The Business of Meetings

If you are an independent business owner in the meeting and event space, this podcast is for you! Your host, Eric Rozenberg has created this show to bring you strategies, tips, and tactics to help your business grow. With more than 20 years in the event industry and planning events for Fortune 100 companies, Eric is prepared to let you in on the insider tactics so you can be successful too!

288: Pause to Perform: Breath, Stress & Eventpreneur Resilience with Megan Nolan 09/16/2025

288: Pause to Perform: Breath, Stress & Eventpreneur Resilience with Megan Nolan Today, Eric is excited to welcome Megan Nolan, the founder of Vitality Wellness in Maui. With extensive experience in yoga, mental health, and wellbeing, Megan brings powerful tools to support small business owners and professionals within the meetings and events industry. About Megan Nolan Megan Nolan is a yoga teacher and personal trainer based in Maui. She combines movement, mindfulness, and strength training to help people improve their posture, energy, and mental focus. Beyond individual sessions, she specializes in bringing wellness into the conference and events industry by leading yoga, breathwork, and “power pauses” that energize participants and boost engagement. Her mission is to make healthy habits accessible, fun, and sustainable, whether for individuals, teams, or large audiences. Generational Awareness of Health Younger generations are highly aware of their mental and physical health. They openly communicate about emotions, seek out wellness tools, and tune into their bodies. Older generations, by contrast, often adapt more slowly. Technology and Posture Today’s youth are growing up with devices in their hands, and it shows in their posture. Postures previously associated with aging are now common, even in children, driven by extended hours of sitting and screen use. Preventing and Correcting Rounded Posture Megan highlights that a rounded posture is preventable and, to some extent, correctable at any age. Even into the 90s, the body is capable of gaining bone density and muscle strength. Through neuroplasticity, the body can adapt when weak muscles are strengthened and tight tissues are stretched. While skeletal issues may limit the degree of improvement, regular movement and targeted exercises can restore alignment and function. The Toll of Sitting Sitting for eight to ten hours a day quickly reshapes the body. Extended events or workdays often leave people feeling one with the chair, collapsing into poor posture. That reduces energy, focus, and creativity. Megan recommends taking short breaks to stand up, stretch, or strike a power pose to instantly improve attention, boost creative thinking, and sustain productivity. Hot Yoga: Trend or Health Tool? Practiced in rooms heated to about 105°F, hot yoga can help soften tissues and deepen flexibility. However, Megan cautions that most people are dehydrated, and the extreme heat places extra strain on the heart. Without strong body awareness, participants may overstretch tendons and ligaments. For those who are healthy, hydrated, and experienced, hot yoga can be beneficial. For most others, Megan recommends warm yoga as a safer alternative. Power Pauses and Adult Recess Megan has developed the concept of power pauses, short, intentional breaks for breathwork, stretching, or light movement. These re-energize participants during long events, especially after meals. She frames them as “adult recess,” making wellness fun, inclusive, and highly effective for engagement and focus. Wellness at Events Megan integrates yoga, breathwork, and energizing breaks into conferences and events, both in Maui and virtually. She often starts mornings with grounding practices, weaves in power pauses throughout the agenda, and closes with mindful exercises. Her keynote, Habits of a Happy Human: Small Shifts for a Chaotic World, adds another layer of impact, helping participants stay engaged, energized, and connected. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Megan Nolan On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/38185235

287: Fall Reads: Five Game-Changing Books for Small Business Owners with Eric Rozenberg 09/09/2025

287: Fall Reads: Five Game-Changing Books for Small Business Owners with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric shares five standout books he read this summer. As a passionate reader of 25–30 books a year, he found these books particularly impactful for both business and life. The Last Lecture — Randy Pausch & Jeffrey Zaslow This moving and timeless book was written by computer science professor Randy Pausch, as his final lecture after getting a terminal diagnosis. It blends philosophy, practical wisdom, and personal stories, offering lessons on living with purpose, nurturing relationships, and leaving a legacy. It is a book to hold onto for life, and to pass on to the next generation. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals — Oliver Burkeman Burkeman reframes time management by reminding us we only have about 4,000 weeks on earth. Instead of chasing endless productivity, he shows how to prioritize what truly matters. The book combines humor, philosophy, and practical tools for blocking, organizing, and auditing time. It is valuable for both business and personal life. Living with a SEAL: 31 Days Training with the Toughest Man on the Planet — Jesse Itzler In this book, entrepreneur Jesse Itzler recounts a month of intense training with a Navy SEAL. His experience is raw, funny, and motivating, pushing readers to go beyond excuses and embrace discipline, resilience, and grit. It is a high-energy reminder that we are capable of far more than we think. Make Your Own Luck: Success Tactics You Won’t Learn in Business School — Peter Kash Written by entrepreneur and venture capitalist Peter Kash, this book explores how to create luck by preparing, persevering, and being open to opportunity. Through vivid personal stories, he shows how readiness and mindset can transform challenges into breakthroughs. It is a guide to moving forward, even in uncertain times. Fool Me Once: Scams, Stories, and Secrets from the Trillion-Dollar Fraud Industry — Kelly Richmond Pope In this book, forensic accounting professor Kelly Richmond Pope reveals the hidden world of fraud, from small-town scandals to billion-dollar schemes. Drawing on her TED Talk and Netflix documentary All the Queen’s Horses, she highlights the risks of misplaced trust and the importance of vigilance in business. It is an eye-opening and essential read for entrepreneurs. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Book links: /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/38113615

286: PR Parenting: Lessons for Entrepreneurs and Event Leaders with Marjie Hadad 09/02/2025

