The Conference Collective - Event Management Podcast
Welcome to the 'The Conference Collective' Podcast, celebrating the best in innovation and leadership from those who are creating a positive change in the business events industry. A podcast brought to you by the Professional Conference Organisers Association Inc. and hosted by Libbie Ray from Connected Event Group. This podcast provides listeners with behind the scenes access to some of the key innovators in our industry as they share their honest and raw insights. It highlights how collaboration, innovation and resilience are at the core of the events industry and the reasons we have managed to survive through the most challenging time our industry has faced. Get ready to learn more about the brave new world of the business events industry.
This season of 'The Conference Collective' Podcast was primarily recorded live at the PCOA24 conference, in Connected Event Group’s portable recording studio. We will be back recording new episodes at PCOA25, so please reach out to The PCOA if you are interested in starring as a guest for next season!
About The PCOA:
The PCO Association Inc. is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand.
The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector.
Website: www.pco.asn.au
About Connected Event Group:
At Connected Event Group we offer innovation and creativity in audio-visual services and event production, employing technical solutions that help people and businesses communicate with each other. We’ve been translating event technologies for our clients for over two decades specialising in AV equipment and service, technical event production management and broadcasting, across a range of industries. We’re experts in making the impossible possible.
Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com
About Libbie Ray:
Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group, a full-service technical production company that utilises creative AV solutions to produce innovative and meaningful event experiences. With 20 years of experience across marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a well-rounded approach to the new world of events.
Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, Libbie is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of AI to transform the industry and is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with her sector. She also serves as a Global Learning Ambassador for the Entrepreneurs' Organisation, further amplifying her impact on the industry.
Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/
Episodes
41 episodes
Real-Time Resilience for High-Pressure Humans with Dr Lucy Hone
Recorded live at the PCOA25 Conference in New Zealand, this episode of The Conference Collective features resilience researcher and bestselling author Dr Lucy Hone.Dr Lucy shares the deeply personal journey that shaped her work in resil...
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Response-Ability: The Secret to Powerful Leadership with Lisa O'Neill
Recorded live at the PCOA25 Conference in New Zealand, this episode of The Conference Collective features leadership expert Lisa O'Neill.Known for delivering hard truths with humour, Lisa shares her powerful perspective on responsibilit...
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How The Creator Economy Is Reshaping Events with Brooke Howard-Smith
Recorded live at PCOA25, this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast features futurist and entrepreneur Brooke Howard-Smith in conversation with Libbie Ray.Together they explore how AI, the creator economy and changing audience be...
Resilience, Loss and the Impact of Kindness with Kath Koschel
Recorded live at PCOA25 in New Zealand, Libbie Ray sits down with Kath Koschel to explore the real impact of kindness on leadership, workplace culture and human connection.The conversation unpacks the difference between being nice and be...
Next Horizon Thinking: How to Future-Proof Your Events with Ashton Bishop
In this episode of The Conference Collective, we’re joined by Ashton Bishop, strategy expert and award-winning keynote speaker, to explore how event professionals can apply Next Horizon Thinking to stay competitive in a f...
Decoding Human Behaviour: Anthony Laye on Mastering Client Relationships
Anthony Laye reveals the power of understanding human behavior in business and events. In this episode, he shares strategies for reading body language, responding to client feedback, and ensuring your communication resonates deeply. He emphasiz...
Entrepreneurial Insights and Building Lasting Partnerships with Jacqui Bates
Jacqui shares her journey from hotels to starting her own business, revealing the lessons learned along the way. She talks about the importance of training, mentorship, and fostering relationships in the event industry. Jacqui also discusses th...
Building Resilient Teams and Leading Through Change with Dr. Sean Richardson
Dr. Sean Richardson draws from his experience in high-intensity sports to discuss how to perform at the highest level under pressure. In this episode, he reveals strategies for managing stress, preventing burnout, and creating successful, resil...
Events as a Catalyst for Change with Karen Bolinger
In this episode, Karen Bolinger shares her journey through the events industry and discusses how events can be more than just a good time - they can be a catalyst for intellectual and social impact. She talks about the importance of educating g...
