Event Tech Podcast

Brandt Krueger and Will Curran check in on the highlights of CES 2025, discussing innovative technologies and their potential impact on the events industry. They explore sustainable tech, AI advancements, and futuristic concepts while emphasizing the importance of looking beyond immediate products to long-term possibilities.Discussions Include:E-ink digital posters and their potential use in event signageNvidia's AI advancements and personal AI computersSustainable technologies like paper-based batteries and salt-simulating spoonsThe future of cameras and privacy in smart homes and devicesQuotable Quotes (Should you choose to share):"Look for the breakthrough concepts, not the breakthrough products." - Brandt Krueger"I love this idea that you can toss it in your garden and this is going to decompose." - Will Curran, on paper-based batteries"Do I think we'll ever reach a point where we're just OK with having cameras everywhere? Maybe someday, but I mean, it's not going to be soon." - Brandt Krueger"I was watching it and ... I was like yeah, there wasn't very much stuff that made me go 'My God! Take my money right now!'" - Will Curran

In this bonus episode from February 2023, hosts Brandt Krueger and Will Curran are joined by Wayne Johnson Jr., Creative Director at EideCom, to discuss the revolutionary impact of AI tools on event design and production. They explore how AI is transforming the creative process, from generating stage designs to streamlining proposal creation, and debate the future implications for the events industry.Discussion Include:The evolution of AI tools in event design and their potential to revolutionize the creative processUsing AI to generate stage designs, event layouts, and visual conceptsLeveraging AI for faster turnaround times and improved client presentationsThe importance of human creativity and taste in conjunction with AI-generated contentQuotable Quotes (Should you choose to share):"We are using it as a tool - it just allows us to do more you know with less and in faster time" - Wayne Johnson Jr."I feel like AI is the car for the mind. You don't have to think about balancing, you don't have to think about pedaling, you just say go and you put a little effort and it takes you exactly where you want to go." - Will Curran"It's not automation, this is a tool for someone creative like Wayne who's going to recognize the colors and things like that... it's garbage in, garbage out." - Brandt Krueger"All of these tools are just going to make us better at our jobs and better at what we do and better at giving the client what they want as quickly as possible." - Brandt Krueger"AI is just another burnt stick. We've always been artists who use whatever tool comes to them." - Wayne Johnson Jr.Personal apologies to Wayne for misplacing this episode. You rock, man!

In this BONUS episode (recorded in February 2023 and recently found in the couch cushions), Brandt Krueger and Will Curran dive deep into the latest developments in AI technology, focusing on the recent announcements from Microsoft's Bing and Google's Bard. They discuss the potential impact of these AI-powered search engines on various industries, including event planning, and explore the implications for content creators and information providers.Discussion Points:• The recent announcements of AI-powered search engines by Microsoft (Bing) and Google (Bard)• Potential applications of AI in the event planning industry, such as venue finding and RFP processing• The importance of staying current with AI technologies and their potential impact on various job rolesQuotable Quotes (Should you choose to share):• "If right now you're like 'Hell no, this is not going to work, this is not going to help me,' I would be really afraid. I'd be pressuring you right now to at least be playing with this stuff to be aware of it." - Will Curran• "The future for your job is not 'Can you do these things?' but 'Can you use these tools now to leverage even further?'" - Will Curran• "I think hopefully what folks are taking away from this is the clear difference in how we are talking about this again versus how we've been talking about the metaverse and stuff like that." - Brandt Krueger• "Every week for the last month solid, something new has popped into my head of like, 'Oh, I know how we could use this' or 'Oh, I know how this is going to impact events.'" - Brandt Krueger

Brandt Krueger and Will Curran sit down with Veselin (Vesko) Milev and Dessislava (Dessy) Marinova from Eventex to explore the world of event awards and event technology. As Eventex celebrates its 15th anniversary, Vesko and Dessy share insights into the global reach of the Eventex Awards, the evolution of their fully online format, and the impact of the Evalato awards management software. The team also dives into how creativity and innovation are recognized on a global scale and the fascinating trends emerging in event management.Discussions Include:The growth and global reach of the Eventex AwardsHow Evalato simplifies the awards judging process and ensures fairnessThe shift to fully online awards and its sustainability benefitsTrends in event design and technology across the worldUsing Eventex winners as creative inspiration for future event planningThe importance of transparency in award scoring and feedbackPredictions on how AI and sustainability will shape the future of event awardsQuotable Quotes:“Eventex is not just about competition; it's a learning experience.” – Vesko Milev"It’s not about the size of your event; it’s about the creativity and achieving your goals." – Brandt Krueger“Sustainability and AI will continue to drive the future of event management.” – Dessy Marinova“The software takes into account how you score in the morning versus the evening—personal bias gets neutralized.” – Vesko Milev

