The Business of Meetings

Today, we are thrilled to welcome Ethan King as our guest. Ethan is an entrepreneur and author who coaches individuals on AI through the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO). He joins us today to share insights on entrepreneurship, books, and life. He also explains how small business owners can implement AI. Stay tuned as Ethan breaks down practical AI strategies that any entrepreneur can start using today. Ethan's Journey Ethan has been an entrepreneur for 25 years. He began with a passion for art and a pivot into graphic design. While in college, a class project evolved into a real e-commerce business supplying fraternity and sorority gear. Over time, he expanded into Zeus Closet, a retail and custom apparel business serving entertainment, corporate, and educational markets. Starting with only $700 alongside his future wife and business partner, Ethan emphasizes creative problem-solving and simplicity in business. His focus on automation began in 2011 and eventually evolved into AI, which he has been teaching and applying in practical ways across his businesses for the past three years. Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) and Accelerator Ethan considers EO and its Accelerator program his practical MBA. After joining EO in 2014, he applied systems and frameworks to scale his businesses, focusing on people, cash, strategy, and execution. Since then, he has coached other entrepreneurs through the Accelerator program, helping them reach the million-dollar revenue milestone. He highlights the value of peer learning, mentorship, and surrounding oneself with a like-minded community as essential elements for business growth. Wealth Beyond Money In his book Wealth Beyond Money, Ethan introduces his six dimensions of success: spirituality, intellect, money, physical presence, love, and entertainment, spelling SIMPLE. He recommends constant calibration across those areas, rather than balance. The book, inspired by a TEDx-style talk in 2014, became a bestseller in multiple categories. The AI Evolution After his wife introduced him to ChatGPT in 2022, Ethan immediately implemented it in his businesses and demonstrated its power to other EO marketing chairs. Recognizing the demand, he began teaching AI strategies to business owners and wrote ChatGPT to Double Your Business in 90 Days. He updates the book continuously, providing readers with fresh content and practical tools for implementing AI efficiently. Implementing AI in Business Ethan used AI in his own business as a testing ground before he began teaching others, applying tools like voice agents, social media automation, and custom AI solutions to improve efficiency and scale operations with minimal resources. His approach focuses on practicality, so he only teaches methods that genuinely benefit everyday business owners in B2B and B2C contexts. Perspective on AI Adoption Ethan has noticed that most entrepreneurs are aware of AI but are barely scratching the surface. Experts using AI are rare, while some people remain resistant. He highlights proactive learning, noting that AI will replace jobs for those who ignore it, but can create opportunities for those who embrace it. He draws parallels to past technological shifts to illustrate the transformative potential of AI. Work-Life Integration and Partnership Ethan explains that working with his wife in business has strengthened their relationship. She handles operational responsibilities while he focuses on vision and creativity. He stresses the importance of shared goals and complementary roles, describing their partnership as a battlefield collaboration that builds resilience and alignment. Year-End Advice for Small Business Owners Ethan recommends three key actions: invest in AI learning and team training, upgrade necessary equipment and software, and intentionally reflect and plan for the upcoming year. He encourages people to create vision movies as a tool to emotionally engage with people's personal and business goals, integrating reflection and planning into a meaningful process that drives results. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Ethan King On his Website LinkedIn

We are absolutely delighted to welcome Rashmi Airan as our guest today! Rashmi is an extraordinary human being with remarkable depth of character, and as an ex-felon and former lawyer turned keynote speaker, her journey has been truly unique. She is an unapologetic truth-teller, prison chocolatier, and a champion of growth through struggle. She's also a Bollywood dance aficionado, a singer, a corporate change leader, and an endurance athlete. Tune in to hear Rashmi's powerful story about ethics, accountability, and leadership forged through adversity. Rashmi's Early Journey and Identity Growing up in South Florida as the daughter of Indian immigrants, Rashmi internalized the pressure to be the perfect little girl. Her identity became tied to her achievements, as she believed success meant making others proud through grades, elite schools, and financial stability. She built a strong academic and professional foundation, eventually opening her own real estate law practice while raising two young children. Career Success, Overwork, and a Critical Decision As the real estate market boomed in 2007, Rashmi hustled nonstop, juggling