Shows
The Events InsightThe Power of Purpose in Events and Community - With PJ EllisSend us a textIn this season opener, Jack and Karen sit down with the ever-inspiring PJ Ellis, a proud Brummie, seasoned charity campaigner, and passionate community advocate.PJ shares the story behind launching the Harry Moseley Charity Ball, co-founding LoveBrum, and raising nearly £1 million for causes close to his heart. From tackling homelessness to mentoring start-ups, PJ’s journey proves how purpose-led projects can leave a lasting legacy.Now a BBC Radio WM presenter and founder of the men's mental health initiative Mommy's Boy, PJ opens up about the personal experiences driving his...
2025-08-201h 00
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 14Send us a textAs Season 14 of The Events Insight Podcast comes to a close, we’re wrapping things up in style, as we always do! Joining Jack and Karen for this special episode are two fantastic industry professionals and avid podcast listeners, Charlotte Dowdell and Rajiah Rodien, who bring their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the conversation.Charlotte, with over a decade of experience in hospitality and events, is known for her meticulous planning, positive attitude, and ability to turn events into magical experiences. Rajiah, an emerging talent in the industry, blends academic expertise wi...
2025-03-1956 min
The Events InsightAre you squeezing enough out of your 'Happy Sponge'? - With Mark DeCarloSend us a text Get ready for a fun and fascinating episode of The Events Insight Podcast with Jack and Karen! This week, we’re joined by three-time Emmy Award winner, comedian, TV host, and best-selling author Mark DeCarlo. You might know him from Windy City LIVE, World’s Funniest Videos, or as the voice of Hugh Neutron in Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius. Mark has done it all—hosting, acting, writing, producing, and even launching the world’s first live-to-air animated talk show. Join us as we dive into his incredible journey, from Hollywood to the corporate stage, an...
2025-03-141h 10
The Events InsightFrom House Porter to Company Director - With Martin StephensSend us a textThis week on The Events Insight Podcast, Karen and Jack sit down with Martin Stephens, Director of Off Limits Ltd, to explore his inspiring career journey—from a YTS trainee stacking shelves to a leader in the events industry.With over 30 years of experience, Martin has worn many hats, from hotel management trainee to Sales Director, before becoming a shareholder and Director at Off Limits, where he’s spent the last two decades delivering unforgettable experiences. His portfolio is as diverse as it is impressive, featuring multi-activity days, The Original BBC It's...
2025-03-0539 min
The Events InsightSustainable Events Made Simple: Easy Wins - With Lisa SweetingSend us a textIn this episode of The Events Insight, Jack and Karen sit down with Lisa Sweeting, an event professional with 18 years of experience in corporate, private, and charity events. Lisa is the founder of Green Sense Events, a company dedicated to minimising environmental impact while ensuring events are socially inclusive and accessible.Since launching Green Sense Events in 2020, Lisa has worked with a diverse range of clients, including High 5 Events, One Two Agency (formerly Glasgows), Decordia, COP26 and the UK Government, and Oxygen House. Her work spans from developing sustainability...
2025-02-2655 min
The Events InsightCuriosity will get you everywhere - With Adam RobertsSend us a textAdam has been working within the Events Industry for over twenty years, firstly as a Lighting technician and Rigger before moving into the Safety Role after a non-work related accident. He specialises in large scale one-off events where he can use his role as a consultant to facilitate all aspects of the event. His career has allowed him to work across many sectors including touring, exhibitions, sport, theatre and corporate events, right across across the world.You will hear how Adam is keen to promote health and we...
2025-02-191h 03
The Events InsightRising to the challenge - With Charlie GardenerSend us a textKaren and Jack wlecome another different voice onto the podcast this week as they welcome Charlie Gardener to the show. This episode was actually done in person out on location, so you will hear the difference in the interaction and audio. After a decade of experience in legal, financial and sales roles, Charlie, alongside her engineer husband Lloyd, took the first step in business ownership in 2013. They recognised an increasing opportunity within the UK construction, utilities and civils sectors and, after turning their first business into an employee-owned trust, we...
2025-02-1251 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 13Send us a textWelcome to the Wrap Session of Season 13! It's been a truly fantastic season as Jack and Karen have explored the globe with six incredible events industry professionals. From prop making to overlay, jet skiing to LEGO building, we’ve covered it all!For today's wrap-up, we’ve got a few changes to the lineup. Jack is currently out of the country, handling client and exhibition builds in Las Vegas, so the wonderful Jenny Davies has stepped in to join Karen. And while one of our listener guests couldn't make it, we’re thr...
2024-09-2543 min
The Events InsightBehind the Scenes: Mastering Event Overlay - With Tom AlldreadSend us a textIn this week’s episode Jack and Karen are thrilled to be joined by Tom Alldread, an industry expert with over 12 years of experience at GL Events. During his time at GL, Tom has played a pivotal role in delivering some of the UK's largest and most prestigious events, including the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, UCI World Cycling Championships, and the London 2012 Olympics.Tom's expertise in leading complex projects, building high-performing teams, and fostering collaboration has been key to his success. His ability to create strong partnerships with internal stakeholders, key partners, an...
2024-09-1957 min
The Events InsightFinding your own path in the events industry - With Stephen Morton-PriorSend us a textThis week Karen and Jack were joined by Stephen, the visionary Founder of Clearwater Events. With a hands-on approach to event planning, client development, and legacy building, Stephen is committed to delivering excellence through diversity, equality, and innovation. His mission? To create unforgettable experiences with impeccable customer service, brilliant creativity, and cutting-edge technology.Stephen's journey has been impressive. As Senior Account Director at MCI Events, he was instrumental in nurturing client relationships and developing impactful event programs tailored to client needs.Previously, as Head of Events for North America...
