Event Marketer's Toolbox

Chris Dunn
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Each episode, host Chris Dunn teams up with a leading event professional to explore the tools, tactics, and trends that drive real results. Event Marketer’s Toolbox is the definitive playbook for corporate event professionals and trade show marketers.   From first-time marketers to seasoned planners, this show delivers practical solutions to make your events memorable and impactful. Engage. Excel. Execute. 

  1. 3D AGO

    EMT #37 with Mitchell Mauk - Storytelling Through Exhibit Design: Metaphor, Simplicity & Impact

    In the latest episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn and Dana Esposito sat down with Mitchell Mauk, Principal of Mauk Design, to discuss how storytelling, metaphor, and simplification can transform exhibits into memorable, engaging, and effective experiences. Mitchell, whose work spans NASA, Google, McDonald’s, AT&T, and O.C. Tanner, shared his insights on how exhibits can communicate complex ideas simply, captivate audiences, and reinforce brand messaging. Even for those who weren’t able to see the visuals, Mitchell “painted a picture” with his examples and explanations, making the episode both educational and actionable. Key Insights from the Episode: Storytelling drives engagement: Exhibits that tell a clear narrative capture attention and make messages stick.Metaphor simplifies communication: Using relatable concepts helps attendees remember your message long after the event.Simplification enhances interaction: Clear, intuitive design ensures attendees can navigate, engage, and connect with your booth.Visual storytelling matters: Graphics, lighting, and spatial cues all reinforce the brand’s story.Guest Quotes from Mitchell Mauk: “Storytelling is how we, as humans, connect. Your exhibit should communicate a narrative, not just information.”“Metaphor simplifies communication and makes it easier for people to remember your message.”“Simplification lets attendees find and engage with your exhibit—it’s as much about clarity as it is about aesthetics.”This episode is a must-listen for event marketers, designers, and experiential professionals looking to create exhibits that are not just seen, but experienced, remembered, and talked about. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    1h 3m

  2. SEP 5

    EMT #36 with Jakob Eliason - Pickleball as a Brand Experience: Wellness, Activations & ROI

    In the latest episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn sat down with Jakob Eliason, co-founder of Pickleball Pop-Ups, to explore how pickleball has evolved into a powerful experiential marketing tool. Jakob shared how the sport engages audiences across corporate events, tradeshows, festivals, and community programs, and why it’s become a go-to activity for brand activations and corporate wellness initiatives. During the conversation, listeners learned: Pickleball as an engagement tool: How activations create fun, interactive experiences that leave a lasting impression.Corporate wellness & public health applications: Why pickleball is ideal for team-building and employee engagement.Real metrics & insights: Jakob shared growth data and personal experiences demonstrating the effectiveness of the sport.Event strategy & execution tips: How to successfully integrate pickleball into events of all sizes.Jakob emphasized that most people aren’t familiar with pickleball, which makes each activation an opportunity to show why it works—and to create memorable brand experiences. Key Quotes from Jakob Eliason: “Most people aren’t pickleball players—so every activation is about showing why the game works and creating a memorable experience.”“Pickleball is perfect for corporate wellness and team-building because it’s simple, social, and fun.”“We can use pickleball anywhere: tradeshows, festivals, corporate events—the applications are endless.”The episode wrapped up with actionable advice for marketers looking to maximize engagement, build wellness programs, and drive ROI through experiential activations. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    1 hr

  3. AUG 29

    EMT #35 with Brandon Lee - Turn Trust into Revenue: Reputation-Driven Event Strategies

    On this episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn and Brendon Hamlin sit down with Brandon Lee, founder of Fist Bump, to explore how trust and reputation drive revenue at events and tradeshows. Brandon shares insights on creating credible booth experiences, building advocacy, and aligning sales and event teams to convert leads into long-term relationships. Whether you’re a first-time event marketer or a seasoned professional, this episode provides actionable tools and strategies for building trust-based event programs that increase ROI. Why reputation matters more than awareness in driving long-term revenue.How to create trust and credibility on the show floor with staff, design, and storytelling.Post-show strategies to turn relationships into pipeline.Aligning sales and event teams for maximum impact.Brandon’s practical tools for pre, during, and post-event reputation-building. Trust > Leads: Focus on building credibility before chasing prospects.Booth Matters: Design experiences that reflect your brand and create memorable interactions.Follow-Up is Key: Post-event content and engagement turn trust into pipeline.Team Alignment: Sales and events must work together on a reputation-first strategy.Practical Tools: Pre-show audits, credibility campaigns, and post-show connection ladders are actionable ways to implement Brandon’s strategies immediately. Brandon Lee shows how reputation-driven strategies can transform events into revenue-generating experiences. By focusing on trust, credibility, and alignment, marketers can create lasting impressions, build advocacy, and increase ROI. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    1h 4m

