Trade Show Talk Podcast

TSNN
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Marketing
  • Updated Semimonthly

Trade Show News Network is excited for season two of the "Trade Show Talk" podcast, featuring two episodes each month, focusing on topics important to our community. Host Megan Powers leads discussions with trade show and events industry leaders. We have an opportunity to hear from our peers and industry leaders in an intimate and interesting way through this show. As we all navigate the changing times together as a community, this show will give us the insight and tools we each need to succeed.

  1. 9h ago

    Storytelling at Scale: Inside NAB Show with Karen Chupka Storytelling at Scale: Inside NAB Show with Karen Chupka

    In this episode, Trade Show Talk Host Danica Tormohlen explores how Karen Chupka, Executive Vice President of Global Connections and Events at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), reveals how her team is transforming one of the industry's longest-running trade shows into a hub for innovation—where AI, creator economy, and sports media collide—by expanding its narrative beyond conventional broadcasting.   Context: The NAB Show ranked 17th on TSNN's Top 250 list of trade shows in 2025, when more than 54,00 people and 1,146 companies exhibited at that year's event. The 2026 NAB Show, held April 18–22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, welcomed more than 58,000 registered attendees from 146 countries, underscoring its expanding international footprint. Almost one in four participants traveled from outside the U.S. (22%) while 48% were first-time attendees.  The 2026 show featured more than 1,100 exhibitors spread across the equivalent of nearly eight soccer fields, with 132 first-time participants showcasing their innovations. Global brands on the show floor included Sony, Canon, Ross, Blackmagic Design, Adobe, Google Cloud, AT&T, and AWS.   NAB Show attendees now include creators funding their own content, sports teams engaging fans like never before, and corporate brands building in-house studios to tell stories at scale.  Discover how NAB is rebranding to reflect today's media landscape—highlighting tools for everyday storytellers, from social media influencers to news crews—and opening new avenues for audience engagement.   Chupka shares behind-the-scenes strategies that led to a 140% surge in creator attendance, and how AI, data unification, and personalized marketing are revolutionizing event planning and attendee experience.   Chupka emphasizes the importance of innovation, community-building, and leveraging data-driven insights to stay ahead.   Related: The 2026 NAB Show Showcased the Next Chapter of Storytelling with More Content Creators, AI Chatter, and Lots of Sports Media Attendees  Key Topics:  Chupka's transition from CES to NAB and lessons learned about industry transformation  Rebranding NAB to highlight its broader focus beyond traditional broadcasting  The exploding creator economy and new attendee sectors like sports and corporate media  Integrating data, AI, and personalization in event marketing and attendee engagement  Strategies for attracting international attendees and emphasizing community building  The role of technology, content partnerships, and diversity in future event planning  Ongoing industry challenges, including government proposals affecting event security and attendance  Chupka's leadership tips and rapid-fire insights into event experiences and personal favorites  Advocacy and Policy Update with ECA's Tommy Goodwin  Tommy Goodwin, President and CEO of the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), closes the episode with an important advocacy-focused discussion about policy proposals that could negatively affect conference attendance, event participation, and the broader live events ecosystem. The conversation highlights how federal grant restrictions may discourage organizations and individuals from attending conferences, while also creating operational challenges for venues and event organizers.  Goodwin emphasizes these proposals are not just administrative details—they could have real consequences for the health of the events industry, reducing attendance, limiting knowledge-sharing, and weakening the economic impact of face-to-face gatherings. The segment underscores the need for the industry to stay informed, respond through the public comment process, and support efforts that protect the value of in-person events.  