The Global Exhibitor Podcast

Jeff Hannah
The Global Exhibitor Podcast

This is the podcast designed to help trade show exhibitors succeed internationally, hosted by Jeff Hannah. You will hear perspectives from many of the most experienced international experts in the industry - each with specific areas of focus, covering a broad range of topics including international marketing strategies, cross-cultural engagement challenges, experience design, communication tips, protocol recommendations, negotiation approaches, logistics help, and many others.

  1. APR 15

    Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024. Continuing our enlightening conversation with Jess Turnbull, we delve deeper into the world of exhibitions and client engagement in Australia. In this episode, you will join us for a conversation about: Insights garnered from advising and training clients on maximising returns The more selective approach to hospitality for trade shows in Australia How to maximize opportunities on the show floor Strategies and tactics that define successful exhibition experiences Gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of trade shows in Australia The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services. To learn more from Jess, please listen to Part 1 of this interview. This interview was recorded live at the amazing  Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-turnbull-32556950/ Website: www.theexhibitcompany.com.au

    30 min
  2. MAR 29

    Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull - Part 1

    In Part 1 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024. During this conversation, Jess shared insights into her journey, having co-founded The Exhibit Company with her stepfather, Chris Lamb some years ago. Their approach to the business is truly distinctive, placing strategy at the forefront – followed by outstanding design. Their forward-thinking mindset has positioned them ahead of the curve, consistently delivering clear value to their clients. In this episode, we discuss: The significance of a holistic approach to maximize opportunities on the show floor The shifting landscape of exhibitions in the Post-COVID era and why face-to-face interactions are here to stay The current attendee profile at trade shows and what this means for how you exhibit This conversation with Jessica Turnbull provides invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of exhibitions and the importance of strategic thinking in producing impactful experiences, with more to come in Part 2. The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services. This interview was recorded live at the amazing Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-turnbull-32556950/ Email: jess@theexhibitcompany.com.au Website: www.theexhibitcompany.com.au

    27 min
  3. MAR 1

    Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo – Part 2

    This is Part 2 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico. In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry. Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use). Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform, They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas: Palacio de los Deportes World Trade Center Mexico City Centro Citibanamex Expo Guadalajara Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco's heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry. Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America. Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta. Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor). Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.” SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC. This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-collazo-ortega-23601639/ Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/ www.globalexhibitor.com

    21 min
  4. FEB 24

    Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo – Part 1

    This is Part 1 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico. In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry. Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use). Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform, They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas: Palacio de los Deportes World Trade Center Mexico City Centro Citibanamex Expo Guadalajara Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco's heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry. Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America. Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta. Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor). Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.” SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC. This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-collazo-ortega-23601639/ Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/ www.globalexhibitor.com

    25 min
  5. 05/31/2023

    Inside the Mind of Digital Genius Mazi Farzam

    In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews digital genius, Mazi Farzam, CEO of Inhance Digital, an agency based in Los Angeles, California. Mazi is focused on the intersection of science, technology, and storytelling. Under his leadership, Inhance has built a global reputation for content generation, user experience creation, visual effects, and immersive storytelling. Inhance works across a wide range of industries where their work finds application in museums, trade shows, executive briefing centers, and other types of experiences. Mazi is from the Middle East, but is an American now, having worked and traveled extensively around the world. He has a fantastic understanding of cultural differences and how those impact business, interpersonal relationships, and the design of experiences. He is passionate about technology, experiences, and entertainment. Jeff and Mazi talk about how culture plays into design of interactives and storytelling. They take a deeper look at the differences between basic translation and localization. Mazi stresses the importance of having locals to help craft the story – understanding the connotations of the local language, colloquialisms, and sensitivities to various topics and issues. He explains how most of their projects are designed to be used across a spectrum of different cultures. Mazi talks how the most effective experiences are those in which the digital and interactive elements are seamlessly integrated into the physical architectural spaces; some refer to this as phygital. Both elements are critically important. But they need to be fully understood, appreciated, and designed together to achieve this level of integration.    Looking into the future, Mazi talks about how the metaverse will change the way we go about our daily lives. He talks about how the technology itself may become more transparent in some ways: more integrated into everything but less obviously visible. He indicates that we are just on the precipice of an exciting new era in technology – one which has the potential to improve humanity in ways that we have yet to see. This could help us build a better world – improving communications, awareness, healthcare, and the environment, just to name a few! Jeff asks Mazi about what makes Inhance truly unique in their work, as they have achieved an outstanding reputation in the past twenty-plus years. He notes that being in Hollywood helps them to attract some of the best talent in this world. Many of their team members work in feature films, visual effects (VFX), and as AAA game developers. They are distinctly client focused, nimble, and fast in their development.   Inhance Digital is an award-winning interactive agency that helps tell complex stories. Their services span content generation, visual effects, physical brand activation/immersive experiences, and virtual brand exhibits and events. Inhance is at the forefront of delivering custom, cutting-edge interactive experiences for both in-person brand activations as well as virtual and online customer engagement. This interview was recorded live at EXHIBITORLIVE in Las Vegas, Nevada with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maziar-farzam-2695718/ Website: https://www.inhance.com/ www.globalexhibitor.com

