Best PCMA Podcasts (2025)

1
Convene Article: Designing an Intimate Conference for 10,000 12:38

13h ago12:38

12:38

This episode has been kindly sponsored by Visit Phoenix. Learn more at visitphoenix.com/meetings. How entrepreneur Imani Ellis — who will speak this afternoon in a fireside chat — has built a first-of-its kind community for Black creative professionals by focusing on connection. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene, with exc…

1
Convene Talk: Does AI Boost Productivity or Kill Motivation? Exploring the Hidden Costs of Working with AI 29:04

6d ago29:04

29:04

Is AI making us better—or just busier? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we explore surprising research on how AI boosts productivity but drains motivation. From ethical use to emotional impact, the team shares insights for event professionals navigating AI in a rapidly changing landscape. Links: · Research: Gen AI Makes People More Productiv…

1
Convene Series: How Choosing Yourself Can Lead to a Thriving Business: Lessons from DeShawn Wynn 30:18

7d ago30:18

30:18

What does it really mean to choose yourself—and build a business from it? In this candid episode of the Convene podcast, DeShawn Wynn shares her path to entrepreneurship, how she developed a "winning mindset," and why success requires internal clarity, external support, and the courage to pivot. Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/sh…

1
Convene Article: Measuring Emotion 15:10

8d ago15:10

15:10

While meeting organizers understand the primary role that emotional engagement and experiential factors play in their events, they find those things difficult to measure. We’ve set out to explore how to define, design and how to quantify emotional engagement and make meaningful improvements as a result. Written and read by Jennifer N. Dienst, senio…

1
Convene Talk: What’s New at edUcon 2025: Innovation, Inclusion, and Immersive Learning in Bourbon City 12:38

13d ago12:38

12:38

This episode has been kindly sponsored by Louisville Tourism. Learn more at GoToLouisville.com/meeting-planners/. In this episode of Convene Talk, we unpack what’s ahead at PCMA’s edUcon 2025 — from deeper learning tracks to inclusive programming and immersive local experiences. Held in Louisville, aka Bourbon City, this year’s event focuses on thr…

1
Convene Series: Executive Presence, Career Pivots, and Leading with Intention: Insights from Bill Reed 54:01

14d ago54:01

54:01

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Bill Reed shares practical advice on career advancement, mindset, and the discipline behind leadership. Learn how to grow beyond your role, identify what truly motivates you, and prepare for your next move with purpose. Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https…

1
Convene Article: How to Make Belonging the Centerpiece of Your Events 7:51

15d ago7:51

7:51

DEI expert Ritu Bhasin shares seven tips for creating authentic, inclusive, and emotionally resonant event experiences. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: How to Make Belonging the Centerpiece of Your Events: www.pcma.org/how-make-belonging-centerpiece-your-events/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://w…

1
The 4-Day School Week with Dr. Don Haddad: Innovation or Oversight? 49:21

15d ago49:21

49:21

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paulie Gavoni sits down with veteran superintendent Dr. Don Haddad of St. Vrain Valley School District to explore one of the most hotly debated educational shifts in recent years—the 4-day school week. With over 17 years of experience leading one of Colorado’s largest districts, Dr. Haddad brings deep insight int…

1
The Latest Developments and Sustainability Resources for Planners in Greater Palm Springs 20:43

15d ago20:43

20:43

On this episode of the Meetings Today podcast, digital content coordinator Logan Pratt sits down with Carolina Viazcan, vice president of sales for Visit Greater Palm Springs, and Laruen Bruggemans, director of sustainability and community engagement, to learn how the destination is both creating new developments while balancing its commitment to e…

1
Anaheim Unveils a "Golden Decade" for Meetings 20:06

15d ago20:06

20:06

With $10 billion in infrastructure investment and new dining, retail and entertainment districts such as OCVIBE, Anaheim, California, has embarked on what it has dubbed the "Golden Decade." Meetings Today caught up with Ronnie Collins, senior vice president of sales for Visit Anaheim, to learn the details, and also about mega events coming to the d…

1
Convene Talk: How Medical Meetings Adapted: Lessons from Ophthalmology Conferences in a Post-Virtual World 17:10

20d ago17:10

17:10

In this episode of Convene Talk, the team explores how medical associations like the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Retina Specialists adapted during COVID-19 and continue to evolve. From virtual education and subject-matter expert access to hybrid programming, cost-saving strategies, and the growing importance of cap…

1
Convene Article: Expert Tips for Better Virtual Communication 6:25

22d ago6:25

6:25

Organizational behavior expert Andrew Brodsky on why it’s worth your time to think more deliberately about how you use technology to communicate. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Expert Tips for Better Virtual Communication: https://www.pcma.org/expert-tips-for-better-virtual-communication/ Follow Conv…

1
Convene Talk: What TED’s Turbulent 2025 Says About the Future of Events, Immersion, and Uncertainty 15:34

27d ago15:34

15:34

In this episode of Convene Talk, the team explores how external disruptions — from global tariffs to political chaos — seep into even the most elite events. Using insights from TED 2025, they reflect on the increasing pressure planners face to create immersive experiences while attendees juggle external crises. Plus, they unpack how space design, f…

1
Fixing the Pipeline: Tackling the Education Workforce Crisis with Nicola Soares 33:14

28d ago33:14

33:14

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Paulie sits down with Nicola Soares, President of Kelly Education, to tackle one of the most urgent issues in education today: the staffing and workforce crisis. With over 20 years of experience spanning product development, policy reform, and leadership across major organizations like NBC Universal and McGraw-Hi…

1
Convene Article: Rearchitecting a Trade Show 9:37

29d ago9:37

9:37

A new expo hall design used experiential zones to take attendees on an architectural journey. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: Rearchitecting a Trade Show: https://www.pcma.org/rearchitect-trade-show/ Follow Convene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ Instagram: https://www.i…

1
Convene Talk: How Safety, Politics, and Perception Are Reshaping Destination Selection for Events 22:18

1M ago22:18

22:18

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team unpacks a new research report from Destinations International and Future Partners that explores how perceptions around safety, politics, and social issues are increasingly influencing destination choices. Hear how planners and attendees are reacting to shifting societal pressures, weather risks, and …

1
House Bill 163, Deceptive PBM Tactics, and Building Relationships to Get Legislation Passed 47:46

1M ago47:46

47:46

North Carolina’s House Bill 163 would require pharmacies to be reimbursed at NADAC (National Average Drug Acquisition Cost) plus a fair dispensing fee, which would protect NC pharmacies - ensuring they can stay in business and continue providing critical care to patients. As usual, PBMs are spreading misinformation designed to scare patients and la…

1
How Phoenix Executes Large-Scale Sporting Events 31:10

1M ago31:10

31:10

Phoenix has earned the moniker "Championship Valley" because of its extensive experience in hosting big sporting events like the Super Bowl and basketball championships. Lorne Edwards, chief sales officer, Visit Phoenix and Eric George, special events administrator, City of Phoenix, discuss what goes into the execution of large-scale sporting event…

1
Convene Article: Addressing ‘Prolifically Problematic’ Food Waste at Meetings 7:17

1M ago7:17

7:17

The most commonly wasted foods are bread, pastries, and fruit — a great place for planners to begin developing food-waste prevention practices. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Addressing ‘Prolifically Problematic’ Food Waste at Meetings: https://www.pcma.org/prolific-food-waste-at-meetings/ Follow Con…

1
Convene Talk: Rethinking the Trade Show Experience: Data, Design, and Human Connection 23:37

1M ago23:37

23:37

Are trade shows still relevant in the digital age? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team explores how trade shows are evolving beyond transactional exchanges to deliver meaningful, data-informed, and emotionally engaging experiences. From AI-powered matchmaking to facial recognition technology and immersive booth design, learn how organi…

1
Trauma-Informed or Trauma-Misguided? A Candid Talk with Best-Selling Author Philip Wire 1:08:45

1M ago1:08:45

1:08:45

Send us a text In this episode of The Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni sits down with Missouri middle school teacher and author Philip Wire to unpack a provocative and timely topic: Are schools getting trauma-informed education right—or missing the mark entirely? Inspired by Philip’s bold book, "Trauma-Informed Tragedy: How Sch…

1
Convene Article: Unlocking the Event Housing Block Dilemma 10:21

1M ago10:21

10:21

This episode has been kindly sponsored by Louisville Tourism. Learn more at GoToLouisville.com/meeting-planners/. Over this past year, representatives from major hotel brands and housing services providers met for three PCMA roundtable conversations to discuss housing booking challenges — and potential solutions. Written and read by Michelle Russel…

1
Convene Talk: Should Events Go on After a Natural Disaster? How Planners Can Responsibly Support Recovery 19:17

2M ago19:17

19:17

As climate-related disasters grow more frequent, event organizers face difficult decisions: Should you still host your event in an affected area? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we explore how planners can support recovery efforts—ethically and effectively—through respectful communication, timing, and community engagement. Links: · https://…

1
Convene Article: The Secret to This Tech Conference’s Exponential Growth 5:09

2M ago5:09

5:09

CodeMash’s move to make the tech conference more accessible and affordable led to a family-friendly event that spawned the spin-off KidzMash just for attendees' children. Written and read by Jennifer N. Dienst, senior editor at Convene. Read the Article: The Secret to This Tech Conference’s Exponential Growth: https://www.pcma.org/secret-codemash-t…

1
Convene Talk on How U.S. Policy Shifts Are Impacting Global Events and Scientific Conferences 25:23

2M ago25:23

25:23

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the team discusses how recent U.S. policies and funding cuts are disrupting the business events industry. From international travel challenges to scientific censorship and declining attendance, hear what’s changing—and what it means for planners, speakers, and global collaboration. Links: · https://www.pcma.o…

1
PBM Reform, Conflicts of Interest, & Anti-Monopoly After Lina Khan 43:13

2M ago43:13

43:13

What happens when the largest players in healthcare prioritize profit over patients? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the persistent monopolistic practices plaguing the industry. Join the PUTT cocktail crew and special guest Emma Freer, Health Policy Analyst at the American Economic Liberties Project, as they explore the groundbreaking inf…

1
Virtual Solutions, Real Impact: ABA Support for Military Families in Education with Emil Majetich 41:16

2M ago41:16

41:16

Send us a text In this powerful episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie welcomes Emil Majetich, a doctoral candidate in early childhood special education, licensed behavior analyst, university instructor, and 25-year fire service veteran. Emil shares his remarkable journey from fire lieutenant and paramedic to behavior analyst, empha…

1
Convene Article: Events Professionals Offer Advice on Meeting in Extreme Heat 12:48

2M ago12:48

12:48

As record-breaking temperatures reach unprecedented levels, event organizers — and their participants — will have to take extra precautions to keep everyone cool, and safe. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: Events Professionals Offer Advice on Meeting in Extreme Heat: https://www.pcma.org/events-profess…

1
Convene Interview: Rethinking Business with AI: Creativity, Governance, and Future-Ready Skills with Dr. Ayesha Khanna 28:17

2M ago28:17

28:17

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, the global leader on the future of AI and business Dr. Ayesha Khanna shares how AI is redefining business strategy—from operational efficiency to imaginative co-creation. Discover how organizations can use AI to unlock innovation, manage risk, and empower their workforce—ethically and effectively. Follow Conv…

1
Convene Article: Harnessing the Energy of ‘Unlike Minds’ 12:04

2M ago12:04

12:04

Energy Disruptors: UNITE is an immersive energy sector summit that aims to bring together diverse voices — along with an unexpected infusion of the arts — to spark change. Written and read by Casey Gale, former managing editor at Convene. Read the Article: Harnessing the Energy of ‘Unlike Minds’: https://www.pcma.org/energy-disruptors-unite-summit-…

1
Convene Series: AI in the Public Sector: Balancing Innovation, Ethics & Data Security in Business Events 40:22

2M ago40:22

40:22

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Rory G. Archibald from VisitScotland explores the ethical considerations, data security challenges, and job evolution AI brings to the industry. Tu…

1
Bringing Learners to Center Stage in Value-Based Care with ABA Toolbox's Leila Farshchian 45:12

2M ago45:12

45:12

Send us a text Join Dr. Paulie as he explores value-based care in education with Leila Farshchian MA, BCBA, leader of ABA Toolbox—an award-winning platform advancing science-driven, learner-centered interventions for individuals with autism and disabilities. The conversation explores how integrating behavior analytic principles with compassion and …

1
Gaylord's Massive West Coast Expansion and More, With DOSM Russ Mitchell 19:29

3M ago19:29

19:29

Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center DOSM Russ Mitchell talks about the brand's massive new $1.3 billion property near San Diego, which will be the largest hotel on the West Coast. Located in Chula Vista, California, and set for a May 15, 2025 opening, the property will offer a whopping 1,600 rooms and more than 477,000 square feet of meeting…

1
Convene Series: Beyond the AI Hype: How Businesses Can Leverage Machine Learning for Real Impact 29:18

3M ago29:18

29:18

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. AI is everywhere, but is it truly driving business transformation? In this episode, Augusto Salvatto explores the gap between AI hype and real-world impact, the importance of machine lear…

1
Convene Series: Unlocking AI’s Potential for Events - Insights from a Pulse Check Survey 25:27

3M ago25:27

25:27

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Chantal Sturk-Nadeau and Veemal Gungadin break down key findings from the most recent Pulse Check survey (at the time of recording the working titl…

1
Inclusive Education for Deaf Students: Challenges and Solutions with Jamia Green 35:53

3M ago35:53

35:53

Send us a text In this episode of Crisis in Education, Dr. Paulie sits down with educator and leader Jamia Green to discuss the challenges and opportunities in supporting deaf students. With experience as a teacher of the deaf, a STEM technology educator, a principal, and now a state-level leader in Hawaii, Jamia brings a wealth of knowledge on how…

1
Association Unity, Grassroots Advocacy, & Making Independent Pharmacy Voices Heard 57:26

3M ago57:26

57:26

How can independent pharmacies tackle major challenges like reimbursement disparities, PBM legislative gaslighting, and advocating for fair policies in the healthcare industry? Join host Lord Dr. Jeremy, Alabama Independent Pharmacy Alliance's Trent McLemore, and the PUTT cocktail crew as they dive deep into the power of association and independent…

1
Convene Series: AI and Event Contracts: Legal Risks, Compliance, and Ethical Best Practices with Jill Blood 32:49

3M ago32:49

32:49

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. AI is transforming contract management, but what are the legal risks? In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Jill Blood explores how event planners can use AI for legal insights while st…

1
Tariff Talk With Voices in Advocacy's Roger Rickard 20:31

3M ago20:31

20:31

The threat by the Trump Administration to levy significant tariffs against three of the biggest trading partners of the U.S. became reality March 4, 2025, and the impact on the meeting and events industry is still unfolding. Meetings Today’s Tyler Davidson engaged Voices in Advocacy’s Roger Rickard, the leading expert on political advocacy in the m…

1
Convene Series: AI for Associations - Paula Rowntree on How to Harness Data, Streamline Events, and Enhance Member Value 35:44

3M ago35:44

35:44

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we explore with Paula Rowntree, Head of Events at the Australian Psychological Society, the evolving role of AI in associations—how it’s reshaping …

1
Convene Series: Designing Inclusive Events with AI - How Event Professionals Can Enhance Accessibility and Belonging 27:04

3M ago27:04

27:04

This season has been kindly sponsored by the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit discoverPHL.com to start planning your next life sciences meeting. In this episode of the Convene Podcast, Nick Borelli and Zoe Moore explore how AI can help event professionals design more inclusive experiences. From addressing intersectionality to over…

1
Counterfeit Medications, Rx Pricing Scams, & the Human Cost of PBM Practices 58:14

4M ago58:14

58:14

Counterfeit medications are on the rise, and behind this growing crisis lies a web of questionable practices and systemic failures perpetrated by PBMs throughout the healthcare industry. Listen in as Lord Dr Jeremy & the PUTT cocktail crew explore critical issues that affect the safety, affordability, and accessibility of prescription drugs and cha…

1
Convene Article: Rethinking Swag at Events 4:59

4M ago4:59

4:59

Honeycomb Strategies has documented the life cycle of swag and its environmental impact. Here are some sustainable alternatives. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene. Read the Article: Rethinking Swag at Events Follow Convene: Website LinkedIn Instagram X Subscribe to our newsletters: pcma.org/subscribe-to-pcma-emails Co…

1
Freeman's Bob Priest-Heck on His New 'Inside Live Events' Book 15:24

4M ago15:24

15:24

Former Freeman Company CEO Bob Priest-Heck has helmed one the largest events industry companies in the world, collecting a vast reservoir of knowledge on the profession. Now, in tandem with Freeman Board Chair Carrie Freeman Parsons, he's put that knowledge down on paper in their new book Inside Live Events. Meetings Today's Tyler Davidson sat down…

1
How GOCAL Is Going Big With a Massive Convention Center Expansion and More 18:27

4M ago18:27

18:27

Michael Krouse, president and CEO of the Greater Ontario, California CVB, aka GOCAL, and regional vice president convention centers for ASM Global, shares details on a massive expansion project that will double the size of the Ontario Convention Center (including a parking garage that can double as an event venue!) as well as a new entertainment di…

1
Convene Article: How Is the DEI Backlash Impacting the Events Industry? 10:16

4M ago10:16

10:16

As funding and support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives decline in the U.S., event professionals consider the consequences for meetings, destinations, and associations. Written and read by Barbara Palmer, deputy editor at Convene. Read the Article: How Is the DEI Backlash Impacting the Events Industry? Follow Convene: Website Linked…

1
How to Host Memorable Events in Frisco, Texas 8:45

4M ago8:45

8:45

In this episode of the Meetings Today podcast, Senior Content Director Danielle LeBreck speaks with Lisa Bethea, director of destination services for Visit Frisco, about how planners can host memorable events in rapidly growing Frisco. Learn how to tap the Destination Services team at Visit Frisco, what new developments are on the horizon and more.…

1
Leadership, Behavior Science, and Change in Education with Pierre Louis 39:51

4M ago39:51

39:51

Send us a text In this episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, host Dr. Paulie welcomes his good friend and former colleague, Pierre Louis. As a long-time leader and one of the founders of Ovation Behavior Group, Pierre brings deep insights into the intersection of behavior science, leadership, and education. Dr. Paulie and Pierre discuss: ✅ Ho…

1
Convene Talk on the Impact of Convention Centers: How Modern Design, Community Impact, and Sustainability Are Transforming Communities 19:19

4M ago19:19

19:19

In this episode of the Convene Podcast, we discuss the evolving role of convention centers, from their economic impact on cities to their innovative designs fostering community connections. Links: · Why Are Cities Still Spending Big on Convention Centers? · Convene Talk ep 50 · Trends Report 2025: Help — and Bleisure Time — Wanted · Trends Report 2…

1
Convene Series: Jaimé Bennett on How Convene 4 Climate is Transforming Sustainability in the Business Events Industry 21:04

4M ago21:04

21:04

Discover how Convene 4 Climate is shaping the future of sustainable business events. In this episode, Jaimé Bennett shares insights on co-locating events, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and creating actionable solutions for a regenerative economy. This season has been kindly sponsored by Madrid Convention Bureau. Learn more about how to…

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