ECA is calling for the complete withdrawal of both proposed changes, and they are asking for the industry's help. ECA has provided a template to submit a comment letter to the Office of Management and Budget by July 13 but recommends tailoring and personalizing the letter before submitting. Here's a link to the template and more information.  Related: ECA Sounds Alarm on OMB Proposal Targeting Meetings, Conferences and Event Services  Key Takeaways:  Federal grant proposals could reduce conference attendance and create barriers for event participation  The live events industry depends on strong, accessible in-person gatherings  Advocacy and public comments are essential tools for influencing policy outcomes  Industry stakeholders should stay engaged to protect the future of events  Timestamps:   00:00 - Introduction to Karen Chupka and her industry impact  00:46 - Karen's career evolution from CES to NAB and key learnings  01:37 - Massive growth at the NAB Show and upcoming innovations  02:06 - Navigating media industry transformation and new audience opportunities  03:02 - Lessons from CES that inform NAB strategy  04:20 - Efforts in rebranding NAB beyond traditional broadcasting  05:36 - Expanding storytelling and highlighting new media tools  06:17 - The importance of embracing the creator economy and new sectors  07:11 - Marketing strategies for diverse attendee groups  08:10 - Data unification and AI use to personalize attendee experiences  09:24 - The future of in-house production and creator-led content  10:47 - Building community and engaging international audiences  11:08 - Karen's role, team management, and leadership approach  12:34 - Investment in internal marketing expertise and technology platforms  13:00 - Leveraging behavioral data for better attendee insights  14:34 - Tech stack, dashboards, and AI tools that enhance event planning  15:35 - The significance of clean data and event personalization  16:28 - Creating dashboards for real-time sales and marketing decision-making  17:26 - Tracking and analyzing attendee behavior to optimize experiences  18:42 - Upcoming NAB New York and its focus on live production and creator communities  20:51 - The impact of creator influence on event attendance and content  23:17 - The sports content revolution and athlete branding at NAB  26:27 - Launching creator councils and VIP programs to deepen engagement  29:13 - Strategies for growing the international audience and community  31:03 - The value of community and high-end production tools at NAB  32:22 - Karen's favorite show floor snacks, memorable moments, and guilty pleasures  34:40 - Travel rituals and shoe collections that keep Karen energized  36:24 - Advice to her younger self about self-care and balance  37:04 - Upcoming industry advocacy efforts and government proposals impacting events with Tommy Goodwin  39:01 - How federal grant regulations threaten conference attendance and event services  44:00 - How industry stakeholders can participate in the regulatory comment process  47:32 - Final thoughts on advocacy efforts to safeguard face-to-face events  Guest bio:  Karen Chupka EVP, Global Connections and Events,National Association of Broadcasters       Karen Chupka is a seasoned executive in the exhibition industry whose expertise is in planning large-scale technology events. Chupka joined the National Association of Broadcasters in January 2024. In her role at NAB, she oversees the strategy, growth and execution of NAB Show, helping shape the event as a premier global gathering for the broadcast, media and entertainment industry and strengthening NAB Show as the marketplace for media innovation.  Prior to joining NAB, Chupka spent over two decades at the helm of CES® and was instrumental in making it the global platform for introducing new and innovative technologies.   Chupka has a broad level of experience in both live events and digital. She led a $120 million business and had oversight for sales, marketing, operations, and content development.  She was also responsible for events outside of the U.S. including the launch of CES Asia in Shanghai, China in 2015.   She has served on many boards of various exhibition industry organizations and has received numerous awards for her contributions both to the exhibition and technology industries.  In 2022, she was recognized with an industry "Icon" award by TSNN, Trade Show Network News.  She is a member of IAEE (International Association of Exhibitions and Events).

