In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore interviews Lauren Sorensen, the Director of Brand Experience at Bizzabo. They discuss the current state of the events industry, the importance of brand in event planning, and how Bizzabo is fostering connections through their events.

Lauren shares insights on avoiding common pitfalls in event planning, emphasizing the need for collaboration and leveraging technology to streamline processes. She also highlights Bizzabo's efforts to create meaningful connections through their Bizzy Building Connections series, aiming to support and connect event professionals in authentic ways.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• Why event planners should focus on creating personal and authentic connections at their events.

• How utilizing tools and technology can significantly streamline the event planning process and improve efficiency.

• Why incorporating strong branding and storytelling into events can enhance the overall experience and make it more memorable for attendees.

• Lauren Sorenson

• Bizzabo

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-industry-trends-bizzabo 

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes Katie McIntyre, Director of Strategy and Event Technology at Opus, to discuss the evolving landscape of event planning. They explore the increasing trend of last-minute registrations and how event planners can incentivize early sign-ups through strategies like first-comers, passes, and early access to session catalogs.

Katie McIntyre shares insights on the importance of experiential elements in events, especially for technology clients, to make abstract concepts more tangible and memorable. She emphasizes the need for events to be less transactional and more engaging, allowing attendees to have an organic interaction with the brand. The conversation also touches on the significance of understanding attendee needs and aligning them with brand goals to ensure successful and meaningful event experiences.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• Why you should incentivize early registration by offering exclusive access to content or limited discounts to combat last-minute sign-ups.

• How experiential elements in events can make abstract concepts tangible and memorable, enhancing attendee engagement.

• Why understanding and aligning brand goals with attendee needs is crucial for creating meaningful event experiences.

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-registration-trends-opus

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore introduces a special webinar featuring industry veterans Colleen Bisconti from IBM, Katie McIntyre from Opus, and Suzette Wilson Samuels from Drury Design. The discussion focuses on the 2025 State of Events and Industry Benchmarks report, covering topics such as the rise of in-person events, the importance of immersive experiences, sustainability in event planning, and leveraging micro events and webinars to enhance attendee engagement and knowledge retention.

The panelists share insights on the challenges and opportunities in the event industry, emphasizing the importance of creating authentic, immersive experiences and the role of technology in enhancing event strategies. They also discuss the significance of micro events and field marketing in supporting larger B2B events, and the evolving role of webinars as a digital tactic. The conversation highlights the need for intentionality, data-driven decision-making, and strategic partnerships to drive successful event outcomes.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• How in-person events are considered the most impactful marketing channel, with 78% of organizers agreeing on their effectiveness.

• How sustainability remains a top priority for attendees, with 18% indicating it as their main concern when attending events.

• How micro events and field marketing are crucial for success, with 64% of organizers planning to use them to support larger events.

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit  www.bizzabo.com/podcast/2025-event-industry-benchmarks

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, Rachel Moore interviews Adam Palleschi, managing director of BB Blanc, about his journey from technician to director, the evolving role of technology in events, and the importance of sustainability in AV production. They discuss the impact of AI on event planning and the significance of human interaction in any event experience.

Adam Palleschi shares insights into how AI and AR are being used in the events industry, emphasizing the importance of using technology to augment rather than replace human interaction. He also highlights the need for creativity in event planning and the benefits of sharing budgets with AV teams to maximize value and enhance the overall event experience.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• How AI can enhance event experiences by aiding in messaging, networking, and learning but should not overshadow the human element.

• How sustainability in AV production is advancing with technologies like LED lighting, reducing emissions and waste.

• Why event planners should involve AV teams early in the planning process and share budgets to maximize creative potential and event impact.

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-ar-sustainability-events-bb-blanc

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes Bethany Murphy, the Head of Events at 6sense, to discuss her extensive experience in event planning and marketing. They explore current trends in the event industry, including the integration of AI, the importance of non-alcoholic beverage options, and how to infuse fun into brand experiences.

Bethany shares insights on how to manage event budgets effectively, emphasizing the importance of real-time updates, contingency planning, and transparency with finance teams. She also offers advice for event planners working with more conservative brands on how to incorporate trends and creativity while staying true to their brand identity.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• Ideas for incorporating fun and trendy activations like mocktails and oxygen bars to create memorable event experiences.

• The importance of regularly updating and managing your event budget to ensure financial success and transparency with your team and executives.

• How to leverage your professional network and attend industry events to build relationships and gain insights from other event professionals.

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-trends-budgets-6sense

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes Brandon Wernli, CEO of BW Events Tech, to discuss the evolving landscape of event technology. They explore the importance of understanding client needs, selecting the right tools, and the practical application of technology in real-world events.        

Brandon shares insights on tech adoption in events, highlighting a real-world example involving augmented reality and AI to enhance attendee experience. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear strategy, budget considerations, and the value of pilot testing new technologies before full-scale implementation.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• How understanding your event's strategy and goals helps you to select the right technology stack.

• How emerging technologies like augmented reality can enhance attendee experience and solve real-world challenges.

• How to prepare contingency plans for technology deployments to ensure seamless execution even if issues arise.

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/bw-events-tech-attendee-experience

In this episode of the Event Experience podcast, industry experts discuss the trends that will shape events in 2025, focusing on experiential learning, immersive events, and networking opportunities. The panelists, including Bethany Murphy, Erica Spoor, and Brandon Wernli, share insights on how these trends can be integrated into event planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding audience preferences and leveraging technology to enhance attendee experiences.