286: PR Parenting: Lessons for Entrepreneurs and Event Leaders with Marjie Hadad Today, we are delighted to welcome Marjie Hadad as our guest. Marjie is a PR expert who has spent the last 4 decades working in media and public relations in various countries. She currently assists private individuals and individual business owners. Marjie joins us today to share her insights and experience. Tune in to find out how to become more successful in your business and at home. Marjie’s Journey Marjie has spent 40 years in media and public relations, working as a reporter, anchor, and producer, and she even won an Emmy Award. She later became an agent in the modeling industry before launching her PR career. For the past 25 years, she has run her own firm, working with clients globally and specializing in medical and venture capital. Speaking and Training Today, Marjie focuses on professional speaking and leadership training. Her work focuses on teaching individuals and companies to use communication and PR skills strategically to achieve their goals. Internal and External PR Marjie explains that PR applies internally and externally, and that success comes from clear, strategic communication on both levels. Internally, leaders must communicate a vision to inspire their teams. Externally, they should craft and share important messages with their target audience to build partnerships, launch products, or raise funds. Winning Clients Through Communication For small businesses, everything starts with the unmet needs of the client. Good communication begins with listening, then positioning your expertise as the solution. Your key messages should reflect how you want people to remember you after the conversation. Marjie recommends going beyond talk and showing your potential clients what you can deliver. Handling Social Media and Cancel Culture For adverse online reactions, Marjie advises people to remain positive and professional. She explains that every comment does not require a reply, and sometimes, the best move is to stay silent. If you do engage, keep it respectful and professional, addressing disrespect calmly, deleting toxic remarks, or inviting the person to continue the conversation privately. The key is to remain composed and protect your reputation while deciding which approach best fits the situation. Building Company Culture Constructive guidance, support, and recognition foster loyalty and performance. Leaders within organizations should rally their teams around a shared vision and show how their contributions matter. They should also view mistakes as learning opportunities rather than reasons to humiliate people. Utilizing her PR Skills Marjie has even applied PR strategies in her family life, which she detailed in her book, The Power of PR Parenting. She applied communication tools, such as crisis management, presentations, and constructive contracts, to raise her children into confident, resilient adults. Her mistakes became lessons, and she reinforced her expectations with agreements. Communication Across Generations When it comes to younger generations and technology, Marjie does not see texting as a threat but rather as another mode of communication with its own language. She stresses the importance of giving children real-life opportunities to practice social and communication skills so technology becomes an addition rather than a replacement for human interaction. Bio: Marjie Hadad Marjie Hadad has been in media and public relations for 40 years. She is a globally recognized public relations expert, a former television news journalist, an award-winning television producer, and an award-winning author. Specializing in medical and venture capital PR, she designs strategic programs to support the business, clinical, and personal objectives of her clients. A dynamic professional speaker and executive coach, Marjie empowers teams to use THEIR public relations skills to solve various problems and achieve organizational, professional, and personal goals. Her diverse career includes roles as an agent at Ford Model Management in Boston and a media liaison for the Consulate General of Israel to New England. She is the founder of Must Have Communications and Consulting. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Marjie Hadad On her /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/38003910

285: What Buffett Never Said (But Every Small Business Owner Must Hear Before 2025 Ends) 08/26/2025

285: What Buffett Never Said (But Every Small Business Owner Must Hear Before 2025 Ends) Now is a great time to reflect on both personal milestones and business goals! Planning your priorities now can set you up for a strong finish to this year and prepare you for a successful start to 2026. Transitions and Emotional Awareness When your children start school or college, it can be emotionally intense as it reminds you how quickly time passes. Embracing the emotions of those moments can help you process change while you focus on other areas of life. Planning Your Year-End Goals With roughly 85 working days left in the year, it is essential to define what you want to accomplish before this year comes to an end. You should also start thinking about next year. Using Mind Maps Effectively Mind maps make it easier to translate abstract ideas into actionable steps. They can help you organize your ideas, set your priorities, and clarify your objectives. Mind mapping is a technique popularized by Tony Buzan that visually allows you to structure ideas around a central topic. Mapping your thoughts for the rest of this year and next will help you to identify your priorities and avoid distractions. The 25-5 Rule Prioritization is the key. Identify your top 25 goals first, then select the five of your most critical objectives. Focus on those five, and deliberately avoid distractions from the remaining 20. That will ensure your energy goes toward what truly matters. Eric explains that even if the famous Warren Buffett story about this method is unverified, the principle of disciplined prioritization is still powerful. Action and Focus Once you have set your priorities, dedicate your energy to achieving your top goals. The rest of the year will go quickly, so focus on what matters most to determine your success, both personally and professionally. Preparing now will set the stage for a productive and fulfilling year-end and a strong start to 2026. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37925530

284: Beyond Logistics: How to Create the World’s Most Welcoming Events with Kelly Knowlen 08/19/2025

284: Beyond Logistics: How to Create the World’s Most Welcoming Events with Kelly Knowlen We are delighted to welcome Kelly Knowlen, currently the Vice President of Sales Engagement and Special Events at Hilton, as our guest today. Kelly joins us today to share her career journey and talk about her work in the meetings and events industry. This episode will be of particular interest to event planners who own their businesses and want to increase their engagement, using events as a strategic tool for their organizations. Bio: Kelly Knowlen Kelly Knowlen is a dynamic leader in the global hospitality industry with over 30 years of experience at Hilton, where she currently serves as Vice President, Sales Engagement and Special Events. In this role, she leads the execution and strategic priorities of Hilton Worldwide Sales customer events, industry events, and internal conferences for the Americas. Under her leadership, Hilton has launched groundbreaking initiatives such as the World’s Most Welcoming Events campaign, which leverages original research to unveil the future of the meetings and events industry. In recent years, Knowlen led the commercial workstreams to create and launch Hilton EventReady with CleanStay and the EventReady Playbook, a proprietary tool providing curated resources for teams and event planner customers. Before her current role, she spearheaded the launch of Global Week of Sales and Ready to Rise, two global initiatives focused on increasing sales engagement across the enterprise. Beginning her Hilton career as a Sales Manager at DoubleTree Concourse in Atlanta, Knowlen has since held more than 10 key positions, including Director of Sales and Marketing at several Hilton properties. Her journey continued as Regional Director of Sales and Marketing and into critical roles at Hilton Corporate, working in sales operations, global engagement, and events. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Kelly Knowlen On Email Kelly Knowlen: /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37813595

283: Beyond the Next Event: How to Grow a Business That Lasts with Eric Rozenberg 08/12/2025

283: Beyond the Next Event: How to Grow a Business That Lasts with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric shares a recent coaching experience he had with an entrepreneur who was hesitant to grow her business because she was happy with her current setup and did not feel the need to expand. Stay tuned as Eric takes a closer look at whether or not that way of working is, in fact, sustainable. Growth Can Create Freedom Staying small might feel comfortable, but constantly jumping from one project to the next leaves little room for personal time or long-term progress. Growth allows business owners to step back from their daily tasks and invest their time where it truly matters- on clients, strategy, and the parts of the business they enjoy most. Delegation Is Essential Delegating is about sustainability rather than relinquishing control. Many entrepreneurs wait too long before trusting someone else with parts of their business, which often leads to burnout. Delegation makes space for high-level focus and prevents the business from becoming overwhelming. Representation The most valuable contribution a business owner can make is representing the company and nurturing relationships, which includes sales, brand presence, and staying in touch with clients and prospects. Those are all time-consuming tasks, and the only way to prioritize them is by letting go of lower-level responsibilities. 80 Percent Is Good Enough Client satisfaction should guide your decisions around delegation, not perfectionism. No one will do things exactly the way you do. So, even if someone can only deliver 80 percent of your standard on your behalf, and the client is still satisfied, that is okay. Personal Lessons from Early Burnout In the early years of his corporate events business, Eric believed no one could serve his clients as well as he could. So, he avoided delegating, fearing it would compromise his brand. This mindset led to exhaustion, and he nearly burned out. Only after hiring a project manager did he realize clients were happy even without his constant presence. That allowed him to build systems and focus on growth. Start with a Long-Term Vision You cannot make aligned decisions without a long-term vision. Defining what you want your life and business to look like in 10 years will give you the clarity to act with purpose. That clarity is also the foundation of strategic growth. Develop the Right Mindset Entrepreneurship is not linear. It is a rollercoaster of unpredictable challenges. To be successful, you must be mentally prepared, able to manage stress and stay focused on the reason you started. Surrounding yourself with the right kind of support and using tools like journaling and meditation can help you remain grounded. Manage the Chaos Running a business means juggling high-level strategy with everyday tasks. Unpredictable factors add to the stress, especially in fast-moving industries. Learning to navigate the chaos is essential for staying grounded and moving forward. Stay Consistent Progress comes from steady effort, not big leaps. Small, repeated actions will create meaningful change over time. Even when momentum feels slow, doing a little bit every day will impact your long-term results and the growth of your business. Sustainable Growth Requires All Three By combining your long-term vision with a strong mindset and daily consistency, you can create a foundation for healthy, sustainable business growth. Without those, it becomes much harder to build something lasting and fulfilling. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37715125

