In this week's episode, we revisit with some of our guests from Season 3 of the Better Events podcast to get their take on what is one thing that they want to leave in 2023 and one thing they want to add/start in 2024. It's that time of year for reflection and our guests share their insights, we share our answers, and walk you through a couple of ways you can apply this question to your event business, career, or personal life. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bette...
Dec 06, 2023•24 min•Season 3Ep. 134
Last call for submissions to be a Brain Bites, On-Demand Speaker, at the Better Events Conference! Don't be shy, we want to hear from you and this is a great way to reach all of our attendees at the conference at once and build your brand and voice in the industry. Our Brain Bites series will be an on-demand video bank for all Better Events Conference attendees. Videos will be no longer than 15 minutes, so they're a quick learning opportunity for our listeners, between sessions or while they're ...
Dec 01, 2023•3 min•Season 3Ep. 133
This week we're mixing it up on the podcast and featuring a takeover by past guest and friend of the podcast, Anca Trifan and her friend David T Stevens. Both Anca and David host their own podcasts, Events Demystified and Return on Wellness podcasts and they're passionate both about health and wellness as well as events. They have some expert tips for surviving traveling on the road and keeping your wellness journey going. If you miss Mary and Logan, head over to the Events Demystified feed to l...
Nov 29, 2023•43 min•Season 3Ep. 133
It's that time of year when most people are reflecting on what they're thankful for. Mary and Logan share what makes them grateful for events and then break down the seven different ways you can express gratitude at your events from thanking volunteers or following up with sponsors post-event, they've got you covered. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Listen back to last year's episode on gratitude, Episode 82: https://open.spotify.com/...
Nov 22, 2023•39 min•Season 3Ep. 132
This week, we take you behind the scenes of our planning process for the Better Events Conference. We discuss how we got the idea for the conference, what some of the first key decisions that we had to make with the conference back in September/October, and what surprised us as we started the agenda-building and speaker recruiting process here in November. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee....
Nov 15, 2023•37 min•Season 3Ep. 131
This week, Mary and Logan open up about what they've been struggling with and celebrating over these last few weeks and months of the 2023 event season. They share some of their more stressful moments, realizing their love language with event feedback, discussing why we all need a Smile File and how we can all do hard things. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Logan's Blog about What Crying Can Tell You About Your Job: https://logancleme...
Nov 08, 2023•32 min•Season 3Ep. 130
This week, we're chatting all things audio-visual (A/V). Logan shares what aspects make up an A/V quote, why you should learn how to read it and some of the go-to questions to ask. She'll break down the different items you should include in your A/V or production quote and share a few red flags to be on the lookout for. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference What is a Switcher: https://youtu.be/A16bNZ6UMbA Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.b...
Nov 01, 2023•45 min•Season 3Ep. 129
In this week's episode, Logan & Mary get spoooooky and talk about their horror stories as entrepreneurs and event pros. There's nothing scarier than talking about burnout, scope creep, oversleeping an event, late paying customers, and balancing it all. You'll walk away with lessons learned and how to avoid experiencing these horrors for yourself. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Listen to Part 1 from 2021 (Episode 28): https://open...
Oct 25, 2023•32 min•Season 3Ep. 128
In this week's episode, Mary shares her list of questions she asks any venue when she's selecting one for an event or starting to execute the planning. She'll walk you through the must-ask and some questions you might have wished you'd asked before your last event. SHOW NOTES: Register for the Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Interested in Mary's free venue checklist, send us an email at bettereventspod@gmail.com and we'll send it to you! Buy Us a Coffee Link: htt...
Oct 18, 2023•22 min•Season 3Ep. 127
In this week's episode, we talk all about different types of events and the niches in the event industry. We explore the differences between what we knew when we first started in events and what niches we're leaning towards now. This episode is sponsored by Eventeny - Eventeny is a that platform makes it super easy to manage every aspect of your event using one system, from vendor and volunteer management to selling tickets and creating interactive maps. SHOW NOTES: Access our exclusive deal wit...
Oct 11, 2023•37 min•Season 3Ep. 126
In this week's episode, we chat with Denise Glaser of D&K Events about how to set up and execute onsite event check-in. We discuss the differences between onsite check-in and registration, what you need onsite to set yourself up for success, and what common mistakes we see organizers and hosts make. This episode is sponsored by Eventeny - Eventeny is a that platform makes it super easy to manage every aspect of your event using one system, from vendor and volunteer management to selling tick...
