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Meetings Today Podcast

Meetings Today Podcast

By Meetings Today

Meetings Today and partner podcasts share valuable insights on topics pertinent to the industry such as current events, the future of meetings, career advice, expert interviews and more.

Let us know any comments or questions at meetingstodaypodcast@gmail.com.
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New Steelcase/PCMA Study Gets Into Attendees' Heads

Meetings Today PodcastJun 27, 2019

00:00
10:40
Fast Forward Episode #1 - Hybrid Meetings ft. Bill Reed

Fast Forward Episode #1 - Hybrid Meetings ft. Bill Reed

In the first ever episode of the Fast Forward podcast, host Logan Pratt sits down with hybrid meetings expert Bill Reed, who shares why meeting planners should still consider planning a hybrid event, and discusses the benefit of incorporating hybrid elements to events even four years after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mar 20, 202443:23
Black Meeting Profs CEO Jason Dunn on the State of DEIAB in the Meetings Industry

Black Meeting Profs CEO Jason Dunn on the State of DEIAB in the Meetings Industry

Jason Dunn, CEO of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP), has been a leader in hospitality and DMO diversity and inclusion efforts for decades, from his time at Visit Cincy—where he rose to be the DMO's first Black vice president after initially participating in a travel boycott of the destination—to lead NCBMP in November 2022.

Now, after a little more than a year at the helm of NCBMP, Dunn reflects on his work there as well as where the meetings and events industry is in terms of diversity and inclusion, the nuanced issue of travel boycotts and advisories, and the generational challenge of persuading young people to consider a career in the meetings and hospitality industries.

Feb 01, 202419:32
New ESPA President Dominique Bonds Shares Her Vision

New ESPA President Dominique Bonds Shares Her Vision

Dominique Bonds, director of engagement for the Pennsylvania Convention Center, shares her vision as new president of Event Service Professionals Association, including DEIAB, generational shifts in the world of event service profs, sustainability and the evolution of the role of being the No. 1 on-the-ground point of contact for meeting and event planners. Bonds also fills us in on some of the big annual shows coming to Philly and the destination's big plans for 2026.


Feb 01, 202419:29
Corporate Comedian Greg Schwem Talks the Serious Business of Laughter

Corporate Comedian Greg Schwem Talks the Serious Business of Laughter

When most people think of standup comedy, they typically think of crude Netflix specials or dank nightclubs with comedians swearing like sailors. But when Greg Schwem takes the stage, you can hear the audience laughing about topics such as sales meetings, corporate websites or business advertising campaigns. 

Jan 26, 202423:00
Reigning PCMA Pickleball Champ/Visit Indy Chief Leonard Hoops Shares What’s New in Indianapolis

Reigning PCMA Pickleball Champ/Visit Indy Chief Leonard Hoops Shares What’s New in Indianapolis

Visit Indy’s president and CEO made his debut as the new Chair of PCMA’s 2024 Board of Directors and Trustees known by vanquishing the association’s president and CEO, Sherrif Karamat, on the pickleball court at Convening Leaders (CL).

Thus sanctified, Hoops later sat down with Meetings Today’s Tyler Davidson to discuss the record-setting attendance and other happenings at CL—including the epic pickleball showdown—as well as the many exciting new developments happening in Indy.

Jan 24, 202418:13
The Z: Gen Z Expert Luke Goetting on Fostering Collaborative and Productive Environments for Incoming Professionals

The Z: Gen Z Expert Luke Goetting on Fostering Collaborative and Productive Environments for Incoming Professionals

In this Meetings Today Podcast for Taylor Smith's "The Z: Planning for the Industry's Next Generation," Smith sits down with Luke Goetting, an award-winning communications expert, founder of Puffingston Presentations and a Gen Z speaker who specializes in crafting engaging, interactive experiences for audiences around the world.

As a Millennial company leader, Goetting coaches Gen Z employees on how to maximize their effectiveness at work and consults with clients aiming to inspire Gen Z. His expertise has helped him learn and develop invaluable tactics for navigating the challenges and opportunities of working with Gen Z, fostering a collaborative and productive environment that aligns with the expectations of this tech-savvy and socially conscious generation. From virtual meeting etiquette to leveraging innovative technologies, tune in now for some tips from Goetting on fostering collaborative and productive environments for incoming professionals.

