We spoke to Faith Smith who orchestrates all of Slate's live events. She puts together live tapings of podcast episodes, and has also organized conferences, panel discussions, happy hours, and much more. She offered us a literal backstage look at the way that those events come together, starting with the way that she gathers participants and finds a venue. She also talked to us about preparing for the events themselves and led us through her day-of efforts. Finally, she laid out some of her pet peeves for events gone wrong.

And in a Slate Plus extra,  Faith tells us of her early efforts for an upcoming event, Slate's 20th birthday celebration. Start your two-week free trial at slate.com/workingplus.

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @Jacob_Brogan

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