The Event Tech Pull Up

Keith Johnston/Tess Vismale
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  • TECHNOLOGY
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We want to cut through the event tech bull that meeting and event planners encounter across the meetings and events industry. Our episodes cover topics from event registration and AI to the latest gadgets and gear. We even throw in some event design trends and comment on the industry's ridiculousness.

  1. 2H AGO

    Inside the World’s Most Advanced Mobile Event Space with Optima1

    Recorded live inside the Optima1 mobile event space on the Confex show floor in London, this special episode of Event Tech Pull Up explores a completely different approach to event environments. Tess Vismale, Kristi Casey, and Stuart Mitchell sit down with Mark Tasker of Optima1 to talk about how the mobile venue was designed, why flexibility is critical for modern event production, and how a single space can transform into a broadcast studio, hospitality suite, product launch venue, or interactive brand activation. The conversation highlights how Optima1 combines luxury design, broadcast-level AV production, and rapid deployment to create a fully functional event environment that can be delivered almost anywhere. The episode was also edited and produced by the Optima1 team inside the mobile space itself, making it a true demonstration of what the platform can do.  What We Cover The story behind Optima1 and the production challenges it was built to solveWhy event producers wanted a mobile venue that combines luxury, AV, and flexibilityHow the space can transform into a studio, hospitality lounge, classroom, or product launch venueThe technology behind the mobile environment, including 4K displays and broadcast capabilitiesHow quickly the unit can deploy compared to traditional event buildsWhy mobile event spaces are powerful tools for brand activations and experiential marketingCreative ways planners could use Optima1 for roadshows, demos, and interactive experiencesGuest Mark Tasker – Optima1 Mark Tasker is an event producer and the creator of Optima1, a high-end mobile event space designed to deliver fully equipped environments for events, broadcast production, hospitality, and brand activations. Built from decades of event production experience, Optima1 combines studio-grade AV technology, flexible branding capabilities, and luxury event design in a mobile platform that can be deployed almost anywhere.  Hosts Tess Vismale – iSocialX / Event Tech AtlasKristi Casey – Event Tech AtlasStuart Mitchell – Catch the MICE / Event Tech Atlas Key Takeaway Events don’t always need a ballroom, a convention center, or a traditional venue. When technology, design, and mobility come together, planners can create fully functional event environments anywhere a truck can park. Learn More Optima1 – ⁠https://www.optima1.com/⁠Mark Tasker – ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/markfruition/⁠Event Tech Atlas - ⁠https://eventtechatlas.com/⁠Event Tech Pull Up Podcast - ⁠https://eventtechpullup.com/⁠

    20 min

  2. 2D AGO

    Behind the Scenes with AV Pros: Solving Problems in Real Time

    Recorded live from the Confex show floor in London, Keith Johnston and Tess Vismale sit down with Mark Kisby of The AV Department Ltd. to talk about the realities of delivering audio-visual production around the world. From royal yachts to global conferences, Mark shares stories about last-minute AV challenges, creative problem solving, and why the relationship between planners and production teams is critical to event success. What We Cover What it takes to deliver AV for events around the worldReal stories of last-minute production challengesHow AV teams creatively solve problems during live eventsThe growing complexity of event technology setupsWhy clients are increasingly asking for self-operated AV systemsThe importance of preparation for speakers and interpretersWhy sending presentations early can make or break a show Guest Mark Kisby – The AV Department Ltd. Mark Kisby leads The AV Department Ltd., a production company based in Scotland that delivers global audio-visual services including interpretation systems, PA, conferencing technology, and event production support. With decades of experience in the industry, Mark and his team specialize in solving complex technical challenges for live events around the world. Hosts Keith Johnston – i3 Events / Event Tech AtlasTess Vismale – iSocialX / Event Tech Atlas Featuring: Neela Johnston – Event Tech Atlas Learn More Mark Kisby - https://www.linkedin.com/in/avdept/The AV Department, LTD - https://www.avdept.co.uk/Event Tech Atlas - https://eventtechatlas.com/Event Tech Pull Up Podcast - https://eventtechpullup.com/ Episode Brought to You By Joi Events - https://www.joi.events/ #EventTech #AVProduction #EventProfs #LiveEvents #Confex

