Event Design Collective PODcasts

According to Oscar winning Filmmaker Barnet Bain "we can all become weapons of mass creation". Since meeting at the College of Extraordinary Experiences Barnet and host Ruud Janssen 8 years ago, they have become friends as a result of an epic 3 hour bus ride conversation back to the airport in Berlin. This conversation was not left to chance and hear about his new film project based on the epic novel "Men are from Mars Women are from Venus" and his new book "How to be a friend in an unfriendly world". Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation amongst friends. More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online

According to Oscar winning Filmmaker Barnet Bain "we can all become weapons of mass creation". Since meeting at the College of Extraordinary Experiences Barnet and host Ruud Janssen 8 years ago, they have become friends as a result of an epic 3 hour bus ride conversation back to the airport in Berlin. This conversation was not left to chance and hear about his new film project based on the epic novel "Men are from Mars Women are from Venus" and his new book "How to be a friend in an unfriendly world". Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation amongst friends. More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online

Meet Sofya Abramchuk, Architect and multifaceted designer at the Gaudi World Foundation https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofyaabr/ in conversation with Ruud Janssen on this episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast. Sofya Abramchuk, a designer, creative director and founder, and event curator with over a decade of experience leading innovative projects at the intersection of architecture, culture, and transformation. She is the co-founder of the Originate Institute, a visionary spin‑off of the Gaudí World Foundation — where she spent eight years shaping Gaudí’s legacy before transitioning into her current role as advisor and collaborator. Sofya has been deeply involved in curating and delivering international events including three editions of the Gaudí World Congress and a range of immersive challenges, workshops, and exhibitions. She now serves as a collaborator and advisor to the Foundation, and is currently working with AIM Group International on the upcoming Gaudí World Congress in Chile, which will be supporting the construction of the only Gaudí-designed building outside of Spain — the long-awaited Chapel in Rancagua. Today, she’ll be giving a first glimpse into my new initiative: the Back to the Origins Summit, set to take place in Seoul in spring 2026 — the first event of its kind to unite thought leaders, creatives, and institutions around a shared mission: designing a future rooted in timeless wisdom and regenerative innovation.

Meet Sofya Abramchuk, Architect and multifaceted designer at the Gaudi World Foundation https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofyaabr/ in conversation with Ruud Janssen on this episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast. Sofya Abramchuk, a designer, creative director and founder, and event curator with over a decade of experience leading innovative projects at the intersection of architecture, culture, and transformation. She is the co-founder of the Originate Institute, a visionary spin‑off of the Gaudí World Foundation — where she spent eight years shaping Gaudí’s legacy before transitioning into her current role as advisor and collaborator. Sofya has been deeply involved in curating and delivering international events including three editions of the Gaudí World Congress and a range of immersive challenges, workshops, and exhibitions. She now serves as a collaborator and advisor to the Foundation, and is currently working with AIM Group International on the upcoming Gaudí World Congress in Chile, which will be supporting the construction of the only Gaudí-designed building outside of Spain — the long-awaited Chapel in Rancagua. Today, she’ll be giving a first glimpse into my new initiative: the Back to the Origins Summit, set to take place in Seoul in spring 2026 — the first event of its kind to unite thought leaders, creatives, and institutions around a shared mission: designing a future rooted in timeless wisdom and regenerative innovation.

#DESIGNtoCHANGE - Live PODcast recording with special guests Wesley Benn, Chairman of the Digital Built Environment Institute (https://www.dbei.org) ( www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybenn/ ) with Ruud Janssen (www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/…inalSubdomain=ch ) in Year +1 since their first conversation at #IMEX24 in Frankfurt. Check out the AI insights courtesy of SnapSight here:https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/b44355d0-738b-4cb0-8a57-060864c4dada/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways An open conversation with the creators of #EventCanvas and their new book DESIGN to Change, elevating your ability to look and act beyond the now. This series features spontaneous conversations with Event Owners, Event Design Enthusiasts and Certified Event Designers (CED'ers) as well as team members of the Event Design Collective with commentary by the authors Ruud Janssen. Curious questions to learn from real life current event design experiences to help Event Canvas practitioners elevate DESIGN conversations. Share your experiences and the challenges you face in designing for change. We grow in the direction of the questions we ask, so let's start the conversation at IMEX. Find out more at DESIGNtoCHANGE.online

