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Mastering Mitzvahs

Mastering Mitzvahs

By Xplosive Entertainment

This is a podcast intended both for families planning bar/bat mitzvahs as well as an outlet for mitzvah industry professionals to speak about trends, topics, and the overall state of the bar/bat mitzvah industry.
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Episode 79: 4 top reasons NOT to cancel your party

Mastering MitzvahsJan 20, 2021

00:00
35:56
Episode 135: Meet MC Semaj Hazzard

Episode 135: Meet MC Semaj Hazzard

MC Semaj Hazzard has become one of Xplosive Entertainment's most requested performers. In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, Dylan and Mike chat with Semaj and discuss his very unique background, his musical passions and some suggestions he has for those planning a party. He also provided a great bonus tip for young adults looking to get into this industry. For more about Semaj, visit: https://www.xeevents.com/talent/semaj/


Mar 18, 202431:22
Episode 134: Timelines... love 'em or hate 'em?

Episode 134: Timelines... love 'em or hate 'em?

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, we dove into the importance of having a timeline as well as the times to disregard a timeline. Take a listen to this podcast and learn more!


www.XEevents.com

Mar 11, 202432:42
Episode 133: Booking inclusive services vs hiring multiple vendors

Episode 133: Booking inclusive services vs hiring multiple vendors

This episode of Mastering Mitzvahs comes as a reaction to a post on a Facebook mitzvah planning group. A parent posted a question looking for dancers as the DJ he or she hired said "the dancers he normally uses were not available."

While we feel horrible for this family, who is now stuck in a sticky situation, we also realize this topic should be expanded upon and dissected. Did the client hire the wrong company? OR did the DJ mislead from the beginning? What if the topic wasn't dancer related and instead was about a photo booth?

In this episode, we dive deep into the value or pitfalls of hiring an inclusive business for all or most of your mitzvah related needs.

Feb 19, 202420:31
Episode 132: The Super Bowl Showcase Recap

Episode 132: The Super Bowl Showcase Recap

Just 24 hours after the Super Bowl Showcase, Xplosive owner's Dylan and Mike recap the showcase, discuss the unique feel of the event and highlight some of the most impressive attractions.


For more info, visit: www.XEevents.com

Feb 13, 202424:11
Episode 131: Leveling up your mitzvah. When Average just isn't good enough!

Episode 131: Leveling up your mitzvah. When Average just isn't good enough!

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, Mike and Dylan provide dozens of tips on ways to raise the bar of the mitzvah celebration. (Pun intended). Starting with booking tips, the two give examples all the way through the process to ensure an elevated experience.


For more info visit: www.XEevents.com


Feb 09, 202431:24
Episode 130: The importance of Mitzvah Showcases with guest Jazmine from H.Y.P.E. Productions

Episode 130: The importance of Mitzvah Showcases with guest Jazmine from H.Y.P.E. Productions

Xplosive is proud to be an industry leader in the bar and bat mitzvah world. That said, we still have peers who we admire and learn from. In this episode, we bring back Jazmine Gonzalez from H.Y.P.E. Productions out of the Chicago area.


Jazmine runs an incredible venue called Loft 21 as well as H.Y.P.E. Productions which features 12 MCs and hosts approximately 250 bar/bat mitzvahs annually.


This episode is an open discussion with Xplosive owner, Michael Langsner and Jazmine regarding the importance of visiting a bar/bat mitzvah showcase.


For more info about H.Y.P.E. or to contact Jazmine, visit: https://hypeproductionsinc.com/


And as always... please, like, share and comment on this podcast!

Jan 29, 202428:13
Episode 129: 24 Tips for Mitzvahs in 2024 (part two)

Episode 129: 24 Tips for Mitzvahs in 2024 (part two)

This is the follow up episode to last week's episode (part one) of 24 tips for 2024. There are some great tips here. Tune in. Like, listen and share!


For more info... visit:

www.XEevents.com




Jan 15, 202440:04
Episode 128: 24 Tips for 2024 (part one)

Episode 128: 24 Tips for 2024 (part one)

With the start of 2024, we found this a perfect opportunity to offer 24 quick but effective suggestions to maximize your bar/bat mitzvah planning. In this one of two episodes, we tackle 12 helpful suggestions.


