What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World
Smart Meetings’ What One Thing podcast is your shortcut to the top of the events world. We interview savvy meeting planners, speakers and industry experts about the decisions that made all the difference in their lives and careers so you can take the fast track to your dreams.
Episodes
Security Starts Before the Crisis
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, host JT Long sits down with Mark Herrera, president and chief security strategist at Global Awareness Professionals, to discuss what it really means to build safer, better-prepared teams. Drawing from a career that has included work as an EMT, police sergeant, SWAT officer, human resources representative, flight deck instructor and director of saf
Originality Starts at the Origin
Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean to be original?In this episode of What One Thing?, Sophia Abramchuk, founder of the Originate Institute, shares why the most powerful ideas are not created from scratch; they are uncovered. Inspired by the work of Antoni Gaudí, she explores how returning to the problem's origins can unlock more meaningful, human-centered solutions.From rethinking event
Amputate to Elevate: The Power of Strategic Subtraction
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing?, leadership coach and Paralympian John Register challenges the idea that success comes from doing more. Instead, he introduces “amputate to elevate”, the practice of letting go of what no longer serves you to perform at a higher level.From redefining authority as building others up to embracing strategic breaks over constant grind, this conversati
Hard Work Beats Talent: Lessons from The Gardiner Brothers
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing?, host Devon Montgomery Pasha, CMP, CED, talks with world champion Irish dancers Michael and Matthew Gardiner, known globally as The Gardiner Brothers, whose viral performances have reached millions online while bringing traditional Irish dance to modern audiences.The brothers share how discipline, creativity and innovation shaped their journey fro
The ROI of Joy
Send us Fan MailThe ROI of JoyIn this episode of What One Thing, host Devon Montgomery Pasha speaks with Liz Lathan, CMP, co-founder of Club Ichi, about the power of community, curiosity and human connection in the meetings industry.With a career that spans global event marketing roles at companies like Dell and IBM, Lathan has long believed that the most meaningful business outcomes come from env
Planning for America 250: Strategy, Storytelling and Scale
Send us Fan MailAmerica’s 250th anniversary isn’t just a historic milestone. It is a major opportunity for event professionals to create experiences that bring people together and tell stories that actually stick.In this episode, Smart Meetings’ VP JT Long sits down with Melinda Curley, vice president of customer experience at Hargrove, and Johanna Walsh, vice president of event production at Enco
The Science of Connection in Hybrid Events
Send us Fan MailIf your virtual room feels fine, but nobody is leaning in, this episode is for you.Hosted by Devon Pasha Montgomery, this What One Thing? episode spotlights virtual and hybrid engagement expert John Chen, CEO of Engaging Virtual Meetings. Chen has produced more than 4,000 virtual meetings and breaks down small, repeatable choices that make online rooms feel human, from belonging cu
Advocacy Is Part of the Planner Job Now
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, host JT Long examines why advocacy has become essential for meeting professionals navigating today’s rapidly shifting landscape. The conversation opens with leadership from the Live Events Coalition, including Al Mercuro, strategic marketing and client engagement advisor at Genesis Exhibits; Dwayne Thomas, director of government affairs for the Li
You Are the Art: Why Self-Expression Is the New Leadership Skill
Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean to be yourself at work, not the curated version, not the corporate mask, but the fully expressed you?In this episode of What One Thing?, transformational speaker and author Judi Holler returns to chat with Smart Meetings content director JT Long to unpack the core idea behind her new book, Holler at Your Dreams. She introduces the concept of self-expression
Designing for Yes: Inside the Psychology of Influence
Send us Fan MailIn this energizing episode of What One Thing?, Devon Montgomery Pasha sits down with behavioral science expert and global keynote speaker Nancy Harhut to explore why people say yes and how understanding human decision-making can transform both marketing and event design. Nancy breaks down the emotional shortcuts that drive behavior, the four decision defaults that shape how audienc