Jan 12, 202440:08
Live From PCMA CL: Destination DC's Elliott Ferguson on Major Meetings Developments in the U.S. Capital

Live From PCMA CL: Destination DC's Elliott Ferguson on Major Meetings Developments in the U.S. Capital

As the leader of perhaps the most unique meetings and events draw in the U.S. if not the world, Destination DC President & CEO Elliott Ferguson oversees an operation that represents everything from world-class museums and global government event venues to iconic hotels and a cuisine scene that has taken a seat at the table of top dining destinations.

Meetings Today caught up with Ferguson on the bustling floor of The District exhibitor area at PCMA Convening Leaders 2024 to discuss Destination DC's Only One D.C. marketing campaign, new hotels and meetings venues on the scene, its status as the first city in the world to achieve Platinum level LEED for Cities and Sustainability District, and his and the bureau's ongoing efforts leading DEI and supplier diversity initiatives.

Jan 11, 202411:48
Maritz CEO Peckinpaugh Digs Into 2024 Meetings Trends

Maritz CEO Peckinpaugh Digs Into 2024 Meetings Trends

From AI and generational shifts to rethinking event design, supplier diversity, prices and the latest and greatest innovation impacting the meetings and events industry, Maritz President & CEO David Peckinpaugh is an authority on what's coming down the pike in the business events world.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down with Peckinpaugh at PCMA Convening Leaders 2024 to discover what the leader of one of the biggest MICE companies in the world is seeing, including whether hybrid and virtual meetings are fading post-pandemic.

What lays in store for you in 2024?

Jan 10, 202415:13
What's Bright and New in Orlando Meetings

What's Bright and New in Orlando Meetings

From major new ultra-luxe properties such as Evermore Orlando Resort and the Conrad Orlando, the high-speed Brightline train linking Orlando to Miami and a cuisine scene that is raking in recognition from Michelin, Central Florida's meetings and events magnet is an attractive force.

We sat down with Visit Orlando Chief Sales Officer Mike Waterman at PCMA Convening Leaders 2024 to discover what's new in a destination Cvent designates as the top meetings draw in the U.S., along with the most recent meetings numbers.

Jan 09, 202410:02
How Irving, Texas, Has Transformed Into a Bleisure Magnet

How Irving, Texas, Has Transformed Into a Bleisure Magnet

Visit Irving Texas Executive Director Maura Gast shares how this Dallas Metroplex convention magnet, often described as the "headquarters of headquarters" due to the proliferation of Fortune 500 HQs, has transformed into an entertainment mecca and Bleisure draw.

Gast also details the new Ritz-Carlton taking over for the Four Seasons as well as the most recent meeting facility news and the 50th anniversary of Las Colinas, one of the first master-planned communities of its kind that has become a foundation of the destination.

Dec 26, 202319:18
A Top Maritz Attorney on Critical Legal Issues Impacting Meetings and Events

A Top Maritz Attorney on Critical Legal Issues Impacting Meetings and Events

From AI and attrition to data privacy and security, these are the top legal issues currently impacting the meetings and events industry.

We tapped the expertise of Jill Blood, VP, deputy general counsel for global meetings and events giant Maritz, along with Sarah Kiefer, VP, Brand, to see what legal issues are expected to be top of mind in 2024.


Dec 19, 202323:02
State-of-the-Art Attendee Safety at the Georgia World Congress Center Campus

State-of-the-Art Attendee Safety at the Georgia World Congress Center Campus

Mark Vincent, emergency preparedness manager for the Georgia World Congress Center Authority, talks about his job ensuring attendee security at the 220-acre convention complex and provides tips for any meeting and event planner to consider to help ensure the safety of their gatherings.

Dec 04, 202317:53
World of Hyatt Announces New Loyalty Reward Benefits for Meeting Planners

World of Hyatt Announces New Loyalty Reward Benefits for Meeting Planners

Meetings Today's Taylor Smith joined World of Hyatt at the company's headquarters in downtown Chicago as one of the first to learn about the brand's latest loyalty program updates, including new perks for meeting planners.

Beth Lubotsky, head of loyalty strategy for World of Hyatt, shares how planners, as well as attendees and leisure travelers, stand to benefit via the revamped loyalty program.