Questions, comments or to provide tips you've learned across your planning, please share with us at info@XEevents.com


Jan 08, 202433:03
Episode 127: Great dance parties don't happen by accident

Episode 127: Great dance parties don't happen by accident

In this episode, Mike and Dylan discuss the need for formalities and the sometimes unrealistic request for a non-stop dance party. Tips, suggestions and details are shared in this episode with best practice options for optimal bar and bat mitzvah flow.


for more info visit:

www.XEevents.com

Dec 07, 202323:33
Episode 126: Forms.... help us, help you.

Episode 126: Forms.... help us, help you.

In this episode we talk about the reasons why completing event forms are so accurate are important.

Nov 16, 202329:27
Episode 125: Mitzvahs Trick or Treat

Episode 125: Mitzvahs Trick or Treat

In the spirit of Halloween being, we are analyzing recent mitzvahs and talking about all the GREAT "treats" we've been seeing and some of the "tricks" or hurdles we've encountered so far this season. There's nothing overly spooky about this episode besides our hosts, Dylan and Mike getting real and removing the masks that often hide the truths.


www.XEevents.com

Nov 02, 202329:36
Episode 124: Boston Vs. Jersey... who does mitzvahs better?

Episode 124: Boston Vs. Jersey... who does mitzvahs better?

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, our hosts, Mike and Dylan bring in a friend and esteemed guest, Michael Siagel the owner of Siagel Productions from the Boston Mass area. Michael's team produces over 250 bar/bat mitzvahs per year and is a second generation entertainment firm which started in 1976.


In this fun episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, we banter back and fourth about the trends, styles and possible different mindsets between Xplosive's NJ/PA based company and Siagel's Boston based company.


You can learn more about Siagel Productions by visiting this link:

https://www.siagelproductions.com/



And as always, we appreciate shares, likes and comments...


for all things Xplosive visit: www.XEevents.com

Aug 30, 202332:54
Episode 122: Ten Minute Enhancements: Social Zaps

Episode 122: Ten Minute Enhancements: Social Zaps

In this new format for our podcasts, Dylan and Mike spend ten minutes discussing a new and super cool event enhancement called Social Zaps. This is an upgrade to the traditional Zap Photos and a hybrid of zap photos merged with the roaming photo station. Check out the podcast to learn more!



www.XEevents.com

Aug 18, 202310:59
Episode 123: Understanding Bar and Bat Mitzvah Entertainment Pricing

Episode 123: Understanding Bar and Bat Mitzvah Entertainment Pricing

Understanding the bar and bat mitzvah pricing is a topic we can chat about for hours. In this 40 minute episode, we condensed our most top thoughts and shared them for clients (and other industry peers) to learn from. There are plenty of great nuggets to learn from this podcast. We hope you enjoy and if you would like to chat further on this topic, please connect with us!


www.XEevents.com


Aug 18, 202343:51
Episode 121: Balancing the "Jewish-ness" of your celebration

Episode 121: Balancing the "Jewish-ness" of your celebration

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, we have a guest, Jamie who just a few days before recording this episode, celebrated her own daughter's bat mitzvah. Instantly, we knew we wanted Jamie to be a guest on this podcast since her party was not only spectacular, but it also had a very unique feel with a great balance of modern tradition and Israeli music paired with the contemporary, upscale East Coast bar/bat mitzvah flair we've come to expect.


This is a really fun and informative podcast for those planning bar and bat mitzvahs.


Thanks for tuning in... for more info contact: www.XEevents.com




Jun 07, 202334:44
Episode 120:  Should your child be part of the planning / booking process.

Episode 120: Should your child be part of the planning / booking process.

There are plenty of items that your son or daughter should be working with you on making decisions. However, there are some pricy and sometimes sensative topics within the planning process which should be adult only decisions. In this podcast, we discuss these details.


For more info, questions or to propose a topic for another episode of Xplosive Entertainment's Mastering Mitzvahs find us online at:


www.XEevents.com

Apr 20, 202332:29
Episode 119: Are formalities dead?

Episode 119: Are formalities dead?