motherhood, a struggling marriage, and a solo legal practice. In that stressed state, she met a developer who presented "creative" buyer incentive deals. Although her gut signaled something was wrong, she convinced herself it would be fine because so many others were doing it. She moved forward without digging deeper, worked with the client for 15 months, and then moved on. The FBI Investigation and Legal Fallout Four years later, the FBI appeared at her door. Believing she had done nothing wrong, she spoke to them without legal counsel, answering aggressively from memory. Two years after that, she received a grand jury subpoena and was soon after indicted for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and 24 counts of bank fraud tied to transactions she handled. Seven years after she met the client, she faced the collapse of the entire identity she had built around perfection and achievement. Owning Responsibility and Choosing Accountability Rashmi's attorney revealed the truth she had been avoiding, that she had a duty to ask herself hard questions, listen to her inner voice, and walk away when things felt wrong. Even though she had not intended to do anything wrong, she had failed to uphold that fiduciary responsibility. Pleading guilty was the hardest decision of her life, but she chose radical accountability, calling 200 people in her community to tell them personally before anything appeared publicly. Instead of rejection, she received compassion and forgiveness, which began her healing process. Prison, Fear, and Inner Strength Rashmi surrendered on August 17, 2015. Terrified of the unknown and heartbroken to leave her children, she walked into prison with no control over safety, environment, or routine. Processing, strip searches, and entering a floor of strangers amplified her fear. Yet she was sustained by her faith and the story of how her grandfather got imprisoned as a revolutionary alongside Gandhi in India. Remembering his strength reminded her that she could endure her own trial. Healing, Forgiveness, and Spiritual Growth While serving her sentence, Rashmi confronted her shame, fear, and anger. After forgiving herself, she eventually forgave the developer, who never got indicted. She realized that harboring anger was harming her more than the injustice itself, and she came to believe her experience served a larger spiritual purpose- to evolve into someone capable of helping others through struggle and uncertainty. Emerging as a Speaker and Guide After her release, people encouraged Rashmi to share her story due to the grace and integrity with which she had navigated her ordeal. She began speaking, hoping to help others avoid similar mistakes. Over time, her message expanded into resilience, values, integrity, and navigating uncertainty. Her work now focuses on keynotes, workshops, coaching, and leadership retreats that teach her methodology for moving through adversity. A Framework for Navigating Uncertainty Rashmi points out that everyone faces struggles, whether legal, medical, financial, emotional, or spiritual. Her core message is that you cannot rise above hardship by pushing harder. Growth comes from feeling the pain, reframing it, grounding yourself in values, surrendering ego and control, and evolving into a better version of yourself. This framework especially applies to solopreneurs and small business owners who juggle endless decisions and pressure. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Rashmi Airan On her website LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok Email: Rashmi@rashmiairan.com

Today, we are excited to welcome Beth Lawrence as our guest. Over the past 20 years, Beth has seen the highs and lows of building and growing a business. Join us as she shares her entrepreneurial journey and the lessons she has learned along the way. Beth's Journey Beth began college aiming to become a writer or professor, but she quickly realized the academic path was not for her, and pivoted. When she discovered event planning, it clicked instantly. She graduated during the 2008–2009 recession and built her career step by step, seizing each available stable opportunity, from property management to luxury catering, restaurants, startups, and volunteer roles. She created her own non-linear education, intentionally collecting skills from every job she did, no matter how small. That combination of creative, logistical, operational, and strategic strengths now defines her. Grit and Curiosity Beth treated every role as an opportunity to learn and grow. Administrative jobs, car dealerships, part-time shifts, internships, event operations, and volunteer work all became training grounds. That mindset, coupled with an overachieving work ethic, shaped her as a multidimensional strategist rather than a single-lane planner. Discovering Her Entrepreneurial Drive Beth always felt pulled toward entrepreneurship. After years of gaining experience across various organizations, she found a startup role that excited her. When she was unexpectedly laid off, her husband's encouragement motivated her to launch her own business. Her family and friends supported her decision, recognizing her determination and her ability to succeed. Uncertainty and Early Mistakes Beth acknowledges the uncertainty of entrepreneurship and explains how companies often use