#EventIcons - Meet The Icons Of The Events Industry (Audio)

Remote Design Week: Planning A 3,000 Person Virtual Conference In 6 Weeks

This week's #EventIcons is all about Remote Design Week. Because now that everyone is jumping into the virtual event bandwagon, this is something we had to talk about. Remote Design Week managed to do exactly what planners everywhere want to do. It was a massive virtual event with over 50 speakers and a whopping 3,000 attendees! And with such a successful event being planned in six weeks, we wanted to know more. More about the planning process. And more about everything it took to make it ha...

Creating Engaging Virtual Event Experiences

Have you been looking everywhere for tips on engaging virtual experiences? And do you feel a bit lost in the midst of all the craziness? Well, you’re not alone! With everything going on in the industry, planners are facing several challenges. But thankfully, not everything is lost. Because thanks to virtual events, planners everywhere can keep on doing what they do best. And that is, of course, bring people together and create amazing experiences. The paradigm might have changed, but if ther...

Working With Committees: Best Practices For Event Profs

Working with committees is something many event planners are familiar with. And anyone who’s been a part of one knows just how complex things can get. So on this week’s episode of #EventIcons, we’ll be providing you with some tactical tips to work inside a committee, on a board, and everything in between. No more miscommunication, no more frustrations, and no more second-guessing yourself. Because after this edition of the podcast, you’ll be left with all the best practices you need to be su...

Sponsorships For Virtual Events: What Path Should You Take?

Today we’re talking about sponsorships for virtual events! Because sponsorships and exhibitions are a huge source of revenue in the industry. But now that planners are trying to figure out how to turn in-person events into virtual ones, things get a little bit confusing. How can they replicate this? What are the best strategies? Overall, is it even possible to create such a thing as sponsorships for virtual events? Well, the short answer is – yes, it is. But in order to help us figure out h...

Canceling An Event: What You Legally Have To Do

Canceling an event is never pleasant. However, considering the current state of things, it’s necessary. And while a lot of planners’ attention is focused on virtual events, a part is also concerned with cancellation. So, what do you have to do? Can you simply send out a mass email? And is that even advisable? Is there any way you can repurpose the costs of your in-person event? These are only some of the questions that have been floating around in the events industry. But we are here to hel...

Event Industry Upskill Initiative

Building Brand Loyalty for Your Event

How Global Meetings Industry Day Went Virtual

Virtual Emcee: How One Can Make Or Break Your Virtual Event!

Now that virtual events are the talk of the town, it’s time to consider a virtual emcee. Especially because one of the biggest concerns with virtual events is audience engagement. So considering a virtual emcee is definitely something you want to do. Not only will one keep your event interesting, but it will also make your audience happier and eager for more. But where to start? And why should you really consider hiring one? What are the tangible benefits brought to the table? To help answe...

How DMP converts in-person event to virtual

The talk of the town in the events industry is converting in-person events to virtual. But where to even begin? Should you choose a platform first? And how do you even figure out pricing? Because this is relatively new, planners everywhere are scrambling to make it work. And we just so happen to have been lucky enough to sit down with Mark Hillenburg. Mark is the VP of Marketing of Digital Monitoring Products (DMP). And boy, does he have some things to teach us! DMP has the art of convertin...

The Sustainable Event Awards: What They Are & Why They Matter

Have you heard about the Sustainable Event Awards? It’s probably old news to you that sustainability is a topic we love discussing. Because we’ve covered it several times here at Endless! And today we’ll be dabbling on it again but in a more exciting way. It’s not just about how to plan sustainable events. But rather, how to push the trend forward and make sure everyone jumps on the bandwagon. And that’s exactly where the Sustainable Event Awards come in. So joining our incredible host Bran...

Events Of The Future: How To Plan A Virtual Event

This week we’re diving into the dozy topic of how to plan a virtual event. And we’re not strangers to futuristic events here at Endless! We’ve covered topics such as how to plan an event without visiting the venue, how Virtual Reality can impact the events industry, and much more. So today, we’re diving deeper. Because we figured it’s high time to actually get into tactical tips related to events that don’t adhere to the in-person model. And learn how to plan a successful virtual event that ...

Remote Work Tips: The Ultimate Guide For A Life On The Road!