  4. AUG 23

    EMT #34 with Finn Yonkers - Designing Impact: Memorable Exhibits and the Future of Engagement

    In this episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn and Dana Esposito sit down with Finn Yonkers, EVP Creative at BlueHive Exhibits, to explore the art and science behind creating memorable exhibits and experiences. With over 30 years of experience spanning exhibit design, multimedia, and interactive experiences for brands like Amgen, Bose, Intel, Biogen, and Adobe, Finn shares insights on designing for impact, translating abstract ideas into reality, and leveraging brand DNA to create unforgettable experiences. Designing for memorability: How relevance and impact create experiences that leave a lasting impression.Brand DNA: Lessons from automotive styling and design language applied to exhibits.Turning abstract ideas into big concepts: A walkthrough of Finn’s approach with Biotechne.Neurological impact of engagement: How different types of interaction affect attendee perception.Future trends & AI: Why face-to-face interaction will remain critical as technology changes industries.This episode is packed with actionable strategies and forward-thinking ideas for designers, marketers, and event professionals looking to elevate their events and drive meaningful engagement. Memorable experiences start with relevance: Design with the audience and brand in mind.Brand DNA drives design: Consistent visual and experiential language makes exhibits cohesive and impactful.Abstract-to-action: Translating concepts into actionable, engaging experiences is key to standout events.Engagement matters neurologically: Experiences should capture attention and leave lasting impressions.Future-forward thinking: AI is changing industries, but human interaction remains critical for authentic engagement.Finn Yonkers shows how expert exhibit design and creative strategy can transform ordinary events into unforgettable experiences. From leveraging brand DNA to understanding the neurological impact of engagement, this episode is full of insights and actionable strategies for anyone looking to elevate their events. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    1h 2m

  5. AUG 15

    EMT #33 with Chris Dunn and Dana Esposito - Beyond the Booth: 30 Years of Lessons in Event Design & Strategy

    In the latest episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox Live, Chris Dunn sits down with Dana Esposito to share insights from her 30+ years in exhibit design and event strategy. Dana dives into the lessons she’s learned, career transitions, and the practical strategies that help professionals grow, engage, and make an impact in the events industry. Whether you’re a designer, marketer, or event professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration for taking your career and events to the next level. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Career Evolution & Transition Learn how Dana expanded her career beyond exhibit design into broader roles in event strategy and leadership. She shares advice for anyone looking to move into new roles or take on bigger responsibilities.Insights from Conventions & Shows Dana shares key takeaways from recent conventions, highlighting trends, innovations, and best practices that professionals can apply to their own events.Employee Engagement Discover why it’s essential to get your team out to events, how to overcome obstacles, and the benefits this brings to knowledge, connections, and company growth.Industry Involvement & Presenting Beyond Your Role Dana explains how participating in industry organizations and presenting on topics outside your expertise can expand influence and credibility.Practical Advice for Event Professionals From career growth to team development, Dana offers insights that are immediately applicable to event strategy, team management, and personal development.Key Quotes from Dana Esposito “Don’t be afraid to move beyond your role. The skills you’ve built can open doors in unexpected areas of events and marketing.”“Seeing trends in-person at shows can completely change how you think about your own event strategies.”“Getting your team out to events is not just for fun—it’s critical for their growth and the company’s success.”“Sometimes the most impactful presentations are the ones that are outside your core expertise.” Dana Esposito’s experience shows that career growth, employee engagement, and industry involvement go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re starting in events or leading a team, her insights provide practical tips for making a real impact in your career and your company. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    1h 4m

  6. AUG 8

    EMT #32 with Bob Hanson and Nick Salvatoriello - The Mars and Venus of Events: Can In-Person & Virtual Get Along?