2024-09-111h 03
The Events InsightAlways do your research - With Makenzie StokelSend us a textMakenzie Stokel is the Co-Founder of EVA, an innovative platform that automates the process of booking entertainment for events. Makenzie has been a young leader in the events and entertainment industries since starting EVA while attending Belmont University. With degrees in Music Business and Entrepreneurship, she is passionate about creating paid performance opportunities for up and coming artists. She has been recognized as a leader in the Austin community on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and at the Austin Under 40 Awards. She currently serves on the boards of ILE...
2024-09-0447 min
The Events InsightThe immersive experience of Events - With Liz LathanSend us a textLiz is co-founder of The Community Factory and an attendee engagement expert who specializes in Spontaneous Think Tanks for B2B organizations.The Community Factory is committed to transforming the event industry by fostering innovative ways to engage and connect. With a rich history in delivering engaging events and networking and connection opportunities, The Community Factory continues to be at the forefront of the event engagement revolution.After a decades-long career in corporate managing global event teams, she now focuses on helping companies create community...
2024-08-1445 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 12Send us a textAnd it’s a wrap folks!Can you believe it, Season 12 is over?And what a cross section of events industry professional Jack and Karen have spoken to, from a Health & Safety expert working out in Dubai to a successful festival organised based in the UK, with the odd event sporting professional thrown in the mix!The season really has been a rollercoaster of emotions!For the Wrap Session, we ask our lovely listeners to get in touch and join us for a chat about th...
2024-02-2154 min
The Events InsightBringing the Irish charm to the sometimes, challenging world of Health & Safety! - With Eddie DohertySend us a textScrap all your preconceptions about Health & Safety professionals. Eddie is nothing like you imagine them to be!Eddie was in the construction industry for 20+ years, but when his knees gave up (his words), he decided that he needed a change. And that change was Health & Safety. With a long career in the construction industry, Eddie was used to dealing with all kinds of people and working on active and challenging sites… all skills needed for Health & Safety.Since entering the world of Health & Safety. Eddie hasn’t stopped working. He has b...
2024-02-1448 min
The Events InsightCareers, Events, and Cupcakes - With Natasha ButtSend us a textNatasha Butt boasts an extensive career spanning nearly two decades in the dynamic field of recruitment, with a specialised focus on the events industry for the past 8 years. Throughout her professional journey, she has collaborated with exhibition/conference organisers, suppliers, and venues on a global scale, contributing valuable insights to the ever-evolving landscape. As the Co-Founder of Expocast and, most recently, the Founder of ConfexPro, Natasha has been a trailblazer in the realm of UK Inhouse Talent Acquisition Consultancy and Senior Executive Search. Her innovative approach and commitment to excellence have se...
2024-02-0756 min
The Events InsightEvents are not about the individual, they are for the greater good - With Waleed JahangirSend us a textThere is never a dull moment when you are chatting to Waleed!He has many funny and fascinating stories to tell… most of them involving tight deadlines and impossible sets… with underlying great event ideas!!With over 20 years of experience in developing and engaging communities via a range of projects and multi-platforms, Waleed has become a specialist in connecting brands and organizations with emerging consumer markets internationally.The past five years have seen Waleed playing a particular focus on the Halal Economy, where he has created some of t...
2024-01-3145 min
The Events InsightEvents and Sports are in my blood! - With Andy MitchelmoreSend us a textAndy started out working in the events industry back in the 90's as a student making some holiday money by pushing flight cases and positioning the occasional uplighter. In his own words, Andy has been fortunate to combine a love of sport and a passion for events for almost 25 years. He has held various operational positions during ten years at The Great Run Company, He was Senior Sport Manager at the inaugural European Championships in Glasgow in 2018 before deciding to go freelance in 2019. Andy has worked on some amazing pro...
2024-01-2441 min
The Events InsightIt's all about the music! - With Gill TeeSend us a textGill started her music career at Capital Radio, working her way through the ranks becoming the Head of Entertainment at the station. She was charged with producing the first ever 100,000 capacity Party in the Park at Hyde Park.Gill recognised there was a gap in the market for high quality, well made and aesthetically pleasing fencing and barriers. She co-founded entertee hire, an award winning fencing and barrier company supplying to the event industry.Within the events industry, Gill is best known for the Black Deer Festival. Gill is the...
2024-01-1750 min
The Events InsightIt all started out in a quarry in Buxton! With Darren BoothSend us a textDarren has been working in the Events Industry for more than 18 years now, the majority of which he has been in major UK venues – we are talking about 3 arenas across the country, and even some time spent on London 2012. Darren now finds himself at Wembley Stadium working for the FA, a venue and a role that any sporting mad events professional would love to work at!!Darren (in his own words) has been lucky to work across a wide variety of events, from a good number of concerts, sporting eve...
2024-01-1051 min
The Events InsightIt’s an EVENT BUYERS LIVE SPECIAL!Send us a textHonesty is always best when it comes to chatting on the podcast, we like to find out about the person behind the LinkedIn profile. Jack and Karen chat to Neil Fagg, Managing Director of StandOut Magazine and Event Director for Event Buyers Live. Neil has a great story to tell… like most people, he fell into the events industry!In his own words, he is “a father of 2, F1 nut and always seeking a new adventure!”Neil started out as a roofer, then move...
2023-10-0451 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 11Send us a textThe Wrap Session – Season 11Well, that’s it folks! We have reached the end of another fantastic season.Jack and Karen have chatted to some truly interesting and inspiring guests from across the events industry. From wedding sales to event platform development and everything in between.For the Wrap Session, we ask our lovely listeners to get in touch, and join us for a chat about the season. Lively, surprising and entertaining… 3 words to describe our listeners who joined us!! First of all, w...
