Shows
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Connecting the Dots at Convening Leaders: Zanny Minton Beddoes, Adam Grant, Trevor Noah & Tabitha BrownIn this episode, the Convene editorial team previews the main stage lineup at Convening Leaders 2026 — including The Economist editor-in-chief Zanny Minton Beddoes, organizational psychologist Adam Grant, actress and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown, and comedian and bestselling author Trevor Noah. They explore how these keynotes and their talks will shape the rest of the conversations in Philadelphia. Links:· Joining the Dots With Zanny Minton Beddoes: https://www.pcma.org/joining-the-dots-with-zanny-minton-beddoes/· Register for Convening Leaders 2026: https://conveningleaders.org/ Get News Junkie: https://www.pcma.org/campaign/news-junkie/ Meet the Conve...
2025-12-1922 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: How Convening Leaders 2026 Bakes Sustainability Into the ExperienceIn this episode, the team previews how Convening Leaders 2026 in Philadelphia is weaving sustainability into every touchpoint—from right-sized F&B and food-recovery partnerships to standardized, reusable show floors, digital signage, walkable logistics, and post-event carbon accounting. We also spotlight behind-the-scenes venue practices that make greener choices the default. Links:· How Convening Leaders 2026 Is Embracing Sustainability: https://www.pcma.org/convening-leaders-2026-embracing-sustainability/· What Meeting Planners Can Do to Reduce Food Waste: https://www.pcma.org/what-meeting-planners-can-do-reduce-food-waste/· Register for Convening Leaders 2026: https://conveningleaders.org/ Get News Junkie: https://www...
2025-12-0514 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: The Stories We Loved in 2025: Fast Tracks, Inclusive Awards, Accessibility Wins and Everyday Work JoyIn this episode, the Convene Editors are swapping their favorite Convene stories from 2025 — from events that redefined attendee engagement to stories that challenged how we think about inclusion, accessibility, and workplace culture. Join Jen, Michelle, Barbara, and Kate for a behind-the-scenes look at the reporting that inspired them most — and a glimpse at what’s next for Convene. Links:· Fast Company’s Secret to Event Success: Fast Tracks With Top Innovators: https://www.pcma.org/fast-company-secret-event-success-fast-tracks-innovators/· How REI Co-Op’s Events Are Inclusive in Nature: https://www.pcma.org/rei-coop-events-are-inclusive-in-nature/· This Medica...
2025-11-2820 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Inside Convene’s Covers: How Illustrations Bring Ideas to LifeEvery issue of Convene opens with an illustrated cover — a long-standing tradition that captures ideas, not just images. In this behind-the-scenes conversation, the editorial team shares how those covers come to life, from concept to collaboration with artists around the world. Hear how illustration shapes storytelling, why abstract art sparks curiosity, and what goes into creating visuals that make readers stop, think, and turn the page. Links:· Convene’s Digital Edition: https://www.convene-digital.org/convene/library/· Point Five: https://point5.com/· Lane Press: https://lanepress.com/ Get News Junkie...
2025-11-1430 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Do We Still Need Event Swag? Sustainable Giveaways That Build Connection (and Ditch the Waste)Is swag still worth it—or just landfill with a logo? In this Talk, the Convene editors debate whether business events need giveaways at all, and what actually delivers value when they do. From “no-swag” charitable gifting and local-maker gift cards to consumables, thoughtful keepsakes, and scent-driven memories, the group shares smart ideas for reducing waste while deepening attendee connection. If you’re rethinking bags, bottles, and branded pens, this episode gives practical alternatives and guardrails. Links:· 7 Wellness-Themed Gifting Ideas: https://meetings.skift.com/2025/10/13/7-wellness-themed-gifting-ideas/· Rethinking Swag at Events: https://www.pcma.org/rethinking...
2025-11-0718 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Networking, Rebuilt: What Attendees Want vs. What Organizers Deliver (Freeman’s XLNC Deep Dive)Freeman’s latest XLNC report reveals a major mismatch: attendees want organizers to curate subject-matter experts and set purposeful topics for networking—while many planners still default to open “white space,” receptions, and chance encounters. In this Convene Talk, we unpack how to architect serendipity with intention (think BrainDate-style problem matching), design quieter, introvert-friendly options, prep exhibitors with experts—not sales scripts— and give Gen Z clearer ways to start meaningful conversations. Links:· Why Your Approach to Networking Isn’t Meeting Attendees’ Needs: https://www.pcma.org/why-your-approach-to-networking-is-not-meeting-attendees-needs/· Beyond the Old Boys’ Club: How Women Are N...
