BEATS WORKING: Winning The Game of Events

WORKP2P

Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where party people Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.

  1. 5D AGO

    Two Hours, Big Impact: Event-Pro Tips for Small Gatherings

    What happens when two event pros put Nick Gray’s "The 2-Hour Cocktail Party" to the test? Alysse and Libby break down the simple systems that make small gatherings shine: smart invites and day-of reminders, better name tags (that don’t ruin your outfit), how to handle the early birds with kindness, inclusive drink setups for sober and sober-curious guests, and the art of a clear end time (yes, even cueing “Closing Time” when it’s time to go). Fear no-shows? You’re not alone — and the hosts share practical moves to fill the room and keep the vibe high.   Takeaways  Send multiple reminders — especially a same-day note with the key info up top.    Name tags help strangers connect, but choose materials that won’t damage clothing.    Greet early arrivers with warmth and a tiny job — instant belonging, zero awkwardness.    Make drinks inclusive: offer thoughtful zero-proof options alongside the basics.    Announce a clear end time; a ten-minute heads-up + a friendly close keeps it classy (or just play “Closing Time”).    Timestamps:   [01:06] Fear of hosting: the #1 worry — “what if no one shows?” and how to counter it.    [06:06] Invites & reminders: how many to send and what to put first.    [08:06] Name tags do’s & don’ts (and when to skip them).    [11:00] Early arrivers: make them feel seen — give a role, not a circle of strangers.    [13:01] Inclusive beverages: zero-proof setups that actually feel good.    [14:22] Ending on time: announcements, cues… and “Closing Time.”   Resources & Links:  -Nick Gray: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram  -Book: The 2-Hour Cocktail Party  -Extras: Free Party Checklist  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    31 min

  2. NOV 3

    How to Survive (and Enjoy) Holiday Parties — BEATS WORKING Style

    Whether it’s sweet potatoes gone rogue or a Buzz Lightyear scaling the stage, the Fun Table crew (Libby Sundgren, Alysse Bryson, Kristin Graham, Dele Downs Kooley and Amy Liz Harrison) unwrap the messy magic of holiday gatherings. From stocking traditions and grief rituals to ditching gifts in favor of gratitude and connection, this episode celebrates the power of togetherness — sparkly elf glasses and all.  Takeaways:   Every gathering tells a story — embrace the unplanned moments that become tradition.   Gratitude bowls and “thankful cards” can transform any table into a connection circle.   Experiences often outshine gifts; the best memories don’t come in boxes.   Honoring multiple cultures and faiths makes celebrations richer and more inclusive.   The true gift of the holidays? Showing up — messy, mismatched and present.   Timestamps:   01:25 — Welcome to The Fun Table: Holiday gatherings are both art and adventure.   04:01 — The Buzz Lightyear story that stole Christmas Eve.   07:20 — Dele’s legendary sweet potato Thanksgiving moment.   10:12 — Finding joy through grief and gratitude.   16:15 — The crew ditches gifts for experiences.   20:09 — Stocking stuffers, olives and depression-era traditions.   24:03 — Blending faiths and cultural celebrations with grace.   28:30 — “Come as you are” holiday hosting and open-house joy.   Resources & Links:  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    33 min

  3. OCT 27

    A Decade of The Residency: Hip-Hop, Youth Power, and Event Magic in Seattle

    Ten years. Hundreds of young artists. And a community that shows up. Executive Director Olisa Enrico joins hosts Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren with youth artists Maia Gaiia and Sonatta to unpack The Residency’s journey from a two-week summer intensive partnering with MoPOP/Arts Corps and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis to a year-round 501(c)(3) that serves 300–400 youth annually — plus the capital-campaign dream of a permanent home. We talk stage presence, business skills, community  and what it means to throw down for a decade of impact in Seattle.  Takeaways:  The Residency grew from a 2-week program to a 4-week intensive with 45 artists, then expanded year-round.  In 2020, The Residency became an independent 501(c)(3) and rapidly pivoted to online programming to keep community connected.  Today the org serves ~300–400 youth annually across intensives, workshops, performance opps, and leadership programs.  Across ten years, ~400–500 unduplicated young people have come through the program.  “Who controls the narrative, controls the world” — youth voice and community collaboration sit at the center of the mission.  Timestamps:   [02:20] Meet Executive Director Olisa Enrico; introducing youth artists Maia Gaia & Sonatta.   [04:39] Origin story: MoPOP/Arts Corps + Macklemore & Ryan Lewis → from 2 to 4 weeks.   [06:07] Becoming a 501(c)(3) in 2020 and the Zoom-era pivot.   [07:42] Scale today: 300–400 youth/year; gateway via Summer Intensive.   [22:23] Sankofa: looking back to move forward; why narrative control matters.   [34:35] How to support + Nov. 2025 10-year celebration invite; tickets at theresidencyseattle.org.   Resources & Links:  -The Residency: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook  -Event: An Evening with The Residency: Celebrating 10 Years   -Olisa Enrico: LinkedIn  -Maia Gaiia: LinkedIn, Instagram, Depop  -Sonatta: Instagram  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    36 min

