Solution Seekers

In the latest episode of the “Solution Seekers Podcast" hosted by Paige Buck, Pierce Larick, the visionary founder and CEO of New Revolution Media, shares deep insights into his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the balance between creative innovation and the nuances of business leadership. Pierce shares his transition from a solo photographer to leading a video production team, emphasizing the importance of embracing diverse team dynamics and maintaining a positive work culture. He introduces a unique "no a**hole policy" to safeguard team morale and productivity and discusses educating clients on the creative process to better align project outcomes with client expectations. This strategic approach to client interaction, combined with a commitment to fostering strong industry relationships, plays a crucial role in his company's success.Larick also delves into the less-discussed aspects of entrepreneurship, such as the mental health challenges that come with running a business. He highlights the importance of support networks, particularly through groups of fellow entrepreneurs who understand the unique pressures of the industry. A case study of a successful campaign for Lululemon illustrates how granting creative freedom can lead to content that not only satisfies but exceeds client expectations, setting new benchmarks in storytelling. This podcast episode offers a wealth of insights for entrepreneurs on balancing strategic decision-making with creative passion and interpersonal relationships to thrive in business. Larick's journey underscores the importance of combining strategic planning with a passion for creativity and sincere interpersonal relationships. This balanced approach not only helps navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship but also contributes to a rewarding and successful business venture.

In today's episode, Paige is excited to sit down with the multi-talented Marianne Jackson, Senior Executive Producer and Director of Strategic Partnerships at Kennedy Events. Marianne dives into her colorful world, revealing her journey from producer to business development maestro, highlighting the evolving landscape of team celebrations in a post-COVID era. Expect to hear about her commitment to inclusive event planning and the way she faces challenges head-on with grace and strategy. Beyond event logistics, we'll explore the importance of core values, how they shape client relationships, and how Kennedy Events stands out by infusing delight into their work. It's a rich conversation filled with insight, laughter, and invaluable tips from one of the industry's best.

In this episode of the “Solution Seekers” podcast, Paige Buck dives into the intricacies of event planning with Meg Fasy, founder of fazeFWD, and Sarah Bseiso, Senior Manager of Global Events at Informatica. They tackle the balance between structure and innovation in managing large-scale events and delve into the significance of building strong relationships within the industry. Both Meg and Sarah share their insights on the pivotal role of autonomy in event teams and the art of saying no to unfeasible ideas while remaining open to new trends that are reshaping the event planning landscape. The theme of maintaining a vendor relationship as an extension of the event team, as well as how to navigate the challenges when a vendor isn't the right fit, sets the tone for a candid conversation about the finer nuances of corporate event planning. But in a field where the expectations are as dynamic as the technologies and audience, how do event professionals strike the right balance between innovation and discipline?Meg and Sarah, with their wealth of experience, provide valuable perspectives on the challenges of trying to be everything to everyone versus the need to set boundaries and selectively embrace new ideas and opportunities to avoid team burnout and turnover. Their expertise shines as they advocate for the importance of understanding client needs, proving vendor competence, and treating contractors with respect. How does one navigate the twin demands of innovation and structure to achieve growth and avoid pitfalls? Listen to the seasoned insights of our guests as they recount personal experiences and lessons learned from managing flagship events and steering companies toward strategic branding and successful collaborations.

In this episode of “Solution Seekers,” host Paige Buck sits down with guest Carlin Putman, owner and founder of Page-One Meetings and Events, LLC, to navigate the intricate world of event planning and the road to establishing a successful business. Carlin, with an extensive background of over two decades in the industry, shares how she kick-started her career straight out of college where she honed her event-organizing skills in various roles, before bravely navigating through the AIG financial crisis, which prompted her to lay the groundwork for her own enterprise.Throughout the podcast, Carlin recounts her experiences with vibrancy and a deep understanding of the event landscape. Listeners will be entertained by her tales of near-disastrous last-minute challenges, and her candid recollections of the stresses and successes that come with leading an events team.