Nov 30, 202312:49
Prices Through the Roof: Maritz's Steve O'Malley on Business Events Trends

Prices Through the Roof: Maritz's Steve O'Malley on Business Events Trends

Prices for meetings and events essentials have skyrocketed and show no signs of easing, especially room rates in the upscale hotel and resort segment that are the bedroom of business events.

In fact, the upper tiers of the hotel chain scale are experiencing room rate increases hovering around a jaw-dropping 30%.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson engaged Maritz COO Steve O'Malley, one of the most respected trends experts in the meetings and events industry, to discuss the global events giant's latest survey, timed to be released at IMEX America 2023.

O'Malley also delves into how events programs are changing due to the new generation entering the business world, as well as how a polarized U.S. political atmosphere is impacting where organizations are holding meetings.

Oct 19, 202309:55
Game Changer: Sherrif Karamat on PCMA’s New Project Spark AI Release

Game Changer: Sherrif Karamat on PCMA’s New Project Spark AI Release

Meetings Today’s Tyler Davidson sat down with PCMA President and CEO Sherrif Karamat at IMEX America 2023, where the association revealed the enhanced versions of artificial intelligence software Spark, to discover the major impact this tool made by and for meeting professionals will have on the business events industry.

Oct 19, 202313:44
The Top Tech Minds of Maritz on How AI Will Transform the Meetings Industry

The Top Tech Minds of Maritz on How AI Will Transform the Meetings Industry

Meetings Today Vice President & Chief Content Director Tyler Davidson sat down with Amy Kramer, innovation leader, and Aaron Dorsey, vice president of product management, for Maritz at IMEX America 2023 to get their take on how AI will transform the meetings industry, as well as other tech trends business event planners should have on their radar.

Oct 18, 202313:60
SITE's Pádraic Gilligan Talks New Incentive Travel Index

SITE's Pádraic Gilligan Talks New Incentive Travel Index

During IMEX’s Smart Monday powered by MPI, SITE Chief Marketing Officer Padraic Gilligan took to the stage to moderate a panel discussion breaking down the data. We caught up with Gilligan after the panel to learn more about this new report from SITE and to find out more about where the meetings and events industry is headed.

Oct 17, 202322:52
Visit Phoenix's Deborah Lahti on the Explosive Growth in the Valley of the Sun

Visit Phoenix's Deborah Lahti on the Explosive Growth in the Valley of the Sun

Greater Phoenix is on a growth spurt that is welcoming new industries into the Valley of the Sun, with a robust tech sector in particular leading the way.

Deborah Lahti, director of resort and hotel sales for Visit Phoenix, shares how the fifth-largest city in the U.S. is continuing to expand, with spectacular new hotels and resorts and improvements to traditional favorites transforming its meetings and events offering.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down with Lahti to discover more about the impressive new resorts coming online and also learn about some of the top offsite event venue options in Greater Phoenix.

Oct 17, 202315:25
Caesars Entertainment Culinary Exec Don Ross on the Brand's New Focus on Wellness

Caesars Entertainment Culinary Exec Don Ross on the Brand's New Focus on Wellness

Gaming and hospitality giant Caesars Entertainment is upping its wellness ante via a new Wellness Menu that not only offers healthy food and beverage options for its meetings and events clients, but also selections such as wellness speakers, activities and services.

Caesars Entertainment Vice President Catering and Convention Services Las Vegas Don Ross delves into the new wellness initiative as well as some of the big trends he's seeing in meetings and events food and beverage.

Oct 13, 202315:13
Innovation Is on Tap at Google Xi CoLaboratory at IMEX America 2013

Innovation Is on Tap at Google Xi CoLaboratory at IMEX America 2013

Attendees at IMEX America are in for a special treat in the form of the Google Xi CoLaboratory, where the tech giant is teaming up with other exhibitors and speakers to stage sessions and spaces focusing on experience design and inclusion.

Meetings Today’s Tyler Davidson spoke with Kate Walsh, Megan Henshall and Naomi Clare Crellin to discover what Hello! Destination Management, Google and Storycraft Lab are cooking up in concert with other collaborators such as Marriott and Maritz on the exhibit floor at IMEX America 2023, and how the message they are delivering resonates beyond the annual event.