2023-07-1947 min
The Events InsightMaintaining a healthy lifestyle in events - With Michael WeibrechtSend us a textStand building and design is a precise craft. With a degree in mathematics and a legacy of 70 years in the events industry, Michael was destined to follow in his fathers’ footsteps and work as a stand builder, craftsman and now company MD.From an early age, Michael was working in the exhibition industry; weekends and holidays were spent learning how to design and install stands.Michael is a believer in learning on the job. You need to know how to do, before you manage.He is also a bi...
2023-07-1236 min
The Events InsightTechnology gives you superpower - With Alon AlroySend us a textWhen you talk to Alon, you realise how important technology is for all our events. Whether it be a virtual event, a registration system or a full event App, technology is now pivitol to our modern day event needs.Alon, based in sunny New York City, is the Co-Founder and CMO of Bizzabo, the Event Experience Operating System that powers the immersive in-person, virtual and hybrid event experiences of world-leading brands.In 2012, Alon (alongside his business partners) designed the Bizzabo event App, then came the software in 2015, then the...
2023-07-0548 min
The Events InsightThere is energy, then there is Jason! - With Jason ThomsonSend us a textFor more than two decades and a thousand projects, speechwriter, storyteller and pitch specialist Jason Thomson has been hired to passionately win over audiences and sell ideas through content, writing and storytelling.Jason is process driven, determined and wants to win every pitch, client, situation he is faced with. Getting to know the client and the audience are key to his success.The world’s smartest organizations turn to Jason’s creative leadership and original mind as a way to create better presentations, pitches, events, blogs, PR, infographics, Podcasts, websi...
2023-06-281h 08
The Events InsightMarvin talks Tech - With Marvin McTawSend us a textUp until the pandemic, very few people had heard of a virtual meeting, let alone attended one. The pandemic showed us that it is possible to run events in a new way and engage with a larger audience.Marvin talks about the importance of virtual and hybrid meetings and how Sched, an event management software platform, is helping event organizers and attendees with its innovative and efficient technology. The platform powers various virtual, hybrid, and in-person events, from large-scale conventions to school events and conferences. With a background in bus...
2023-06-2147 min
The Events InsightIt’s all glitz, glamour and weddings! - With Kelly MortimerSend us a textStrap yourself in for the fantastic bundle of energy and enthusiasm that is Kelly Mortimer!Kelly’s first step into the world of events was certainly not like most people… she took an Event Sales role in the Caribbean. In the words of Kelly, she had never worked in events before, and didn’t know what to expect…. But she was ready for the challenge!Kelly is all about the customer.What are the difference types of customers, and what do they want?She is all abou...
2023-06-1446 min
The Events InsightLights, Camera, Action - With Matt BradleySend us a textEvents should be an immersive experience for all!There was no better place for Jack and Karen to start Season 11 then with a journey to London to chat with Matt Bradley.Matt’s journey into the events industry is an interesting one.As a child he went to drama school and aspired to be on stage in the limelight (he is a trained ballet dancer), then, like most boys, he dreamt of being a professional footballer.This flair for entertaining can be seen in...
2023-06-0729 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 10Send us a textCan you believe it, we have reached the end of another season and now here comes the best bit! We get to review all the episodes with two of our fabulous listeners!Olivia Preston-Lee is completing her fourth and final year of an Events Management Degree at Leeds Beckett University. On her placement year, Olivia set up her first business, a travelling bar, ‘The Thirsty Mares’, alongside this, Olivia freelances within the events industry. Currently, she is researching the ethics of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Marketing and Events and plans to co...
2023-01-251h 03
The Events InsightPass me my soapbox! - with Robert KenwardSend us a textYou either love recruitment, or you don’t!Quite simply, Robert lives and breathes recruitment. He is the ‘Talent Officer’ for your business.The events industry is all about people and connections, everyone knows everyone! Roberts’ approach to recruitment is one of partnership. He gets to know the client and the candidate before any introductions are made. He believes on focussing on quality, only presenting the client with the best candidate (whether that is one or ten). Robert has spoken at plenty industry events and many of his volun...
2023-01-181h 02
The Events InsightWhat's your walk on music? With Daniel SkermerSend us a textWhen it comes to the utter fabulousness that is Dan Skermer, listening is definitely believing! Jack and Karen were mainly speechless when talking to Dan… his career to date has included everything from a yellow banana outfit (made of sponge) to the events entrepreneur that he is today.Dan has worked in hospitality and events all his life, and nothing makes him happier than bringing people together. His enthusiasm, drive and determination for the events industry is contagious. He is the proud founding member of PA Forum, a community group...
2023-01-1152 min
The Events InsightThe loveable Rottweiler - with Michelle BaldwinSend us a textHave you ever wondered what it is like to plan and run events at one of the UK’s largest Exhibition Centres? Join Jack and Karen as they chat to Michelle Baldwin, Head of Events at the NEC about what it is really like to work on some of the most famous events both nationally and internationally. For Michelle, it all started at the ICC (the International Convention Centre in Birmingham) working for the in-house catering team. Here, she got a flavour for customer service, the venue and mostimportantly th...
2022-12-2155 min
The Events InsightEvent Buyers Live 2022 Special - with Caroline CliftSend us a textJust when you thought the Podcast couldn’t give you anymore…A Bonus edition pops up!!In this episode, Jack & Karen talk to the fabulous Caroline Clift, Content Manager for Event Buyers Live and Editor of StandOut Magazine.Like most people, Caroline fell into the events industry. A chance meeting with Neil Fagg 18 years ago (this is a story you can hear all about in the podcast… let’s just say there was body paint involved) and she was hooked.Caroline is all about people; about fin...
