If the headlines feel chaotic, how do you figure out what is actually happening with the economy and what it means for your meetings?

In this episode of Event Planner Confessions, host Cara sits down with Mike Dominguez (ALHI) to cut through the noise and translate big economic signals into practical, planner level decisions. From why the “story” about the economy often misses what the data is showing, to where budgets are actually moving in 2026, Mike breaks down what to watch, what to ignore, and how to plan with more confidence.

You’ll learn:

• How to separate policy from politics so you can plan based on reality, not narratives
• What strong corporate spending signals for meetings, hotels, and attendee experience
• Why CEO turnover can quietly drive more internal meetings and momentum
• What Gen Z is craving from live events and how to design for human connection (hint: more white space)
• Smart budget calls for 2026: where inflation is easing, why labor still matters, and why beef may not be your friend

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