Virtual vs. In-Person—where do events REALLY belong in 2025? Let’s settle the debate once and for all! Are virtual events still relevant, or has the industry shifted back to in-person experiences? In this episode, we break down the pros, cons, and future trends of virtual, hybrid, and in-person events in 2025. Topics include:✔️ Why in-person connec…

Planners & vendors—are you REALLY on the same page? Discover the biggest misconceptions and how to work together better! Planners know last-minute changes happen, but do vendors understand why? In this episode, we reveal what event planners wish vendors knew about budgets, contracts, event changes, and supplier partnerships. Topics include:✔️ Why l…

Mistakes happen—so how do you fix them without giving away the farm? Learn the art of handling difficult client conversations! In the fast-paced world of event planning, mistakes are inevitable—but how you handle them can make or break client relationships. In this episode, we break down how to navigate tough conversations, resolve issues proactive…

Why do YOU stay in the events industry? Discover what keeps industry leaders passionate and inspired! The events industry is fast-paced, high-pressure, and constantly evolving—so what keeps professionals motivated and engaged? 🎤 In this inspiring episode, Peter Schmidt shares his journey into event planning, how his "why" has evolved, and what keep…

Third-party planners—are they the secret weapon to event success? Find out how they streamline sourcing, negotiations, and contracts! Third-party planners can make event planning easier, faster, and more cost-effective—but do you really know how they work? 🤔 In this episode, special guest Peter Schmidt shares insider insights into how third-party p…

Planners vs. Suppliers—what are suppliers REALLY thinking? Find out what they wish you knew! Event planners and suppliers—are you on the same page? 🤔 This episode uncovers what suppliers wish planners knew about budgets, vendor relationships, and event negotiations. Get ready for real talk about pricing, expectations, and communication in the event…

Success in events isn’t just about skills—it’s about mentorship. Learn how to find and become the right mentor! Who helped shape your career in the event industry? Whether you’re an event planner, supplier, or hospitality professional, mentorship plays a crucial role in career success. In this episode, we explore: ✔️ Why mentorship matters in event…

Want better event contracts and faster RFP responses? Learn how to build partnerships that close the deal! In Part 2 of The Art of Negotiation, we take a deep dive into supplier partnerships and how to navigate event contracts more effectively. From crafting stronger RFPs to ensuring win-win negotiations, this episode uncovers the secrets of buildi…

Why do RFPs take forever? Discover the secrets of event negotiation that suppliers wish planners knew! Ever wondered why your RFPs take so long to get a response? Or how to negotiate hotel contracts like a pro? In this episode of Event Therapy Podcast, we dive deep into the art of negotiation in the events industry—covering everything from RFP time…

Transform initial conflicts into lasting connections with practical tools for collaboration in events. Elizabeth, Liz, and David tackle one of the most common pain points in event planning: communication gaps. They share strategies for bridging divides between planners, suppliers, and vendors to create seamless events. From pre-event meetings to on…

Burnout in events isn’t a maybe—it’s a when. Let’s talk about managing stress and finding balance. Elizabeth, Liz, and David explore the often-ignored topic of mental health in the event industry. With personal anecdotes and actionable advice, they discuss how to recognize stress triggers, set boundaries, and find support systems in a demanding 24/…

Speakers are like spice in your event stew—get the wrong one, and no one’s eating. Lori Pugh tells us how to find the perfect match. Elizabeth, Liz, and David welcome Lori Pugh back to share her wisdom on selecting the right speakers for events. They explore how a well-chosen speaker can elevate an event from ordinary to extraordinary and discuss t…

Conflict happens—Let’s talk about solving problems without losing our cool. Lisa Perry, an expert in conflict resolution and negotiation, joins Elizabeth, Liz, and David to discuss one of the biggest challenges in events—dealing with conflicts. Whether it’s a disagreement between vendors, issues with clients, or managing team dynamics, Lisa provide…

When your professional ‘ships’ turn into partnerships—and businessships—you’ve got magic. Let’s talk about making that happen. Elizabeth, Liz, and David share their own journey from professional acquaintances to co-hosts of a podcast and beyond. They explore the magic that happens when relationships grow beyond the casual and evolve into strong bus…

Education: It’s not just for kids or boring seminars. Let Lori show you how lifelong learning can make your events pop! Elizabeth, Liz, and David welcome back Lori Pugh, their go-to expert on all things education. In this episode, Lori explains why continuous education is not just a nice-to-have but a must-have for staying competitive in the events…

AI: It’s not just sci-fi anymore; it’s how we’re getting time back. Let’s explore the newest updates and why they matter. Elizabeth and Liz interview David Hanscom, Chief Creative Office of Hive Intertactive, and take a deeper dive into the world of AI, exploring the rapid developments since their last discussion. From smarter prompts to tools like…

Want to be an overnight success? So does everyone else. Here’s why playing the long game in relationships actually works. Elizabeth, Liz, and David take a deep dive into why relationships are everything in the event industry—and why they aren’t built overnight. In a world obsessed with instant gratification, they make the case for investing time an…

Teamwork makes the dream work—if only we could decide whose job it actually is—time to figure it out with Tanya Philyaw. In this episode, Elizabeth, Liz, and David are joined by Tanya Philyaw to dive into the art of collaboration in event planning. Tanya shares why a strong foundation of respect and communication is crucial from the very first meet…

It’s a supplier and planner party! Learn how to be the best at both sides of the dance. Networking isn’t just about swapping business cards—it’s about building long-term partnerships. Elizabeth, Liz, and David share their personal stories of connecting with suppliers and planners who became trusted partners and friends. They provide practical advic…

AI: It's not just for sci-fi anymore—it's for your event budget, too. Let’s see how tech magic can make your job easier! Elizabeth, Liz, and David are joined by Lori Pugh, an expert on how to wield AI like a pro, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Lori shares how artificial intelligence can help event pros move from drowning in spreadsheets to focusing…

Elizabeth McKenna, Liz Hogan, and David Hanscom kick off the Event Therapy Podcast by tackling a big question: Who’s really in control during an event? Spoiler alert: It's everyone—and that’s what makes it so complicated. They discuss how managing expectations across layers of stakeholders can be a high-wire act, and why successful events depend on…