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In this inspiring episode of What One Thing, Smart Women in Meetings award winner Shameka Jennings, chief events officer at Events Noire, shares how betting on herself—and doing it scared—became the foundation for a thriving career in impact-driven event strategy.

Host JT Long sits down with Jennings to explore her journey from college campus events to building a successful business rooted in community, diversity, and purpose. She breaks down the IMPACT Approach she uses to design intentional experiences, explains how AI has become a powerful tool in her workflow, and reveals how manifestation (and a silent day in Bali) helped shape her goals.

Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on aligning events with long-term business outcomes, inviting attendees into the process, and trusting their own voice—even when the next step feels uncertain.

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In this episode of What One Thing, Smart Meetings' VP and editorial director, JT Long, sits down with Shawn Pierce, President of Strategic Events, Meetings & Incentives at MCI USA, to trace his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings on a Texas pig farm to leading a 130-person global team.

Shawn shares the pivotal moment when a mentor saw potential in him that changed his life and how that spark of belief continues to fuel his passion for mentoring future leaders. The conversation dives into:

💡 Why resilience is the defining skill for modern event professionals
💡 The power of mentorship in shaping careers and industries
💡 How to lead through uncertainty and develop teams who thrive under pressure
💡 Real talk on “doer to leader” transitions and why teachers make the best executives
💡 Building a sustainable pipeline of talent in the meetings industry

Whether you're a seasoned planner or just stepping into the field, this episode offers timeless insights on navigating career pivots, cultivating talent and finding purpose in leadership.

🔗 Listen now and discover the one thing that made all the difference in Shawn’s journey and could transform yours.

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In this powerful episode of What One Thing?, Michelle Mason, president and CEO of ASAE and recipient of the Smart Women in Meetings Marin Bright Legacy Award, opens up about the leadership philosophy that shaped her journey: servant leadership. From humble beginnings and early mentorship from her mother to leading one of the most influential association organizations in the country, Mason shares what it takes to modernize a 100-year-old institution and reimagine its value for a post-pandemic world.

The conversation explores:

• The bold strategic framework behind “Destination 2026”
• The role associations play in workforce development, policy, and human connection
• The personal power of mentorship, emotional intelligence, and lifelong learning

Whether you're an association executive, event professional, or rising leader, this episode offers actionable insight into how values-driven leadership can create lasting impact.

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In this special live edition of What One Thing?, recorded at Smart Meetings’ Innovation Experience, we head north to explore what makes Toronto a world-class destination for meetings and events. Smart Meetings' editorial director and VP, JT Long, sits down with Romina Kwong, founder of Eco-Friendly Events, and Hailey Dawood, owner of The Idea Hunter, to talk sustainability, diversity and why curiosity may be the most underrated superpower in event planning.

From using expired makeup to create auction-worthy art, curating culturally rich vendor rosters and reducing food waste at scale, these Toronto-based trailblazers are redefining what it means to create meaningful impact through meetings. You'll also hear fresh insights on how AI is shifting the planner’s toolkit—and why knowing your city (and your story) can change everything.

Whether you're an accidental planner, a DEI advocate, or just looking to create more purposeful experiences, this episode offers inspiration, practical takeaways, and a heartfelt reminder: real change starts with asking the right questions.

🎙 Sponsored by Destination Toronto

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What does it truly mean to be an ally—not just in title, but in everyday action? In this special episode of What One Thing?, we celebrate the inaugural Smart Allies cohort with candid conversations about leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. Leonard Hoops (President & CEO, Visit Indy), David Stevens (Co-founder, Olympian Meeting), and Mike May (President, Brightspot Incentives & Events) join host JT Long to unpack how allies go beyond lip service—walking people through the door of opportunity, not just up to it.

From hiring bold college grads and advocating for accessibility, to amplifying mental health conversations and crediting others in the room (and beyond), this episode is packed with honest stories, leadership wisdom, and action steps for anyone who wants to be a better mentor, sponsor, or ally.

Featuring special guests:
• Leonard Hoops and his accessible vision for Indy
• David Stevens on using your power for good
• Mike May and Brie Richards on paying it forward—early and often

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In this episode of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings’ vice president and editorial director JT Long reconnects with Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, for a second conversation about the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt 2025. Bauer shares insights into the surge in global demand despite geopolitical uncertainty and how IMEX Frankfurt prioritizes health, well-being and inclusivity through wellness rooms, mindful scheduling and accessibility initiatives.