Neil Wu Becker is an award-winning marketing and communications executive who has led global teams at a variety of IT, security and enterprise software firms – from Dow Jones Component and bellwether stock companies to small-caps and pre-IPO unicorns. He is an adviser for startups and has been a CMO for various companies. He is also co-founder NextBound, which provides interim CMO and proxy CMO services, as well as brand marketing, PR, and corporate communication services combined.Maeve Naughton is the president and owner of MKN Consulting Group, a company that provides partner marketing consultations for tech companies. She has 25 years of experience creating event sponsorship programs, driving millions in revenue for large customer events and regional conferences. As an experienced marketing professional, Maeve focuses on lead generation to support sales and channel revenue goals by creating customer reference programs.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:Understanding the varied impact of events on analyst relations, media, and lead generationHow expanding skill sets beyond traditional logistics to include positioning, messaging, and content creation will be increasingly valuableWhy event practitioners should proactively educate company executives about event strategies

As we begin 2024, we take a look back at some highlights from 2023. Paige sits down with some of the best in the business to discuss their insights into the event industry and how we can continue to move forward with excitement and innovation in this ever-changing landscape. We hope you enjoy, and look we forward to Season 3 starting in two weeks!

Nadia Rahali is the General Manager of the Loudermilk Center in Atlanta, GA. She is a leader committed to empowering organizations and leaders in creating meaningful and purposeful convenings. She believes that hospitality is a virtue and it's a privilege to be given the opportunity to be of service to others

In the latest episode of the “Solution Seekers” podcast, Paige had the pleasure of speaking with Earla Jones, Director of Conference Services and Operations at the American Library Association. In a world where event planning is rapidly evolving, understanding the intricacies of creating memorable and inclusive experiences is more crucial than ever. This episode delves into this dynamic field. Jones, with over two decades of experience, brings a unique perspective on the importance of experiential design and accessibility in event planning. But how does one seamlessly integrate these elements to elevate the standard of events?Earla Jones brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table. Her journey from a psychology major to a renowned event planner showcases the diverse paths leading to success in this industry. She emphasizes the significance of experiential design in events, focusing on creating engagements that resonate with all five senses to leave a lasting impact. Jones also highlights the vital role of accessibility in event planning, discussing how inclusive practices can transform an event's appeal and reach. Her approach is not just about meeting standards but about innovatively enhancing the participant experience. Through her expertise, Earla Jones illustrates that successful event planning is as much about understanding people as it is about logistics and creativity.

In today's episode, Paige Buck had the pleasure of chatting with Johnice Veals, the Associate Director of Events and Employee Engagement at Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Johnice takes her into the world of pharmaceutical events, sharing her insights and experiences in creating meaningful and impactful experiences for employees globally. From navigating time zones and cultural differences to fostering diversity and inclusion, Johnice discusses the challenges and successes in her role. They also delve into her previous work at Life is Good and how she brings elements of fun and music into the pharmaceutical industry.  As a seasoned professional in the events industry, Johnice Veals brings a wealth of expertise and firsthand knowledge to the table. Throughout the interview, she candidly shares her insights on gauging employee satisfaction, managing global events, and fostering diversity and inclusion. Johnice's valuable advice centers around the importance of authentic connections, utilizing data-driven insights, and aligning events with company strategy. Her experience in bridging the gap between different industries, from apparel to pharmaceuticals, showcases her innovative and adaptive approach. Johnice imparts her wisdom on successfully orchestrating impactful events and creating a sense of community within organizations.

In the ever-evolving world of marketing, it is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and adapt your strategies to meet the needs of a rapidly changing market. But how can you effectively navigate these evolving landscapes?In this episode of The Solution Seekers Podcast, Paige Buck engages in an insightful conversation with Megan Hull, the Senior Director of Events at Technology Marketing Toolkit (TMT), a renowned marketing consulting firm in the IT services industry. Megan brings her expertise and years of experience as she discusses the challenges faced by the events industry and how TMT has adapted to the changing market. With over 30 events each year, ranging from small workshops to large-scale conferences, Megan and her team have developed effective strategies for ensuring the success of each event.As an experienced events professional, Megan brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion highlighting the importance of constantly enhancing and improving events. In response to a downturn in in-person event attendance, Megan shares how her team pivoted to hosting virtual events and focused on maintaining high engagement levels. This experience allowed her to embrace the importance of community and our natural deep craving for connection, especially in times of isolation. She also focuses on how her team uses their skill sets and understands the role and capacity each person can play to create the best experience for the client and their attendees. Megan’s depth of knowledge and passion for the events world will delight and inspire you to new ways of thinking within your team. 

