エピソード

  • From PTA Volunteer to Fundraising Powerhouse — How Roger Devine Built SchoolAuction.net

    From PTA Volunteer to Fundraising Powerhouse — How Roger Devine Built SchoolAuction.net
    2025/06/30

    Jump into the lively world of auctions and fundraising with Roger Devine, co-founder of SchoolAuction.net. Hosts Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren explore innovative fundraising ideas, practical strategies for organizing successful events, and industry insights that help both seasoned and first-time organizers "win the game of events." From chicken bingo to dessert dashes, Roger serves up a playbook packed with actionable tips (and hilarious stories) that will level up any community fundraiser.

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Chicken Bingo & animal antics at events

    [02:00] - Roger Devine’s origin story and how he helped build SchoolAuction.net

    [09:40] - Top first steps for planning a fundraising event

    [13:25] - Paddle raises, auction strategy and engaging big donors

    [19:15] - Matching donations, recurring giving and the Last Ask game

    [22:38] - Dessert Dash, gamifying silent auctions and maximizing revenue

    [25:49] - The wildest auction items (vasectomies, goats & more)

    [29:28] - Crowd games to keep guests engaged

    [31:16] - Balancing fundraising with entertainment

    [33:54] - Emerging trends: Online silent auctions & optimizing item count

    [36:07] - Bundling items, fixed-price strategies & post-event sales

    [40:20] - Building long-term donor relationships from one-night events

    [43:20] - Signup parties, creating tradition-building events

    [44:36] - Biggest lessons learned from running events

    [47:42] - The power of a “sharing is caring” mindset and how to “do enough”

    Resources & Links:

    -Roger Devine: LinkedIn

    -SchoolAuction.net: Website, Instagram, Facebook, X

    -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

    Connect with Us:

    -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

    -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

    -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

    -Facebook: @Beats Working Show

    -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

    Follow & Subscribe:

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

    Send Feedback:

    If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

    BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

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    51 分
  • The Sidekick Way: Dan T. Rogers’ Blueprint for Winning in the Event Industry

    The Sidekick Way: Dan T. Rogers’ Blueprint for Winning in the Event Industry
    2025/06/23
    Alysse and Libby sit down with Dan T. Rogers — entrepreneur, culture builder, and pattern disruptor — to explore how work can be more than performance; it can be a place to practice becoming better humans. Dan reveals the origins of The Sidekick Way philosophy + ecosystem, how focusing on contribution over competition led to business transformation, and why practices like daily gratitudes and clear documentation can turn event chaos into unforgettable moments. Key takeaway: clarity, intentionality and gratitude are the unsung drivers of both personal fulfillment and high-performance event teams. Timestamps: [00:00] – Why Gratitude Practices Matter (Even If You Think They're “Hoo Ha”) [01:10] – Why the Events Industry Attracts Unique Talent [02:33] – From Truck Driver to Founder: Dan’s Backstory and Work Philosophy [06:37] – The Power of Systems: Documenting, Checklists, and Fighting for the Right Words [10:18] – Event People: “Control Freaks” and Why it Works [13:30] – How Focusing on Corporate Events Transformed the Business [18:13] – Three Years in Events: Why the “Land of Misfit Toys” Stays [22:06] – Culture as Glue: Doing Business as a Good Neighbor [27:13] – Building Customer Loyalty by “Freeing People Up” [31:35] – Staying Aligned: Gratitudes, Paradoxes & Sidekick Practices [34:08] – Making Gratitude Practical (Even for the Skeptical) [39:50] – The Six-Word Update: A Culture of Clarity [41:56] – Action Tip: Shift Your Focus from What’s Missing [43:29] – Closing Thoughts & How to Connect Resources & Links: -Dan T. Rogers: Website & LinkedIn -The Sidekick Way Ecosystem -The Intentional Course & Intentional Sidekick App -Classy Problems -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn Connect with Us: -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow -Facebook: @Beats Working Show -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST Follow & Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners. Send Feedback: If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com. BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.
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    44 分
  • DJ Baby Van Beezly's Journey from CPA to Top Seattle Wedding and Event DJ

