Advertise on podcast: Event Experience

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Dennis Walters, Founder and CEO of Interactive Dallas, to explore how AI is reshaping live event activations. Dennis shares the company's evolution from a single digital graffiti wall to a full suite of interactive experiences. He explains how listening to client needs and embracing emerging tech, like AI-driven photography and real-time personalization, has kept Interactive Dallas on the cutting edge of experiential marketing. Listeners will hear how AI tools can streamline event workflows, boost creativity, and personalize attendee experiences. Dennis also offers real-world insights into execution challenges, the future of human-AI collaboration, and why thoughtful innovation is key to sustainable event success. What you'll learn: How AI enables real-time, creative event activations like instant photo edits and custom experiences Why listening to client needs leads to better, on-brand experiential solutions Tips for using AI tools, like ChatGPT, for planning, content creation, and improving event engagement For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-event-activations-interactive-dallas 

In this episode of Event Experience, host Rachel Moore sits down with Ethan Dowie, founder and CEO of Indigo Promotions, to unpack what makes event merchandise truly memorable. From his roots in nonprofit event planning to building a go-to merch agency for top brands, Ethan shares how swag can evolve from a throwaway freebie into a strategic engagement tool. You'll hear how Ethan helps clients shift from transactional vendor relationships to creative, consultative partnerships. He explains why swag should be treated as the "icing on the cake"—not the afterthought—and how reverse-engineering your merch strategy around specific goals (like social sharing or post-event brand recall) leads to more effective, high-impact giveaways. Whether it's designing diamond-studded charms for VIPs or using print-on-demand to reduce waste and increase personalization, Ethan offers insights into what's next for event swag: quality over quantity, tech-forward fulfillment, and audience-first thinking. Here's what you'll hear about in this conversation: Merch is the icing, not the cake. It should enhance the event, not carry it, and align with your event's core goals. Start with the outcome. Reverse-engineer your merch strategy based on what action or feeling you want from attendees. Know your audience. The best merch isn't what you think is cool, it's what resonates with your specific crowd. Print-on-demand is on the rise. It reduces waste, lowers risk, and allows for more personalization and last-minute ordering. Unique merch makes a statement. From limited-edition VIP items to wearable conversation starters, personalization and quality matter more than ever. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-merchandise-indigo-promotions

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes back Chris Duke, Head of Brand Experiences at Glean, for a conversation on how AI is reshaping the events industry. Drawing on his experience leading global activations, Chris explains how event professionals can adopt an AI-first mindset to boost productivity, enhance workflows, and unlock new creative possibilities without losing the human touch. The discussion covers actionable strategies for integrating AI into daily event planning tasks, overcoming skepticism, and building team-wide confidence in using these tools. Chris dives into how context-rich prompts yield better results, the rise of image and video generation, and the importance of cross-functional collaboration when working with AI. Listeners will walk away with practical ideas for experimenting with technology and growing their impact in an increasingly AI-powered industry. What you'll learn: How AI tools can elevate strategy, productivity, and creativity in event planning, without replacing human input. What it takes to build an AI-first culture through experimentation, support, and team learning. Why structured prompts and clear context lead to better AI outcomes, from messaging to event design. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-event-planning-tools-glean  

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore is joined by Chris Duke, Head of Brand Experiences at Glean, for an AI-powered masterclass designed specifically for event professionals. Based on a popular webinar, this conversation dives into practical ways AI can transform the event planning process, from writing campaign briefs and automating reports to visualizing booth designs and analyzing post-event feedback. Chris shares real-world workflows using tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gamma, demonstrating how event marketers can streamline tasks, generate professional assets from simple inputs, and scale their impact. Learn how to build AI agents, prompt effectively, and safeguard sensitive data, all while embracing AI as a creative and strategic partner. What you'll learn: How to automate campaign briefs, session titles, booth mockups, and more using AI Why prompt clarity and data privacy matter in enterprise settings Real examples of using AI for event analytics, reporting, and visual storytelling For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ai-for-event-professionals-glean  

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, Quinn Burnell, a seasoned hospitality and entertainment leader with experience in cruise lines and luxury events, dives into the power of emotional intelligence and authenticity in creating memorable guest experiences. He unpacks what today's attendees, especially Gen Z, truly value: feeling safe, seen, and emotionally connected. Quinn shares how spontaneous moments of awe and genuine care can elevate an event beyond logistics, and why leaders must first care for their teams to deliver standout service. Drawing from global hospitality practices, he urges planners to design events that feel personal and culturally attuned, not just trendy. What you'll learn: Why authentic hospitality is about emotional connection, not just service How team wellbeing directly impacts guest experiences Practical tips for designing emotionally resonant event spaces For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: http://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/authentic-hospitality-gen-z-quinn-burnell  Enjoyed this content? Subscribe to Bizzabo's newsletter and get insights like these delivered straight to your inbox.