Oct 04, 202322:26
Entrepreneur Eric Rozenberg on International Meetings and ALHI's Strategic Consulting Services

Entrepreneur Eric Rozenberg on International Meetings and ALHI's Strategic Consulting Services

Meetings industry veteran Eric Rozenberg is one of the foremost experts on international business events, having served as chair of MPI's International Board of Directors and by running his own business serving a global clientele.

Rozenberg is also an author of business books and a speaker and instructor on the topic of entrepreneurship, especially in the meetings and events industry.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson caught up with Rozenberg to talk about the state of international meetings as well as his work with Dr. Lalia Rach, who leads ALHI Strategic Consulting Services, where he helps business owners navigate their journey in starting and running businesses.

Sep 22, 202317:02
Big Things Are Afoot on the Georgia World Congress Center Campus, and Beyond

Big Things Are Afoot on the Georgia World Congress Center Campus, and Beyond

From a spectacular new 976-room Signia by Hilton headquarters hotel rising from the site of the former Georgia Dome to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Centennial Olympic Park and the Georgia World Congress Center itself, Atlanta's 200-acre Georgia World Congress Center Campus--the largest combined convention, sports and entertainment campus in North America--is a meetings and conventions powerhouse.

Beyond Atlanta, the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) is also busy with a massive expansion to the Savannah Convention Center that will transform that storied coastal Georgia destination in terms of its conventions offering.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down with Jennifer LeMaster, chief administrative officer of the GWCCA, during ASAE's Annual Meeting & Exposition to discuss the new facilities and major expansions throughout the "Championship Campus" and beyond.

Sep 14, 202317:48
EventMobi Chief Bob Vaez on Its Run the World Acquisition

EventMobi Chief Bob Vaez on Its Run the World Acquisition

EventMobi recently acquired virtual events platform Run the World, which held an astonishing 50,000 virtual events during the pandemic for heavy hitters such as Forbes, Meta, Amazon, the United Nations Development Programme and Harvard University.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down with event management software company EventMobi founder and CEO Bob Vaez to explore the benefits of the acquisition as face-to-face meetings have rebounded post-pandemic, as well as his take on some of the major meetings and events technology issues impacting the industry.

Hear why EventMobi is upping its hybrid meetings offering, and why you should continue to explore both standalone virtual events as well as meetings that combine virtual with in-person.


Sep 05, 202320:29
Omni's Big Brand and Customer Experience Refresh, With Dan Surette

Omni's Big Brand and Customer Experience Refresh, With Dan Surette

Omni Hotels & Resorts has embarked on its first brand refresh in more than a decade, coinciding with an impressive growth phase that figures convention hotels large in the equation.

Dan Surette, chief sales officer for Omni Hotels & Resorts, explains how the privately owned hotel company is placing a premium on the customer by working with global experience transformation company Materials Plus on a $1 million project to create two signature employee training programs that focus on personalization.

Aug 24, 202319:52
Shimo Bids Adieu

Shimo Bids Adieu

The meetings industry is losing a vast reservoir of institutional knowledge with the retirement of Christine "Shimo" Shimasaki, whose most recent position was managing director of 2SYNERGIZE, a Simpleview consulting company specializing on delivering intelligence to DMOs.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson caught up with Shimo shortly after the retirement announcement to discuss her 40 years in the meetings and hospitality industry, advice for those just starting out, as well as her post-career plans.

Aug 24, 202316:04
Hospitality Vet Dr. Lalia Rach Has the Prescription for Your Career Breakthrough

Hospitality Vet Dr. Lalia Rach Has the Prescription for Your Career Breakthrough

Feeling boxed in and not recognized for your accomplishments? Lifelong hospitality industry veteran Dr. Lalia Rach has a prescription to help you manage your evolution within your profession, and in particular women executives and those climbing the organizational ladder.

The author of Managing the Book on YOU!, who is also executive managing director of Strategic Consulting Service, a division of ALHI, and founding dean of the NYU Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism, and Sports Management, shares her experience being “born into” the hospitality industry, how she elevated NYU’s meeting planning certificate program into an undergraduate degree program and her work helping hospitality industry professionals via her consulting work with global luxury hotel sales powerhouse ALHI.

Aug 16, 202326:42
Sustainability Shines at Georgia World Congress Authority

Sustainability Shines at Georgia World Congress Authority

Georgia World Congress Authority (GWCA), which owns and operates Atlanta’s 200-acre Convention Campus, including the Georgia World Congress Center, prides itself on sustainability.

