What’s it really like to run one of the country’s top convention centers? In this episode, we chat with Jennifer LeMaster, President and CEO of the Washington State Convention Center, about her journey into events and what it takes to lead a massive venue like Seattle’s. Jennifer shares behind-the-scenes of her leadership journey, tips for planners working with large venues, and trends shaping the future of big events. Whether you’re dreaming of hosting at a convention center or just curious how it all works, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways.

SHOW NOTES:

Website: seattleconventioncenter.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenlemaster/

Learn more about the 2025 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Register directly for the conference: https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

In this week’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s often whispered about behind the scenes—ethics in event planning. From budget transparency and client values to security shortcuts and questionable speaker bookings, we’re breaking down the real ethical dilemmas event pros face. We’ll share tips for handling these moments with professionalism, integrity, and confidence—whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned planner. You’ll walk away with practical ideas to build an ethical foundation in your planning process and team culture.

SHOW NOTES:

Partner of the Pod - Learn more about Sean and the Audio Engineers Northwest: https://www.audioengineersnorthwest.com/contact-us

Episode 153: Growing Your Business: Do You Need to Hire to Grow?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJAPcTbUa_s

Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference (Oct. 1st & Dec. 18th): https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of planning the 2025 Better Events Conference, a conference created for event pros, by event pros. Back for our third year, we share what we're keeping and what we're changing with this year's conference, especially for the virtual day. You’ll hear our top tips for anyone planning a virtual or hybrid conference, plus how we keep attendees engaged and feeling connected from start to finish. Whether you’re curious about the planning process or looking for inspiration for your own events, this is your all-access pass to what’s happening so far—and what’s coming next.

SHOW NOTES:

Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference (Oct. 1st & Dec. 18th): https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

This week, we’re joined by Leanne Velky—better known as the Queen of Registration—to talk all things event registration websites and forms. Leanne shares why a solid registration setup is critical to event success, the must-have elements every site should include, and common mistakes to avoid. We also dive into how to collect the right attendee data without overwhelming people, platform recommendations and more. We even had her audit our 2025 Better Events Conference registration form so if registration impacts your role in events, you don't want to miss this episode.

SHOW NOTES:

Website: www.webuildregsites.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannevelky/

Past Registration Episodes:
Episode 119: Event Registration 101 - https://youtu.be/xTj6q_2021k
Episode 125: Onsite Event Checkin with Denise Glaser: https://youtu.be/nPAcGKZkMhA

In this week's episode, we’re sharing what’s saving our lives right now—personally and professionally. From time-saving tools to mindset shifts, books, and small joys, we’re each bringing a list of things that are making our event work (and life outside of events) a little better. Some are practical, some are playful, but all are worth a try. Whether you're in need of fresh inspiration or just love a good recommendation, this episode is full of ideas to support you this season.

SHOW NOTES:

Partner of the Pod - Learn more about Sean and the Audio Engineers Northwest: https://www.audioengineersnorthwest.com/contact-us

Opal (Logan's Referral Code): https://applink.opal.so/invite-friend?rc=KQSRJ&rId=3oXxF5YjcrdUY8qt9XW3psm4jRg2&rNme=Amethyst6732

Mary's Snack Rec: https://amzn.to/44VzI9S

Logan's Amazon Jewelry:

Earrings: https://amzn.to/40D9Z3x

Necklace: https://amzn.to/44SMhCV

Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference (Oct. 1st & Dec. 18th): https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

In this episode of the Better Events Podcast, we’re sharing bonus tips, lessons, and moments of growth from fellow event pros in our community. From practical advice to unexpected insights, these short clips offer real-world takeaways you can carry into your next event—and your next season of work. Plus, we react to each submission with our own thoughts and experiences. It’s a fun, reflective wrap-up full of wisdom from voices you know (and a few you’ll be glad to meet).

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about the conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

A conference for event pros, by event pros.

Join us virtually on Wednesday, October 1st, and in person in Seattle on Thursday, December 18th, at a secret location (to be announced to attendees in the weeks before the event).

Learn more about the conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Purchase a ticket now: https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

We're so excited to come together as a community to learn how to create, host, and attend Better Events! 

In this week's episode, we go behind the scenes , we’re joined by Beline Lafayette, Event Planner for the UF Florida Semiconductor Institute, to explore the unique world of event planning in higher education. With over seven years of experience and a background in marketing and event management, Beline shares how her work connects academia, industry, and community through strategic, purpose-driven events. We talk about the nuances of university contracting, collaborating with faculty, and what sets higher ed events apart from those in the corporate or nonprofit space. Whether you're new to university planning or simply curious about this sector, this episode is full of insights, stories, and tips you won’t want to miss.

SHOW NOTES:

This week, we’re brushing off our crystal balls and looking ahead to 2026—and revisiting the predictions we made last year to see what held up (and what totally missed the mark). From what excites us to what feels a little uncertain, we’re sharing our honest thoughts on what’s coming next in the event industry. Plus, we each make three fresh predictions for 2026 and react to clips of what we said in 2024. Join us for some time-traveling reflection and future-focused fun!

SHOW NOTES:

This week, we’re diving deeper into the freelance side of the event world with a real talk conversation about growth, boundaries, and sustainability. We share how we evaluate new opportunities, plan for slow seasons, and navigate scope creep mid-project. From raising your rates to hiring other freelancers, we cover the decisions that come with experience—and the ones we’re still figuring out. Whether you’ve been freelancing for years or are leveling up your business this season, there’s something in this episode for you.

SHOW NOTES:

Listen to our 101 episode, Episode 204: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0FLnNyRVtwa5WpGcAJiq4j?si=ZcEBVlbRR-KZ7N96a_9-Xg

Want our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected]

Join the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/

Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspod

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!

Leave us a rating on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1V

Leave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117

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@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)