Production Value Matters: The Business Event Podcast

Rising costs are putting pressure on AV and production budgets. Prioritizing audio quality is crucial to maintaining event standards. The discussion emphasizes smart compromises in visual design without losing audience impact. Navigating the complexities of in-house AV teams is explored, highlighting the importance of clear communication. Additionally, listeners learn effective strategies for negotiating venue contracts to protect production goals. Real-life examples reveal how to manage exclusivity clauses, showcasing the value of technical experts in elevating event success.

What’s the fastest way to kill a great show? Poor planning around entertainment.You booked a killer band. But did you think about sound check? Rider updates? That mic for your CEO’s speech?In this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne is joined by Patrick McGannon, founder of PM GIGS, to unpack the real challenges and opportunities in booking live entertainment for business events.Pat brings a dual perspective—seasoned performer and production-savvy agency owner—and shares candid insights on what’s changed in the entertainment landscape since the pandemic. From last-minute RFP chaos to misaligned expectations around sound and stage logistics, Pat and Matthew explore what producers often get wrong—and how to do it right.This episode is a must-listen for producers, planners, and performers alike who want to create seamless, high-impact experiences through entertainment that truly lands with the audience.What You’ll Learn:Why compressed proposal timelines are the new normal—and how to manage themWhat event producers often overlook when booking entertainmentHow talent vetting and rider management can make or break a showWhy collaboration across AV, staging, and entertainment matters more than everHow entertainment is evolving alongside technology, rigging, and audience expectationsThe future of events in Calgary—and what it means for Canada’s event landscapeAdvice for performers entering the business market of eventsPatrick McGannon is the founder of PM GIGS, a Calgary-based entertainment and production agency. A 25-year industry veteran and award-winning producer, Pat blends his firsthand stage experience with logistical expertise to deliver seamless entertainment experiences for conferences, festivals, and corporate clients across Canada.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow Matthew Byrne on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsepFollow Patrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-mcgannon-106b9526/For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your event creating fans or just checking boxes?In this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne welcomes Alex Shebar, founder of NYC Social Club and a seasoned strategist in community, content, and brand experience. From launching influencer programs at Yelp and Bumble to producing immersive campaigns with global brands like HBO and Amazon, Alex has seen what works—and what completely misses the mark.Together, Matthew and Alex dig into the core of what makes events feel human, relevant, and worth sharing in 2025. They tackle why so many brands still “stop at stage one,” how to think small to scale big, and why treating attendees like data points is a recipe for mediocrity. Whether you're planning global activations or niche experiences, this episode offers a fresh (and often funny) take on how to create true connection in an industry that's often just going through the motions.What You’ll Learn:How to define clear ROI and purpose before planning any eventWhy personalization and small touches create big impactThe problem with treating attendees like data—not peopleHow to adapt global events with cultural nuanceWhy content and community strategies must work togetherThe real meaning of hybrid (hint: it’s not just livestreaming)How micro-communities drive deeper brand engagementAlex Shebar is the founder and Head of Influencer Partnerships at NYC Social Club. With 12+ years in community strategy, immersive marketing, and campaign development, he’s led global programs at Yelp, Bumble, and Culture Trip. Known for building high-impact brand moments that actually mean something, Alex helps brands move from passive reach to active resonance.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow Matt on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsepFollow Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-shebar/For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne is joined by Candace Davis and Nick Borelli for a panel discussion that gets to the root of what’s really threatening the events industry in 2025: not just economics, but toxic uncertainty. Together, they explore how fear—not just cost—is driving cautious decisions, cancelled plans, and communication breakdowns across associations, agencies, and global brands. This is a must-listen for event professionals navigating change and trying to stay creative when confidence is collapsing. In this episode, you will learn: Why attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors are all re-evaluating their commitments The return of hybrid events—and what makes them viable again What brands are afraid of in today’s political climate How global travel policy is slashing event participation Why associations are failing to lead—and what needs to change Creative ways to preserve pricing without losing value About The Guests: Nick Borelli is a seasoned event strategist with over 20 years of experience in digital marketing and live experiences. As the founder of Borelli Strategies and a former executive at Allseated, he’s helped shape event strategy for Fortune 500 brands and global organizations. Known for his work on hybrid meeting platforms and future-of-work solutions, Nick is a passionate thought leader driving innovation at the intersection of events, technology, and human connection. Candace Davis is an award-winning event professional with 15 years of experience in virtual and in-person event production. From securing high-profile sponsorships early in her career to building successful virtual programs for global associations, Candace brings strategic insight and client-first execution to every project. In her current role at vFairs, she supports enterprise clients in delivering standout virtual, hybrid, and in-person events that drive long-term value. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Host LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsep Guest LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/francois-fournier-ctsm-cem-15981120 For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.com For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does your event stage really say about your brand? In this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne dives into one of the most exciting shifts in business events today: the evolution of stage design. What used to be a flat backdrop is now a powerful canvas for storytelling, innovation, and brand identity. Whether you're staging a product launch or a leadership summit, how you design your stage can dramatically affect audience engagement, content value, and brand perception. In this episode, you’ll learn: ● Why Apple, Samsung, Tesla, and Salesforce are leading stage innovation ● The biggest trends in modern event staging from minimalist to 360-degree design ● How immersive LED screens, projection mapping, and holograms are raising the bar ● Real-world examples of sustainable and modular stage setups that drive ROI ● How hybrid and AI-driven staging is transforming audience connection ● What future-focused producers need to know about personalization and digital overlays Matthew brings together real brand examples, production trends, and future-forward thinking to help you reimagine what your stage can—and should—do. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow Matthew on LinkedInFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.com For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your best event ROI isn’t in the lead list, but in a breakfast conversation?Event leaders today face an overwhelming challenge: prove event value, defend the budget, and deliver real business impact, all while expectations rise and resources shrink. If you’re still measuring success by foot traffic or lead scans, this episode will change the way you think.In this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne chats with Francois Fournier, Head of Global Events at DTN, about how to move beyond vanity metrics and truly prove event ROI. With 20+ years in the industry and a portfolio of 75+ trade shows annually, Francois breaks down how DTN uses payback ratios, qualified business conversations, and strategic data collection to tie event spend directly to business outcomes. Whether you’re producing incentives or pushing pipeline, this is an ROI masterclass every event pro needs to hear.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Qualified Business Conversations beat lead count every timeHow to use a 10:1 Payback Ratio to prove event valueA practical way to visualize event performance using the BCG MatrixHow to evaluate incentive programs through cultural metrics like retention and referralsWhat goes into a post-event report that your CFO will actually readHow to turn your team into a strategic resource, not just logistics supportFrancois Fournier is the Head of Global Events at DTN, a data and technology company supporting industries like energy, agriculture, and weather. With over 20 years of experience in corporate B2B events across financial services, SaaS, and technology, Francois has led global event strategies for major organizations including Fitch Ratings and Assurant. He is a Certified Exhibit Manager (CEM) and Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM) at the Gold level, and is known for building measurement-driven programs that drive awareness, convert demand, and prove business value on a global scale.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Connect with Francois Fournier on LinkedInConnect with Matthew Byrne on LinkedInFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne is joined by Isabelle Camp, Global Head of Events at Cohere, to break down what it really takes to design events that deliver measurable business impact. From strategic planning to post-event automation, Isabelle shares the systems, team alignment strategies, and data practices that transform events into revenue engines. Whether you’re navigating disconnects between sales and marketing or looking to move beyond vanity metrics, this episode offers a playbook for event pros who want real pipeline results in today’s B2B landscape. You’ll also hear why creative experiences still matter, how to avoid cookie-cutter formats, and what metrics actually move the needle when it comes to pipeline influence. What you’ll learn: How to align event strategy with company-wide business goals Ways to bridge the gap between sales and marketing through events How to track pipeline impact using CRM and automation Why clear pre-event objectives lead to stronger post-event reporting How to balance creativity with data-driven decision-making Strategies for scaling what works—and cutting what doesn’t Isabelle Camp brings over a decade of global event marketing experience, from enterprise trade shows to product launches. Now leading the charge at Canada’s top AI company, Cohere, she’s redefining what success looks like in strategic events and how to achieve it at scale. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Connect with Isabelle on LinkedInConnect with Matthew Byrne on LinkedInFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.com For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comWhat if your event tech worked like a personal concierge? Akshar Patel of eShow joins Matthew to reveal how smarter tools are streamlining planning, slashing stress, and leveling up the attendee experience.What you’ll learn:Strategies for integrating systems and breaking down data silosCommon blind spots in operational planningThe balance between AI innovation and personal touchPost-event technology strategiesAkshar Patel brings more than 20 years of experience spanning event management, hospitality, and strategic planning. Prior to joining eShow, he held key leadership roles at AAHOA, the Obesity Society, and Meeting Advice, where he consistently delivered results through operational excellence and innovation.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here.Host LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsepGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akshar-patel-360887116Production Value Matters: The Business Event Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soPrevious guests include: Nick Borelli of Zenus Inc, Jonathan Kazarian of Accelevents, Mahoganey Jones of Event Specialists Inc, Sarah James of Live Nation, Kim Washington of NBA, Jacob Zucker of Morgan Stanley, Carrie Davenport of Altria and Catherine Chaulet of Global DMC PartnersCheck out our three most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi Collen, Director of Meetings and Events at Great ClipsEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey of Matey EventsFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comIn this episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne tackles a pressing question for marketing and event professionals: in a landscape dominated by AI-generated content, how do businesses break through the noise and build authentic connections with their audiences?You’ll learn:The current state of AI in content creationWhy audiences are becoming numb to AI-generated marketingHow live events create trust and memorable experiencesCase studies of major brands successfully blending AI with in-person experiencesPractical strategies for incorporating live experiences into your marketing planMatthew explores why trade shows, conferences, networking events, and experiential marketing activations are becoming strategic necessities in a world oversaturated with digital noise.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Instructions on how to do this are here.Host LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsepProduction Value Matters: The Business Event Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soPrevious guests include: Nick Borelli of Zenus Inc, Jonathan Kazarian of Accelevents, Mahoganey Jones of Event Specialists Inc, Sarah James of Live Nation, Kim Washington of NBA, Jacob Zucker of Morgan Stanley, Carrie Davenport of Altria and Catherine Chaulet of Global DMC PartnersCheck out our three most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi Collen, Director of Meetings and Events at Great ClipsEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey of Matey EventsFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comMatthew sits down with Nicola Kastner, powerhouse CEO of the exclusive Event Leaders Exchange (ELX), to uncover what’s really shaping event strategy in 2025. From navigating economic turbulence to adapting to global policy shifts, they dive into the biggest challenges—and the smartest strategies—event leaders need to know.What you’ll learn:The impact of rising costs and budget constraints on event strategiesHow policy shifts are creating uncertainty in the events industryMaintaining DEI values in a changing political climateThe economic risks of rising tariffs on event production costsThe importance of embracing hybrid event strategiesNicola Kastner brings over 15 years of experience in event marketing strategy, including her previous role as global vice president of event marketing strategy at SAP. Recognized as a top woman in events by Event Marketer Magazine and inducted into the Canadian Meetings Hall of Fame, Nicola offers valuable insights on navigating the complex challenges facing the industry today.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Host LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsepGuest LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolakastnerProduction Value Matters: The Business Event Podcast is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.soPrevious guests include: Nick Borelli of Zenus Inc, Jonathan Kazarian of Accelevents, Mahoganey Jones of Event Specialists Inc, Sarah James of Live Nation, Kim Washington of NBA, Jacob Zucker of Morgan Stanley, Carrie Davenport of Altria and Catherine Chaulet of Global DMC PartnersCheck out our three most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi Collen, Director of Meetings and Events at Great ClipsEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey of Matey EventsFor additional resources for #eventprofs visit www.productionvaluematters.comCheck out our 3 most downloaded episodes:Measuring Value in Your Events: Insights from Jodi CollenEducating Clients and Managing Expectations in Event Production with Fransiska WeckesserThe Intersection of Event Planning and Psychology with Victoria Matey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.