  4. OCT 20

    Turning Bites into Bonds: How Culinary Tours Build Stronger Teams

    Chef-guided food tours hit differently. Founder Liz Philpot of Eat Seattle Tours shares how movement, tasting and chef stories transform groups from strangers to teammates — especially across Pike Place Market and Seattle Center. We dig into vendor partnerships, designing “fast-casual” tour flows, the reality of on-the-fly pivots (yes, even banana-to-the-face stories) and why chef guides create the most authentic conversations.  Key Takeaways:  •Chef-led = deeper connection: movement + tasting + real industry stories create a safe space for introverts and extroverts.  •Tour design matters: fast-paced “market tour” vs. more seated “restaurant tour” experiences.  •Respect the vendors: diversify routes, keep a lighter footprint, and spread the love across the market.  •Be ready to improvise: closures, crowds and curveballs demand calm, chef-style problem solving (“you have nine lives”).  •Add-ons extend connection: optional cider flights turn learning walks into linger-worthy hangs.  Timestamps:   [03:16] – Food tours as a safe, social container for teams  [04:24] – Why chef-guided tours land differently (authenticity > performance)  [06:31] – Seattle’s “claim to fame” dish and chef-lens storytelling  [12:33] – Market evolution, Aquarium addition, and guest comms (parking!)  [16:48 – “Nine lives” rule: handling vendor closures and surprises  [21:11 – Cider flight add-on and why lingering matters  Resources & Links:  -Liz Philpot: LinkedIn  -Eat Seattle Tours: Website, Instagram, Facebook  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.   Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    32 min

  5. OCT 13

    Paint Outside the Lines: How Paintillio Is Redefining Engagement at Events

    What if art could break down barriers and turn strangers into collaborators? In this episode, Alysse and Libby sit down with Jess Devenport, co-founder of Paintillio, the company revolutionizing events with massive, interactive paint-by-number murals. From weddings to Fortune 500 conferences to a record-breaking 60-foot Frida Kahlo piece in Mexico City, Jess shares how collaborative art fosters connection, relaxation and unforgettable memories at any scale.  Key Takeaways:  How Paintillio started as a joke and grew into a global company   Why collaborative murals are the ultimate icebreaker at events   Stories from massive installations in Mexico City, Spain, and beyond   The surprising therapeutic benefits of painting at conferences   How nonprofits like St. Jude’s use Paintillio murals to raise big donations   Timestamps:   [02:00] – The hilarious “paint by numbers” origin story   [07:00] – The biggest mural yet: 60ft Frida Kahlo in Mexico City   [10:20] – Pre-printing explained: how to get guests painting faster   [16:30] – Why collaborative murals are art therapy in disguise   [27:20] – St. Jude’s auction success: $50,000 raised from one mural   Resources & Links:  -Paintillio: LinkedIn, Website, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    37 min

  6. OCT 6

    The Fun Table: Why Office Parties Flop and How to Fix Them

    If “team bonding” at your company still means bar tabs and branded swag, this one’s for you. The Fun Table tears into why so many office parties feel forced — and shares smarter, inclusive, budget-savvy ways to gather. From clear structure and boundaries to sober-friendly menus, opt-out without penalty, remote/hybrid equity, and purpose-driven activities (like service projects), this episode rewrites the playbook for events that actually build culture — not just calendars.   Key Takeaways  Structure + boundaries beat chaos: state what it is, what it isn’t, when it starts/ends, and how to participate.  “Festivities should not require homework”: provide theme aids (leis/props), inclusive menu options, and multiple ways to play.  Opt-out without penalty: attendance should never be a career litmus test.  Culture mirror: events can reveal inclusion gaps; design for time zones, caregivers and remote teams.  Trend watch: only ~54% of Americans drink — Gen Z is leading sober-curious culture. Design accordingly.  Timestamps:   [00:02:10] - BC/AD of office parties: pre- vs post-COVID reality check  [00:18:07] - “No homework” parties: clarity, inclusion and multiple modes of fun  [00:21:48] - The stat: drinking at record low; design beyond the bar  [00:26:29] - The specialty-cocktail trap & sober inclusion at the door  [00:28:04] - Make opt-out culturally safe — no side-eye, no demerits  [00:33:08] - Purpose-driven, not performative; remote/hybrid respect  [00:40:35] - Best “party” idea: group service > group shots  Resources & Links:  -Meet The Fun Table: Kristin Graham, Dele Downs Kooley, Amy Liz Harrison  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    42 min

