Join us on The Conference Collective as Nicole White delves into the crucial topic of self-care in the bustling world of events. Nicole emphasises the importance of personal well-being for professionals in the industry, highlighting how taking time for oneself contributes to enhanced performance and productivity.Discover practical mindfulness tips as Nicole shares insights on finding balance in a demanding field that often involves future planning months in advance. The discussion encourages ...

In this episode of The Conference Collective, Darrell Hardidge takes centre stage to unravel the intricacies of customer success in the realm of business events. Join us as we delve into the critical role of analytics and reporting in monitoring client satisfaction, event success, and attendee engagement.Darrell sheds light on common pitfalls affecting client happiness and emphasises the pivotal role of effective communication. The discussion unveils why proactive engagement with clients is p...

In this episode of The Conference Collective, we are thrilled to welcome Rebecca Wessels, the founder and CEO of Ochre Dawn, to discuss the transformative power of Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs). Rebecca shares her insights on what RAPs are and why they are crucial for businesses aiming to foster inclusivity and reconciliation within their communities. Learn practical steps for incorporating a RAP into your event, and understand the importance of building genuine relationships with local ...

On this episode of The Conference Collective, dive into the enchanting world of music, events, and well-being with our guest, Ciaran Gribbin. Throughout the episode, Ciaran discusses his rich background in the music and events industries, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of sound and health within our personal lives, and in our events. Ciaran further delves into the profound health benefits of breathwork and shares practical ways to incorporate these elements into your upcomi...

In this episode of The Conference Collective, Dr. Lucy Mercer-Mapstone shares invaluable insights on fostering inclusivity and safety in business events. Join us as we explore the nuances of planning for accessibility and discover small, impactful changes that can be implemented to make events more inclusive.Dr. Mercer-Mapstone highlights common pitfalls in event planning and discusses the systematic changes needed to create truly inclusive events and workplaces. The conversation extends to l...

In this episode of The Conference Collective, we explore the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) with Craig Rispin, a renowned futurist. Craig provides insights into the history and evolution of AI, from its origins to its current state, highlighting the transformative impact of AI on productivity and efficiency across various industries.The conversation delves into people's perceptions and fears surrounding AI, addressing common concerns about the unknown and change associated ...

Join us on The Conference Collective as Michael Fleck guides us through the dynamic landscape of business events in 2024. Michale delves into the importance of not just talking about sustainability but implementing policies and practices that create a lasting impact and emphasises the need for events to be 'real,' resonating with audiences regardless of their format. Michale further explores the vital role of data in the early stages of event planning, highlighting the significance of monitor...

In this episode of The Conference Collective, we're joined by Rachel Hibble, who takes us on her inspiring career journey with OzHarvest, a leading organisation in the fight against food waste. Rachel shares insights into OzHarvest's current and future plans, shedding light on the profound impact of food waste on our environment. Delve into practical tips as Rachel discusses how organisations can play a pivotal role in reducing food waste and gain valuable insights into implementing sustainab...

Join us on The Conference Collective Podcast as we sit down with Barry Neame, PCOA president, to discuss the association's plans for 2024 and beyond. Barry shares insights into the future of PCOA, outlining upcoming initiatives and goals, while sharing details about this year's focus on helping members navigate contract negotiations. Explore the pivotal role The PCOA plays in supporting the broader event industry, from fostering the next generation of event organisers, to providing crucial...

