Meeting Architect Podcast

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Guido Guzzo, Client Solutions Director at Encore, and Desmond Lomas, Global Sales Director - The Howes Group. Guido, Desmond and Brenda have a great discussion about digital events, past, present and future. They also discuss the evolution of digital meetings from being a "one-way valve" to a more interactive experience.  Discussed in this episode: New online meeting applications Microsites Are digital events less work? Breakout rooms, live feed & pre-recorded segments What will become of digital meetings post COVID? A one-way valve How is networking changing? Paid digital events, virtual trade-show Digital event professional tips and tricks Myths and truths Virtual green room Think value, not duration Hybrid events Key Learning:  Preparation is vital to hosting a successful digital event that delivers real value. No matter what size the event is, onboarding your speakers is key so they have the proper tech setup, and feel confident using the software so they are able to connect with the audience.  Guido also played a very important role in The Friendship Project as part of the group - Greg & The Optimists.   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Greg Plazek, Account Executive, Marriott Hotels, Canada Accounts Sales Team.  Brenda and Greg have a great discussion about mentorship, leadership, giving and getting advice, and giving back to the industry.  Discussed in this episode: Mentorship: The importance of giving back Who were Greg's mentors What is the best and worst advice The responsibility to give back as a leader What it means to have a personal board of directors Greg and Meetings Professional International (MPI) What is Imposter Syndrome? Key Learning:  Having mentors is valuable at key points in your career, someone you can turn to when you need advice, have questions , or need a fresh perspective on getting to the next step. "If serving is beneath you, then leading is beyond you."   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Jo-Anne Jobson, Principal, Sites Unlimited.  Brenda and Jo-Anne discuss how the conference and meetings industry will move forward as the restrictions from the pandemic are lifted and we start to come back to a new normal.  Discussed in this episode: A cancelled trip The realization to start re-scheduling business Looking at 2021 Looking into the future of clauses:   Force Majeure Rate Review Attrition Face to face meetings are not going away Collaboration and cooperation  Key Learning:  Face to face meeting builds trust and relationships faster.In-person meetings will return. and while we make our way to the new normal we need to do our best to collaborate and build relationships with our partners in business.  ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Joanne Charlebois, CEO, Speech Language & Audiology Canada. Brenda and Joanne discuss: Risk management Measuring the success of your conference Balancing the risk of being innovative and being responsive to what your members want. Key Learning: The soft and hard metrics to measure the success of your conference.   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Anne Stubbs, President & CEO of Yoga In My Backyard. Anne is a Yoga & Meditation Teacher and Fitness Instructor. Brenda and Anne talk about the value and benefits of Yoga, Meditation and other mind-body disciplines for lowering levels of stress and bringing more balance into your life.   Discussed in this episode: Benefits of a regular practice  Taking a breath Being present Balance in the modern world Intentional rejuvenation  Healing tools Begin and end your day with a pause Key Learning: Creating a practice that allows you to step back from the fast pace of your day-to-day responsibilities, thus permitting you to check-in with your mind and body, helping you bring more balance into your life.  Connect with Anne: https://yogaimby.com . ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Paula Sebeizzi, Global Account Executive, Marriott International. Brenda and Paula discuss the role of a global sales office and how they bridge the gap between the venue and the meeting architect.  Discussed in this episode: Being a strategic partner  Acquisitions, growing to thirty brands Merging verticals  Upcoming Marriott trends Global trends Independent hotel ownership Sales vs Revenue Ritz Carlton Reserve What three items does Paula never leave home without? Key Learning: With large acquisitions and mergers it is important to learn the new essence and voice of the brand to be able to effectively define it to the customers.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Stephane Pelletier, General Manager, Ottawa Marriott Hotel. Brenda and Stephane discuss how Meeting & Conference business fits into the big picture of business at the hotel. Discussed in this episode: Is Meeting & Conference business important? Stephane's journey to GM Working in every department Over and above for every meeting The evolution of the Revenue Manager position RevPAR Meeting Architects - learning the heartbeat of the hotel Key Learning: It is important to make a human-to-human connection when choosing your event space as Meeting Architects are in the business of bringing people together.