    49 min

  2. Jun 4

    Leading Finance in Live Events with RX CFO Michele Tiley-Hill

    In this episode, Trade Show Talk host Danica Tormohlen explores how the events industry is adapting to digital transformation, the strategic role of finance within global trade shows, and leadership insights with Michèle Tiley-Hill, CFO of RX, one of the world's largest trade show organizers.   Whether you're a show organizer, a marketing professional, or a business leader, her experience offers valuable perspective on navigating today's complex landscape.  Key Topics:  How RX integrates face-to-face and digital innovations in live events  The evolving role of a CFO in a decentralized, global organization  Strategies for launching new shows and managing risks  Building trust and cultural safety across international teams  The importance of transparency, vulnerability, and celebrating failures  Diversity initiatives and gender equity in finance leadership  Leadership legacy: fostering trust, collaboration, and curiosity   In our monthly advocacy update, Exhibitions & Conference Alliance President and CEO Tommy Goodwin discusses the success of the 2026 Legislative Action Day in Washington, D.C. He highlights the record attendance and the importance of engaging with congressional staff to advocate for the exhibitions industry. Goodwin emphasizes the value of sharing personal stories with lawmakers to raise awareness of the industry's impact. He also shares insights into the unique culture of Capitol Hill and the significance of building relationships with congressional staff.  Timestamps:   00:00 - Introduction to Michele Tiley-Hill, CFO of RX Global  02:14 - Michele's career journey from KPMG to leading global events  06:12 - How the events industry is shifting with digital and data innovation  08:36 - Daily work of a CFO in a multi-country organization  10:06 - Managing variability in trade show revenues and strategic growth  12:32 - Operational innovation and the role of AI in live events  14:40 - Recent wins and lessons learned in post-COVID recovery  17:47 - Embracing failure and the importance of vulnerability in leadership  19:37 - Diversity and gender equity in global finance leadership  22:31 - Building relationships between finance and show leaders  25:51 - Insights from attending flagship shows like Facon and BookCon  28:39 - Planning and risk mitigation for launches and relaunches  31:44 - Leading across cultural and geographic diversity  33:44 - Michele's London-based office environment and hybrid work approach  36:07 - Her legacy at RX and guidance for the next generation of leaders  37:53 - Tips for hiring and building diverse high-performing teams  39:43 - The best career advice Michele has received  40:22 - Alternative careers and passions outside finance  42:10 - How trade shows like World Travel Market inspire industry standards  43:50 - Personal recharge routines and work-life balance  44:53 - Dinner with a leader past or present to seek insights  45:59 - Michele's vision for the future of the exhibitions   46:23 - Introduction to Tommy Goodwin and the Legislative Action Day  46:50 - Tommy discusses the significance of recording in person  47:00 - Record attendance and meetings at the event  47:34 - Highlights of the day and the importance of large group meetings  48:10 - The role of weather and special guests at the event  49:18 - Importance of sharing personal stories with lawmakers  50:19 - The scavenger hunt and its competitive nature  51:29 - Unique aspects of Capitol Hill culture  52:18 - Construction in D.C. and preparations for America's 250th  54:25 - The value of meeting with congressional staff  56:14 - The influence of congressional staff on decision-making  56:45 - Conclusion of the day and social gathering at Bullfeathers  Guest Bio: Michèle Tiley-Hill - Chief Financial Officer, RX             No stranger to entrepreneurial businesses where the pace of change is exceptional, Michèle's experience has been invaluable at RX since she joined as CFO. A seasoned finance executive, Michèle trained at KPMG and developed her financial career in the sports, media and entertainment sectors. Prior to joining RX in 2017, Michèle was Global CFO at MEC (a founding partner of GroupM, now WPP Media, the company's media investment group) where she had also held finance and commercial leadership roles in the EMEA region during her 11 years there.     A qualified chartered accountant, Michèle was attracted to RX by the opportunity to combine the best of face to face with digital and data, something that has benefitted enormously from Michèle's many years of hands-on commercial experience and success in leading financial and commercial operations in decentralized and complex structures. The combination of Michèle's approachability, humility and empathy enables her to build and maintain relationships across our global business, while the real transparency and openness she brings to her leadership style builds trust and confidence in those around her.    With an ability to laugh at herself and show vulnerability, Michèle encourages colleagues to share their views and diverse perspectives and is inspired by those that make a difference. Values that are all-important in her involvement with the RX Global Inclusion Council. Michèle is also executive sponsor to the RX Operations Leadership Team and a member of the RELX Compliance Committee.    Want to know more? Read One to Watch: RX CFO Michèle Tiley-Hill. She shares leadership lessons from the C-suite and 10 ways to inspire a trade show team.

    59 min

  3. May 6

    Navigating New Zealand's B2B & B2C Events Industry with XPO Exhibitions Managing Director Brent Spillane