2022-12-1448 min
The Events InsightOur Own Events Language! - with Rita ChandaranaSend us a textThe world of events is not only production, planning and people, it the detail and the making of lasting memories.Rita and her family at Eventologists support clients with the details, the innovative theming ideas which make an event pop and stand out from the crowd.https://eventologists.co.uk/Rita is passionate about bringing an event to life no matter what the size and shape available! There is a prop, a room dressing or idea to suit every type of event. Having a background...
2022-12-0752 min
The Events InsightThe strength of the pack is the Wolf! with Wolfgang MeursSend us a textEpisode two guest is Wolfgang Meurs. The is no better words to describe this episode than those from Rudyard Kipling 'The Strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack'. Wolfie, as he is known to those who know him, is from Cape Town, South Africa. He’s been living in London for 12 years. Always a big fan of sports, he enjoys most days outside either at a music festival or having a braai or as it’s called...
2022-11-3046 min
The Events InsightWho's coming to the Jungle with me? with Cat KevernSend us a textIf Cat doesn’t inspire you to say ‘YES’ to new opportunities in the events world, then no one will.She is positive and passionate about all the live events she has worked on, even her year at Disney World didn’t dampen her enthusiasm!She spent a year telling people to “stand behind the line” before the Parade started. She has worked on some truly fantastic events, in locations that most of us can only dream of going to. Just take a look at Envision Festival in Costa Ric...
2022-11-2349 min
The Events InsightRecapping season 9 with Chantelle DeLoughrey and Shivani PrimalaniSend us a textIt’s the end of Season 9 and we get to look back on it with two fabulous listeners from different areas of the globe and different backgrounds.ChantelleDeLoughrey has recently graduated from the Technological University of Shannon, Ireland, with a BA(Hons) in Business Studies with an Event management degree. She is currently working as an Events Officer at the Good GovernanceInstitute.Chantelle has completed two internships during her studies as a marketing assistant and an Event Project Manager, as well as carrying out a research project on the social impact of festivals on...
2022-06-1550 min
The Events InsightI’m only as good as my team - With Lindsay ImpettSend us a textOrganising events is challenging enough, but when you throw in global events, televised events and heated competition between participants… you are dealing with a completely different event monster!It takes a cool, calm head to deliver these kinds of events.Lindsay has managed and led international sporting events for more than 20 years across more than 25 sports. As the event director of the multi-award-winning Vitality Netball World Cup 2019, Lindsay held executive responsibility for Netball World Cup 2019 Ltd, which produced a profit in excess of £1 million, exceeded ticket sales targets by nea...
2022-06-0837 min
The Events InsightI have love for the Customer service, Customer experience, Customer journey - with Matt LambSend us a textWhat to say about Matt (or Matthew for his Mum) Lamb! He is everything that you expect an event professional to be; energetic, passionate, fun and just a little bit crazy! In their conversation with Matt, Karen & Jack covered everything from frustrations with zoom calls, to attending events around the world (and what you can learn from them). We hope that what you gain from listening to this podcast is that events are like people–all different, all with their own set of challenges and never the same! Matts ad...
2022-06-0143 min
The Events InsightDon't carry a thousand screws, because if someone took one, you'd never know,- with Craig HancoxSend us a text Our Events Industry is full of so many interesting and inspiring people, none more so than Craig Hancox. With a background as a chef, Craig is the perfect person to whet our appetites and talk about event catering. We have all attended or planned numerous events, and what is one thing we always remember and comment on… the FOOD! Without realising it, the food and drink we are offered at an event is just as important as the event itself. In Craig’s earlier c...
2022-05-2540 min
The Events InsightMucking out stables is good grounding for anyone! - with Peter WattsSend us a textPeter Watts joins Jack and Karen on this weeks episode of the podcast. He has an extensive background in the industry where he has enjoyed building, developing, progressing and growing sports venues, events and companies. You will hear how his focus remains on his customers, he’s an advocate for progressing staff engagement, with a desire to see sustainable practices delivered through great operational performance.His company Rockvolt are based in the UK and primarily focused on the sport and leisure sector. They have three decades of experience and have...
2022-05-1840 min
The Events InsightWhen life hands you lemons! - with Luke BuckleySend us a textThis week Karen and Jack are joined by Luke Buckley. He really does educate us on how tech can enhance the experience of any event. Luke is a proactive and hands-on marketing graduate with global sales and project management experience. His academic knowledge is supported by experience in high-pressure environments where creativity, communication and time management are vital. During the conversation you will hear how effective Luke is both working with his team and also within a sales environment. He has embraced both the high and low peri...
2022-05-1146 min
The Events InsightHow a reluctant 'Yes' shaped a career – with Jenn ArturaSend us a textThis week Karen and Jack are joined by Jenn Artura. An inspirational event professional based out in the Boston area across in the USA. An award winning, high-performing, strategic Experiential Marketing and Events executive. Jenn transforms business challenges into one of a kind, creative solutions and experiences that solve problems, elevate brands, generate revenue, define culture, and give back to the community. She loves the endless opportunities events provide to inspire and drive behaviour in others. In recognition of this, she is proud to have won vari...
2022-05-0446 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a Wrap Season 8Send us a textIt’s the end of Season 8 and we get to look back on it with two fabulous listeners from different areas of the globe and different backgrounds.Graeme is a pioneer in Christian Media with over 25 years of experience. With a particular skill in live television, he has produced and directed some of the largest Christian events over the past two decades. Having worked in the USA, UK, Europe, Africa, Israel, Hong Kong, India, South America and Australia, Graeme is highly regarded within the industry as a Christian media professional. Before fo...
2022-03-0944 min
The Events InsightVolunteering can give you such great education and experience - with Naomi HollasSend us a textThis week Karen and Jack are joined by Naomi Hollas. Naomi is a 2019 International Event Management Graduate from Glasgow Caledonian University, and the Founder of Event Grads, the community for event management students and graduates.Over the past 7 years, Naomi worked her way up the Scottish festival sector from the Hebridean Celtic Festival to TRNSMT. She recently left her full-time role to pursue her freelance career and support projects such as BVEP’s Event Apprenticeship scheme.In 2021, Naomi was featured on the BBC, named one of The Meeting's Show To...
