Elevate Your Event

Creating an Immersive Event Experience: Art, Music, and Guest Magic with Sky MaddenThis week on Elevate Your Event, we are joined by Sky Madden—owner of Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre and Executive Director of the Museum of Outdoor Arts in Greenwood Village, CO—for a conversation about creating events that are anything but ordinary. Fiddler’s isn’t just a concert venue—it’s a piece of living art, a 17,000-seat amphitheater born from sculpture, sound, and thoughtful design. From the venue’s rich history to the 37,000-flower living mural, Sky shares how the team behind Fiddler’s has made art part of everyday life—and how that approach can transform any event.They talk about why Red Rocks isn’t always the best guest experience, how Marjorie Park (once a detention pond) became a premier outdoor venue, and what event planners can learn from creating immersive, unexpected experiences—from fire pits and LED sponsor walls to champagne dresses and caviar on kettle chips. If you’ve ever been stuck in the ballroom rut, this episode is your permission slip to think differently. Because when you design for experience first, everything else—including fundraising—gets better. Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre: https://fiddlersgreenamp.comMuseum of Outdoor Arts: https://moaonline.org

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! This week, the Handbid Home Team digs into a topic every auction planner needs to hear: why some items soar—and others totally flop. Spoiler alert: it all comes down to knowing your crowd. Whether you're tossing in zoo passes, weekend getaways, or a family photo session, what works for one event could bomb at another.The team brings stories from real events, data-backed strategies, and a few laughs along the way (yes, someone really did donate a vasectomy). It's an honest, behind-the-scenes look at how to make auction items matter—and how to avoid wasting space on the silent auction table.In This Episode:Why “know your audience” is the golden rule for auction successCommon item flops: overpriced services, stale gift cards, and awkward experiencesHow bundling, presentation, and pricing can transform boring into bidding warCreative ways to use gift cards, wine pulls, and rafflesThe danger of overpricing based on inflated FMV (and how to fix it)How data reports like Handbid’s category performance can guide smarter decisionsBonus: what to fix first when an event just isn’t workingWhy It Matters: Putting the wrong items in your auction not only wastes space—it costs you revenue. When you know your audience and use data to guide your strategy, you can craft an auction that truly excites your bidders and delivers real fundraising results.Key Takeaways:“One-size-fits-all” items rarely work—tailor to your audience every yearPresentation and pricing are just as important as the item itselfGift cards and small items can shine when packaged creativelyUse data from past events to make smart, strategic choicesEvent flow, check-in process, and volunteer roles matter more than you thinkFinal Thought: Great auctions aren’t about throwing everything into the mix—they’re about curating the right mix for the people in the room. If you know your crowd, you can turn even simple items into major wins. And if you're not sure where to start? The Handbid Home Team is here to help.Elevate Your Event Podcast | Powered by HandbidWelcome to Elevate Your Event, the ultimate podcast for fundraisers, event planners, and nonprofit professionals looking to take their events to the next level! Hosted by the team at Handbid, this podcast dives into fundraising strategies, auction best practices, donor engagement tips, event technology trends, and nonprofit success stories.🎧 What You’ll Learn:✅ How to run a successful online, live, or hybrid auction✅ Best practices for mobile bidding and fundraising software✅ Creative donor engagement strategies✅ Event marketing tips to maximize attendance and donations✅ Expert insights from top fundraisers and nonprofit leadersWhether you're organizing a gala, charity auction, school fundraiser, corporate event, or virtual fundraising campaign, we’ve got you covered with actionable advice to increase participation, boost donations, and create unforgettable experiences.🌐 Learn More & Get Started with Handbid:🚀 Visit our website: https://www.handbid.com📖 Read our most popular blog post: "50+ Top Silent Auction Items & Ideas for Your Next Event" https://www.handbid.com/blog/silent-auction-items📖 More event fundraising tips: https://www.handbid.com/blog🔔 Subscribe & Stay UpdatedDon’t miss out on the latest fundraising tips, event tech trends, and nonprofit success stories! Subscribe now and join a community of event fundraising professionals working to make an impact.📲 Follow Handbid for More Event Fundraising Insights:🔹 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handbid🔹 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/handbid🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/handbid🔹 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Handbid#Handbid #ElevateYourEvent #FundraisingPodcast #EventFundraising #SilentAuctions #NonprofitFundraising #CharityAuctions #MobileBidding #AuctionSoftware #FundraisingTips #EventPlanning #DonorEngagement #FundraisingEvents #CharityEventPlanning #FundraisingSuccess #GalaAuctions #fundraisingideas 