From bee hives to its Intentional Gatherings program, launching the Making HERstory Tea for Women's History Month, career-building efforts for local youth and DEI and food rescue efforts, the Georgia World Congress Authority excels at giving back to its community as well as the world.

Meetings Today’s Tyler Davidson sat down with Shavannia Williams, director of strategic partnerships for Georgia World Congress Authority, to see how the organization’s “People, Planet, Performance” motto can inspire meetings and conventions.

Aug 15, 202318:57
ASAE 2023: Let's Put Events Risk Management Back on the Front Burner

ASAE 2023: Let's Put Events Risk Management Back on the Front Burner

Like many of the leading issues that were top of mind until the pandemic sucked all the oxygen out of the room, in-person event risk management is once again being discussed as the industry ramps up to pre-pandemic levels and attendees are traveling for meetings.

But while DEI and sustainability have regained their status as key industry concerns as the pandemic wanes, many believe now is the time to elevate risk management back to its pre-pandemic prominence.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down with Gary LaBranche, CEO of Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) at ASAE's 2023 Annual Meeting & Exposition, to push the reset button on this critical topic.

Included in the conversation are tips on how you can ensure the safety of your attendees, an active-shooter situation that impacted RIMS's RISKWORLD event in Atlanta in May, as well as how RIMS is teaming with ASIS and ASAE to develop a risk management toolkit that will help planners keep their events safe.

Aug 10, 202314:26
ASAE 2023: Thought Leader KiKi L'Italien Explores Key Issues Impacting the Association Segment

ASAE 2023: Thought Leader KiKi L'Italien Explores Key Issues Impacting the Association Segment

KiKi L'Italien, CEO and host of Association Chat, an online community for the association industry, always calls it like she sees it, and her observations from ASAE 2023 are no exception.

From association talent pipeline struggles and the impact of AI to what she believes is the curious lack of a hybrid component at "The Super Bowl of Meetings," L'Italien is one of the leading, authentic voices covering the world of associations and meetings technology.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson caught up with L'Italien at ASAE's 2023 Annual Meeting in Atlanta for a frank discussion about the state of the associations segment and what she's hearing from her large audience of association professionals.

Aug 07, 202313:31
Helping Veterans Through Songwriting, With CreatiVets

Helping Veterans Through Songwriting, With CreatiVets

Non-profit organization CreatiVets helps veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries by teaming them with songwriters to share what are sometimes their most guarded experiences and emotions.

Meetings Today got to experience the concept of this musical magic firsthand when it brought in CreatiVets to facilitate the writing of songs about meeting and event planning at its Meetings Today LIVE! South event in Nashville as part of a CSR program.

In this Meetings Today Podcast, Vice President & Chief Content Director Tyler Davidson discusses the mission of CreatiVets with Brett Gillan, its program director. Discover how you can help this amazing organization help our veterans through its unique form of music therapy.

Jul 24, 202309:44
Meetings Tech Educator Jim Spellos on (Almost) Everything You Need to Know About Generative AI

Meetings Tech Educator Jim Spellos on (Almost) Everything You Need to Know About Generative AI

Curious about generative AI and its applications in the meetings industry...but didn't know to ask?

Meetings technology expert educator Jim Spellos previews his upcoming webinar, "Everything You Need to Know About AI...But Didn't Know to Ask," on this disruptive technology and the benefits and risks of its use. While the ramifications--and possible regulations--regarding generative AI are yet to truly reveal themselves, Spellos will get you up to date on where were at as the adoption curve seems primed to rapidly ascend.

Jun 12, 202321:56
Maritz Global Events' Amy Kramer on Disruptive New Meetings Tech

Maritz Global Events' Amy Kramer on Disruptive New Meetings Tech

Fresh from participating in Maritz Global Events' Innovation Lab at IMEX Frankfurt, Amy Kramer, innovation leader for the global events leader, discussed the "new language of events," which includes disruptive technology such as NFTs, the Metaverse and generative AI.

How close are meeting and event planners to including these new technologies in their programs, and how are younger meeting and event attendees driving the adoption trend. Discover what's around the corner for your events, and how sustainability is still a major concern as in-person and hybrid meetings come charging back and looking much different than ever before.

Stay ahead of the curve!