    31 min
  6. 12/02/2022

    How Mark Johnson is Shaping the Exhibition Industry

    Industry veteran Mark Johnson is re-shaping the world of exhibitions with his deep passion, foresight, and encompassing vision for the future. Mark has garnered significant attention with his recent acquisitions of EXHIBITOR Group, as well as Featherlite Exhibits. In this episode, host Jeff Hannah asks Mark about his acquisition of EXHIBITOR Group, and how he is re-imagining the future of it. Mark introduces Dan Raynak as the new CEO/President of EXHIBITOR Group, and talks about the unique and ongoing mission for the company. Mark’s fiery passion for the exhibition industry can be felt as he discusses a more inclusive future for EXHIBITOR – with the introduction of additional tools and resources. Mark also discusses the outlook for EXHIBITORLIVE 2023 and beyond, including future potential show locations. EXHIBITOR is widely recognized as a producer of educational conferences – and is exploring ways to build upon this globally recognized brand – including potential international expansion of educational programming and CTSM Certification. EXHIBITOR and the EDPA (Experiential Designers & Producers Association) have recently formed a partnership to provide ongoing professional education to EDPA members through EXHIBITOR's Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) program. Mark Johnson is the Founder / CEO of Star Exhibits & Environments, and also owns several other companies. Mark built an outstanding reputation in the exhibition industry through decades of international work and leadership in industry associations such as EDPA and IFES. He was formerly President (2005) of EDPA (Experiential Designers & Producers Association). He was involved in the creation of the EDPA Foundation, where he continues to serve as Treasurer. He was instrumental in supporting and promoting IFES (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services) over the years in various ways. Mark has been instrumental in the exhibit design education programs at both Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and Bemidji State University (BSU), from the early stages of development to current day. In 2021, Mark was honored as one of the Ten Most Admired CEOs by the MSP Business Journal. EXHIBITOR Group is the global leader in trade show and corporate event marketing education. EXHIBITOR does this through many platforms, including: EXHIBITOR Magazine, EXHIBITORLIVE, the Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) program, EXHIBITOR FastTrak, EXHIBITOR eTrak, and others. A leading global marketing solutions provider, Star Exhibits and Environments values a customer-intimate approach, lasting partnerships, powerful strategic direction, and consistent execution. Star's comprehensive design, fabrication, installation, and property management services support trade show, retail, corporate interior, event and selling environment initiatives. This interview was recorded live at EXHIBITOR FastTrak in Providence, Rhode Island, with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markjohnsonstar/ Website: https://www.exhibitoronline.com/index.asp www.globalexhibitor.com