that as a lever to keep employees in place. She made plenty of mistakes in her early years but reframes them as essential lessons, embracing the mindset that every failure provides data and every misstep informs the next decision. She still relies on her career mementos file, which contains cards, testimonials, and small wins, to recalibrate during moments of self-doubt. Imposter Syndrome and Growth Even though imposter syndrome still surfaces at unexpected moments, she has overcome much of it by recognizing that rooms full of accomplished people include her for the unique value she brings. Her Niche: Event Logistics and Stakeholder Experience Beth specializes in strategy-driven events for nonprofits, associations, and foundations. Her work spans the entire United States and extends into Canada. She builds long-term partnerships, guiding organizations from pre-event strategy to post-event analysis and year-over-year improvement. Her philosophy is that events must both inspire and deliver measurable results because inspiration without outcomes means the event did not achieve its purpose. How She Advises Clients and Protects Their Vision Beth enjoys creative ideation but also brings realism to her work. She helps clients distinguish between dreams and feasibility and is not afraid to say when plans, timelines, resources, or goals do not align well. Her guidance prevents budget issues, poor attendance, sponsor shortages, and rushed events that fail to achieve their intended impact. She sees her role as equal parts strategist, realist, and protector of long-term outcomes. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Beth Lawrence On her website LinkedIn

We are truly honored to speak with Kate Patay today. Kate is a true leader in our industry who excels professionally and consistently gives back in meaningful ways. She is a media engagement strategist, event design and production expert, international speaker, mentor, connector, and travel enthusiast who serves as the Vice President of Global Engagement at Terramar, a DCM company, and chairwoman of the SEARCH Foundation. She is also a proud Swiftie! Stay tuned to hear about her remarkable journey and the insights she's gained along the way. Kate's Path Into the Events Industry Kate stumbled into the events world expecting to pursue a different career, but quickly realized that the work was in her blood. She began in food and beverage, moved through catering, hotels, and vendor roles, and ultimately launched her own firm, where she specialized in strategy and growth for small businesses and built a trusted global network. After collaborating with Terramar for years, the company invited her to join the team. The role aligned perfectly with her values, and three-and-a-half years later, she still feels deeply fulfilled, energized, and grateful to be part of a team that makes her smile every day. Joining Terramar Kate emphasizes the importance of values alignment, shared commitment to service, and honest conversations about expectations. For her, the biggest hurdle was navigating change management, but she believes that when change is rooted in doing the right thing, people ultimately get on board. Embracing Change Growth only happens when we step beyond comfort and into uncertainty. Kate describes fear as a signal that something bigger is coming. She explains that transformation lives just beyond the point of discomfort. Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Journey Kate pushed for additional testing after receiving a clear mammogram. Doctors found two cancerous masses, leading to a double mastectomy and multiple follow-up surgeries due to complications, and a third surgery, which required traveling to a specialist with only 96 hours' notice. Thirteen days later, she stepped onto the IMEX stage to present. Her cancer is now clear, and she awaits final confirmation in January to officially begin her cancer-free countdown. Mindset, Support, and Self-Care Kate highlights the importance of putting yourself first. She encourages regular checkups, not dismissing symptoms, and making your health a priority. Support systems mattered a lot to her in her healing process, with colleagues who protected her privacy, stepped in to help, and ensured her work never suffered while she recovered. The SEARCH Foundation The SEARCH Foundation supports meeting and event professionals experiencing catastrophic illness, natural disasters, and other crises. The foundation began in 1997 during the AIDS epidemic and has expanded globally. Kate has served as board chair for six years and has recommitted for a third term because she sees so many lives transformed by this safety net. SEARCH is funded entirely by industry professionals, from monthly donors to students contributing just a few dollars. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Kate Patay SEARCH Foundation Terramar SEARCH Foundation on Instagram Terramar on LinkedIn Email Kate: kate@katepatay.com or kate@terramardmc.com

Today, we are thrilled to welcome entrepreneur, philosopher, writer, podcaster, and author Robert Glazer as our guest. Robert truly understands how values shape company culture. In his latest book, The Compass Within, he explores how values guide both personal and organizational success. Join us to discover how strong values lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity. Robert's Journey Robert founded Acceleration Partners, a global partner marketing agency that became one of the first fully remote companies long before remote work became common. What began as an internal email to his team evolved into Friday Forward, a leadership newsletter with more than 120,000 readers. Writing became a parallel career for him, leading to several bestselling books, including his latest, a parable on personal and company values. As he stepped back from day-to-day business operations, Robert focused on helping people and organizations build capacity, lead better, and live by their core values. His mission now centers on leadership as the most powerful lever for meaningful change in companies and society. Core Values Robert developed a framework to help people identify personal core values. His philosophy is that people lead from their values consciously or unconsciously, so awareness is essential. The framework grew into a course and then a book, designed to make the process engaging and practical. Values are actionable principles, not one-word ideals, and their opposites should trigger discomfort to confirm their importance. Teaching Leadership Through Fiction Robert notes that leadership problems often arise from misaligned incentives rather than malice. In his latest book, The Compass Within, he combines fiction and nonfiction to make lessons relatable. Through the story, readers can see how misaligned values create frustration at work and in relationships. The main character embarks on a journey of self-discovery to reveal how value alignment influences experiences. Alignment in Work and Relationships Shared values need not be identical, but they must be harmonious. Misaligned value systems create constant conflict. Early life experiences shape our core beliefs, which can later clash with or harmonize with those of others. In any setting, alignment drives trust and long-term success. Without it, relationships and organizations often fracture. Competition and External Validation Robert understands how some cultures pressure people into constant competition and comparison. Many people never stop to ask why they do what they do. True contentment begins when people stop chasing external approval and start to define success by their own standards. Building The Compass Within The Compass Within offers a step-by-step approach for discovering actionable values. It begins with six reflective questions that explore life's highs and lows. Patterns in those answers form value statements that guide decisions. The opposite test (if the opposite of a value makes you cringe, it's genuine) ensures the values are real. Creating a Values-Based Company Culture The company culture of entrepreneurs should evolve from the founder's authentic values, and must be collective. Effective values are actionable and measurable, not vague statements like "Integrity" or "Diversity." They should naturally arise in conversation and be evident in daily organizational behavior. Writing, Leadership, and Legacy Robert believes that leadership lies at the root of organizational change. Companies do not act. People do. When leaders understand and embody their values, their organizations thrive. His writing reflects his mission, offering practical tools to help people lead with authenticity and purpose. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Robert Glazer On his website LinkedIn

We are excited to welcome clinical psychologist and USA Today bestselling author, Dr. Chloe Carmichael, today. Chloe wrote Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety, which Deepak Chopra endorsed. Her latest book, Can I Say That? Why Free Speech Matters and How to Use It Fearlessly prompted Eric to reach out to her. That book received recommendations from Dr. Phil McGraw, Dr. Drew Pinsky, Patrick Bet-David, and various other thought leaders. She joins us to explore mental health, the importance of free speech, and what goes on within corporate organizations. Chloe's Journey Dr. Chloe Carmichael built her career as a clinical psychologist, author, and speaker, blending academic insight with real-world experience. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and has a private practice in New York City. Her background as a yoga teacher and her fascination with mindfulness shaped her approach to emotional regulation and performance, and she has worked extensively with high-achieving professionals. Over time, her work has evolved from traditional therapy into coaching, corporate consulting, and thought leadership, bridging the gap between psychology and practical success strategies. Productive Anxiety Chloe explains that anxiety, when understood and managed, can be a powerful motivational tool because the physiological arousal associated with anxiety is similar to the energy needed for preparation and action. Productive anxiety becomes maladaptive only when paired with avoidance or self-criticism. Instead of suppressing it, people can use that energy to plan, anticipate, and perform better. Recognizing that anxiety is a natural human function helps people shift from fear-based reactions to constructive responses. High Achievers and Self-Regulation When anxiety gets reframed as preparation rather than panic, it becomes an ally in achieving excellence. High performers often experience elevated anxiety because they set ambitious goals and carry heavy responsibilities. The challenge is not to eliminate anxiety but to regulate it. Practices such as self-awareness, structured planning, and mindfulness help individuals to harness their natural drive without burning out. Emotional Awareness Tuning into emotional cues can offer valuable feedback rather than distractions. Emotions signal what matters most, and ignoring them can lead to misalignment or poor decisions. Identifying the underlying messages (fear of failure, desire for growth, or need for control) allows people to channel those feelings into intentional actions rather than reactive ones. Boundaries and Self-Validation Boundaries are essential, especially for those who seek their validation externally. Many high achievers rely on the approval of others, which can increase anxiety when feedback is inconsistent or negative. Chloe encourages the development of self-validation skills and acknowledging one's own efforts and internal standards. Setting emotional and time boundaries helps maintain focus, energy, and confidence, even in competitive environments. Practical Tools for Managing Anxiety Chloe offers practical strategies for turning anxiety into productive energy. She recommends setting clear, achievable goals and using visualization to stay focused on positive outcomes. Scheduling dedicated worry time helps contain overthinking, while separating problem-solving from emotional processing prevents downward spiraling. Reframing self-talk from "what if I fail?" to "how can I prepare?" will turn fear into action and build confidence. Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques Mindfulness is essential for calming the nervous system and being grounded. Deep breathing, guided meditation, and journaling slow the mind and create distance from anxious thoughts. Chloe points out that mindfulness does not eliminate anxiety. It helps the mind engage with it objectively, cultivating emotional resilience and better decision-making. Leadership and Psychological Safety Chloe highlights the importance of creating environments where people feel psychologically safe to express their ideas and concerns. Leaders who model calm, reflective behavior encourage teams to think critically rather than reacting emotionally. Leaders will also benefit from acknowledging their own anxieties, as that normalizes stress and builds trust within teams. Balancing Ambition and Well-being Ambition and mental health are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Sustainable success requires the balancing of drive with recovery. High performers should schedule rest, physical movement, and meaningful personal time to prevent chronic stress. Integrating Psychology into Everyday Life Chloe views psychology as a proactive skill set that helps people live with intention rather than reaction. She encourages listeners to use psychological tools in everyday life, not just in therapy or moments of crisis. Emotional tracking, mindfulness, and self-compassion can strengthen relationships, sharpen leadership, and boost creativity. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Dr. Chloe Carmichael On LinkedIn

Today, we are delighted to welcome Lisa Gregory, the founder and CEO of Gregory Event Services. As a dynamic entrepreneur with an impressive career, Lisa understands the highs and challenges of running a business, from sleepless nights to navigating the unexpected with determination and grace. She joins us today to share her journey, insights, and lessons learned along the way. Lisa's Journey Fueled by a passion for purposeful leadership and continuous growth, Lisa built her career in the events and marketing industry. Her company initially focused on events and marketing, but is rapidly evolving into an AI-driven business. Guided by a commitment to innovation, culture, and purposeful service, Lisa has grown her global team across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. She balances strategic vision with a hands-on approach, emphasizing culture fit, skill alignment, and sustainable growth. She also founded the Event Professionals Network, a free global community connecting over 900 event professionals to share knowledge and support one another. The Power of Complementary Teams Lisa believes that a successful business requires a team with complementary skill sets rather than one entrepreneur trying to do everything alone. While many entrepreneurs struggle to delegate due to financial or ego-related fears, she stresses that sustainable growth comes from shared responsibility and clear role definitions. Her success grew from learning to focus on her strengths while trusting others to manage daily operations. Transitioning to an AI-Driven Future Lisa's company is transforming from a traditional events firm into one that actively integrates artificial intelligence. She urges professionals to embrace AI responsibly and purposefully to stay relevant. The goal is to use AI to enhance strategy, not replace human creativity or connection. Why Human Connection Still Matters While AI is revolutionizing workflows, Lisa points out that human connection remains irreplaceable. The most meaningful industry trends are toward smaller, regional events that prioritize face-to-face