Scott Bloom welcomes Seth Dechtman, an experienced agent in the keynote speaking industry. They have a lively and humorous discussion about the importance of relationships in event curation, going well beyond simple transactions to building genuine connections. Seth shares insights on how curiosity, authentic interest in people, and artful questioning shape his approach to matching speakers with audiences. Seth introduces his process—consult, curate, and deliver—where understanding the deeper reasons behind speaker requests is essential. Additionally, Seth talks about how to measure a speaker’s impact; distinguishing between surface-level praise and feedback that shows genuine transformation. He shares secrets for driving long-term impact, such as post-event follow-ups and continued engagement beyond the keynote, offering models like bonus Zoom calls and curated video libraries. And the episode, of course, covers mistakes event planners make—like defaulting to the “hot” or most popular speaker rather than considering the best fit for the audience. Seth also explains the differences between booking celebrities versus thought leaders, and why deeper curation—rather than just chasing big names—is crucial. And he also emphasizes the blending of technology with human intuition, always aiming to find “the unusual suspect” who might be the perfect fit for an event. It’s a great episode jam-packed with great tips and lots of laughs.

Scott Bloom interviews Tom Pesce, a professional magician, speaker, and former educator who made the leap to full-time speaking after over two decades in education. Tom discusses how his teaching background informs his work as an entertainer, drawing parallels between creating memorable classroom moments and unforgettable event experiences. Tom reflects on his unique classroom environment inspired by his father's "school utopia," emphasizing culture, intentionality, and making people feel part of something special. He explains how both employees and students are motivated by purpose and genuine investment, not passive involvement. A major focus is Tom's concept of "engineered surprise"—using intentional entertainment to disrupt expectations and foster audience connection through magic, music, or cultural adaptation. He insists the real magic is helping others discover their unique strengths and bring their whole selves to their roles. The conversation addresses risk, failure, and recalibration, encouraging event professionals to value presence and authenticity over perfection. Tom discusses current trends: hyper-personalization through technology, meaningful hybrid integration, and the growing emphasis on wellness and immersive experiences. They wrap with backstage stories (including runaway doves), speaker mistakes, and advice for planners: book entertainers who understand the corporate world and deliver full experiences, not just brief acts. Overall, the episode is packed with insights on translating teaching skills into world-class speaking, the power of intentional surprise, and the evolving landscape of immersive, people-centered events.

On this episode of No More Bad Events, Scott welcomes David Kliman, co-founder of ELX, a dynamic community built specifically for corporate global heads of events. David shares the intriguing origin story of ELX, which launched in the wake of COVID-19 to provide support, connection, and confidential knowledge-sharing for event leaders managing massive portfolios and teams—often with no advisory board of their own. Scott and David dive deep into global trends shaping the event industry, from the rise of AI and technology, to ever-evolving strategies for audience engagement and the critical importance of data measurement. David gives us a behind-the-scenes look at ELX’s flagship annual Congress and other international forums, explaining how these non-sales, confidential gatherings serve as game-changing think tanks for event pros at the top of their game. Throughout the conversation, David offers actionable insights for event professionals—whether it’s breaking down the real-world barriers of “time poverty,” exploring ways to institutionalize innovation, or navigating the balance between competition and collaboration. Tune in for a rare peek into the minds and methods of the world’s leading event strategists, and discover what it takes to not just keep up—but set the pace—in an industry that never stops evolving.

Ty Bennett joins Scott Bloom to share his one-of-a-kind keynote experience performed with his two teenage sons. Using American Ninja Warrior-inspired feats, Ty combines high-energy visuals with powerful lessons on performance, adaptability, and teamwork. They dive into how working with his kids brings real family dynamics and entrepreneurial lessons to the stage, while the Ninja Warrior obstacles serve as a vivid metaphor for overcoming challenges. All of it, backed by original research. Ty is all about creating an immersive, memorable show that hits emotional highs, Behind the scenes, Ty and Scott chat about navigating tricky event setups and the importance of flexibility in delivering a flawless performance. Plus, Ty’s fun backstage stories give a peek into the life of a pro speaker. By blending family, physical spectacle, and solid research, Ty shows how integrating unique, dynamic elements can truly elevate events, drive lasting success and lead to No More Bad Events.