In this episode, Mike and Dylan discuss the different formalities which generally take place at a bar or bat mitzvah and give a thumbs up or down signaling to keep or ditch these traditions. As always, we encourage and appreciate feedback.


www.XEevents.com

Mar 27, 202340:33
Episode 118: Prioritizing Mitzvah Planning

Episode 118: Prioritizing Mitzvah Planning

We estimate there are well over 100 decisions to make when planning a bar or bat mitzvah.  Dylan and Mike selected their the top ten, debated them, compared them and ultimately made a single list to share with those planning a bar/bat mitzvah.  Within this podcast, there are some great tips and suggestions to consider during the planning process. 



For more info visit:  www.XEevents.com


Mar 16, 202338:37
Episode 117: Do you pick the entree before the restaurant? An analogy to the booking process.

Episode 117: Do you pick the entree before the restaurant? An analogy to the booking process.

As we come off the high from our annual Super Bowl Showcase, we are busy now booking new events and working with existing clients to add enhancements to their current booked events.  The analogy to "do you pick the entree before the restaurant" is a great comparison to the entertainment booking process.  Ideally, you should pick your favorite vendor whom is trusted, consistent, well-reviewed and reliable before selecting entrees, appetizers, drinks and desserts.  However, all too often, client fascinate too much on the menu (or available services) before deciding where they will eat (who whom to book).

In this episode, we reference the 2023 Super Bowl Showcase.  Here's the video recap:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_M9C8K4yWQ&t=2s


For more info visit:  www.XEevents.com  

Feb 17, 202331:12
Episode 116: Getting the most out of showcase attendance

Episode 116: Getting the most out of showcase attendance

Xplosive Entertainment's annual Super Bowl Showcase is taking place just days from today.  On Sunday, Feb 12th, we bring out the big guns and put together an inspiring, informative and interactive party showcase.  In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, we provide tips and thoughts on attending showcases and maximizing the experience. 


to register for the showcase visit this link:  www.SuperBowlShowcase.com



Feb 06, 202325:55
Episode 115: What make a party a 10?

Episode 115: What make a party a 10?

Dylan just came off a weekend with his first mitzvah of the New Year.  When Mike asked him about it, he said it was a 10 out of 10.  Let's learn why...



www.XEevents.com

Jan 20, 202324:44
Episode 114: Does size matter? (Guest count, room size, crew size, number of enhancements, etc)

Episode 114: Does size matter? (Guest count, room size, crew size, number of enhancements, etc)

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs we hit a new topic... the provocative title "Does Size Matter" really is not intended to be suggestive in this case.  Rather, we discuss guest count, room size, number of dancers, quantity of games or activities, etc.   This is our last recording for 2022.  We appreciate our followers.  Please like, share, and comment on this podcast to help our algorithms.

Dec 19, 202233:03
Episode 113: What we are Thankful for!

Episode 113: What we are Thankful for!

With Thanksgiving coming up tomorrow, we thought this would be a perfect opportunity to publically share our gratitude for those people and those things we value so much.  This is a heartfelt and fun episode.  As always, thanks for tuning in.  Please like, share and comment!


www.XEevents.com

Nov 23, 202216:56
Episode 112: An interview with a recent mitzvah family and a perfectly executed Disney Theme

Episode 112: An interview with a recent mitzvah family and a perfectly executed Disney Theme

In this episode we have a guest, Shari Pine, who recently celebrated her daughter's bat mitzvah with us at Xplosive Entertainment.  Shari embraced the Disney Theme and executed it to the fullest!  This party was a great example of a family who invested in embracing a theme and allowing the entertainment to use their ideas in a way most fitting to ensure an incredible celebration.  

We also invited Jaymie to join us on this podcast since she was responsible for the coordination and advanced detail of the party. 


For more details, visit:  www.XEevents.com


Nov 10, 202234:01
Episode 111: Distractions at events.

Episode 111: Distractions at events.

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, Mike and Dylan chat about about distractions at events. These can come in the form of sporting events happing while the party takes place, divorce situations, games, craft stations, etc.  We encourage you to listen to this podcast to get a better understanding of the distractions that can take place at your event and how to manage them in advance.



www.XEevents.com

Xplosive Entertainment is a NJ DJ based entertainment company.