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Daniel Charles, founder of Codarity, a performance marketing agency tailored for the events industry. Daniel shares how he transitioned from music A&R and event production into helping event businesses escape the feast-or-famine revenue trap. He breaks down the Evergreen Event Profit System, a framework that helps creative professionals generate consistent income year-round. From defining ideal client personas to implementing smart automation and lead-nurturing systems, Daniel reveals how event planners can build a sustainable pipeline without sacrificing their creative edge. Rachel and Daniel explore common mistakes like relying too heavily on referrals, neglecting analytics, and vague customer targeting. Instead, Daniel champions a data-informed, content-driven approach that blends creativity with scalability, using automation and AI to attract high-quality leads and convert them more reliably. What you'll learn: Why seasonal referrals aren't enough, and what to do instead How automation and AI can help you scale authentic, effective marketing The importance of dialing in your ideal client persona for long-term growth For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/codarity-predictable-event-revenue  

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Dan Bolton, Head of Marketing at Wealth.com, to explore how micro events are reshaping the event marketing landscape. Dan shares why these smaller, more intimate gatherings deliver stronger relationships, higher engagement, and measurable results, serving as powerful complements to large-scale conferences. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the "why" behind each event, tailoring experiences to audience needs, and tapping into local expertise. The conversation also highlights the post-event follow-up process as a key to building lasting, trust-based connections, shifting the focus from transactional to relational event design. Dan dives into how Wealth.com integrates AI across the event lifecycle, from analyzing attendee data and personalizing content to streamlining post-event communication. He explains how AI enhances efficiency while freeing up teams to focus on creativity and connection, echoing a company-wide push to embed AI into everyday workflows. Packed with insights for both new and seasoned planners, this episode offers a practical, forward-looking take on how AI, hospitality, and thoughtful design can transform micro events into a marketer's secret weapon. What you'll learn: Why micro events foster deeper engagement and enhance large event strategies. How to plan micro events by starting with purpose, not logistics. Ways AI can streamline attendee analysis, follow-up, and feedback, freeing time for relational work. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/micro-events-ai-wealthcom

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore explores how micro events, paired with AI, are transforming the way event professionals drive engagement and ROI. Guests Amanda-Lynn Porta and Dan Bolton dive deep into the strategic benefits of small-format experiences, from higher returns and richer personalization to stronger community connections. You'll learn how AI tools simplify planning, automate manual tasks, and unlock scalable personalization. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of thoughtful guest selection, cross-functional alignment between sales and marketing, and obsessing over event details for maximum impact. Key themes include the shift from large conferences to intimate micro events, the power of local, consistent activations, and how to iterate over time for long-term success. Amanda-Lynn and Dan share actionable advice on using platforms like Bizzabo to design repeatable, personalized experiences, and why micro events may be the most powerful tool in your event marketing toolkit. What you'll learn Why micro events often outperform large conferences on ROI, engagement, and community. How AI helps streamline event planning and deliver tailored attendee experiences. Tips for selecting the right audience, aligning teams, and scaling programs efficiently. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit:  www.bizzabo.com/podcast/scaling-micro-event-strategies-ai

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes back Hugh Forrest, longtime leader of South by Southwest, to explore his latest venture: Gather & Grow Experiences. Drawing on over 35 years in the events industry, Hugh shares how he's helping organizations design smaller, experience-driven gatherings that spark connection and elevate civil discourse. They dive into the shift from massive events to more intentional, human-focused experiences, especially in Austin's changing event landscape. Hugh also shares his work consulting for events that empower underrepresented communities and his approach to building impactful international programs. Listeners will take away valuable insights on why face-to-face interaction still matters and how thoughtful planning leads to more meaningful event outcomes. What You'll Learn: Why face-to-face interactions foster a deeper community than digital platforms How intimate events can create more value than large-scale productions The importance of long-term planning and iterative improvement in event design For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/gather-grow-experiences-intimate-events  

In this episode of Event Experience, host Rachel Moore sits down with Logan Clements and Mary Davidson, leaders behind the Better Events Podcast and seasoned event professionals. Once competitors, they now collaborate to create content, share strategies, and support one another, offering a fresh perspective on how community can outshine competition. They dive into how the events industry is evolving in 2025: shorter lead times, ever-higher attendee expectations, and a growing demand for wellness, accessibility, and sustainable experiences. Together, Logan and Mary discuss how they built a partnership, their approaches to content creation, and even share their favorite event footwear. Throughout the conversation, they stress the importance of reconnecting with your "why," collecting robust post-event feedback, and iterating on lessons learned, so your events stay relevant and impactful as the industry moves toward 2026. What you'll hear about in this episode: How collaboration with other event pros can accelerate growth Meeting rising attendee expectations around wellness, accessibility, and sustainability Using post-event feedback and documentation to evolve your event strategy For the transcript, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-planning-collaboration-better-events