Brandt Krueger and Will Curran dive deep into the distinctions between consumer, prosumer, and professional audio-visual gear. Using personal experiences and industry examples, they explore the evolution of tech and how it affects everything from home setups to event production. From audio chain optimization and home theater upgrades to the balance between cost and quality, the conversation touches on the nuances of choosing the right gear for the right application. Whether you're looking to refine your home theater or optimize your event tech, this episode is packed with insights into making informed tech decisions.Discussions Include:Differences between consumer, prosumer, and professional-grade equipmentAudio chain optimization for home studios and theatersWill’s home theater journey: From Sonos to high-end in-wall speakersExploring the balance between quality and budget with tech purchasesUsing Dante for digital audio networking and audio routingBuying used gear: When to take the leap and the risks involvedThe ubiquity of networking gear and its impact on event tech setupsAnalog vs. digital: Pros and cons of keeping audio fidelity highQuotable Quotes:"Buy once, cry once." – Alex Lindsay and the Office Hours panel"As you move from consumer to prosumer to professional, the improvements start to become incremental, but the costs don’t." – Brandt Krueger"You can start low and work your way up, but the key is understanding where the trade-offs are." – Brandt Krueger"Sometimes the satisfaction from gear isn’t linear to the price—you can obsess over small improvements." – Will Curran

In this episode, Brandt and Will experiment "live" with the latest in voice cloning from ElevenLabs, and discuss the implications for the events industry. They explore how tools like ElevenLabs' voice cloning and AI-generated sound effects could revolutionize event production and multilingual accessibility. From instant voice cloning that mimics the hosts' voices to generating custom sound effects on the fly, the discussion highlights the incredible potential - and some concerns - surrounding these new technologies. They also touch on the importance of security measures, like establishing a family codeword, to protect against potential misuse of AI-generated voices.Discussions Include:The power and accuracy of AI voice cloning with tools like ElevenLabs.Practical applications for event tech, including creating multilingual event content and custom sound effects.The potential impact of AI on jobs in the voiceover and sound design industries.Security concerns and the importance of family codewords to guard against AI voice spoofing.Quotable Quotes:"This was terrible a year ago... now it's really pretty good because the only thing they're focusing on is the text-to-speech stuff." — Brandt Krueger"Imagine the future though, that I could put a voice filter over myself and completely change my voice too." — Will Curran"Professional voiceover actors should be a little nervous about this and you should start looking into your contracts." — Brandt Krueger"We could just change [our voices] over to Morgan Freeman it'll be awesome." — Will Curran

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, Brandt Krueger and Will Curran explore the expanding landscape of internet connectivity for events. The duo discusses how advancements like Starlink and Peplink are revolutionizing how we think about internet access, making it possible to host events in previously unreachable locations. From streaming live video from the middle of the desert to setting up robust networks in remote national parks, Brandt and Will discuss the tools and technologies that are breaking down barriers and opening up new possibilities for event planners. They also touch on the potential of solar-powered networks, the implications of widespread satellite internet, and the creative opportunities these technologies present for future events.Discussions Include:Starlink's Impact on Event Connectivity: How Starlink's satellite internet is transforming connectivity, allowing for reliable internet access anywhere.Peplink and Speed Fusion Technology: Combining multiple internet connections to create seamless and stable networks for events.Outdoor Event Possibilities: Exploring how enhanced connectivity could make outdoor and remote events more viable and engaging.The Future of Event Tech: Speculating on the next steps in internet technology, including solar-powered systems and drone-supported events.Quotable Quotes:"In this day and age, connectivity is on a whole different level than we’ve ever seen before." — Will Curran"It’s not just about staying connected anymore; it’s about how far we can push the boundaries of where and how we host events." — Brandt Krueger"What would you do if you had internet access literally anywhere?" — Brandt Krueger