Nov 03, 202223:05
Episode 110: Mike had a hard weekend

Episode 110: Mike had a hard weekend

This episode of Mastering Mitzvahs provides a glimpse behind the scenes into a weekend in which we ran into some troubles.  While we sometimes feel like super heroes, we are not 100% invincible.  Take a look into a tough weekend experienced by Mike.

www.XEevents.com

Oct 13, 202231:35
Episode 109: The mitzvah booking process and timeline

Episode 109: The mitzvah booking process and timeline

So much to do and so little time!  Is that the mantra when planning a mitzvah?  The answer is, that it shouldn't be.  You know for years that you have a party coming up.  And you have ample time to get prepared, plan accordingly, etc.  In this episode, we point out some suggested tips as you schedule out your planning needs. 


www.XEevents.com

Oct 06, 202228:20
Episode 108: Party Give Aways

Episode 108: Party Give Aways

The good, the bad and the ugly with party give aways.   In this episode, we chat about the differences in favors, prizes and give-aways.   We discuss quantities, specific item suggestions and an overall method of making the right decisions to be setup for success.  We hope you enjoy this episode and are available to answer any questions.

www.XEevents.com


Sep 29, 202229:58
Episode 107: Tips to Enjoy the Bar or Bat Mitzvah you are planning!

Episode 107: Tips to Enjoy the Bar or Bat Mitzvah you are planning!

Within this podcast, we chat about the many different things you can do to ensure you enjoy the party you are planning.  With all the stresses and obligations involved in hosting an event, there are many tips and tricks we offer in this 28 minute episode to help ensure you get to maximize your time celebrating your son or daughter. 


As always send us any feedback or suggestions for podcast episodes.  


www.XEevents.com 

Aug 25, 202228:57
Episode 106: Expected trends for the Fall 2022 mitzvah season.

Episode 106: Expected trends for the Fall 2022 mitzvah season.

Within this podcast, Mike, Jordan and Dylan chat about the expected trends within the bar/bat mitzvah world for the Fall 2022 season and upcoming winter months.  Things like colors, food trends, photo booth options, themes, balloons and even bounce houses have been explored within this episode.  As always, thanks for tuning in.  For more mitzvah tips, tricks and trends be sure to like and follow our podcasts!


www.XEevents.com

Aug 12, 202235:08
Episode 105 - our last 6 weeks in review
Jun 13, 202239:38
Episode 104: Things to think of when interviewing a DJ or other vendor

Episode 104: Things to think of when interviewing a DJ or other vendor

In this episode, Mike, Dylan and Jordan give tips and their perspective on how to select the right DJ. As always, you will find plenty of great useful tips, tricks and ideas within this podcast. 



www.XEevents.com

Apr 27, 202229:56
Episode 103 - Working with inexperienced vendors or venues

Episode 103 - Working with inexperienced vendors or venues

In this episode, Mike and Jordan provide tips and suggestions for families who choose to hire a less experienced venue or vendor.  This episode also provides tips for professionals looking to break into the bar/bat mitzvah game.  


As always, we appreciate you tuning in and look forward to seeing you on our next podcast.  Please like, share, and comment if you enjoyed this podcast.


www.XEevents.com

Apr 13, 202229:34
Episode 102: Mitzvah Style... what to wear?

Episode 102: Mitzvah Style... what to wear?

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, Mike, Dylan and Jordan chat about fashion trends and fashion no-no's when it comes to dressing for success at a bar/bat mitzvah.  This was a fun episode with plenty of useful info.  We hope you enjoy.


www.XEevents.com

 

Apr 13, 202230:40
Episode 101: Guest Heidi Hiller discussing the role of a planner vs decorator and a discussion about event themes

Episode 101: Guest Heidi Hiller discussing the role of a planner vs decorator and a discussion about event themes

Esteemed and accomplished event planner/producer/decorator Heidi Hiler joins the guys for episode 101 of Mastering Mitzvahs.  In this episode, we chat about the differences and the needs for decorators, planners and "day of" coordinators.  We also have a fun conversation about event themes.  