It's the episode you've been waiting for, the one packed with remote work tips! Because as event professionals, we spend a good chunk of our time on the road. And in the case of Endless, the entire company is remote. So learning how to balance work with life, fighting isolation, making sure we do our best without working too much are all key aspects to master. And that's exactly what we bring you on this week's edition of #eventicons! Joining Brandt Krueger and Will Curran are Kaitlin Colst...

SEARCH Foundation: By Event Profs, For Event Profs

We're very happy to announce that today we're talking about the SEARCH Foundation. And if you've been following us for a while, you've probably heard of it. But even if you haven't, this is definitely an episode you want to watch. Because the SEARCH Foundation showcases event profs at its best - by getting together and being there for each other. By providing financial aid to events, meetings and catering professionals who are battling very complex illnesses. Because this is a topic so near...

Diversity And Inclusion In Events: Paving The Way For A Better Tomorrow

Welcome to this week's #eventicons, where we'll discuss the topic of diversity and inclusion in events. And if you've been following us for a while, you know this isn't new. Because we find this to be such an important conversation, we've covered it a few times already. However, things like diversity and inclusion in events will always remain extremely important. Plus, we're happy to have as many perspectives as we possibly can on the matter. So joining us today are our lovely hosts Brandt ...

You Come First: Event Planners & Staying Healthy In 2020

Get your green smoothie ready to go, because it’s time to talk about staying healthy in 2020! So, it’s no secret to anyone that event planners have one of the most stressful jobs in the world. And it’s not uncommon for the events industry to be considered one of the most draining. But our health is something we should always prioritize. So much so that we’ve even done an episode in the past tackling the topic of burnout. And is there a better time than the year 2020 to start getting serious ...

EventIcons Ep 201 - 2020 Event Tech Trends That Will Shape The Year

Welcome to another episode of #eventicons, and this time around we’re talking 2020 event tech trends! If you know Endless, you know we love talking about event tech. So much so, we have another podcast entirely dedicated to the topic. And we thought this would be a great opportunity to bring you a crossover episode. In recent past episodes, we covered several 2020 trends in the industry, including marketing and design. So now it’s time for the 2020 event tech trends to shine! Joining our am...

#EventIcons 199: World Class Emcees Can Make Or Break Your Event

Welcome to today’s exciting conversation about MCs for events! And more precisely, how they can make or break your event. Before you join us on this wild ride, make sure you check out one of our previous episodes. It’s all about panels and moderation, and it will serve as a nice prequel for today’s show. Because this week, we’re diving even deeper into the topic of MCs for events. And how you can ensure you choose the absolute best that will help your event be remembered as incredible. Join...

#EventIcons Special: 200 Episodes Of Iconic Conversations!

It’s a very special day because it’s an #EventIcons special! That’s right everyone, we are proud to be here today, celebrating 200 episodes of the show. And if you’ve been following us for a while, you know we’ve recently celebrated four years on the air. But because one celebration simply isn’t enough, we’re taking it one step further. There’s cake, confetti, a live concert…okay, maybe not all of that. But you know what? The stuff we have in store for you is even better than all of that! G...

Live From PCMA Convening Leaders 2020: It's #EventIcons!

This week's edition of #EventIcons comes to you from PCMA Convening Leaders 2020! It all happened in San Francisco between the 5th and 8th of January. And it was the perfect melting pot of event professionals and industry leaders. Networking was the defining word of the event that saw all sorts of people getting together, discussing ideas, and gaining new insights. So, whether or not you got the chance to attend, we're giving you the scoop. And that means all things PCMA and event running r...

#EventIcons 2020 Sneak Peek: New Year, New Content!

It's time for an exciting #EventIcons 2020 sneak peek! Because we're not only diving into a new year, but also a new decade, we decided to give you a taste for what's to come. So, you already know that #EventIcons is the show to pay attention to if you want to know what the icons of the events industry are up to. And we've covered some incredible topics the past year, from crisis communication to event planner burnout, women in events, and many, many more. With four years of incredible epis...

The 2020 Event Design Trends That Will Define The New Year

The trends keep on coming, and today we’re tackling 2020 event design trends! Ahead of the new year, the #EventIcons team is laying down the foundation for what’s to come. And we’ve already covered business and marketing trends, so it’s time to get a little more creative. Design is always one of the most exciting topics we cover on the show. And we can guarantee you that the conversation about the future of design in the industry will keep up that pace. Joining our amazing hosts Alex Plaxen...