Oct 04, 2023•38 min•Season 3Ep. 125
In this week's episode, we sat down with Cat McDevitt from Eventeny, an all-in-one event management software solution. We dive into her go-to tips for managing exhibitors at your next event and she answers the tough questions like can you have too many exhibitors, how to deal with exhibitors who might not be the right fit, and mistakes to avoid with your exhibitor communication. There's something in here for everyone from managing partners, exhibitors, sponsors, artists, makers, and more. This e...
Sep 27, 2023•36 min•Season 3Ep. 124
Consistency is something that can be a game-changer for your event or business. We dive into what it means to get consistent, examples in our work and personal lives, and how we've bounced back from being inconsistent. We talk about this podcast, content creation, and more so get ready for some ideas on how you can level up your event and business by getting consistent across the board. SHOW NOTES: Register Interest for the 2023 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Bu...
Sep 20, 2023•33 min•Season 3Ep. 123
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan interview Shanondoah Nicholson of the Beyond the BEO podcast about how you can prove value to your event stakeholders. We drill down into the importance of your why, the value of having a planner, and how to handle pushback during the planning process. She shares her experience as an in-house planner and how she interacts with the different stakeholders at her company. Whether you're independent, in-house, or working at an agency, there's something for you ...
Sep 13, 2023•35 min•Season 3Ep. 122
Get ready to dive into the financial side of the event industry. We break down several sample event budgets from production costs to catering, decor, and more. Join us as we reveal invaluable insights on how to gauge if you're allocating the right amount for your event and share expert money-saving tips and budget-friendly tricks that every event pro should know. SHOW NOTES: Register Interest for the 2023 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Buy Us a Coffee Link: http...
Sep 06, 2023•40 min•Season 3Ep. 121
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan interview Neil Ratliff of City Cocktails, an event bartending company. We talk about what he wishes every event planner knew, how he feels about the amount of ice at events, and several other spicy hot takes. You'll laugh along with us and learn a few things about how you can level up your event beverage experience and avoid some of the common mistakes. SHOW NOTES: Woodstock '99 Documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/81280924 Register to learn more abou...
Aug 30, 2023•39 min•Season 3Ep. 120
This week on the Better Events podcast we take you on a guided tour through the ins and outs of event registration. Join us as we demystify the process, answering fundamental questions such as what event registration entails and which platforms and tools work best for seamless sign-ups. We'll dish out valuable advice on capturing the right information during registration, optimizing the process for a smooth attendee experience, and steering clear of common mistakes that can trip you up. Whether ...
Aug 23, 2023•32 min•Season 3Ep. 119
Join us for an exciting episode where we dive into the world of event fundraising and share expert insights. We'll reveal our favorite fundraising techniques, including raffles, selling items, jewelry grabs, and more. Plus, we'll share invaluable best practices and tips for post-event cultivation, ensuring your hard work pays off even after the event ends. Tune in and unlock the secrets to successful fundraising at your next event! SHOW NOTES: Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/b...
Aug 16, 2023•40 min•Season 3Ep. 118
In this special episode, we turn the tables and take on the challenge of answering 10 thought-provoking questions directly from ChatGPT. Join us as we dive deep into the world of event planning, sharing our insights, experiences, and strategies to navigate the chaos and deliver exceptional events. From handling unexpected emergencies to mastering the art of multitasking, this episode is a must-listen for event planners seeking practical wisdom and advice from industry experts. SHOW NOTES: Regist...
Aug 09, 2023•39 min•Season 3Ep. 117
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan interview Julius Solaris of BoldPush to talk about how we can avoid overcomplicating our events. We tackle four different buckets from content and sponsorship and partnerships to logistics and teamwork and get Julius' take on how we can simplify our event processes. The interview includes are few controversial opinions, future event trends and diving into the importance of staying focused on your why and overall event goals. SHOW NOTES: Learn more about Jul...
Aug 02, 2023•39 min•Season 3Ep. 116
This week we're talking all about how we build our event teams from full-time hires to selecting the right contractors and partners. Discover what we really mean when we say "event teams," and get the inside scoop on how we assemble our squads, whether through formal job descriptions or informal recruiting. We'll dish out the top qualities we look for in team members and reveal potential red flags to watch out for. Plus, we'll share our experiences of having to make tough decisions, including le...