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, Brandt Krueger and Will Curran dive into the latest and greatest in event tech from things like concerts and the Olympics. From groundbreaking uses of 3D rendering and AI in corporate events to the jaw-dropping visual effects at concerts, they explore how technology is transforming the live event experience. The conversation also touches on the innovative approaches seen at the recent Olympic ceremonies and how they blend tradition with cutting-edge tech. Whether it’s the latest in LED wall integration or the creative use of drones and cameras, this episode offers a rich exploration of where event technology is headed.Discussions Include:VR and AI in Event Production: How VR and AI are being used to create photorealistic environments for clients, allowing them to virtually explore event setups before they happen.Concert Innovations: The integration of 3D visuals and live lighting at Foo Fighters concerts, creating immersive experiences that blend real and virtual elements.LED Walls and Beyond: The growing use of LED walls in live performances and how they can be creatively redesigned for corporate events.Olympics Opening Ceremony: A breakdown of some of the tech behind the Paris Olympics' opening ceremony, including the stunning use of lighting on the Eiffel Tower and a floating mechanical horse carrying the Olympic flag.Trends in Spectacle: A reflection on the current phase of iterative innovation in event tech, where the focus is on refining existing technologies rather than introducing entirely new ones.Quotable Quotes (should you choose to share):"It’s not just about what’s new; it’s about how you creatively use the tech that’s already available." — Brandt Krueger"We’re seeing artists and event producers push the boundaries of what’s possible, creating experiences that are not just visually stunning but also deeply immersive." — Will Curran"The Olympics showed us that even in the most traditional events, there’s room for technological innovation that enhances the storytelling without overshadowing it." — Brandt Krueger

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, Will Curran and Brandt Krueger dive into the fascinating parallels between the event industry and video games. They explore how concepts from popular games like Fallout can be applied to enhance attendee experiences at events. From the importance of choice and exploration to the potential of gamification, they discuss innovative ideas to keep attendees engaged and satisfied. Plus, they touch on the evolution of event apps and how to gamify actions that truly matter without alienating parts of your audience.Discussions Include:How open-world games like Fallout can inform event designThe balance between too much and too little choice for attendeesThe potential pitfalls of traditional gamification methodsThe importance of meaningful engagement metricsThe future of event apps and wayfinding technologyQuotable Quotes Should You Choose to Share:"I think there's some things that are more metaphorical, more spiritual when it comes to how we design our events. More strategic, there we go- that's maybe a more better, gooder word." - Brandt Krueger"In the same way that we say we want more white space, we want the choice of more white space." - Will Curran"Let's refocus our gamification on the things that actually matter, like networking and engagement with exhibitors." - Will Curran"It's almost worse than not having gamification at all because now I feel deflated." - Brandt Krueger

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, Brandt Krueger and Will Curran explore the game-changing features of the Arc Browser. They share their personal experiences with this innovative browser, detailing its unique functionalities and how it stands out from traditional browsers like Chrome and Safari. From its clean, distraction-free interface to its seamless integration with AI and enhanced productivity tools, Brandt and Will dive into why Arc Browser might be the future of web browsing.Discussions Include:Introduction and initial thoughts on the Arc BrowserUnique features: clean interface, sidebar, pinned "bookmarks", and spacesTransitioning from other browsers like Chrome, Safari, and EdgeAI integration in Arc Browser and Arc Search appThe importance of privacy and potential monetization strategies for ArcComparisons with other browsers and the future of browsingPros and cons: current bugs, desktop vs. mobile experience, and moreQuotable Quotes Should You Choose to Share:"Arc Browser feels like what Chrome did when it first came out—revolutionary and refreshing." — Brandt Krueger"The 'Browse for Me' feature in Arc Search is a game-changer. It's like having a custom-built website for every search." — Will Curran"The Arc Browser team has rethought the entire browsing experience, making it more intuitive and user-friendly." — Brandt Krueger"It's the first time I've been excited about a web browser in 20 years. Arc Browser is truly that innovative." — Will Curran"If you're looking for a browser that respects your privacy while boosting productivity, Arc Browser is worth a try." — Brandt KruegerWill forgot to send me his referral link so here's mine- muahahahaha! (BK): https://arc.net/gift/c123f69d

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, Brandt Krueger and Will Curran dive into the latest advancements in AI, specifically focusing on OpenAI's newly announced text-to-video engine, Sora. They explore its potential impacts on the events industry, the challenges and ethical considerations of AI-generated content, and the exciting future possibilities this technology could unlock. From transforming stock footage creation to enhancing projection mapping, Brandt and Will discuss how Sora could revolutionize event production.Discussions Include:Introduction to OpenAI's Sora and its capabilities.Comparisons between Sora and previous AI developments like ChatGPT and Gemini 1.5.Early impressions and examples of Sora-generated videos.Potential applications of AI video generation in the events industry.Ethical concerns and legal implications of AI-generated content.Future possibilities for AI in video editing and event production.Personal experiences and insights into current AI tools being used in events.Quotable Quotes (should you choose to share):"The genie is out of the bottle ... There is no putting it back in." - Brandt Krueger"Imagine creating video moments of CAD designs with a fly-in drone shot. The creative possibilities are endless." - Will Curran"It's about banning the behavior, not the technology." - Brandt KruegerAnd for the record, we were using colons in our episode titles and words like "delve" long before AI.

