The Business of Meetings

The Business of Meetings – Episode 197 – Shalom Motherfu**er with Eitan Chitayat We are honored to have Eitan Chitayat joining us today! Eitan spent many years in advertising and now owns a branding agency. In our conversation today, Eitan discusses his journey in advertising and the big names that have influenced him and offers insights into branding. He also shares his thoughts on leadership, courage, and how to make the world a better place. Stay tuned for a unique and thought-provoking discussion with Eitan Chitayat! Connect with Eric Rozenberg LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Connect with Eitan Chitayat On his website: Natie Branding Agency LinkedIn   

The Business of Meetings – Episode 196 - Prepare to Unlock a Year of Unparalleled Success!  Would you like to learn a magic formula that will ensure you pave the year ahead with success? Eric shares a strategy today that will guarantee you stay on track for prosperity in the coming year. In today’s episode, he explains how he organizes his time, sets his priorities, and, most significantly, holds himself accountable for the tasks he undertakes. Join us today to learn about Eric’s game-changing formula, designed to sidestep all the pitfalls and pave the way for a truly successful and fulfilling year. Stay tuned for a conversation packed with insights and practical tips! Defining Your Ideal Week  To kickstart a successful year, begin by planning your ideal week. You can use tools like Excel or any other planning software to create a one-page overview of your week, from morning routines to business priorities and personal activities. Blocking out dedicated time for everything you have to do will ensure your week is balanced, purposeful, and aligned with your goals. Analyzing Time and Delegating Effectively  Next, you need to look at the critical aspect of time management. Eric suggests keeping a detailed record of all your daily activities for a few weeks and categorizing them into “do," "delegate," and "stop" columns. That will help you identify any areas that require improvement, let you delegate tasks efficiently, give you the time to focus on essential activities, and eliminate all the non-productive elements. Setting and Reviewing Goals To avoid setting and forgetting your yearly goals, Eric emphasizes the importance of doing regular reviews. Breaking down your long-term goals into quarterly milestones will ensure you stay aligned with your objectives. Adopting this approach will facilitate your smooth transition from yearly planning to monthly, weekly, and daily planning, making your goals more manageable and achievable. Time Blocking and Priority Reflection  It is essential to incorporate your goals into your calendar. All your commitments, whether personal or professional, should be scheduled to reflect your priorities accurately. The strategy of time blocking will ensure that crucial tasks are allocated the necessary attention and do not get lost in the hustle and bustle of your daily activities. Daily Planning  Reviewing your schedule for the upcoming week every Sunday will help you to facilitate your daily planning. You can also identify three crucial tasks each evening that will constitute a win for the next day when accomplished.  Accountability Eric emphasizes the importance of being accountable and explains that most successful individuals have a coach or an accountability partner. Checking in regularly with an accountability buddy will ensure you get the support and motivation you need to stay on track and achieve your goals. The roadmap to a successful year involves a strategic blend of weekly planning, effective time management, goal setting, time blocking, and daily accountability.  Eric’s comprehensive approach will lead you to a more purposeful and fulfilling year. Bio Eric Rozenberg Eric Rozenberg is an acquisition entrepreneur, trusted advisor, speaker, podcaster, and two-time Amazon bestselling author. Eric has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their business better. His purpose is to inspire people with integrity and honesty, help them take action, get results, and develop their businesses and their lives. For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award-winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches, and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. He believes organizations must create meetings and events that are not only breathtakingly memorable but also bring corporate strategies to life and amplify team motivation/performance. His podcast, "The Business of Meetings", is the first podcast in the Meetings and Events Industry dedicated to business owners. Every Tuesday, listeners learn something new they can apply in their business and/or get inspired by amazing guests. His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the Why of a meeting. It has been endorsed by 20 of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds and helps professionals to position themselves as a strategic partner. His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to My Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. Eric is a current member of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) and The Strategic Forum. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Demoucelle Parkinson Foundation in Belgium and was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meetings Professional International (MPI), the largest professional association in the Meetings and Events Industry. He lives in Boca Raton with his wife Elsa, their three daughters Naomi, Shirel, and Tilia, and their dog Simba. Connect with him at www.linkedin.com/in/ericrozenberg. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn On Facebook On Instagram On Website  