2022-03-0240 min
The Events InsightWhat a journey that keeps on giving - with Dave YoungSend us a textWhen you think about the world of event production, what are the first words that spring to mind? Are they:PontinsRobot WarsSpontaneous and AmbitiousWe are guessing no!!In episode 5, Karen and Jack were lucky enough to catch up with Dave Young, Head of Production at ICC Belfast. His career to date is certainly very interesting and he has gained valuable experience and knowledge from some unique roles!In this episode, you will hopefully appreciate that event production is more than lamps, cables and...
2022-02-2339 min
The Events InsightLife has a way of showing you a direction you might not ever have explored - with Priya NarainSend us a textFood, glorious food, Hot sausage and mustard.While we're in the moodCold jelly and custardThat’s right, we’re talking food this week in Episode 4. We have the wonderful Priya Narain joining Jack and Karen to discuss all things catering. However its not just catering. Listen to how this event professional fits three jobs into her working week. It’s just that only one of them pay the bills, the other two are labours of love currently. As well as being Even...
2022-02-1640 min
The Events InsightWhen education and events collide to create opportunity- with Claire LeerSend us a textIn Episode 3, we turn our focus to the events industry and education.We are joined by Claire Leer, Senior Lecturer at the University of Northampton. Claire lectures in Events Management and Tourism, and as you will hear, is passionate about what she does.But Claire has not always been in further education.She started out studying Business Studies at University, and it was after her year-long work placement, that she discovered her love for the events industry. The placement year was delivering events and exhibitions for the pl...
2022-02-0939 min
The Events InsightThe relationships you create can last a lifetime - with Ross RobertsonSend us a textThis week on episode two, Karen and Jack are joined by Ross Robertson Managing Director (UK & Europe) – Arena Structures.With over 24 years of experience in the events industry and with the majority of that time working with some of the largest marquee / temporary structure companies in the UK, Ross has a wealth of experience in the events industry.His attention to detail and customer service is recognised across the sector and when you consider he has been involved in major events throughout the UK such as MTV Awards, Ryder Cu...
2022-02-0238 min
The Events InsightThis industry has no boarders - with Paul LovettSend us a textEpisode one is a treat for you all. We head out to Dubai to meet Paul Lovett.Paul’s success comes from 30 years of experience in building teams to deploy at events all over the world, resulting in millions of man-hours of work. His unsurpassed knowledge of equipment logistics ensures that the projects he works on are delivered on time, on budget and surpass the expectation of clients.Paul, along with his brother Craig, formed the company, Incognitus. Incognitus has done numerous Olympic Games, Music Festivals, Horse Races, Brand Ac...
2022-01-2638 min
The Events InsightSeason 8 - A New BeginningSend us a textWelcome to Season 8 of The Events Insight. We’ve kept with tradition and made a few changes the season, none more so than someone new behind the microphone!Yes, that’s right, Ellan has decided to take a different role moving forward and Jack introduces Karen Edwards on this short introduction to the new season. Hear about her background in events and how she plans to keep Jack in check during this new season.We also have some other new faces too including our new producer Callum, and during the...
2022-01-1906 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's A Wrap Season 7!Send us a textFor the finale of our 7th Season of The Events Insight podcast (yes, that’s right, seven wholeseasons already) we are joined by two more lovely listeners; Event Coordinator BiancaMureșan and Digital Event Professional Nyomi Rose. Bianca and Nyomi chat to Jack and Ellan about all things events and the unique individuals who make this wonderful industry so exciting, sharing their thoughts, ideas and opinions so candidly. Our wrap sessions are always extra special because we get to know our listeners better and hear what our they really thi...
2021-11-0357 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Nathan AngusSend us a textWe’re joined in this episode by Nathan Angus, MD of Wildfire Agency in Sheffield, UK. Nathan delivers a vast and varied array of experiences and activities for events; from props to hovercrafts and The Crystal Maze. At the ripe old age of 11, Nathan ventured into his field of expertise when he helped out a family friend who supplied squad bikes for kid’s parties (although, in reality, he mostly found himself feeding or plucking turkeys). When Nathan was 14, his dad bought the business and, a few years later, Nathan...
2021-10-2743 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Craig MathieSend us a textCombining sports and music - “an amalgamation of peoples passions” - is the role of this week’s longer-than-usual episode, where Managing Director of Bournemouth 7s Festival, Craig Mathie, chats to Jack and Ellan about working in events. Craig highlights all the great things about working in events (and there are many), and shares his enthusiasm and passion for our brilliant industry. “As far as day jobs go, I’ve got a pretty good one” Craig admits. But along with this he is on the Board of the National Outdoor Events...
2021-10-2059 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Stephan MurtaghSend us a textWith a huge passion for exhibitions, having walked thousands of miles in exhibition halls over thirty years, our guest this week shares his enthusiasm for our industry and explains why, for him, it’s all about meeting people face to face and engaging.Joining Jack and Ellan from the fair city of Dublin, Stephan Murtagh (a.k.a. The Exhibition Guy) takes us on his journey, starting with The Yellow Pages and radio advertising, to finding his true passion in exhibitions. On his first day working in the sector back in 1992, St...
2021-10-1344 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Andy DunlopSend us a textRevealing some of the magic about working in large-scale event production, Director of BH Events, Andy Dunlop, chats to Jack and Ellan about his work, his industry and how someone who wasn’t really into live music ended up making it his career.Over the last 15+ years, Andy has worked with some BIG names in the entertainment industry, such as Tom Jones and The Spice Girls, as well as with the BBC and Sky TV, and he’s travelled the world as a band promoter and tour manager. In true rock & roll...