1 year onward we meet again with Sunni Brown / Sun Kagami (www.linkedin.com/in/sunnibrown/) in this #DESIGNtoCHANGE conversation Year +1 with Ruud Janssen (www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/ ) . Sun is a Catalytic Author of The Doodle Revolution (www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/312838…781591847038 , www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K5suHjo7d0 ) , Gamestorming and more to come) , Keynoter, TED speaker, Facilitator, Gamestormer, Zen Student and former Innovator-in-Residence at Mural for whom joy is one continuous mistake. She has been named one of the 100 Most Creative People in Business and one of the 10 Most Creative People on Twitter by Fast Company. She is a consultant, an international speaker, the co-author of Gamestorming gamestorming.com , and the leader of a global campaign for visual literacy. In this conversation with Ruud Janssen she explores concepts relating to Gamestorming, Facilitation, Visual language, Doodling, Graphic recording and Writing in relation to event design. Watch this space for more upcoming features on Sun's groundbreaking work. For more about #DESIGNtoCHANGE check out designtochange.online

Speaking with Certified Event Design Tahira Endean, Head of Programs at #IMEX (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahira-endean-msc-citp-cmp-ced-918a868/ ) now + 8 years on from the first episode of the prequel to the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast ( https://edco.global/edc-vodcast-tahira-endean-designing-bc-tech-summit/) she reflects with Ruud Janssen of the Event Design Collective on the progressions made and the changes that have occurred over time. About ecosystems, nature, human nature, safari and the wilderness beyond.

Stefanie Simmons ( www.linkedin.com/in/stefaniepettigrewsimmons/ , and Thomas Hallin ( www.linkedin.com/in/thomashallin/) discussed with host Ruud Janssen Stefanie is an experienced event designer and meeting planner with various certifications including the CED and EDC MAsterMind. Thomas is a systems thinker, ecosystem builder, and business strategist originally from Sweden based in Los Angeles. Balancing Planning and Spontaneity in Conversations Ruud, Stefanie, and Thomas discuss the importance of not leaving good conversations to chance. Stefanie emphasizes planning and preparation while allowing room for spontaneity. Thomas agrees that planning is essential but also highlights the value of leaving unplanned time for unexpected connections. They reflect on their engaging conversation at IMEX, where they bonded over shared experiences and perspectives on event design despite the distractions of the busy trade show environment. Entrepreneurship's Impact on Personal Growth Stefanie, Ruud, and Thomas discussed the importance of entrepreneurship and its impact on personal and professional growth. Thomas emphasized the growth mindset and soft skills that entrepreneurship provides, as well as the need for financial education from an early age. He also highlighted the various career opportunities that can arise from entrepreneurship, such as event planning. Ruud shared an example of a barista who created value for customers by painting artwork on their coffee cups, making the experience more memorable and unique. The conversation concluded with a suggestion to learn more about the event that showcased this creative approach to customer service. Quality, Performance, and Amplifying Voices Ruud and Stefanie discussed the importance of quality and performance in their respective roles. Stefanie emphasized the value of being known for one's work and the impact it has on others, likening it to a'step and repeat' process. She also shared an anecdote about a successful event where a performer stepped in to save the day, highlighting the importance of behind-the-scenes relationships. Ruud then asked Thomas about how he finds and amplifies the voices of those who are unheard, to which Thomas responded by emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities. Exploring New Opportunities and Experiences Ruud and Thomas discussed the importance of opening up people's minds to new opportunities and experiences. Thomas shared his experience of working with 8th graders, where he introduced them to animatronics, robotics, and other topics, leading to a change in their career aspirations. He emphasized the importance of planning and execution, as well as creating a supportive environment for collaboration and innovation. Ruud agreed, noting the lessons Thomas applied in his work could be applied to executive education in a compressed format. Stefanie then shared her experience of co-creating an onboarding process for a team, which facilitated the introduction of new employees into the company culture. Empowering Innovators and Entrepreneurs In the meeting, Thomas and Stefanie discussed their work with the non-profit organization, Entrepreneurship for Everyone, which aims to empower innovators and entrepreneurs by providing equal access to resources. They also mentioned their involvement in the African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum's 10th annual conference in Cape Town and the upcoming Women Entrepreneurship Conference in the United States. Thomas expressed his desire to support youth, at-risk youth, and people with various challenges. Ruud challenged them to return next year to discuss their progress and experiences. The conversation concluded with Ruud inviting them to the backstage area for further discussion.