282: The Art of Saying No: How to Ditch Bad Clients and Attract Better Ones with Eric Rozenberg 08/05/2025

282: The Art of Saying No: How to Ditch Bad Clients and Attract Better Ones with Eric Rozenberg Have you ever felt that a client was not the right fit for you, yet you ignored your gut feeling and worked with them anyway? In this episode, Eric shares two examples of similar situations he experienced in his professional journey, explaining how he handled them and what he learned along the way. Trust Your Instincts It is essential to recognize when a potential client or project does not align with your values, standards, or business model. Ignoring your instincts when your gut tells you a client is not the right fit will likely lead to lots of frustration down the line. Know Your Worth Never compromise your pricing just to win business. If a client pressures you to reduce your fees, always stand firm when you know your pricing is fair and reflects the quality of your work. Let Go When Respect Isn’t Mutual Walk away from clients who fail to respect your work. Even though it may feel risky, it will protect your integrity and lead to better opportunities. Set Clear Boundaries Define the kind of clients you want to work with and the fees you need to sustain your business. By filtering out unsuitable clients, you ensure your business remains profitable and focused. Deliver Exceptional Work When you commit to a client, always over-deliver as your excellence will earn trust and repeat business. Long-Term Thinking Prioritize sustainable relationships over quick wins. You may miss some deals that way, but you will build a stronger and more respected business over time. Understand Your Clients Take the time to understand your client’s needs, goals, and expectations. Always ask the right questions upfront to ensure your offer aligns with their objectives and avoid future misunderstandings. Communicate Your Values Be clear about how you work, your expectations, and what your clients can count on. Transparency helps to establish trust and discourages potential clients unaligned with your approach. There Are Always Better Clients Do not hold on to difficult or undervaluing clients out of fear. There are many respectful and collaborative clients out there who are willing to pay fair rates. When you are clear about the type of clients you want to attract and learn to say no to those who are not the right fit, you create space to find partners who truly support your values. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37640305

281: Time, Solitude, and Sanity with Eric Rozenberg 07/29/2025

281: Time, Solitude, and Sanity with Eric Rozenberg Life as an entrepreneur can often feel lonely. Being a solopreneur or small business owner in the meetings and events industry is a wonderful experience. However, with all the stress and challenges entrepreneurs face, they often find themselves alone, with no one to share their wins, doubts, and fears with. In this episode, Eric reads an excerpt from the book he is currently reading and shares some valuable tips to help entrepreneurs avoid loneliness. Digital Nomads Unlike traditional nomads who rely on each other, digital nomads often go it alone. In his book 4000 Weeks, Oliver Burkeman explains that digital nomads, despite the appealing lifestyle, can feel lonely. They travel the world but miss the shared routines that create strong relationships. Remote Work Without casual, in-person conversations, those who work remotely miss out on spontaneous connections. So entrepreneurs need to be intentional about meeting others and making space for interaction. Build a Circle of Advisors or Join a Community One solution is to create a board of advisors for your business. They should be people you trust and respect, and those you can share authentically with about the highs and lows of your business. You can also join a community of other entrepreneurs. The key is to make it a regular habit because if it is not on your calendar, it is unlikely to happen. Reconnect With What Matters Take time to pause and reflect on what truly matters to you. Ensure your daily actions are moving your business in the right direction, and keep your long-term vision in focus to remain grounded. Stay Flexible and Open Growth requires curiosity and adaptability. As a business owner, you must be willing to try new tools, adopt new services, and explore different ways of working. Keep Your Vision in Focus Regularly check in with your long-term goals. Stay open to learning and be willing to embrace new tools, services, and ways of working that support that vision. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Book Mentioned: by Oliver Burkeman /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37543655

280: Adapt or Get Left Behind: Why Tech is Non-Negotiable for Small Businesses with Eric Rozenberg 07/22/2025

280: Adapt or Get Left Behind: Why Tech is Non-Negotiable for Small Businesses with Eric Rozenberg Technology is no longer just a helpful tool for running small businesses. It has become the lifeline for small business success. In this episode, Eric clarifies why technology is now non-negotiable when running a successful small business. Tune in to learn why, as a small business owner, you must either evolve and adapt or risk getting left behind. AI Blackmail An article on Entropic described a test scenario where AI named specific (fictional) people and made a blackmail demand. Even though the situation was fabricated for testing purposes, it highlighted the potential dangers of advanced AI behavior. A Double-Edged Sword Every major invention in history has had the potential for great harm and tremendous benefit. The outcome depends entirely on how humans choose to use these tools. AI is no exception. It represents a societal shift similar to the Industrial Revolution, with its presence growing across all industries. Today, adaptation is essential, especially in the meetings and events space, where technology is now deeply integrated. Those who ignore it risk becoming irrelevant. From Fax Machines to Automation During his early business days in Brussels, Eric used to manually collect faxed proposals in the evenings after doing sales visits by day. Now, 70% of that work can be automated. Standard proposals and client-facing documents can now be systematized using technology, drastically reducing the time and effort required. People vs. Tech In the past, hiring a high-level executive assistant in Belgium came at a significant cost to Eric due to their high social security contributions. Today, however, business owners can find skilled virtual assistants anywhere in the world for a fraction of the cost. Smarter Prospecting with AI Aspects of prospecting that used to take hours of manual outreach before can now be streamlined with CRM systems and AI. By scanning the online presence of a prospect through their LinkedIn profile, AI can recommend tailored messaging and communication strategies, making outreach faster, more personal, and far more effective. Embrace AI Now Now is the time to embrace AI and new technologies. Those who do so will be better positioned for success. So, whether you are starting a new business or evolving an existing one, tech literacy is a must. Face-to-Face Is Still Irreplaceable Even with the rise of AI, the human connection is likely to become more valuable, not less, as people always crave genuine, in-person experiences. Bio: Eric Rozenberg Eric is a business builder and the founder of Event Business Formula, the only platform exclusively dedicated to helping and supporting business owners in the Meetings & Events Industry. He has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their businesses better. For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award-winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches, and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. His podcast "The Business of Meetings" is the first podcast in the Meetings & Events Industry dedicated to business owners and the largest source of free information, with over 240 episodes and fabulous guests. His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the « Why? » of a meeting. It has been endorsed by 20 of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds. His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to My Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. Eric was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meeting Professionals International (MPI). Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37437010