The Business of Meetings – Episode 195 - Differentiation: The Golden Key to Your Success with Mark Levy We are delighted to have Mark Levy joining us today to discuss differentiation. Mark is the differentiation expert! He has worked with big names like Simon Sinek and Marshall Goldsmith, and he is the author of Accidental Genius, a book about using writing to stimulate great ideas, available in 11 languages. Mark also created a magic show that got rated even higher than Hamilton in New York! Join us to learn how to differentiate yourself through Mark's valuable insights and colorful stories. Bio: Mark Levy Mark Levy is a differentiation expert. The ideas Mark and his clients have created have been discussed and used by hundreds of millions worldwide. His clients include Simon Sinek (of "Start With Why" fame), the former head of the strategy unit of the Harvard Business School, and the founder of the famed cult TV show, "Mystery Science Theater 3000.” Mark is also a magician. A show he co-created, Chamber Magic, has run in New York City for 21 years and is ranked by TripAdvisor as the city's #1 live show, rated higher than even the musical “Hamilton." Mark has written for The New York Times, and one of his books, Accidental Genius: Using Writing to Generate Your Best Ideas, Insight, and Content has been translated into eleven languages. He can be reached at LevyInnovation.com. Mark's Journey Mark has had diverse experiences throughout his journey to becoming an expert in differentiation. He honed his skills as the former director of the third-largest book wholesaler globally, making over 25,000 pitches and selling over a billion dollars worth of books. Mark also gained a unique perspective on business strategies as a magician. He has worked with influential figures, like the former CEO of Popeyes and the President of UPS, where he combined his expertise in sales, magic, and business strategy. Logic and Illogic in Differentiation There are often pitfalls in excessive logical thinking because logic can sometimes lack the innovative edge that sets visionaries apart. Mark uses examples like Wikipedia and Red Bull to demonstrate how illogical approaches can defy all expectations and lead to groundbreaking success. He encourages business owners to balance logic and illogic when looking to differentiate themselves to stand out in the marketplace. Differentiation Process Mark outlines a four-step approach: Phase 1: This is the Schlitz beer phase. It involves discovery and the collection of ideas and insights Phase 2: The Barbie phase focuses on finding associations and meanings within all the collected material  Phase 3: The Captain Inferno phase entails crafting a compelling story around your chosen point of differentiation  Phase 4: The Philip Crosby stage is where you consistently practice and implement your differentiation  Mark underscores the importance of a thorough discovery phase because it allows exploration and creativity before you narrow things down to a compelling point of differentiation. Crafting a Differentiated Elevator Pitch To craft an elevator speech that effectively communicates your differentiation, Mark emphasizes the importance of starting the conversation in the universe of the listener by addressing a common problem or need. He advises against being too fancy initially and instead suggests revealing the category of your work or business. Then, you highlight your unique approach to clarify that you operate differently. The key is to engage the listener by addressing their concerns before introducing your distinctive elements. That will make them more receptive to your differentiation. The Schlitz Beer Story Claude Hopkins, a renowned advertising man, transformed the fortunes of the Schlitz Brewery by highlighting seemingly ordinary processes, like a 3,000-foot artesian well and triple steam cleaning, turning them into a compelling narrative. The story underscores the idea that what may seem run-of-the-mill to a business can be extraordinary in the marketplace if effectively communicated. The Barbie Phase For the Barbie Phase, Mark drew inspiration from the strategy of Richard Dickson, the CEO of Mattel, to move beyond the toy and game business into the pop culture business. The Barbie Phase is about committing to just one single idea and going all in on it. In exploring various aspects and potential representations of their business, companies can uncover unique angles that set them apart like Mattel did when they approached the Barbie movie, transforming a toy brand into a cultural phenomenon. The Importance of Exploring Outside Your Industry Mark suggests exploring businesses and brands outside of your industry. By observing and analyzing what different brands are doing, even in unrelated fields, you can gain valuable insights into differentiation strategies. Advice for Continuous Learning and Inspiration Mark advises business owners to actively observe and analyze brands outside their industry, noting differences and considering how the strategies they see might get applied in their businesses. He emphasizes the importance of business owners learning continuously and drawing inspiration from diverse sources to stay innovative and differentiate themselves from others in their fields. Connect with Eric LinkedIn Facebook Instagram WebsiteConnect with Mark Levy Website LinkedIn Email Mark Accidental Genius, by Mark Levy

The Business of Meetings – Episode 194 – Two Easy Ways to Increase Your Sales with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric is excited to share two simple yet effective strategies to boost your sales substantially. He will also explain how to fortify your pipeline and refine your pitch.  These strategies are not only straightforward but also incredibly efficient. Get ready to reap the rewards after using these simple yet powerful methods for transforming your sales approach! Becoming a Strategic Adviser Positioning yourself as a strategic adviser rather than a logistical expert can be a game-changer. Becoming a strategic partner will allow you to demonstrate your power of understanding and address your clients’ core business concerns. Personal Accountability for Sales Success Personal accountability plays a pivotal role in increasing sales. During a conference, Eric noticed a surprising need for more commitment among sales professionals toward dedicating just one hour daily for prospecting and client outreach. One hour per day equates to reaching out to approximately 800 people annually. Your calendar reflects your priorities, and by making this small and impactful commitment, you position yourself to expand your network and increase business significantly. It is a straightforward strategy, yet it often gets neglected. Implementing just one hour each day of focused effort will allow you a proactive stance in shaping your success and positively impacting your sales. Two Fundamental Principles Success in sales depends on two fundamental principles: Being a strategic adviser  Maintaining personal accountability  Take Action Now You can begin integrating these simple and effective strategies into your approach immediately. Understanding and addressing your clients' core business needs and committing just one hour daily to outreach are tangible and actionable steps toward enhancing your sales.  