The Art of Performance: How Confidence Shapes Communication with Dr. Louise Mahler
Dr. Louise Mahler discusses the intersection of performance and communication, emphasising how to incorporate confidence-building techniques into everyday business practices. She talks about how your voice, tone, and body language can influence...
Promoting Business Events: Kelly Maynard on Australia’s Global Appeal
Join us as we chat with Kelly Maynard about her unique journey from working in hotels to leading Business Events Australia. Kelly takes us through her experiences traveling the world and attending events as a customer, using those insights to s...
Thriving Under Pressure: Mindset, Resilience, and Well-Being in the Event Industry with Lauren Parsons
In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Parsons to explore the art of thriving under pressure, particularly in the fast-paced and often stressful world of events. Lauren shares how resilience, mindset, and self-care techniques—like exercise, b...
AI, Improv, and the Future of Event Technology with Adam Spencer
Adam Spencer explores the exciting role AI will play in the future of events, from overcoming language barriers to personalising marketing efforts. He discusses how improvisation skills, along with preparation and AI collaboration, can make a w...
From Burnout to Balance: The Importance of Self-Care in The Event Industry with Nicole White
Join us on The Conference Collective as Nicole White delves into the crucial topic of self-care in the bustling world of events. Nicole emphasises the importance of personal well-being for professionals in the industry, highlighting how taking ...
Creating Customer Success Stories with Darrell Hardidge
In this episode of The Conference Collective, Darrell Hardidge takes centre stage to unravel the intricacies of customer success in the realm of business events. Join us as we delve into the critical role of analytics and reporting in monitorin...
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Breaking Barriers: The Role of RAPs in Business Events with Rebecca Wessels
In this episode of The Conference Collective, we are thrilled to welcome Rebecca Wessels, the founder and CEO of Ochre Dawn, to discuss the transformative power of Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs). Rebecca shares her insights on what RAPs are...
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A Harmonious Approach to Events and Wellbeing with Ciaran Gribbin
On this episode of The Conference Collective, dive into the enchanting world of music, events, and well-being with our guest, Ciaran Gribbin. Throughout the episode, Ciaran discusses his rich background in the music and events industries, offer...
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Creating Safe and Inclusive Spaces with Dr. Lucy Mercer-Mapstone
In this episode of The Conference Collective, Dr. Lucy Mercer-Mapstone shares invaluable insights on fostering inclusivity and safety in business events. Join us as we explore the nuances of planning for accessibility and discover small, impact...
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From Dream to Reality: Unlocking the Potential of AI with Craig Rispin
In this episode of The Conference Collective, we explore the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) with Craig Rispin, a renowned futurist. Craig provides insights into the history and evolution of AI, from its origins to its current...
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Embracing Change and 2024 Event Predictions with Michael Fleck
Join us on The Conference Collective as Michael Fleck guides us through the dynamic landscape of business events in 2024. Michale delves into the importance of not just talking about sustainability but implementing policies and practices that c...
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Feeding Change with Rachel Hibble of OzHarvest
In this episode of The Conference Collective, we're joined by Rachel Hibble, who takes us on her inspiring career journey with OzHarvest, a leading organisation in the fight against food waste. Rachel shares insights into OzHarvest's current an...
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The Past, Present, and Future of The PCOA: A Conversation With Barry Neame
Join us on The Conference Collective Podcast as we sit down with Barry Neame, PCOA president, to discuss the association's plans for 2024 and beyond. Barry shares insights into the future of PCOA, outlining upcoming initiatives and goals, while...
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Innovate, Connect, and Challenge: Crafting Unforgettable Events with Mykel Dixon
On this episode of The Conference Collective, Mykel Dixon shares his insights on creating standout events that resonate with attendees. From challenging norms to embracing innovation, Mykel discusses the power of simplicity, creative thinking, ...
Making The Most of Your Event Photographer With Helen Oswald
In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Helen Oswald who shares her top tips on capturing prominent moments from your next event. Helen discusses how to maximise staging and what design features will have a positive impa...
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Creating Innovative and Sustainable Exhibition Stands with Belinda Meredith
In this episode of The Conference Collective Podcast we welcome Belinda Meredith who discusses the significant waste problems in the exhibition and event space along with the sustainability practices that event organisers, stand builders, and e...