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event!This week, Jeff Porter sits down with Shilpa Alva, founder and executive director of Search for Water. What started as a party-loving 20-something’s social gatherings grew into a global nonprofit tackling water access, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health in Haiti, Uganda, and Indonesia. Shilpa’s journey shows how a single event can spark an international mission—and why events remain central to her organization’s impact today.In This Episode:How Shilpa’s very first event at the Weisman Art Museum launched Search for WaterThe creative, scrappy, and manual ways early events came together—think hand-swiped credit cards and DIY brandingWhy ticket sales aren’t your biggest revenue driver (and where to focus instead)The unique two-part event model Shilpa uses today: VIP dinner + high-energy afterpartySmart uses of technology—and what nonprofits really need next from their platformsThe annual silent auction debate: Keep it or kill it? Shilpa’s surprising perspectiveWhy It Matters:Shilpa’s story is proof that you don’t need a huge budget or fancy tools to make a lasting impact. With creativity, persistence, and the right people, even small events can drive big change—locally and globally.Key Takeaways:Think beyond ticket sales—other revenue streams can outpace themYour first event doesn’t need to be perfect to be powerfulTech can save time and improve guest experiences when paired with solid processesCreative event formats can keep supporters coming back year after yearFinal Thought:From swiping cards by hand to running high-tech, high-impact events, Shilpa Alva proves that the heart of fundraising is about connection, creativity, and vision. Your next event could be the start of something bigger than you ever imagined.

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event!We’ve hit triple digits—and we're celebrating big. In this 100th episode, Jeff and Mark reflect on the journey so far, revisit fan-favorite moments, and take you behind the scenes with hilarious stories, heartfelt lessons, and a brutally funny AI-generated roast of Handbid's own Jeff Porter.In This Episode:A nostalgic look back at standout episodes and special guestsAn AI-written roast that pulls no punches (boots, bourbon, and all)What Chick-fil-A, Disney, and concert venues can teach us about arrival experiencesReal event mishaps—from inebriated honorees to impromptu Heimlich maneuversThe evolution of check-in, mobile bidding, and creating frictionless guest experiencesWhy It Matters:100 episodes isn't just a number—it's a testament to the creativity, resilience, and humor required to thrive in the fundraising world. Whether you're planning your first gala or your 50th, the stories and insights in this episode are a reminder that the event must go on—and it can be awesome.Key Takeaways:Arrival experiences start in the parking lot—plan accordinglyYou can’t prevent every hiccup, but you can be ready to adaptTech empowers your team—especially when paired with good processesThe best stories (and solutions) often come from the most chaotic momentsFinal Thought:Here’s to 100 episodes of elevating fundraising, solving real-world challenges, and laughing through the madness. Thanks for being on this journey with us—we can’t wait to bring you the next 100.

