Have you ever considered the profound impact an emcee can have on the success of an event? In this episode of the Event Innovator Show, I sit down with Claire Forestier, a seasoned event emcee and attendee advocate, to explore the art of creating truly engaging experiences that resonate with audiences.

Claire shares her journey from journalism to event hosting, revealing:

• Why understanding attendee motivations is crucial for event success
• How to shift from a client-centric to an audience-first approach
• The importance of baking attendee experience into event planning from the start

Discover innovative approaches to event design, including:

• Reimagining traditional session formats for maximum impact
• Creating opportunities for meaningful audience participation
• Leveraging technology to capture and address attendee concerns in real-time

Learn how to turn reluctant attendees into enthusiastic participants by:

• Acknowledging and addressing audience concerns openly
• Crafting experiences that cater to diverse attendee needs
• Encouraging leadership to actively participate in engagement activities

Claire emphasizes the importance of:

• Tapping into the collective expertise of your event suppliers
• Bringing emcees and key partners into the planning process early
• Viewing your emcee as a strategic partner rather than just talent

Throughout our conversation, Claire challenges event organizers to rethink their approach to audience engagement, offering practical advice for creating events that truly resonate with attendees. Her insights provide a fresh perspective on the role of emcees as attendee advocates and partners in event success.

Whether you're planning your first event or looking to revitalize a long-standing conference, this episode offers valuable strategies for creating experiences that leave a lasting impact on your audience and drive real results for your organization.

Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to event planning and create experiences that truly connect with your audience? Tune in to discover how embracing attendee advocacy can transform your events and leave a lasting impression on your community.

Have you ever wondered how a community comes together in the face of disaster to save a beloved event? In this episode of the Event Innovator Show, I sit down with Dusty Buell, leader of the Wichita Open, and Ari Gross from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, to explore the incredible story of resilience, teamwork, and innovation that unfolded when nature threatened to derail one of Wichita's most anticipated annual gatherings.

Here are some of the things we discussed, including some unexpected insights into Taylor Swift's prowess as a marketer:

• Why 70% of attendees come for networking, not golf
• The importance of personalized interactions with 225 sponsors
• How a tight-knit community became the event's saving grace

• Partnering with local colleges for cutting-edge production
• Creating a women's leadership breakfast that outgrew its venue in just two years
• Adapting hospitality areas to prioritize relationship-building over golf-watching

• What Taylor Swift's approach to fan engagement can teach event organizers
• The unexpected benefits of crisis in fostering team cohesion
• Why attitude and grace under pressure are crucial for success

Throughout our conversation, Dusty and Ari share candid reflections on the moments that tested their resolve and the surprising opportunities that emerged from chaos. Their story is a testament to the power of community, the importance of flexibility in event planning, and the unexpected ways in which challenges can strengthen both personal and professional relationships.

Whether you're an event organizer facing your own crisis or simply looking to build a more resilient approach to your work, this episode offers invaluable lessons on the power of teamwork, positive attitude, and community support in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Are you ready to be inspired by a tale of triumph against the odds? Tune in to discover how the Wichita Open not only survived but thrived in the face of disaster, and learn how you can apply these lessons to your own events and challenges.

Have you ever wondered how to create truly meaningful connections at events, beyond the superficial exchange of business cards? In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Michel, Vice President of Professional Connexity at Velvet Chainsaw, to explore the art of fostering genuine relationships and community at conferences and gatherings.

• Why first impressions matter more than you think
• Innovative strategies for making solo attendees and first-timers feel instantly at home
• The power of recruiting an "army of connectors" to facilitate meaningful interactions

Sarah reveals her approach as a "content weaver," explaining how:

• MCs can set the tone for genuine connection from the moment attendees enter the room
• Simple techniques like call-and-response can transform passive audiences into active participants
• Thoughtful facilitation can bridge the gap between speakers and attendees, enhancing content retention

Learn why Sarah believes concurrent sessions are the untapped goldmine for networking, and how to:

• Train speakers to facilitate peer-to-peer interactions
• Design education sessions that foster connection without sacrificing content
• Create opportunities for meaningful dialogue throughout the event

Throughout our conversation, Sarah challenges us to rethink our approach to event design, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in creating spaces and moments for true connection. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on how to transform events from mere information exchanges to catalysts for community building and personal growth.

Whether you're planning your first gathering or looking to revitalize a long-standing conference, this episode provides actionable strategies to create events that resonate deeply with attendees and foster lasting relationships.

Are you ready to move beyond transactional networking and create experiences that truly bring people together? Tune in to discover how focusing on "connexity" can transform your events and leave a lasting impact on your community.