2021-10-0646 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Naomi TuckerSend us a textWe travel across the pond again in our 2nd episode Season 7, all the way to Wisconsin, U.S.A, to meet the delightful founder of Planners on Purpose and Customer Success Director for Meetings and Incentives Worldwide, Naomi Tucker. With over 25 years industry experience and a passion for her peers’ emotional and mental health and wellbeing, Naomi coaches ambitious and driven planner out of their burnout and overwhelm - a common issue in this high-pressure environment of events. Starting our straight from college at the Hyatt Regency, Naom...
2021-09-2940 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Paul NewtonSend us a textWelcome to Season 7 of The Events Insight. We’ve made a few changes this season, including a new Producer and a few new features! We kick off with a fabulous guest; the highly entertaining magician, mind reader, hypnotist and thief, Paul Newton. As an entertainer, author and keynote speaker, Paul is storming the events circuit blowing minds using magic and mind reading to steal words from your head and hack your personal information. Pinpointing the origins of his interest as the moment he received a Paul...
2021-09-2251 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a Wrap Season 6Send us a textWe can’t quite believe it but we’re wrapping up our sixth season already! Our wrap sessions are always great fun because we get to chat with real listeners and find out exactly what they think of the podcast - and we get the chance to re-visit the last six episodes. In this season’s wrap we chat with the lovely independent meeting planner from Washington D.C., Anne Knox, and brand & marketing strategist from the North West of England, Aidan Campbell, also a former Quickfire sponsor. It was good to hear...
2021-08-1840 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Liz TaylorSend us a textOur final guest this season is well-known in the international events sector, a real superstar lady with a superstar name (drum roll please), the award-winning businesswoman, media commentator and marketing consultant, Liz Taylor. Starting out over thirty years ago with just £200, Liz seized an opportunity to create an event, completely by chance, and had that same “lightbulb moment” that many of our guests have talked about. Since then she has built a multi-million pound international corporate event and luxury party planning business. Exuding energy and confiden...
2021-08-1141 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Ben SévellecSend us a textWe’re all about demonstrating the vast range of roles that make up our diverse events industry, and this episode does just that as we chat with paramedic, Ben Sévellec. Whilst he may not have always known he’d end up in events, let alone run his own business doing so, Ben knew from being a small boy that he wanted to be a paramedic (he admits to us here that watching Casualty played a bit part in this). In 2018, after a number of years ach...
2021-08-0438 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Nena SalobirSend us a textJoining us this week from Sydney, Australia, Jack and Ellan chat with the Chief Creative Officer of Orbits, Nena Salobir. One of our most recent additions to the full-time events profession yet, Nena co-founded immersive online venue, Orbits, during the Covid pandemic and is now creating engaging online venues and experiences for a number of big, global names. A law school dropout who found her calling in visual marketing and creative design, Nena and her partner Lachlan Phillips were running a start up business creating automated video advertising when the...
2021-07-2839 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Ged GrahamSend us a textTaking a deeper look into the performance aspect of events, this week we are graced with the company of Dublin-born, musician, actor, writer and producer, Ged Graham. Ged has spent the last 40+ years both on stage and behind the scenes, touring large parts of the world as a musician and theatre performer and producer, and he’s happy to admit that “every day has been fantastic!” One of the few people that knew from a very early age (four years old, in fact) what he wanted out of life, he was a p...
2021-07-2139 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Lizzy WilliamsonSend us a textContinuing the international feel of the Season, we’re joined in this episode by the “excuse-buster from Down Under”, Lizzy Williamson, who joins us from Sydney, Australia. Hold onto your hats as the Event Energiser, Personal Trainer, TV star and author of “Two Minute Moves” shares her story and gets us (well, Jack) moving.As a child, Lizzy dreamt of becoming a professional dancer; dancing was her life and her ticket out of the small town in which she grew up. She achieved her dream and was loving her life when...
2021-07-1439 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Glen KopelchakSend us a textWe kick off Season Six with Glen Kopelchak, founder and MD of Hong Kong based consultancy, Illuminate International Sourcing. Calling himself an “old soul”, Glen’s career in events and exhibitions spans over 30 years and has taken him to all four corners of the earth. Currently working from Shanghai, he started his career in his home town in Toronto, Canada. Back then the events industry was known as a “phantom industry” because nobody really understood what it all meant. But with a strong desire to see the World, he left a secure corpo...
2021-07-0737 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a Wrap Season 5Send us a textFor our Season 5 Finale, Jack’s flying solo and is joined by two avid listeners and industry volunteers. Sasha Hollie Green is an events management student studying at Leeds Beckett University with the UK Centre for Events Management. She is currently deferred from her studies due to a cancelled placement year but has been juggling a part time job and various volunteer work. Joining Sasha is Jessica Waugh who is a final year events management student. She is also studying at the UK Centre for Events Management at the same University. Jes...
2021-06-1639 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Chloe RichardsonSend us a textJoining us from a performance and language background this episode is Chloe Richardson, Master of Ceremonies and Content at GDS, a corporate event management company based in the UK and USA. Performing and presenting on stage, coupled with her impressive language skills, paved the way to her current role as Master of Ceremonies and Content. Her energy and enthusiasm for our industry shines though in our last guest episode of the Season - and we think you will agree that she has the most original and useful superpower!Keep a track...
2021-06-0936 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Helen MoonSend us a textTalking to Jack and Ellan this week about mental health and wellbeing in the events industry, is founder and CEO of EventWell, Helen Moon. With 25 years under her belt as an event professional, she keeps us laughing with some of the funny stories fromm her career in the industry. Advocating “work hard, REST hard - the play will take care of itself”, she believes “if you choose to work in events, it’s the best career you’ll ever have” - and we could not agree more.Keep a track of all...