In this enlightening episode of The “Solutions Seekers” podcast, host Paige Buck, is joined by Michelle Allbon, Fractional CRO and Managing Director of Grounded Advisory. During her interview, Michelle dives deep into the dynamic world of sales, marketing, and operations. Drawing from her diverse career path and wealth of experience, Michelle sheds light on the complexities and challenges of navigating these intersecting domains.Michelle's valuable insights highlight the need for a harmonious relationship between sales and marketing. She emphasizes the importance of establishing clear swim lanes and a shared understanding of goals and responsibilities. By aligning these functions and leveraging modern practices like revenue operations (Rev ops), companies can optimize lead generation, conversion, and customer tracking. Michelle also challenges the traditional view of sales as a linear process, advocating for a holistic approach that embraces the power of data-driven strategies while fostering genuine customer relationships.Through her expertise as a fractional Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), Michelle provides a fresh perspective on how operational change and uncertainty can be approached strategically. She stresses the significance of distinguishing between tactical and strategic work, empowering leaders to focus on the broader context and make informed decisions based on concise, bottom-line data.This episode paves the way for professionals across sales, marketing, and operations to explore innovative ways of driving revenue, fostering collaboration, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of business. Michelle Allbon's insights serve as a guiding light for those seeking to excel in the intertwined realms of sales, marketing, and operations.

In the latest episode of the “Solutions Seekers” podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Joel Costa, a seasoned hospitality professional, advocate for sustainable practices and aromatherapy, and the Director of Sales and Marketing at 1 Hotels. Joel shares his extensive experience working in the industry and his current role with 1 Hotels, a brand focused on minimizing their environmental footprint.This insightful episode also delves into Joel's expertise in event planning and marketing, where he highlights the importance of engaging with digital customers, staying on top of trends, and fostering creative collaborations. Joel's passion for sustainability, aromatherapy, and creating meaningful experiences shines through in this conversation, painting a picture of how the hospitality industry can transform and embrace a more eco-conscious and relaxing approach. Tune in to this episode to discover how Joel Costa is paving the way for a greener future in the hospitality world.

In this episode of the “Solution Seekers” podcast, host Paige Buck speaks with Joshua Steinberger, a seasoned professional in the realm of strategy and communications. With an impressive portfolio highlighting his work with organizations such as Tipping Point and the Presidio Trust, Joshua shares his experiences and provides valuable insights into the world of communications, events, and driving impact.Throughout the episode, Joshua emphasizes the importance of building authentic relationships and connecting with people on a meaningful level. From his work with Tipping Point, where he witnessed the organization's nimble response to crises like the North Bay fires and the COVID-19 pandemic, to his involvement in the transformation of the Presidio into a public space, Joshua's expertise shines through as he shares valuable tips on storytelling, spokesperson selection, and event planning. His ability to simplify complex topics and connect with others quickly is a testament to his mastery of the field. Overall, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for professionals looking to make a significant impact within their organizations and communities.

In this episode of the “Solutions Seekers” podcast, host Paige Buck sits down with guest Justin Dorfman, Co-Founder and CEO of AssetMule and an experienced sales professional with a passion for enterprise sales. Throughout the episode, Dorfman shares valuable insights on managing the sales process, emphasizing the importance of listening to customers, understanding their needs, and presenting tailored solutions. He highlights key moments in the sales process, such as the proposal stage, where both parties come together as partners to make the case internally. Dorfman also delves into his journey of starting a company, highlighting the significance of customer discovery and building a community before launching a product. With a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by sales and product marketers, Dorfman offers practical strategies and ideas for creating interactive sales materials that engage prospects and drive successful enterprise sales - cue AssetMule, the SaaS that helps companies create high-quality personalized sales assets in minutes. 

In this episode of the “Solutions Seekers” podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Gene Hwang, a seasoned event photographer and co-founder of Orange Photography,  the San Francisco Bay Area's premier corporate photography agency. With decades of experience in the industry, Gene shared valuable insights and anecdotes about the art and science of event photography, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that make events truly unforgettable. Gene shares that good lighting not only enhances the overall ambiance but also allows photographers to capture captivating images that truly reflect the essence of the event. Sound quality, another pivotal element, ensures the success of an event, significantly impacting the audience's engagement and overall satisfaction.So whether you're an event professional looking for tips on how to make every moment picture-perfect or simply curious about the art of event photography, this episode is a must-listen!  