    In episode 74 of Trade Show Talk, Host Danica Tormohlen explores the New Zealand exhibition industry with Brent Spillane, Managing Director of XPO Exhibitions, the country's largest trade and consumer show organizer. Spillane is a true visionary in the exhibitions industry, with more than 15 years of experience at the helm of XPO, where he has been instrumental in shaping how industries connect, trade, and thrive through live experiences across the Asia-Pacific region.  After a successful corporate career at Allianz Australia, where he rose to General Manager of Allianz Finance, Spillane and his family acquired six trade shows in 2010 when dmg World Media exited New Zealand. Since then, he has carefully navigated XPO through challenges, including the pandemic, and even led a landmark High Court battle to preserve New Zealand's largest exhibition venue, Auckland Showgrounds, from being converted into a film studio.  Under Spillane's leadership, XPO Exhibitions has grown into a highly diversified business, delivering 19 of New Zealand's largest B2B and B2C events across industries like construction, architecture, manufacturing, food production, workplace safety, marine, hospitality, and more. Most recently, XPO announced a joint venture with Hannover Fairs Australia to launch Logistics Automation New Zealand, powered by CeMAT, in November.  In this month's advocacy segment, Tommy Goodwin, President and CEO of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance provides an in-depth overview of what attendees can expect at this year's Legislative Action Day. Get prepared for a day of industry lobbying on Capitol Hill on May 28, 2026 in Washington, DC. Register for Legislative Action Day for free here. Get tips, insights and first-hand accounts from 10 key participants at last year's Legislative Action Day. Listen to Trade Show Talk Episode 62 On Air at Legislative Action Day 2025.  Key Topics in this episode:  Brent Spillane's career transition from finance to exhibitions and the impact of New Zealand's unique market  The strategic growth of XPO Exhibitions through acquisitions, joint ventures, and diversification  The importance of in-house event technology stacks and data control for ROI and efficiency  How his personal legal battle preserved one of New Zealand's key trade fair grounds  Innovative uses of AI and automation to boost visitor engagement and operational efficiency  Synergies between B2B and B2C events and the ecosystem approach  Insights into cross-sector growth, especially in food manufacturing, logistics, and marine  Strategic partnership with Hannover Fairs Australia and implications for global-local collaborations  Brent's leadership inspiration, personal interests, and the future outlook of the industry  Lessons learned from industry advocacy and the upcoming U.S. Capitol Hill lobbying efforts  Timestamps:   00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: Brent Spillane's role in transforming NZ exhibitions   00:47 - Introduction of XPO's growth, industries served, and recent initiatives   01:46 - Brent's journey from corporate finance to leading NZ's largest exhibition company   07:15 - Growth models: acquisitions, organic expansion, and joint ventures   08:18 - Celebrating one show's 70th anniversary and its significance to NZ's marine sector   10:11 - Local market overview and cross-sector opportunities in New Zealand   12:10 - The legal battle to save Auckland's major venue and its industry impact   17:34 - Timeline and lessons from the court case safeguarding NZ's largest venue   20:17 - The integration of B2B and B2C events and ecosystem benefits   22:05 - Synergies in the food industry: from manufacturing to retail and hospitality   25:53 - Building and leveraging the in-house event tech stack for ROI and data ownership   31:07 - Embracing artificial intelligence: AI-driven visitor engagement and outreach   34:29 - The use of outbound AI calls and automation for lead generation and database enrichment   37:33 - Results and lessons from AI application in event promotion   39:56 - The recent joint venture with Hanover Fairs Australia and international collaboration   45:23 - Brent's most memorable recent event and the story behind NZ's Food Show   48:20 - Influencers and mentors: industry leaders who inspire Brent   50:48 - Personal hobbies: sailing, fishing, outdoor sports, and family life   51:30 - Personal attributes: Brent's drive and leadership style   52:27 - Team size and office culture at Expo   53:05 - The importance of face-to-face interaction and office environment   55:06 - Travel tips: hydration and electrolytes for long journeys   66:12 - Preparing for Legislative Action Day: advocacy strategies and webinars   66:43 - Capitol Hill experience: events, meetings, and the importance of advocacy   69:01 - Invitation to join the upcoming Legislative Action Day in Washington, DC   69:34 - Closing remarks and upcoming episodes

    1h 10m

  4. Apr 1

    The Rebranding Journey: From GDC to GDC Festival of Gaming with Informa's Will Wise