To learn more about Heidi and her business, Innovative Party Planners, click here:  https://www.innovativepartyplanners.com/


As always... on behalf of Xplosive Entertainment, thank you for tuning in!

www.XEevents.com

Mar 17, 202234:33
Episode 100: Celebrating #100 with a round robin of topics each discussed for 100 seconds

Episode 100: Celebrating #100 with a round robin of topics each discussed for 100 seconds

In this episode, as we celebrated episode #100, we played a little game.  The wheel of topics was spun.  Mike, Jordan or Dylan took turns on the "hot seat."   Depending on who's turn it was, that person had 100 seconds to talk about their assigned topic.  

This was a very fun and light hearted podcast, however, like always... it provides great tips, tricks and trends for those planning a bar/bat mitzvah.  Thank you for taking this journey with us.  Please like, share and comment on this podcast.


Cheers!

www.XEevents.com


Mar 09, 202254:17
Episode 99... changing with the times. Trends old and new!

Episode 99... changing with the times. Trends old and new!

In this episode, Jordan and Mike discuss some current trends, flash back to old trends and talk about suggested trends for the future.  As always, all things bar/bat mitzvah are discussed in this podcast!  Thanks for tuning in!  Episode 100, coming up next week!!!

Mar 04, 202239:27
Volume Concerns (part 2, as covered by national news) and the Super Bowl Showcase revisited

Volume Concerns (part 2, as covered by national news) and the Super Bowl Showcase revisited

Whew... in this 98th episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, we discuss the widely spoken about news article in which a bride is suing her wedding venue for 5 Million Dollars for imposing a ridiculous volume limit to her big day.  Of course the guys at Xplosive have thoughts to share on this topic!  Then we changed gears and discussed a recap of last week's bar/bat mitzvah showcase taking place at the amazing Bridgewater Manor.  



Feb 17, 202251:40
Episode 97: Volume & Music Concerns... who's the party for?

Episode 97: Volume & Music Concerns... who's the party for?

In this episode, we discuss (in great detail) many of the hurdles we've experienced throughout the years and hope these stories help you plan your son or daughter's bar/bat mitzvah more effectively.  Think about the following.... 

Do you want to ensure the volume isn't too loud so the adults can talk?

What are the kids doing to keep busy?

How about music choice?  Are we focusing music towards the adults or the kids?  

The bottom line is the party is in celebration for your child's accomplishment, becoming a bar or bat mitzvah, but how you plan the party may lend itself more towards adults or kids. 


We hope you enjoy this episode!






Jan 27, 202240:42
Episode 96: Danielle from Bridgewater Manor and an inside preview of the Super Bowl Showcase

Episode 96: Danielle from Bridgewater Manor and an inside preview of the Super Bowl Showcase

As we near episode 100 of the Mastering Mitzvah's podcast... we are excited to have one of our favorite industry friends on as a guest.  Meet, Danielle Purro from the Bridgewater Manor.  Danielle and her team are amazing. Within this podcast, we get to know the venue, it's capabilities, and some of its history. On Feb 13, 2022, we will be hosting our annual bar/bat mitzvah showcase at the Bridgewater Manor.  


To learn more, visit:  www.bridgewatermanor.com


And as always... to learn more about Xplosive Entertainment, visit:  www.XEevents.com

Jan 20, 202232:21
Episode 95: The non-stop dance party. Is this really a possibility?  Or just a wishful image?

Episode 95: The non-stop dance party. Is this really a possibility? Or just a wishful image?

In this interesting episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, hosts Mike Langsner, Dylan Weisman and Jordan Marshall dive into a question or comment we get very often.  "I want to have a non-stop dance party."  So, in this 30 minute episode, we dive into this question and analyze is this a reality?  And if so, what does it take to achieve.  


As aways, we encourage comments, questions and thoughts.  We are always looking for new topics, so don't be afraid to ask.


Thanks for tuning in...

www.XEevents.com 

Jan 06, 202233:16
Episode 94: 2021... a year in review. Top mitzvah moments.

Episode 94: 2021... a year in review. Top mitzvah moments.