Laughter doesn’t just entertain and audience—it connects them to the speaker, to the message and to each other. No doubt, a definitive formula for producing No More Bad Events. To that end, Scott Bloom and Adam Christing have an insightful and humorous discussion about the power of laughter and humor, especially in professional and event settings. Adam shares insights from his new book, The Laughter Factor, where he introduces the concept of “laugh languages”— five simple ways anyone can use humor to spark connection. The best part? Your keynote speaker doesn’t have to be a comedian. But by leaning into surprise, self-effacing humor, wordplay, exaggeration, or in-jokes, presenters have the power to make the message more engaging and memorable. For event planners, this means a comedic keynote is more than just fun—it’s transformative. Humor creates authenticity, strengthens bonds, and leaves attendees talking long after the event. And because the laugh language principles can be applied day-to-day in the office, leaders and teams gain lasting tools to build trust, foster approachability, and create a culture of connection The better part? The principles extend from the event into the workplace and daily life because everyone has a “laugh language’, and discovering yours can make you more engaging, relatable, and effective—whether you're leading a team, speaking at an event, or just connecting with others. In general, we learn that Laughter is essential for connection and well-being at events, in workplaces, and in life. Everyone has a unique way of expressing and experiencing humor, and with some self-discovery (and a bit of courage), anyone can tap into their own laughter factor.

Scott Bloom sits down with Quinn Conyers, a dynamic professional emcee, to talk about event hosting, diversity in the industry, and what it really takes to make events memorable and engaging. Together Quinn and Scott discuss the evolving role of the emcee, shifts in the industry, especially post-pandemic, including more awareness about the impact of emcees, allies supporting diverse voices, and the move from standard events to memorable experiences. Quinn also touches on the challenges that come from being a visible "first" in a male-dominated industry, and her ongoing mission to increase representation for women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ professionals in event hosting. The conversation moves into actionable tips for keeping multi-day events engaging—audience activation activities, leveraging props, audience challenges, and giveaways. She also stresses the importance of the emcee’s involvement beyond the stage, from mingling with attendees to helping with technical or unexpected issues. They wrap up with some rapid-fire questions, where Quinn shares fun personal tidbits (like her love for Dirty Dancing), her marketing instincts, and the best advice she’s received: embrace being a unicorn rather than trying to fit in as a horse. Overall, the episode is a passionate masterclass on what separates a good event from a great one and the central—yet often underestimated—role a talented, intentional emcee plays in that transformation.

In this episode, Scott Bloom interviews keynote speaker Gregory Offner about his unique approach to creating memorable and engaging experiences, both on stage and in the workplace, using the metaphor of a piano bar. Gregory explains how his background in sales and music led him to realize the power of transforming routine transactions into impactful, transformative experiences. He shares how his "Encore Experience" keynote draws parallels between energizing an audience in a piano bar and boosting employee engagement at work. Gregory discusses his framework of "keepers, leapers, and sleepers" to classify audience. Keepers are the loyal attendees. Leapers are high-energy participants but perhaps temporary, and sleepers are a bit disengaged. And with those archetypes as the foundation, Gregory highlights the importance of making attending an event feel like "time well spent"—a principle rooted deeply in experience design. He explains how giving people a voice and the chance to co-create the experience, drives deeper engagement and satisfaction. Gregory also shares some fun rapid-fire insights about his musical preferences and rituals, and explains how he integrates live music into his keynote talks as both a performance anchor and a way to boost emotional and cognitive engagement. Overall, the conversation offers actionable ideas for event organizers and business leaders to foster environments where people feel involved, valued, and excited to return—transforming events into true "encore experiences." Whether you’re an event pro, aspiring speaker, or just love a story about turning magic into a movement, you’ll take away fresh ideas on how to engage audiences and create truly memorable experiences.

On this episode of No More Bad Events, Scott Bloom sits down with Jon Petz—magician, keynote speaker, emcee, and now “amazement artist.” Jon shares the unconventional path that led him from entertaining with magic tricks to commanding stages as an award-winning speaker and in-demand event emcee. He unpacks how his background in tech sales and a passion for creating moments of amazement turned into a business model that’s redefining audience engagement at events around the world. From the importance of emotional connection and “moments of amazement,” to running events as a co-creative partner, Jon reveals industry secrets that event planners and speakers alike won’t want to miss. Plus, Jon opens up about his “seven of hearts” pay-it-forward project and what it meant to be inducted into the National Speakers Association Hall of Fame. Expect plenty of laughs, some powerful advice on killing boring meetings for good, and a few behind-the-scenes tales from a life spent on—and off—the stage. Whether you’re an event pro, aspiring speaker, or just love a story about turning magic into a movement, you’ll take away fresh ideas on how to engage audiences and create truly memorable experiences.