    16 min

  3. FEB 26

    Event Tech Atlas Launch - Confex 2026

    Yesterday, at the buzzing, slightly chaotic, wonderfully global energy of Confex in London, we officially launched Event Tech Atlas — live, on the show floor, as part of the Catch the MICE stand (E35C). And yes… we recorded an episode of the Event Tech Pull Up right there in the middle of it all. Because subtlety has never been our thing. On-site for launch: Keith Johnston – Co-FounderTess Vismale, CMP Fellow, DES – Co-FounderKristi Casey – Executive Editor (truth teller-in-chief)Neela Johnston – Events & Operations Director (planner voice of reason)Stuart Mitchell –Head of Revenue & Partnerships (UK connector extraordinaire) What we launched (and why it matters) Event Tech Atlas is a decision-support platform built for meeting and event professionals who are tired of: Pay-to-play rankings“Top 10” lists written by someone who’s never planned an eventSales pitches disguised as educationSwitching tech without knowing what breaks downstream We’re building a smarter way to research and compare event technology — grounded in real-world planner experience, not advertising budgets. As shared during the live recording: Every company is listed on equal footing.No one can buy a better review.Peer review drives credibility.Education sits alongside listings — because tools without context don’t help anyone. The Atlas isn’t software you run your event on. It’s the map that helps you choose the right software in the first place. Explore it here: https://eventtechatlas.com/ The Big Differentiators Peer review collective We’re assembling planners and technologists across corporate, association, agency, executive assistant and independent sectors. They: Test toolsAsk hard questionsShare honest feedbackHelp surface unintended consequences If you want to apply, applications are live now. Free accounts (with actual value) Create a free account and you can:Save and star toolsJoin Tuesday Office Hours with Keith & TessGet access to deeper educational contentParticipate in live conversations about tech stacks, integrations, and vendor decisions Because sometimes you don’t need another demo. You need someone to sanity-check your tech stack. What’s coming in version 2.0 We’re building it as a product roadmap (because planners deserve better tools to choose from). Next up: Side-by-side product comparisonSpecification-based filteringDeeper integration guidanceExpanded content around data, storage, compliance and vendor questionsUK, EU and global vendor growth (thanks, Stuart) A moment that stuck with us After the recording, we attended an industry gathering primarily filled with tech founders. Multiple founders said the same thing: “We need this. We want honest feedback.” That matters. This isn’t about planners vs. tech companies. It’s about transparency, education, and raising the standard on both sides. Built by practitioners, not commentators Event Tech Atlas is a division of Pull Up With Us, LLC, co-founded by Keith Johnston and Tess Vismale — practitioners who’ve spent decades producing conferences, building tech stacks and cleaning up tech decisions that sounded good in sales meetings but broke three systems later. We believe: Integrity beats placement feesEducation beats hypeContext beats feature listsAnd no, one tool does not fit allWhat’s next Peer review onboardingFirst review releasesWeekly office hoursFeature enhancementsOngoing educationAnd probably a few live show floor recordings along the way.If you’re a planner: Come build this with us. If you’re a tech company: Show up ready for honest feedback. If you’re both? Even better. Welcome to Event Tech Atlas.