2025-10-3117 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Travel’s Talent Crunch: How Events Can Help Close a 43-Million Worker GapThe travel industry is booming—but a World Travel & Tourism Council report warns of a 43 million-person workforce shortfall in the next decade. What does that mean for meetings and events? The Convene team digs into where the pinch is already showing, why service roles can’t be automated away, and how pipelines—student outreach, paid apprenticeships, and clearer career paths—can attract new talent. Links:· WTTC: Travel is booming, but it needs workers: https://www.travelweekly.com/Europe-Travel/WTTC-summit-travel-needs-workers· X-Culture Program Inspires Students to Innovate in the Events Industry: https://www.pcma.org/xculture-p...
2025-10-2418 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Too Many Industry Events? Why Planners and Suppliers Can’t AgreeAs the events calendar fills up with global trade shows, familiar debates resurface: Are there simply too many industry events — or just not enough of the right ones? Convene editors break down insights from a recent article on the topic, discuss how event models may be due for a rethink, and explore why niche, purpose-built gatherings may hold the key to more meaningful industry connections. Links:· Both Planners and Suppliers Agree: There Are Too Many Industry Events: https://meetings.skift.com/2025/10/02/84352/· LinkedIn Post and Poll from Joe Fijol, DMCP: https://www.linkedin.com...
2025-10-1715 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Article: Science Conferences Bucking the TrendRecord attendance at two major global scientific conferences — despite domestic funding cuts and travel headaches for international attendees — demonstrates the resilience of the scientific community and strategic thinking on the part of organizers.Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, digital managing editor at Convene.Read the Article: Science Conferences Bucking the Trend: https://www.pcma.org/science-conferences-bucking-the-trend/Follow Convene:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcmaconvene/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@pcmaconvene Medium: https://medium.com/@convenemagazine X: http...
2025-10-1509 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: 2025 Salary Survey - Pay Gaps, Workload Strain, and Why Agency Drives SatisfactionWhat’s really behind event planners’ pay dissatisfaction, when most still love the industry? In this Convene Talk, we unpack highlights from our 2025 Salary Survey: a persistent gap between compensation and job/industry satisfaction and why agency (taking on added duties by choice) correlates with higher morale. We compare director-level compensation across association roles, examine early-career pay realities, and dig into continuing education budgets. Plus: external pressures (inflation, geography), and the story behind our cover art that asks the question many are thinking: Am I being paid what I’m worth? Links:· Salary Survey 2025...
2025-10-1019 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Quishing at Events - QR Code Scams, Attendee Trust, and Practical Safeguards for PlannersQR codes make events smoother—but they’re also a growing attack surface. In this Convene Talk, we unpack quishing (malicious QR code scams), from a live “honey pot” demo at a cybersecurity summit to everyday tricks that exploit attendee trust. We share easy fixes planners can deploy now—like printing the full destination URL next to every QR code—plus the FTC’s top tips, verification habits that actually stick, and how to keep QR convenience without sacrificing safety. Links:· Even scam experts fall for ‘quishing’ trap at global anti-fraud event in Singapore: https://thein...
2025-10-0322 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: SXSW 2026 Without a Convention Center: Neighborhood “Villages,” Constraints, and Smarter Brand ActivationsHow do you reimagine a city-wide icon when its central venue is gone? In this Convene Talk, the team unpacks SXSW 2026 and its pivot to badge-specific neighborhoods across Austin. We dig into why constraints spark creativity, what “villages” mean for brand activations and attendee flow, how to balance strategy vs. serendipity, and whether asking attendees to set goals up front is fair. Links:· Four Insights on SXSW’s Evolving Brand Activation Landscape for 2026: https://www.eventmarketer.com/article/insights-sxsw-evolving-brand-landscape-2026/· Designing a More Natural Convention Center for Austin: https://www.pcma.org/natural-conventi...
