What One Thing? Building A Better IMEX For 2024 With Carina Bauer What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide To The Top Of The Events World podcast

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Send us a text Smart Meetings vice president and content director JT Long sits down with powerhouse emcee and event strategist Devon Montgomery Pasha for an unforgettable conversation about authenticity, impact and the bold moment she stopped shrinking and chose to take up space. JT shares some exciting news: Devon will join What One Thing? as a future co-host. From managing stage nerves to navigating motherhood and career with intention, Devon opens up about the mentors who fueled her rise, the rituals that keep her grounded and the spark that powers her work. This episode celebrates bold choices, belonging and the power of showing up fully as yourself. ✨ If you’ve ever made yourself smaller to fit in, this is your invitation to expand…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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From Artist to Event Boss: Scaling Impact, Creativity and Confidence 24:26

20 days ago24:26

24:26

Send us a text From classical violin gigs in Des Moines to scaling a multimillion-dollar event production empire, Natasha Miller's career journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, the founder and CEO of Entire Productions joins Smart Meetings Vice President and Content Director JT Long to talk about her path from musician to entrepreneur, the power of self-education, how to claim a seat at the table, and how planners can use AI to amplify their value, not replace it. Get ready to rethink what it means to be a master.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Do It Scared: Betting Big and Building Community 15:39

5 weeks ago15:39

15:39

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of What One Thing , Smart Women in Meetings award winner Shameka Jennings, chief events officer at Events Noire, shares how betting on herself—and doing it scared—became the foundation for a thriving career in impact-driven event strategy. Host JT Long sits down with Jennings to explore her journey from college campus events to building a successful business rooted in community, diversity, and purpose. She breaks down the IMPACT Approach she uses to design intentional experiences, explains how AI has become a powerful tool in her workflow, and reveals how manifestation (and a silent day in Bali) helped shape her goals. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on aligning events with long-term business outcomes, inviting attendees into the process, and trusting their own voice—even when the next step feels uncertain.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Career Lessons for Event Professionals: Leadership, Resilience and Growth 21:12

7 weeks ago21:12

21:12

Send us a text In this episode of What One Thing , Smart Meetings' VP and editorial director, JT Long, sits down with Shawn Pierce, President of Strategic Events, Meetings & Incentives at MCI USA , to trace his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings on a Texas pig farm to leading a 130-person global team. Shawn shares the pivotal moment when a mentor saw potential in him that changed his life and how that spark of belief continues to fuel his passion for mentoring future leaders. The conversation dives into: 💡 Why resilience is the defining skill for modern event professionals 💡 The power of mentorship in shaping careers and industries 💡 How to lead through uncertainty and develop teams who thrive under pressure 💡 Real talk on “doer to leader” transitions and why teachers make the best executives 💡 Building a sustainable pipeline of talent in the meetings industry Whether you're a seasoned planner or just stepping into the field, this episode offers timeless insights on navigating career pivots, cultivating talent and finding purpose in leadership. 🔗 Listen now and discover the one thing that made all the difference in Shawn’s journey and could transform yours.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Mentorship, Modernization and Member Value with Michelle Mason 18:37

8 weeks ago18:37

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Send us a text In this powerful episode of What One Thing? , Michelle Mason, president and CEO of ASAE and recipient of the Smart Women in Meetings Marin Bright Legacy Award, opens up about the leadership philosophy that shaped her journey: servant leadership. From humble beginnings and early mentorship from her mother to leading one of the most influential association organizations in the country, Mason shares what it takes to modernize a 100-year-old institution and reimagine its value for a post-pandemic world. The conversation explores: The bold strategic framework behind “Destination 2026” The role associations play in workforce development, policy, and human connection The personal power of mentorship, emotional intelligence, and lifelong learning Whether you're an association executive, event professional, or rising leader, this episode offers actionable insight into how values-driven leadership can create lasting impact.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Sustainability Meets Innovation in Toronto 22:36

9 weeks ago22:36

22:36

Send us a text In this special live edition of What One Thing? , recorded at Smart Meetings’ Innovation Experience, we head north to explore what makes Toronto a world-class destination for meetings and events. Smart Meetings' editorial director and VP, JT Long, sits down with Romina Kwong, founder of Eco-Friendly Events, and Hailey Dawood, owner of The Idea Hunter, to talk sustainability, diversity and why curiosity may be the most underrated superpower in event planning. From using expired makeup to create auction-worthy art, curating culturally rich vendor rosters and reducing food waste at scale, these Toronto-based trailblazers are redefining what it means to create meaningful impact through meetings. You'll also hear fresh insights on how AI is shifting the planner’s toolkit—and why knowing your city (and your story) can change everything. Whether you're an accidental planner, a DEI advocate, or just looking to create more purposeful experiences, this episode offers inspiration, practical takeaways, and a heartfelt reminder: real change starts with asking the right questions. 🎙 Sponsored by Destination Toronto…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Walking Through the Door: Real Talk on Allyship, Mentorship and Sponsorship 54:06