    21 min

  4. 10/01/2025

    "Awards Are Not an Add-On" with Cecilia Lavin of Evessio

    Awards aren’t just a side show — they’re one of the most powerful (and underused) tools in an organization's toolkit. In this episode, Tess and Keith pull up with their longtime friend and industry pro Cecilia Lavin from Evessio to talk about why awards deserve their own spotlight, how tech is transforming the process, and how AI, data, and creativity can turn recognition programs into engagement and revenue engines. It’s part strategy session, part candid chat between friends — and packed with insights you’ll want to use at your next event. What We Talk About Why awards are more than an “add-on” – and how they can become their own event ecosystem.The truth about budgets and pricing – how the industry’s lack of transparency has created a disconnect between planners and tech providers.Tech stack strategies – why specialized tools working together often outperform “all-in-one” platforms.Integrations and connectors – how Evessio plays nicely with the rest of your tech stack.Creative revenue models – from directories to league tables, how clients are monetizing beyond event day.AI in awards and abstracts – real-world examples of AI reducing judging time and improving accuracy without losing human authenticity.The future of feedback – using benchmarking, judge comments, and even public voting data to deepen engagement and improve entries.Voice-first tech and accessibility – why voice input and multilingual features are the next frontier.Roadmap & future vision – how Evessio is using data and generative AI to support organizers, sponsors, and entrants year-round.

    1h 8m

  5. 08/11/2025

    Private AI Chats Go Public - What Event Pros Need to Know

    A recent AI privacy kerfuffle saw some ChatGPT chats popping up in Google search results. Was it overblown? Sure—but it’s a great reminder that “share” doesn’t always mean “safe.” In this episode, Keith and Tess break down what actually happened, why design and user education matter, and how event pros can protect their data when using AI tools, without killing the innovation buzz. We Dive Into: What the ChatGPT/Google indexing story got right (and wrong) How shared links can linger on the internet forever Why free AI tools often make you the product The risks of custom AI models and prompt injection A simple rule of thumb for keeping event data on “safer turf” If you’re using AI for brainstorming, custom tools, or attendee communications, this is your friendly-but-firm reminder to check your settings before your strategy session becomes searchable.

    25 min

  6. 04/21/2025

    Don’t Call It a Comeback - Blended is the Future of Events

    Blended is back, baby—and it never should’ve left! In this episode, Tess and Keith get fired up (in the best way) about the return of hybrid events—er, blended audiences—and why now is the time for planners to get strategic, not nostalgic. With international travel down, stricter border controls in place, and the U.S. becoming less accessible for global attendees, we're once again seeing the critical need for virtual options. But this time around, the tech is better, the audiences are smarter, and the excuses are tired. Here’s what we dig into: Real-world shifts affecting international attendance (visa delays and new travel fees)Why blended audiences deserve more than just lip serviceThe case for strategy-first thinking when choosing your tech stackBudget-friendly ways to actually create engagement across virtual and in-person audiencesWhy your mobile app should be more than just a digital agendaMust-have features for today’s blended events—from streaming to networking tools to community platformsHot take alert: Calling out planners who ditched virtual too soon Plus, we share some of our go-to tools for supporting blended experiences (check the links below 👇), and why long-term planning matters more than ever in the face of event industry disruption. Key Takeaway: Blended isn’t a backup plan—it’s the new baseline. Whether it’s 80/20 in-person to virtual or vice versa, your event strategy should reflect reality: audiences need options. Tools, Apps, and an Episode We Mention: ZoomCircleMighty NetworksSwapcardThe Coming Event Tech Apocolypse Have thoughts or want to be a guest? Hit us up at tech@eventtechpullup.com or check out the guest application form on eventtechpullup.com. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share. We're on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all the usual spots. If you like what you hear, leave us a review or share the show with your event planner bestie.