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Karen Norris, CMP, Conference Manager and Meeting Architect for the Canadian Association of General Surgeons.  Brenda and Karen discuss the shift from meeting planner to meeting architect and the tremendous change the industry has undergone in the last ten years. Brenda and Karen also discuss: Creating experiences that influence change Crisis management  The un-conference The education experience and importance of how adults learn Having Passion    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Heather Reid, Founder, Planner Protect Incorporated, Innovative Conferences & Communications and Co-Chair of PCMA CIC 2019 & Krista Cameron, Business Development Director, Freeman Audio Visual Canada and Co-Chair of PCMA CIC. Brenda, Heather and Krista discuss the process of planning, conceptualizing and executing PCMA CIC Conference, 2019.  Discussed in this episode: The planning begins The vision for the experience Learn, adapt & implement Conference theme & keynotes Inclusivity Innovations - avatars, holographic effects Key Learning: When you are involved in a great experience, you can learn from it, adapt it for other experiences and implement what you have learned.  Connect with Heather - LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/hreid Connect with Krista - LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/krista-cameron-20870214   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Rosemary Vaughan, GiftRevel - Owner & Destination Gifting Specialist. Brenda and Rosemary have a great conversation about gifting, the psychology around gifting and how Rosemary got her start in the gifting industry.  Discussed in this episode: Finding the right gift Artisan community Special and unique Giving and receiving Is it just the thought that counts? Branded gifts Memory reactivation Sustainable gifting Hero at home Planning and timing Key Learning: Gifting is about connecting, building a relationship and creating a memory. Check Out GiftRevel: https://www.giftrevel.com Connect with Rosemary - LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/tech2meet ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Liz Akey, Executive Director & President of EMA Marketing. Brenda and Liz have a great conversation uncovering the steps that Liz took and the experience she built to get to where she is today. Discussed in this episode: The different industry verticals that Liz has worked in Marketing, travel and public relations SITE Society for Incentive Travel Excellence Entrepreneurship is calling!  Supporting boutique, independent brands and destination marketing companies. Educationals vs FAMs from a hotelier’s perspective The difference between city centre, urban and resort destinations Key Learning: There are a number of areas and verticals one can work in. However, in this industry ROI for all stakeholders is essential. Connect with Liz: EMA Marketing LinkedIn: Liz Akey ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Anne Stubbs, President & CEO of Yoga In My Backyard. Anne is a Yoga & Meditation Teacher and Fitness Instructor. Brenda and Anne talk about the value and benefits of Yoga, Meditation and other mind-body disciplines for lowering levels of stress and bringing more balance into your life.   Discussed in this episode: Benefits of a regular practice  Taking a breath Being present Balance in the modern world Intentional rejuvenation  Healing tools Begin and end your day with a pause Key Learning: Creating a practice that allows you to step back from the fast pace of your day-to-day responsibilities, thus permitting you to check-in with your mind and body, helping you bring more balance into your life.  Connect with Anne: https://yogaimby.com . ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Catherine Priestman, President & CEO of CP Business Solutions. Brenda and Catherine have a great discussion about how managing expectations at multiple levels is key to successful events.    Discussed in this episode: CP Business Solutions 3 Pillars Managing client expectations  Going over and above The importance of having support Working with the venue team Catherine's learning experiences   Key Learning: When you manage expectations you're not just managing the tangible items you deliver, it is also your job to take care of the people you are working with.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Sandy Biback, Founder of Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking Brenda and Sandy have a heartfelt conversation about how Sandy started this passion project to help bring this dark topic to light. Discussed in this episode: Trafficking myths How can meeting professionals help? Become aware of the issue Educate yourself   The Photo App that helps identify hotel rooms The training the hotels are undertaking Future goals for MPAHT "If you see something, say something." Key Learning: With an issue as pervasive as Human Trafficking, we all need to work together to find a way to contribute to a solution. If you see something, say something.   Resources: MPAHT (Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking) ECPAT- End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and the Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes (Global Headquarters) ECPAT USA has done wonderful work getting such organizations as MPI/PCMA/site to get onboard: The Code:  As a branch of ECPAT, many hotels, travel companies, industry organizations (including MPAHT) are members.  