Event Explorer

Daniel Roth

5.0 (5)
BUSINESS
UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

Event Explorer

Join us as we talk to the leaders of the world’s best festivals and events - hearing the stories, challenges, and triumphs of bringing these memorable experiences to life from the people making them happen.

2H AGO

Crafting Canadian Creativity at Riverfest Elora with Spencer Shewen

What happens when world-class music meets small-town magic? Spencer Shewen, the creative force behind Riverfest Elora and Mariposa Folk Festival, joins host Daniel Roth to talk about building unforgettable festival experiences in the heart of Ontario. From curating diverse, high-energy lineups to keeping things rooted in local culture, Spencer shares how Riverfest has grown into one of Canada’s most beloved summer events. They dive into the legacy of founder Marilyn Koop, the evolution of what “folk” means today, and how festivals are reshaping the cultural identity of towns like Elora and Orillia. Whether you're a music fan, festival producer, or just looking for your next summer adventure, this episode brings the energy. #RiverfestElora #MariposaFolkFestival #EventExplorer #FestivalSeason #LiveMusicVibes #CanadianFestivals #CreativeDirector #SmallTownBigSound #MusicDiscovery #CulturalEvents

36 min
JUN 24

Memphis in May: A City Welcoming the World

What started as a way to bring Memphis together has become one of the most impactful civic festivals in the U.S. In this episode, Daniel talks with Kevin Grothe, Executive Vice President of Memphis in May International Festival, about how this month-long celebration has grown into a global gathering, from barbecue competitions and music festivals to cultural exchanges and international business connections. Kevin shares how the festival unites the city, fuels tourism and economic growth, and evolves year after year. Plus, we get a look ahead at what’s in store for the 50th anniversary and the return of the Beale Street Music Festival in 2026. Subscribe, leave a review, and send your festival ideas to eventexp.org

37 min
JUN 6

Anchored in Tradition: Windjammer Days with Mark Gimbel and Bruce White

Every summer, Boothbay Harbor, Maine comes alive with Windjammer Days — a weeklong celebration of maritime heritage filled with schooners, vintage boats, lobster races, codfish relays, and fireworks over the water. In this episode, Daniel talks with Mark Gimbel and Bruce White, two local leaders who helped grow the festival into what it is today. From the history of tall ships to the joy of tug-of-war across the harbor, this is a look at how a small town throws a big party rooted in tradition, community, and coastal charm. Subscribe to Event Explorer and send us your favorite festivals to cover at daniel@eventexp.org. #WindjammerDays #BoothbayHarbor #FestivalPodcast #SailingLife #MaritimeHeritage #EventExplorer #SummerFestivals #TallShips #MaineEvents #ExploreMore

20 min
MAY 23

eSports Event Excellence with Sarah Kneller

Sarah Kneller didn’t set out to become a leader in esports, but once she got pulled in, she helped shape it. From wrangling chaos at the first International Dota 2 tournament to launching Gamers & Guardians for military communities, she’s been at the frontlines of what digital-first events can do. In this episode, we talk about what makes an event feel real, even when it’s happening online. Sarah shares how broadcast, game design, and emotional connection all come together in the spaces she builds. And why, sometimes, a weekly game night can mean a whole lot more than just a game. This one’s about events, purpose, connection, and rethinking how we gather. Follow Gamers & Guardians on Twitch and check out more at augustinteractive.gg. To stay in the loop or share your story, head to eventexp.org.