    DJ Baby Van Beezly's Journey from CPA to Top Seattle Wedding and Event DJ
    2025/06/16
    Sit down with DJ Baby Van Beezly to explore her journey from CPA to club and wedding DJ, the artistry behind turntable performances, and the realities of parenting while working nights. Baby shares hilarious tales from the dance floor, her approach to creating unforgettable event atmospheres, and how she balances both creativity and client requests. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like behind the DJ booth, this episode delivers the inside scoop — with plenty of laughs, inspiration, and even a legendary “poop dollar” story from the Sundgren family vault. Timestamps: [00:00] - Libby’s rapping ambitions [01:00] - Meet DJ Baby Van Beezly [03:13] - How Baby chooses her gigs & the club vs. wedding DJ approach [05:25] - The art of club-style DJing and reading the room [08:00] - Challenges with client-curated playlists [09:48] - Building energy and cross-generational dance floors [12:12] - From CPA to DJ: Baby's career leap [14:38] - The importance of mentorship & meeting her DJ idol [17:55] - Parenting, work-life balance, and being a DJ mom [20:12] - Post-gig rituals & (vegan) DJ snacks [22:51] - Comfort TV: Why "The Office" is the perfect wind-down [24:45] - Wild dance floor moments & the joys of corporate event people-watching [27:14] - The (very few!) songs DJs could live without [28:48] - Country line dancing and the Reverse Cowgirls [30:22] - Where to find Vanessa & closing thoughts [31:50] - Bonus: The legendary “Poop Dollar” game Resources & Links: -Baby Van Beezly: Website, Instagram, Facebook -Listen to From Coachella to Corporate: Kelli Bielema’s Wild Ride in Events -Line Dancing with The Reverse Cowboys -Millennial Club Nights at The Lumber Yard Bar -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn Connect with Us: -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow -Facebook: @Beats Working Show -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST Follow & Subscribe: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners. Send Feedback: If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com. BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.
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    35 分
  • The Fun Table - Theme Parties: Love 'Em or Hate 'Em?

    The Fun Table - Theme Parties: Love 'Em or Hate 'Em?
    2025/06/09

    It’s all wigs, wine, and Wonder Woman costumes as Alysse Bryson, Libby Sundgren, and the Fun Table crew dive into the highs and hilarities of theme parties! The gang tackles the eternal question: are theme events a fabulous treat or a stressful trick? With stories of Tony Danza extravaganzas, Seattle’s unique dress codes, and tips for making everyone feel included (costume closet or not), this episode is packed with laughter, practical wisdom, and a dash of glitter. Walk away with fresh ideas to up your event game and new confidence for your next invite — no matter how wild the theme!

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Dress codes: WHAT IS smart casual?!

    [02:48] - Costume and PTA president lore

    [06:20] - Opera misadventures, leaving early, and late-night cheeseburgers

    [09:27] - Theme parties: Love them or hate them?

    [11:05] - Most creative themes ever (Tony Extravaganza FTW)

    [12:18] - Inclusivity: How to help guests feel welcome & stress-free

    [13:38] - Communication tips for neurodiverse and introverted guests

    [18:49] - Unique dress codes and relaxed Seattle style

    [24:15] - Creative “easy” themes that everyone can participate in

    [26:50] - TikTok party trends, terrible T-shirts, and dream party ideas

    [29:10] - Golden Girls, Matrix, 80s food parties, and more dream themes

    [32:03] - How much is too much? The line between fabulous detail and “extra”

    [35:07] - Good swag, sustainability, and party planning on a budget

    [39:06] - Martha Stewart, party privilege, and scaling down with style

    Resources & Links:

    -Meet The Fun Table: Kristin Graham, Amy Liz Harrison, Dele Downs Kooley, Sarah Caples Noble