In this episode, Scott Bloom and Jeff Rogers, both dynamic emcees, get into the unique skills and behind-the-scenes responsibilities of professional emcees at live events. They begin by reminiscing about how their paths have crossed over the years and how they finally got to know each other at the National Speakers Association (NSA) The conversation quickly shifts to the true role of an emcee—one who not only brings humor but also acts as the “red thread” throughout an event, connecting all the moments, reinforcing key messages, and serving as a relatable advocate for the audience. Both speakers discuss the misconceptions companies often have about hiring emcees versus comedians or internal staff, emphasizing how a professional emcee can elevate an event’s energy, engagement, and outcomes while avoiding potential pitfalls. They discuss the importance of preparation, customization, and the consultative work emcees often do with event planners, offering suggestions to enhance experiences beyond just what happens on stage. Jeff introduces the concept of the “total package” emcee, who can seamlessly blend hosting, keynotes, awards, and thought leadership for bigger value and stronger audience connection. Throughout, both Scott and Jeff share entertaining anecdotes from their careers, including moments when they were mistaken for company insiders and strategies for making themselves essential, trusted parts of the event team. Toward the end, Scott answers rapid-fire questions about improv games, favorite cities, musical talents, comedy legends, and why Chicago’s fleeting good weather is so special. Overall, this episode is a masterclass on the impact a great emcee has behind the scenes and in the spotlight, and why bringing in a pro means “no more bad events.”

In this episode of No More Bad Events, Scott sits down with Anne Gorman, VP of Sales and Marketing, from streamlinevents to discuss the evolving dynamics of the events industry, particularly influenced by the influx of Millennial and Gen Z professionals. Anne shares insights on how the workplace and event audience expectations are shifting as younger generations bring new values, such as flexibility, mental health awareness, and a desire for meaningful work, to the forefront of event planning and team building. The conversation delves into how event companies are adapting in their hiring and training practices to accommodate the needs of younger staff, offering more structured support, feedback, and multiple potential career paths. Anne emphasizes the necessity of the industry to meet these younger professionals where they are, rather than expecting them to change, highlighting the importance of variety and purpose in career development. Scott and Anne also explore how attendees’ expectations have evolved—audiences now crave interactive, experiential, and networking-driven events rather than long traditional presentations. Technology is playing a pivotal role, but Anne underscores the need for tech to facilitate genuine in-person connections instead of just digital interactions. She shares examples of leveraging registration data and AI to foster better real-life connections among attendees. Addressing industry-wide challenges, Anne notes a slowdown in event commitments due to global uncertainties and points out the increasing demand for event personalization, sustainability, and agenda flexibility. The discussion touches on the need for better compensation within the industry to attract top talent and considers innovative formats like "unconferences" for future events. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted "Get to Know You" segment, where Anne shares some personal preferences, favorite travel destinations, and a memorable story from her early career, giving listeners a glimpse into her personality outside of her professional expertise. Overall, this episode offers valuable perspective on how generational change is shaping the future of event planning and delivery.

Scott Bloom and John Di Domenico, both experienced MCs and performers, reflect on their careers and long friendship. They share how their journeys in stand-up comedy led them into the world of corporate events. Both started their entertainment careers doing stand-up from a young age, but realized the corporate event world allowed them to use their skills in more creative and collaborative ways. John shares the path he took from performing in clubs and working as a copywriter to becoming a sought-after corporate entertainer, impersonator, and MC. He talks about the importance of deep customization—learning about the company, its culture, and the people in the audience—to deliver performances that truly resonate. Scott echoes this, highlighting how being able to read the room and keep audiences engaged is what sets professional MCs apart from internal company hosts. John details his unique process for preparing for events, from extensive research into company backgrounds to speech warmups (a legacy of overcoming childhood speech impediments). He also touches on his journey from doing full-character impersonations (complete with wigs and prosthetics) to performing as himself while using his array of voices and impressions for added flavor. Both hosts note that today's audiences for business events are more sophisticated and expect a "show," not just a meeting. The episode finishes with a fun rapid-fire Q&A where John reveals his favorite character (Austin Powers), his go-to karaoke song, and his hidden talents. The conversation overall is engaging, light-hearted, and packed with wisdom for the new event professional to the seasoned professional.