In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, Mike and Dylan take a look back at top moments in 2021 mitzvahs.   It's been a great year.  We hope you continue to enjoy these podcasts.  Thanks for tuning in!

Dec 22, 202132:36
Episode 93: Last minute event planning

Episode 93: Last minute event planning

Planning last minute?  Sound familiar.  In this episode, Mike and Dylan discuss some advantages for last minute planning.  They also provide some cautionary notes too.  Regardless of the event type you are planning, this is a great podcast full of useful info.



www.XEevents.com

Dec 14, 202124:42
Episode 92: A mitzvah in a Elite sports complex... an interview with Jody Greenblatt, a recent customer.

Episode 92: A mitzvah in a Elite sports complex... an interview with Jody Greenblatt, a recent customer.

Traditional is not for everyone. Sports, energy, and high octane competition was exactly what Greenblatt family was looking for when planning Zach’s Bar Mitzvah.

Jordan and Dylan chat with Jody (Mom) about what went into planning and executing this different and exciting Bar Mitzvah celebration

Dec 10, 202130:55
Episode 91: An interview with Andrea Hecht and a deep dive into her Top Golf Mitzvah Experience

Episode 91: An interview with Andrea Hecht and a deep dive into her Top Golf Mitzvah Experience

Andrea Hecht, a top fan of Xplosive Entertainment, had the opportunity to celebrate her son Jonah recently.  This party took place at Top Golf in Edison, NJ.  Obviously this venue is non-traditional and brought it's obstacles and challenges.  Yet, the uniqueness of this venue made for a special, one-of-a-kind celebration.  In this episode, we take a deep dive into the mindset that brought the party to Top Golf, the challenges and the lessons learned.


For more info visit:  www.XEevents.com

Photos from the party:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4287244401386004&type=3

and to learn more about Top Golf:  https://topgolf.com/us/edison/


Dec 01, 202133:02
Episode 90: Where have we been?

Episode 90: Where have we been?

After a 2 month hiatus, it was great to be back online and recording another episode of the Mastering Mitzvahs podcast.  In this episode, the three of us, spoke about the craziness of the last two months from travel events to last minute changes. Its been a wild ride, yet one thing always remains consistent... we always produce amazing events.  

As always, thanks for tuning in.  Please, like, share and comment on this podcast. 



Nov 18, 202136:57
Episode 89: A weekend review and a look inside Dylan's "Oh S-it Bag"

Episode 89: A weekend review and a look inside Dylan's "Oh S-it Bag"

As DJs, we are expected to carry around speakers, lights, mics, and sometimes TVs and stages.  However, it's the unexpected that we carry around which can sometimes make the difference.  In this episode of Mastering Mitzvahs, we talk about these items and we recap some of the more special and unique events.



For questions or more info visit:  www.XEevents.com

Sep 22, 202130:03
Episode 88: A parties are back, it's a new season and what was Xplosive doing in California?

Episode 88: A parties are back, it's a new season and what was Xplosive doing in California?

This episode was an exciting episode as the 2021 Fall party season begins.  While we are sad to see the summer end, we are happy to know events are back!!!  We also used this podcast opportunity to brag a little about an epic party we just had the honor of performing for in California!  


Tune in, share, like, and comment!  


As always... Thank you for listening!


www.XEevents.com



Sep 08, 202135:24
Episode 87: Leveling up the Bar/Bat Mitzvah

Episode 87: Leveling up the Bar/Bat Mitzvah

In this episode, Jordan and Mike discuss ideas on raising the bar for your cocktail hour, introductions, dance sets, mealtime and event closings.  There are a TON of tips and suggestions in this episode.  Please tune in, like, share and comment!


All things Xplosive:  www.XEevents.com

Jul 01, 202138:40
Episode 86: A weekend recap, post covid events, tents, and some really big tips!

Episode 86: A weekend recap, post covid events, tents, and some really big tips!

This episode of Mastering Mitzvahs included some really important tips for those planning outdoor events, tented parties and/or post covid events.  This weekend recap brings a wide array of tips and suggestions from Xplosive Entertainment owners, Mike and Jordan. 


As always, for more info or to contact us directly visit:  www.XEevents.com 

Jun 17, 202134:17