Jul 26, 2023•40 min•Season 3Ep. 115
Ever wonder where the event industry is heading? And how far we've come? In this week's episode, Logan & Mary make predictions for events in the next year and react to their predictions they made back in July 2022. They get some right and get others wrong but definitely have some fun and learning along the way. They also make a big announcement about the podcast happenings in the next year! SHOW NOTES: Submit Your Questions for Future Episodes At: https://forms.gle/WycG4uzoTgd75jwZ8 Episode ...
Jul 19, 2023•32 min•Season 3Ep. 114
This week on the podcast, Logan and Mary have some real talk about the realities of being your own boss, whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or you work full-time. Join us as we tackle the no-holds-barred world of problems that keep entrepreneurs up at night, from dealing with unpredictable cash flow to juggling the never-ending demands of running a business. This episode is all about getting real, finding inspiration in the struggle, and learning how to navigate the rollercoaster...
Jul 12, 2023•37 min•Season 3Ep. 113
We love sharing our favorite tips and tricks on the podcast and this week's episode is dedicated to sharing our favorite tools for events, business, tech, and for fun. Learn some of our favorite books, all-star items in our event kits, and other things that are making us happy (hint we threw some food and some music in there!) SHOW NOTES: Most of our favorites are linked below - some of the links are referral links from us and include monetary compensation for Mary and Logan when you use them. I...
Jul 05, 2023•40 min•Season 3Ep. 112
In this week's episode, Logan and Mary are tackling the nitty-gritty of event planning and production, spilling the beans on how to dodge those all-too-common mistakes that can ruin your big day. We'll share our stories and workarounds for how to navigate those common pitfalls and create backup plans to set you up for success. Tune in and save yourself some serious headaches! SHOW NOTES: Join us on Thursday, June 29th at Expo Pass' webinar about " Contingency Planning at Events: What to Do When ...
Jun 28, 2023•42 min•Season 3Ep. 111
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan interview Icie all about his event: The Sitdown UK. We get into the details of how the event came to be, how he focuses on the guest experience, and some of his biggest challenges and secrets to success with this event. Learn more about what it's like to run your own event, the keys to learn and key lessons learned along the way. SHOW NOTES: Join us on Thursday, June 29th at Expo Pass' webinar about " Contingency Planning at Events: What to Do When Things G...
Jun 21, 2023•42 min•Season 3Ep. 110
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan bring you with them onsite for a glimpse behind the scenes at several events they've worked on these past few weeks. Learn more about what it's like to produce nonprofit fundraisers, work with sponsors loading in, and manage a general session, through the eyes of these two event producers. SHOW NOTES: Join us on Thursday, June 29th at Expo Pass' webinar about " Contingency Planning at Events: What to Do When Things Go Wrong?" : https://www.expopass.com/webi...
Jun 14, 2023•28 min•Season 3Ep. 109
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan share the things they wish they could go back and tell their 18-year-old/20-year-old selves. They also share their lessons learned for people who are new to the event industry. The episode is filled with tidbits of career advice and a little bit of fun along the way. SHOW NOTES: Submit Your Questions for Future Episodes At: https://forms.gle/WycG4uzoTgd75jwZ8 —— Visit our new website at https://www.bettereventspod.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST: Buy us a coffee: ...
Jun 07, 2023•31 min•Season 3Ep. 108
In this episode, we sit down with Hilary Laney of TPN to explore the event industry's unique challenges when it comes to managing stress. Hilary shares her experience of the moment when she realized stress management was crucial for her career and she provides strategies and practical tips to help event planners navigate the high-pressure environment of organizing successful events while prioritizing their mental well-being. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the event industry seeking ...
May 31, 2023•36 min•Season 3Ep. 107
In this week's episode, Mary and Logan discuss one of the current challenges facing the event industry: staffing shortages. Learn more about what we've been seeing on the ground at events, what some of the reasons are and some of our proposed solutions for how you can keep working with the best in the business.. SHOW NOTES: Submit Your Questions for Future Episodes At: https://forms.gle/WycG4uzoTgd75jwZ8 —— Visit our new website at https://www.bettereventspod.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST: Buy us a c...
May 24, 2023•25 min•Season 3Ep. 106
