their stories with you; how and why they got into events, what they’ve learned on the way and why they’re still here!

Information

  • Creator
    Jack Saward & Karen Edwards
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    111
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Events Insight
  • Show Website
    The Events Insight