2025-09-2621 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Article: What Planners Need to Know About Using AI in the Hiring ProcessBoth employers and job candidates are using AI resources to streamline the hiring process — but sometimes this can backfire.Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, digital managing editor at Convene.Read the Article: What Planners Need to Know About Using AI in the Hiring Process: https://www.pcma.org/using-ai-in-hiring-process/Follow Convene:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcmaconvene/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@pcmaconvene Medium: https://medium.com/@convenemagazine X: https://x.com/pcmaconvene Subscr...
2025-09-2409 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Why Bleisure (Done Right) Sparks Better Ideas and Better EventsIs packing every minute of a business trip actually killing creativity? In this Convene Talk, we unpack the “leisure boom,” why adding white space to work travel and conferences fuels breakthroughs, and how design tweaks—like serendipity paths and simple sticky-note walls—unlock engagement. We also sanity-check the headline stats, discuss ROI vs. reflection time, and explore why Gen Z says their best ideas happen away from the desk. Practical takeaways for planners and travelers included.Links:· Stop Rushing Business Trips: Benefits Of The Bleisure Boom: https://www.forbes.com/sites/sarahhernholm/2025/08/28/stop-rushing-business-trips-benefits-of-the-bleisure-boom/· The Science of Aha...
2025-09-1918 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Article: Can Work Be Fun?Bree Groff’s book Today Was Fun explores how maximizing joy at work leads to a team culture that fosters intentionality, care, and courtesy.Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, digital managing editor at Convene.Read the Article: Can Work Be Fun?: https://www.pcma.org/can-work-be-fun/Follow Convene:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcmaconvene/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@pcmaconvene Medium: https://medium.com/@convenemagazine X: https://x.com/pcmaconvene Subscribe to our news...
2025-09-1709 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Fyre Festival 2 Fizzles: Lessons in Trust, Influencers, and Why Events Need ProfessionalsRemember Fyre Festival? It tried to make a comeback. In this Convene Talk, the team breaks down the short, doomed saga of “Fyre Festival 2”—from phantom venues to a surprise eBay fire-sale—and what it reveals about influencer hype, ethics, and the critical role of professional event planning. We contrast Fyre’s spin with Burning Man’s radical transparency, revisit the Andy King debate, and explore how AI deepfakes are fueling a new wave of fake events.Links:· Is Fyre Festival 2 happening? Mexican officials and hotels not so sure: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/2025/03/05/fyre-festival-2-m...
2025-09-1220 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: When Weird Works (and When It Doesn’t): Lessons From the World’s Wildest Science ConferenceWhat happens when researchers trade lecture halls for campgrounds, five-minute rhymed papers, and walk-up songs? In this Convene Talk, the editorial team unpacks a recent Nature article on the “Woodstock of Biology” — a freewheeling festival near Prague that pushes the boundaries of what a scientific conference can be. From playful formats and outdoor experiments to questions about inclusivity, outcomes, and design principles like MAYA (“most advanced yet acceptable”), we ask: when does weird energize an event — and when does it alienate?Links:· Scientific bedlam at the world’s weirdest and wildest research conference: https://www.nature.com/articles...
2025-09-0518 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Inside Create & Cultivate: How Women-Only Business Festivals Are Reinventing Networking and EventsThe women-focused festival Create & Cultivate has grown into one of the largest business events of its kind, blending celebrity keynotes, AI-powered networking, and brand activations that wow attendees and sponsors alike. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team unpacks what makes the event so successful, the debates around women-only spaces, and how such formats are reshaping the future of networking.Links:· How Create & Cultivate Built a Business Event Women Want to Attend Every Year: https://www.bizbash.com/event-production-planning/inside-the-2025-create-and-cultivate-festival· 40-year-old sold her company for $22 million—2 years later she bought it back and...
2025-08-2918 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: From Pledges to Action: What Two Sustainability Reports Reveal About the Future of EventsIn this Convene Talk, the editorial team unpacks the Honeycomb Strategies State of the Sustainable Events Industry: Summer 2025 Trends & Risks Report and the Convene 4 Climate inaugural report, comparing their insights on KPIs, mentorship, supply chain ethics, and the shift toward measuring positive impact. From innovative tools like the Sustainable Traveler Impact Companion System to the role of trust and local sourcing, this discussion explores where the industry is making progress — and where it’s still falling short.Links:· State of the Sustainable Events Industry: Summer 2025 Trends & Risks Report: https://www.tsnn.com/sustainability/state-of-the-sustainable-events-industry-summer-2025-trends-risks-report· ...