279: Pause, Recharge, Thrive: Why Breaks Are Good for Business 07/15/2025

279: Pause, Recharge, Thrive: Why Breaks Are Good for Business Eric knows that taking three weeks off each year is a European concept, yet he believes that it is up to each entrepreneur to decide for themselves when and how they choose to switch off. In this episode, he explains that it is not just about the time you take off, but rather about being intentional with how you recharge. He also shares the playful out-of-office email message he set up during the three weeks he recently spent in North Carolina. Decide How You Disconnect As an entrepreneur, you get to choose how and when you disconnect. Some people prefer complete time off, while others are okay with handling a few urgent tasks here and there. What matters is being intentional about taking breaks and allowing yourself the time to recharge and connect with your loved ones. No Need to Wait for Holidays Without regular rest, your creativity, focus, and overall effectiveness will gradually decline. However, there is no need to wait for holidays to recharge. Skipping work on Saturdays, setting aside time to meditate, and taking short breaks during the week can help you stay focused and energized. You Are Not Always Needed With the right systems and support in place, your constant presence is not necessary as an entrepreneur. You may feel you need to stay connected initially, but over time, you will see that taking a step back does not mean that everything falls apart. It is also essential to understand that if a client cannot respect the time you take off, they may not be the right client for you. Protect Your Time Make a habit of scheduling time for yourself each day and week, and switch off completely during holidays. Spending time with the people you care about and doing the things that energize you while giving your mind a break from business concerns is the best way to recharge. Out-of-Office Message During his recent time off, Eric set up a creative and funny out-of-office email response. In it, he explained that he was away, offered a contact for urgent matters, and encouraged senders to imagine where he might be. The message reflected his personality while setting clear boundaries, showing that it is possible to unplug without being dull or overly formal. Bio: Eric Rozenberg Eric is a business builder and the founder of Event Business Formula, the only platform exclusively dedicated to helping and supporting business owners in the Meetings & Events Industry. He has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their businesses better. For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award-winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches, and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. His podcast "The Business of Meetings" is the first podcast in the Meetings & Events Industry dedicated to business owners and the largest source of free information, with over 240 episodes and fabulous guests. His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the « Why? » of a meeting. It has been endorsed by 20 of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds. His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to My Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. Eric was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meeting Professionals International (MPI). Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37371145

278: Your Hard Work Might be Hurting Your Business… Not Just your Personal Life and Health with Bill Gallagher 07/08/2025

277: Turning Pain Points into Profits: Lil Roberts’ Founder Journey with Lil Roberts 07/01/2025

276: Certainty in Uncertain Times: Focus on What You Can Control with Eric Rozenberg 06/24/2025

276: Certainty in Uncertain Times: Focus on What You Can Control with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric tackles the truth about uncertainty. Many business owners and entrepreneurs find uncertainty unbearable. Eric points out that if you, as a business owner, do not learn the art of navigating uncertain times, you may need to reconsider whether it is genuinely the right industry for you. Uncertainty Feels Tougher Without a Plan A friend of Eric, living in Israel, recently made the striking observation that he finds frequent missile alerts easier to handle than the uncertainty of running a business. That is because he has prepared himself for those situations. So, when an alarm sounds, he knows exactly what to do. However, navigating uncertainty in business is much harder because there is no clear structure or step-by-step plan to follow. The truth is that uncertainty becomes far more manageable when you have a plan. Nothing Ever Goes According to Plan With decades of experience running meetings and events worldwide, the constant that always stands out to Eric is that things never go exactly as planned, and disruptions are the norm. So, even though we cannot control everything, we can always control how we respond to it. When we learn to adapt and prepare ourselves with alternative plans, it makes all the difference! Focus on What You Can Control Control is not about fixing every problem. It is about identifying the next best step you can take. When unexpected challenges arise, the solution lies in focusing on controllable factors. Proactive problem-solving, negotiation, and networking help us create viable paths forward. Keep Perspective During Chaos When stress builds, especially in uncertain times, return to your values, your purpose, and the progress you have made. Uncertainty will always exist, but so will your capacity to adapt, find solutions, and do what truly matters. That is often the only certainty you will need. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/37096165

275: Unplug to Reconnect: Rethinking Hospitality and Unique Experiences with Eric Moeller 06/17/2025

274: From FIFA to the Founding Fathers: How Travel is Fueling America's Future with Kevin Hinton 06/10/2025

273: DEI Exposed: How Ideology Fuels Division and Antisemitism with Stanley K. Ridgley, PhD 06/03/2025

273: DEI Exposed: How Ideology Fuels Division and Antisemitism with Stanley K. Ridgley, PhD We are honored to welcome the distinguished Dr. Stanley K. Ridgley, author of the recently released book DEI Exposed, as our guest today. Dr. Ridgley is a well-traveled and highly respected educator with a reputation for delivering insight with clarity and impact. In his book, he addresses one of the most widely discussed and contentious topics in our industry today, substantiating his arguments with well-researched factual evidence. Silence implies complicity, so Eric never shies away from tough conversations, especially with those who can back their ideas with proven facts. Join us to hear Dr. Ridgley’s clear-sighted and thought-provoking perspective on the truth about DEI. What DEI Has Become The original purpose of DEI, which stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, was to ensure fairness, opportunity, and support for disadvantaged groups. However, in practice, it has evolved into something quite different. Rather than fostering genuine inclusion, DEI programs are increasingly excluding Jewish students, tolerating antisemitism, and enforcing a rigid ideological framework that leaves no room for open dialogue. The bureaucracy behind DEI has grown massive, and those running it seldom face accountability, even when harm occurs. Rot at the Core of Academia Some of the most prestigious universities, including Harvard and Columbia, fail to address this issue and even reward bad behavior. Students who harass or physically attack their Jewish peers get promoted, hired by the university, or given recognition, while the victims get overlooked. That reflects a complete collapse in moral standards, with academic freedom and intellectual honesty eroded by fear, favoritism, and ideological loyalty. Talented researchers and students are being pushed away from these institutions in search of places where truth and fairness still matter. The Silence of Feminist and LGBTQ+ Groups Organizations that claim to defend human rights, such as feminist groups and LGBTQ+ advocates, have remained noticeably silent about the rapes of Israeli women and the persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals in Palestinian territories. Yet those groups condemn Israel based on the narrative that it is a settler-colonial state. Their silence is not just disappointing. It reveals a clear double standard based on ideological alignment rather than principle. Is Ideology More Important Than Reality? A growing trend in universities and activist spaces is to prioritize ideology over reality. People follow a script. They repeat terms like settler colonialism or perform symbolic rituals like land acknowledgments without stopping to question their meaning or validity. That mindset discourages critical thinking and turns academic spaces into nothing more than echo chambers. Neutrality is Not Morality When people stay silent in the face of antisemitism and extremism or claim that it is too political to take a stance, they are not being neutral. They are being complicit. Avoiding uncomfortable truths out of fear of losing a job or facing criticism is understandable, but it allows injustice to flourish. Saying nothing is not a virtue. It is a form of surrender that weakens the very foundations of free and fair societies. There is a Better Way If the goal is to help disadvantaged students, there is a straightforward solution. If support is offered based on economic need, many groups that DEI aims to help could benefit, without the need for racial preferences or divisive identity politics. A financial-aid-based approach would be both legal and practical, and far more inclusive. It would also eliminate the need for bloated DEI departments that create more division than unity. Expose the Hypocrisy Loudly Change will only happen when people are willing to speak up and ask the hard questions, like Why are Jewish students being left out of DEI programs? Why are certain groups exempt from criticism even when they commit violence or uphold oppression? Why are academic institutions rewarding behavior that goes against their own stated values? Those questions are uncomfortable but necessary. The time for silence is over. Only through clarity, honesty, and courage will things improve. Dr. Ridgley’s Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Stanley K. Ridgley On his (Drexel University) /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/36765010