    30 min
  7. 10/11/2022

    Perspectives from an Industry Legend: Benedict Soh

    This is an interview with an industry legend, Bendict Soh, Chairman and Co-Founder of Kingsmen Creative Ltd., based in Singapore. In this episode, host Jeff Hannah and Bendict Soh discuss the return of the industry since the COVID-19 pandemic brought the exhibition industry to a complete halt over two years ago. Shows and events are recovering well, with a number of large corporations hosting their own private customer events and product launches. Ben talks about the importance of face-to-face marketing, and the need as an industry to demonstrate excellent ROI for the client stakeholders. Ben talks about how the trade show industry has evolved over the years, and has excelled at integrating all of the other aspects of technology and marketing. He also talks about how business has changed due to the blending of cultures globally. Jeff asks Ben about the challenges of running a large corporation with offices in many countries. Jeff asks Ben to give advice to people considering a career in this industry. He talks about mentors, sources of inspiration, and about how he got started in this industry. He also talks about the concepts of work/life balance and work/life integration. And, he talks about what he feels is his greatest achievement.  Bendict Soh is internationally known across the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry and amusement park industry segments. Benedict has been awarded the prestigious Hazel Hayes Award, as well as the Lifetime Achievement for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism by the Singapore Tourism Board. Benedict co-founded Kingsmen Creatives over 45 years ago, and is also Chairman. Kingsmen has now gown to 21 offices across major cities in Asia, the Middle East, and the USA, with global headquarters in Singapore. Kingsmen are creators of experience, harnessing the power of creativity and design to tell engaging stories that bring brands to life. Kingsmen delivers seamless, innovative and engaging experiences that connect, engage and empower. From conception to completion, their integrated capabilities built over the last 45 years have enabled them to be the one-stop creative solutions partner, delivering memorable, successful campaigns around the world. This interview was recorded live in Singapore at the Kingsmen Experience, the global headquarter tower of Kingsmen Creative Ltd., in the Changi District of Singapore, with host Jeff Hannah. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benedict-soh-819b614/ Website: https://www.kingsmen-int.com/ www.globalexhibitor.com

    28 min
  8. 08/04/2022

    Straight Talk from Han Leenhouts (Part 2)

    This is Part 2 of a two-part interview with Han Leenhouts author of Sales & Pepper, based in The Hague (Den Haag), The Netherlands.    This is one of the most fun, exciting, and inspirational episodes that we’ve had on The Global Exhibitor Podcast! In this interview, hosted by Jeff Hannah, you can experience Han’s electric personality, and magnetic passion through his dynamic, engaging, and direct (Dutch) style. The primary focus of this episode is the importance of booth staff selection, training and engagement. In this episode, Jeff asks Han to differentiate between the Dutch culture and mindset in comparison to other countries in Europe. Han talks about what Americans might not understand when working with the Dutch. They talk about the direct communications style, and the importance of being authentic and genuine. Han emphasizes the importance of booth staff training and what the process generally looks like – involving both pre-show training as well as on-site coaching. He talks about setting goals for the show and how to measure where those goals are met. Han elaborates on how asking the “right” questions is an important step in learning how to engage with people you have never met before. The right questions help to quickly qualify your potential leads and determine where to take the conversation. Han is a firm believer in being bold, taking risks, and stepping out of your comfort zone – which is what it takes in order to be really successful in trade show marketing.   As a side note, Jeff and Han briefly discuss perspectives on the war in Ukraine, as well as how Dutch DJ’s compare to others in the world! You don't want to miss that! Han Leenhouts is an internationally acclaimed author, keynote speaker, trainer, and coach in the trade show industry. Han is the author of Sales & Pepper, a book focused on the best ways to engage with people on the trade show floor, in conjunction with an effective exhibit. He is also the author of Peppertalk 2.0, which is focused on open-ended, thought-provoking questions which can be used to effectively engage with others on the show floor. Han owns Sales & Pepper, a training and coaching firm based in The Netherlands. This interview was recorded live in Las Vegas at the luxurious Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, with host Jeff Hannah. Please also join us for Part 1 of this interview with Han Leenhouts.   Email: han@salesandpepper.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanleenhouts/ Website: https://salesandpepper.com/ www.globalexhibitor.com

    23 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

This is the podcast designed to help trade show exhibitors succeed internationally, hosted by Jeff Hannah. You will hear perspectives from many of the most experienced international experts in the industry - each with specific areas of focus, covering a broad range of topics including international marketing strategies, cross-cultural engagement challenges, experience design, communication tips, protocol recommendations, negotiation approaches, logistics help, and many others.

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