Welcome to another episode of No More Bad Events. In today’s episode, Scott is joined by Canadian event strategist and writer, Jason Koop, for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about the evolving world of events on both sides of the border. Jason shares his insights on the cultural differences between the U.S. and Canada when it comes to business risk-taking, and discusses how new U.S. policy changes are disrupting not just American but also Canadian and international events. They explore why content strategy is the linchpin of modern events—especially in the rapidly growing corporate and B2B markets—and they dive deep into the importance of authenticity and storytelling in content, the shift toward strategic use of micro-influencers, and how planners can adapt for a new generation of attendees who bring different values, attention spans, and expectations to the table. Jason’s optimism for the industry shines through, as he looks to the opportunities presented by new technologies, virtual events, and the potential for Canada to strengthen its place as a global meetings destination. If you’re ready for an episode packed with candid opinions, practical advice, and a dose of industry optimism, press play and join the conversation!

Welcome back to another episode of No More Bad Events. Today, Scott sits down with Amy Eddy, a seasoned speaker bureau agent from Big Speak with over 18 years in the events industry. Tune in as they pull back the curtain on what really goes into planning memorable events, from the evolving role of technology and AI in the speaker business to the crucial art of choosing the right keynote speaker. You’ll get a candid look at the behind-the-scenes decision-making, including why some speakers leave a lasting impression, how to balance entertainment and impact on the main stage, and what clients often overlook when building their event lineup. Plus, Amy shares anecdotes from her own extensive experience—think Roombas on the loose, last-minute speaker scrambles, and why the human touch still matters in our high-tech world. Whether you’re booking your next big conference or just curious about what makes events truly unforgettable, get ready for expert insights, a few laughs, and plenty of actionable tips straight from two pros who know how to keep both audiences and event planners engaged.

In this episode of "No More Bad Events" with Scott Bloom, Daniel Roth shares insights on how his background in festivals and theater informs his approach to events. He identifies himself as a "pragmatic creative," focusing on realistic ideas he can execute. Roth emphasizes the importance of balancing practicality with creativity, understanding client needs, and being flexible with changes. He discusses how branding and culture play crucial roles in live events, and how technology, when used thoughtfully, can enhance the experience. Roth also talks about his podcast "Event Explorer," which delves into the cultural impact of community events and festivals. The episode highlights his passion for using creativity to foster better connections and cultures in the event space.

In this episode of No More Bad Events, Scott is joined by one of the top trusted advisors in the industry, Howard Givner. They discuss the challenges currently facing the events industry, describing it as a "perfect storm" of various factors, such as government tariffs, international tensions, and disrupted supply chains. Howard highlights the unpredictability and chaos in the current environment, comparing it to, yet distinctly different from, the disruptions caused by COVID-19. Howard emphasizes the importance for event professionals to focus on demonstrating the ROI of events and being proactive in their approach. He suggests that unpredictability presents an opportunity for event planners to prove their value as trusted advisors, guiding their clients through these challenging times. Throughout the conversation, Howard shares his insights on the impact of current policies, particularly on government-related events and the relationship with Canada. He encourages event professionals to take action by lobbying or ensuring they can effectively articulate the value their events bring. The episode offers a reflective yet practical outlook, suggesting that while challenges abound, they also bring opportunities for innovation and leadership within the industry.

In this episode of "No More Bad Events”, Scott hosts a conversation with Leslie Fenton, VP and Partner from FLIRT Communications, and Natasha Miller, founder and CEO of Entire Productions. The discussion dives into their unique strategic partnership, highlighting how they complement each other's businesses in the events industry. Leslie and Natasha talk about how their partnership enables them to expand their service offerings without competing head-to-head, adding value to their clients by combining their strengths. Natasha's company, Entire Productions, has grown to offer sophisticated entertainment and event production services, while FLIRT Communications brings expertise in video production, copywriting, and more. Their partnership remains non-exclusive, focusing on delivering what best serves their shared clients. The conversation touches on various facets of working together, such as transparency, trust, and the importance of cultural alignment between the two companies. They also discuss logistical aspects like billing and the flexibility of white labeling services for the client's benefit. Throughout the episode, there's a palpable sense of excitement about the possibilities their partnership brings, as well as the mutual learning and respect shared between their teams. Both Leslie and Natasha express their commitment to maintaining their client's best interests as they navigate this innovative, collaborative approach in the evolving events industry.