272: "it depends!" - What every Event Entrepreneur needs to know: Legal Advice with Barbara Dunn 05/27/2025

271: Leading Starts with You: Mental Wellness for Business Owners with Eric Rozenberg 05/20/2025

271: Leading Starts with You: Mental Wellness for Business Owners with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric dives into the importance of self-care and focusing on mental health, particularly during times of uncertainty. Stay tuned as Eric shares practical ways to remain grounded and support your well-being, even when things feel unpredictable. A Late-Night Emergency in Sardinia While organizing a sales meeting for a medical device company in Sardinia, Eric experienced a powerful reminder of why health must come first. In the early morning, as his team was wrapping up video edits for a final presentation, he found a man lying unconscious with blood coming from his head. The man had fallen and hit the corner of a table. Acting Quickly—Even Against Protocol Eric contacted the head of the company, who happened to be a trained nurse practitioner. She warned that moving the man could be risky, but leaving him could be worse. When the hotel insisted on following procedure before calling a doctor, Eric bypassed protocol. He contacted his local partner, who helped him find an ambulance meant for another injured guest and had the man transferred to the hospital. The next evening, the man was back at the bar with a bandage on his head. He had just had too much to drink the night before. The Lesson: Take Ownership of Your Health That incident reinforced something Eric believes firmly: if you fail to take care of yourself, no one else will. In uncertain times, the only thing we can truly control is how we show up for ourselves. We may not be able to influence global events, but we can impact our health, mindset, and those around us. Making Health Your Priority Even though most people know what to do to stay healthy, when under stress, those habits tend to slip away. So, Eric encourages us to follow a morning routine that involves meditation, exercise, or writing. He reminds us that the challenge is not about knowledge. It is about making your health a consistent priority. Start with One Hour a Day In an unpredictable world, a daily routine can provide stability. Eric encourages everyone to block one hour each morning, even if it means waking up an hour earlier, and do whatever you can to support your well-being. That could be meditating, moving, reading, or writing. Eric reminds us that the best way to help others is by taking care of yourself first. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/36599655

270: The Impact of AI on Conscious Decision-Making with Didi Aurelia 05/13/2025

269: Clarity in Uncertain Times: Three Moves Every Business Owner Should Make Now with Eric Rozenberg 05/06/2025

268: The Business Case for Joy: Amanda Gore on Building High-Impact Teams 04/29/2025

268: The Business Case for Joy: Amanda Gore on Building High-Impact Teams Today, we are delighted to welcome Amanda Gore, an Australian powerhouse from the Speaker Hall of Fame, as our guest. Amanda is a phenomenal communicator who blends her sharp insights with humor and heart, offering fresh perspectives on joy, emotional intelligence, change, management, and leadership. Get ready to laugh and learn as Amanda shares her story and powerful insights that have inspired her audiences worldwide. Emotional Intelligence Emotional intelligence (EQ) is more important than technical skills in leadership and life. EQ helps people navigate conflict, build trust, and maintain strong relationships. If someone feels psychologically safe, they will be more productive, creative, and loyal. The Brain Reacts First, Thinks Later The brain is wired for survival. So, when people feel threatened by someone's tone, body language, or words, they shift into fight-or-flight mode, making calm conversation almost impossible. Understanding that can help you lead with compassion and avoid escalation. Emotional Contagion Your emotional state does not stay with you. It spreads. The heart's magnetic field changes as your feelings change, which affects everyone around you. That is why a calm leader can anchor a room, and a stressed leader can wreck it. Lead Yourself First Leadership starts with managing your internal world, knowing what triggers you, and regulating how you respond in stressful situations. Self-awareness is the key because if you are emotionally reactive, you cannot guide others effectively. Simple Tools Regulate Big Emotions Regulating your emotions helps you stay grounded when things get tense. You do not need complicated methods to self-regulate. Breathing slowly and deeply while focusing on your heart area or just naming what you feel will allow you to shift your state almost instantly. Everyone Carries Invisible Baggage Most conflict stems from unmet emotional needs. People tend to react out of fear that they are not good enough, not safe enough, or do not belong. Keeping that in mind helps you respond with empathy instead of judging. Stay Connected in Conflict Instead of turning someone into the problem, it is better to externalize the issue. That way, both individuals can stay connected and tackle the problem together. So you can protect the relationship while still addressing what needs to change. Joy Culture starts with energy, not strategy. Joy is not just a nice-to-have feeling- it fuels performance. You can create more joy in your team by starting your meetings with gratitude, recognizing the wins, and being intentional about how you show up. Reframing Change The brain resists change because it does not like uncertainty. However, change is necessary for growth. Reframing change as a challenge instead of a threat will help you adapt faster and stay open to new possibilities. Focus Shapes Reality Your area of focus rewires your brain and shapes your relationships. Where your attention goes, your energy flows. Focus on the good in people; you will likely find more of it. If you focus on threats, however, you will create a defensive environment. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Amanda Gore On her Email Amanda: /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/36296580

267: From Token to Transformative: Making Boards Work with Marc Stockli 04/22/2025

267: From Token to Transformative: Making Boards Work with Marc Stockli The Business of Meetings – Episode 267: From Token to Transformative: Making Boards Work with Marc Stockli We are thrilled to welcome Marc Stockli, an accomplished entrepreneur from Switzerland, as our guest today. With over 20 years of business experience, Marc has chaired the Global Board of the Entrepreneurs Organization and has also become an author. Join us as Marc shares his journey and gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book, Make Boards Work. Bio: Marc Stockli: Marc O. Stockli has benefited from a unique perspective for many years in developing and writing this book. Marc has also been a public speaker to thousands of entrepreneurs in more than 30 countries. Marc has been exposed to board work from early on in his career. First, as a young investment banker, and later a strategy consultant for world-renowned professional services firms. Later on, as an entrepreneur and investor. In sum, he has prepared for, attended, and reflected on about 200 board meetings overall. This profound experience has been gained globally, allowing Marc to provide unique insights and disclose hidden opportunities. Marc O. Stockli is a co-founder and former CEO of Totemo, whose cybersecurity products are used by 1,500 corporations and more than 3.5 million licensed users. Totemo was sold to Palo Alto-based Kiteworks in December 2021. Marc is an active investor, board member, and coach for entrepreneurial companies and teams in technology and financial services. He acts in such capacity for Amwell (IPO on NYSE in September 2020), Beekeeper, Merantix, Lucy Security (sold to ThriveDX in February 2022), Vara, CleanHub, or Format Vermögen & Anlagen, to name but a few. Previously, Marc worked in corporate finance in Hong Kong, Tokyo, and New York, as well as strategy consulting with BCG. He holds a law degree from the University of St. Gallen HSG and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Marc recently served as the Global Chairman of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (“EO”, more than 19,000 members in more than 70 countries). Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Marc Stockli On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/36200660