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this behind-the-scenes episode, Jeff sits down with David Farmer, Area Director for FCA South Denver, to explore how intentional event design, bold decisions, and donor-focused experiences have transformed FCA’s fundraising efforts.In This Episode:The early days of FCA South Denver events—from small golf tournaments to first attempts at galasWhy cultivating donor relationships takes more than one big event a yearThe power of “micro-events” like Conversations with Champions to engage the communityHow upgrading venues, raising ticket prices, and rethinking sponsorship levels can elevate both the guest experience and your fundraisingLessons learned from event hiccups (and why nobody noticed the auctioneer missed the paddle raise!)Why It Matters:Fundraising events aren’t just about raising money—they’re about building relationships, telling your story, and creating an experience people want to support. David’s journey shows how taking risks, elevating the experience, and leaning on the right team can turn average events into impactful ones that drive long-term support.Key Takeaways:Elevating your event often means elevating your venue, pricing, and expectationsDon’t overlook the small “relationship-building” events that lead to bigger donationsStrategic sponsorship tiers can unlock more high-level supportYou can’t do it alone—surround yourself with experts, volunteers, and a planGreat donor experiences come from attention to detail—and a willingness to learn from mistakesFinal Thought:If your events feel stuck in neutral, maybe it’s time to elevate your strategy. Tune in for real-world lessons on risk, relationships, and building events that grow both your donor base and your mission.

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this episode, Jeff and Elise sit down with Dan Donovan from Stratoscope to unpack the often-overlooked world of event security—and why getting it right is critical for both guest experience and event success.In This Episode:How decades of experience at the Olympics, Formula One Las Vegas, Dreamforce, and other major events shaped Dan’s approach to securityWhy event security isn’t just about safety—it’s about protecting your brand and reputationPractical, budget-friendly steps smaller events can take to improve securityThe critical role of access control, perimeter management, and vetting vendorsWhy communication tools like radios (yes, even at small events!) are a game-changer for safetyWhy It Matters:Security can feel like an afterthought—until something goes wrong. Whether it’s a large-scale festival or a small charity gala, every event has vulnerabilities. This episode explores how thoughtful planning, the right staffing, and simple precautions can reduce risks while keeping the guest experience smooth and welcoming.Key Takeaways:Even small events should consider security as part of the guest experience, not separate from itVisual deterrents like law enforcement presence can dramatically increase peace of mindAccess control, credentials, and staff awareness are your first line of defenseRadios beat text threads every time when quick, coordinated action is neededYou can elevate security and keep the event fun—it's all about balanceFinal Thought:No event is too small to be a target. From lost auction items to major safety risks, proactive security planning protects your guests, your reputation, and your peace of mind. Tune in for real-world advice from someone who’s seen it all—and learn how to make safety a seamless part of your event.Connect with Donovan:https://stratoscope.comhttps://stratosk9.com/https://ingressotek.com/

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this episode, Jeff, Elise, and the Handbid team come together for an insider conversation on what’s coming next for Handbid and the most requested features from clients and the team alike.In This Episode:The top feature requests from Handbid clients—what’s coming and why it mattersHow custom questions for for-sale items can simplify merchandise salesThe demand for scheduled broadcast messages and how they can improve event communicationWhy purchase add-ons for tickets are a game-changer for upsells and guest convenienceSneak peeks into new features: multi-guest lists, DocuSign integration, Stripe Identity, and moreHow Handbid’s redesign and tech upgrades aim to simplify the event experienceBehind-the-scenes chatter on real client use cases and feedbackWhy It Matters:Great technology doesn’t just show up—it evolves through real-world feedback and constant improvement. This episode gives you a transparent look at how the Handbid team listens to users, prioritizes new features, and keeps innovating to make fundraising events smoother, faster, and more successful.Key Takeaways:Scheduled broadcasts, ticket add-ons, and multi-guest lists are all high-priority features in developmentDocuSign and Stripe Identity will help streamline bidder verification and agreement processesHandbid’s upcoming interface updates are focused on usability and guest experienceAI-powered image resizing, customizable emails, and white-label options are enhancing both branding and efficiencyThe team’s philosophy: Solve real problems with smart, intentional feature updatesFinal Thought:Whether you're running a school auction, charity gala, or massive corporate event, the tools you use should work with you—not against you. Stay tuned to hear how Handbid is building the next wave of features to help elevate your event.

