Event Experience

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore interviews David Grass, Senior Director of Client Strategy and Marketing at Wilson Dow, about the findings from their pop culture trends report. The discussion explores how event planners can move beyond transactional experiences to create transformative, fan-driven events by leveraging data, understanding audience emotional connections, and curating year-round journeys that foster true fandom rather than mere attendance.  Key insights from the conversation include the shift from FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) to JOMO (Joy of Missing Out), the importance of cost and value proposition in attendee decision-making, the role of invisible technology in enhancing event experiences, and the need to cater to multi-generational audiences through data-driven, personalized journeys. The episode emphasizes bringing greater intention and emotional resonance to event design, using data and technology as supportive tools to create a meaningful, lasting impact for attendees. Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation: * Event planners should focus on creating curated, year-round journeys that foster emotional connections and turn attendees into true fans. * Leveraging data before, during, and after events enables more personalized experiences and helps address generational and individual attendee needs. * The most impactful event technology is often invisible, seamlessly removing friction and enhancing the attendee experience without being the center of attention. For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/transformative-event-experiences-wilson-dow [https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/transformative-event-experiences-wilson-dow]

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore is joined by a panel of event professionals to discuss the future of event networking. Oren Berkovich, Co-founder of Projectory, Haley Guerin, Director of Events and Venue at Capital Factory, Will Curran, Brand Ambassador at Bizzabo, and Katie Noe, Product Marketing Manager at Bizzabo. The conversation explores common networking challenges at events, such as lack of structure, awkward icebreakers, and accessibility issues, and emphasizes the importance of intentional design, inclusivity, and leveraging technology like AI and smart badges to facilitate meaningful connections for both introverts and extroverts. The panelists share practical strategies for creating engaging and accessible networking environments, including curated matchmaking, clear networking paths, and integrating technology to track and enhance interactions. They also discuss measuring networking ROI through both quantitative and qualitative data, the role of psychology in fostering connections, and the challenges of hybrid event networking. The episode concludes with actionable insights for event planners to ensure networking is a highlight that keeps attendees coming back. Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation: * Intentional and inclusive networking design is crucial — don't just add 'networking' to the agenda, but create structured, thoughtful opportunities for all personality types. * Leveraging technology like matchmaking tools and smart badges can make networking more accessible, measurable, and engaging for both introverts and extroverts. * Measuring networking success requires both quantitative data (like number of connections and meetings) and qualitative feedback to ensure ROI and improve future event experiences. For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/ [https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-networking-strategies]event-networking-strategies [https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-networking-strategies]

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore welcomes Adam Parry, co-founder of Event Tech Live, to discuss the evolution of event technology, the integration of AI, and the growing importance of sustainability in the events industry. Adam shares insights on the challenges faced by event planners, the significance of upskilling in technology, and the need for supporting small but mighty event teams to ensure long-term success and avoid burnout. The conversation also explores the impact of generational shifts on sustainability priorities, the necessity for events to measure and reduce their environmental impact, and the value of attending Event Tech Live for exposure to the latest innovations and expert thought leadership. Adam highlights the importance of creativity and adaptability in leveraging new technologies like AI, and recommends practical tools such as Wispr Flow to boost productivity for event professionals. Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation: * Why embracing technology and AI is essential for event planners to stay ahead and reduce overwhelm in a rapidly evolving industry. * How sustainability is becoming increasingly important in event planning, with future generations likely to prioritize eco-friendly events when making attendance decisions. * Why investing in team support and upskilling, including learning about new tech tools, is crucial to prevent burnout and ensure long-term event success. For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit: www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-tech-live-ai-sustainability [https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-tech-live-ai-sustainability]

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, host Rachel Moore is joined by industry experts Venita McLemore, EJ Oelling, and Amanda Armstrong to discuss the challenges and strategies for proving ROI in event planning. The panel shares insights on aligning event objectives with business goals, leveraging technology for data-driven decisions, and fostering collaboration with go-to-market teams to enhance event success. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding both ROI and ROE (Return on Emotion) to create impactful events that resonate with attendees and stakeholders. The experts emphasize the need for clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and the use of innovative tools to measure and optimize event outcomes. The episode provides valuable takeaways for event professionals looking to demonstrate the value of their events effectively. Here’s what you’ll hear about in this conversation: * How to engage attendees by offering incentives like 'swag for your thoughts' to gather real-time feedback. * Why you should align event goals with business objectives and ensure all stakeholders are involved in the planning process. * How to use technology and data to measure event success and communicate results effectively to stakeholders. For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-roi-aws-encore-6sense [https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-roi-aws-encore-6sense]

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. Mentioned in this episode * Lauren Sorenson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurashsor/] * Bizzabo [http://www.bizzabo.com] For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-industry-trends-bizzabo [https://www.bizzabo.com/podcast/event-industry-trends-bizzabo]