2025-08-2227 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Standing Their Ground - How the Events Industry Is Navigating the DEI BacklashWhen a recent U.S. executive order labeled diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts “immoral and illegal,” some organizations quietly swapped out the language — while others doubled down on their commitments. In this behind-the-scenes conversation, the Convene editorial team discusses our August cover story on how the events industry is responding to the backlash. Links:· DEI Done Differently: https://www.pcma.org/magazine-issue/august-2025/· Convene Series: How to Build a Career on Your Terms with Deanna Nwosu: Mentorship, Pivots, and Purpose-Driven Growth in Events: https://share.transistor.fm/s/ce746421· Denise H...
2025-08-1524 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Article: Crossing Borders to Address Attendee Safety ConcernsTwo associations have moved their conferences from the U.S. to Canada due to rising sociopolitical tensions — and despite financial consequences. Here is how they arrived at those decisions.Written and read by Kate Mulcrone, managing digital editor at Convene.Read the Article: Crossing Borders to Address Attendee Safety Concerns: https://www.pcma.org/crossing-borders-attendee-safety-concerns/Follow Convene:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcmaconvene/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@pcmaconvene Medium: https://medium.com/@convenemagazine X: https...
2025-08-1308 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Did the Pandemic Age Our Brains? What It Means for Events, Well-Being, and ConnectionA new study reveals that our brains may have aged nearly six months during the pandemic—regardless of whether we had COVID-19. In this Convene Talk episode, the team explores what that means for our industry, how meetings support brain health, and why live experiences are more essential than ever. Links:· Pandemic aged our brains – even those who never caught Covid, study finds: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/covid-health-brain-health-impact-b2793636.html· An Events Industry Leader’s Strategies for Managing Stress: https://www.pcma.org/events-industry-leader-strategies-managing-stress/· Pandemic Pastimes: How Hobbies Help Us Deal w...
2025-08-0817 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: The Big Beautiful Bill: What the U.S. Policy Shift Means for the Events IndustryIn this episode of the Convene podcast, the editorial team breaks down the bill’s potential impact on the U.S. events industry — from wins like expanded Pell Grant access and airport modernization, to major concerns over Brand USA’s 80% funding cut. Tune in as we unpack the ripple effects on international attendance, workforce development, global competitiveness, and more. Links:· The $80 Million Mistake: How America Just Defunded Its Own Influence: https://www.gatheringpoint.news/p/the-80-million-mistake-how-america?r=l1yon· David Adler’s comment on LI: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/david-adler_the-80...
2025-08-0123 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: BookCon’s Comeback and the Rise of Offline Book CommunitiesIn this episode, the Convene team explores why the beloved book convention is making a comeback, what it says about shifting cultural habits, and how in-person literary gatherings are reemerging as powerful community hubs. Plus, ideas for how event organizers can take inspiration from this trend to better engage younger audiences. Links:· BookCon Will Return in 2026: https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/trade-shows-events/article/98044-bookcon-will-return-in-2026.html· Designing an Intimate Conference for 10,000: https://www.pcma.org/designing-intimate-conference-10000/· The New Era of Gathering: Embracing ‘Generous Authority’: https://www.pcma.org/priya-parker-new-era...
2025-07-2519 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: How Extreme Weather Is Disrupting Events — And What Planners Can Do About ItIn this episode, the Convene team explores new research on the rising number of weather-related disruptions — from storms and heatwaves to wildfires — and the mounting financial and operational risks for event organizers. The conversation offers insights into how planners can strengthen resilience, advocate for data-informed decisions, and turn challenges into leadership opportunities. Links:· Mapping the impact of extreme weather on global events and mass gatherings: Trends and adaptive strategies: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212420925004522· When the Show Goes On: Planning Events After a Natural Disaster: https://www.pcma.org/extreme-wea...