The mind is a powerful tool. Are you ready to use it? Stand by because, in this episode of No More Bad Events, we dive into the fascinating world of the mind with our guest, Wayne Lee. With his experience as an entertainer and hypnotist, Wayne has transitioned into the keynote space, where he utilizes principles of hypnosis to help people change their mindset. He shares how his journey began as a teacher and a wrestler, where the power of visualization first captured his interests, eventually leading him to explore hypnosis. Throughout the conversation, Wayne emphasizes the significance of understanding the subconscious mind and how our beliefs, often ingrained by age 12, dictate our thoughts and actions. Exploring the SCP (Subconscious Creation Process), Wayne introduces techniques like the "W.A.I.T tool" to enhance awareness and recalibrate our thinking patterns. Additionally, he illustrates the transformative power of hypnosis and imagination through interactive demonstrations, showing how shifting perceptions can lead to remarkable personal growth and freedom. And most importantly to all planners out there, he touches upon how to get the most from speakers and hypnotists (of course) at events. Wanna know more? Tune in to learn how to harness your mind's power to break through barriers and achieve your goals.

In this episode of No More Bad Events, we interview Marco Mendolia, a senior program manager at a large technology and retail company, about the evolving landscape of conferences, particularly E-commerce conferences, and the concept of "festivalization." They discuss how modern conferences have transformed into business festivals, incorporating experiences from traditional festivals, including high levels of production, professionalism, and engaging attendee interactions. Marco also shares insights on his role in developing partnership strategies, emphasizing the importance of early collaboration with partners and sponsors and the need to deliver memorable attendee experiences. The conversation covers various aspects of conference planning, such as integrating learning with fun elements, fostering connections among attendees, and maximizing sponsorship value. Additionally, Marco highlights the significance of building personal relationships with exhibitors and sponsors, leveraging his skills as an emcee to enhance overall attendee engagement and experience. The episode wraps up with Marco discussing his passion for hosting and his future aspirations within the conference industry.

In this engaging episode of No More Bad Events, Scott welcomes guest Seth Friedman, an expert in creative direction for events, to discuss the evolving landscape of the events industry. As they catch up, Seth reflects on how the pandemic has acted as a catalyst for positive change, pushing event professionals to create more impactful and concise presentations. Together, they delve into the necessity of shortening speeches, crafting captivating narratives, and ensuring meaningful audience engagement. Seth shares his insights on the importance of storytelling in business meetings, fostering empathy, and moving hearts and minds to drive action. This episode also explores the concept of ongoing conversations and relationships with audiences, emphasizing the vital role of empathy and dynamic content in creating memorable and effective events. Whether you're an event professional or simply interested in enhancing presentations, this conversation offers invaluable takeaways for achieving lasting impact.

In this episode. Scott sits down with Bill Herz, a magician who turned his love for magic—and a solid MBA in hotel and restaurant administration—into a thriving corporate entertainment business. Bill shares his rollercoaster journey, starting as a magic-loving MBA grad who knocked on corporate doors right down to that poof! moment when an adjustment to his client list and a customized magic trick for a big gig in England changed everything. From there, Bill and his wife built a unique business, Magiccorp, teaching executives how to use magic tricks to connect with their audience and deliver messages with flair. Their first star client? Oh, just Bill Gates. This was followed by a spotlight in the Wall Street Journal which literally turned their start-up business into a major hit. Now, Bill’s company specializes in magic and mentalism for corporate events—think after-dinner shows, trade exhibitions, and team meetings. An agency with a full roster of the best magical talent out there, Magiccorp focuses on making every performance a perfect fit, tailoring acts to match the audience’s vibe, the event’s flow, and the client’s goals. What’s more, Bill’s company keeps things top-tier by being picky with talent, ensuring every act fits the bill, which in turn delivers a great event. To wrap up, Bill emphasizes magic’s universal charm and why it’s crucial to hire performers who “get” the audience- s must-have for crafting memorable, message-driven moments. Turns out, with the right magic, even corporate events can be spellbinding! Tune in and discover how Bill Herz will work his special brand of magic for you.