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this insightful episode, Jeff is joined once again by Mitch Stein from Chariot to break down the often misunderstood world of donor-advised funds (DAFs). From debunking myths to sharing real-life success stories, they dive into how DAFs can revolutionize giving at your fundraising events—and how the Handbid and Chariot integration makes it easier than ever.In This Episode:What a donor-advised fund (DAF) is and why it’s not just for the ultra-wealthyHow DAF donations compare to credit card donations—spoiler: they’re often 8–10x larger!Why Chariot’s integration with Handbid is a game-changer for simplifying DAF givingCommon DAF donation restrictions (and how to stay compliant at events)Tips for identifying and encouraging DAF donors to support your causeA look ahead to DAF Day on October 9 and what it means for nonprofitsWhy It Matters: DAFs aren’t just a tax tool for major donors—they’re a growing giving vehicle for everyday philanthropists. By making it easier for donors to give through their DAFs, nonprofits can unlock more generous gifts, reduce donor friction, and stay compliant without the paperwork headache.Key Takeaways:DAF users often give to more charities—on average, 12 per year vs. 2 for typical donorsDonors give more when using “set-aside” funds from their DAFs, much like spending a gift cardA smooth, integrated DAF experience can eliminate donor confusion and maximize giftsMaking your EIN easily accessible and talking about DAFs at events can drive engagementFinal Thought: Donor-advised funds don’t have to be intimidating or complex. With the right tools and a little education, you can make DAF giving easy, accessible, and highly impactful for your organization. Tune in to find out how—and why now is the perfect time to get on board.

Welcome back to Elevate Your Event! In this forward-looking episode, Jeff, Elise, and Shania take a deep dive into how mobile app technology can transform the arrival experience at fundraising events.In This Episode:The evolution of mobile and native app technology since the early iPhone days—and why it matters for eventsThe difference between “lean forward” and “lean back” user engagementWhy native apps provide a significantly better guest experience than mobile web solutionsHow features like facial recognition, app clips, and smart check-in systems can streamline entry and reduce linesA look at how technology can help guests pre-register, check in, and even donate with just a gestureWhy It Matters:For many event planners, the arrival experience sets the tone for the entire evening. If guests are stuck in line or fumbling with outdated systems, it can take the energy out of your event before it even begins. This episode explores how to remove friction, improve personalization, and use technology in ways that feel seamless and thoughtful—not invasive.Key Takeaways:Mobile apps give you a level of control and interaction that mobile web simply can’t matchPre-event engagement through apps can eliminate check-in bottlenecksEmerging tools like app clips and facial recognition create fast, secure entry pointsEven donations can be modernized with creative app features—no paddles requiredFinal Thought:If you’re still relying on basic check-in tools and printed guest lists, it might be time to elevate your arrival experience. Tune in for a fresh take on what’s possible when tech works with you, not around you.

Starting a nonprofit can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff with a parachute you’ve never packed. In this episode, Jeff, Inga, and Mark sit down with Matt Stockman to unpack his six-part framework—the Nonprofit Launch Plan—that helps emerging nonprofits go from overwhelmed to organized. What You’ll Learn:Why most nonprofit founders are driven by mission, but held back by a lack of structure.The six critical areas every nonprofit must address to thrive: development, leadership, operations, finances, marketing, and programs.How to craft a mission statement that’s clear, confident, and actually useful (not just pretty words on paper).Fundraising 101: The five elements of a successful ask—from the problem to the call to action.Why board composition matters and how to choose members who push your org forward (not just nod along).The truth about events: how great guest experiences drive revenue—and why not all tech is created equal.Matt’s Big Takeaway: The difference between a nonprofit that survives and one that thrives often lies in having a simple, flexible framework and the courage to stick to it.Connect with Matt:Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.comWebsite: nonprofitlaunchplan.comHosts: Jeff Porter, Inga Weiss, and MarkPresented by: Handbid Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube and never miss an episode!