    In the latest episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox Live, Chris Dunn sits down with Bob Hanson and Nick Sal to discuss one of the most pressing challenges in the events industry: How can in-person and virtual events work together seamlessly? For years, event professionals have treated in-person and virtual events as competitors. But the truth is—they can be powerful partners, amplifying each other’s strengths and driving greater ROI. In this episode, Bob and Nick share how to bridge the gap between these two event formats and maximize results. 🔹 Before the Event: Pre-show Promotion Bob, Nick, and Chris kick things off by discussing how to engage your audience before the event even begins. Pre-show promotion is crucial to boosting attendance and building excitement. Virtual channels, like webinars and case studies, offer powerful ways to connect with your audience ahead of time. As Bob highlights, “Pre-show promotion should be seen as an extension of your event, not just a promotional campaign.” Engaging with your audience early on sets the tone for the event, builds anticipation, and extends your reach. 🔹 During the Event: Creating Real Connections Once your event kicks off, it’s time to make the most of both formats. Nick emphasizes the importance of integrating virtual components into live events to maintain engagement. Whether it’s live streaming keynotes, sharing behind-the-scenes content, or incorporating customer story videos, there are countless ways to bring virtual-first strategies into the mix. Nick says, “Virtual events and in-person events should be partners, not competitors. Together, they can amplify the experience.” Hybrid events not only broaden the reach but also enhance attendee engagement, making your event accessible to a larger audience while still offering an intimate, in-person experience. 🔹 After the Event: Maximizing Post-Event Impact The conversation doesn’t stop once the event ends. Bob and Nick stress the importance of repurposing content for post-event engagement. From post-event webinars to roadshows and follow-up emails, keeping the conversation going after the event is essential for nurturing leads and driving conversions. As Chris points out, “Repurposing content after the event is essential. Don't just create content for one moment—make it part of your ongoing marketing strategy.” By extending the lifecycle of your event content, you can continue building relationships, driving sales, and ultimately maximizing ROI long after the event ends. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    57 min

  7. JUL 31

    EMT #31 with Chris Griffin - Chris Griffin’s Vision for the Future of Events and Industry Growth

    In the latest episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn and Dana Esposito chat with Chris Griffin, President of the EDPA and Owner of Crew XP. Chris shares valuable insights on leadership, industry advocacy, and the importance of building strong relationships in the events sector. Chris discussed the crucial role of advocacy for the future of the industry, especially in his time at Legislative Action Day in Washington, D.C., where industry leaders lobbied for important policies. As Chris said, “If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.” He also emphasized the power of relationship-building within the industry: "You can’t just go to the table and ask for help—relationships are built through deposits, not withdrawals." The conversation also touched on how the pandemic has sparked a new spirit of collaboration in the industry, allowing businesses to adapt and innovate together. Another key point was workforce development. Chris highlighted the importance of mentoring young talent and showing them that event planning is a career worth pursuing. Advocacy: Industry professionals must engage in legislative action to drive change.Relationship Building: Success in events depends on strong, trust-based relationships.Collaboration: The pandemic’s challenges sparked a new wave of adaptability and innovation.Workforce Development: Encouraging younger generations to pursue careers in the events industry is crucial. Listen to the Full Episode Chris Griffin’s insights on leadership, advocacy, and building relationships offer key lessons for anyone looking to impact the events industry. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    1h 2m

  8. JUL 25

    EMT #30 with Caitlyn Correia - The Exhibit Evolution: Family, Flexibility & Forward Thinking

    In this episode of Event Marketer’s Toolbox, Chris Dunn is joined by Caitlyn Correa, President & CEO of BlueHive Exhibits and Continental Woodcraft. Caitlyn, a third-generation business owner, shares her journey of balancing family life with leading a growing business in the ever-evolving events industry. She talks about the challenges, rewards, and the flexibility needed to thrive in today’s business environment. Caitlyn dives into: Running a Family Business: Navigating the demands of managing a third-generation business while staying true to the company’s legacy and adapting to market changes.Planning for the Future: Caitlyn’s approach to long-term planning, focusing on one, three, and five-year strategies for sustained growth in uncertain times.Work-Life Balance: How Caitlyn balances leading a thriving business with being a mom, and why flexibility is essential for success.Diversification: Caitlyn shares how diversifying services—like Continental Woodcraft—has helped BlueHive Exhibits stay competitive and relevant in a constantly changing industry.This episode offers valuable insights into leadership, flexibility, and forward thinking in business, especially for entrepreneurs managing both family and business. Running a family business while navigating the complexities of business growth and personal life is no easy feat. But Caitlyn Correa proves it’s possible with flexibility, forward-thinking, and strong support systems. 👉🏼 Join us for more insightful discussions like this by tuning into 'Event Marketer's Toolbox,' where industry leaders share the tools, tactics, and trends driving success in the event world. This Show is sponsored by Blue Hive 📅 Join us LIVE every Thursday at 12 PM ET on LinkedIn Follow Us on LinkedIn and YouTube Subscribe to our Newsletter!

    52 min
See All (37)

About

Each episode, host Chris Dunn teams up with a leading event professional to explore the tools, tactics, and trends that drive real results. Event Marketer’s Toolbox is the definitive playbook for corporate event professionals and trade show marketers.   From first-time marketers to seasoned planners, this show delivers practical solutions to make your events memorable and impactful. Engage. Excel. Execute. 

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Dunn
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Event Marketer's Toolbox
  • Show Website
    Event Marketer's Toolbox