The Heart of San Francisco Hospitality
Send us Fan MailIn this special edition of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings flips the script and “interviews” the city of San Francisco by talking with two of the people who define its spirit. First, Anna Marie Presutti, CEO of SF Travel, shares her journey from Midwest roots to boutique hotels, culminating in her leadership of the city’s destination marketing efforts. She discusses how San Francis
The Power of a Professional Wing Person
Send us Fan MailIn this conversation of What One Thing, co-host Devon Montgomery Pasha chats with Shaena Harrison, professional wing person and CEO of Wing People, a boutique agency dedicated to bringing genuine human connection back to business events. After years of producing major conferences and watching attendees struggle to move beyond surface-level networking, Harrison launched a team of tr
Senses Elevated: Marriott’s Immersive Meeting Experiences
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, host JT Long steps inside the Marriott Bonvoy Convention and Resort Network Elite Experience Suite at the Marriott Marquis New York to explore how meetings can ignite all the senses. Joined by Amanda Cox, vice president of Sales, Convention & Resort Sales, JT Long uncovers how more than 125 Marriott properties are creating turnkey, locally ins
The Other Side of Leadership: How to Lead with Heart (and Still Get Results)
Send us Fan MailFounding partner of Imprint Events Group, Nicole Marsh, joins host JT Long for a candid conversation about what it really means to lead with heart. She shares lessons from nearly three decades in the hospitality industry, exploring how emotional intelligence, vulnerability and trust can transform teams from the inside out. Whether you’re navigating change, developing new leaders or
Balancing Uncertainty, Innovation and Humanity: Lessons from IMEX America’s Visionaries
Send us Fan MailLive from IMEX America, Smart Meetings’ What One Thing? podcast features candid conversations with three powerhouse leaders shaping the future of events.Mike Dominguez, president and CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International, offers clear-eyed optimism about the meetings industry and urges planners to stay nimble, disciplined with their time and realistic about global change.Tr
Tough as a Mother: Redefining Ambition in Events
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing?, Smart Meeting's VP, JT Long sits down with Justine Sterling Converse and April Zorsky, co-founders of Brigade Events, a woman-led agency redefining what it means to thrive in the events industry. From producing gatherings for presidents, first ladies and world leaders to orchestrating ultra-exclusive experiences for Fortune 500 executives, c
Your Guide to IMEX America 2025: Innovation, Impact and Connection in Las Vegas
Send us Fan MailIn this special episode of What One Thing? we take you behind the scenes of IMEX America 2025 in Las Vegas. First, Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, shares insights on what is new this year, from AI-powered matchmaking tools and event design upgrades to ambitious sustainability goals such as achieving a 93% waste diversion rate. She also reflects on her leadership legacy and IMEX’s
Stop Shrinking: The Power of Owning Your Spark
Send us Fan MailSmart Meetings vice president and content director JT Long sits down with powerhouse emcee and event strategist Devon Montgomery Pasha for an unforgettable conversation about authenticity, impact and the bold moment she stopped shrinking and chose to take up space. JT shares some exciting news: Devon will join What One Thing? as a future co-host.From managing stage nerves to naviga
From Artist to Event Boss: Scaling Impact, Creativity and Confidence
Send us Fan MailFrom classical violin gigs in Des Moines to scaling a multimillion-dollar event production empire, Natasha Miller's career journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, the founder and CEO of Entire Productions joins Smart Meetings Vice President and Content Director JT Long to talk about her path from musician to entrepreneur, the power of self-education, how to claim a
Do It Scared: Betting Big and Building Community
Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of What One Thing, Smart Women in Meetings award winner Shameka Jennings, chief events officer at Events Noire, shares how betting on herself—and doing it scared—became the foundation for a thriving career in impact-driven event strategy.Host JT Long sits down with Jennings to explore her journey from college campus events to building a successful business