    30 min

  7. 01/29/2025

    The Non-Tech Playbook for Event Tech Success

    On this episode of The Event Tech Pull Up, we’re flipping the script! Normally, we’re all about the latest and greatest in event tech—from AI to apps and everything in between. But today, we’re taking a step back to explore something a little different: the power of non-tech strategies to make your event tech even better. That’s right—sometimes, the best way to enhance your tech is to go old school. We’re diving into 10 non-tech ways to improve your event tech, and trust us, these strategies will transform the way you think about planning and executing your events. Here’s what we cover: ✅ Strategic Implementation – Before investing in new tech, do your research and map out your event like tech doesn’t exist. Then, layer in the right tools to enhance (not complicate) your attendee experience. ✅ Human-Centered Design – Instead of assuming what your attendees need, ask them! Plan for an event that prioritizes accessibility, ease of use, and genuine engagement before you even think about tech solutions. ✅ Optimizing Physical Space – The right venue setup can make or break your tech experience. We shout out the Marriott Magnificent Mile for their attendee-friendly design that supports seamless tech integration. ✅ Analog Entertainment Alternatives – Networking doesn't always need an app! Bring in live music, old-school arcade games, or even a game night with Scrabble and Spades to create meaningful connections. ✅ Engagement Without Screens – Encourage real, face-to-face interactions through curated meetup spaces, affinity groups, or icebreakers that don’t require an app. ✅ Event Floor Management – Map out your entire event from registration to wrap-up without tech first. Think through contingencies—what would you do if the power went out? ✅ Contingency Planning – Have a backup for your backup. We share a story about a client’s website crash and how our secret backup plan in Airmeet saved the day! ✅ Training Your Staff – Your tech is only as good as the people using it. Make sure your team is fully trained on your event app, registration process, and troubleshooting common tech issues. ✅ On-Site Attendee Support – Sometimes, an FAQ in an app isn’t enough. Set up physical help desks where attendees can get quick answers from real people (or even leverage AI-driven live support). ✅ Post-Event Community Building – Keep the conversation going with non-tech methods like handwritten postcards, recorded messages to your future self, or online forums that extend engagement beyond the event. 💡 And of course, we couldn’t resist bringing it all back to tech. Because, well, we’re us. Join us for this fun and insightful episode where we challenge our own tech-first instincts and explore ways to create better event experiences—sometimes, by stepping away from the screen. 🎧 Listen now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Your Favorite Podcast Platform📢 Find us online: EventTechPullUp.com📩 Want us at your next event? Email us at tech@eventtechpullup.com If you found value in this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with your fellow event pros! 🚀

    23 min

  8. 01/22/2025

    The Hub and Spoke Approach to Streamline Your Event Planning

    In this episode of The Event Tech Pull Up, Tess and I dive into the Hub and Spoke method—a powerful framework for streamlining event planning and data management. Think of it as the command center or nerve center of your event, where one central hub connects all the spokes: files, links, logos, images, and more. It’s about creating a unified, accessible workspace that cuts down on the chaos and keeps your event running smoothly. We explore some of the tools that bring the Hub and Spoke method to life, including favorites like Bublup, Tixio, Google Workspace, Notion, and even old-school Evernote. Each tool offers unique features like intuitive organization, color-coded folders, and visual previews, making it easier than ever to collaborate with your team and onboard stakeholders. We also touch on the importance of integration and automation. Many of these platforms integrate seamlessly with others, reducing manual tasks and automating processes like file sharing or approvals. And for those of you working on the go, tools like Bubble Up have stunning mobile apps that keep everything accessible from your pocket. If you’ve ever found yourself digging through emails to find that one exhibitor kit or chasing down proofs for name tags, this episode is for you. The Hub and Spoke method not only saves time but also enhances communication, transparency, and control—so you can spend less time hunting for files and more time enjoying a well-deserved glass of wine. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe to The Event Tech Pull Up wherever you get your podcasts. If you have questions, comments, or stories about your favorite event tech tools, hit us up on our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you!

    13 min
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About

We want to cut through the event tech bull that meeting and event planners encounter across the meetings and events industry. Our episodes cover topics from event registration and AI to the latest gadgets and gear. We even throw in some event design trends and comment on the industry's ridiculousness.

Information

  • Creator
    Keith Johnston/Tess Vismale
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Keith Johnston/Tess Vismale
  • Show Website
    The Event Tech Pull Up