interaction, shared learning, and relationship building. She views this era as one where people crave authenticity, trusting personal experiences over digital marketing claims. Building a Strong Global Culture Lisa's leadership philosophy centers on culture fit as the foundation of a thriving company. The first step in her hiring process is to continuously assess alignment with company values before evaluating skills. Her employees undergo skill-based training and are carefully matched to clients based on personality and expertise. Continuous feedback and alignment calls keep everyone on track, fostering transparency and mutual respect across diverse teams and time zones. Growth Through Purposeful Leadership Lisa is committed to scaling at a pace that supports both excellence and employee well-being. Her company now includes an operations manager, a chief of staff, and an executive assistant to ensure accountability and maintain quality. She is willing to decline projects if her team cannot deliver 110% and prioritize sustainability over expansion. Elevating Customer Service Customer satisfaction is central to Lisa's business model. Her company uses NPS scores, client surveys, and monthly check-ins to assess performance. Every feedback cycle is built into the client's project schedule to ensure accountability. She views exceptional service and strong client relationships as the most powerful engines for long-term growth. Looking Ahead In the next decade, Lisa envisions stepping back from the center of her company while strengthening middle management and refining internal systems. Her ultimate goal is to remain in the experiential and production side of the business, possibly integrating AI into large-scale creative projects. She hopes to sustain a culture that balances ambition with team health, reducing burnout and promoting longevity in the events industry. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Lisa Gregory Gregory Event Services On LinkedIn

We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the incredible Iain Morrison today! Iain has spent years working behind the scenes to help global superstars bring their spectacular shows to Australian audiences. Several years ago, he launched his company, The Imagination Collaborative. He joins us today to share his journey and insights from his remarkable career in the events industry. Iain's Journey Iain built his career behind the scenes of the world's biggest concerts, working with global stars like Pink, the Foo Fighters, U2, Taylor Swift, and Adele. After decades of running large-scale productions and managing hundreds of people, he founded The Imagination Collaborative, a company that uses advanced digital technology to plan and visualize major events. His shift from being constantly on the road to leading a remote, tech-driven business reflects both the evolution of the events industry and his own desire for a balanced, meaningful lifestyle. Precision and Planning with Digital Technology Iain's company uses 3D modeling and digital twins to map out event infrastructure with extreme accuracy, reducing costs, saving labor, and improving efficiency, especially for large outdoor venues where terrains vary. Shifting from Onsite Chaos to Remote Work After years of managing massive productions, Iain now relies on digital connectivity, operating primarily from his home. While he appreciates the quiet and flexibility, he sometimes misses the high-energy, in-person collaboration of event sites. To stay connected, he plans to visit more live events this year and reconnect with the colleagues who have been part of his professional life for decades. Balancing Work and Lifestyle Iain designed his business around the life he chose to live, not the other way around. He and his wife have embraced remote work, even traveling across Australia in their caravan while managing operations. For them, success means sustainability, freedom, and presence rather than building the biggest company possible. Life Lessons and Priorities The sudden passing of a colleague prompted Iain to reassess his priorities. He realized that waiting to enjoy life after years of overwork is a dangerous gamble. He now focuses on being fully present, spending time with family —especially his new grandchild —and creating a business that supports a fulfilling life rather than consuming it. Defining Success on His Own Terms The Imagination Collaborative is thriving financially and creatively, but Iain measures his success by its alignment with his values. His goal for the next decade is to collaborate with people who are passionate about technology and purpose-driven event creation. For him, growth is secondary to quality of life, enjoyment, and meaningful relationships. Lessons from a Year of Growth Iain admits that the first year of running his company was exhausting due to global clients and time zone challenges. Yet it taught him valuable lessons about boundaries, clarity, and vision. He and his wife now focus on refining their goals and using what they have learned to make their second year more balanced and efficient. Technology and a Changing Industry Iain credits modern connectivity, particularly innovations like Starlink, for making his lifestyle possible. With advanced processing power, cloud rendering, and real-time visualization tools, remote