2020 Event Marketing Trends: What Will The New Year Bring?

It's time to dive deep into the world of 2020 event marketing trends! Because it's December, the next episodes of #eventicons will focus on what's to come. And, of course, what these trends mean for our industry. So today, we kickstart this series of episodes with 2020 event marketing trends. As event professionals, marketing is an enormous part of what we do. And being on top of what will change and what will remain the same puts us one step ahead in the game. To help us out with this exci...

Celebrating 4 Years Of Iconic Conversations!

Can you believe we’re actually celebrating yet another Event Icons anniversary? And that’s it’s already been four years since Will Curran began this journey? Either way, and whether you’ve been tuning in since 2015 or you just recently found out about the show, we couldn’t be happier that we get to celebrate with you! Four years of iconic guests, four years of creativity, four years of pushing the boundaries of the events industry. And today, we’re doing a round-up of the year 2019. Our ico...

2020 Business Trends and How They Impact Events

We talk a lot about trends this time of year. And in today’s episode of #EventIcons we’re covering 2020 business trends and how they impact our industry. 2020 is the start of a new year, new decade AND an election year. It’s safe to say 2020 is going to be a big year with new trends and we are covering all that and more today on #EventIcons. Helping Linsday and Alex forecast the biggest 2020 business trends is the iconic Mike Dominguez, the President & CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels Intern...

Auctions At Events: What Planners Can Learn From The Experience

And here goes one, here goes two, here goes…auctions at events! Yes, that’s right. In this week’s episode of #eventicons we’re covering this exciting topic. Because event planners can actually learn a lot from expert auctioneers. And especially when it comes to charity events and fundraisers, auctions are experiences the whole industry can extract plenty of ideas from. So sit tight, we’re breaking down everything you should know about auctions at events. And to help us get the most out of t...

How AR And VR For Events Can Revolutionize The Industry

It's time for the coolest conversation ever about AR and VR for events! This topic isn't new for us here at Endless. And the reason we enjoy it so much is because it's slowly but steadily revolutionizing the industry. As event planners, we need to make sure we're always paying attention to the hottest trends out there. And especially those that have the power to improve the attendee experience. So on this week's episode of #EventIcons, we're breaking down all things AR and VR for events. In...

#EventIcons Episode 190-The Power Of Body Language In Events For Networking & Interviewing

On a bit of a different note, today we're exploring body language in events! Because at its core, the events industry is all about people, and relationships between people. Attendees, suppliers, planners - everybody has a part to play. And everybody is, at the end of the day, human. Which is why we're very excited to have a conversation about the power of body language in events, and how it can be used for networking and interviewing. So, as usual, we brought out the big guns. Joining our a...

#EventIcons Episode 190 -The Power Of Body Language In Events For Networking & Interviewing

On a bit of a different note, today we're exploring body language in events! Because at its core, the events industry is all about people, and relationships between people. Attendees, suppliers, planners - everybody has a part to play. And everybody is, at the end of the day, human. Which is why we're very excited to have a conversation about the power of body language in events, and how it can be used for networking and interviewing. So, as usual, we brought out the big guns. Joining our a...

How To Celebrate In Style: The Hottest Holiday Party Trends of 2019!

It's time to learn the ho-ho-ho-hottest holiday party trends of the year! So, Halloween has come and gone. Which means that the holiday season is fast approaching. And as event professionals, we're already thinking about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. But we're sure we're not alone in this, and you're also wondering how you can take the holidays to the next level. It's a time for celebration, love, and happiness. So on this week's #EventIcons, we're super excited to let you know all...

Alcohol In Events: Best Practices To Ensure Safety & Tackle Potential Issues

On today's episode of #Eventicons, we're tackling the topic of alcohol in events. As we all know, this is a very hot conversation in the events industry. And since we want nothing but to keep you up to date, we decided to get things going! Many people will agree that this is a serious issue within the industry. But with all the new trends popping up around the world, there are more than enough ways to ensure things change for the better. So why not talk about it, and propel the conversation...

