Mental Health on the Show Floor: Thriving Under Pressure with Petra Velzeboer | The Expo Factor Podcast Ep. 9

Episode 9 of The Expo Factor Podcast
Why Mental Health Matters in the Events Industry

In this episode, host Lee Ali sits down with leading mental health expert and speaker Petra Velzeboer to tackle one of the biggest challenges in the events and exhibitions industry: stress, burnout, and resilience.

From trade show floors to behind-the-scenes event planning, professionals in this industry face constant high pressure. Petra shares powerful insights and practical strategies to help event organisers, exhibitors, and trade show teams thrive without sacrificing their wellbeing.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why emotional regulation is the ultimate event professional skill

• How to prevent burnout by releasing stored stress

• The importance of psychological safety and team backup

• Why knowing your personal recovery style boosts performance

• How leaders can support staff with flexibility and empathy

Whether you’re an event manager, trade show organiser, exhibitor, or event marketer, this episode will give you actionable tools to protect your mental health and build stronger, more resilient teams.

Key Quote from Petra: “Stress is not the enemy. Ignoring it is.”

Don’t miss this essential conversation for anyone working in events, exhibitions, and trade shows.

Find out more about the episode here - Mental Health Strategies for Thriving at Trade Shows

In Episode 8 of The Expo Factor, Lee Ali welcomes transformation strategist Daphne S. Leger to explore a topic that sits at the heart of every exhibition, organisation and team performance. Change.

With decades of experience leading people-first change initiatives across global companies, Daphne brings deep insight into how culture and leadership influence everything. From how your people show up on the show floor to how your business grows in a fast-moving world. With experience training over 10,000 leaders across 15 countries, Daphne brings deep expertise in the field of change – she’s not just talking theory, she’s lived it.

This episode is not about minor tweaks; it is about stepping back and asking the hard questions.

Are we really using change in the right way?

Find out more about the episode at Driving Change. Where It Matters: People, Culture, and the Show Floor

Read Daphne's latest book all about change! https://www.thefutureproof.life/

In episode 7 of The Expo Factor, Lee Ali sits down with Deanna Krause, a global authority on booth staff performance and motivational leadership. With over 20 years immersed in the live events industry, Deanna reveals the game-changing secret to exhibition ROI: your people.

Forget flashy stands or giveaway swag, Deanna makes a compelling case that engaged, well-trained booth staff are your biggest untapped asset. Discover practical strategies for briefing, real-time leadership, and mindset shifts that turn your team into a powerhouse of authentic connection and sales success.

Whether you’re launching your first show or leading a seasoned program, this episode delivers must-hear insights for marketing leaders, sales teams, and event pros looking to maximize impact and create unforgettable brand experiences.

Find out more about the episode here How to build a high performance booth teamConnect with us on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest episodes, plus helpful tips and insights to improve your business.

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