In this fun and candid episode, Mark, Elise, and Jeff recap Handbid’s 19th annual Derby Fundraiser, highlighting what went well, what could be improved, and how they continue to elevate their signature event each year. From logistical tweaks to food upgrades, the team walks us through the behind-the-scenes moments that made this year’s Derby Day a hit.Episode Highlights:New Betting Software: Handbid rewrote its betting software from scratch, creating a smoother, faster experience for guests.Elevated Food and Drinks: Coast to Coast catering returned with delicious bites, while Rocker Spirits and Breckenridge Brewery kept the drinks flowing.Event Layout Improvements: New seating arrangements and reconfigured fire pits improved flow and comfort for attendees.Tech Hiccups: A moment of panic struck when NBC’s livestream of the Kentucky Derby briefly went down – hear how the team handled it.Community Feedback: Discover what guests loved and what they suggested for next year, including more shade, better table placement, and more diverse auction items.Musical Performances: Mitch Rossell, a Garth Brooks collaborator, headlined the event, impressing attendees with top-tier country tunes. Tune in now to hear how Handbid continues to refine and elevate their events, ensuring every year is better than the last!

In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we’re joined by Kimberly Tittle, Executive Director of 15|40 Productions, who brings over two decades of expertise in crafting unforgettable events. Kimberly dives deep into what it really takes to elevate guest experiences—from arrival to farewell. She shares how a thoughtful blend of technology and human connection can make or break an event, and why guest comfort should always be center stage.We also explore the unique dynamics of balancing celebrity privacy with charitable engagement, adding interactive elements that leave lasting impressions, and the behind-the-scenes magic of coordinating teams and volunteers. Kimberly highlights the irreplaceable value of professional event planners in pulling all the pieces together and delivering events that guests won’t stop talking about.Top Takeaways:Events should align with organizational goals and guest expectations.A seamless guest experience builds community, comfort, and awareness.The arrival moment sets the tone—clear signage and direction matter.Tech enhances events when it’s intuitive and non-intrusive.Balance is everything: celebrity privacy vs. engagement, innovation vs. comfort.Know your audience’s tech tolerance before going high-tech.Experiential and interactive elements boost engagement and fundraising.Strong teams, clear communication, and organized volunteers make the magic happen.Pro event planners keep logistics smooth so the mission stays front and center.In-house skills can stretch budgets and simplify execution.

This episode flips the script. No guests. No panels. Just Jeff and Mark diving deep into the history and evolution of one of Denver’s most unique fundraising events: Derby Day at Fiddler’s Green. What started as a backyard party nearly two decades ago is now a full-blown, high-end experience with fire pits, LED screens, custom cocktails, and serious fundraising power.Jeff shares how the event has grown, what they’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), and why creating a memorable experience is the key to fundraising success. From ditching stuffy venues to selling $5K fire pit tables and booking Nashville acts—this is a masterclass in bold moves and thoughtful planning.What You’ll Learn:How to elevate your event year after year—without losing your audienceThe art of risk: investing in experience to drive revenueCreative sponsorship strategies and how cold calls could pay offWhy guest experience matters more than spreadsheetsThe surprising ROI of outdoor furniture and fire pitsLinks & Mentions:Event info: DerbyDenver.com Whether you’re planning your first gala or your 20th, this episode is packed with practical ideas, honest insights, and a few laughs along the way.

