Hey planners and producers—it’s Tiffany Andrews here, and this week on The Convention Center Podcast, we’re serving up hot hospitality trends with a side of sass and smarts. I’ve wrangled our fan-favorite event experts, Jules and Aubrey, back into the studio for another round of “Two Truths and a Lie: Hospitality Edition.” From robot concierges to carbon-offset room rates, you will leave this episode rethinking your next site visit (and maybe side-eyeing your Alexa). Do you think you can spot the lie in our lineup of trends? Spoiler alert: One is totally fake but frighteningly plausible. If you're curious about what's real, what's hype, and what could be your next competitive edge, this episode is your practical roadmap. So press play and prepare to laugh, learn, and maybe question reality—because in meetings and events, the future is already checking in.

Hey hey, meeting pros—it’s Tiffany Andrews, your backstage pass to all things hospitality. This week’s Convention Center Podcast is hotter than a July load-in without AC. We’re diving into summer trends that’ll have you questioning what’s real, what’s next, and what the heck holograms have to do with badge pickup. But first, meet our studio guests —the dynamic duo, Jules and Aubrey —to play a round of Two Truths and a Lie: Hospitality Edition. And let's say—these trends are wild. Jules (a.k.a. Julie) is an Events Coordinator here at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center with a background in hospitality management and a Disney-trained flair for service magic. Aubrey, our Senior Events Coordinator, is a powerhouse planner with a degree in Communications, a minor in Spanish, and a gift for keeping every event running smoothly, much like a perfectly timed AV cue.

Do you think a $70 million esports prize pool is outrageous? Spoiler: it’s real, and it might outshine your keynote budget. Beach volleyball is now co-ed, team-based, and city-themed—because apparently, even sports are getting a brand refresh. And then there’s a hologram who wants to check you in, scan your palm, and suggest a latte—mmm, futuristic much? We’ll tell you what’s true, what’s maybe too true, and how to stay ahead of the trends without losing your sanity (or your badge). Buckle up because this episode is part industry insight, part game show, and 100% worth your ears.

Hey there, meeting planners and event producers! I'm Tiffany Andrews, your host for this episode of the Convention Center Podcast, where we're diving into one of the most important topics in the meetings and events world—fire and safety guidelines. Whether you're putting together your first event or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with tips and essential guidelines to keep your events safe, smooth, and stress-free. So, grab your notepad and make safety your new best friend!

Christian Sliker is the Fire Marshal and Battalion Chief with the City of Myrtle Beach Fire Department, where he has served since 2005. A credentialed Fire Marshal and FEMA-certified Master Public Information Officer, Christian is dedicated to public education and has helped the department win the Richard S. Campbell Award for Excellence in Public Education for eight consecutive years.

Vince Bettinazzi, a Deputy Chief with the Myrtle Beach Fire Department, has been with the department since 2007. He oversees emergency services and training and is deeply involved in leadership development through the National Fire Academy's Managing Officer Program and Executive Fire Officer program, where he is currently in his third residency. Vince is married to Aubrey and has twin daughters named Annalise and Raeya.

Podcast Questions we'll cover:

- Why Safety Matters from the Start

- Common Missteps & How to Avoid Them

- Navigating Venue-Specific Rules

- Communication is Key

- Emergency Preparedness: Beyond the Basics

- Final Takeaway: Safety as a Selling Point