collaboration has become seamless. Iain believes his generation has been fortunate to witness and adapt to technological revolutions that continually open new opportunities. The Future of The Imagination Collaborative Looking ahead, Iain intends to continue working with top venues and event teams worldwide, helping them visualize and deliver world-class experiences. His priority is helping the right people create the right events while maintaining integrity and staying true to his values of balance and authenticity. Bio: Iain Morrison Iain Morrison is the straight-talking CEO of The Imagination Collaborative and one of the most trusted voices in the global event industry. With over 35 years of experience leading large-scale productions, Iain is known for his humor, honesty, and no-nonsense insights on creativity, leadership, and burnout. Ranked in the Top 1% of LinkedIn creators worldwide, his posts reach thousands who appreciate his blend of real talk, empathy, and practical wisdom. Iain's influence spans brands like Adobe, Canva, and Zoom, making him a leading advocate for authentic, human-centered innovation in event management. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Iain Morrison On LinkedIn The Imagination Collaborative

We are thrilled to welcome Neen James, the expert on luxury experiences, back on the show today! Neen is currently releasing her fourth book, Exceptional Experiences. She is one of the brightest and most data-driven thinkers in the events business, and everything she does and writes about is grounded in research. She joins us today to share her insights on luxury experiences and discuss Mark Cuban's thought-provoking notion that AI will encourage people to connect more in-person and enjoy exceptional human experiences more than ever before. Neen's Journey Neen began her career exploring how attention, focus, and productivity impact leadership and influence. Over time, her work expanded to helping leaders design exceptional experiences through intentional thoughtfulness. After years of speaking and consulting around the world, she shifted her focus to understanding what makes interactions unforgettable, drawing inspiration from luxury brands and their mastery of creating value and connection. That research now informs her mission to help organizations and individuals apply those principles to elevate everyday business and leadership. The Power of Attention in Leadership and Business Attention is the new currency of leadership. Intentional focus on people, priorities, and productivity drives engagement and results. Leaders who are fully present notice others, allowing them to build stronger connections and evoke more trust and influence. Why Focus and Clarity Matter Neen believes that distraction is one of the biggest productivity killers in modern business. She likes to clarify her daily priorities, align her actions with her goals, and remove any unnecessary noise. Her approach to productivity is about doing what matters most rather than doing more. By setting boundaries around attention, professionals can increase both efficiency and fulfillment. The Role of Connection and Belonging People crave genuine connection, whether in business meetings or personal interactions. Neen explains that even small gestures of recognition can have a profound emotional impact. When leaders personalize communication and make individuals feel part of something meaningful, it creates loyalty and emotional investment that no financial incentive can replace. Creativity and Customization in Event Design Neen has observed a growing shift toward personalization and creativity within the meetings and events industry. Instead of over-catering or offering generic experiences, event planners are focusing on customized, high-quality touches. Rethinking Corporate Gifting Neen challenges traditional corporate gifting practices, urging professionals to move away from branded merchandise and instead offer experiences or gifts that truly delight recipients. Leveraging AI Neen describes how artificial intelligence can enhance personalization and streamline business operations. She prefers using AI tools like Claude and Fathom to summarize meetings, craft custom proposals, and gather insights about clients before meetings. By combining AI's analytical capabilities with genuine empathy, professionals can deepen relationships and deliver more meaningful experiences. Systemized Thoughtfulness Neen's concept of systemized thoughtfulness involves using technology to remember and act on the small details that make people feel special. She illustrates how simple, inexpensive gestures can create lifelong loyalty. The key, she says, is using data not to automate relationships, but to enhance human connection. Integrating AI Into the Guest Experience Neen encourages organizations to leverage AI for every phase of guest engagement. Beforehand, AI can help personalize outreach; during, it can enhance service customization; afterward, it can collect insights and generate detailed ROI reports. This full-circle approach can help teams to continually refine their experiences while maintaining the warmth of a personal touch. Embracing Change and Creative Problem Solving Neen calls for boldness and experimentation in the hospitality and events industries. With rising costs and changing