Denver NACE Podcast

Discover the superpowers that drive the world of event planning and leadership in our latest podcast episode, where empowerment takes center stage. Join us as we sit down with Denver's trailblazing women—Danielle Phippen, Heidi Brown, Shannon Martinez, and Jenny Maxwell—who are not just leading the charge in their community but also raising the bar on a national level. Their stories span the gamut of heartening kindness, the conception of innovative software, and the masterful orchestration of powerful brands. These narratives pack a punch, offering a treasure trove of insights that reveal the strategies and mindsets essential for triumph in event planning.

Feel the pulse of dedication as our guests unpack the intimate details of their professional odysseys, from surmounting industry tribulations to entrepreneurial ventures that bloomed amidst a pandemic. They don't hold back on sharing the secret ingredients to their business growth and development—community, authenticity, and an unwavering vision. Their chronicles do more than just inspire; they serve as a testament to the resilience and transformative power of embracing challenges and learning from the journey, all while celebrating each milestone with passion and humility.

As we round off the conversation, it becomes clear that achieving work-life harmony and cultivating success habits aren't just aspirational goals but attainable realities. Our panelists divulge how they've redefined morning routines and introduced new habits like 'happy hour' at home to reinstate patience and clarity into their bustling lives. Through engaging stories and dynamic exchanges, they leave us energized and echoing the powerful affirmation 'I am empowered,' reminding us that personal growth is at the very core of empowering others through leadership.

Shannon Martinez | Lusha Events 
https://www.lushaevents.com/

Jenny Maxwell | Planning Diva 
https://www.planningdiva.com/

Heidi Brown and Danielle Phippen | Access DMC 
https://www.accessdmc.com/

Thank you to our sponsors and especially Mike Bradley from Visualanties for the audio and video!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
 Video: Visualanties https://www.visualanties.com/
Audio for podcast: Visualanties https://www.visualanties.com/
MC: Bryan Rossmanith, Ignite Experiences https://igniteexperiences.com/
Sketchbots: A Custom Look Events https://www.acustomlook.com/
Photography: Johnathan Phillips Photography https://jonathanphillipsphotography.com/
Venue, Food and Beverage: Limelight Hotel Denver https://www.limelighthotels.com/denver?NCK=8334954216&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiArfauBhApEiwAeoB7qDCpa2vEQyyn9sdMhPbsCPMh_VvWQJT9YxlZaWEs3p5nGNaBl_RJFhoCx84QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Imagine stepping behind the scenes of Denver's most electrifying events with Kyrstin Schomberg, the producer of the Denver Nays podcast and a maestro of memorable experiences. She joins us to unpack the tapestry of her career, from the hospitality classrooms to the vibrant corridors of the Rally Hotel. Kyrstin, with a knack for conjuring up unforgettable events, offers a treasure trove of career insights and stories. She delves into the evolution of her role within the industry and the essential entrepreneurial verve that propels her success. It's a candid look at the gears that drive event planning, from meticulous budget management to ensuring every celebration leaves a lasting impression on both hosts and guests.

As the catering and sales manager at Denver's newest gem, the Rally Hotel, Kyrstin crafts events that are the talk of the town. She recounts moments when personal and corporate worlds collide in a symphony of planning and execution, like weaving a customized spectacle for Google. Her anecdotes span the spectrum of emotions tied to life's milestones—be it tying the knot or marking another trip around the sun. But it's not just about the glittering façade; Kyrstin also touches upon her inaugural year with NACE, the networking hub that's become her compass in the events universe. Tune in to share in the experiences that make Kyrstin Schomberg a beacon for budding and seasoned event professionals alike.

Embark on a flavorful expedition with Sarah Chianese, the gastronomic virtuoso behind Mangia and Enjoy, as we traverse her journey from the vibrant streets of New York to the scenic charm of Colorado Springs. Sarah's devotion to creating dishes that are more than just sustenance but rather, embodiments of affection, takes center stage in our latest podcast episode. With a focus on sustainability, her team's zeal for locally-produced and organic ingredients shines through every artfully crafted plate. Whether it's an intimate wedding or a grandiose event, Sarah's narrative is peppered with insights on the importance of a Farm to Table philosophy and the joys of uniting people through the universal language of food.

