Episodes

  • 171: Future-Proofing: Strategic Planning & Engagement Practices ft Lindsay Martin-Bilbrey
    Jan 31 2025

    In this episode of the Events Demystified podcast, host Anka Platon Trifan dives deep into the world of event strategy, engagement, and the event industry landscape with Lindsay Martin-Bilbrey, CEO of Nifty Method Marketing and Events.. Lindsay shares her extensive knowledge and experience in creating strategic, experience-driven events. Key topics include best practices for enhancing audience engagement, future-proofing events, and the powerful role of data-driven event planning. Lindsay also reflects on her personal experiences and offers invaluable advice for event professionals, meeting planners, and entrepreneurs looking to create memorable and impactful experiences.

    Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with practical tips and expert advice! 00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode 01:47 Meet Our Expert Guest: Lindsay Martin-Bilbrey 02:49 Lindsay's Memorable Event Experience 05:11 The Evolving Role of Event Professionals 08:29 Foundational Elements of Successful Events 10:45 Leveraging Data in Event Planning 14:22 Effective Data Collection Strategies 21:00 Audience Engagement Strategies 23:16 Personalizing Event Experiences 23:51 Speaker Management Challenges 27:13 Ensuring Quality Content 32:25 The Power of Storytelling in Events 37:02 Future Trends in the Event Industry 43:02 Sustainability in Events 45:01 Final Thoughts and Advice --------------------------------------------------------------

    HOST BIO

    Anca Platon Trifan is the Sr. Manager, Strategic Partnerships, Event Technology & AI at M&IW, Founder of ⁠⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events LLC⁠⁠⁠ and the visionary behind #FIT4EVENTS ⁠⁠⁠Fit Mindful Mavens⁠⁠⁠. Anca brings a potent mix of event production savvy, fitness enthusiasm, and transformative innovation to the table. With over two decades in event production, she’s not just any leader—she’s been recognized as one of 2023’s Smart Meetings Catalyst Quantum Leap Award winners, 2023’s Entrepreneur Award winner of Smart Women in Meetings, and 2022’s #WomenToWatch.

    Adding to this glittering list, she’s also a nominee for The Most Influential People in the Events Industry for 2023 by Eventex. Marrying her technical finesse with AI’s latest and greatest, Anca crafts extraordinary events that break the mold. A fervent advocate for women in tech and production, as well as a wellness advocate, Anca is a regular on stages nationwide, exemplifying how event production, tech, and a balanced life can create a seismic shift in both industries and individual lives.

    -------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below: LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/treefan_events/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/⁠⁠ -------------------------------------------------------------- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠ -------------------------------------------------------------- ⁠⁠“Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events. -------------------------------------------------------------- 👉 Episode Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/ 👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this. 👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge. 👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry! 👉 Check out our other episodes for more expert insights and tips.

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    48 mins
  • 170: Mastering AV Production, Event Layouts, Renderings & Contract Relations ft. Jacob WP Ramey
    Jan 17 2025

    Mastering AV Production: Behind the Scenes Insights with Jacob WP Ramey Welcome to the Events Demystified Podcast! In this episode, host Anca Platon Trifan sits down with Jacob WP Ramey, an expert in AV production, to uncover the intricate world of event layouts, renderings, and behind-the-scenes magic. Jacob shares his journey from traditional theater to becoming a go-to specialist in designing immersive AV setups and seamless layouts. They discuss the importance of site visits, the collaboration between AV and event planners, the distinction between technical and design renderings, and the future of AV technology. Tune in for valuable insights, anecdotes, and tips to elevate your next event! 00:00 Introduction to AV Production 01:38 Meet Jacob WP Ramey 02:56 Jacob's Journey into AV 04:38 Importance of Language in AV 06:48 Event Layouts and Renderings 10:01 Site Visits and Real-Life Examples 12:13 Technical vs. Design Renderings 18:34 Collaboration with Event Planners 32:41 Sustainability in AV Production 49:19 Future Trends in AV Technology 53:56 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information


    HOST BIO

    Anca Platon Trifan is the Sr. Manager, Strategic Partnerships, Event Technology & AI at M&IW, Founder of ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events LLC⁠⁠ and the visionary behind #FIT4EVENTS ⁠⁠Fit Mindful Mavens⁠⁠. Anca brings a potent mix of event production savvy, fitness enthusiasm, and transformative innovation to the table. With over two decades in event production, she’s not just any leader—she’s been recognized as one of 2023’s Smart Meetings Catalyst Quantum Leap Award winners, 2023’s Entrepreneur Award winner of Smart Women in Meetings, and 2022’s #WomenToWatch.