2025-07-1816 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Why Airports and Airlines Deserve a Bigger Role in Business EventsAirports aren’t just gateways—they can be game changers for event professionals. In this Convene Talk we explore how planners are underutilizing airports and airlines in the event experience. From welcome moments and in-airport meetings to lounge perks and missed group sales opportunities, the team shares practical ideas and examples that will have you rethinking how to partner with the travel infrastructure you (and your attendees) already use. Links:· New study reveals the top 10 airports for business travel: https://www.traveldailynews.com/statistics-trends/the-top-10-airports-for-business-travel-revealed-by-new-study/· How to Design for Return on Emotion: htt...
2025-07-1124 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Time-Smart, Not Time-Stressed: Productivity Habits That Actually Work for Event ProfessionalsIs your to-do list running your day? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team unpacks the top time-management strategies from expert Max Ohlenschlager—plus their own tried-and-true hacks. Learn how to reframe tasks, avoid burnout, and build focus through mindful planning, buffer zones, and yes—even breaking up with the Pomodoro method. Links:· 8 Ways to Organize Your Workday: https://www.pcma.org/8-ways-organize-workday/· Time Anxiety: The Illusion of Urgency and a Better Way to Live: https://www.amazon.com/Time-Anxiety-Illusion-Urgency-Better/dp/0593799550· A New Event Embraces Neurodivergence: https://www.pcma.org/neurodi...
2025-06-2731 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: How to Cope With Cognitive Overload in Uncertain Times: Productivity and Mental Clarity for Event ProsIn this Convene Talk episode, we unpack how the “hidden tax” of cognitive ambiguity is eroding leadership clarity — and what to do about it. From time-blocking your stress to reframing internal narratives, the team explores practical, research-backed strategies to help meeting professionals stay focused, calm, and present — even amid global disruptions and information overload. Links:· How to Stop Worrying About Tariffs (and Everything Else): https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-stop-worrying-tariffs-everything-else-juliet-funt-ra8pe/· Juliet Funt: https://www.julietfunt.com/· 3 Secrets of Resilient People: https://www.pcma.org/3-secrets-resilient-people-lucy-hone-tedx-talk/ Get News Junkie: https...
2025-06-2013 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: How Tariffs, Visa Delays, and Travel Uncertainty Are Reshaping the Events IndustryIn this Convene Talk episode, our editors unpack how new U.S. border policies, rising visa wait times, and shifting international perceptions are dampening event attendance and travel. Discover what planners are doing—and not doing—to address the growing uncertainty impacting global participation at major U.S. events. Links:· An Increasingly Bleak Travel Forecast for the U.S.: https://www.pcma.org/bleak-travel-forecast-us/· Understanding Your Rights at Customs: What to Do If You’re Detained: https://www.lawsb.com/understanding-your-rights-at-customs-what-to-do-if-youre-detained/· Arriving with Ease in the United States for IPW: https://www.ipw.c...
2025-06-0635 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: Does AI Boost Productivity or Kill Motivation? Exploring the Hidden Costs of Working with AIIs AI making us better—or just busier? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we explore surprising research on how AI boosts productivity but drains motivation. From ethical use to emotional impact, the team shares insights for event professionals navigating AI in a rapidly changing landscape. Links:· Research: Gen AI Makes People More Productive—and Less Motivated: https://hbr.org/2025/05/research-gen-ai-makes-people-more-productive-and-less-motivated· The Science of Aha! Moments: Designing Events for Maximum Inspiration: https://www.pcma.org/science-of-aha-moments-designing-events-inspiration/· Can I Say That?: https://www.amazon.com/Can-Say-That-Poornima-Luthra/dp/1292737131/· How two major newspapers...
2025-05-3029 min
PCMA Convene PodcastConvene Talk: What’s New at edUcon 2025: Innovation, Inclusion, and Immersive Learning in Bourbon CityThis episode has been kindly sponsored by Louisville Tourism. Learn more at GoToLouisville.com/meeting-planners/.In this episode of Convene Talk, we unpack what’s ahead at PCMA’s edUcon 2025 — from deeper learning tracks to inclusive programming and immersive local experiences. Held in Louisville, aka Bourbon City, this year’s event focuses on three themes — Blend, Innovate, and Craft — with sessions designed to be more practical, relevant, and interactive. We spotlight keynotes like Imani Ellis and Denim Richards, explore the new AI-focused Spark sessions, and discuss how first-timer filters and experiential formats make this edUcon especially participant...
2025-05-2312 min