Jun 05, 202319:05
Cuisine Icon Wolfgang Puck on Event F&B Trends, the 25h Anniversary of Wolfgang Puck Catering and His Legacy

Cuisine Icon Wolfgang Puck on Event F&B Trends, the 25h Anniversary of Wolfgang Puck Catering and His Legacy

Wolfgang Puck transformed the way Americans thought about cuisine and is the O.G. celebrity chef.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson asked Puck about his journey to become a entrepreneurial cuisine legend, the 25th anniversary of Wolfgang Puck Catering and what he believes his legacy will be. Along the way, the Austrian-born chef dishes out stories about some of the entertainment industry celebrities that frequented his legendary Spago restaurant, how he emerged from the back of the kitchen to become an F&B icon, and the continuing evolution of high-profile events catering.

Jun 01, 202325:57
Jolene Jang on Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the Meetings Industry

Jolene Jang on Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month and the Meetings Industry

Leading Asian American inclusivity consultant Jolene Jang discusses the many facets of the Asian American and Pacific Islander culture and the challenges faced by this massive demographic in the meetings and events industry. From assimilation and the complexity and wide scope of the myriad AAPI cultures to safety issues and representation, Jang is a staunch advocate for inclusion. and moving the industry forward.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson engaged Jang to get her take during this podcast discussing the state of AAPI people and cultures in the meetings and events industry as Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month comes to a close.

May 30, 202329:58
R.E.N. Meetings at Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel

R.E.N. Meetings at Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel

Meetings Today sat down with Eugene Blabey, director of event planning and operations at Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel, to discuss the unique ways in which the hotel infuses local culture into its offerings, welcomes guests to a "West of Zen" experience and provides top-tier meeting services through the R.E.N. Meetings program, offering planners opportunities to try something different when they gather their groups at Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West Hotel.

May 24, 202339:17
Taking Accessibility at Meetings and Events One Step Further, a Conversation with Cvent's Stephen Cutchins

Taking Accessibility at Meetings and Events One Step Further, a Conversation with Cvent's Stephen Cutchins

For Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) May 18, Meetings Today sat down with Stephen Cutchins, senior product manager-accessibility at Cvent, to discuss his work around driving accessibility in Cvent's meetings and events technology tools and raising awareness about accessibility across the meetings and events industry. 

May 18, 202329:02
The Z: DEIB and Generation Z, a Conversation with Alicia Jenelle

The Z: DEIB and Generation Z, a Conversation with Alicia Jenelle

As we move through 2023 with the mindset of making meetings and events industry trends a long-term reality, Alicia Jenelle, a multi-hyphenate professional and international experiential design expert from Toronto, shares how to push the DEIB conversation one step forward.

May 10, 202328:29
DEI Update: Meetings Diversity Leaders Greg DeShields and Sheila Alexander-Reid Share Their Perspectives

DEI Update: Meetings Diversity Leaders Greg DeShields and Sheila Alexander-Reid Share Their Perspectives

DEI, or diversity, equity and inclusion, is an unstoppable force in the meetings and tourism industry and beyond.

Meetings Today touched base with two leading DEI proponents, Greg DeShields, executive director of Tourism Diversity Matters, and Sheila Alexander-Reid, executive director diversity for PHL Diversity (a division of the Philadelphia CVB) to get their take on successes as well as the challenges ahead.

Also, information about Tourism Diversity Matters' The Collective Experience conference in October 23-24 in Philadelphia, and why the City of Brotherly Love has always been at the forefront of societal change.

Apr 18, 202326:40
IACC CEO Mark Cooper on the Resurgence of the Conference Center Segment

IACC CEO Mark Cooper on the Resurgence of the Conference Center Segment

As the leader of the association representing major conference centers in Europe and North America, IACC CEO Mark Cooper is in a unique position to gauge the recovery of the segment, which was hit especially hard by the pandemic.

How is the conference center segment currently faring? How are corporations using these facilities to gather a workforce that in many respects was scattered to the wind, or evaporated, over the last three years? Is the message of sustainability getting through as we face climate change?

Meetings Today touched base with Cooper at IACC's Americas Knowledge Exchange, its renamed annual conference that seeks to strengthen both the bonds of knowledge and integrate an influx of new leaders into the world of that thoroughbred meeting facility, conference centers.

