The Conference Collective - Event Management Podcast

Author: Professional Conference Organisers Association

Subscribed: 4Played: 49

Description

Welcome to the 'The Conference Collective' Podcast, celebrating the best in innovation and leadership from those who are creating a positive change in the business events industry. A podcast brought to you by the Professional Conference Organisers Association Inc. and hosted by Libbie Ray from Connected Event Group. This podcast provides listeners with behind the scenes access to some of the key innovators in our industry as they share their honest and raw insights. It highlights how collaboration, innovation and resilience are at the core of the events industry and the reasons we have managed to survive through the most challenging time our industry has faced. Get ready to learn more about the brave new world of the business events industry.

This season of 'The Conference Collective' Podcast was primarily recorded live at the PCOA24 conference, in Connected Event Group’s portable recording studio. We will be back recording new episodes at PCOA25, so please reach out to The PCOA if you are interested in starring as a guest for next season!

About The PCOA:
The PCO Association Inc. is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand.

The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector.

Website: www.pco.asn.au

About Connected Event Group:
At Connected Event Group we offer innovation and creativity in audio-visual services and event production, employing technical solutions that help people and businesses communicate with each other. We’ve been translating event technologies for our clients for over two decades specialising in AV equipment and service, technical event production management and broadcasting, across a range of industries. We’re experts in making the impossible possible.

Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com

About Libbie Ray:
Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group, a full-service technical production company that utilises creative AV solutions to produce innovative and meaningful event experiences. With 20 years of experience across marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a well-rounded approach to the new world of events.

Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, Libbie is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of AI to transform the industry and is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with her sector. She also serves as a Global Learning Ambassador for the Entrepreneurs' Organisation, further amplifying her impact on the industry.

Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/

47 Episodes

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Balancing Innovation and Humanity in an AI World with Julian Moore

2026-09-0832:18

Julian Moore explores the intersection of technology, leadership, and human connection in this episode. He shares insights on how leaders can embrace digital innovation while keeping people at the centre of their strategies. From event design to organisational culture, Julian provides practical examples of how technology can amplify human potential rather than replace it. Listeners will also gain guidance on how to lead teams through rapid change. Julian highlights the importance of fostering...

Scaling Smarter: Matt Elliott’s Guide for Leaders

2026-08-1836:54

In this episode, Matt Elliott shares his insights on navigating the challenges of modern business and leadership. He explores how organisations can embrace change, innovate proactively, and build teams that are resilient and adaptive in an ever-evolving landscape. Whether you’re leading a company, a project, or an event, Matt’s practical advice will help you anticipate obstacles and respond strategically. Matt also dives into how these principles apply specifically to the business events indu...

What High-Performing Event Marketing Teams Do Differently with Kelly Harvey

2026-07-2835:51

What really sets high-performing event marketing teams apart? It’s not bigger budgets or larger teams. Kelly Harvey believes success comes from understanding your audience, clearly positioning your event, making smart use of data and maintaining a relentless focus on reducing friction throughout the attendee journey. In this episode, Libbie Ray sits down with Kelly Harvey from EventsAir to explore the evolving world of event marketing. They discuss audience research, attendee behaviour, pers...

Why Every Event Needs a Crisis Plan with Mark Schloesser

2026-07-0833:46

For many event professionals, crisis management is something that sits on a checklist until it's needed. But as recent years have shown, disruption can come from anywhere and at any time. In this episode, Libbie Ray sits down with venue development and operations expert Mark Schloesser to explore how event organisers, venues and suppliers can build stronger, more resilient businesses. From lessons learned during COVID to the importance of empowering teams, improving communication and ...

How Economics Shapes Innovation and Events with Shamubeel Eaqub

2026-06-1623:12

Shamubeel Eaqub, economist and author, unpacks the economic trends shaping our world and what they mean for leaders and organisations. He shares how businesses can anticipate change, plan strategically, and stay resilient in the face of uncertainty. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how macroeconomic shifts affect their industries and the events sector specifically. Shamubeel also discusses actionable strategies for leaders to make better data-driven decisions. From identifying o...

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The Conference Collective - Event Management Podcast