266: Automate, Optimize, and Thrive: Ari Meisel’s Blueprint for Entrepreneurs with Ari Meisel 04/15/2025

266: Automate, Optimize, and Thrive: Ari Meisel’s Blueprint for Entrepreneurs with Ari Meisel We are delighted to welcome Ari Meisel, the king of efficiency and productivity, as our guest today. Ari has written a book called Less Doing More Living. Everything he writes and shares is about efficiency, and there is always something relevant for small business owners to apply. So, if you own a small business and are looking for ways to increase your productivity and operate more efficiently, stay tuned. You are in for a real treat! Bio: Ari Meisel I Help Entrepreneurs Become Replaceable Brooklyn, New York, United States Summary: Hello, I'm Ari Meisel- a world-renowned productivity expert, author, and passionate advocate for optimized living. My journey began with my own struggles against chronic illness, leading me to develop the Less Doing, More Living productivity system. Today, I'm fortunate to share my insights with thousands of individuals and organizations worldwide, empowering them to achieve more by doing less. Authorship: Published works in the field of productivity, efficiency, and stress management. My writing serves as an influential guide for those aiming to reclaim their time and energy. Woodworking Enthusiast: Beyond my professional life, I have a deep-rooted love for woodworking. The craftsmanship involved is not just a hobby; it's a practice that also informs my philosophy about the importance of focus, detail, and dedication in all pursuits. Community Service: As a volunteer EMT and Lieutenant at our local rescue squad in Princeton, New Jersey, I'm committed to giving back to the community. These experiences have imbued me with valuable leadership and crisis-management skills. Future Ambitions: I plan on running for local office to drive transformative changes at a community level. My vision includes improved healthcare access, innovative education programs, and sustainable practices that can make Princeton an example for other cities to follow. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Ari Meisel On Buy a copy of by Ari Meisel /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/36120205

265: ENCORE: Inside the Mind of an FBI Negotiator: Chris Voss 04/08/2025

264: ENCORE The Amazing Story of the Savannah Bananas with Jesse Cole 04/01/2025

264: ENCORE The Amazing Story of the Savannah Bananas with Jesse Cole We are excited to have the legendary Jesse Cole joining us today! In today's episode, Jesse shares the incredible story behind how he and his wife, Emily, started the famous Savannah Bananas! He also gets into where they are today and how he leverages the Savannah Bananas for his projects! We hope you enjoy listening to today’s super-motivating conversation with Jesse Cole! Bio: Jesse Cole is the founder of Fans First Entertainment and the owner of the Savannah Bananas. He’s a fanatic about fandom and launched the Savannah Bananas with one mission: to spark a fan-focused movement. Whether at the ballpark, on social media, onstage delivering keynotes, in features for ESPN and Entrepreneur, or in his first book, Find Your Yellow Tux, Jesse continues to create fans all over the world. The Bananas have sold out every game since their first season and have a waitlist for tickets in the thousands. They have entertained millions of fans in Savannah and at ballparks all over their country on their Banana Ball Tour. Jesse is the proud inventor of Banana Ball and Dolce & Banana underwear and a not-so-proud promoter of the Human Horse Race and Flatulence Fun Night. He’s a raving fan of his wife, Emily, his kids, and peerless promoters like Walt Disney, PT Barnum, and Bill Veeck. Jesse owns seven yellow tuxedos. Jesse’s story Jesse was raised by his dad, who spent hours playing baseball with him and taught him the value of putting in the effort to create something special! Jesse played baseball throughout his life. After getting into the baseball industry about fifteen years ago, he tore his shoulder, and his baseball career ended. So, he started working in the front office and began his journey to where he is today. Savannah Bananas Before starting the Savannah Bananas, Jesse spent ten years with the team in Gastonia, North Carolina. He became their GM when he was twenty-three and had to figure out how to make people excited about going to a baseball game. It was much harder than he anticipated, so he tried doing some crazy things! Then, seven years ago, Jesse and his wife moved to Savannah, Georgia, and had the opportunity to take on an old and historic stadium. Jesse was not successful in selling the way everyone else did because no one took him seriously. So he tried something new. A vision Everything we accomplish in life starts with a vision. Especially in business! Going into Savannah, Jesse and his wife truly believed they could change baseball games, make them fun, and create something people had never seen before! It was tough at first, but they knew their idea would work. Fans first Many companies focus solely on chasing customers. However, early on, Jesse and his wife became obsessed with creating fans and decided to focus on putting their fans first. So they named their company Fans First Entertainment. All-inclusive tickets They decided to make every ticket all-inclusive so that if the game was terrible, the fans would still get some value for their money because everything, including the food, was included. Spicing things up They decided to spice things up and go all-in on creating an entertaining experience. They hired a dancing coach and choreographed dances for the players. They introduced a banana baby that they lifted, celebrated, and sang to at the start of the match. They even handed out roses to little girls in the middle of the game! No more marketing After that, they no longer had to do any marketing. They just shared what they were doing, and people told others about it! ESPN ESPN became aware of what they were doing. So they wrote an article about the Savannah Bananas, which did very well. Then their sports center did a feature on them, which also did very well. Then, Jesse and his wife approached ESPN with an idea they had for a show, and they agreed. The show was highly rated (and still does well today) and led to even bigger things! Making baseball more fun Leaning in on making baseball more fun, offering non-stop entertainment, storytelling, creating memorable moments for fans, and building an idea culture helped them get to where they are today! No more normal Doing normal things gets normal results. So they work from the premise of doing the exact opposite of whatever would be deemed normal. What if Asking what if and trying out new things motivates them to keep finding new and exciting ways to entertain their fans. Secondary ticket sellers Jesse always refused to sell tickets to secondary marketing groups. One group even offered to pay twice the ticket value and buy more than a million dollars worth of tickets. But Jesse refused because that would inflate ticket prices, and hurting their fans goes against everything they stand for. Living the dream Jesse’s dream for the future is to continue chasing the energy they created, making people happy, and dancing in front of fans all over the world! Surrounding yourself with good people When you share your vision, what you stand for, and what you hope to accomplish, you will attract the best people to work for you! Connect with Eric Connect with Jesse Cole Fans First Entertainment: /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/35930645

263: The Noble Profession: Sales & Leadership in Hospitality with Frank Passanante 03/25/2025