    In episode 73 of Trade Show Talk, host Danica Tormohlen explores the transformative GDC Festival of Gaming 2026, highlighting innovative event strategies, sponsorship activations, and industry insights with Will Wise, Vice President of Sales/Partnerships for the Gaming Vertical at Informa Festivals. Discover how the rebranding, global community, and creative activations are shaping the future of gaming events.   In this month's advocacy segment, Tommy Goodwin, President and CEO of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance provides an in-depth update on industry advocacy, government shutdown impacts, and upcoming legislative initiatives affecting trade shows and events. Register for Legislative Action Day for free here.    Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk Podcast  02:10 Overview of GDC Festival of Gaming 2026  04:35 Rebranding GDC: A New Era Begins  09:20 Building a Global Community in Gaming  10:16 Media and Digital Platforms Supporting Engagement  12:04 The Importance of a Strong Brand  14:19 Innovative Sponsorships and Activations  19:06 Utilizing Multiple Venues for a Festival Experience  22:44 Sponsored Sessions: A Key Component of GDC  24:50 Creating Memorable Experiences: Concerts and Awards  27:59 Expanding Audience Ecosystem for Success  29:26 Shifting from Exhibitors to Partners  30:49 Evolving Partnerships in the Event Industry  31:43 The Role of Customer Success Teams  32:35 Measuring Sponsorship Success  34:20 International Participation and Feedback  36:40 Innovating for Future Events  38:40 Success Stories from the Event  39:59 Lessons Learned for Future Events  42:17 Year-Round Engagement Strategies  43:49 Personal Insights and Hobbies  46:54 Looking Ahead to Future Events  47:18 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin  50:00 Government Shutdown Impacts on the Industry  52:17 Legislative Action and Industry Advocacy  55:32 Preparing for Legislative Action Day  Context  This March, the GDC Festival of Gaming took over San Francisco, bringing together attendees from over 85 countries, featuring more than 20,000 attendees, 1100 speakers, 700+ cross-disciplinary sessions, and over 300 brand partners. The event wasn't just a conference—it was a celebration of creativity, technology, and connection. From vibrant activations in the Festival Hall to city-wide celebrations like the Opening Night at Oracle Park and the Developer's Concert, this year's GDC truly redefined what a gaming event could be.   One of the standout moments was GDC Diamond Partner AWS' activation at CityView at Metreon, which buzzed with agentic AI demos, game streaming showcases, and the inspiring AWS Women in Games event, where industry leaders shared their perspectives on innovation and inclusion. The Festival also introduced new networking opportunities like GamePlan and GDC Encounters, fostering thousands of meaningful connections between attendees and sponsors.   And let's not forget the major announcements that made headlines—Microsoft's Project Helix, Google DeepMind's Genie 3, and Valve's Steam Machine Verified program, all of which positioned GDC as a platform for breaking industry news.    Key Takeaways  The rebranding of GDC to the GDC Festival of Gaming reflects industry growth and a focus on community.  Will Wise's consultative approach has transformed partnerships into collaborative experiences.  Innovative sponsorship activations have enriched attendee engagement and showcased the latest in gaming technology.  Resources  Informa Festivals Division   GDC Festival of Gaming 2026   GameDeveloper.com   GDC Vault   Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance  Trade Show News Network  Connect with our guests on LinkedIn  Will Wise  Tommy Goodwin  Danica Tormohlen  Guest Bio: Will Wise  Will Wise is the head of event & media partnerships, business development, growth strategies, sponsorships & activations, content marketing programs, customer success, revenue operations, and delegate relations teams for Informa Festivals' GDC Festival of Gaming, Game Developer (media) and GDC Vault (digital content library). Previously Will was Group VP for the Security, Gaming & Transportation events portfolio at RX Global, Managing Director of the IoT Group at Penton Media, and Senior VP of Sales at UBM Tech for Enterprise IT, Cloud Computing, and Engineering events.  Guest Bio: Tommy Goodwin  Tommy Goodwin is President & CEO for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape.  Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute.   Podcast Host: Danica Tormohlen  An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries.   Tormohlen currently serves as immediate past president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few.

    1h 1m

  5. Mar 2

    At the Helm: dmg events growth playbook with CEO Geoff Dickinson

    Episode 72: At the Helm: dmg events growth playbook with CEO Geoff Dickinson  In this episode of Trade Show Talk, host Danica Tormohlen engages in a comprehensive conversation with Geoff Dickinson, CEO of dmg events. They discuss Jeff's unique journey into the events industry, the impressive growth of dmg events post-COVID, and the importance of investing in the local markets where the company produces exhibitions. Geoff shares insights on creating content-rich events that engage diverse audiences, the significance of partnerships in the industry, and his leadership approach in managing a global team. The conversation also touches on future predictions for the events industry and Geoff's personal hobbies that help him recharge.  In this month's advocacy segment, Tommy Goodwin, Executive Vice President of the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance shares updates on tariffs and regulatory clarity, an early preview of the Legislative Action Day (register for free here), and reflections on the recent announcements that Gary Shapiro and Rip Rippetoe will be retiring in 2026.   Chapters:  00:00 - Introduction: Overview of the episode and guest introductions  02:15 – Geoff Dickinson on Revenue and Growth: Insights into DMG Events' post-COVID recovery  05:07 - Career Journey: Geoff's path from law to leading a global events company  09:16 - Content and Audience Strategy: How DMG doubled revenue through innovation  18:35 - Market Specialization: Deep understanding and sector focus  22:45 - International Expansion: Launching new markets and partnerships  30:15 - Leadership Philosophy: Trust and team management in a global portfolio  46:11 - Transition to Tommy Goodwin: Advocacy and policy updates  49:20 - Legislative Action Day: High participation and impact on Capitol Hill  53:42 - Industry Leadership: Reflections on legacy and collaboration  58:00 - Closing Thoughts: Future outlook and upcoming industry events  Key Takeaways  Geoff Dickinson's journey into the events industry was unconventional, starting from a law degree to becoming a CEO.  DMG Events achieved significant growth post-COVID, focusing on quality over quantity.  Content-rich events are essential for engaging diverse audiences and ensuring their return on investment.  Partnerships with other organizations enhance the reach and impact of events.  Leadership in a global context requires trust in a competent team.  Investing in local markets is crucial for successful event execution.  The importance of understanding audience segmentation for event planning.  Running serves as a mental and physical recharge for Geoff Dickinson.  Collaboration among industry leaders has increased post-COVID, fostering a supportive environment.   Key Topics:  Jeff Dickinson's strategic vision for DMG Events and post-COVID growth  Tommy Goodwin's advocacy efforts and policy updates impacting the industry  The importance of content richness and market specialization  Building trusted teams and leadership through collaboration  Industry partnerships and international expansion strategies  Legislative Action Day and the role of industry advocacy    Connect with Our Guests:  Jeff Dickinson on LinkedIn  Tommy Goodwin on LinkedIn

