Better Events

This week, we’re recapping the 2025 Better Events Conference — what worked, what surprised us, and the moments that stuck with us most. We reflect on attendee feedback, lessons learned, and how our goals for the conference showed up in real time.. We’re also joined by conference sponsor and friend of the pod Alycia Drube, who conducted a sustainability audit of our in-person day and shares thoughtful insights on what we did well and where we can continue to improve. A behind-the-scenes debrief on building better events, more intentionally.

SHOW NOTES:

Learn more about Alycia Drube and her business: alyciadrube.com

Listen to Alycia’s Event Sustainability Dog Walk podcast: https://alyciadrube.com/podcast

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)

As we kick off Season 6, we’re looking back at the lessons 2025 taught us — both as event professionals and as business owners. We go back and forth on what worked, what challenged us, and the things we had to learn the hard way. From collaboration and boundaries to decisions we’d approach differently next time, this episode is all about honest reflection as we get ready to start a new season of the podcast and our careers.

SHOW NOTES:

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)

As we wrap up Season 5, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what this year really meant for us as event professionals and business owners. We talk honestly about the wins, the hard lessons, and how collaboration over competition shaped our work this year — plus where AI fit into our workflows. We also look ahead to 2026, share what we’re excited about next, and give a sneak peek at what’s coming in Season 6 (and at BEP Con!).

SHOW NOTES:

Register for the Better Events Conference and other key links: 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 special mailbag episode, we're answering your questions — the ones event pros swap in DMs, backstage, and over conference coffees. We’re diving into everything from audience engagement and creative networking ideas to reading the room and navigating A/V pricing. We also share our favorite run-of-show hacks, how to keep events seamless with a tiny team, and the essential business tools every planner should have. Additionally, we cover certifications, professional groups, and where to find community in this industry. It’s packed with real talk, practical tips, and the advice we wish we had earlier in our careers.

SHOW NOTES:

Register for the Better Events Conference and other key links: 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)

Not every part of event planning is glamorous—but ignoring the “boring stuff” can cause big problems. In this episode, we’re shining a light on the unsexy yet essential logistics behind successful events: permits, power, parking, trash, and WiFi. From permit surprises to power mishaps and vendor parking puzzles, we share real examples and tips that can save you from day-of disasters. Whether you’re a seasoned planner or just starting out, this is your behind-the-scenes checklist you didn’t know you needed. (And yes, there’s even more to cover—stay tuned for Part 2 next season!)

SHOW NOTES:

Register for the Better Events Conference and other key links: 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)

If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out in a sea of event pros—or when it’s the right time to add something new to your offerings—this episode is for you. We’re digging into what growth really looks like as an event business, why differentiation matters more than ever, and how to identify your unique value in a crowded market. Plus, we share real examples of services we’ve added (or walked away from), how we test new ideas without overwhelming clients, and how to grow with purpose, not just pressure. Whether you’re pivoting, expanding, or refining, this episode will help you move forward with clarity.

SHOW NOTES:

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

Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference (In-Person Day Only - Dec. 18th): https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

Learn more about the Better Events Conference and other key links: 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)

We’re pulling back the curtain on the 2025 Better Events Conference and sharing more about the planning behind the in-person day—and what’s got us most excited about it. We also share tips for keeping attendees engaged, lessons learned so far, and a few things we’re still figuring out. Whether you're planning your own conference or just curious how we make it happen, this one’s packed with practical insights and behind-the-scenes perspective.

SHOW NOTES:

Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference (In-Person Day Only - Dec. 18th): https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

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

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

Curious about what it really takes to succeed in the world of corporate events? In this episode, we sit down with Gianna Gaudini, a master corporate planner and event strategist, to explore what sets corporate events apart, how to break into the space, and how to design with intention. We also unpack attendee journey frameworks, common gaps hotels overlook when serving planners, and career shifts for those looking to level up. Whether you’re a nonprofit pro or an event planner eyeing corporate gigs, this episode is packed with practical advice and behind-the-scenes wisdom.SHOW NOTES:Get 20% off her masterclass with the code: GiannaVIP https://www.giannagaudini.com/learn-from-meConnect with Gianna Gaudini:Website: https://giannagaudini.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/giannagaudini/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giannagaudini/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giannagaudini/Learn more from Gianna: https://www.giannagaudini.com/learn-from-meRegister & learn more about the 2025 Better Events Conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conferenceJoin the paid Better Events Community: https://bettereventspodcast.substack.com/Buy Us a Coffee Link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bettereventspodTHANKS 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/04ivq77TMgF5HhJHJOMe1VLeave us a review on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/better-events/id1561944117——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bettereventspod@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)@epeventsllc (Mary)

Talking about money isn’t always easy—but it’s essential, no matter if you're running an event business or navigating your event career. In this episode, we dive into one of the most important (and sometimes awkward) parts of the job: raising your rates. Whether you're a freelancer negotiating your next contract or an internal event pro prepping for a raise conversation, we share the signs it’s time to ask for more, how to navigate pushback, and the mindset shifts that make money talks feel less scary. Tune in for actionable tips, real stories, and confidence-boosting strategies to help you value your work—and get paid what you're worth.

SHOW NOTES:

• Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference ( In-Person Day Only - Dec. 18th): https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration
• Learn more about the conference: https://bettereventspod.com/conference

Our episode on building a profitable event business (Episode 96): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaF3GOTkfDQ

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

——

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)

What’s an event that still haunts you? In this special live episode from the 2025 Better Events Conference, we’re swapping real-life horror stories from events gone wrong—tech fails, miscommunications, last-minute surprises, and more. You’ll hear tales from Mary, Logan, and our audience that will make you laugh, cringe, and nod in solidarity. Plus, we reflect on the early warning signs of chaos and the lessons we carry with us into every show. Tune in for stories, takeaways, and a reminder that even the best event pros have their haunted moments.

SHOW NOTES:

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

Register for the 2025 Better Events Conference on Dec. 18th: https://app.swapcard.com/login/event/2025-better-events-conference/registration

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

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

—

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:

@bettereventspod

@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)

@epeventsllc (Mary)