Making Events Matter

Curious about how AI is transforming the world of event production and facilitation? In Episode 14 of "Making Events Matter," Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive into their hands-on experiences experimenting with AI-driven workflows, from managing large-scale webinars to building bespoke event apps without needing to write code. They discuss real-world examples—like streamlining live Q&A sessions for over 400 participants, the evolution of anonymous contributions, and how tools like Gemini are revolutionising reporting and audience interaction. Whether you’re a seasoned event professional or just exploring tech-enabled solutions, this episode is packed with practical insights and forward-thinking discussions about the future of events. Tune in for inspiring stories, candid reflections, and actionable ideas on making your events truly matter!If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results Realise Group Swapcard XLeap

Kick off the new year with "Making Events Matter", where Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive into the top trends shaping the events industry in 2026. Whether you're an event producer, facilitator, or just passionate about bringing people together, this episode is packed with insights on the rise of micro events, the transformative power of AI, and the importance of building trust in a tech-driven world. Plus, they tackle the challenges of geopolitical instability, cost pressures, and sustainability—offering practical advice and fresh ideas for adapting your event strategies. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and make your events matter more than ever!If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results Realise Group Swapcard XLeap

Ready for a deep dive into the real-world challenges and triumphs of event planning? Tune in to the latest episode of "Making Events Matter," where Dom Honey and Steve Bather tackle your most pressing questions about bidding for government contracts, the everyday (and not-so-everyday) headaches of event production, and how AI is reshaping the way we design, run, and follow up on events. From behind-the-scenes logistical dilemmas to stories of unusual requests—like exhibitors transporting illegally traded wildlife—this candid Q&A covers it all. Whether you're a seasoned event professional or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical insights, honest reflections, and plenty of expertise to help you make your events truly matter. Don't miss it!If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results Realise Group Swapcard XLeap

Dive into the latest episode of "Making Events Matter," where Dom Honey and Steve Bather pull back the curtain on their current projects and share real-world examples of how technology and creativity are transforming the event industry. From multi-agency safeguarding webinars that make a real difference in child protection, to innovative uses of AI—from delivering bite-sized learning to digitally resurrecting founders—this episode explores the practical challenges, breakthroughs, and ethical questions at the cutting edge of events. Whether you're an event professional, tech enthusiast, or just curious about the future of gatherings, tune in for an engaging, insightful conversation that shows why making events matter is more relevant than ever.If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results Realise Group Swapcard XLeap

Looking to take your events to the next level? Don’t miss Episode 10 of "Making Events Matter"—Interaction Deep Dive! Join Dom Honey and Steve Bather as they unlock the secrets to driving true participation, engagement, and networking, not just during your event but before and after as well. From the latest AI-powered platforms and smart networking tools to creative session formats and powerful legacy-building tactics, this episode is packed with practical insights drawn straight from years of hands-on experience. Hear how you can boost attendee value, keep the momentum going, and create lasting impact for your community. Tune in and discover how to make every event matter—before, during, and long after the lights go down.If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results Realise Group Swapcard XLeap

Ready to make your next event truly matter? In Episode 9 of "Making Events Matter," seasoned event experts Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive deep into the crucial planning phase—the make-or-break moment for any successful event. Drawing from years of hands-on experience, they share practical strategies for setting clear objectives, managing risks, and using digital tools to enhance engagement before, during, and after the event. Whether you’re an event planner, a company organizing a conference, or simply curious about what makes standout gatherings tick, this episode is packed with insights on turning your vision into a lasting legacy. Don’t miss their candid discussion, pro tips, and real-world solutions for planning events that leave an impact!If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results Realise Group Swapcard XLeap

Are you wondering what really sets professional event production apart? In this episode of "Making Events Matter," Dom Honey and Steve Bather break down the unique value expert facilitators and producers bring to the table—especially when budgets are tight and ROI matters more than ever. From meticulous planning and innovative digital platforms like XLeap and Swapcard, to ensuring every attendee is heard and building a lasting legacy post-event, Dom and Steve share their insider secrets on transforming gatherings into impactful experiences. Whether you’re planning in-person, hybrid, or virtual events, tune in to discover how pros elevate outcomes, foster ongoing engagement, and make every event truly matter.If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event ResultsRealise Group Swapcard XLeap