    56 min

  6. Feb 1

    Ep. 71: SXSW Unplugged with Chief Commercial Officer Peter Lewis

    In this episode of Trade Show Talk, host Danica Tormohlen speaks with Peter Lewis, Chief Commercial Officer of South by Southwest (SXSW). They discuss Peter's journey from an administrative assistant to a key leader in one of the world's most influential cultural gatherings. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities SXSW faces as it prepares for its 40th anniversary, including venue changes, economic impact, brand partnerships, and international expansion. Peter shares insights on building a strong team, creating unique experiences, and the importance of community engagement in the event industry.   In our monthly advocacy update, we talk with Tommy Goodwin, Executive VP for the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance. We discuss the reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, which is crucial for event organizers. The conversation also touches on international travel challenges, including the visa bond program and proposed social media requirements for visa waiver countries. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is taking comments about the social media requirements proposal through February 9. Email CBP here. Registration for ECA's Legislative Action Day is now open, and trade show professionals can register here.    Peter Lewis bio  Peter Lewis serves as Chief Commercial Officer at SXSW, where he leads the commercial strategy and execution across partnerships, customer success, content, communications, sales, marketing, and growth markets. He oversees teams that design and deliver festival experiences, partner programming, brand activations, global sponsorships, and go-to-market operations, ensuring the forward-thinking community that comes to SXSW is deeply engaged and connected. Peter joined SXSW in 2009 and has played a key role in expanding its commercial and creative reach, both in Austin and around the world.  Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk  02:07 Meet Peter Lewis: The Visionary Behind South by Southwest  05:04 Peter's Journey: From Admin to Chief Commercial Officer  07:08 Building a Strong Team for Success  08:18 Exciting Plans for South by Southwest 2026  11:11 Navigating Venue Challenges: A New Era for South by Southwest  14:20 Creating Unique Experiences in Austin  18:12 Economic Impact of South by Southwest  19:21 Brand Partnerships and Activations  22:22 The Evolution of Brand Engagement  24:25 Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation  25:51 International Expansion: South by Southwest Goes Global  28:56 The Secret Sauce of South by Southwest  30:25 The Importance of Community and Connection  32:13 Panel Picker: A Platform for New Voices  34:23 Innovative Sessions and Programming  36:03 The Role of Penske Media Corporation  38:12 Surreal Moments in South by Southwest History  40:13 Unexpected Discoveries and Breakout Bands  43:50 Staying Creative and Avoiding Burnout  45:29 Conclusion and Future Insights  Bio: Tommy Goodwin, Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy has also received several industry awards including: CEO Update/Association Trends: Leading Association Lobbyist (2023) American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): ASAE Fellow (2022) DCA Live: Association Innovation Leader (2022) Trade Show news Network: Industry Support Award (2022) MeetingsNet: Changemaker (2022) Podcast Host: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries.  Tormohlen currently serves as immediate past president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few. Sponsor This episode is brought to you by The Citywide Track powered by TSNN at Connect Spring Marketplace.   Planning citywide events that span multiple venues and thousands of attendees? Connect Spring Marketplace has the solution you've been looking for.  April 14th through 16th at the Kentucky International Convention Center, Connect Spring Marketplace features the exclusive Citywide Track powered by TSNN—where buyers planning true citywide programs meet the suppliers equipped to handle that scale.  This isn't your typical sourcing event. The Citywide Track brings together qualified decision-makers who generate over 1,000 room nights, utilize 100,000+ square feet of space, and have the authority to negotiate partnerships on the spot.  Whether you're planning association conferences, corporate events, or entertainment programs that take over entire destinations, this is where those complex conversations happen face-to-face with the right partners.  Trade Show Talk listeners who qualify for the citywide buyer track get exclusive access with discount code DT1 for 50% off your refundable registration.  Connect Spring Marketplace: Where citywide events find their perfect match.  If you are a supplier interested in learning more about partnering, email:  sales@connectmeetings.com

