On this episode of The EventTalk Podcast, we sit down with Jess McClain, an Olympic-level marathon runner who also is the Executive Director of the #LoveUp Foundation, where she creates life-changing experiences for foster children. Jess shares her journey from competing at the highest levels of sport to designing meaningful events that leave lasting memories. From improving the attendee experience at large-scale events to crafting moments of joy and connection for children in foster care, she gives us an inside look at how passion, purpose, and planning come together to make every experience unforgettable.

Tommy Nast shares how storytelling, sound, and timing have shaped every chapter of his career—and how he’s had a front row seat to some of the most unforgettable moments in live entertainment. From tech mishaps and backstage chaos to witnessing pure magic on stage, his stories capture the heartbeat of what makes this industry so electric. It’s music, mayhem, and major inspiration for anyone who loves the world of live events.

Episode 9 of The EventTalk Podcast – Hot Mics, Cold Drinks & Untold Disasters takes us back to the University of Arizona with Jill Hall, Rachel’s very first mentor in events. From epic tailgates and Hall of Fame celebrations to laugh-out-loud moments with Wilbur the Wildcat (and even a time when cat litter saved the day), Jill and Rachel reminisce about the unforgettable UA family. They also dive into the Territorial Cup—the oldest rivalry trophy in college football—and the chaos of seating charts that only event pros can truly appreciate.

Episode 8 of The EventTalk Podcast – Hot Mics, Cold Drinks & Untold Disasters features Emily Sadler, whose journey started with her working for a restaurant doing MLB spring training catering and when the restaurant how Dave first supported her early in her career change. When that chapter closed, Emily carved her own path into the business she thrives in today. From her commitment to sobriety as a cornerstone of her work, to wild buffet-line stories, to navigating interesting government job requests as a team, Emily shares it all with class—and just the right amount of sass.

On this episode of The EventTalk Podcast – Hot Mics, Cold Drinks & Untold Disasters, we sit down with Cameron Meyer, a professional artist and engraver/calligrapher who proves that no surface is safe from her creative touch. From glass to metal to unexpected canvases, Cameron shares the artistry and precision behind her craft. Plus, she tells a hilarious story about a nib and a surprising call she made to save the day when she needed something from home while setting up for an event. It’s a conversation full of creativity, quick thinking, and unforgettable moments.

What a blast with Elisabeth Irwin of Pop of Color on The EventTalk Podcast – Hot Mics, Cold Drinks & Untold Disasters! This episode took us inside the colorful, larger-than-life world of balloon art—from wild freeway balloon mishaps to jaw-dropping creations like 8-foot balloon dogs. Elisabeth shared behind-the-scenes stories of the artistry, chaos, and creativity that bring her balloon installations to life, plus her bucket-list dreams of decorating a private jet and designing Nordstrom’s iconic Christmas trees. It’s a conversation full of big ideas, bold color, and plenty of laughs.

What a ride with Lisa Cyr the co-ower and producer of Arizona Bike Week on The EventTalk Podcast - Hot Mics, Cold Drinks & Untold Disasters! This episode took us behind the scenes of Arizona Bike Week—from the incredible, kind hearted crowds it draws, to the legendary rock bands like KORN that have hit the stage. Lisa shared stories about camping onsite and hilarious stories of artist riders. She also gave us the inside scoop on what it was like to bring Arizona Bike Week back as the first live concert in the Valley post-COVID.



If you love live music, big events, and a few wild stories, this one’s a must-listen!

PART 2 - In this episode of The EventTalk Podcast, we sit down with powerhouse duo Joy Johnson—event planner —and Eddie Johnson—NBA veteran, sports broadcaster, and dynamic speaker.

From the courts to the event stage, Joy and Eddie share how they’ve turned their unique experiences into unforgettable events. They talk about blending strategy with style, what it takes to create moments that matter, and the unexpected curveballs (and clients) that still catch them off guard.

From managing the unique pressures of public life to building a business that blends purpose and professionalism, this episode dives into the dynamics of marriage with an NBA player—on and off the court. Joy and Eddie Johnson share how they support one another in the event world and beyond, using their individual strengths to create experiences that matter. They open up about the kinds of events today’s athletes really want to be part of—ones that feel authentic, intentional, and community-driven—and how they team up to bring that vision to life. It’s a conversation full of laughter, love, and the behind-the-scenes balance that makes their partnership so powerful.

Hot mics, cold drinks, and untold disasters—this one dives into what it’s really like to be partners in life and work.