On this episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast, we delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the events industry while emphasizing the enduring importance of human connection. This episode — recorded live at Event Tech Live London — features Colja Dams, Co-CEO of VOK DAMS, in conversation with Miguel Neves, Editor-in-Chief of Skift Meetings. As CEO of VOK DAMS, Dams brings a unique perspective on how technology is reshaping event experiences without compromising their fundamental purpose: bringing people together meaningfully. The conversation explores the fascinating i ..read more

What happens when AI meets authenticity in the meetings world? As we unpack 2024's most significant shifts - from game-changing acquisitions to unprecedented cost pressures - the Skift Meetings editorial team reveals how these developments are catalyzing a fundamental reimagining of events for 2025. Drawing from our comprehensive Skift Meetings Megatrends 2025 report, we explore how today's challenges are spawning tomorrow's innovations: multi-generational event design that spans Gen Z to Boomers, mental health-conscious programming that's reshaping attendee experiences, and sustainability mea ..read more

The highly anticipated Skift Meetings Forum is an event tailored for senior meeting planners that promises a full day of thought-provoking and industry-shaping discussions. Hosted in the inspiring Glasshouse in New York City, this forum is more than just a conference—it’s a space for candid, high-level conversations about the most pressing topics in the meetings industry. From diversity and inclusion to captivating the next generations and geopolitics, the forum’s carefully curated sessions bring together industry heavyweights like Seth Godin and leading CEOs to offer new perspectives and spar ..read more

There’s been a growing backlash against DEI programs in recent years. But for meetings and events, diversity, equity, and inclusion is still important.  For planners, the goal is to expose attendees to a wide range of viewpoints, and for everyone to feel connected – regardless of the political environment.  “We've made DEI this big scary thing,” said Dr. Brandi Baldwin, an organizational and leadership psychologist and CEO of Millennial Ventures. “You don’t do DEI. Just be someone who honors differences. Be someone who is willing to show up as your authentic self and allow others to ..read more

This episode of the Skift Meetings podcast tackles a pressing question: As much as our industry has become consumed with promoting wellness at events, are meetings actually integrating these practices? Skift Meetings editor Barbara Scofidio and executive editor Andrea Doyle are joined by Kelly Bishop, founder of Wellevate Experiences, to explore the gap between wellness ideals and real-world applications. Connect with Skift Meetings LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/skift-meetings X: https://twitter.com/SkiftMeetings Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftmeetings Instagram: https://www.inst ..read more

Join us for an in-depth look at IMEX America 2024, the latest edition of the largest trade show dedicated to meetings, events and incentive travel professionals. With over 15,500 attendees and 86,000 meetings, this year’s IMEX celebrated the global meetings and events sector. We discuss the buzz on the floor, the unique activations, and how Las Vegas’ iconic landscape—amid F1 construction and city-shaping events—added to the drama. Tune in to explore everything from personalized activations to wellness sessions and why baseball stadiums are emerging as the next big venue trend. Connect with Sk ..read more

The nonalcoholic beverage industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by consumer demand for healthier and more sophisticated options. Zero Proofed is one company that is promoting this movement to redefine mocktails and promote mindful drinking.  Challenges include the high sugar content in traditional mocktails, limited menu visibility, and higher costs of premium nonalcoholic spirits. Zero Proofed’s mission aligns with broader movements like "sober curious" and "mindful drinking," advocating for intentional and healthier drinking choices without the drawbacks of alcohol ..read more

In today’s episode, we’re gearing up for one of the biggest events in the meetings and events industry—IMEX America 2024. Join Miguel Neves, Andrea Doyle, and Barbara Scofidio as they discuss their personal experiences, offer valuable tips for navigating the show floor, and share strategies for maximizing your time at IMEX. Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, this episode will guide you through everything from booking appointments and networking to surviving the whirlwind of Vegas. Tune in for expert advice and a look at what’s in store for this year’s IMEX America! Connect wi ..read more

In this episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast, we take a closer look at the Skift Meetings Forum, a one-of-a-kind event that brought together senior meeting planners, thought leaders, and industry experts in the heart of New York. From Seth Godin’s thought-provoking keynote to groundbreaking discussions on diversity, peer-to-peer learning, and the unique venue experience at the Glass House, this episode covers all the key takeaways and lessons shaping the events industry's future. Connect with Skift Meetings LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/skift-meetings X: https://twitter.com/SkiftMeet ..read more

Planners need to rethink every aspect of their events—marketing, hotel and destination choices, room setups, F&B, wellness, gifting and more—with their younger attendees in mind—a candid conversation with one of the top names in event design. Connect with Skift Meetings LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/skift-meetings X: https://twitter.com/SkiftMeetings Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftmeetings Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftmeetings/ Subscribe to @Skift Meetings to discover the future of meetings ..read more