Guide To Best Business Practices For Event Professionals

Put your entrepreneur hats on, it's time to discuss best business practices! As event professionals, it's important to understand business. And it's important to understand this intricate world at its most fundamental level. Because at the end of the day, whether you're a planner or owner of a third-party company, these things apply to you. It can get boring easily - after all, we want to create great experiences, not look at the return of investment and bottom lines! However, it matters. An...

Ageism In Events: Why the 50+ Generation Still Matters For The Industry

On this week's edition of #Eventicons, we're tackling ageism in events. There was not a single point in time that different generations didn't butt heads. And today more than ever, ageism is a constant in our society. Whether it's Generation Z against Millenials or Milllenials versus Baby Boomers, everyone thinks they know best. But how exactly does ageism in events manifest itself? And more importantly, how can we ensure we're fighting this problem and give everyone a voice? Particularly th...

How To Strike The Best Deal On Your Hotel Contract Negotiations

You might want to put your best suit on because today we're talking about hotel contract negotiations! There are many things that can make or break an event. And being a planner is stressful enough as it is, so when you add choosing a venue for your event to the equation, there's a high probability your heart rate goes up. It might sound like a pretty easy endeavor. But anyone who's ever had to go through it knows there's more to the story than just signing a contract. Check out the epic re...

Inclusion In The Event Industry: The Impact Of The Americans With Disabilities Act

We always make a point to propel forward the conversation about inclusion in the event industry. And that's why this week we have a very interesting edition of #Eventicons. The Americans With Disabilities Act has been around for around 30 years. But recently, it was changed so that bodily functions are accounted for. So this includes food allergies and other specifics that people in the event industry need to be aware of. As event professionals, this is something that we need to take into ac...

Ethics in Meetings and Hospitality - #EventIcons Episode 183

On a more serious note, today we’re talking about ethics in events. As event professionals, we’re probably one of the industries that mostly deals with people. And as an industry that holds so much power, the discussion about ethics becomes crucial. Having the ability to influence and impact the world demands that we pause and think about our actions. How can we be more compassionate? How can we be kinder and live an honorable life? And most importantly, how can we translate this into our li...

The Official IMEX America 2019 Roundup – #EventIcons 182

First things first, we’re proud to introduce this week’s episode of #EventIcons. From familiar faces to brand new guests, this IMEX America 2019 roundup is filled with some of the hottest topics that made their way through the show floor. Join us for a few snippets of the iconic event that was IMEX America. Introducing Desi Whitney, KiKi L’Italien, John Ehlenfeldt, and Amine Ouadahi. Plus, all the wonderful hosts of our shows that you’ve grown to know and love – Will Curran, Lindsay Martin-B...

How To Avoid Event Planner Burnout – #EventIcons 181

Event planner burnout is a very real problem, particularly in the day and age we live in. And when it comes to an industry as convoluted and restless as the event industry, planners can feel like they’re in constant turmoil. There is always a million things to do, dozens of flights to take, and minor details to worry about. With so much going on, it’s no wonder the stress ends up accumulating and before you know it, you’re completely burnt out.

Connect Marketplace 2019 – #EventIcons 180

Live from Connect Marketplace 2019, it’s #EventIcons! You already know that we love nothing more but keep you up to date will all the hottest trends in the industry. And what better way to do it than take you with us to one of the most interesting events in the country? So this week’s episode is coming to you all the way from the one place where some of the brightest and most exciting people from several industries congregate – Connect Marketplace! For resources and more info, click here.

All About The Event Tech Podcast – #EventIcons 179

It’s Event Tech Podcast time! Oh wait…no, sorry, our bad. It’s actually time for a brand new episode of #EventIcons. But this week, we’re keeping it all in the family. For those of you familiar with the #EventIcons podcast, you already know the icons of the week. The glorious Brandt Krueger and the phenomenal Will Curran are taking a backseat on the host role and stepping up to the icon level they undoubtedly deserve. And they’re being guided by one and only Lindsey Martin-Bilbrey! For resou...

Crisis Communication - #EventIcons Episode 178

Get your planners out everybody, because we’re talking Crisis Communication! As event planners, there are a million things we have to keep in mind. And amongst all of that, there is always the consideration of what might go wrong. Because let’s face it, what are the odds everything will go according to plan? Something will always escape our control, which is exactly why having a plan for crisis communication is so important. It might sound a bit alarming at first, but it will save you a lot ...

ILEA Live 2019! - #EventIcons Episode 177

For the third year in a row, live from ILEA 2019, it’s #EventIcons! You already know that this is the place to go when it comes to getting the best tips from the icons of the industry. And this week, we bring you a particularly delicious episode. Well, delicious for your ears, at least! Directly from the International Live Events Association, today’s episode is the perfect mix of small nuggets of precious information. All of them collected during ILEA 2019, and all of them from seriously ico...

Planning Sustainable Events: How We Can Solve Global Issues – #EventIcons Episode 176

Here at Endless, we figured it was more than time we talked about planning sustainable events. As an industry, it’s extremely important that we are involved in the discussion of topics that matter for the world. And it’s even more significant that we choose to look at the bigger picture and think globally. Both as human beings and event professionals, we must be aware that our actions have a certain impact in the world. And we also have the responsibility of trying to improve it through plan...

Planning Sustainable Events: How We Can Solve Global Issues- #EventIcons Episode 176

Here at Endless, we figured it was more than time we talked about planning sustainable events. As an industry, it’s extremely important that we are involved in the discussion of topics that matter for the world. And it’s even more significant that we choose to look at the bigger picture and think globally. Both as human beings and event professionals, we must be aware that our actions have a certain impact in the world. And we also have the responsibility of trying to improve it through plan...

Keep it Weird and Make it Awesome! - #EventIcons Episode 175

Let’s get those event ideas muscles working, shall we? To all the nay-sayers, and all the non-believers out there, take note! Because today’s episode of #EventIcons is all about keeping it weird and making it awesome in the process. We’re exploring the amazing things that can come out of thinking outside the box, growing, and constantly learning in our industry. And while we know change can be scary, it tends to be for the best. Nothing can provide an extra kick to your event ideas quite lik...

Event Ideas To Keep It Weird and Make It Awesome! - #EventIcons Episode 175

Let’s get those event ideas muscles working, shall we? To all the nay-sayers, and all the non-believers out there, take note! Because today’s episode of #EventIcons is all about keeping it weird and making it awesome in the process. We’re exploring the amazing things that can come out of thinking outside the box, growing, and constantly learning in our industry. And while we know change can be scary, it tends to be for the best. Nothing can provide an extra kick to your event ideas quite lik...

Ashley Strachovsky, Event Prof & Rising Star -EventIcons Episode 174

Another week, another iconic event prof! And for today’s episode, we’re proud to welcome our two amazing hosts, Lindsay Martin-Bilbrey and Brandt Krueger, and a very special guest. Ashley Strachovsky is an event prof and a 2019 Bizbash Rising Star. She was selected for her dedication to detail and her willingness to go above and beyond for every client. Additionally, Ashley has executed high-profile events including the MTV Music Awards, The US Open, Tribeca Film festival, Raise the Macallan...

Ashley Strachovsky, Event Prof & Rising Star – #EventIcons 174

Another week, another iconic event prof! And for today’s episode, we’re proud to welcome our two amazing hosts, Lindsay Martin-Bilbrey and Brandt Krueger, and a very special guest. Ashley Strachovsky is an event prof and a 2019 Bizbash Rising Star. She was selected for her dedication to detail and her willingness to go above and beyond for every client. Additionally, Ashley has executed high-profile events including the MTV Music Awards, The US Open, Tribeca Film festival, Raise the Macallan...

Exploring Hackathons For Events – #EventIcons Episode 173

Hackathons for events might sound a bit strange at first. Even the most creative and out of the box event planners out there can frown at the thought of it. But the truth is, as professionals of the industry, it’s our job to consistently push forward in the idea department. And especially when it comes to the ideas that ensure the attendee experience goes from good to amazing. This is exactly where hackathons for events come in!For resources and additional info, click here.

Life On The Road For Event Planners – #EventIcons Episode 172

Life on the road for event planners can be quite the hassle. Just ask our phenomenal hosts Brandt Krueger and Lindsay Martin-Bilbrey! The two have been on the road since early May, and boy, do they have a lot to share! Anyone who works in the event industry knows that traveling is an inevitable part of the job description. And even if you are more of the stay at home type, if you want in, you have to learn how to adapt. Living off of a suitcase isn’t exactly glamorous, but it can be rather f...