263: The Noble Profession: Sales & Leadership in Hospitality with Frank Passanante It is a special day as we welcome a true industry icon to the podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have Frank Passanante, Global Head of Sales at Hilton, joining us for a conversation that has been a long time in the making. Eric has crossed paths with Frank through the MPI Foundation and has been looking forward to having him on the show to share his insights. In this episode, Frank discusses his career, the art of sales, and the enduring strength of the Hilton brand. A Passion for Hospitality from a Young Age Frank's journey into the hospitality industry began in his early teens. While on a family vacation at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, he discovered a book by Conrad Hilton, Be My Guest, which ignited his passion for the hotel business. From that moment, he began working various jobs in hotels and restaurants before specializing in sales. He joined Hilton right after university and has remained in the industry ever since. Sales as a Noble Profession Frank believes sales is a noble profession centered on solving customer problems and providing value. He feels that true sales success comes from genuinely caring about customers and helping them find the right solutions. Frank integrates Lisa McLeod's Philosophy of Selling with Noble Purpose into his sales approach, focusing on customer impact rather than revenue alone. His mindset aligns with Hilton's founding purpose—spreading the light and warmth of hospitality. Building a Strong Sales Culture Recruiting the right people is essential to maintaining a strong company culture. Frank refers to The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni, which identifies three key qualities for success: humility, which prioritizes teamwork and continuous learning; hunger, which drives ambition and goal-setting; and emotional intelligence, which ensures strong interpersonal skills. At Hilton, hiring, training, and performance management are structured around those virtues to create a high-performing, customer-focused sales team. Adapting to Changing Buyer Behavior The landscape of meeting and event services has evolved in the post-COVID era. Modern buyers expect a seamless blend of self-service digital tools and personalized support for more complex needs. So, they developed a three-channel sales strategy at Hilton: digital self-service options that empower customers to research and book independently, direct sales for high-touch transactions requiring expert guidance, and voice-assisted support for critical moments in the buying process. Companies that fail to adapt to these shifting expectations risk missing valuable opportunities in today's rapidly evolving market. AI and Continuous Learning AI and automation are reshaping the industry, so Frank is committed to future-proofing the Hilton sales teams. The company promotes an always-learning mindset and prioritizes a coaching culture. Combining continuous learning with a strong coaching environment ensures that the Hilton sales professionals remain effective and adaptable. Building a Coaching Culture Frank emphasizes the power of coaching in leadership and business success. He stresses the importance of being coachable, asking the right questions, and seeking feedback to progress quickly. His organization holds monthly coaching sessions for leaders, focusing on practicing real-life coaching conversations to build communication skills. The Art of Difficult Conversations Having tough conversations is easier said than done. As a former SaaS CEO, Frank found that employees initially hesitated to voice their concerns. However, by welcoming constructive criticism and encouraging dialogue, he built a culture where feedback became a strength rather than something to fear. Continuous Learning & Expanding Perspectives Frank stays ahead by reading business publications, white papers, and research from Forrester and Gartner rather than constantly chasing new frameworks. He values learning from industries outside his own, believing that cross-industry insights spark fresh ideas. Year of the Travel Maximizer Hilton has identified 2025 as the Year of the Travel Maximizer. Their recent Meetings Maximizer report highlights trends like extreme preparedness, where attendees demand detailed agendas and networking guidance. Hilton developed resources to meet these evolving needs, including the World’s Most Welcoming Events playbook, to help planners create more engaging experiences. Looking Ahead Frank is excited about Hilton's rapid expansion, with over 800 new hotels added in 2024 and 500,000 rooms in the pipeline. Next year, they will celebrate significant openings, including the iconic Waldorf Astoria New York and new Waldorf locations in Sydney and Tokyo. Bio: Frank Passanante Senior Vice President, Global Head of Sales and HRCC, Hilton Frank Passanante sets the B2B strategy for Hilton through all selling channels. He’s passionate about forging strong customer partnerships that drive mutual success, building winning sales teams through intentionally developing a coaching culture, and quickly adapting strategies to meet the continually evolving nature of B2B sales. In his current role as Senior Vice President, Global Head of Sales, and HRCC, Frank collaborates closely with commercial leaders worldwide on coordinated global B2B strategies. He takes great pride in his team of purpose-led sales professionals, who consistently develop meaningful customer relationships and consult on solutions. He describes his team as caring, committed to their clients’ outcomes, and striving to be the best in the business. Frank built and refined his hospitality sales and marketing expertise over three decades, with the vast majority of those years devoted to Hilton in various on-property, regional, and corporate roles. Actively engaged in industry organizations across all travel segments, he has served on the Professional Convention Management Association Board of Directors, the U.S. Travel Association Meetings Mean Business Coalition, and the Events Industry Council APEX Business Recovery Task Force. Currently, he is engaged with the US Travel Association Group Travel Network and the GBTA Allied Leadership Committee. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Frank Passanante On Books mentioned: /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/35830410

262: The Power of Boundaries: Managing Teams and Clients Effectively with Eric Rozenberg 03/18/2025

262: The Power of Boundaries: Managing Teams and Clients Effectively with Eric Rozenberg The Business of Meetings – Episode 262 - The Power of Boundaries: Managing Teams and Clients Effectively with Eric Rozenberg Today, Eric shares his insights on setting boundaries with clients and within teams. In this episode, he highlights examples of how boundaries impact business interactions, leadership, and workplace culture. Setting Boundaries with Clients Establishing boundaries with clients ensures professionalism and prevents burnout. Eric shares an example of a coaching client who declined a weekend meeting request from a prospect, reinforcing her limits. A more flexible approach could involve making an exception but ensuring it should not become the norm. Recognizing when a client repeatedly disregards boundaries is crucial, as it may signal a lack of respect for professional and personal time. Ultimately, business owners must define their availability based on their values and long-term goals. Work-Life Integration Over Balance Business owners must establish boundaries that create a sustainable work environment aligned with their values. Eric believes in work-life integration rather than strict balance. He suggests time-blocking to manage personal and professional commitments. Setting Boundaries with a Team A strong company culture relies on clear expectations. Eric avoids evening and weekend calls and uses send later for emails to prevent after-hours disruptions. However, in true business emergencies, exceptions may be necessary. Generational Shifts in Work Expectations Workplace priorities have evolved. Eric recalls interviewing a trainee who asked about work-life balance, something older generations never considered and previous generations hesitated to address. Today, professionals expect clear boundaries and value companies that respect them. Emergency Situations: When Boundaries Shift Boundaries should be clear, but they must be adaptable when necessary. Eric avoids interrupting personal time. However, urgent situations require flexibility. Final Thoughts Setting and maintaining boundaries is crucial for long-term business success. Entrepreneurs must align their boundaries with business values to ensure professional growth and personal well-being, as limits foster respect and set the foundation for a sustainable and effective work environment. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/35714815

261: Building Club Ichi: The Journey, The Growth & The Partnership with Liz Lathan & Nicole Osibodu 03/11/2025