In this episode, our guest Graeme Watt introduces the Strategic Inevitability Framework—a powerful tool designed to help nonprofits bring clarity, focus, and follow-through to their strategic plans. Graeme shares why it’s crucial to set clear goals, build accountability, and focus on fewer, high-impact actions to drive meaningful progress.He also dives into the importance of celebrating wins, co-creating plans with your team, and visualizing success with exercises like the “Champagne Moment.” From adapting during execution to breaking free from outdated practices, Graeme offers practical insights and tools to help organizations not just plan, but thrive.🎧 Tune in to learn: • Clarify goals with a focused, strategic framework. • Prioritize fewer, high-impact activities for better results. • Build accountability through regular check-ins and clear execution plans. • Use a 12-month roadmap to guide action and maintain momentum. • Embrace essentialism and flexibility to stay on track. • Co-create plans to boost team commitment and ownership. • Celebrate wins to sustain energy and progress. • Align event planning with strategic goals. • Strong execution often matters more than novel ideas.🔗 Links & Resources:Instagram: @anthemcreativeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthemcreative/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wattgraeme/If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow fundraiser! 🚀💡 Connect with Handbid:📍 Website📍 Instagram📍 LinkedInListen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we sit down with Scott Dishong, CEO of Make-A-Wish Colorado, to explore how his team brings hope and joy to children with critical illnesses. From unique wishes (like a robotic dragon!) to the massive impact of student-led fundraising, Scott shares insights into what makes Make-A-Wish so special.We also dive into fundraising strategies, including how Make-A-Wish Colorado transformed their traditional gala into Whiskey, Wine & Wishes—a high-energy, concert-style event that engages new donors while keeping longtime supporters excited. Plus, Scott shares leadership lessons and the key to building strong teams and relationships in the nonprofit world.🎧 Tune in to learn:✔️ How Make-A-Wish Colorado grants 380+ wishes per year✔️ The impact of student-led fundraising & Wish Week✔️ Why events are still a powerful donor engagement tool✔️ How to turn a gala into an unforgettable experience✔️ Scott’s top advice for nonprofit leaders🔗 Links & Resources:Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdishong/ Learn more about Make-A-Wish Colorado: www.colorado.wish.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WishColorado/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wishcolorado/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wishcolorado/If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow fundraiser! 🚀💡 Connect with Handbid:📍 Website📍 Instagram📍 LinkedInListen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Episode Summary:Your event was a hit—but how do you keep donors engaged after the night is over? In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we dive into the must-know strategies for donor retention.From capturing donor data at check-in to creating meaningful touchpoints throughout the year, we’re breaking down practical ways to keep supporters connected. Plus, we discuss why making small improvements to your event each year keeps donors excited (without alienating your long-time supporters).Key Takeaways:Get Their Info – Capturing donor data at check-in is essential for future engagement and follow-ups.Keep in Touch – Donors should hear from you more than once a year—updates and appreciation go a long way.Mix It Up – Small event tweaks keep things fresh and prevent donor fatigue.Use Surveys Wisely – Gather feedback during the event to make impactful changes.Don’t Be Afraid of Change – Evolving your event strategy helps attract and retain the next generation of donors.🎧 Tune in now for expert insights on keeping your donors engaged long after your event ends!💡 Connect with Handbid:📍 Website📍 Instagram📍 LinkedInListen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Episode Summary:Welcome back to the Elevate Your Event podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into the power of text messaging for fundraising with special guest James Martin from RallyCorp. If you’ve ever struggled with low email open rates or declining donor engagement, you’ll want to hear how SMS can transform the way you connect with supporters.James shares his journey from building a content management company to founding RallyCorp, a platform dedicated to human-centered texting for nonprofits. He explains why text messaging outperforms email, how to navigate compliance challenges, and why a 15% click rate should be your new benchmark for engagement.James also shares some great insights on where text messaging is headed, including new technologies like RCS (Rich Communication Services), personalized tracking links, and two-way engagement strategies.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Text Messaging is a Game-Changer – With 90% read rates, it’s one of the most effective communication tools available.The 15% Click Rate Guarantee – RallyCorp backs its results by guaranteeing engagement.Shortcodes vs. 10-Digit Numbers – Understanding the differences and when each is the right fit for your organization.Text-to-Give: Then vs. Now – How modern SMS fundraising works compared to the old carrier billing model.Real-Time Fundraising Impact – How nonprofits are using video messaging and SMS to bring donors into the story at the moment it’s happening.Compliance & Deliverability – Why many CRMs fail at SMS and how to ensure your messages actually get delivered.Data, Analytics, & AI – How advanced tracking can help optimize your messaging and fundraising strategy.Key Takeaway:If you’re still relying only on email or direct mail, it’s time to rethink your donor engagement strategy. Text messaging is here to stay, and when used correctly, it can dramatically increase event attendance, donor participation, and overall fundraising success.Resources & Links:Learn more about RallyCorp: rallycorp.comGet in touch with James directly: Text “JAMES” to 24365Looking to integrate SMS with Handbid? Stay tuned—more details coming soon.Listen, rate, and subscribe!