Remember, success is within your control, and there is no better time than now to start implementing these strategies and witnessing the positive impact on your business.  If you have any questions, feel free to reach out! Bio Eric Rozenberg Eric Rozenberg is an acquisition entrepreneur, trusted advisor, speaker, podcaster, and two-time Amazon bestselling author. Eric has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their business better. His purpose is to inspire people with integrity and honesty, help them take action, get results, and develop their businesses and their lives. For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award-winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches, and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. He believes organizations must create meetings and events that are not only breathtakingly memorable but which bring corporate strategies to life and amplify team motivation/performance. His podcast, "The Business of Meetings", is the first podcast in the Meetings & Events Industry dedicated to business owners. Every Tuesday, listeners learn something new they can apply in their business and/or get inspired by amazing guests. His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the Why of a meeting. It has been endorsed by 20 of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds and helps professionals to position themselves as a strategic partner. His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to my Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. Eric is a current member of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) and The Strategic Forum. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Demoucelle Parkinson Foundation in Belgium and was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meetings Professional International (MPI), the largest professional association in the Meetings and Events Industry. He lives in Boca Raton with his wife Elsa, their three daughters Naomi, Shirel, and Tilia, and their dog Simba. Connect with him at www.linkedin.com/in/ericrozenberg. Connect with Eric On LinkedIn On Facebook On Instagram On Website

The Business of Meetings – Episode 193- Five Steps to Define Your Business Vision with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric shares a game-changing tool he uses for helping and advising people and coaching business owners. He used the same exercise to help him visualize and map out the future course of his current business. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible results and clarity of direction this process brings you when you put it into practice!  From Shock to a Life-Changing Vision In March 2020, during an annual retreat with his EO group, Eric recalls sitting around a campfire and experiencing the initial shock of sports cancellations due to the onset of COVID-19. Interestingly, the theme of the retreat was envisioning your life in 2030. Eric joined the retreat without any expectations and was pleasantly surprised by the life-changing nature of the process he learned there. Since then, he has often returned to the exercise and reflected on what he wrote during the retreat. A Comprehensive Approach to Shaping the Future of Your Business This exercise is a comprehensive yet straightforward approach to envisioning and shaping the future of your life and business. To make the process more practical, we have broken it down into five manageable steps and aimed it toward 2030: Start by identifying and categorizing the different areas of your life into seven different categories, like health, work, finances, fun, family, and personal development. Once you have defined those areas, rate your current standing within each area in terms of where you are today compared with where you would like to be in 2030, and then set goals for 2030. Create a visual representation, like a chart or graph, to further clarify your goals. Dedicate time to outlining three concrete actions you will take for each area within the next 12 months to propel yourself toward your 2030 goals. It could involve anything from lifestyle changes to professional development initiatives.  Make a list of questions based on how you want your life to be in 2030. Start by thinking about every area of your life, and then list a conclusive series of questions about all of those areas. The questions should cover where you want to live, your relationship aspirations, career achievements, legacy goals, and anything else you hope for. Take all the time you need to answer these questions. Choose a specific day or date in 2030 and describe it as a day in your life. Take all the time you need to vividly depict that day, incorporating all the details you gathered while answering the previous question. This part of the exercise may only take a few hours, or you may need multiple sessions to complete it. By approaching these five steps systematically, you can transform this seemingly overwhelming exercise into a practical and transformative tool for long-term planning. Remember, the key is to let the process unfold gradually. You may need to revisit the process from time to time, to refine your vision.  If you have any questions or need guidance, reach out to Eric. He will provide all the support you need.  If you embark on this journey enthusiastically, you will be astounded by all the remarkable results and newfound clarity it brings into your life and business. Bio Eric Rozenberg Eric Rozenberg is an acquisition entrepreneur, trusted advisor, speaker, podcaster, and two-time Amazon bestselling author. Eric has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their business better. His purpose is to inspire people with integrity and honesty, help them take action, get results, and develop their businesses and their lives. For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award- winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. He believes organizations must create meetings and events that are not only breathtakingly memorable but which bring corporate strategies to life and amplify team motivation/performance. His podcast, "The Business of Meetings", is the first podcast in the Meetings & Events Industry dedicated to business owners. Every Tuesday, listeners learn something new they can apply in their business and/or get inspired by amazing guests. His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the Why of a meeting. It has been endorsed by 20 of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds and helps professionals to position themselves as strategic partner. His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to my Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how, he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. Eric is a current member of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) and The Strategic Forum. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Demoucelle Parkinson Foundation in Belgium and was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meetings Professional International (MPI), the largest professional association in the Meetings and Events Industry. He lives in Boca Raton with his wife Elsa, their three daughters Naomi, Shirel, and Tilia, and their dog Simba. Connect with Eric LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website  

We are delighted to introduce the multi-talented Nir Zavaro as our guest on today’s episode!  After running his own agency, Nir decided to shift his business and go into teaching. With a multifaceted background working for various companies in sales, business development, novel writing, and teaching thousands of students, he has become an expert in communication and marketing. He is now launching his latest book, F*ck the Slides, which is about the art of storytelling and its persuasive power. Nir is a master of storytelling, marketing, and communication. He joins us today to discuss his new book and share his business insights.  Bio: Nir Zavaro is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker. He regularly tours the world and has a mission to help as many people as possible become better storytellers. Using his experience, storytelling fundamentals, and methods, he brings a fresh perspective on how to implement these into businesses, working with founders and CEOs in over 30 countries.  After a career in the retail industry serving in various roles, Nir founded Streetwise Creative Sales Agency specializing in outsourced marketing services. Founded in 2011, the company has worked with hundreds of brands.  Teaching is a major part of his passion. Since 2014, he has been a resident lecturer in leading universities and colleges, teaching regular courses about branding and marketing and new venture creation and sharing the concept of F*ck the Slides. He gives his time mentoring in several hubs and accelerators, helping companies improve their story, brand messaging, pitch decks, and marketing tactics. With two novels under his belt, F*ck the Slides is his third book, and the plan is to keep publishing many more, both novels and self-help books.  Nir has been involved in several businesses, from online to partner in several successful food and beverage businesses. Today, he sits on the advisory board for startups, supporting their brand and marketing efforts. He is meeting with entrepreneurs all over the world with his workshops about storytelling, branding, marketing, and sales. He has worked with Microsoft, Unilever, EO, Tech stars, and many others, helping them craft a better story. Nir’s Journey Nir's journey has been a blend of learning and teaching. As an avid reader, he thrives on acquiring new knowledge, believing in its transformative power. Over the past decade, he has shared his wisdom as an educator in universities and colleges. His book, F the Slides, conveys his two-year journey of refining his thinking. Nir published his book to empower people to learn independently, and it became a number one best-seller on Amazon for meetings and presentations. Even though he is not allowed to promote the book, he remains steadfast in his mission, driven by his belief in the value of his methodology, choosing to focus on being a product and marketing expert rather than a self-promoter.  The Power of Words and Emotions In the dynamics of language, the perceptions of some words can vary across cultures. Strong or profane words, in particular, carry different connotations in various parts of the world, eliciting diverse reactions when public figures use them. Nir emphasizes the importance of choosing words carefully to evoke emotions and capture the attention of an audience. Storytelling as a Skill Nir leveraged his journey of teaching startups to tell compelling stories and develop his concept of a trailer pitch. A trailer pitch is a concise three-minute presentation designed to ignite the curiosity and interest of an audience. Nir highlights the importance of preparing a powerful narrative to make an emotional impact while using visuals and keywords as effectively as possible. He compares the limitations of the traditional approach of bombarding presentations with information with the power of telling a well-crafted and enthralling story. From Startup Pitches to Keynote Presentations Nir’s methodology can be applied to many different presentation scenarios, including startup pitches, corporate meetings, and keynote presentations. He stresses the value of having a well-structured story and eliciting emotional audience resonance within all those contexts. He also highlights the importance of practicing and adapting to different presentation lengths. Connecting and Sharing through Language Nir explains that the power of storytelling goes beyond professional presentations and extends to everyday conversations, sales meetings, and more. He emphasizes the importance of creating an emotional connection with the audience, whether it is a potential investor, a class of students, or a large crowd at a keynote event. He encourages individuals to develop their storytelling skills because it enables them to inspire others while engaging with them. In Conclusion Nir highlights the profound impact words and storytelling have in communication and calls attention to the practical application of storytelling as a vital skill in various presentation contexts. The overarching theme throughout today's conversation is that words, when wielded effectively, can elicit emotions and make a lasting impression on the audience, ultimately influencing the success of any pitch or presentation. Connect with Eric LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Connect with Nir Zavaro Website YouTube Linkedin Instagram Medium F*uck the Slides Creating A Winning Pitch Using Storytelling  

We are delighted to have Darcy Luoma joining us today! Darcy is the author of the book Thoughtfully Fit. She has spent many years as a coach, training teams and organizations to work better and achieve thoughtful fitness in all their professional endeavors. Today's discussion is based on Darcy’s extensive research, coupled with her practical experience. She joins us to shed light on the principles and strategies that form the foundation of becoming thoughtfully fit within a business setting. Bio: Darcy Luoma, CPCC, CSP, MCC, BCC, ORSCC, MSOD is the CEO of Darcy Luoma Coaching & Consulting, a company that specializes in creating high-performing people and teams. She’s a sought-after coach and consultant who has worked in forty-eight industries, with more than five hundred organizations, impacting tens of thousands of leaders and employees. Darcy is the author of Thoughtfully Fit: Your Training Plan for Life & Business Success, published by Harper Horizon. Darcy has been coaching since 2004. She is one of America’s most highly credentialed coaches, having earned the prestigious Master Certified Coach certification from the International Coach Federation, a distinction held by less than 4% of coaches in the world. In 2012, the University of Wisconsin–Madison sought out Darcy to design its rigorous nine-month Certified Professional Coach training program. She has served variously as the program’s director, lead instructor, and director of training and quality assurance since its inception. Before Darcy founded her business in 2013, she served as the director of U.S. Senator Herb Kohl’s office for twelve years, did national advance work for the White House, worked for two presidential campaigns, and served as a trusted senior advisor to a governor. Darcy has a Master of Science in Organization Development from Pepperdine University. She received the distinguished Certified Speaking Professional™ award from the National Speakers Association, the largest speaker association in the world. She has spoken at more than five hundred events, in front of audiences ranging from five to five thousand. For the last twenty-five years, she has been an avid triathlete and Ironman. She uses her grit and determination in both her athletic and professional endeavors. Along with her favorite job being a mom of two energetic teenage daughters, Darcy enjoys adventure travel, yin yoga, kickboxing, spicy chai lattes, and afternoon naps. Darcy’s Story Darcy's professional path initially led her into government and politics, working for a U.S. Senator for over a decade. However, in 2012, the senator she worked for retired without seeking to be re-elected. Then, a pivotal question from her coach changed her life and encouraged her to envision a future without regrets, and Darcy made a bold leap into entrepreneurship. With the support of her then-husband, who took on the role of a full-time stay-at-home dad, she launched her own business in early 2013, defying the odds of small business failure. Then, in March 2016, her life took an unexpected turn when her husband was arrested for a serious crime. Darcy found herself navigating a tumultuous legal system, undergoing a divorce, and suddenly becoming a single mother with sole custody. Amidst all the chaos, she embarked on a journey of healing and recovery, later writing a book about her experiences. She subsequently learned that everyone has traumatic experiences and has challenges and hurdles to overcome in life. Overcoming Challenges with the Thoughtfully Fit Model After Darcy’s husband was arrested, she had to test her concept of being thoughtfully fit. She emphasizes the importance of pausing, thinking, and then acting when faced with challenges and encourages people to have faith that things will be okay, even when it seems impossible. She highlights the significance of training and practices to develop thoughtfully fit responses and actions when confronted with adversity. A Practical Technique to Help with Pausing Darcy believes that it is essential to practice Thoughtfully Fit skills to be able to respond effectively to challenges. However, it is often hard to pause, especially when we witness an injustice or feel conflicted about our values. Darcy explains that everyone has different default responses, like pausing, thinking, or acting when facing challenges. She points out that our strengths can become weaknesses when taken to the extreme. She shares a practical technique called the Pause Pinch for those who struggle with pausing. It involves squeezing a reflexology point to reduce tension and calm the nerves. Navigating Conflict in Teams   Most successful teams have healthy conflicts, so it is essential to create a psychologically safe environment where teams can navigate their conflicts, disagree with one another, and voice their opinions respectfully. Darcy highlights the significance of articulating and planning for a psychologically safe culture within a team. Encouraging open dialogue, respecting differing perspectives, and addressing the aftermath of decisions contribute to building a harmonious and productive team culture. Healthy Leadership A team leader must consider the opinions of team members, make decisions, and ask what is required for team members to support those decisions. Darcy emphasizes the importance of addressing concerns immediately to prevent post-meeting discussions and triangulation. She explains that leaders should lead, follow, or get out of the way when responding to situations and team dynamics. Handling Toxic Team Members Darcy stresses the importance of maintaining a healthy team environment and preventing the spread of toxic behavior. Managing toxic team members who resist change or cooperation despite coaching and conversations can be challenging. If all attempts to address their toxicity have failed, the best action is to part ways with the toxic individual because allowing their behavior to persist could negatively impact the morale and culture of the rest of the team. Maintaining Work-Life Balance and Prioritizing Self-Care Darcy maintains her sanity and a work-life balance as a business owner and mother by setting boundaries, minimizing extensive travel, and prioritizing her workouts. She explains that her commitment to regular exercise contributes to her overall well-being. She discovered the strategy of delegating tasks and recognizing her unique abilities to improve her work-life balance and productivity, allowing her to focus on things that only she can do as the CEO and Founder of her business. Connect with Eric LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Connect with Darcy Luoma Website LinkedIn Book Mentioned Thoughtfully Fit: Your Training Plan for Life & Business Success, by Darcy Luoma

The Business of Meetings – Episode 190 - A Life Leading the Exhibitions Industry with David Dubois We are delighted to be speaking with an industry legend today!  David DuBois has a career spanning several decades in the industry. He now holds the positions of CEO, President, and Publisher of the Exhibitor Group. In today’s enlightening conversation, David shares his insights on workforce development, the integration of AI, and the role of experiences for the future of our industry.  Bio: David DuBois is the president and CEO of Exhibitor Group and publisher of EXHIBITOR magazine. Before coming to Exhibitor, he was president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events®(IAEE). As IAEE’s president, DuBois was responsible for managing 25 full-time professional staff, producing the annual business operating plan and budget, overseeing the support of all meetings of governance units, leading business development, directing fundraising efforts, advocating for the industry and the organization’s members, and providing organizational leadership and strategic counsel to the board. He also served as the association’s representative within industry coalitions, partner organizations and strategic alliances. In 2019, DuBois was inducted into the Events Industry Council’s “Hall of Leaders,” one of the industry’s most prestigious honors. David’s journey David’s journey began when he graduated from college and declined his father's offer to buy out their family's dry cleaning business. Instead, he opted to join his friend in enrolling at the School of Hospitality Business at Michigan State University. That allowed him to spend thirteen years working for Sheraton and Ritz Carlton. Following that, he dedicated three decades to working with various organizations, including, PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association), MPI (Meeting Professionals International), Fort Worth Convention Visitors Bureau, and the International Association of Exhibitions and Events. He has enjoyed a blessed career, and has made many friends along the way. David’s Advice on Personal Branding David offers invaluable advice on the concept of personal branding. He explains that a resume catalogs personal achievements, and a CV outlines backgrounds, so it is essential to consider those integral components of your personal brand. He emphasizes that every action and decision we make contributes to our personal brand, ultimately shaping how others perceive and respect us. His central message is that personal branding is a crucial element in a professional journey, so it is essential to cultivate your brand consciously from the outset. Embracing AI for Industry Advancement AI has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the meeting and events industry. While acknowledging the need for caution, David also emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into various aspects of event planning and execution. He explains that AI can enhance decision-making because it offers a hybrid approach that combines human intelligence with machine intelligence, allowing businesses to remain innovative and competitive. Addressing Workforce Development Challenges Workforce development is a pressing concern in the events industry. With over a million job openings in the hospitality sector, finding and nurturing talent is paramount. David points out that success in the industry does not necessarily require a college education but rather a combination of intelligence, commitment, and people skills. He believes there is an urgent need for a strategic outreach program to help cultivate a robust workforce. Crafting Unforgettable Experiences The role of experiences in the events industry is a central theme of today’s conversation. Drawing on the wisdom of author Jim Gilmore and his Experience Economy, David introduces the concept of experiential marketing. He points out that creating memorable experiences has been a pivotal element in the industry for decades. Those experiences are not limited to trade shows and exhibitions but also extend to incentive trips and consumer shows. The world is teeming with options, and incentive trips and consumer shows provide unforgettable and valuable experiences that are the key to event success. Attendees leaving those experiences are eager to return because they foster engagement and reinforce a sense of community within organizations or associations. Balancing Human and Machine Intelligence While AI holds much promise for the future, a balance between human and machine intelligence is necessary. David explains that while AI can process vast amounts of data and provide insights, it should serve as a tool to enhance human judgment instead of replacing it. Maintaining the equilibrium between human and AI intelligence is essential for the growth of the industry and its progress. Designing Unique Incentive Trips Incentive trips are a prominent aspect of the events industry. A common misconception around incentive trips is that they are simply luxury getaways. That is why they should offer experiences that participants cannot easily replicate for themselves. Incentive trips should celebrate top performers and reward them with unique and memorable experiences. That approach serves to boost morale, motivation, and a sense of belonging, making incentive experiences a crucial element in the success of any company or organization.  The Art of Creating Unique and Memorable Experiences With his wealth of experience in the events industry, David understands that unique and memorable experiences form the essence of what makes an event truly special. He points out that events are about crafting moments that leave a lasting impact, foster community, and build long-standing connections. Connect with Eric On LinkedIn On Facebook On Instagram On Website Connect with David Dubois On Website On LinkedIn Books mentioned:  Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman   Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harare The Experience Economy by B. Joseph Pine and James H. Gilmore  