261: Building Club Ichi: The Journey, The Growth & The Partnership with Liz Lathan & Nicole Osibodu Today, we are excited to welcome two of the most influential and high-energy leaders in the meetings and events industry. The dynamic duo, Liz Lathan and Nicole Osibodu are founders of Club Ichi. Individually, they are powerful, and together, they are dominating the market! Stay tuned as we explore their journey, the vision behind Club Ichi, and the incredible work they are doing to shape the future of our industry! Reinventing the Event Industry Liz and Nicole built their careers in experiential marketing, but they were not satisfied with how the industry operated. They saw a need for more community, innovation, and fresh ideas, and instead of waiting for change, they created it themselves. Through bold projects like Secret Family Reunion and Club Ichi, they are reshaping how event professionals connect, learn, and grow. The Journey to Club Ichi Their journey started with Secret Family Reunion in 2019, an experimental networking event where attendees signed up without knowing the destination. The inaugural trip to Tuscany was successful, proving that people craved immersive, meaningful connections beyond standard industry gatherings. By 2026, they plan to host one final edition to push the concept further. Realizing that the industry needed more than just one-off events, they launched Club Ichi in 2023. The goal was to create a thriving, engaged community of B2B event marketers. It began with a 12-hour digital marathon featuring 75 rapid-fire speakers designed to be high-energy and engaging. The event resonated, and Club Ichi quickly grew into a membership-based platform with thousands of subscribers. Building a Sustainable Business Initially, Liz and Nicole worked as consultants, taking on projects and advising clients. But they knew they needed a more structured, scalable business model. So, with the help of a business coach and tax strategist, they refined their focus, making Club Ichi their primary offering. Instead of chasing one-off projects, they built a long-term vision that serves their members and the broader industry. Evolving Club Ichi Club Ichi is evolving into a media-meets-community platform. Liz and Nicole have big plans, including an industry magazine and a reality show that provides a behind-the-scenes look at global events. They aim to create a sustainable, self-funded business that keeps the event industry fresh, innovative, and connected. Innovating and Supporting the Event Industry Liz and Nicole are actively pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the event industry. Through Club Ichi, they have created a dynamic space where B2B event marketers can connect, collaborate, and learn from each other. Their approach is not just about creating events but fostering an ongoing community of professionals who can rely on each other year-round. Beyond that, they aim to provide deeper insights into the industry with plans for a magazine specifically for insiders, featuring in-depth reports and analysis similar to Fast Company or Wired. They are also working on a reality show that will give event professionals a unique lens to see destinations and events, combining the fun of a travel show with event industry insights. The Future of Club Ichi Next year, they hope to grow Club Ichi to 1,000 premium members, expand their team, and build a profitable, long-term business. Their vision is clear: they want to make the event industry even smarter, more creative, and more connected. Liz and Nicole are not just building a business- they are reshaping the industry! Connect with Eric Rozenberg On Connect with Liz Lathan and Nicole Osibodu /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/35600385

260: Elevating Engagement: Turning Events into Transformational Journeys with Eric Rozenberg 03/04/2025

260: Elevating Engagement: Turning Events into Transformational Journeys with Eric Rozenberg Would you like to know how to create a truly unforgettable business experience? Today, Eric explores the power of engagement and explains how to design unique experiences, sharing insights from an inspiring conference and an example of a past touchpoint that left a lasting impact. Stay tuned for valuable strategies to enhance your engagement and create unforgettable experiences. Focusing on What Never Changes Jeff Bezos focuses on what remains constant because Amazon customers always want lower prices and faster delivery. Applying that to the meetings and events industry, Eric identifies two unchanging factors- the need for in-person gatherings, as nothing replaces human connection, and the demand for unique experiences, as people constantly seek unforgettable one-of-a-kind moments. Examples of Unique Experiences Eric has organized events in over 50 countries, creating exceptional experiences that people will never forget. A standout example is the 1998 FIFA World Cup, where he ensured his clients had premium tickets, even amid the chaos of ticket fraud. The highlight was a Three Tenors concert under the Eiffel Tower. Another remarkable event he designed was a unique dining experience across multiple hotel locations. Insights from the MMT Mastermind Conference Eric recently attended his favorite annual conference, the MMT Mastermind Talk, founded by Jason Gaignard. This event is exceptional due to its year-round engagement, ensuring attendees stay connected beyond the conference. Personalized seating based on in-depth intake forms fosters meaningful conversations, while a carefully curated agenda balances inspiring keynotes with interactive sessions. The conference also offers abundant networking opportunities, leaving participants feeling deeply connected, motivated, and eager to return year after year. Key Takeaways for Business Owners Eric highlights the importance of being intentional about designing engagement. By curating thoughtful touchpoints and creating exclusive experiences, businesses can forge deep connections and ensure long-term success. He encourages business owners to break free from the cycle of short-term projects and focus on building sustainable, thriving enterprises. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/35505700

259: Exceeding Expectations: The Path to Customer Delight with Eric Rozenberg 02/25/2025

259: Exceeding Expectations: The Path to Customer Delight with Eric Rozenberg How can you consistently delight your customers while also providing exceptional value? In business, relationships are everything. Companies prioritizing customer delight set themselves apart, creating lasting impressions and strong customer loyalty. Stay tuned as Eric shares practical insights and examples to help you surprise, delight, and elevate your customer interactions. The Power of Small, Thoughtful Gestures The answer to delighting customers lies in making personal yet meaningful connections. A memorable experience might come from a simple, thoughtful action. For instance, Eric recalls how a small gesture when traveling– a message about his favorite TV show being available in his hotel room, left him with a lasting impression, proving that even a small effort can make customers feel special. Identifying and Improving TouchPoints To truly delight customers, you need to analyze every interaction with them. Mapping out the touch points throughout the entire customer journey allows you to gain insight into potential areas of improvement. By asking, "What could I have done differently?" business owners can uncover opportunities to surprise their customers, enhance their experiences, and exceed their expectations. Surprising Customers with the Unexpected Routine gestures, like sending a Christmas card, might be well-intentioned but fail to stand out. To make a lasting impression, surprise your customers with something unexpected, like recognizing a personal milestone or commemorating a specific event in their company. That can make a big difference, as those thoughtful touches demonstrate your attention to detail and show your customers that you value them. Leveraging Expertise for Strategic Value Customer delight also comes from using your expertise to provide additional value. By aligning your services with your customers' goals and strategies, you can shift from being a service provider to becoming their strategic partner. Customers will appreciate your proactive approach and genuine desire to support their success, and that will strengthen their relationship and build trust. Tough Love and Assertive Support Sometimes, you need to be assertive to help your customers. Offering honest feedback and sharing your expertise, even when that feels difficult, shows that you have their best interests at heart. Taking the initiative to speak up when necessary, even if it means pointing out potential issues, demonstrates your commitment and reliability, which can deepen their trust and improve future outcomes. Bio: Eric Rozenberg Eric is a business builder and the founder of Event Business Formula, the only platform exclusively dedicated to helping and supporting business owners in the Meetings & Events Industry. He has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their business better. For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award-winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches, and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. His podcast, "The Business of Meetings", is the first podcast in the Meetings & Events Industry dedicated to business owners and the largest source of free information with over 240 episodes and fabulous guests. His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the Why? of a meeting. It has been endorsed by 20 of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds. His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to My Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. Eric was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meetings Professional International (MPI). Connect with Eric Rozenberg On /episode/index/show/thebusinessofmeetings/id/35391525

The Business of Meetings

TOPICS