They also discuss efforts to nurture future leaders in the events industry, including the Future Leaders Forum, Rising Talent programs and the Young Stars initiative. Bauer introduces the event’s 2025 talking point, “Impact 2.0,” emphasizing connection, sustainability and supporting the next generation of event professionals.

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In this episode of What One Thing, Smart Meetings VP and Content Director JT Long speaks with IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer about bold sustainability lessons from IMEX Frankfurt 2024. 

Bauer shares how simple changes—like removing beef from menus and reordering vegetarian options—can dramatically influence attendee behavior. She explains how IMEX measures sustainability efforts using external consultants, carbon tracking platforms, and venue partnerships. 

The conversation also dives into green RFPs, regional differences between the U.S. and Europe, responsible sourcing, waste diversion, and meaningful community give-back initiatives. 

Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring first steps to create more sustainable events.

www.smartmeetings.com

Host: JT Long

Producer: Eming Piansay

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In this episode of What One Thing, Smart Meetings’ VP and Content Director JT Long interviews Keith Alper, CEO and chairman of Creative Producers Group. Alper is a veteran of marketing, branding, business strategy and event production.

Alper shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from childhood performances in his basement to launching his first business at 17 while working at Six Flags. 

He reflects on the influence of his early experiences in the entertainment industry and the customer-first mentality he was ingrained with from amusement parks and hospitality.

www.smartmeetings.com

Hosted by: JT Long

Edited and Produced by: Eming Piansay

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 In this episode of What One Thing, host JT Long, VP and editorial director of Smart Meetings, welcomes Robin Shear, founder of Joy to the World Coaching, to discuss the transformative power of joy. Shear shares how embracing joy can enhance personal and professional well-being when embraced even during life's toughest moments. She offers practical tips like the "feel-good score." She recounts spontaneous adventures, like a 10-hour trip for a deep-dish pizza, illustrating how joy can be cultivated through connection, spontaneity, and daily mindfulness.

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How can leaders lean into having meaningful conversations?

In the latest discussion of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings' JT Long, vice president and content director, chats with Jess Pettitt, a keynote speaker, author and expert on navigating challenging conversations to improve workflow. Pettitt offers some helpful tips to give planners some starting steps in moving their team toward success.

www.smartmeetings.com

Hosted by: JT Long
Produced and Edited by: Eming Piansay

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In this discussion of What One Thing?, JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings, chatted with David Allison, a human values expert and founder of the Value Graphics Research Company, to explore how planners can leverage insights into human behavior to understand their attendees better and create engaging events.

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Are you integrating cryotherapy and IV drips in your events? On this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meetings' JT Long, vice president and content director, sat down with Sean Hoess, the co-founder of Eudemonia and Wanderlust Festival and Kelly Cavers, chief sales officer for The Palm Beaches, to explore what makes wellness events not only impactful but essential for meeting professionals looking to elevate their own conferences.

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On this episode of What One Thing?, JT Long vice president and content director of Smart Meetings sits down with Kate Patay, vice president of global engagement for Terramar, and Thuy Diep senior meeting planner of CWT Meetings & Events to discuss the art of building meaningful connections.

Listen in as they explore the differences between transactional and relational encounters.  

Patay and Diep share personal stories that highlight the power of empathy, storytelling, and making personal connections. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate more authentic and fulfilling relationships, both personally and professionally.

Hosted by: JT Long
Produced by: Sara Robertson
Edited by: Eming Piansay

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In this episode of What One Thing, a Smart Meetings podcast, host JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings, explores essential strategies for ensuring safety in an increasingly risky world. JT welcomes Kevin Coffey, a travel security and meeting risk advisor, who brings decades of expertise from his time as a detective with the Los Angeles Police Department's LAX Airport Crimes Investigation.

Coffey shares critical steps and advice to help meeting planners and travelers safeguard themselves and their guests, drawing on his extensive experience in the field.