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore is joined by Gianna Gaudini, Fractional Head of Events at Cognition, to explore how modern event planning is evolving—and why emotional connection is now at the core of successful experiences. Drawing on her 22+ years in the industry, Gianna unpacks the shift from traditional, tactical events to purpose-driven, human-centric experiences. She shares actionable insights on designing events that spark connection, support team well-being, and deliver measurable business impact. From embracing multisensory design and spontaneity to aligning ROI with strategic goals, Gianna offers a blueprint for building events that resonate long after they end. You'll also hear her candid thoughts on leadership, team culture, and why psychological safety is the foundation of sustainable success in the high-pressure events world. In this episode, you'll learn: Why intentional event design and multisensory experiences drive deeper audience engagement How leadership can model wellness and build psychological safety in high-stress teams How to define, track, and optimize ROI that aligns with business outcomes For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit our website: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/experiential-event-planning-cognition

In this episode of Event Experience, host Rachel Moore chats with Nicole Nichols, a veteran event and meeting planner at ISG with over 20 years of industry experience. Nicole shares how today's most effective events are intentionally designed to be transformative, not just transactional. She emphasizes the importance of understanding attendee needs, gathering real-time feedback, and crafting meaningful experiences that extend beyond the event itself. Nicole also explores how AI can be a powerful amplifier, helping planners analyze data and personalize journeys, while reinforcing the human connection that defines successful events.  Her advice for fellow professionals? Stay curious, keep leveling up, and embrace continuous learning to prove the lasting impact of events. Key Highlights: Why event planners must shift from content delivery to experience design How to use AI to enhance, not replace, human connection at events The role of micro communities and intentional touchpoints in attendee journeys Real-world tips for continuous improvement and justifying the ROI of events For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/transformative-event-design-isg

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down with Ghazwan Almoazen, Director of Global Events Demand Generation and Communications at DocuSign, to explore how event marketers can create experiences that truly resonate. Ghazwan reveals what it takes to cut through the noise in today's competitive events landscape, where empathy, creativity, and strategy collide. From harnessing the star power of celebrity speakers to designing interactive live demos, he shares how to transform events into powerful demand-generation engines. You'll hear his candid perspective on the role of AI in event planning, not as a replacement for human expertise, but as a supportive teammate that frees professionals to focus on connection and creativity. Plus, Ghazwan unpacks how incentives, sales enablement, and structured networking can spark meaningful engagement that lasts long after the event ends. Listeners will walk away with fresh insights and practical takeaways for building events that not only boost attendance but also inspire loyalty and lasting relationships. What you'll learn How to build emotional connections that drive attendance and long-term loyalty Ways to leverage interactivity from live demos to structured networking to meet rising attendee expectations Where AI fits in event planning, and why human empathy and expertise remain essential Proven strategies for sales enablement and incentives that maximize engagement across the attendee journey For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/demand-generation-ai-docusign

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes back EJ Oelling, VP of ABX at 6sense, for a powerful conversation on proving event ROI in today's AI-driven landscape. EJ shares how aligning marketing, sales, and customer success around data and technology can transform events into revenue-generating engines. Listeners will learn how to integrate tools like 6sense, Salesforce, Bizzabo, and Jifflenow to track engagement, build pipeline, and tie event activities to tangible outcomes. The discussion dives into trends like the shift to smaller, high-impact activations, the need for internal alignment and enablement, and finding the right balance between AI-driven efficiency and authentic human connection. EJ also offers practical strategies for event professionals, covering tech integration, data organization, and team collaboration, while championing a mindset of continuous growth, self-awareness, and playing to your strengths. Here's what you'll hear about in this conversation: How to use data and integrated tech to connect event engagement to pipeline and prove ROI. Why you should prioritize quality over quantity & target the right audience with high-impact experiences. How to empower internal teams with clear goals, creative tactics, and open communication. For transcripts, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/6sense-event-data-roi

On this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore sits down again with Samantha Arth, Project Manager of Marketing and Events at Axon, to tackle the often tricky world of event registration. Samantha dives into the real challenges event teams face, like last-minute signups, inaccurate data, and scaling personalized support. She shares hard-won insights on designing flexible registration flows, collaborating across departments, and using platforms like Bizzabo to improve both operations and attendee satisfaction. From navigating the differences between B2B and B2C audiences to handling free vs. paid events, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies. Discover how to: Customize registration flows for multi-location or complex events Make paid registration seamless with value-driven messaging and flexible payments Simplify group signups and justify costs with downloadable templates Continuously refine your process with an attendee-first mindset Whether you're planning large conferences or niche webinars, Samantha's advice will help you rethink and elevate your registration strategy. For transcript, mentions, and more, visit: https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/axon-event-registration-tactics