2021-06-0240 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Jeanne ProcopeSend us a textFrom growing up in the Caribbean to investment banking in New York City to impacting communities in Washington DC, Strategic conference director Jeanne Procope joins Jack and Ellan to talk about what it means to be a change agent. Unapologetically honest and a self-confessed “learner’, Jeanne demonstrates that by putting your heart and soul into something, you can leverage the power of events to make an impact.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.i...
2021-05-2638 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Paul WaltersSend us a textEvent Consultant, freelance event manager and University Lecturer Paul Walters chats to Jack and Ellan and shares insights how he found himself getting bitten by the events bug. Hear how he went from the design route to producing exhibitions, volunteering at Denmark’s ground-breaking Grøn Concert and inspiring event graduates to succeed in our rich and varied industry.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/twitter.com/The...
2021-05-1939 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Lloyd MajorSend us a textSeeing things from the both sides is Lloyd Major, who joins us this week to talk about his career with the Police and the National Counter Terrorism Unit, ending up in the events industry. After sitting on one side of the Safety Advisory Group table, he switched over to the other side when he left the Force and started planning public safety at events, eventually leading to co-founding tech start-up, Halo Solutions Ltd.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;www.theeventsinsight.com/...
2021-05-1240 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Robert LambSend us a textKicking off our 5th Season, we’re joined by Robert Lamb in from Dubai, where he is currently actively involved in delivering live events as GL Wicked Dubai’s Senior Commercial Manager. Hear about how he has had to adjust to how events work in Dubai, why it’s not always so different from his first career choice of nursing and how we surprised him in the quickfire round.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-ev...
2021-05-0540 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a Wrap Season 4Send us a textYet another Season draws to a close as Jack and Ellan are joined by another two listeners; Ashleigh Reed, a final year Events Management student at the University of Huddersfield, and Hannah Jarvis, a 2019 event graduate from the University of Chichester. Reviewing Season 4’s six guests, there was much laughter as we explored the different roles and characters featured. We love hearing from our listeners and inviting them on as guests - next time it could be you?Keep a track of all that's going on with the...
2021-04-2840 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Steve TaylorSend us a textOur final guest of season 4 is Steve Taylor, Director of Internships for the Department of Sport & Entertainment at the University of South Carolina. Steve talks to us about the joy of nurturing students and watching them develop a passion for working in events. Steve takes students all over the world to work at a wide variety of sporting and entertainment events and he believes humility and a sense of urgency are vital to success. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;www.theeventsinsight.com/
2021-04-2137 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Sabrina MeyersSend us a textWe chat this week to Sabrina Meyers, who tells us about how she became a social media and content marketing specialist within the global events and hospitality industry. Raised in Singapore, educated in Australia and with a career taking her to Europe, Sabrina entertains us with her story and offers some valuable advice to those wanting to succeed in the events industry. Hold onto your hat though - she’s a bit of a whirlwind!Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podc...
2021-04-1435 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Charlie MussettSend us a textWe’re joined this week by Charlie Mussett, an events and safety project manager with over 25 years’ experience managing and delivering televised mass events. After spending many years working on The Great North Run and its many regional counterparts (including Ethiopia), he is currently teaching a new generation of events professionals as well as consulting on many other differing event projects.
2021-04-0738 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Megan GillikinSend us a textJoin us as we chat to wedding planner, Megan Gillikan, in North Carolina, U.S.A. Along with running a successful wedding planning business for luxury clientele, Megan is also a podcast host (“Weddings for Real”) and founder of “The Planner’s Vault”, an online site for wedding planners in the first five years of running their business. Listen to Megan as she shares some of her favourite moments, along with some of the wisdom she has learned, much of it the hard way, from her experiences in the industry.
2021-03-3140 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Dominic StokesSend us a textWe’re joined this week by Dom Stokes, Head of Live Events for Sheffield City Trust. With a background in events spanning more than 30 years, Dom takes us on his journey, explaining that you’ll have the “best time of your life” in events, and why you have to “live it, love it, breathe it”. He also quotes T S Elliott, denounces apple sauce, and fancies himself as a young Robert Redford. Listen now to find out why.
2021-03-2436 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Fay SharpeSend us a textWe kick off Season 4 with the amazing Fay Sharpe, founder of Fast Forward15, co-founder of leading venue finding and event production company, Zibrant, (which we sold to BCD in 2016) mentor, mother and self-confessed workaholic. Fay dreamt of becoming a millionaire by the time she was 30 - did she make it?
2021-03-1738 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a Wrap Season 3Send us a textFor our Season 3 Finale, Jack and Ellan are joined by two lovely listeners, Jan and Lisa, to review the season’s guests whilst also celebrating International Women’s day. This episode is longer than normal, mainly because Jack is in the company of three women with a lot to say.
2021-03-1049 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Dan AssorSend us a textDan Assor talks to Jack and Ellan about his career running successful, large consumer and trade shows. Whist recording, Dan was preparing to embark on a 24-hour live vodcast to raise funds for the industry’s mental health and well-being charity, EventWell.
2021-03-0333 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Rick StaintonSend us a textFounder of the Smyle Group, Rick Stainton joins Jack and Ellan this week. Hear how a broken neck and failed events business didn’t stop him building a successful global creative agency and founding the influential and widely-recognised One Industry One Voice campaign.
2021-02-2440 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Paul 'Digger' BarrettSend us a textJack and Ellan are joined this week by Australian-born Paul “Digger” Barrett, owner of PBGlobal Events, specialists in project management and event overlay. His journey intoevents started with a bottle of Jack Daniels and led him to work and live all over the world,before settling in the UK. Hear more about this and how he’s keeping out of trouble duringlockdown here.