Career Lessons for Event Professionals: Leadership, Resilience and Growth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, Smart Meetings' VP and editorial director, JT Long, sits down with Shawn Pierce, President of Strategic Events, Meetings & Incentives at MCI USA, to trace his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings on a Texas pig farm to leading a 130-person global team.Shawn shares the pivotal moment when a mentor saw potential in him that changed
Mentorship, Modernization and Member Value with Michelle Mason
Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of What One Thing?, Michelle Mason, president and CEO of ASAE and recipient of the Smart Women in Meetings Marin Bright Legacy Award, opens up about the leadership philosophy that shaped her journey: servant leadership. From humble beginnings and early mentorship from her mother to leading one of the most influential association organizations in the country
Sustainability Meets Innovation in Toronto
Send us Fan MailIn this special live edition of What One Thing?, recorded at Smart Meetings’ Innovation Experience, we head north to explore what makes Toronto a world-class destination for meetings and events. Smart Meetings' editorial director and VP, JT Long, sits down with Romina Kwong, founder of Eco-Friendly Events, and Hailey Dawood, owner of The Idea Hunter, to talk sustainability, di
Walking Through the Door: Real Talk on Allyship, Mentorship and Sponsorship
Send us Fan MailWhat does it truly mean to be an ally—not just in title, but in everyday action? In this special episode of What One Thing?, we celebrate the inaugural Smart Allies cohort with candid conversations about leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. Leonard Hoops (President & CEO, Visit Indy), David Stevens (Co-founder, Olympian Meeting), and Mike May (President, Brightspot Incentives
Impact 2.0: How IMEX Frankfurt Is Shaping the Future of Events
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings’ vice president and editorial director JT Long reconnects with Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, for a second conversation about the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt 2025. Bauer shares insights into the surge in global demand despite geopolitical uncertainty and how IMEX Frankfurt prioritizes health, well-being and inclusivity through wellne
No Beef, Big Impact: How IMEX is Redefining Sustainable Events
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, Smart Meetings VP and Content Director JT Long speaks with IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer about bold sustainability lessons from IMEX Frankfurt 2024. Bauer shares how simple changes—like removing beef from menus and reordering vegetarian options—can dramatically influence attendee behavior. She explains how IMEX measures sustainability efforts using
From Six Flags to CEO: The Power of Experience & Connection with Keith Alper
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, Smart Meetings’ VP and Content Director JT Long interviews Keith Alper, CEO and chairman of Creative Producers Group. Alper is a veteran of marketing, branding, business strategy and event production.Alper shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from childhood performances in his basement to launching his first business at 17 while working at
Unlocking Joy: Secrets to Finding Happiness in Every Moment with Robin Shear
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of What One Thing, host JT Long, VP and editorial director of Smart Meetings, welcomes Robin Shear, founder of Joy to the World Coaching, to discuss the transformative power of joy. Shear shares how embracing joy can enhance personal and professional well-being when embraced even during life's toughest moments. She offers practical tips like the "feel-goo
Building Bridges Through Meaningful Dialogue with Jess Pettitt
Send us Fan MailHow can leaders lean into having meaningful conversations? In the latest discussion of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings' JT Long, vice president and content director, chats with Jess Pettitt, a keynote speaker, author and expert on navigating challenging conversations to improve workflow. Pettitt offers some helpful tips to give planners some starting steps in moving their team
Finding Common Ground and Shared Values with David Allison
Send us Fan MailIn this discussion of What One Thing?, JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings, chatted with David Allison, a human values expert and founder of the Value Graphics Research Company, to explore how planners can leverage insights into human behavior to understand their attendees better and create engaging events.Produced by: Eming Piansay
The Wellness Revolution: The Future of Wellness in Event with Sean Hoess and Kelly Cavers