expectations, she urges professionals to collaborate across departments, rethink menus, and adopt sustainable, creative solutions. Humanity as the Ultimate Luxury For Neen, luxury is not about price. It's about care, personalization, and emotional resonance. Whether it's a handwritten note, a remembered detail, or a perfectly timed mocktail, luxury lives in the moments that make guests feel seen and special. While technology can support this, it should never replace it. The goal, she insists, is to use AI to be more human, not less. Bio: Neen James is a leadership strategist, dynamic keynote speaker, and the author of Folding Time, Attention Pays, and the upcoming Exceptional Experiences. With boundless energy, quick wit, and actionable insights, she serves as a confidante to C-suite leaders, helping them elevate experiences and achieve greater focus, communication, and influence. Recently appointed to the board of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, James has been named one of the Top 30 Leadership Speakers by Global Gurus multiple years in a row for her work with some of the world's most prestigious brands, including Viacom, Comcast, Virtuoso Travel, Four Seasons, and the FBI. She empowers individuals to prioritize what matters most so they can create exceptional experiences that drive results and foster lasting connections. Originally from Australia, James is now living her best life in Tampa, Florida. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Neen James On her website Instagram LinkedIn

We are delighted to welcome the inspiring Sepideh Eivazi as our guest today. Sepideh is on a mission to move everyone she encounters, leaving them changed and feeling seen. She is a 2025 inductee of the Smart Meetings Hall of Fame, a Smart Speaker, a 40 Under 40 honoree, and a 2025 Meetings Today Trendsetter. Her powerful TED Talk, Breath as an Act of Rebellion, has inspired audiences around the world. She joins us today to share her journey and insights. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any plant medicine Sepideh's Journey Sepideh Eivazi grew up in Iran, navigating a life constrained by societal and political limitations. At the age of 20, she moved to the United States with her younger sister in search of freedom and opportunity. Starting from scratch, she worked in hospitality in Las Vegas, learning about the event industry from the ground up, embracing mentorship, and observing inspiring and cautionary examples of leadership. Eventually, she relocated to Los Angeles, where she joined Elevated Meeting Solutions and later launched her own wellness platform, Dawn of the Earth, which integrates tea culture, somatic breathwork, nervous system regulation, and psychedelic integration practices. Her work focuses on conscious leadership, healing trauma, and empowering others, bridging both Eastern and Western wellness traditions. Freedom and Feminism Sepideh shares the challenges Iranian women face under restrictive societal norms, particularly the compulsory wearing of a veil. She emphasizes the importance of personal choice, freedom, and human qualities over appearance or imposed rules. Singing as Healing and Expression Reclaiming her voice through singing became an emotional and symbolic act of empowerment, connecting Sepideh to her heritage and generations of suppressed women in Iran. She views singing as both a personal healing practice and a form of standing for those who cannot freely express themselves. Mentorship and Community Sepideh credits several mentors and supportive figures for her growth. She emphasizes the importance of showing up for others, paying support forward, and nurturing a sense of community. Leading Beyond Burnout Burnout is a result of prolonged stress, fight, flight, freeze responses, and neglecting emotional and physical health. Sepideh utilizes somatic breathwork to help leaders and employees regulate their nervous systems, process suppressed emotions, and create safe spaces for vulnerability and healing. She explains that burnout is preventable when organizations and individuals prioritize conscious, holistic self-care. Plant Medicine and Integration Sepideh views plant medicine as a tool for mental health and emotional integration, highlighting it as a catalyst for self-awareness rather than a recreational high. She works with clients to integrate insights from plant medicine into daily life, cultivating emotional intelligence, forgiveness, and presence. Her approach combines body awareness, somatic practices, and intentional reflections. Performance, Presence, and Ritual In high-performance industries, constant productivity and measurement can undermine confidence and well-being. Sepideh advocates rituals and presence-based practices, such as mindful breathing, sensory activation, and slowing down during daily activities, to reconnect with oneself and cultivate sustainable performance without anxiety or self-judgment. Future Vision and Celebration Sepideh measures success through progress and the ability to give back to humanity. She values learning, growth, and curiosity over rigid goals or timelines, viewing each step forward as a meaningful achievement for herself and others. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Sepideh Eivazi On her website LinkedIn Sepideh's TED Talk, Breath as an Act of Rebellion