Denver NACE Podcast

Talent Talks

A band can be incredible and still be a bad booking if the details are messy. We’re joined by Denver entertainment agent Terri Fisher of Five Star Talent and Entertainment, who has spent 26 years helping event planners land the right talent and helping performers show up like true pros. Terri breaks down what “full service entertainment” actually means, from musicians and DJs to comedians, dueling pianos, specialty acts, and the unusual requests that make guests talk long after the night ends.  We walk step by step through her real-world booking process: what she needs on the first call, why she insists on a personal conversation, and how she builds proposals based on actual availability instead of sending generic lists. Terri also explains why paperwork is not just admin, it is protection. Clear contracts, timelines, attire notes, check-in contacts, parking, meals, and water sound small until you are the one loading gear, managing a ballroom flip, or trying to save a show when something goes sideways.  If you’re a musician, DJ, or bandleader, you’ll hear exactly what gets you hired again and again: professionalism, current media, a brand that fits corporate events and weddings, consistent performance, and staying visible without being pushy. If you’re an event planner, we dig into why working with an agency can save time, reduce risk, and create backup plans for snowstorms, sickness, and last-minute surprises. We close with networking advice through NACE and why long-term relationships beat short-term hustling.  Subscribe for more conversations with Denver event pros, share this with a colleague who books entertainment, and leave a review with the one detail you think most people still underestimate.

Building A Creative Brand That Lasts

What if your brand felt less like a flash and more like a steady glow? We sit down with filmmaker and CEO Devin Scheer to trace his path from borrowing his dad’s cameras to running hundreds of shoots a year—and why he’s rebranding All Digital Photo and Video to Emberlight Media. Devin opens up about the lessons only live events can teach: cohesive crews that move as one, communication that prevents chaos, and the discipline to walk away from bad-fit clients before they drain your team. We get practical about growth that lasts. Devin shares how he balanced a heavy wedding and corporate calendar with retainer-based commercial work to smooth out seasonality and keep the creative muscles strong year-round. Instead of pouring money into ads, he bets on people—sponsoring NACE and other industry associations, showing up, and letting trust compound over time. If you’ve wondered whether networking still matters in a digital-first world, his results make a compelling case. Then we pull back the curtain on Emberlight: a brand built by the current team to reflect who they are—warm, reliable, and enduring. The rebrand pairs thoughtful identity work with a deep systems refresh, smarter software, and a service mix that spans modern efficiency and nostalgic charm, including film and Super 8 for clients who want texture and soul. Devin also breaks down the “unattainable triangle” of speed, quality, and price, and why the smartest play for creatives is to deliver the best overall value instead of chasing the impossible. If you lead a creative business, work in events, or you’re ready to level up from talented freelancer to trusted partner, this conversation is a field guide. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs the push, and leave a review with the one idea you’re stealing for your workflow. To Learn More About Emberlight Media: www.emberlightmedia.com @emberlightmedia.co

Beyond the Music: How Silent Disco Transforms Event Experiences

Rethinking Event Audio with Jason Gorley of CiferNoise Productions What if you could run multiple sessions in one room without competing sound systems or confused guests? In this episode, Jason Gorley, founder of CiferNoise Productions, shares how silent disco technology goes far beyond dance parties. From multilingual conferences to interactive workshops, he explains how wireless headphones create flexible, immersive experiences for all kinds of events. If you're looking for creative ways to cut venue costs, accommodate diverse audiences, or offer personalized programming, this conversation is full of practical insights and inspiration. Check out this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/22ddqEMp0UY

Beyond the Algorithm: Finding Your Voice in a Sea of Digital Sameness

Elizabeth Marberry gets it—and she’s flipped the script. By leaning into authentic Instagram marketing, she grew her wedding dance coaching biz by 84%—without spending a dime on ads. In this episode, she shares how wedding and event pros can stop hiding behind perfection, connect with the right audience, and show up with confidence. Her secret? It’s not algorithms—it’s you. 💡 With simple strategies, client wins (hello, 2.5K → 34K followers!), and a fresh take on visibility, Elizabeth proves that social media success is less about being polished—and more about being real. Want more of Elizabeth's insights? See her live at our NACE Denver Lunch and Learn this June! Details available at www.nacedenver.com 🎧 Tune in to her podcast Strut It or learn more at elizabethmarberry.com Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/PvSC_eFUZ_8

Why Every Planner Needs a DMC: Insights from Scotty O'Brien as he launches his own DMC

Scotty discusses his diverse experiences and shares insights into the importance of DMCs in creating exceptional event experiences and why he's started his own DMC. - Introduction to Scotty O'Brien and his background in the events industry - Definition and purpose of a Destination Management Company (DMC) - The role of DMCs in corporate event planning - Insights into launching a DMC: Partner DMC - Importance of collaboration and networking in the events industry - Creating unforgettable experiences for clients and attendees