On this episode of The Conference Collective, Mykel Dixon shares his insights on creating standout events that resonate with attendees. From challenging norms to embracing innovation, Mykel discusses the power of simplicity, creative thinking, and the courage to take risks. Discover how to connect with your audience, switch up your event, and gain practical advice for speakers and MCs, while learning about the need for us to break free from conventional event structures.  About Mykel...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Helen Oswald who shares her top tips on capturing prominent moments from your next event. Helen discusses how to maximise staging and what design features will have a positive impact on photograph composition. Helens warns you on common mistakes event organisers make that can detract from your images while shedding light on how an event photographer can add value for your sponsors and enhance your brand. Helen further shares ways...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Belinda Meredith who discusses the significant waste problems in the exhibition and event space along with the sustainability practices that event organisers, stand builders, and exhibitors can implement to combat this. Belinda also draws attention to the impact that an event’s venue has upon stand design and further highlights the benefits of innovation when designing your exhibition booth. About Belinda Meredith: Belinda is...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Liliana Sanelli who takes us through the process of creating and implementing The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay 2023 event for Legacy Australia. Liliana sheds light on the challenges the team faced throughout both the planning and execution stages of the event, along with how she managed to keep the team motivated across this large international project. Liliana further shares with us a few of her core memories while working on...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Adrian Smith, director of Cor Comms, who discusses his top marketing tips for your event. Adrian sheds light on how social media platforms have shifted the ways in which marketing content is produced, highlighting the need to create different forms of the same piece of content to suit the needs of the variety of platforms available. Adrian further talks about focusing marketing budget into content production and creation rather...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Denise Broeren, Co-Director of Think Business Events. Denise shares her journey in the events industry and sheds light on her experience working on the 2022 WFOT Congress. Denise further discusses the challenges that come with hosting international events and how she managed to overcome any cultural differences that were experienced during the WFOT Congress in Paris. About Denise Broeren: Denise Broeren is an accomplished PCO...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Chris Ridd, CEO of EventsAir. Chris discusses how industry trends have shaped and are continuing to shape EventAir’s strategy along with how event organisers can effectively implement event technology. Chris sheds light on the importance of data safety and further shares tips on how to engage a virtual and hybrid event audience. About Chris Ridd: Chris joined EventsAir as CEO in September 2022 and has over 30 years' experience...

In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Anne-Marie Quinn, Managing Director at All Occasions Group. Anne-Marie shares her experience with discovering a sense of purpose, both personally, and within her business. Anne-Marie further highlights how her environmental beliefs channel into the ways she runs her business and provides guidance and tips on how to run your events more sustainably. Anne-Marie also sheds light on how she fosters growth within her team and is...

In this episode of ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’, Andrew Klein sheds light on how event organisers can create a better conference experience for attendees through changing the traditional agenda timeline and switching to shorter presentation sessions. Andrew also discusses the ways in which an MC can elevate your event and when an MC may not be worth your while. 

In this episode of ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’, Chris Schlueter sheds light on how businesses can create more engaging events through registration techniques and innovative event features. Chris also discusses the impact that the Metaverse will have on the business event industry going forwards in a digitally switched on world. 

In this episode of ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’, Sharon Natoli discusses how she helps individuals, teams and leaders build team connection, confidence and culture by running events over food and facilitated conversation. Sharon highlights how opening up conversations, both during events and in the workplace, leads to greater comfort and productivity among attendees and employees. 

In this episode of ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’, Gary Manuel discusses how Luna Park used COVID-19 closures to plan for the expansion of the park. Gary brings to light how Luna Park Venues are coming back to pre Pandemic guest numbers and how they are preparing their venues for the re-emergence of live events.   

Adrienne Readings discusses how the business event industry has shifted towards collaboration in light of some of the hardest years the industry has faced. Adrienne talks about changes that venues have had to put in place and how they are moving forward as Australia opens back up to the live event world. 

Professor Veena Sahajwalla sheds light on how we can implement everyday solutions to create a global shift towards sustainability. Professor Sahajwalla discusses her work inventing new recycling processes for materials that conventionally are not recycled and also talks about her sustainability trends for the near future.

Arna Wahl Davies discusses how lockdowns across New Zealand throughout the Pandemic forced the business events industry to come together and implement new ideas and strategies in order to survive. Arna highlights how this collaboration within the industry has lead to a positive approach to events starting up again and forecasts that this united approach is likely to continue going forwards.