In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we welcome Tracy Judge and Nikki Gonzales from Soundings to explore the evolving world of event staffing and management. They discuss how skilled freelance talent can enhance fundraising events, the importance of aligning the right people with the right roles, and how personality impacts guest experiences. The conversation also highlights the use of CliftonStrengths for strategic staffing and the hidden costs of under-qualified personnel.Nikki and Tracy also dive into the changing expectations of Gen Z attendees, the growing role of technology in events, and the need for inclusivity and adaptability. With insights on forming strong partnerships and rethinking talent strategies, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for event professionals looking to stay ahead of industry trends.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Freelance talent is essential for modern event success.Skill matching & experience reduce risks and enhance guest experiences.CliftonStrengths helps align talent with the right roles.Strategic staffing boosts sponsorships, donations, and overall event success.Inclusivity & adaptability are key to engaging Gen Z and all attendees.Technology should serve all generations for a seamless experience.Hidden costs of poor staffing can be significant.Strong partnerships & community building elevate event outcomes.Innovative talent strategies drive long-term success.Emotional biases can impact staffing decisions—focus on the right fit.Resources and Links:https://soundingsconnect.com/ Connect with Tracy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyjudge/ Connect with Nikki: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkigonzales/CliftonStrengths AssessmentListen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Episode Summary:Step into the future of events with Jeff, Mark, and Elise as they break down the latest innovations from AXIS Drive and Stripe Tour. From personalized LED screens that greet guests by name to face-recognition check-ins and walkout payment systems, we’re exploring how next-gen technology is transforming guest experiences. How can fundraising events borrow from major sports venues and concert arenas? And what’s up with “dead hand” security? Tune in for a fun, slightly creepy, but totally fascinating look at the tech shaping events of tomorrow.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How AI-driven LED screens can personalize the guest experienceFacial recognition check-ins—creepy or cool?Amazon’s “walkout” tech and the future of seamless paymentsHow the Intuit Arena is redefining the fan experience (and what nonprofits can learn from it)The latest innovations from Stripe that make payments easier (and why your donors will love them)Why rethinking event registration and guest engagement is a game-changerListen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Episode Summary:Ready to turn those nerve-wracking speeches into mic-dropping moments? In this episode, public speaking coach and storytelling expert Johanna Walker shares all her best tips on public speaking and storytelling to help you rock the stage at your next event. From crafting emotional, audience-grabbing stories to channeling stage fright into superstar energy, Johanna’s advice will have you captivating crowds and leaving a lasting impression.Whether you’re running a fundraiser or leading a big presentation, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to help you connect, inspire, and (most importantly) keep your audience awake.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Stories that stick: Ditch the boring stats and use real, human stories to make your message unforgettable.Work the room: Learn how to read your audience and tailor your talk to hit them right in the feels.Make nerves your BFF: Turn that shaky voice and sweaty palms into your secret superpower.Practice with purpose: Why “winging it” is overrated and how intentional prep makes all the difference.Less is more: Keep it short, sweet, and impactful so your audience remembers the good stuff.Pro Tips from Johanna:Authenticity is everything: Be real, be relatable, and make your story clear. Johanna’s ARC framework (Authenticity, Relatability, Clarity) is your new best friend.Nail your storytelling structure: Start strong, take your audience on a journey, and end with a bang.Own the stage: Plant your feet, channel your energy, and let your confidence shine.Why Listen?Because nobody wants to sit through another boring speech. This episode is your crash course in how to grab your audience’s attention, keep them engaged, and inspire them to take action.Connect with Johanna Walker:https://johannawalker.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannawalkerspeaking/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johannawalkerspeaking/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohannaWalkerSpeaking/