The Event Pro Show

General sessions rarely go exactly as planned, but the difference between a stressful event and a polished production often comes down to what happens before the audience ever walks into the room. In the final installment of the Designing a Better General Session series, Seth Macchi explains why rehearsals are one of the most valuable investments an event team can make. He shares practical strategies for improving run-of-show execution, preparing speakers, coordinating production teams, and creating the kind of confidence that keeps sessions on time and running smoothly. If you've ever felt like your general session was just one step away from chaos, this episode offers a better approach.

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

With experience leading production from both the client and agency side, Philip Johnson brings a perspective that few people in the events industry can offer. In this episode, Seth Macchi sits down with Philip, Vice President of Production Services at LEO Events, to talk about the leadership lessons, career decisions, and working relationships that have shaped more than 25 years in live events. Their conversation explores what it takes to build trust with clients, develop strong production teams, and create an environment where great events can consistently happen. Event professionals at every stage of their careers will find practical perspectives on leadership and building lasting partnerships in the meetings and events industry.

Resources:

LEO Events

Phillip's LinkedIn

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

When planners begin discussing AV for a general session, one of the first questions that comes up is surprisingly simple: How much equipment do we actually need? The answer is rarely as straightforward as counting microphones or choosing a screen size. Every production is different, and the right combination of lighting, video, and camera support depends on your goals, audience, content, and budget.

In this third installment of the Designing a Better General Session series, Seth Macchi breaks down the core AV elements that shape a successful corporate event. He explains how lighting, screens, and cameras each contribute to the attendee experience, why AV companies ask so many questions during the planning process, and how understanding the basics can help planners make more informed decisions. Rather than focusing on expensive upgrades, this episode offers practical guidance for creating a polished general session that delivers the greatest impact within your budget.

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

What does it take to build a successful event company and make a lasting contribution to the meetings and events industry? In this episode, Seth Macchi sits down with Sally Webb, founder and former CEO of The Special Event Company (TSEC), to talk about the experiences, relationships, and decisions that shaped her career.

As the founder of one of the industry's most respected event production companies, Sally reflects on growing a business, supporting the next generation of event professionals through education and mentorship, and the leadership principles that have guided her along the way. She also shares practical perspectives on company culture, client relationships, and what it takes to build a business that stands the test of time.

Resources:

TSEC

Sally's LinkedIn

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

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Before we jump into the next installment of Designing a Better General Session, it's worth remembering that a polished stage doesn't always require a bigger budget. In this episode, Seth Macchi focuses on the production choices that can dramatically improve the look and feel of a general session, showing how thoughtful design, strategic equipment selections, and attention to detail can create a more premium experience without dramatically increasing costs. If you're looking for practical ways to make your next corporate event look more refined while staying within budget, this episode offers ideas you can put to work right away.

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

What makes a destination, brand, or event truly connect with people? In this episode, Seth Macchi sits down with Najauna White, Vice President at Miles Partnership, to discuss the power of storytelling in hospitality and tourism, the importance of authentic connections, and the leadership principles that help organizations create meaningful experiences. Drawing from more than 15 years in the industry, Najauna shares her perspective on building strong teams, shaping inclusive environments, and helping destinations stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Resources:

Miles Partnership

Najauna's LinkedIn

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

What separates an average general session from one that truly delivers for attendees? In this first installment of Designing a Better General Session, Seth Macchi shares five AV decisions that can have a major impact on the success of a corporate event. Drawing on real-world production experience, he explains how thoughtful planning and the right questions can help planners avoid costly surprises while creating a stronger event experience.

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

What does it take for a city to become a destination that planners want to return to again and again? In this episode, Seth Macchi sits down with Ned Blair, CDME, Sales Director at Visit Charlotte, to discuss the partnerships, planning, and local expertise that help create successful meetings and events.

With more than two decades of experience in hospitality and destination sales, Ned shares his perspective on how convention and visitors bureaus support planners throughout the event lifecycle. The discussion explores Charlotte's continued growth as a meetings destination, the resources available to event professionals, and the relationships that help turn a great event into a lasting experience for attendees.

Resources:

Visit Charlotte

Ned's LinkedIn

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

In the final installment of The AV Playbook for Corporate Event Planners, Seth Macchi pulls back the curtain on everything that happens between signing an AV contract and arriving on site for your event. While planners often see the finished product, there is a significant amount of preparation taking place behind the scenes to ensure every detail is ready when show day arrives.

Seth explains how production teams coordinate staffing, secure equipment, manage logistics, develop creative elements, and build the schedules that keep events running smoothly. He also shares what planners should expect from a strong AV partner throughout the planning process and why clear communication during the weeks leading up to an event can have a direct impact on the final outcome. This episode provides practical context that helps planners better understand the work happening long before the first attendee walks through the door.

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/

In this episode of The Event Pro Show, Seth Macchi sits down with Michael Farrell, Director of Development at Van Wagner, to unpack one of the most misunderstood areas of live events and corporate meetings: music licensing. Michael shares how licensing impacts everything from walk-in music and playlists to live performances and streamed content, while explaining the legal and financial risks many planners overlook. The discussion also breaks down common misconceptions around Spotify, venue responsibility, and public performance rights. If your events use music in any capacity, this episode offers useful knowledge that could help you avoid expensive mistakes and better protect your organization.

Resources:

Van Wagner

Michael's Linkedin

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG.

LEMG is a leading event production company known for delivering exceptional experiences. From site planning and event design to technical production, staging, lighting, sound, and more—we do it all. As a second-generation company, we're proud of our rich history and commitment to innovation. Whether it's a corporate meeting, conference, convention, or live event, we're the team our clients trust to execute their vision flawlessly.

https://lemg.live/