In this episode of the “Solutions Seekers” podcast, host Paige Buck sits down with the remarkable Heather Mason, CEO and Founder of Caspian Agency, for an insightful and inspiring conversation on the importance of strategy in the event management industry. Renowned in the industry for her strategic approach to event management, Heather shares her experiences, expertise, and vision for the future of the events world.Gain invaluable insights into financial planning, creativity with money, and the evolving role of logistics and strategy, and discover how Heather's experience as a social entrepreneur and her dedication to empowering women in the industry is ushering in a new era of event management. This enlightening episode will not only leave you inspired but also equipped with practical advice to enhance your own event-planning endeavors.

Research consistently shows that diverse teams lead to increased profitability and better overall business performance. The speaker emphasizes the need for incorporating diversity and inclusion in recruitment, promotion, performance evaluation, and compensation reviews to create a sustainable, inclusive future. So why is DEI the first thing cut from budgets during economic hardships? In this episode of The Kennedy Events Podcast, Sophia Piliouras joins host Paige Buck to dive deep into the evolution of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the corporate world. This thought-provoking discussion highlights the importance of genuine expertise in DEI initiatives and the challenges faced in achieving true diversity and inclusion in today's society. Piliouras, an experienced professional with a background in law and DEI, shares her insights, experiences, and passion for creating positive change in the corporate landscape.Listen to the full episode of The Kennedy Events Podcast featuring Sophia Piliouras to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in driving diversity, equity, and inclusion in the corporate world.

In the world of business, revenue growth is the ultimate goal. It's what drives companies forward, fuels innovation, and creates opportunities for expansion. But achieving sustainable revenue growth requires more than just hard work and dedication. It requires alignment within teams, a shared understanding of metrics, and a strategic focus on key goals. In a recent episode of The Kennedy Events Podcast, titled "Aligning Teams Toward Shared Metrics for Revenue Growth," host Paige Buck sits down with guest David Aronica, Head of Growth Marketing at Yellowbrick Data, to discuss the importance of team alignment in driving revenue growth.One of the key takeaways from the episode is the impact of misalignment within teams. Aronica highlights the common scenario where different teams, such as marketing and sales, focus on different metrics or drivers for making money. For instance, the marketing team might prioritize generating marketing qualified leads (MQLs), while the sales team focuses on generating opportunities. This divergence in focus can lead to friction and inefficiency within the organization, ultimately hindering revenue growth. To address this, Aronica emphasizes the role of leadership in setting clear goals and metrics for each stage of the customer journey. When teams have a shared understanding of what constitutes a qualified opportunity or lead, they can work together more effectively toward revenue growth. 

In today's competitive business landscape, creating unforgettable experiences has become crucial for companies across industries. Enter experience design, a methodology that combines creativity, psychology, and strategic thinking to craft memorable events. Whether it's a product launch, a corporate conference, or a music festival, the principles of experience design can be applied to any industry, elevating engagements and leaving a lasting impression on attendees.In this episode of “The Kennedy Events Podcast,” host Paige Buck is joined by Tony Allen, current President of RevRoad and previous Global Head of Event Services at Zoom. Tony shares his wealth of knowledge on experience design and how its methodology can be applied to any industry to create a memorable event. At its core, experience design methodology focuses on orchestrating all aspects of an event to elicit specific emotions and engage the senses of the participants. Tune in to learn how organizations can differentiate themselves from competitors, build stronger connections with their target audience, and ultimately, create events that leave a lasting impact in the minds and hearts of attendees.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) play a crucial role in event planning, serving as a guiding principle for creating inclusive and meaningful experiences. Event planners recognize that diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and identities bring forth unique ideas, foster innovation, and enhance attendee engagement. So how does one embrace DE&I in the event planning process to prioritize equal representation and ensure that all participants feel welcomed, respected, and valued?In this episode of "The Kennedy Events Podcast," host Paige Buck is joined by Anna Nicholson, an experienced events manager on the Global Events and Experiential team for B2B Marketing at Yahoo. Anna shares the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the events industry and how Yahoo has started to track metrics on DE&I, sustainability, and accessibility at events. DE&I in event planning goes beyond surface-level diversity and actively addresses systemic barriers, promoting equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups. By incorporating DE&I principles into every aspect of event planning, from vendor selection to program design, event organizers can create enriching experiences that celebrate diversity, foster inclusivity, and drive positive change.