    58 min
  7. Sustainability in Trade Shows with Informa's Head of Sustainability Ben Wielgus

    Jan 5

    Sustainability in Trade Shows with Informa's Head of Sustainability Ben Wielgus

    In Episode 70 of Trade Show Talk, Host Danica Tormohlen speaks with Ben Welgus, Head of Sustainability at Informa, about the evolving landscape of sustainability in the trade show industry. They discuss the successes and challenges faced in 2025, the launch of the Better Stands initiative, and the goals for 2026, including the importance of achieving net zero emissions. The conversation highlights the significance of sustainability in enhancing business value and the need for industry-wide collaboration to create a positive impact. In our monthly advocacy update, we talk with Tommy Goodwin, Executive VP for the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance. They discuss ECA's policy agenda for 2026, including an update on tariffs, international travel and the new Global Policy Forum planned for May in Washington, D.C.   Key Takeaways  The Faster Forward program aims for zero carbon and zero waste.  Better Stands initiative promotes reusable exhibition stands.  Exhibitors, particularly those outside of the U.S.. are motivated by recognition in sustainability efforts. More than 1,000 exhibitors in Europe have been recognized by the Better Stands initiative.  Net zero goals require significant carbon emission reductions.  Sustainability is becoming embedded in business practices.  Informa has reduced carbon emission by 80% in the last decade.  Natural Products Expo West, winner of the TSNN Sustainability Award in December 2025, exemplifies comprehensive sustainability efforts.  Investing in renewable energy is crucial for sustainability.  Tariffs and international travel remain key policy issues for ECA in 2026.   New Global Policy Forum launches May 29, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Trade Shows  04:06 Reflecting on 2025: Wins and Challenges  05:55 Unpacking the Faster Forward Program  08:00 Looking Ahead: Sustainability Goals for 2026  09:51 The Game-Changer: Better Stands Initiative  15:29 Net Zero Goals: Current Status and Challenges  25:44 Sustainability in Business: Reality vs. Perception  30:48 Celebrating Success: Natural Products Expo West  33:20 Getting to Know Ben Welgus  36:27 Future Trends in Sustainability for 2026  40:26 Tommy Goodwin's Policy Agenda for 2026  45:00 Global Policy Forum and Future Trends    Guest bios Ben Wielgus, Head of Sustainability, Informa plc A 25 year veteran of sustainability in large corporates, Ben Wielgus joined Informa in spring 2016 in the newly created Head of Sustainability role. His briefing: to create a competitive advantage from sustainability, building stronger relationships with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders. In 2023, he was short-listed as Sustainability Leader of the Year in the EDIE awards. Over the last 10 years, FTSE100 member Informa has repeatedly been recognised as one of the most improved businesses in sustainability and is currently listed in the top 1% of sustainable media business according to Dow Jones and MSCI. In 2020, Informa launched its FasterForward sustainability programme setting out an ambitious set of goals to become a zero carbon, zero waste business where sustainability is embedded within each of its products. Informa's multi award-winning Sustainable Event Fundamentals are now being used across more than 500 events globally. Before joining Informa, Ben spent nearly 15 years working as part of KPMG's Sustainability Advisory Group.  He was responsible for leading dozens of engagements working with senior audiences in large, global organisations helping them understand how sustainability can be an asset that returns on the investment in it rather than acts as a cost.  Ben specialises in helping organisations understand how the risks and opportunities from sustainability can affect an organisation's overall strategy.  He works with them to build suitable governance and embed responses to the challenges. About Informa: Informa is a leading business intelligence, academic publishing, knowledge and events business, operating in the Knowledge and Information Economy. It is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a member of the FTSE 100. Tommy Goodwin, Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy has also received several industry awards including: CEO Update/Association Trends: Leading Association Lobbyist (2023) American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): ASAE Fellow (2022) DCA Live: Association Innovation Leader (2022) Trade Show news Network: Industry Support Award (2022) MeetingsNet: Changemaker (2022) Podcast Host Bio: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries.  Tormohlen currently serves as immediate past president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few.