    -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

    Connect with Us:

    -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

    -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

    -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

    -Facebook: @Beats Working Show

    -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

    Follow & Subscribe:

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

    Send Feedback:

    If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

    BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

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    40 分
  • From Theme Park Slideshows to Global Experiential Events with Keith Alper

    From Theme Park Slideshows to Global Experiential Events with Keith Alper
    2025/06/02

    Keith Alper is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, and powerhouse in experiential marketing and event production. In this episode of BEATS WORKING, he shares stories from 40 years of leading global events for iconic brands, the secret sauce for connecting head and heart at events, leadership lessons from accidental entrepreneurship, and why crafting unforgettable moments hinges on the smallest details (and the best snacks). You'll be inspired by Keith’s passion for people, culture, and elevating every in-person experience from like to love.

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] - Reemergence of live events & craving human connection

    [02:29] - Keith Alper’s intro, background, and accidental entrepreneurial journey

    [07:09] - Hustle, resilience, and the real secret of leadership

    [10:53] - Creating connection at scale: The “head and heart” formula

    [16:23] - The power of details, honest feedback, & restroom reconnaissance

    [21:31] - Energizing teams, culture, and Keith’s unique hiring process

    [26:46] - "From Like to Love": How brands turn engagement into loyalty

    [39:41] - Preparing for high-stakes events (snacks, shoes, and surprise backups)

    [48:55] - Keith’s future outlook: AI, seamless experiences, and lowering friction

    [54:23] - Wrap-up, gratitude, and a teaser for “weird stories” future episodes

    Resources & Links:

    -Keith Alper: Website and LinkedIn

    -Book: "From Like to Love"

    -Nitrous Effect

    -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

    Connect with Us:

    -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

    -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

    -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

    -Facebook: @Beats Working Show

    -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

    Follow & Subscribe:

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

    Send Feedback:

    If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

    BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

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    56 分
  • How Michelle Wight Turned a Side Hustle into a Seven-Figure Bridal and Beauty Brand

    How Michelle Wight Turned a Side Hustle into a Seven-Figure Bridal and Beauty Brand
    2025/05/26

    Bridal and celebrity makeup artist Michelle Wight shares her journey from side hustle to leading a thriving seven-figure beauty business, reveals behind-the-scenes stories from weddings and celebrity shoots (including the Seattle season of "Love Is Blind"), and dishes real talk on growth, hiring, and staying inspired in a fast-paced industry. From wild client moments to advice on hiring for people skills, this episode is packed with laughs, grit, and actionable insights for anyone working in events — or dreaming big.

    Timestamps:

    [00:00] – Hilarious client stories & why mother-of-the-bride moments matter

    [05:00] – Michelle’s business growth: from solo to a 16-person team

    [13:00] – The leap from hospital work to full-time beauty

    [16:00] – The challenges (and chaos) of scaling quickly

    [17:45] – Event mishaps, high-maintenance clients, and customer service lessons

    [26:00] – Weirdest fixes & what Michelle packs in her kit

    [28:30] – Product recommendations & aging skin tips

    [32:00] – Staying inspired: creativity, styled shoots, and ongoing education

    [36:45] – Biggest mistakes and what hiring the wrong way taught her

    [39:45] – It Ain’t Bragging If It’s True”: "Love Is Blind," People Magazine, and more

    [43:34] – Where to find Michelle

    Resources & Links:

    -Michelle Wight Makeup Artistry: Website & Instagram

    -Michelle's Ultimate Makeup Pick: MAKEUP BY MARIO

    -Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

    Connect with Us:

    -Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

    -LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

    -Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

    -Facebook: @Beats Working Show

    -YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

    Follow & Subscribe:

    If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

    Send Feedback:

    If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

    BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.