Send us Fan MailAre you integrating cryotherapy and IV drips in your events? On this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meetings' JT Long, vice president and content director, sat down with Sean Hoess, the co-founder of Eudemonia and Wanderlust Festival and Kelly Cavers, chief sales officer for The Palm Beaches, to explore what makes wellness events not only impactful but essential for meeting
From Networking to Lasting Bonds: Practical Tips for Forging Authentic Connections with Kate Patay and Thuy Diep
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing?, JT Long vice president and content director of Smart Meetings sits down with Kate Patay, vice president of global engagement for Terramar, and Thuy Diep senior meeting planner of CWT Meetings & Events to discuss the art of building meaningful connections.Listen in as they explore the differences between transactional and relational encounters
What One Thing? Safety First: Protecting Your Attendees and Your Event in a Risky World with Kevin Coffey
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of What One Thing, a Smart Meetings podcast, host JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings, explores essential strategies for ensuring safety in an increasingly risky world. JT welcomes Kevin Coffey, a travel security and meeting risk advisor, who brings decades of expertise from his time as a detective with the Los Angeles Police Department&ap
What One Thing? Crafting Culinary Experiences with Thomas Whelan: The Art of Feeding Thousands with Passion and Precision
Send us Fan MailIf an event prof career life is a smorgasbord of hospitality job options, how do you decide what to put on your plate? We asked an award-winning F&B expert. In this episode of What One Thing? host JT Long, VP and content director of Smart Meetings, delves into the fascinating world of food and beverage with Thomas Whelan, director of operations for Levy Restaurants. With over
What One Thing? Building a Better IMEX for 2024 with Carina Bauer
Send us Fan MailIn this edition of What One Thing?, Smart Meetings chats with IMEX CEO Carina Bauer to discuss the lessons learned from IMEX Frankfurt that will inform IMEX America. Bauer highlights the success of their education program, frank discussions on tough topics and the show’s overall theme of impact.Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing? The Heart of Hospitality: Deborah Gardner on Building a Winning Mentality
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the What One Thing? Smart Meetings welcomes Deborah Gardner, a former swimming champion and performance expert known for her competitive mentality and dynamic presentations. Gardner shares her unique journey from crashing weddings to becoming a key figure in the hospitality industry. She emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing challenges and
What One Thing? Passion, Persistence, and Personal Branding: Insights from Event Strategist Edward Perotti
Send us Fan MailIn this Episode of What One Thing? JT Long, vice president and content director, continues her conversation with interviews Edward Perotti, an experienced event strategist. Perotti discusses the importance of taking initiative, staying true to oneself and managing the inherent stress of being an event professional by using humor and continually striving for improvement. www.smartme
What One Thing? The Importance of Demanding Tools for International Conferences with Geoff Freeman
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the "What One Thing" podcast, JT Long, Vice President and Content Director at Smart Meetings, sits down with Geoff Freeman from US Travel to discuss the crucial need for adequate tools to organize international conferences. They delve into why these conferences are vital for advancing economies, science, medicine, and fostering global connections.www.sm
What One Thing? Exploring Impact and Innovations with IMEX CEO Carina Bauer on IMEX Frankfurt 2024
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of "What One Thing," Smart Meetings interviews Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX, discussing the upcoming IMEX Frankfurt event. Bauer anticipates growth compared to previous years but notes that it may not reach the scale of IMEX America. Reflecting on innovations from the Las Vegas event, such as video content and immersive experiences, she highlights plans to in
What One Thing? From Order-Taker to Strategist: Navigating the World of Event Planning with Edward Perotti
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? JT Long, vice president and content director of Smart Meetings has an insightful conversation with Edward Perotti, an award-winning meeting designer and principle of EP Events and Experiences. With over 27 years of experience, Perotti shares valuable insights on transitioning from being an order-taker to a strategic leader in the events industry.