    48 min
  8. Countdown to CES 2026: A Preview with CTA President Kinsey Fabrizio

    12/01/2025

    Countdown to CES 2026: A Preview with CTA President Kinsey Fabrizio

    In the 69th episode of the Trade Show Talk podcast, host Danica Tormohlen interviewed Kinsey Fabrizio, president of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) and producer of the Consumer Electronic Show (CES). They discuss what's new for CES 2026, which is expected to welcome more than 140,000 attendees from 150+ countries to Las Vegas in January.    The 2026 tech extravaganza will debut the CES Foundry focused on AI and quantum technologies, a show sector that will be held at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Fabrizio shared insights from her recent trip to the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong and outlined how CTA is leveraging AI to enhance attendee experiences through the event's mobile app.     Additionally, there's an advocacy update from Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance EVP Tommy Goodwin on the latest government and tariff developments affecting the trade show industry.    This episode is brought to my Trade Show News Network and is sponsored by Marriott.    Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk  01:26 Meet Kinsey Fabrizio: Background and Achievements  02:47 Insights from the UFI Global Congress  05:06 Preview of CES 2026  06:25 Exciting New Features at CES 2026  08:18 The Role of Robotics and Health Tech at CES  12:42 Kinsey's Fabrizio's Journey and Leadership at CTA  22:54 Advocacy and AI in the Tech Industry  30:14 Personal Interests and Hobbies  31:10 Favorite Gadgets and Wishlist  35:27 Travel Tips and Hacks  39:06 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin  39:33 Government Reopening and Tariff Discussions  46:05 Visa Fee and Industry Impact  50:17 Conclusion and Farewell    Guest bio: Kinsey Fabrizio Kinsey Fabrizio is president of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, which represents more than 1,200 consumer technology companies and owns and produces CES® - the most influential tech event in the world. In this role, Fabrizio serves on CTA's Executive board and directs strategy and operations across all business units.  Since joining CTA in 2008, Fabrizio has driven transformation at both CTA and CES. As senior vice president, she oversaw CES conferences and show operations, led an expansion of CES products, and spearheaded a modernization of CTA's membership infrastructure and categories.  Earlier in her career, she drove strategic growth in emerging tech categories. A pioneer in the digital health space, Fabrizio created CTA's Health Division, launched a healthcare provider program for doctors at CES 2015, and debuted CES's first Continuing Medical Education (CME)-accredited conference in 2019. She also spearheaded the Video Division Board's 4K and 8K TV initiatives, founded the Content and Entertainment Council, and launched CTA's Disruptive Innovation Council in 2016 to engage companies with breakthrough technologies and services.  Fabrizio's leadership earned her recognition as one of Washingtonian's Most Powerful Women in 2025 and a Washingtonian Tech Titan in 2024 and 2025. She also received the 2023 Women in CT Legacy Award for her contributions to the consumer technology industry.  Fabrizio is a member of the George Mason University Costello College of Business Dean's Advisory Council and the Washington Economic Club. She holds a BA from George Mason University and an MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She lives in Arlington, VA, with her husband and two children.  Guest bio: Tommy Goodwin Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy has also received several industry awards including: CEO Update/Association Trends: Leading Association Lobbyist (2023) American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): ASAE Fellow (2022) DCA Live: Association Innovation Leader (2022) Trade Show news Network: Industry Support Award (2022) MeetingsNet: Changemaker (2022) Host bio: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries. Tormohlen currently serves as president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few. Keywords: CES, Kinsey Fabrizio, Consumer Technology Association, AI, trade shows, event industry, technology trends, advocacy, digital health, robotics

    52 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
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About

Trade Show News Network is excited for season two of the "Trade Show Talk" podcast, featuring two episodes each month, focusing on topics important to our community. Host Megan Powers leads discussions with trade show and events industry leaders. We have an opportunity to hear from our peers and industry leaders in an intimate and interesting way through this show. As we all navigate the changing times together as a community, this show will give us the insight and tools we each need to succeed.

Information

  • Creator
    TSNN
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    78
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © TSNN 2023
  • Show Website
    Trade Show Talk Podcast

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