Better Events

Parental leave in events doesn’t come with a playbook — so you have to build your own.

Parental leave can feel overwhelming for event pros considering starting a family — so what does it actually look like to plan for it? In this episode, Mary is joined by event pro Jessica Zimmerman to share their experiences navigating pregnancy while working in events, including how they’re approaching timelines, client communication, and stepping away from work. They get honest about what’s felt easier than expected, what’s been more uncomfortable, and how pregnancy has shifted their mindset around work. This is a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation for anyone thinking about leave — or supporting someone who is.

SHOW NOTES:Connect with Jessica Zimmerman:Instagram: @jessicatatezimmermanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-t-85260379/Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected] FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Frost to unpack what goes into organizing maker markets and what event pros can learn from them. We dive into her expertise on managing vendor relationships and how to set your event up for long-term success. She shares how she balances curation with inclusivity, prepares for common onsite challenges, and helps vendors feel genuinely supported, not just managed. A practical, values-driven conversation with lessons that apply far beyond markets to conferences, galas, and festivals.

SHOW NOTES:

Connect with Sarah Frost:

Website: ⁠www.makinglocal.com

Instagram: @makinglocalmarkets / @makinglocal (2 accounts)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakingLocalMarkets

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-frost-5b8254316/

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we flip the perspective from last week's episode and talk about what it really means to be an event contractor — and how to get hired (and rehired). We break down how contracting differs from freelancing or staff roles, which event positions tend to work best in this model, and what helps you stand out before you ever arrive onsite. We also cover professional rate conversations, boundaries, and how to be helpful without overstepping.

SHOW NOTES:

Relisten to the first part in last week's episode, Episode #245!

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to hire event contractors and build the right team for your events. We talk through which roles are typically contracted, how to decide what to outsource versus handle in-house, and where to find great contractors in the first place. We also share the signals that tell us someone will be a strong partner before show day — along with the red flags we’ve learned to take seriously sooner. Get ready to learn how you can use contractors to build out your team (and if you're a contractor, learn what folks hiring look for).

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about our partner Kilbreath Events: https://www.kilbreathevents.com/

Listen back to episode #115: https://open.spotify.com/episode/56rAzDgoEV1An0hNYI0Awa?si=l5VyW4_sSnCFa0FX9WwsIg

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we’re joined by Queen Noveen — an Emmy-nominated live announcer and voice actress whose voice has powered everything from major sports and awards shows to film, TV, and commercials. We dive into what live announcing actually entails, the preparation and pressure behind the mic, and why it’s far more than “just reading a script.” Queen shares stories from high-profile events, reflects on making history with the first all-female PA announcing team for the 49ers, and offers practical advice on how event organizers can better support on-camera and live talent. A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a role that shapes the energy of live events in real time.

SHOW NOTES:

Connect with Queen Noveen:

Website: ⁠www.QueenNoveen.com

YouTube: ⁠ ⁨@QueenNoveen⁩ 

Tiktok & Instagram: @QueenNoveen

Facebook: www.facebook.com/queennoveen

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/queennoveen

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this solo episode, Mary breaks down where nonprofits should actually spend their time when planning fundraising events — and where effort often gets misplaced. She walks through two common planning scenarios, sharing how to balance relationship-building with logistics, prioritize activities that drive real return, and avoid overspending without sacrificing impact. The conversation also digs into what makes an event “worth it,” from net revenue and donor retention to staff energy and burnout. A grounded, strategic listen for nonprofit teams looking to fundraise more thoughtfully.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Mary and her business: https://epevents.org/

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

While event themes and visuals get most of the attention, the production decisions behind the scenes are what truly shape how an event feels. In this solo episode, Logan unpacks the choices that matter most — from flow and staffing to rehearsal, timing, and the small details that quietly save the day. Drawing from real event experience, she shares where to focus your energy when everything feels important. A perspective-shifting listen for anyone responsible for making events run well.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Logan and her business: https://www.loganstrategygroup.com/

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

Managing a team is one of the biggest shifts many event pros make — and it rarely comes with a manual. In this episode, Owner and Event Strategy Lead of Synchronocity Events, Alex Martin joins us to share lessons from growing and supporting event teams over time. We talk about healthy communication, balancing involvement with autonomy, and how to tell the difference between people problems and systems problems. Thoughtful, real-world guidance for anyone stepping into leadership.

SHOW NOTES:

Connect with Alex Martin:

Website: www.synchronicity-events.com

Instagram: @synchronicity.events - https://www.instagram.com/synchronicity.events/?hl=en

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

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latestWant our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected] FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

We’re back with Part 2 of the boring side of events — because someone has to talk about bathrooms, signage, and load-in logistics. This episode covers the practical realities of planning events; everything from security and signage to load-in and first aid. We share what’s saved us, what we had to learn the hard way and why getting the boring stuff right makes everything else feel easier. Let's get ready to talk about the boring (but essential) side of events!

SHOW NOTES:

Pt 1 of the Boring Side - Episode 234: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4DNNYASkSllPTJ0HFu6siX?si=Ibt7i44US_qLZqh0nMUe2A

Exclusive Listener Offer: Learn more about Event Pro Suite and request your free demo today: https://eventprosuite.com/software-demo

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we’re doing one of our favorite things — revisiting our goals. We listen back to what we said we wanted to accomplish in 2025, react (honestly) to how it actually went, and share what surprised us along the way. From personal ins and outs to podcast and business goals, we reflect on what worked, what shifted, and what we’re carrying forward. We wrap up by setting new intentions for 2026 — including goals for ourselves, the podcast and what’s next for Better Events.

SHOW NOTES:

Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6

Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)