2025 was a big year for events. Elections reshaped the global landscape. AI became more disruptive and unavoidable. And teams were stretched thinner than ever.

In this episode, Felicia Asiedu, Alyssa Peltier, and Rachel Andrews gather to reflect on the year that was. They also introduce the newest host joining the podcast, Camille Arnold. Together, they reflect on the trends they predicted, the ones that surprised them, and why so much of 2025 felt messy, exhausting, and foundational all at once.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What changed in the events industry this year: A recap of how AI, data expectations, and global shifts influenced event programs.
• Why data became impossible to ignore: Learn how AI accelerated the need for cleaner, more standardized event data.
• What to carry into the next year: Practical perspectives on what to keep, what to let go of, and how to head into the upcoming year with more clarity and intention.

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Introducing the new host of Great Events

(05:41) 2025 was a foundational year of learning

(10:11) Admitting no one has AI figured out yet

(16:23) Global shifts that changed event planning

(19:31) How events are being integrated across organizations

(26:04) Treating attendees like humans, not headcount

(27:35) Protecting time and making moments matter