Stefanie Simmons ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefaniepettigrewsimmons/ ), and Thomas Hallin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashallin/) discussed with host Ruud Janssen the importance of planning and spontaneity in conversations, the impact of entrepreneurship on personal and professional growth, and the value of creating a safe environment for learning and experimentation. They also explored the concept of 'offboarding' from experiences like Imex, the use of AI for note-taking and reflection, and the importance of note-taking and soft skills in learning and memory retention. The conversation ended with gratitude for the participants and a discussion about potential future meetings. Offboarding Strategies at Imex Experience Ruud initiated a discussion about offboarding from an experience like Imex, asking for insights from Thomas and Stefanie. Stefanie shared her intentional approach to offboarding, reviewing her intentions versus what she actually did, and leaving time for unexpected connections. She has been attending Imex for about 8 years and has designed her own prototype for experiencing the event. Thomas, who has been attending Imax since 2011, also shared his approach, emphasizing the importance of early engagement and interaction with others to build strong relationships and understand their challenges. Both agreed on the value of a holistic view when attending such events. Offboarding Strategies and Reflections Discussed Ruud and Thomas discussed the concept of 'offboarding' in the context of their work and personal experiences. Ruud explained that offboarding refers to the process of decompressing and readjusting after a period of intense activity or immersion, such as a conference or event. He shared his personal experience of needing time to process and reflect on the conversations and experiences from such events. Thomas shared his own strategies for managing the fast pace of his work, including waking up early, working out, skipping meals, and finding time to reflect on his experiences. Both agreed on the importance of staying organized and setting clear goals before, during, and after events. AI for Note Processing and Reflection Thomas and Ruud discussed the use of AI to process and summarize notes taken during their conversations. Thomas shared his daily practice of reflecting on his notes and using AI to provide an executive summary. Ruud found this approach impressive and beneficial for real-time learning. They also discussed the importance of reflection and the role of technology in enhancing their work. Stefanie joined the conversation, highlighting the holistic perspective she brings to her work and her professional development journey. The conversation ended with Ruud appreciating the value that Thomas and Stefanie offer to others, emphasizing the importance of empowering diversity, stimulating connectivity, and building prosperity. Gratitude, Note-Taking, and Future Meetings Ruud expressed gratitude to Stefanie, Simmons, and Thomas for their participation in the conversation. He encouraged them to listen back to their previous discussions to see how their perspectives have evolved. The team discussed the importance of note-taking and soft skills in learning and memory retention. Stefanie shared her past as a "color printer" and her affinity for note-taking. The team also discussed potential future meetings, including a possible meeting in Atlanta for a Women's Conference. Ruud promised to send out an invite for next year's conversation and to share the recording on social media. ___ UPCOMING EVENT as mentioned by Thomas include: August 22-25, 2025 Entrepreneurship For Everyone Conference & Expo Inaugural inclusive innovation and entrepreneurship conference, with focus on providing equal access to resources - we're shaping a world where entrepreneurship knows no boundaries. Orlando, FL

It’s an unusual circumstance for the President of the Association for Continuing Higher Education (ACHE) (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ache-continuing-ed/posts/?feedView=all ) to not only be the event owner, but also a skilled event designer. Discover how Patti Spaniola, CED+ and ACHE President (https://www.linkedin.com/in/patti-spaniola-cmp-ced/) turned over the design of the 86th Annual ACHE International Conference to Bryan Best, CED (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brobest/) and Sherry Blok (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-blok-m-a-a0a14286/ ) to create a joyful, collaborative and educational conference that participants were truly inspired to be a part of. Not only did Sherry and Bryan design and execute a meaningful event that stayed true to Patti’s desired behavior changes, they empowered their team of volunteers to create a magical experience that was perfect in every way. When the event owner says she wouldn’t change one single detail, that is bona fide success! Join us as we share the goodness of the Association for Continuing Higher Education’s 86th Annual Conference held in Palm Springs, CA on October 14-16, 2024. https://www.acheinc.org/events/ache-2024-annual-conference check out the mentioned reels at https://www.instagram.com/acheinc This #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast with Ruud Janssen was recorded on 11 November 2024 and a unique opportunity to hear from the event owner and event design team how that collaborations works in tandem when both master the Event Design using the #EventCanvas Methodology and speak a common language. For more podcast episodes and the DESIGN to CHANGE book check out the link on https://designtochange.online