Mekong Club out of Hong Kong:  More information about labor slavery, click HERE Shiva Foundation of UK who post signage in all their UK hotels.  Click HERE  ECPAT-USA video that is shown to the public, industry and students to help elevate the awareness of this issue within hotels   HOW TO HELP?   TraffickCam App Take photos of any hotel that you are staying at and this database helps authorities and the police identify where the crimes are taking place. For meeting planners, you can find contract clauses and RFP questions examples here to include during the procurement process. . . ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Rhonda Scharf, CSP, HoF - On The Right Track Training and Consulting. Brenda and Rhonda dig into the strategic planning for a conference and how the team of people come together.   Discussed in this episode: Rhonda's specialty of ‘People Power’ Having a vision and sharing that vision Different perspectives from being a delegate to being behind the scenes  How to have difficult conversations Roles and responsibilities on a team  Creating expectations  Don't forget the gratitude   Key Learning: As a leader, you must share your vision so the team members are motivated, they understand how they fit into the bigger picture and they feel that you trust them to do a great job.   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Ashley Craven, CMP, Manager of Conferences, Events & Corporate Partnerships with the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists. Brenda and Ashley have a great conversation about the first five years in a Meeting Architect's career and how to determine which direction to go. Discussed in this episode: How Ashley found her way to Event Management Transferable skills Ashley's past experience  The Meeting Architect lifestyle Ideas and execution The next five years Key Learning: Acquire formal education, actively seek volunteering opportunities where you can learn and be involved, and search for a mentor to help guide you.  Connect with Ashley: LinkedIn: Ashley Craven    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Marilyn Power, Director of Sales & Marketing, Delta Ottawa. Brenda and Marilyn talk about the importance of each vertical within the sales and marketing department and how they come together when evaluating a business opportunity.  Discussed in this episode: What does a Director of Sales & Marketing do? How a hotel evaluates new business opportunities  Bedroom block and arrival patterns Food & Beverage  Concessions: What is reasonable? Negotiating: Understanding the value of your group  Marketing and Advertising  Leadership Key Learning: Knowing the value and opportunity for potential business from both perspectives: Hotel vs Meeting Architect   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Desmond Lomas, CMP. Desmond is the Director of Global Accounts with The Howes Group. Brenda and Desmond have a great discussion about the value of volunteering and how giving is also a great way of receiving.  Discussed in this episode: Importance of volunteering How it makes you smarter How others will learn from you Build relationships and networks How giving back makes you happier The importance of EQ (Emotional Quotient) Upcoming role with MPI (Meeting Professionals International)  Key Learning: Volunteering helps you to build strong relationships, learn and expand your skills while giving to others.  ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Tyra Warner Hilliard, PhD, ESQ, CMP.  Tyra is unique as a lawyer because she has a strong foundation in the hospitality industry. Brenda and Tyra discuss Force Majeure.  Discussed In this episode: Acts of God & Acts of Man Fair and balanced Illegal, impossible and impracticable  The importance of dates Being prepared and protected Key Learning: Be aware and clear regarding the clauses and definitions so you know your risks.  Connect with Tyra at: tyrahilliard.com & on LinkedIn   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Jackie Meracle MBA, CMP. Jacky is the Manager of Chapter and Member Services at PCMA (Professional Conventions Management Association)  Discussed In this episode: Passion & Purpose Canadian members of PCMA Cornerstone of education Importance of innovation Driving global economic & social change Disruption What members want Upcoming events   Key Learning: Building and elevating business leaders through education.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Sam Laprade, radio host of "An Hour To Give" on 1310 News. Sam is also a consultant and match maker between giver and receiver, working with many organizations to ensure they are reaching their philanthropic goals in a meaningful and intentional way. Discussed In this episode: 30 years of experience in philanthropy Communication and alignment  Measuring the metrics and impact Volunteer, donation & sponsorship  Time, talent & treasure  Go small with big impact Conference sponsorship Pros and cons   Key Learning: Being of service with your time, talent and treasure as well as building relationships with donors and sponsors.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by this year's three Co-Chairs of the MPI 'The EVENT' in Montreal: Sarah Levitin from Lush Cosmetics, Alice Parnis from AV Canada and Jennifer Labrosse from Tourism Montreal.   