Better Events

A conference for event pros, by event pros. Join us virtually on Wednesday, October 1st, and in person in Seattle on Thursday, December 18th, at a secret location (to be announced to attendees in the weeks before the event). Learn more about the conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Purchase a ticket now: https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration...

In this week's episode, we go behind the scenes , we’re joined by Beline Lafayette, Event Planner for the UF Florida Semiconductor Institute, to explore the unique world of event planning in higher education. With over seven years of experience and a background in marketing and event management, Beline shares how her work connects academia, industry, and community through strategic, purpose-driven...

This week, we’re brushing off our crystal balls and looking ahead to 2026—and revisiting the predictions we made last year to see what held up (and what totally missed the mark). From what excites us to what feels a little uncertain, we’re sharing our honest thoughts on what’s coming next in the event industry. Plus, we each make three fresh predictions for 2026 and react to clips of what we said...

This week, we’re diving deeper into the freelance side of the event world with a real talk conversation about growth, boundaries, and sustainability. We share how we evaluate new opportunities, plan for slow seasons, and navigate scope creep mid-project. From raising your rates to hiring other freelancers, we cover the decisions that come with experience—and the ones we’re still figuring out. Whet...

In this week's episode, we’re joined by Kellé Thorpe, fractional CFO and founder of Kommas with Kellé, to talk all things money—from forecasting profits to managing cash flow. Kellé breaks down what a fractional CFO actually does, common financial mistakes event professionals make, and how to get clearer on exactly how much you’ll earn from every project. We also dive into tips for business owners...

In this week's episode , we’re diving into the sales side of running an event business. We share how we each approach marketing, finding new clients, and setting goals—plus a few surprises about how some of our recent events came to be. From securing repeat business to refining your sales process, this conversation is full of real-life examples and actionable tips. Whether you're just starting out...

In this episode, Logan shares her top 10 tips every event pro should know when building a run of show. From planning smooth transitions and managing speaker timing to mic preferences, music cues, and post-event updates, these small details make a big difference onsite. Whether you're producing your first event or your hundredth, these practical tips will help your next show flow better, feel smoot...

In this week's episode, we're joined by Sean Walker, an expert audio engineer turned CEO of Northwest Audio Engineers, to talk all things sound. Sean shares why audio is often overlooked—but absolutely essential—for creating impactful events, and breaks down what every planner should know about sound setup, sound checks, and working with audio teams. We dig into the difference between good and gre...

In Part 2 of our travel series, we’re talking all about what it’s really like to travel for events. From our go-to packing hacks and must-have gear to handling red-eyes, time zones, and on-the-road routines, we’re sharing the tips that help us stay energized and organized. We also answer some fun rapid-fire travel questions (window or aisle?) and reflect on how much downtime we actually get during...

In this week's episode, we’re digging into the behind-the-scenes logistics of traveling for events. From how we land gigs that require travel to how we structure travel fees, per diems, and reimbursements in our contracts, we’re sharing the real talk you don’t always hear. We also cover how we handle travel bookings, client expectations, and what we won’t compromise on when it comes to flights and...

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by event sustainability advocate and onsite event manager, Alycia Drube for a real talk on what it actually means to plan sustainable events. We explore why sustainability can feel more like a buzzword than a best practice, common mistakes planners make, and practical ways to incorporate sustainable (and not only environmental) choices into your events. Plus,...

In this week's episode, we’re breaking down what it really means to be a freelancer in the event industry. From the types of roles we’ve worked recently to the pros and cons of freelance life, we’re sharing honest insights and real-world advice. We also answer listener questions about how to get started, set your rates, find your confidence, and navigate the freelance world—whether you’re fresh ou...

We're thrilled to partner with Eventeny to bring you this episode where we chat with Cat McDevitt of Eventeny all about how to plan a successful festival. Cat shares the key pieces you need to get right, common mistakes to avoid, and how to manage everything from vendor relations to crowd safety. Whether you’re planning your first festival or just curious what goes into it, Cat’s tips and behind-t...

In this episode of the Better Events Podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the Northwest Event Show (NWES) here in Seattle! We share what makes this annual industry event a favorite of ours, our involvement this year, and a few standout moments from the show floor. Plus, we asked fellow event pros to share their top tip for creating a better event—and their answers did not disappoint. We...

In this episode of the Better Events Podcast, we’re talking all about working with vendors—what that really means and why those relationships are key to a successful event. From how to find trusted vendors for a new project to what info to share upfront, we’re answering common questions we hear from both new and seasoned planners. We’ll also chat about navigating high quotes, verifying expertise,...

In this week’s episode, we're celebrating 200 episodes of the Better Events podcast! That's over 6,000 minutes of event-related content across 5 seasons. In this episode, Logan and Mary answer your questions, from what you need in your portfolio to how to add cost-effective things that make a big impact to reaching out to sponsors for your events. You'll learn something you can apply to your event...

This week, we sit down with Deesha Dyer, a woman whose career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. As the former White House Social Secretary, she brings a unique perspective to our conversation, sharing her experiences and insights from orchestrating events on a global stage. We also dive into the art of event design, with Deesha sharing real-world examples and practical strategies to ca...

In this week’s episode, Mary deep dives into her latest experience at the infamous SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, Texas. She shares her key takeaways, lessons learned and how you can attend in the future. SHOW NOTES: Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/ Buy the replays to the 2024 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference Buy...

In this week’s episode, join Logan and Mary as they reflect on the first three months of 2025. They discuss the highs and lows of the quarter, sharing insights on the most rewarding aspects and standout moments that have shaped their early 2025. Listen as they delve into the strategies and practices they plan to carry forward, and learn how they intend to recharge and reset for the next bustling q...

In this week's episode, dive into the essential pre-event routines that seasoned event planners and producers swear by to ensure everything goes smoothly. From the final high-level preparations the day before an event to the non-negotiable tasks that set the stage for success, our discussion covers it all. Learn about the checklists, team protocols, and personal habits that keep top professionals...

This week, Logan and Mary dive into one of the trickiest topics for event professionals: determining what to charge for your services. They discuss the complexities of setting rates without a standard blueprint, how they feel about their current pricing, and the factors that influence their decisions. From understanding city-specific standards to adjusting fees for different event types and handli...

This week, we dive more into the misunderstood topic of tipping within the event industry. Logan and Mary delve into what tipping really means, how it differs from service fees, and who should be considered when gratuities are given at events. They address a listener's question about standard tipping practices and share personal experiences with tipping as event planners. Learn more about why tipp...

This week, Logan breaks down what information your A/V partner needs for your next event into five key areas to set your event up for success. Learn more about the questions your A/V company has and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to last-minute scrambling and budget increases. To watch the original series on Logan's YouTube channel, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoJPIWq7X...

This week, Mary shares a clip from her recent talk at the Non Profit Events Mini-Con in Seattle. Learn more about what you need to do first, at the beginning of your planning process, if you're getting ready for a fundraising event. SHOW NOTES: Follow Mary and her business at: Website: https://epevents.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epeventsllc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/epeven...

This week, we chat with Devon Pasha, emcee and founder of DMP Creative LLC, about the transformative power of event design. Devon shares her insights on how anyone can implement strategic design to elevate their events, from enhancing the check-in experience to revitalizing the stage program. She also shares real-life event design examples and simple, actionable tips you can apply to your next eve...