43 min
MAY 2

SF Sketchfest with founder David Owen - Striking Comedy Gold in San Francisco

Since 2002, SF Sketchfest has hosted the biggest names in comedy—Monty Python legends, Kids in the Hall, Mr. Show, SNL icons, Paul Giamatti, Tim Curry, and even surprise appearances from Bill Murray. In this episode, co-founder David Owen joins us to share how the festival grew from a six-show grassroots event into a comedy mecca that blends underground talent with cultural icons. We go behind the scenes on what makes the festival special, how the team built trust with performers, and why live comedy still matters more than ever. Laugh, learn, and discover: this is the story of SF Sketchfest. #SFSketchfest #ComedyFestival #LiveComedy #EventExplorer #PaulGiamatti #TimCurry #BillMurray #SNL #MontyPython #KidsInTheHall #Podcast #FestivalStory

37 min
APR 15

A Degree for Event Pros! with Dr. Tim Otteman

How do you train someone to run a music festival, a halftime show, or a citywide celebration? It starts with education. In this episode of Event Explorer, we sit down with Dr. Tim Otteman from Central Michigan University—one of the only accredited event management programs in the U.S.—to talk about what it takes to prepare the next generation of event professionals. From hands-on internships to classroom lessons in risk, budgeting, and cultural impact, Dr. Otteman shares how education is shaping the future of the events industry—and why creating meaningful experiences starts long before anyone arrives onsite. 🎓 A must-listen for educators, producers, and anyone looking to break into the world of live events. #EventExplorer #Events #EventProfs #Podcast #Education #FestivalLife #LiveEvents #Internships #CollegeToCareer #CreativeCareers #EventManagement #HigherEd #CMU #Leadership #FutureOfEvents

35 min
MAR 31

The Sound of East London - Brick Lane Jazz Festival with founder Juliet Kennedy

Juliet Kennedy, founder of Brick Lane Jazz Festival, joins Event Explorer to share how East London’s underground scene helped shape one of the UK’s most exciting music festivals. We talk about curating genre-blurring lineups, building community through venues, and what’s in store for the 2025 edition. 🎶 Brick Lane Jazz Festival returns April 25–27, 2025 Full Lineup and Venue Info: https://www.bricklanejazzfestival.com/ 🎧 Listen in, then check out the official Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/31fywv2eq6ozscbxiqhgvia6syby?si=710e68238c884557&nd=1&dlsi=998b762fee904082 #BrickLaneJazzFestival #LondonJazz #UKJazzScene #EastLondonCulture #JazzRefreshed #TomorrowsWarriors #MusicFestival #Festival #Event #IndependentMusic #NeoSoul #Jazz #London

27 min
MAR 16

L.A.'s largest parade - The 126th Annual Golden Dragon Parade with Mamie Hong Weinberg

Mamie Hong Weinberg’s story is the story of Chinese American culture in Los Angeles over the last several decades. A lifelong resident of Chinatown, Mamie has watched her community evolve while playing an active role in preserving and celebrating its traditions. In this episode of Event Explorer, Mamie shares her journey from childhood in Chinatown to performing as a dancer, to her current leadership with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles. We dive into the 126-year legacy of the Golden Dragon Parade and how it has become a cultural anchor, shaping generations of Chinese American identity and expression in LA. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about community, tradition, and the power of events to create lasting connections. 🎟 Don’t miss the 126th Annual Golden Dragon Parade on March 22nd from 1 to 4 p.m. along North Broadway in Chinatown!

33 min

TRAILER

Subscribe to the Event Explorer Podcast!

Join us on the Event Explorer podcast as we journey into the captivating world of events, festivals, and celebrations. Subscribe now to uncover the stories, trends, and innovations shaping the industry. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for exclusive behind-the-scenes content. #Event #EventManagement #Festival #Festivals #MusicFestival #EventProduction #EventDesign #LiveEvents" Follow Us on LinkedIn Follow Us on Instagram

03/14/2024

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2 min

5

out of 5

5 Ratings

In the know

03/30/2024

Laura RDH

This is a great behind the scenes view of event planning on a large scale. Can’t wait to hear more content on Event Explorer.

Join us as we talk to the leaders of the world’s best festivals and events - hearing the stories, challenges, and triumphs of bringing these memorable experiences to life from the people making them happen.

Creator

Daniel Roth
Years Active

2024 - 2025
Episodes

31
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
Show Website

Event Explorer