They discuss the process of building the 2019 event from concept, to reality and now as it draws to a close at the time of this interview.   Also in this episode: Appealing to the senses, vestibular and proprioception  Bringing the vision to life How to find the perfect keynote speaker Bringing the experience back to work   Key Learning: Being able to recognize the separate pieces that create an amazing experience for attendees.    CONGRATULATIONS!!!  On June 16, 2019, the cofounders of the MPI 'The Event':  Ryan Young, Brookstreet Hotel; Tim Whalen, Fallsview Casino Resort; Marie France Watson, CED, Past President of MPI Montreal – were presented with the MPI Rise Award in Toronto at WEC 2019.  So well deserved!  Thank you for your dedication to creating new learning opportunities for all of us in this amazing industry!     ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group  

On this episode Brenda is joined by Candace  Schierling - Director of National Sales, Tourism Saskatoon.  Brenda and Candace discuss the neuroscience of communication - for meeting architects this means learning to position the message for everyone in the audience They also have a great conversation on innovation. Candace shares about a recent project that was very innovative and talks about how that idea started and where it took them.    They also discuss: Looking for what has not been done Not letting a risk hold you back VIPlane Making an impact Knowing your strengths and collaborating Learning and sticky points GMID   Key Learning: Create an impact with innovative ideas and collaborating to reach big goals and build relationships. .  

On this episode, Brenda is joined by Tyra Warner Hilliard, PhD, ESQ, CMP.  Tyra is unique as a lawyer because she has a strong foundation in the hospitality industry. Brenda and Tyra discuss the important things to consider to make the contracts balanced, fair and logical  Discussed In this episode: Fundamentals of the performance clauses Clauses for rooms, spaces, and food & beverage Dealing with underperformance Loss profit Loss revenue What is fair? Monitoring and tracking   Key Learning: Both parties should be assuming risk. Attrition and cancellation clauses are about compensating the other party when one party has failed to perform or has underperformed.   Connect with Tyra at: tyrahilliard.com   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Jeanna André-Murdie, Global Sales Director for The Howes Group shares her Top 5 Tips for making sure your requests are not lost in translation.  Ensure your request for proposal is in hotel language regarding: Setup requirements Guest rooms Billing Catering Extras Key Learning: Be clear, direct and upfront with what your needs for your next event are.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Jennifer Beatty, Managing Director - Resiada. She is also the Chair of the Canadian Council for MPI Foundation and sits on the Global Board of Trustees. Brenda and Jennifer discussed her journey with Meeting Professionals International organization, the power of networking, the value of volunteering and how MPI focuses on the three pillars of career development, scholarships and research.  They also discuss: New formats for professional development Being an "accidental" planner The new Event Canvas   Key Learning: The positive ripple effect that associations have in the events and meetings industry.     ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Carley Schelck - Partner & CEO of The Urban Element, a venue that elevates food literacy and de-mystifies the process of preparing food.  Brenda and Carley discuss the importance of food & beverage when planning events. The emerging trend of Chefs who connect with their guests, re-establishing and strengthening the connection we have to our food and how it influences the experience. The Urban Element is a place where people who are passionate about food can collaborate and connect. They are a group of educated culinary professionals that put on food and wine events as well as educational activities for the general public as well as corporate and private groups   Key Learning: How food and beverage is a catalyst to bringing people together and is a cornerstone to the infrastructure of an event.   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Jeanna André-Murdie - The Howes Group.  Brenda and Jeanna talk about the importance of inclusive meetings, defining "inclusive", ensuring inclusivity through your RFP and how food plays a major role.  Key Learning: Inclusivity pre, during and post conference    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Victoria Clarke, Executive Director - Destination St John.  Brenda and Victoria have a great conversation about: The nuances of marketing for different events and organizations Getting above the noise in digital marketing Using best practices in technology to determine your ROI Tracking the delegate experience Key Learning: Measuring the economic impact of bringing delegates into a city.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Desmond Lomas, Global Sales Director - The Howes Group shares his Top 5 strategies for how to avoid attrition. Tracking your room pick-up and pace Attrition clauses in your contract Mitigate attrition when the hotel can re-sell dropped rooms Review your marketing Communicate with the hotel    Key Learning: How to avoid attrition.     ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Joanne Charlebois, CEO, Speech Language & Audiology Canada. Brenda and Joanne discuss how she learned risk management, measuring the success of your conference, balancing the risk of being innovative and being responsive to what your members want.   Key Learning: The soft and hard metrics to measure the success of your conference.   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode benda is joined by Chris Carpenter - Reginal Director of Sales for Canada, Mid-West USA & Texas, Edwardian Hotels - London. Brenda and Chris discuss his experiences studying Hospitality in Switzerland, travelling, living and doing business all over the world and the benefits of working with a privately owned hotel.    Key Learning - The similarities and differences when working in North American and Europe.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Erica Stewart, Manager - Events and Development for the Canadian Bureau for International Education Brenda and Erica discuss the opportunities and challenges that are present when your conference grows, the metrics that tell you your conference was a success and the importance of making conferences lighter and more fun without compromising the quality of education and networking.  Key Learning - The metrics the tell you if your event was a success.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Aysun Lynch, MICE U.S. & International Business Development Manager. Brenda and Aysun explore where the title "Meeting Architect" comes from and the shift from "Meeting Planner". Key Learning: How adults learn differently from children and how the meeting architect can take this into consideration when they are designing the meeting.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Natalie Brault, Senior Sales Manager - Fairmont Queen Elizabeth. Brenda and Natalie discuss innovative meeting spaces and some ideas on how to use the hotels resources for your next event to create a unique experience.   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Karen Norris, CMP, Conference Manager and Meeting Architect for the Canadian Association of General Surgeons.  Brenda and Karen discuss the shift from meeting planner to meeting architect and the tremendous change the industry has undergone in the last ten years. Brenda and Karen also discuss: Creating experiences that influence change Crisis management  The un-conference The education experience and importance of how adults learn Having Passion    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Shaddy Shibley, Director of Sales, Westin Ottawa. Shaddy shares how his father inspired his choice of pursuing a career in hospitality and his movement into various spaces of the industry. Shaddy also shares a valuable tool he calls his Rates, Dates and Space formula.      ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group  

On this episode Brenda is joined by Jeanna André-Murdie, Global Sales Director for The Howes Group. Jeanna shares her strategy for negotiating concessions for her clients and adding value to their programs. Brenda and Jeanna also discuss important current trends in the meeting and conference industry and what he sees coming up in the future.    ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Desmond Lomas, Global Sales Director - The Howes Group. Brenda and Desmond discuss his experience as the Director of Sales and Marketing at one of Ottawa’s leading downtown meeting and business travel hotels and how he applies that experiences to now being an advocate for his clients. They also discuss important current trends in the meeting and conference industry and what he sees coming up in the future.       ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

On this episode Brenda is joined by Ross Meredith - General Manager, Westin Ottawa.  Brenda and Ross discuss how Ross got his start in the hospitality industry, the skills he developed along the way and what he sees coming in the future. Ross also shares great insight on the three stakeholders that makes up the conference partnership and how important it is to have a balance for all parties to equally share returns and contributions.      ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group

The role of a meeting planner has evolved over the last decade.  There are reasons why it continues to make the Top Ten Most Stressful Job list each year: because it has a complex set of skills and responsibilities.   This podcast is for those in the business events industry. Whether you are planning a meeting, conference, convention or corporate retreat, the base of each business event requires a strong foundation. As a meeting architect, today’s planner is required to be knowledgeable in an ever-evolving industry.   Each week we will discuss the challenges, lessons learned, successes and how we build the very best experiences.   Topics Discussed: How to find value when working with a venue Breaking down the implications of contract clauses How to determine the ROI on an event Introducing you to individuals on both sides of the planning process   ➡️ The Meeting Architect Podcast is proudly brought to you by The Howes Group