Ready to transform your next event from just another gathering into something truly memorable? In this episode of "Making Events Matter," Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive deep into the art of crafting meaningful attendee—better yet, participant—experiences. Hear firsthand how they go beyond the basics, using thoughtfully designed event structures, digital platforms, and innovative engagement tactics to boost interaction, inclusivity, and collaboration before, during, and long after the event. From tackling room layouts and temperature, to leveraging apps and the XLEAP platform for dynamic networking and Q&A, Dom and Steve share practical strategies you can adopt right away. Whether you’re an event planner, facilitator, or participant, this episode is packed with insights on building legacy, fostering community, and getting the most out of every event. Don’t miss it!If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event Results https://eventresults.net/Realise Group https://www.realisegroup.com/Swapcard https://www.swapcard.com/XLeap https://www.xleap.net/

In this episode of Making Events Matter, Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive deep into the essential art of onboarding speakers to ensure every event hits its mark. They bring decades of experience to the table, sharing their proven strategies for preparing keynote speakers, facilitators, and panelists to deliver their best—whether the event is in-person, virtual, or hybrid. You’ll hear actionable tips on briefing speakers, fostering collaboration, leveraging technology for engagement, and ensuring inclusivity for all participants. Plus, they explore how digital platforms and AI tools can extend the life and impact of your event long after the closing remarks. If you want to learn how to elevate your next event by making your speakers shine, this episode is a must-listen!If there's a topic you would like us to discuss in a future episode please let us know in the comments.Links to sites mentioned in this episode:⁠Event Results⁠⁠Realise Group⁠ ⁠Swapcard⁠ ⁠XLeap⁠

Looking to supercharge the impact of your next event? In Episode 5 of Making Events Matter, Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive deep into the art of building vibrant, ongoing communities that extend the magic of your event far beyond the closing remarks. Discover proven strategies for turning engaged attendees into active community members, leveraging digital platforms to keep conversations alive, and maximising your event’s ROI with lasting networking and collaboration. Hear inspiring real-world examples, get practical tips on content sharing, and explore how to ensure your events drive real, measurable legacy—all with expert insights from two leaders who know how to make events truly matter. Don’t miss this episode if you want your event’s momentum to last all year long!Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event ResultsRealise Group Swapcard XLeap

Ready to make your next event truly matter? Tune in to Episode 4 of Making Events Matter, where seasoned event producer Dom Honey and expert facilitator Steve Bather break down the world of hybrid events. They demystify hybrid formats, sharing practical tips on designing events that seamlessly unite in-person and online participants for an equally engaging experience. Discover how cutting-edge tools like Swapcard and XLeap are revolutionising networking, collaboration, and inclusion—without complicating the attendee journey. Whether you're planning your first hybrid event or looking to enhance your approach, this episode is brimming with real-world insights on creating flexible, cost-effective, and truly inclusive gatherings. Don’t miss out—listen now and see how hybrid can work for you!Links to sites mentioned in this episode:Event ResultsRealise GroupSwapcardXLeap

Are you ready to discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of events? In the latest episode of Making Events Matter, Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive into the real impact AI is having right now on planning, delivering, and following up on events. From AI-powered networking and smart attendee recommendations to instant video analysis and creating digital humans, this conversation is packed with practical insights and fresh ideas for event professionals. Whether you want to boost engagement, streamline content delivery, or keep your event momentum alive long after it ends, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for actionable tips, intriguing examples, and a glimpse into the future of events with AI at the core.Explore this episode using Castmagic AILinks to platforms mentioned in this episodeSwapcardXLeap Castmagic NotebookLM Gemini

Get ready to transform the way you think about virtual events! In Episode 2 of Making Events Matter, Dom Honey and Steve Bather dive deep into the big questions surrounding virtual events—how to make them more engaging, impactful, and truly worthwhile for both organisers and participants. With insightful discussion on overcoming budget and travel constraints, practical tips on using platforms like Swapcard and XLeap, and their proven strategies for maintaining momentum and building thriving post-event communities, this episode is packed with expertise that will help you elevate your next virtual experience. Whether you're an event producer, facilitator, or just passionate about creating meaningful connections online, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Listen now and find out how to make your virtual events matter!Watch on Youtube

In this first episode of Making Events Matter, hosts Steve Bather and Dom Honey discuss their extensive experience in event design and production. They explore the evolution of events, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of creating lasting value and community engagement. The conversation delves into the complexities of hybrid events, the role of technology in enhancing participant experience, and the core principles of co-designing events with clients to ensure measurable outcomes.Watch on Youtube