Apr 04, 202315:09
True Aloha: Meet Hawai'i's John Reyes Shares How Hawai'i's Tourism Is Guided and Guarded by Its Culture

True Aloha: Meet Hawai'i's John Reyes Shares How Hawai'i's Tourism Is Guided and Guarded by Its Culture

In some respect, the pandemic allowed the islands of Hawai'i to heal, as mass tourism came to a halt. The break only solidified the realization—long held by many Native Hawai'ians—that it is paramount for the unique culture of the islands to be understood, and respected, by visitors.

John G. Reyes, senior vice president and chief MCI sales officer for Meet Hawai‘i, shares how Hawai'i's tourism community has come together to honor the true spirit of aloha, and communicate the responsibility for visitors to give back to a people and culture that has given so much of itself in welcoming them.

From incorporating indigenous cultural programming and activities to unique excursions and CSR that honors the native culture, Hawai'i is sharing a deeper understanding of itself with the world.

Mar 28, 202325:04
"Brave Wilderness" Host Coyote Peterson on His Home Range of Columbus, Ohio

"Brave Wilderness" Host Coyote Peterson on His Home Range of Columbus, Ohio

While millions know Coyote Peterson as the guy who gets stung and bitten by just about every animal under the sun in his YouTube hit Brave Wilderness–where his videos have been viewed more than 4.3 billion times worldwide–he's also a fan of his adopted hometown of Columbus, Ohio, headquarters of his media company.

After meeting him during a familiarization trip to Columbus before PCMA Convening Leaders 2023, Meetings Today touched base with Peterson to record a podcast about why Columbus holds such a special place in his heart, as well as more details about his globetrotting derring-do.

After traveling the planet for the past decade to get up close and personal with often misunderstood animals in extreme environments, this Emmy Award-winning hunkers down in Columbus, which has become a center of innovation and entrepreneurship stemming from The Ohio State University (where Peterson is an alumni) and many Fortune 500 companies.


Mar 27, 202318:16
Why Aren't Sustainability and Net Zero as Important in the U.S. as Europe?

Why Aren't Sustainability and Net Zero as Important in the U.S. as Europe?

Major travel and meetings industry sustainability efforts such as the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative are a top priority in Europe, where the meetings industry is organizing to adopt stricter sustainability standards before governing bodies step in to enforce regulations.

The sense of urgency seems to be a great deal less in North America, however. Why is this, and how can travel and meetings industry professionals join the fight against climate change via self-regulation?

Meetings Today interviewed James Rees, executive director, conference and events, ExCel London and former president of the International Congress and Convention Association, about the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and other major sustainability efforts underway in Europe and North America.

Having a wealth of experience on the major venue side, as well as leading a major industry association and holding top sales positions for Hilton Hotels, Rees can address the subject of sustainability from a variety of vantage points.


Mar 27, 202320:51
New ESPA President Denise Reid on DEI, New Member Acquisition–and a Show-Stopping 'Ave Maria'

New ESPA President Denise Reid on DEI, New Member Acquisition–and a Show-Stopping 'Ave Maria'

Denise Reid, new president of Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA), shares how event service professionals are often on the front line of ensuring destination DEI for meetings and events, as well as her plans for ramping up the association following the pandemic upheaval, and also favors listeners with an amazing rendition of Ave Maria!

Aside from delivering memorable event service at the Hyatt Centric French Quarter in New Orleans, Reid, you see, is a classically trained mezzo-soprano who has performed with the Gulf Coast Opera Théâtre and the Keesler Air Force Base production of Handel's Messiah in Biloxi, Mississippi. She's also a member of Women@Hyatt, Hyatt B.L.A.C.K. Diversity Business and Resource Group and Loyola University New Orleans Alumni Association.

Mar 21, 202326:10
Visit San Antonio's Tyler Orwig on Southern Texas' Surging City

Visit San Antonio's Tyler Orwig on Southern Texas' Surging City

San Antonio, already the seventh-largest city in the U.S., is on a population and development boom that has seen the recent opening of 10 hotels and approximately 70 restaurants in the last two years, along with a $2.5 billion expansion of San Antonio International Airport that will include a new terminal and a resulting spike in air lift.

Meetings Today checked in with Tyler Orwig, vice president of association and tradeshow sales for Visit San Antonio, to discover what's new in the meetings and events world and beyond in this always-popular Texas destination.