    Adding to this glittering list, she’s also a nominee for The Most Influential People in the Events Industry for 2023 by Eventex. Marrying her technical finesse with AI’s latest and greatest, Anca crafts extraordinary events that break the mold. A fervent advocate for women in tech and production, as well as a wellness advocate, Anca is a regular on stages nationwide, exemplifying how event production, tech, and a balanced life can create a seismic shift in both industries and individual lives.


    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    • LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/treefan_events/⁠⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/⁠⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠


    ⁠⁠“Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

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    59 mins
  • 169: AI, AV & Event Technology Trends 2025: Elevating Experiences in a Digital Age with Anca Platon Trifan
    Jan 3 2025

    Join Anca Platon Trifan on the first episode 2025 of the Events Demystified Podcast as we kick off the year with an exploration of AI, AV, technology, sustainability and wellness trends and predictions in the meetings and event industry.

    This episode emphasizes the importance of technology, particularly AI, in driving meaningful progress and creating personalized experiences. Key highlights include the transformative impact of AI on event personalization, networking, and logistics, the future of AV production with AV-over-IP, and integrating sustainability and wellness into event planning. Anca also shares valuable insights on balancing technology with human connections to ensure memorable and impactful events.


    00:00 Introduction to 2025 Trends 01:45 Welcome to Events Demystified 03:22 The Power of Personalization 07:54 AI-Driven Networking 11:35 Revolutionizing Event Registration 13:52 Data Integration and ROI 15:51 Innovations in AV Production 27:03 Sustainability in Event Planning 28:41 Prioritizing Wellness 31:49 The Importance of Human Connection 34:00 Conclusion and Farewell


    HOST BIO

    Anca Platon Trifan is the Sr. Manager, Strategic Partnerships, Event Technology & AI at M&IW, Founder of ⁠Tree-Fan Events LLC⁠ and the visionary behind #FIT4EVENTS ⁠Fit Mindful Mavens⁠. Anca brings a potent mix of event production savvy, fitness enthusiasm, and transformative innovation to the table. With over two decades in event production, she’s not just any leader—she’s been recognized as one of 2023’s Smart Meetings Catalyst Quantum Leap Award winners, 2023’s Entrepreneur Award winner of Smart Women in Meetings, and 2022’s #WomenToWatch.

    Adding to this glittering list, she’s also a nominee for The Most Influential People in the Events Industry for 2023 by Eventex. Marrying her technical finesse with AI’s latest and greatest, Anca crafts extraordinary events that break the mold. A fervent advocate for women in tech and production, as well as a wellness advocate, Anca is a regular on stages nationwide, exemplifying how event production, tech, and a balanced life can create a seismic shift in both industries and individual lives.


    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    • LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/treefan_events/⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/⁠


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music.


    ⁠“Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠is brought to you by ⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

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    35 mins
  • 168: Events Demystified Podcast: 2024 Year in Review with Anca Platon Trifan
    Dec 20 2024

    Hey friends, join me on this special Year in Review episode of the ⁠Events Demystified Podcast ⁠as we revisit the impactful conversations we've had in 2024, from exploring AI-driven innovation in event management and technology to sharing memorable stories from the frontline, a year filled with growth, challenges, and new directions.

    Key takeaways include maximizing event production on a budget, personal branding in the event industry, AI's role in event engagement and ROI, and how to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving event technology landscape. Tune in for inspiring insights and reflections on the year that was, and a look ahead to the promising developments in 2025.

    🔍 Topics Explored:

    • 00:00 Introduction and Overview
    • 02:41 Personal and Professional Highlights of 2024
    • 09:23 Season 8: The Evolution of AI in Events
    • 18:16 Season 9: #eVENTaboutIT Series with Megan Martin
    • 25:53 Season 10: Beyond AI
    • 28:04 Looking Ahead to 2025
    • 29:19 Conclusion and Farewell


    HOST BIO

    Anca Platon Trifan is the Sr. Manager, Strategic Partnerships, Event Technology & AI at M&IW, Founder of Tree-Fan Events LLC and the visionary behind #FIT4EVENTS Fit Mindful Mavens. Anca brings a potent mix of event production savvy, fitness enthusiasm, and transformative innovation to the table. With over two decades in event production, she’s not just any leader—she’s been recognized as one of 2023’s Smart Meetings Catalyst Quantum Leap Award winners, 2023’s Entrepreneur Award winner of Smart Women in Meetings, and 2022’s #WomenToWatch.

