Better Events

In this episode, we sit down with Tauti Kimbrough to explore what it really means to wear multiple hats in the event industry — from venue marketer to event planner to event host. Joined by guest co-host Ryan Criswell, we discuss how Tauti's unique experience on both sides of an event make her a better host, planner, and venue coordinator. SHOW NOTES: Connect with Tauti Kimbrough: Instagram: @taut...

In this episode, Logan sits down with guest co-host Ryan Criswell to explore the unique art of producing public-facing events — and what sets them apart from ticketed or corporate experiences. They dig into what meaningful engagement actually looks like when your audience didn't plan to be there, and how to measure success beyond a headcount. Plus, Ryan shares lessons from the public-facing world...

Managing speakers can make or break an event — and it starts with setting the right expectations. In this episode, we’re breaking down the fundamentals of speaker management, from when it should begin in the planning process to the key deliverables every speaker should have. We share best practices for communication, timelines, and what speakers actually need to be successful both before and onsit...

We made it to 250 episodes — and we’re taking a moment to reflect on what that really means. In this milestone episode, we look back on the conversations that shaped the podcast, including our top 5 most popular episodes and what we’d say differently today. We also share what 250 episodes have taught us about events, how our perspectives have evolved, and what feels less urgent now than it once di...

Working the Olympics looks different depending on where you sit — and this time, Logan was on the in-venue side. In this solo episode, she takes you behind the scenes of her first Winter Games as an Associate Venue Producer, focused on the fan experience inside the venue. From coordinating with sport and broadcast to showcalling her first medal ceremonies, she shares what surprised her most and wh...

Parental leave in events doesn’t come with a playbook — so you have to build your own. Parental leave can feel overwhelming for event pros considering starting a family — so what does it actually look like to plan for it? In this episode, Mary is joined by event pro Jessica Zimmerman to share their experiences navigating pregnancy while working in events, including how they’re approaching timeline...

In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Frost to unpack what goes into organizing maker markets and what event pros can learn from them. We dive into her expertise on managing vendor relationships and how to set your event up for long-term success. She shares how she balances curation with inclusivity, prepares for common onsite challenges, and helps vendors feel genuinely supported, not just manag...

In this episode, we flip the perspective from last week's episode and talk about what it really means to be an event contractor — and how to get hired (and rehired). We break down how contracting differs from freelancing or staff roles, which event positions tend to work best in this model, and what helps you stand out before you ever arrive onsite. We also cover professional rate conversation...

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to hire event contractors and build the right team for your events. We talk through which roles are typically contracted, how to decide what to outsource versus handle in-house, and where to find great contractors in the first place. We also share the signals that tell us someone will be a strong partner before show day — along with the red flags we’ve lear...

In this episode, we’re joined by Queen Noveen — an Emmy-nominated live announcer and voice actress whose voice has powered everything from major sports and awards shows to film, TV, and commercials. We dive into what live announcing actually entails, the preparation and pressure behind the mic, and why it’s far more than “just reading a script.” Queen shares stories from high-profile events, refle...

In this solo episode, Mary breaks down where nonprofits should actually spend their time when planning fundraising events — and where effort often gets misplaced. She walks through two common planning scenarios, sharing how to balance relationship-building with logistics, prioritize activities that drive real return, and avoid overspending without sacrificing impact. The conversation also digs int...

While event themes and visuals get most of the attention, the production decisions behind the scenes are what truly shape how an event feels. In this solo episode, Logan unpacks the choices that matter most — from flow and staffing to rehearsal, timing, and the small details that quietly save the day. Drawing from real event experience, she shares where to focus your energy when everything feels i...

Managing a team is one of the biggest shifts many event pros make — and it rarely comes with a manual. In this episode, Owner and Event Strategy Lead of Synchronocity Events, Alex Martin joins us to share lessons from growing and supporting event teams over time. We talk about healthy communication, balancing involvement with autonomy, and how to tell the difference between people problems and sys...

We’re back with Part 2 of the boring side of events — because someone has to talk about bathrooms, signage, and load-in logistics. This episode covers the practical realities of planning events; everything from security and signage to load-in and first aid. We share what’s saved us, what we had to learn the hard way and why getting the boring stuff right makes everything else feel easier. Let'...

In this episode, we’re doing one of our favorite things — revisiting our goals. We listen back to what we said we wanted to accomplish in 2025, react (honestly) to how it actually went, and share what surprised us along the way. From personal ins and outs to podcast and business goals, we reflect on what worked, what shifted, and what we’re carrying forward. We wrap up by setting new intentions fo...

This week, we’re recapping the 2025 Better Events Conference — what worked, what surprised us, and the moments that stuck with us most. We reflect on attendee feedback, lessons learned, and how our goals for the conference showed up in real time.. We’re also joined by conference sponsor and friend of the pod Alycia Drube, who conducted a sustainability audit of our in-person day and shares thought...

As we kick off Season 6, we’re looking back at the lessons 2025 taught us — both as event professionals and as business owners. We go back and forth on what worked, what challenged us, and the things we had to learn the hard way. From collaboration and boundaries to decisions we’d approach differently next time, this episode is all about honest reflection as we get ready to start a new season of t...

As we wrap up Season 5, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what this year really meant for us as event professionals and business owners. We talk honestly about the wins, the hard lessons, and how collaboration over competition shaped our work this year — plus where AI fit into our workflows. We also look ahead to 2026, share what we’re excited about next, and give a sneak peek at what’s coming i...

In this special mailbag episode, we're answering your questions — the ones event pros swap in DMs, backstage, and over conference coffees. We’re diving into everything from audience engagement and creative networking ideas to reading the room and navigating A/V pricing. We also share our favorite run-of-show hacks, how to keep events seamless with a tiny team, and the essential business tools...

Not every part of event planning is glamorous—but ignoring the “boring stuff” can cause big problems. In this episode, we’re shining a light on the unsexy yet essential logistics behind successful events: permits, power, parking, trash, and WiFi. From permit surprises to power mishaps and vendor parking puzzles, we share real examples and tips that can save you from day-of disasters. Whether you’r...

If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out in a sea of event pros—or when it’s the right time to add something new to your offerings—this episode is for you. We’re digging into what growth really looks like as an event business, why differentiation matters more than ever, and how to identify your unique value in a crowded market. Plus, we share real examples of services we’ve added (or walked away f...

We’re pulling back the curtain on the 2025 Better Events Conference and sharing more about the planning behind the in-person day—and what’s got us most excited about it. We also share tips for keeping attendees engaged, lessons learned so far, and a few things we’re still figuring out. Whether you're planning your own conference or just curious how we make it happen, this one’s packed with pra...

Curious about what it really takes to succeed in the world of corporate events? In this episode, we sit down with Gianna Gaudini, a master corporate planner and event strategist, to explore what sets corporate events apart, how to break into the space, and how to design with intention. We also unpack attendee journey frameworks, common gaps hotels overlook when serving planners, and career shifts...

Talking about money isn’t always easy—but it’s essential, no matter if you're running an event business or navigating your event career. In this episode, we dive into one of the most important (and sometimes awkward) parts of the job: raising your rates. Whether you're a freelancer negotiating your next contract or an internal event pro prepping for a raise conversation, we share the signs...

What’s an event that still haunts you? In this special live episode from the 2025 Better Events Conference, we’re swapping real-life horror stories from events gone wrong—tech fails, miscommunications, last-minute surprises, and more. You’ll hear tales from Mary, Logan, and our audience that will make you laugh, cringe, and nod in solidarity. Plus, we reflect on the early warning signs of chaos an...