Always a draw because of its epic history, San Antonio will make you remember it for much more than the Alamo.

Mar 11, 202312:25
Why You Should Work with Greater Ontario CVB for Your California Planning Needs

Why You Should Work with Greater Ontario CVB for Your California Planning Needs

Taylor Smith has a conversation with Greater Ontario Convention and Visitors Bureau Director of Sales Arlette Garibay about Ontario, California’s newest meetings and events offerings, as well as the benefits of working with the Greater Ontario CVB. This podcast was produced in partnership with the Greater Ontario CVB.

Feb 27, 202310:39
From Prison to Harvard: Speaker Andre Norman Wows Crowds With an Inspirational Keynote

From Prison to Harvard: Speaker Andre Norman Wows Crowds With an Inspirational Keynote

Speaker Andre Norman stirred the crowd at SITE Global Conference 2023 in Manhattan with a gritty story of determination and redemption that will lift anyone, no matter what background they came from.

Norman relayed his incredible journey of being raised in poverty by a single mom with five brothers and sisters and serving 14 years in prison before turning his life around to become a Harvard Fellow and travel the world on a mission to help inmates and others suffering dire situations.

Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down with Norman to delve into his remarkable journey and discover how his message can move audiences to widen their beliefs on the possibilities of bettering our society by nurturing our young.

Feb 20, 202306:27
Maritz Global Events' Rachel Riggs Talks Sustainability Trends, From SITE Global Conference

Maritz Global Events' Rachel Riggs Talks Sustainability Trends, From SITE Global Conference

Since accepting a full-time position leading the sustainability efforts of one of the most influential meetings, events and incentives travel powerhouses in the world, Maritz Global Events, Rachel Riggs is in a key position to affect change as the hospitality industry comes under intense pressure to reduce its carbon footprint.

We caught up with Rachel at SITE Global Conference 2023 in New York City to get her take on what could be considered an existential threat to the travel industry, reducing its carbon footprint voluntarily before governments enforce mandates.

Learn what green initiatives Maritz Global Events is embarking on as well as tips planners of all events and incentive travel programs can tap to make their own efforts more sustainable.

Feb 19, 202311:08
Association Prof Willis Turner Shares How ChatGPT Will Impact the Meetings Industry

Association Prof Willis Turner Shares How ChatGPT Will Impact the Meetings Industry

Association meetings veteran Willis Turner shares how the new AI technology ChatGPT will revolutionize the meetings and events industry.

Is your job safe? Depends on how fast you adapt.

Turner recently published The Power of ChatGPT: How to Put ChatGPT to Work for You, available on Amazon and via his website, www.oldclayburn.com, and also is the founder of Virtual Memorial Gatherings, which stepped in to fill the critical need for virtual funerals during the pandemic lockdown.

Feb 14, 202315:08
Epic Rock 'n' Roll and More: Discover Lancaster's Edward Harris on the Many Unexpected Lures of PA Dutch Country

Epic Rock 'n' Roll and More: Discover Lancaster's Edward Harris on the Many Unexpected Lures of PA Dutch Country

From the mammoth stage production facilities at Rock Lititz, where top acts such as Taylor Swift, Billy Joel, Rihanna and Justin Bieber tighten up their stage show before tours, to excellent teambuilding opportunities and the simple pleasures of the Amish way of life, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, offers up surprising lures for meetings groups.

Discover Lancaster President & CEO Edward Harris shares some of these "secret" offerings, such as wineries, breweries, ziplining and hot-air ballooning, as well as the destination's GBAC-accredited convention center and his experience joining and then leading the DMO through the pandemic.

Feb 01, 202317:52
What Fast-Growing Reno Tahoe Can Offer Meetings and Events

What Fast-Growing Reno Tahoe Can Offer Meetings and Events

The Reno Tahoe area of northern Nevada is easy to get to, easy to navigate once you're on the ground, and is easy to love for meetings and events. Thanks to an economic boom, new and refreshed venues, and a plethora of outdoor activities, Reno Tahoe is catching the attention of people around the country to work, live and play there. Just what can this fast-growing destination do for your next meeting or event? In this episode, Senior Content Director Danielle LeBreck chats with Mike Larragueta, vice president of sales for the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority to learn more.


This podcast was produced in partnership with Reno Tahoe

Jan 31, 202319:34