    Adding to this glittering list, she’s also a nominee for The Most Influential People in the Events Industry for 2023 by Eventex. Marrying her technical finesse with AI’s latest and greatest, Anca crafts extraordinary events that break the mold. A fervent advocate for women in tech and production, as well as a wellness advocate, Anca is a regular on stages nationwide, exemplifying how event production, tech, and a balanced life can create a seismic shift in both industries and individual lives.


    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    • LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/treefan_events/⁠
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/


    ⁠⁠Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music.


    “Events: demystified” Podcast is brought to you by Tree-Fan Events, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

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    31 mins
  • 167: Resilience, Relational Intelligence, and Elevated Experiences ft. Sarah Reuter
    Dec 6 2024
    In this episode of the Events Demystified Podcast⁠, Anca sits down with Sarah Reuter, CEO of Elevate Travel Company and Experiences Elevated Consulting. Sarah shares her journey and mission to empower professionals in the high-pressure world of event planning. They discuss the importance of resilience and relational intelligence in event design, personal growth, and leadership. Sarah also dives into her Revive and Thrive Program, which helps event professionals transition from post-event stress to post-event bliss through holistic approaches like movement, breathwork, and meditation. Tune in to uncover practical tips and strategies to thrive mentally, physically, and emotionally in the event industry. PAUSE: a moment to get present with fellow event pros - weekly 20-min embodiment session: https://lu.ma/calendar/cal-b0sDSNV9yp4wM75 🔍 Topics Covered: 02:09 Meet Sarah Reuter: Empowering Professionals 04:35 Personal Practices for Grounding and Resilience 07:12 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms 09:11 Teaching Resilience to the Next Generation 13:24 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Events 16:51 Meditation and Holistic Wellbeing 27:09 Elevating the Human Experience in Event Design 34:52 Sarah's Personal Journey and Sobriety 42:59 Future Trends in Event Design and Personal Growth 47:48 Final Thoughts and Advice Connect with our Guest at the links below: Website URL: https://www.elevatetravelco.com/Linked IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-reuter-6b86899/IG: https://www.instagram.com/elevatetravelco/ Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/treefan_events/⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn page, YouTube page, Threads, X (Twitter), and Instagram to stay updated on the latest episodes and join the conversation. X (Twitter)⁠Instagram⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠LinkedIn Page⁠⁠YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. “Events: demystified” Podcast is brought to you by Tree-Fan Events, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience w
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    54 mins
  • 166: Demystifying Brand Storytelling Through Video Production ft. Shelby Ring
    Nov 22 2024
    Welcome to the ⁠Events Demystified Podcast⁠, hosted by ⁠Anca Platon Trifan, CMP, DES, WMEP⁠. In this episode of the Events Demystified Podcast, Anca sits down with Shelby Ring, CEO of Brand Narrative Video Production, to explore the art of brand storytelling through video production. Tune in as Shelby shares insights on crafting compelling narratives, overcoming challenges in video marketing, leveraging AI tools for content creation, and managing complex production timelines. Plus, discover fun facts about Shelby and tips for founders who struggle with being on camera. Use code TREEFAN to get 10% off the masterclass: "The Art Of On-Camera Interviews" GUEST BIO Shelby Ring is the Chief Cat Herder and lead Cinematographer at Ruby Riot Creatives, an Austin, TX, and Charleston, SC, digital marketing firm specializing in photo + video brand campaigns. When Shelby’s not directing a shoot or geeking out in Final Cut Pro, you might find her stuffing her face with fried chicken or Blues Fusion dancing. Shelby is a champion and an advocate for entrepreneurs everywhere and believes business is one of the best ways to make huge, sustainable changes in today’s society. Catch her podcast, The Ruby Hour, to learn expert on-camera and branding tips. 🔍 Topics Covered: 01:10 Meet Shelby Ring: CEO of Brand Narrative Video Production 03:03 The Art of Herding Cats in Event Production 05:22 Balancing Creativity and Client Expectations 12:10 Defining Brand Storytelling in the Digital Age 19:27 Challenges and Strategies in Video Production 29:11 Embracing AI in Brand Campaigns 31:48 The Importance of Set Design and Wardrobe 34:38 Practical Tips for On-Camera Presence 36:13 Innovative AI Tools for Fashion 39:25 Managing Video Production Logistics 48:04 Balancing Work and Self-Care 55:09 Future Trends in Video Production 59:24 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with our Guest at the links below: Website URL: https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com The Ruby Hour Podcast: https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/rubyriotcreatives LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/shelbyring/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubyriotcreatives Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below: LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn page, YouTube page, Threads, X (Twitter), and Instagram to stay updated on the latest episodes and join the conversation. X (Twitter)⁠Instagram⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠LinkedIn Page⁠⁠YouTube Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. “Events: demystified” Podcast is brought to you by Tree-Fan Events, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • 165: Mastering Budget-Friendly Marketing Strategies for Events ft. Nicole Jacobson
    Nov 8 2024