  7. SEP 29

    Goofiness as a Leadership Skill with Jacques The Party Scientist

    Meet Jacques The Party Scientist, a dynamic speaker, consultant and event producer who uses his background in public health and biochemistry to revolutionize the way we approach events. On this episode of BEATS WORKING, Jacques shares how fostering joy and authentic connection — not just impressive venues or open bars — creates truly unforgettable experiences. Discover why goofiness is more than fun; it's a leadership superpower that unlocks deeper human bonds.  Key Takeaways  Goofiness Is a Leadership Skill: Embracing silliness helps people drop their social “masks” and fosters authentic connections at events.  Connection Outweighs Aesthetics: The strongest communities are built through engineered interaction, not just impressive venues or fancy décor.  Alcohol Doesn’t Equal Connection: Most meaningful event connections happen when facilitated vulnerability and engagement are prioritized over open bars.  Nudging Participation Works: Simple tactics like structured pairings, gratitude exercises, and playful movement can elevate the room’s vibe and inclusivity.  Event Openings Set the Tone: Creating clear expectations and social norms from the outset empowers deeper interactions and participant comfort.  Timestamps:   [00:00] – Jacques on goofiness, masks, and leadership  [08:55] – Common event mistakes and the “PPP” framework  [18:01] – Designing gatherings for deep, intentional connection  [25:15] – Transformational impact of joy interventions  [28:44] – Goofiness, masks and imperfectionism  [35:16] – The impact of class, belonging and authenticity  [36:25] – Jacques’ most unforgettable joy intervention  Resources & Links:  The Party Scientist: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram  -More about Jacques The Party Scientist  -Event: Joy Bootcamp  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    39 min

  8. SEP 22

    Your Voice Is Your Brand with Dele Downs Kooley

    Join hosts Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren and sit down with Dele Downs Kooley — speaker coach, personal brand strategist, Amazon #1 bestselling author and former Microsoft culture leader. Dele unpacks the importance of owning your voice, building presence and leading with confidence, especially in high-performance and events-driven environments. She shares actionable strategies for overcoming fear of failure, developing your “why,” and amplifying your message both on stage and behind the scenes.  Takeaways:  Set Boundaries for Self-Care: Prioritizing yourself enables you to better serve your team, clients and audience.  Own Your Story: Your career path, no matter how winding, becomes a unique asset when you embrace it fully.  Red/Yellow/Green Framework: Use this tool to map out and strengthen relationships vital to achieving event and career goals.  Connect to Your “Why”: Grounding your work in deeper purpose not only fuels perseverance but also enhances event impact.  Amplify Your Message: Don’t let a great talk end on stage — repurpose and extend its reach through podcasts, writing and workshops.  Timestamps:   [00:00] – Dele’s self-care story: boundaries and reframing “selfishness”  [09:26] – Why high performers (and event planners) can feel stuck using their voice  [12:18] – The “red/yellow/green” tool for professional relationship mapping  [16:38] – Navigating feedback and gender biases when claiming your wins  [18:41] – Turning criticism into clarity: the power of knowing your “why”  [22:33] – Applying voice ownership to event planning and event marketing  [25:53] – Crafting and sharing your “why” for authentic event experiences  [28:01] – Behind the scenes: coaching TEDx speakers to shine on stage  [43:50] – Strategies to keep your story alive after the big event or talk  Resources & Links:  -Dele Downs Kooley: LinkedIn   -Dele Kooley Coaching: Website, Facebook, Instagram   -Dele's Thrive Speaker Program  -Podcast: "Pivot to Joy"  -Book: "Inspiring Women Professionals Who Boss Up"  -Learn more about publishing your story with Amy Liz Harrison  -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn  Connect with Us:  -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com  -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show  -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow  -Facebook: @Beats Working Show  -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST  Follow & Subscribe:  If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.  Send Feedback:  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@beatsworking.show.   BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

    51 min
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Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where party people Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.

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