As we wander through the memories of Brooklyn's diverse neighborhoods, the place where my culinary flames were first fanned, we unlock the secrets of honing one's craft through the senses—even without a taste. I share tales of formative experiences, from cooking in Woodstock to a flourishing production career and back to my catering roots, emphasizing the gritty perseverance that fuels passion. Our conversation also spotlights the dynamic events industry and the significance of mentorship within it, weaving in our shared commitment to the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE). We wrap up with an open-hearted invitation to join the Denver NACE community, a beacon for anyone eager to blend, share, and expand their expertise in the eventful catering world.

Find Sarah at https://mangiaandenjoy.com/

Embark on a transformative exploration of intentional living with our esteemed guest Dawn Abbott, as we dissect the very fabric of aligning life's ambitions with your deepest values. Dawn, coach, author, and events industry luminary, imparts the wisdom from her book "Your Life is Not a To-Do List" and her engrossing talk at the recent NACE event. Discover the tools for self-awareness she recommends, learn why treating life as a checklist can lead to discontent, and grasp the power of focused effort to make meaningful strides in both personal and professional realms.

In the business universe, the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) stands out as a beacon of transformation, and we converse about its striking impact on organizations large and small. Hear stories of companies experiencing impressive profit growth and cultural rejuvenation by adopting EOS principles. Our dialogue extends to Dawn's journey from events industry expert to a coach passionate about guiding creative entrepreneurs towards success, highlighting the indispensable role of systems, culture, and authentic storytelling in crafting a career that's as rewarding as it is successful.

Dawn's book: Your Life Is Not a To-Do List can be found here.

Unlock the secrets to a year-round booming business with Desiree Kelly, our chapter president at NACE, as she slices into the world of innovative income strategies for event professionals. Together, we whip up a conversation that's as rich as the frosting on her signature cakes, sharing the recipe for her birthday cake subscription service that has transformed the way we think about generating consistent revenue. Imagine musicians serenading subscribers with monthly performances or caterers dishing out delectable corporate lunches. It's all about stirring up the perfect mix of creativity and passion to keep your services in high demand, no matter the season.

With Desiree's expertise, we peel back the layers on affiliate marketing, revealing how a smart use of ClickFunnels and a sprinkle of social media know-how can sweeten your earnings. We discuss the importance of cultivating fruitful partnerships during quieter months, just like the collaborative success found in Des's cake subscriptions. Moreover, we serve up practical insights on financial management with tools like QuickBooks, highlight the need for a rockstar team, and offer a taste of how side hustles can keep your staff's skills sharp and your business thriving. Prepare to feast on a banquet of actionable advice that will leave you hungry for success all year round.

Imagine the magic behind an impeccably organized event - the sound, lighting, decor, and more. Now, picture the maestro behind that masterpiece, Matt Palmer of ShowTech Events. With 17 years of industry experience, Matt takes us on an enlightening journey into the heart of event production, revealing why professionals are an absolute necessity for ensuring your event goes off without a hitch.

We lift the curtain on the specifics of sound and video production, exploring the complex web of equipment and personnel required for a flawless event experience. Matt shares his wisdom and war stories from managing different events, spotlighting the critical roles of equipment and staff - from an array of speakers for a 10-piece band to the unsung heroes in the form of technicians and engineers. 

Finally, Matt weaves inspiring tales of his networking journey through his membership with the Denver NACE chapter, revealing how it helped him elevate his business, meet new clients, and gain priceless advice from fellow industry professionals. His role on the fundraising committee is testament to his passion for making a difference and his commitment to continuous learning. Whether you're an event professional or just someone who appreciates the enchantment of a well-orchestrated event, this episode promises a treasure trove of insights.

Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey with us as we share the mic with the incredibly talented Bonnie Vidal, Denver NACE Director of Programming and Director of Sales at Biscuits and Berries Catering Company. This episode is packed full of Bonnie's experiences and insights - from her humble beginnings in California, to revolutionizing the sales approach in the events industry right here in Colorado.

Ever wondered how one transitions from being a server with big dreams to managing a team of event designers? Bonnie takes us through her personal journey, while shedding light on the shift from traditional sales techniques to a more collaborative, client-centric model. As the conversation evolves, Bonnie spills the beans on some exhilarating upcoming events that you wouldn’t want to miss, such as the Catering Olympics and the immensely popular Naught or NACE event. The dedication and creativity that Bonnie and her team pour into every event is truly inspiring and offers a deeper understanding of the industry. This episode is a testament to Bonnie's passion for bringing people together, and her knack for creating memorable experiences. So tune in, get inspired and take away some invaluable insights from the heart of the events industry!

In this episode, we interviewed Jared Judge, Music Director of Extreme Strings Electric Violins. Let's hear from him:

"Ever reminisce about a major life change that felt like jumping off a cliff? That's how my move from Milwaukee to Denver felt - leaving everything familiar behind for an unknown city. But it turned out to be a life-changing decision, thanks to the warm welcome I received from the Denver chapter of the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE). As the tables turn, I find myself on the other side of the interview table with Bryan Rossmanith from Ignite Experiences, sharing my journey in the events industry, from my humble beginnings in Milwaukee to my current work here in Denver.

Electric violin, once a novelty, has now become a mainstream sensation, bringing an electrifying twist to the event scene. But like any other discipline, it's not enough to just be good at it - marketing and strategy are key in establishing yourself in the field. By driving traffic to a well-crafted marketing funnel and measuring your return on investment, you can take your skills to a broader audience. As part of NACE, I've found that digital marketing not only increases my visibility but also helps attract new members - a strategy that I'm currently implementing for the NACE Denver chapter. 

Working in the events industry, I've realized that no one succeeds alone. Building a stronger industry means creating opportunities for everyone involved, and increasing our membership is one way to lift us all up. By working together, Denver can become an appealing destination for events, propelling us onto the international stage. But it's not just about business growth, personal development plays a pivotal role too - learning to solve problems, adapting to change, and embracing new challenges is all part of the journey. So, get ready for an enlightening discussion, packed with insights from my personal experiences, the importance of mentoring, and the power of a unified event industry."

In this episode of The Denver NACE Podcast, host Jared Judge interviews Bryan Rossmanith, the owner and founder of Ignite Experiences, a company that creates unique and interactive experiences for corporate and private events. Bryan shares his passion for creating shared experiences that build company culture and bring people together. He describes Ignite Experiences' most popular activity, mobile axe throwing, which involves setting up a 10-foot by 20-foot area where participants can throw real axes at pieces of wood. Bryan also talks about other activities that his company offers, such as DIY experiences, interactive backdrops, and renting out yard games, lighting, and decor.

Bryan also shares how he got into the business of helping people throw axes. He started by building a mobile axe-throwing setup out of pallets and stumps and going to festivals and fairs. Bryan's first festival was a success, and he made about $500 in profits, which motivated him to keep going. He emphasizes the importance of getting the word out about your business and actively practicing what you're selling. Bryan also talks about how he landed his first corporate event, which led to more clients and changed his life.

Throughout the interview, Jared and Bryan discuss the importance of finding a unique niche in the market and being passionate about what you do. Bryan's passion for creating shared experiences is evident in the success of Ignite Experiences, and his story provides valuable insights for anyone looking to start their own business or grow an existing one.

In this episode of The Denver NACE Podcast, Jared Judge interviews Desiree Kelly, the owner of the Makery Cake Company and the president of Denver's only nut-free bakery. They discuss the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) and its benefits for event professionals in Denver and Colorado as a whole. They also touch on the importance of personal development and finding a support system within the industry. Desiree talks about her experience running a business and how she prioritizes her marketing efforts to target a higher-priced market. Overall, the episode provides insight into the events industry in Denver and the importance of building relationships and supporting one another.