The Business of Meetings – Episode 189 – Empowering Women and Heart-Centered Leadership with Suzette Bravo  We are delighted to have Suzette Bravo joining us on the show today!  Suzette is an empowerment coach dedicated to helping women and young ladies journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. With a passion for nurturing heart-centered leadership, she guides individuals to unlock their inner potential and embrace authenticity and self-love as the cornerstones of their success. She is also an accomplished author and host of the inspiring new podcast, Bravo Unscripted.  Today’s conversation encompasses a wide range of topics, from personal growth and mental health awareness to the power of sharing stories and supporting women and girls through meaningful organizations. We hope you will enjoy listening to our conversation with Suzette Bravo. Stay tuned as we explore her insights and wisdom! Bio: Suzette Bravo stands at the intersection of heart-centered leadership and deep personal empowerment. As an Empowerment Coach, keynote speaker, accomplished author, and the spirited voice behind the Bravo Unscripted podcast, she is deeply committed to helping women leaders forge meaningful connections, both with themselves and with those they inspire. Drawing from her personal journey and the resilience she cultivated along the way, Suzette's coaching has been a guiding light for many, steering them toward a place of authentic leadership and genuine self-love. Holding distinctions as an Elementum Certified Master Coach and a John Maxwell Certified Coach and Speaker, Suzette's holistic approach combines elements of self-leadership, confidence cultivation, and self-love. With over 25 years of invaluable experience in leadership and team-building, her credentials are backed by numerous coaching certifications, a degree in Business and Psychology, and deep expertise in mindset optimization, gut-brain health, and resilience-building. Committed to continuous growth, she is currently immersed in studying leadership psychology at Cornell University. Behind the microphone, she hosts "Bravo Unscripted," a podcast that celebrates everyday heroes with extraordinary experiences. As an author, she has contributed to "Activate Your Life" and the bestselling book “BECOMING YOU,” where she shares insights alongside other esteemed coaches. A nationally recognized authority, Suzette explores themes such as Heart-Centered Leadership, Resilience, Authenticity, and Self-Love. Beyond coaching, she mentors teenage girls through the "Women of Tomorrow" initiative and serves as the esteemed Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the PACE Center for Girls. Suzette's mission remains steadfast: to empower accomplished women leaders, helping them recognize and harness their innate strengths and potential. She aims to nurture a deep sense of self-worth and confidence, allowing these leaders to elevate their impact and inspire their teams. Always cheering from the sidelines, Suzette is devoted to supporting individuals as they craft extraordinary lives brimming with purpose and passion. Suzette’s journey Suzette's transformative journey and her current work with women and girls stem from a deeply personal place. Having faced significant childhood trauma and struggled through high school and early adult years, she sees herself as a supporter of the woman and girl she used to be. Despite her tumultuous past, she managed to graduate high school on time, leading what appeared to be a well-functioning life. However, when her husband was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor in 2013 and passed away just eight days later, her world was shattered. That devastating loss forced her to confront the buried traumas of her past, leading to a profound healing journey. She embarked on a path of self-development and therapy, gradually shedding the I'm not good enough mindset she previously held. Through vulnerability and sharing her story with other women, she discovered the power of connection and healing. That realization led her to become an empowerment coach, focusing on supporting women and girls during their formative years to prevent the accumulation of toxic behaviors over time.  Suzette's journey demonstrates that within our stories and shared experiences, beautiful gifts and profound healing are waiting to be discovered. The Power of Taking Action  Suzette acknowledges the resistance she faced before when taking action. She explains that formulating ideas is necessary, but the real answers usually only emerge after action gets taken because that allows us to see how things unfold. Helping others and actively engaging in tasks can also be powerful ways to overcome difficulties and find a sense of purpose. Vulnerability and Mental Health Awareness Discussing vulnerability has become more accepted recently, but that has not always been the case. The power of having open conversations about mental health, seeking help when needed, and having a space where it is okay not to be okay should never be underestimated.  Loneliness It is essential to recognize loneliness as another significant mental health concern.  Self-Love  Suzette emphasizes the crucial role self-love plays in our ability to achieve goals and make sound decisions. Self-love can prevent self-sabotage and help us lead more fulfilling lives.  Catharsis Through Writing and Sharing Personal Stories Writing about traumatic experiences that happened in the past can be a cathartic process because it helps us to heal and gain a new perspective. Suzette participated in a collaborative book project and wrote a book, soon to be launched, where she delves into her personal journey and all the lessons she learned. The Bravo Unscripted Podcast  Suzette is excited about all the meaningful conversations she will have on her podcast, Bravo Unscripted. She will be featuring a diverse range of guests and their inspiring stories on the podcast, which focuses on connecting people and creating a movement where the shared stories and experiences of individuals can contribute to the healing and personal growth of others. Organizations Supporting Women and Young Ladies Suzette is involved with two organizations dedicated to empowering women and young girls. The PACE Center for Girls is an alternative school and counseling center in Florida, and Women of Tomorrow is an organization providing mentoring to high school girls. Both organizations focus on helping girls overcome challenges, find their greatness, and succeed in life. Connect with Eric LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Connect with Suzette Bravo Website LinkedIn Instagram Email Suzette: suzette@suzettebravo.com  Bravo Unscripted  