    In this episode of the Events Demystified Podcast, host Anca Platon Trifan kicks off the 10th season with a dynamic conversation with Nicole Jacobson, Senior Director of Marketing and E-commerce at PC/nametag.

    Please Subscribe https://www.youtube.com/@eventsdemystifiedpodcast/videos?sub_confirmation=1 Nicole shares her wealth of experience in strategic planning, digital marketing, and building high-performance teams. The discussion focuses on budget-friendly marketing tactics and metrics for small businesses, creative content creation, and leveraging technology effectively. Tune in for practical tips on making a significant impact with limited resources, and learn how Nicole blends fun with her professional expertise. 00:00 Welcome to Season 10 00:56 Introduction to the Podcast and Host 02:09 Guest Introduction: Nicole Jacobson 02:55 Nicole's Unique Background 06:38 Journey into the Events Industry 09:01 Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses 12:44 Key Metrics for Marketing Success 16:16 Social Media and Marketing Analytics 19:05 Effective Marketing Strategies 25:01 Exploring Different Platforms 30:22 Embracing Authenticity in Marketing 31:10 Creating Engaging Content: Tips and Strategies 31:33 Sponsor Shoutout: TreeFan Events 32:24 Welcome Back: Budget-Friendly Marketing Strategies 33:09 Content Creation: From White Papers to Quick Videos 38:31 Leveraging Technology for Marketing Success 41:55 SEO and Keyword Strategies for Small Businesses 45:38 Connecting with Customers and Industry Insights 51:18 Balancing Work and Wellness in the Events Industry 55:44 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    --------------------------------------------------------------- Full Episode and Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/ Thank you for being a part of this journey. Until next time, stay inspired and be the change you wish to see. #EventsDemystifiedPodcast

    --------------------------------------------------------------- 👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this. 👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge. 👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry! 👉 Check out our other episodes for more expert insights and tips. 👉 Stay tuned for more as we continue to explore and demystify the fascinating world of event technology and innovation! https://treefanevents.com/

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    58 mins
  • 164: Exploring AI Innovations in Event Technology - Live from IMEX America '24 with Anca Platon Trifan
    Oct 25 2024

    In this episode of the Events Demystified Podcast, recorded live at the IMEX America trade show, host Anca Trifan dives into interviews with various tech companies about their AI innovations and integrations in event technologies.


    Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/YOPgNl2lJ2w?si=VsZJQlG5fgFHFJq1


    The episode highlights the distinction between essential AI features and those that are more superficial. It also explores the importance of wellness with activations focused on mental and physical fitness at the event. Various companies share insights on how AI and machine learning enhance user experiences and streamline event management, highlighting features like real-time recommendations, content discovery, and attendee flow tracking. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the future of AI in event technology and the wellness initiatives that are reshaping attendee experiences. 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: 00:00 Welcome to Events Demystified Podcast 00:10 Exploring AI Innovations at IMEX America 01:00 Wellness and Well-being at IMEX 02:11 Interview with StreamPoint Solutions 05:59 Turnout Now: AI in Live Events 10:01 eShow: Comprehensive Event Technology 11:51 Zuddl: Unified Event Platform 14:22 InEvent: Customizable Event Solutions 16:09 GetRegistered: Simplified Registration 17:55 Cvent: End-to-End Event Management 20:48 Snowball: Peer-to-Peer Marketing 27:36 Zoho Backstage: Event Management Platform 29:25 Backtrack: AI Sales Coach for Exhibitors


    https://youtu.be/YOPgNl2lJ2w?si=VsZJQlG5fgFHFJq1

    --------------------------------------------------------------- Full Episode and Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/ Thank you for being a part of this journey. Until next time, stay inspired and be the change you wish to see. #EventsDemystifiedPodcast

    --------------------------------------------------------------- 👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this. 👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge. 👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry! 👉 Check out our other episodes for more expert insights and tips. 👉 Stay tuned for more as we continue to explore and demystify the fascinating world of event technology and innovation! https://treefanevents.com/

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    33 mins