2021-02-1736 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Kelly FrewSend us a textJoined this week by Kelly Frew, Events Director, podcast and mentor, Jack and Ellan hear tales of the Big Brother house, David Attenborough and chartering your own plane. For 20+ years Kelly has worked in events in the media and travel industries, and is now embracing the world of large-scale, global virtual events - and on the lookout for new team members!
2021-02-1032 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Paul GriffinSend us a textWe’re joined this week by Paul Griffin of event infrastructure provider, Actavo Events,talking about luck, seizing opportunities, the myth of perfection and the importancecreating and maintaining a great team. Did you know we are all magicians?
2021-02-0339 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Neil ThompsonSend us a textJack and Ellan return for their third season, kicking things off with Neil Thompson, founder of The Delegate Wranglers. Neil’s enthusiasm is infectious and, in 2019, his contribution to the industry was recognised when he was named Events Personality of the Year. When you listen to him talking, you can understand why.
2021-01-2740 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a Wrap Season 2Send us a textAs Season Two comes to an end, Jack and Ellan are joined by listeners Clemy and Katie for the slightly longer than usual wrap session (lots to talk about!). They review this Season’s guests, put the hosts in the spotlight with some questions of there own, and discuss why this really is the best industry in the world!
2021-01-2042 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Rachel SheerinSend us a textEnding Season Two with a bang, Jack and Ellan chat to the award-winning keynote speaker, virtual MC, TEDx talker, Women in Events Board member and much, much more, Rachel Sheerin. Hear how she took the spirit of events from catering to motivational speaking and why she believes that this is “the best industry in the entire world!”
2021-01-1340 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Richard GouldingSend us a textKicking off 2021, Jack and Ellan chat to Richard Goulding, owner of Exhibition Vision EventServices and Stadium Announcer for Birmingham City FC. Hear about the twists and turnsof his journey into events after starting out as a professional DJ, why embracing rejection isso important, and why he believes people management is the most valuable skill in thisindustry.
2021-01-0637 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Mike O'ConnorSend us a textJack and Ellan celebrate the festive season with Canadian-born Mike O’Connor, formerprofessional ice-hockey player and now the Commercial Manager for the SheffieldSteelers. Hear him explain why he feels he has “the best job in the world!”
2020-12-3039 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Mark BreenSend us a textAnother international guest chats to Jack and Ellan this week when crowd and eventssafety specialist Mark Breen of Cuckoo Events and Safe Events joins them from Dublin. Hearhow Mark stumbled into this industry and why he believes self-awareness and doing thingsdifferently are so important.
2020-12-2340 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Emma HollingSend us a textDemonstrating the diversity of our wonderful events industry this week is the lovely Emma Holling, MD of Pure Records and Director of Underneath The Stars. Hear how Emma went from being a Maths teacher to running a record label and music festival, and why, when you’re not sure what to do, “just make tea”!
2020-12-1634 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Martin FullardSend us a textJack and Ellan follow a very different journey into events this week with Martin Fullard, Editor of Conference News and Editorial Director with Mash Media. From motorsport to media, Martin would encourage anyone thinking of working in this exciting industry to throw themselves into it!
2020-12-0932 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - It's a WrapSend us a textConcluding the inaugural Season, this wrap-up episode features a Season Review and Jack and Ellan are joined by two lucky listeners to chat about their interests in events, what they’ve learned from listening and what they’ve liked best about Season One. Look out for Season Two - COMING VERY SOON!
2020-11-2539 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Rupert BassodoneSend us a textSharing his unique and colourful upbringing and possibly one of the most interesting journeys into events, Rupert Bassadone, joins Jack and Ellan in the penultimate episode of the season. Rupert was born into events and, after running away from the circus, he soon returned. Hear him share his stories of Russian vodka, how to gain an unfair advantage and why a bad decision can be better than no decision.
2020-11-1836 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Carrie AbernathySend us a textListen to the multi-tasking, award-winning events planner, leadership influencer, blogger, public speaker, mentor and campaigner, Carrie Abernathy, who joins Jack and Ellan from across the pond to share her story and explain why she feels so lucky to have her “rock star job”.
2020-11-1135 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Jonathan NeillSend us a textThis week we are joined by an old football team mate of Jacks, Rugby League World Cup 2021’s Commercial Director, Jonathan Neill, who shares his journey from writing for a weekly football magazine through a range of sports PR & marketing roles and into commercial sponsorship of some of the largest major international sporting events.
2020-11-0436 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Ariel FertonaniSend us a textThis week we are joined by Brazilian Architect and Urban Planner, Ariel Fertinani, founding partner of Daale. He talks to us about his career so far, his love of the industry, how travel has been such an important part of his development and why he believes that softer skills are so most important.
2020-10-2838 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Ben KeastSend us a textThis week Jack and Ellan chat with Ben Keast, the UK Managing Director of Neptunus, provider of event structures and temporary buildings. With a career spanning just over twenty years, Ben has gained vast experience working on a wide variety of projects. His colleagues and peers speak very highly of him - listen for yourself why.......
2020-10-2128 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - With Special Guest Judith Patten MBESend us a textIn the first episode Ellan and Jack speak with Judith Patten MBE.Judith has been working in conferences and exhibitions since 1975. Here she shares her story of how she got to where she is today, still very much involved in the industry and with no plans to stop anytime soon, why she loves it so much and what she chatted to Her Majesty about when receiving her MBE.
2020-10-1432 min
The Events InsightThe Events Insight - Podcast TrailerSend us a textWelcome to The Events Insight official trailer! Here we reveal what our brand new podcast series is all about; where it all started, what we’ll be talking about, who we’ll be chatting with, and, of course, who should be listening (you!) and why. We’ll also attempt to explain what we hope to achieve by undertaking such a thing!
2020-10-0522 min