The Business of Meetings – Episode 188 – How to Measure Behavioral Changes and Learning and Development with Chris Taylor Today, we have the great pleasure of speaking with Chris Taylor, the Founder and CEO of Actionable.co, a company at the forefront of revolutionizing how organizations measure the impact of their investments in learning and development.  There are many parallels and commonalities between the meetings and events industry and the work Chris is doing. He joins us today to discuss some valuable insights revealed in a survey, share stories, and impart the wisdom he has amassed throughout his journey. Bio: Actionable.co CEO Chris Taylor works at the leading edge of learning sustainment and impact measurement for progressive organizations. Described once by a client as "a curious blend of Boomer and Gen-Y”, Chris is often called upon to act as a bridge and translator between generations at work, our new state of constant change, and the impact technology has on team dynamics. He brings a self-deprecating sense of humor and groundedness to his keynotes and workshops, ensuring attendees leave inspired and well-equipped to drive real change back in the workplace. Through Actionable.co, Chris brings empirical evidence and stories to illustrate how we measure ROI on corporate learning initiatives and the systems to ensure every program creates a lasting impact. He has personally consulted with over 400 organizations across six countries in almost any sector you can name. In addition to being a regular speaker for both public and private events, Chris has penned over 150 articles for dozens of publications, been quoted in The National Post, Toronto Star, and Globe & Mail, and hosted 90+ thought leader interviews for the iTunes #2 ranked business podcast, The 21st Century Workplace. Chris’s story Chris embarked on his first business venture at the age of twelve. Later, with dreams of becoming a film producer, he pursued a path in film school, only to realize its challenges. He then shifted his focus to sales and marketing, discovering a profound passion for sales leadership and the art of selling. In his early 20s, he successfully ran his own business, but success got the better of him, and his arrogance led to its downfall, motivating him to embark on a soul-searching journey to understand where he went wrong. That journey disillusioned him with how information got consumed conventionally and drove him to explore the transformative power of how a different learning application could lead to changes in behavior, eventually leading him to create a training company. His company eventually evolved into a licensing business and became a software company. Actionable.co satisfied his desire to quantify and improve how learning gets applied.  Chris currently resides in Toronto with his wife and two children and frequently divides his time between Canada and Australia. Key Insights from the Survey on Achieving Impact through Training From a recent survey focused on achieving impact through training programs, several pivotal insights emerged, emphasizing the critical interplay between content, context, and personal relevance in driving successful behavioral changes.  Content-Context Balance to Elevate Training Effectiveness One of the central findings of the survey underscored the significance of the content-context ratio within organizational training programs. Traditionally, many training sessions focus on cramming as much information as possible into a limited timeframe. However, that approach often needs to pay more attention to the essential element of context. The survey revealed that the emphasis has to shift in order for training to lead to changes in behavior.  More Effective Training Sessions Training sessions should not merely deliver information but also provide an environment where participants can reflect and answer the fundamental question, "So what?”. For optimal results, training initiatives should allocate a minimum of three to one, ideally, five to one, in terms of time spent on context building versus content delivery. By affording participants ample time and space for self-reflection, the training becomes more effective in promoting meaningful change. The Power of Personal Relevance Executives may articulate why a change is vital at a high organizational level. Yet, genuine motivation for change only arises when individuals discern how that change would affect them personally. So, a connection between training content and unique aspirations, challenges, and objectives of every individual is required to foster deeper motivation and commitment to change. Training programs should create an environment that encourages participants to reflect on and internalize the content. Leveraging Meetings and Events for Organizational Impact For professionals in the meetings and events industry, the survey findings emphasized the potential for meetings and events to become instrumental in driving organizational impact. Events can serve as valuable touchpoints for organizations, effectively communicating their goals and objectives. Including meaningful content-context discussions and ensuring that the content resonates personally with the attendees allows meetings and events to become catalysts for changing how people behave within organizations. Demonstrating the Long-Term Impact of Meetings and Events Incorporating training and learning components into events presents an opportunity for organizations to showcase their long-term impact. By tracking the behavior changes of event attendees over time, organizations can establish a direct link between the event and outcomes such as improved employee retention, increased sales, or enhanced leadership skills.  The Power of Defining Event Objectives Defining a clear objective for an event and measuring its progress allows organizations to ensure that their event will drive meaningful change and align with strategic priorities. Integrating Training Components into Events for More Impact By integrating training and learning components into events and measuring their long-term impact, organizations can demonstrate the value of those initiatives and justify investing in them. Smaller Cohorts and Accountability in Learning Smaller cohorts of around five to eight participants are ideal for fostering engagement and driving change. Accountability partners also play a significant role in maintaining commitment to learning and change. Emphasizing one behavior change at a time and implementing accountability measures allows organizations to increase the likelihood of participants successfully applying their new knowledge and skills. Overcoming Business Challenges with Humility  An important lesson Chris learned was the value of seeking honest and sometimes critical feedback from trusted advisors. Surrounding yourself with people who challenge your ideas and provide candid assessments can lead to more informed decisions and ultimately contribute to resilience and business growth.   Connect with Eric LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website   Connect with Chris Taylor LinkedIn Actionable.co website Actionable.co resources