For more information about Kevin Coffey's presentations, visit www.KevinCoffey.com. To view additional videos of Kevin sharing additional travel skills and meeting risk tips, tricks, and resources, visit his LinkedIn page https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin--coffey/ 

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If an event prof career life is a smorgasbord of hospitality job options, how do you decide what to put on your plate?

We asked an award-winning F&B expert.  In this episode of What One Thing? host JT Long, VP and content director of Smart Meetings, delves into the fascinating world of food and beverage with Thomas Whelan, director of operations for Levy Restaurants. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Whelan shares his journey from his early days in a restaurant to becoming a celebrated expert in large-scale event catering. He offers insights into the logistics of feeding thousands, the importance of creativity and passion in the culinary arts, and how every plate of food can inspire change. Tune in to learn Whelan's secrets for delivering remarkable dining experiences that leave a lasting impression on event attendees.

www.smartmeetings.com

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In this edition of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings chats with IMEX CEO Carina Bauer to discuss the lessons learned from IMEX Frankfurt that will inform IMEX America. Bauer highlights the success of their education program, frank discussions on tough topics and the show’s overall theme of impact.

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In this episode of the What One Thing? Smart Meetings welcomes Deborah Gardner, a former swimming champion and performance expert known for her competitive mentality and dynamic presentations. Gardner shares her unique journey from crashing weddings to becoming a key figure in the hospitality industry. She emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing challenges and building strong relationships. 

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In this Episode of What One Thing? JT Long, vice president and content director, continues her conversation with interviews Edward Perotti, an experienced event strategist. Perotti discusses the importance of taking initiative, staying true to oneself and managing the inherent stress of being an event professional by using humor and continually striving for improvement.

www.smartmeetings.com

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In this episode of the "What One Thing" podcast, JT Long, Vice President and Content Director at Smart Meetings, sits down with Geoff Freeman from US Travel to discuss the crucial need for adequate tools to organize international conferences. They delve into why these conferences are vital for advancing economies, science, medicine, and fostering global connections.

www.smartmeetings.com

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In this episode of "What One Thing," Smart Meetings interviews Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX, discussing the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt event. Bauer anticipates growth compared to previous years but notes that it may not reach the scale of IMEX America. Reflecting on innovations from the Las Vegas event, such as video content and immersive experiences, she highlights plans to introduce AI plugins for sessions at the European event. 

www.smartmeetings.com

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On this episode of What One Thing? JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings has an insightful conversation with Edward Perotti, an award-winning meeting designer and principle of EP Events and Experiences. With over 27 years of experience, Perotti shares valuable insights on transitioning from being an order-taker to a strategic leader in the events industry. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, adaptability, and assertiveness, offering practical advice for meeting professionals to move beyond logistical concerns and become indispensable assets in their organizations. From creative budget management to fostering transparent relationships with finance teams, Perotti 's candid anecdotes and actionable strategies provide inspiration for professionals seeking to make a lasting impact in event planning. 

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On this episode of What One Thing?  Vice President and Content Director of Smart Meeting JT Long chats with President of ASAE, the Center for Association Leadership, Michelle Mason to discuss finding one's own path and purpose, the evolving landscape of meetings and conferences, the need for inclusivity, sustainability, and adaptation to technology. Mason also emphasizes the significance of networking and mentorship in professional development, particularly for young meeting professionals entering the industry. 

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In this episode of "What One Thing?" from Smart Meetings, JT Long, Vice President and Content Director at Smart Meetings, interviews keynote speaker, luxury expert and author, Neen James, about the intersection of luxury and event planning. The discussion revolves around driving profitability, productivity, and accountability through paying extraordinary attention. James explores the definition of luxury, highlighting key characteristics such as high quality, authenticity, indulgence, and uniqueness.

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On this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting's Vice President JT Long chats with Dr. Romila “Romie” Mushtaq on what constitutes a Busy Brain and best practices to cure a Busy Brain.

Find out more about Dr. Romie here:  Brain Health Keynote Speaker | Dr. Romie (drromie.com)

Curious if you have a Busy Brain? Take the Busy Brain quiz here: Busy Brain Test - Dr. Romie (drromie.com)

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On this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting's Vice President JT Long chats with The Party Scientist Jacques Martiquet to explore the concept of bringing joy to events, turning attendees from spectators into connectors and the impact of movement and music on attendees.