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    45 分
  • Inside Seattle’s Henry Mural Tour with Fire-Breather David Roman

    Inside Seattle’s Henry Mural Tour with Fire-Breather David Roman
    2025/05/19
    Sit down with David Roman (a.k.a. “Roman”), owner and lead guide of the Henry Mural Tour Company in Seattle. David shares the story behind Seattle’s iconic 'Henryverse,' his deep friendship and partnership with prolific street artist Henry, and the unexpected adventures that come with leading creative tours — including fire-breathing at Burning Man. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at Seattle's vibrant mural scene, the logistics and magic of event planning, and a sneak peek at the new Sober Curator happy hour tours launching in May 2025. Timestamps:[00:00] -David Roman and his connection to Henry, Seattle’s legendary muralist[03:40] - How the Henry Mural Tour came to be and stories from the Seattle street art scene[07:01] - Henry’s “1,000 Sasquatch Garage Doors” project[13:15] - What it’s like guiding the tour and evolving the experience for each group[16:45] - The diversity and hidden gems of Seattle’s mural locations[20:18] - The Sober Curator happy hour tours explained[25:21] - How long do murals last? Tagging, restoration, and community support[30:49] - David’s favorite parts of Seattle and building city pride[34:53] - Why everyone should volunteer at festivals and participate in the arts[35:39] - Fire-breathing origins: From Burning Man to Fremont’s Cirque du Flambe[47:44] - Clarification: No fire-breathing on the Henry tour bus![48:24] - How to book the Henry Mural Tour and The Sober Curator Happy Hour experienceResources & Links:-Henry Mural Tours: Website, Facebook, Instagram-GET TICKETS: The Sober Curator Happy Hour Tour-Henry the Artist-The Sober Curator-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedInConnect with Us:-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow-Facebook: @Beats Working Show-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCASTFollow & Subscribe:If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.Send Feedback:If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com. BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.SHOW SUMMARY:Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where event lovers (and planners) Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.
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    51 分
  • Behind the Curtain with Fashion Show Producer and Icon Terri Morgan

    Behind the Curtain with Fashion Show Producer and Icon Terri Morgan
    2025/05/12
    Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren sit down with Seattle fashion icon Terri Morgan, owner and director of TCM Models and Talent, on this episode of BEATS WORKING. With over 35 years in the industry, Terri shares how the world of fashion events has adapted post-pandemic, the realities behind inclusivity on the runway, the essential blend of grit and creativity in her business, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories…some glamorous, some delightfully chaotic! If you’ve ever wondered what really happens backstage at fashion week — or what it takes to build a legacy in fashion — this episode is for you.Timestamps: [00:00] - Alysse’s hilarious fashion show mishap 😬[02:15] - Terri Morgan and her impact on the NW fashion/events scene [03:12] - Fashion event pivots during and after the pandemic [06:38] - Runway inclusivity, shifting trends, and the realities of sample sizing [11:22] - Social media and technology’s impact on modeling and event production [14:07] - Kids in modeling, parent pitfalls, and working “momagers” [17:47] - Model development, agency/family culture, and radical candor [24:04] - The realities of backstage chaos vs. onstage glamour [26:17] - Creative process: music, media, choreography, and event inspiration [33:21] - Mentorship, supporting local designers, and evolving Seattle’s fashion scene[35:39] - The unglamorous side: racks, secret parking spots, and makeshift event offices [39:31] - Event day prep, rituals, and post-show decompression [42:24] - Iconic runway moments and personal favorite productions [44:52] - Alysse’s most embarrassing event memory (and a lesson in “girl code”) [51:20] - Terri’s career journey, business legacy, and gratitude [52:27]Resources & Links:-Terri Morgan: LinkedIn-TCM Models: Website, Facebook, Instagram-Bellevue Collection: Website & Fashion Week-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedInConnect with Us:-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow-Facebook: @Beats Working Show-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCASTFollow & Subscribe:If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.Send Feedback:If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com. BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.SHOW SUMMARY:Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where event lovers (and planners) Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.
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    54 分