The conversation also explores the role of AI in event planning, highlighting its potential to personalize and streamline event experiences. The panelists discuss the challenges and opportunities of adopting new technologies, stressing the need for careful planning and audience engagement. They also touch on the significance of micro-events and gamification, considering their long-term impact on the industry. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for event planners looking to stay ahead of emerging trends.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• How to enhance personalization and engagement with AI

• The importance of understanding your attendees to optimize your events

• How to use technology with event goals and prevent potential issues

• Bethany Murphy

• 6sense

• Erica Spoor

• Sparks

• Brandon Wernli

• BW Events Tech

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-trends-2025-experts

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes Sydney Melin, Executive Director of Audience and Community Marketing at Forbes, to discuss the role of event technology in enhancing attendee experiences. Sydney shares insights on how Forbes uses event tech to streamline processes and improve engagement, highlighting the importance of integrating technology to provide a seamless experience for attendees.

Sydney Melin emphasizes the significance of using event technology not only for event management but also to enhance the attendee experience. She shares examples from Forbes' events, such as the CMO Summit, where they achieved an 80% app adoption rate, demonstrating the effectiveness of using a centralized platform for session registration and communication. Sydney also discusses the potential of AI in post-event communication to maintain engagement and improve future events.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• How to utilize event technology to enhance attendee experiences and streamline communication.

• The importance of regularly reassessing and updating your event tech to ensure it meets current needs and capabilities.

• How to engage with attendees post-event using personalized content and AI-driven tools to maintain community and gather feedback.

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/forbes-event-technology

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizabo, host Rachel Moore interviews Sarah Reuter, CEO of Elevate Travel Company, about her experiences and insights in the event industry. Sarah discusses the shift towards providing non-alcoholic options at events and the importance of mindfulness in both professional and personal lives. 

Sarah shares her personal journey with alcohol and addiction, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and healthier lifestyle choices at events. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of event planning, where offering a variety of options, including adhering to dietary restrictions and offering non-alcoholic beverages, is becoming increasingly important to cater to diverse attendee needs.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• The events industry is increasingly focusing on providing food and beverage options to cater to healthier lifestyle choices and inclusivity.

• Sharing personal experiences with alcohol and addiction can empower others to be open about their own experiences, reducing stigma and promoting inclusivity in event planning.

• The industry is evolving to offer more varied food and drink options, allowing attendees with different needs the ability to enjoy social aspects without feeling singled out or pressured to consume alcohol.

Sarah Reuter

Elevate Travel Company

Jessica Zweig

The Feminine Frequency Business School

Club Ichi

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/elevate-travel-company-non-alcoholic-events

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore interviews Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, about the recent IMEX America event. Carina discusses the unique aspects of the event, including the introduction of a Brand Experience Summit aimed at bridging the gap between marketers and the events industry and the importance of community-led events that enhance the overall experience for attendees.

Carina emphasizes the significance of building a network within the events industry and the need for event planners to prioritize their time effectively. She highlights the value of partnerships in delivering specialized programs and the importance of creating personalized experiences for different sectors of attendees. The episode also touches on the long-term strategic goals of IMEX and the importance of innovation and incremental improvement in the events industry.

Carina Bauer is passionate about the business events sector and its impact on the world, taking a particular interest in issues around sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and mentoring the leaders of tomorrow. Carina also takes a keen interest in leadership development, and organizational best practices and culture.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation:

• Learn the importance of building a network in the events industry to avoid feeling isolated and to gain support from peers.

• Hear how IMEX America focuses on creating a community-led event experience, allowing attendees to craft unique micro experiences within the larger event.

• Understand the significance of stepping back to prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring time is spent on the most impactful work for event planners.

Carina Bauer

IMEX Group

Julius Solaris

Miguel Neves

Skift

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/imex-carina-bauer-community-innovation

In this conversation, Rachel Moore and Ashley Casal delve into the intricacies of event planning, focusing on budgeting and financial forecasting. Ashley shares her expertise in managing event logistics, emphasizing the importance of understanding costs, setting realistic budgets, and communicating effectively with stakeholders. The discussion also covers the significance of vendor relationships, the necessity of organization in budgeting, and practical advice for new event planners. Throughout the conversation, Ashley highlights the need for flexibility and creativity in maximizing event experiences while managing costs.

Ashley Casal is the Director of In-Person Events at Catalyst, where she excels in crafting immersive event experiences that foster community and drive engagement. Known for her expertise in live event strategy, Ashley brings a creative and results-focused approach to connecting audiences with Catalyst's mission. Her shoes of choice for the all-day events are Cole Haan Oxfords. 

Takeaways

• Financial Planning: Budget forecasting is essential for estimating financial needs and understanding ROI to make informed budgeting decisions.

• Event Management: Setting limits, leveraging sponsors, and investing in technology are crucial for successful event planning and maximization of the event budget.

• Attendee Experience: Food and beverage quality and collecting attendee feedback are vital for a positive attendee experience, which can inform future budgeting decisions.

• Operational Efficiency: Organization and building strong vendor relationships are key to effective budget management and potential cost savings. Flexibility in budgeting is necessary to adapt to changing costs.

Ashley CasalCatalyst

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/beyond-the-budget-ashley-casal