What One Thing? Empowering the Next Generation: Insights from Association Leadership with Michelle Mason
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Vice President and Content Director of Smart Meeting JT Long chats with President of ASAE, the Center for Association Leadership, Michelle Mason to discuss finding one's own path and purpose, the evolving landscape of meetings and conferences, the need for inclusivity, sustainability, and adaptation to technology. Mason also emphasizes the s
What One Thing? Elevating Event Experiences Through Luxury and Personalization with Neen James
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of "What One Thing?" from Smart Meetings, JT Long, Vice President and Content Director at Smart Meetings, interviews keynote speaker, luxury expert and author, Neen James, about the intersection of luxury and event planning. The discussion revolves around driving profitability, productivity, and accountability through paying extraordinary attention. James
What One Thing? The Cure to the Busy Brain with Dr. Romie
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting's Vice President JT Long chats with Dr. Romila “Romie” Mushtaq on what constitutes a Busy Brain and best practices to cure a Busy Brain. Find out more about Dr. Romie here: Brain Health Keynote Speaker | Dr. Romie (drromie.com)Curious if you have a Busy Brain? Take the Busy Brain quiz here: Busy Brain Test - Dr. Romie (drromie.
What One Thing? Finding Joy at Events with Jacques Martiquet The Party Scientist
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting's Vice President JT Long chats with The Party Scientist Jacques Martiquet to explore the concept of bringing joy to events, turning attendees from spectators into connectors and the impact of movement and music on attendees. Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing? Traveling Beyond the Stars with Ben Nemtin
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing Smart Meetings CEO and Founder Marin Bright is joined by Keynote Speaker and Author Ben Nemtin to discuss his storied accomplishments of creating a bucket list to attain his goals, finding purpose in life and his next big goal to go into space! Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing? IMEX 2023 Sneak Peek with Carina Bauer
Send us Fan MailOn this special episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting's Vice President, JT Long, sits down with IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer to get a sneak peek at what is in store for attendees in Las Vegas on October 17-19. Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing? Traveling for Good with Louise Bang
Send us Fan Mail On this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting’s Vice President and Content Director JT Long sits down with Regional Vice President of Sales and Distribution for the Caribbean and Latin America at Marriott International Louise Bang to discuss her love of travel and its ability to be a force for good and how communicating in multiple languages allowed her to have empathy for othe
What One Thing? Considering Other People's Happiness with Lisa Messina
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Marin Bright, CEO and founder of Smart Meetings, is joined by Lisa Messina, chief sales officer of Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, to discuss her journey through the hospitality industry, leaning into change, and keeping a perspective on the role you play in other people’s happiness.
What One Thing? Leaning into Uncertainty with Judi Holler
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meetings CEO and Founder Marin Bright is joined by Judi Holler, keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and author of Fear is My Homeboy. Judi speaks on leaning into uncertainty, possibility, and fear. Judi also explores how improv helped her crack open her own magic.
What One Thing? Creating Magical Experiences with Robert Strong
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meeting's Content Director JT Long speaks with Robert Strong, magician, comedian and speaker in addition to being an author. Robert shares with Smart Meetings on how he got started in magic, creating magical experiences for customers, and how humor can be used to help people connect. Lastly, Robert shares a memory of the time he shared
What One Thing? Overcoming the Unthinkable with Michelle Roark
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Marin Bright speaks with Michelle Roark, on her World Cup Champion experience, personal setbacks and founding Phia Lab, a ground-breaking wellness resource that helps enhance performance based on individual needs. Michelle shares her secrets for overcoming the unthinkable to be a force of nature in any endeavor. Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing? How to Follow Your Passion with Jade Simmons
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Marin Bright speaks to Jade Simmons on what led her to find her purpose in public speaking, playing piano, and a look into her new book Purpose The Remix: A Mind-Blowing Reunderstanding of Purpose and How It Works. Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing? The Fine Art of Small Talk with Debra Fine
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of What One Thing? Smart Meetings Editorial Director JT Long sits down with Debra Fine, author of the Fine Art of Small Talk with tips for networking and getting back to connecting with people in person. Produced by: Eming Piansay
What One Thing Made All of the Difference? How It All Began
Send us Fan MailOn this first episode of What One Thing Smart Meetings Editorial Director JT Long Chats with Smart Meetings CEO founder Marin Bright for a quick 15-minutes on the personal events that became the catalyst to her founding Bright Business Media and Smart Meetings Extraordinary Experiences. Produced by: Eming Piansay