11 weeks ago54:06

54:06

Send us a text What does it truly mean to be an ally—not just in title, but in everyday action? In this special episode of What One Thing? , we celebrate the inaugural Smart Allies cohort with candid conversations about leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. Leonard Hoops (President & CEO, Visit Indy), David Stevens (Co-founder, Olympian Meeting), and Mike May (President, Brightspot Incentives & Events) join host JT Long to unpack how allies go beyond lip service—walking people through the door of opportunity, not just up to it. From hiring bold college grads and advocating for accessibility, to amplifying mental health conversations and crediting others in the room (and beyond), this episode is packed with honest stories, leadership wisdom, and action steps for anyone who wants to be a better mentor, sponsor, or ally. Featuring special guests: • Leonard Hoops and his accessible vision for Indy • David Stevens on using your power for good • Mike May and Brie Richards on paying it forward—early and often…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Impact 2.0: How IMEX Frankfurt Is Shaping the Future of Events 12:00

14 weeks ago12:00

12:00

Send us a text In this episode of What One Thing? , Smart Meetings’ vice president and editorial director JT Long reconnects with Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, for a second conversation about the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt 2025. Bauer shares insights into the surge in global demand despite geopolitical uncertainty and how IMEX Frankfurt prioritizes health, well-being and inclusivity through wellness rooms, mindful scheduling and accessibility initiatives. They also discuss efforts to nurture future leaders in the events industry, including the Future Leaders Forum, Rising Talent programs and the Young Stars initiative. Bauer introduces the event’s 2025 talking point, “Impact 2.0,” emphasizing connection, sustainability and supporting the next generation of event professionals.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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No Beef, Big Impact: How IMEX is Redefining Sustainable Events 17:43

16 weeks ago17:43

17:43

Send us a text In this episode of What One Thing , Smart Meetings VP and Content Director JT Long speaks with IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer about bold sustainability lessons from IMEX Frankfurt 2024. Bauer shares how simple changes—like removing beef from menus and reordering vegetarian options—can dramatically influence attendee behavior. She explains how IMEX measures sustainability efforts using external consultants, carbon tracking platforms, and venue partnerships. The conversation also dives into green RFPs, regional differences between the U.S. and Europe, responsible sourcing, waste diversion, and meaningful community give-back initiatives. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring first steps to create more sustainable events. www.smartmeetings.com Host: JT Long Producer: Eming Piansay…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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From Six Flags to CEO: The Power of Experience & Connection with Keith Alper 29:28

19 weeks ago29:28

29:28

Send us a text In this episode of What One Thing , Smart Meetings’ VP and Content Director JT Long interviews Keith Alper, CEO and chairman of Creative Producers Group. Alper is a veteran of marketing, branding, business strategy and event production. Alper shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from childhood performances in his basement to launching his first business at 17 while working at Six Flags. He reflects on the influence of his early experiences in the entertainment industry and the customer-first mentality he was ingrained with from amusement parks and hospitality. www.smartmeetings.com Hosted by: JT Long Edited and Produced by: Eming Piansay…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Unlocking Joy: Secrets to Finding Happiness in Every Moment with Robin Shear 16:03

23 weeks ago16:03

16:03

Send us a text In this episode of What One Thing , host JT Long, VP and editorial director of Smart Meetings, welcomes Robin Shear, founder of Joy to the World Coaching , to discuss the transformative power of joy. Shear shares how embracing joy can enhance personal and professional well-being when embraced even during life's toughest moments. She offers practical tips like the "feel-good score." She recounts spontaneous adventures, like a 10-hour trip for a deep-dish pizza, illustrating how joy can be cultivated through connection, spontaneity, and daily mindfulness.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Building Bridges Through Meaningful Dialogue with Jess Pettitt 36:25

27 weeks ago36:25

36:25

Send us a text How can leaders lean into having meaningful conversations? In the latest discussion of What One Thing? , Smart Meetings' JT Long, vice president and content director, chats with Jess Pettitt, a keynote speaker, author and expert on navigating challenging conversations to improve workflow. Pettitt offers some helpful tips to give planners some starting steps in moving their team toward success. www.smartmeetings.com Hosted by: JT Long Produced and Edited by: Eming Piansay…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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Finding Common Ground and Shared Values with David Allison 38:13

32 weeks ago38:13

38:13

Send us a text In this discussion of What One Thing?, JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings, chatted with David Allison, a human values expert and founder of the Value Graphics Research Company, to explore how planners can leverage insights into human behavior to understand their attendees better and create engaging events.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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The Wellness Revolution: The Future of Wellness in Event with Sean Hoess and Kelly Cavers 20:54

36 weeks ago20:54

20:54

Send us a text Are you integrating cryotherapy and IV drips in your events? On this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meetings' JT Long, vice president and content director, sat down with Sean Hoess, the co-founder of Eudemonia and Wanderlust Festival and Kelly Cavers, chief sales officer for The Palm Beaches, to explore what makes wellness events not only impactful but essential for meeting professionals looking to elevate their own conferences.…

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

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From Networking to Lasting Bonds: Practical Tips for Forging Authentic Connections with Kate Patay and Thuy Diep 32:11

42 weeks ago32:11