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, hosts Brandt Krueger and Will Curran dive into the highly-anticipated Apple Vision Pro. With reviews pouring in, they discuss the pros and cons of this new spatial computing device, its hefty price tag, and its potential impact on both personal and professional environments. Spoiler alert, neither of them has purchased the device themselves, so they analyze feedback from early users and tech reviewers, debating whether the Vision Pro is worth the investment or just another flashy gadget. Tune in to hear their insights and predictions on the future of augmented reality in the events industry and beyond!Discussions Include:Introduction to Vision Pro: Brandt and Will's first impressions and initial thoughts.Price and Accessibility: The high cost of the Vision Pro and additional accessories.User Reviews: Contrasting feedback from influencers and everyday users.Positives: Transformative potential for personal and professional use, such as workspace customization and immersive media experiences.Negatives: Issues with field of view, comfort, and the effectiveness of the pass-through feature.Future Potential: Speculations on how Apple might improve the device and its applications for events and social interactions.Social Implications: The awkwardness of wearing bulky headsets in public and the societal adjustments needed for widespread adoption.Quotable Quotes (Should you choose to share):Brandt Krueger: "It's really, really expensive ... You're looking at forty-five hundred at least by the time you get rolling, if not a heck of a lot more."Will Curran: "I've seen a lot of positive things about putting windows all around ... being able to take a blank room and turn it into a workspace is really exciting."Brandt Krueger: "Is it worth it? And for me, as of right now, **SPOILERS***, based on what I've seen."Will Curran: "I think Apple has the ability to universally create the standard for avatars... Imagine an avatar store, just like the app store, where people could sell avatars into your platform."Brandt Krueger: "It feels like we're just skirting around the edges of all of this... we all really want, just actual transparent lenses, Tony Stark style."Tune in for a deep dive into the pros, cons, and future possibilities of Apple's Vision Pro, and find out if this new tech is truly groundbreaking or just another high-priced novelty.

In this session from ETL Vegas 2024, industry experts Will and Brandt dive deep into the practical applications of generative AI for event planners. They debunk common myths and provide actionable insights on leveraging AI tools to enhance creativity, efficiency, and productivity in event planning. From overcoming the blank page syndrome to generating impressive stage designs in minutes, this episode is packed with real-world examples and strategies to help event professionals stay ahead in a competitive landscape.Discussions IncludeThe importance of learning AI to stay competitive in the industry.How to use AI tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and Adobe Firefly for various event planning tasks.Overcoming creative blocks and speeding up proposal and content creation.Real-world examples of AI-generated stage designs and artwork adjustments.The future of AI in events: chatbots, automated summaries, and more.Quotable Quotes Should You Choose to Share:"It's not that AI is going to take your job, but people who know how to use AI are going to take your job.""Generative AI can help you overcome the blank page syndrome and get your creative juices flowing.""Imagine feeding all your event information into a chatbot that can answer attendee questions in real time.""We used AI to expand a 16x9 image seamlessly into a panoramic view, and the client didn't even notice the difference.Thanks, and be sure to connect with us on LinkedIn and give us feedback!

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, hosts Will Curran and Brandt Krueger embark on an insightful journey through the evolving landscape of virtual and hybrid events. They delve into the shifts in event technology trends post-pandemic, the nuances of audience engagement, and the future potential of virtual and hybrid event formats. The conversation touches on the reevaluation of event strategies, the role of AI in content saturation, and the speculative impact of upcoming tech like Apple's VR headset on the industry.Discussions Include:The decline of "virtual event software" and the rise of "webinar platforms".The enduring value and challenges of executing successful hybrid events.The influence of remote work on event attendance and format preferences.The impact of AI on content creation and consumption within the event space.Speculations on the future role of AR and VR technologies in enhancing event experiences.Quotable Quotes Should You Choose to Share:Will Curran: "We're seeing a decline in hybrid, which is really interesting. It's like the event world is retracting back from the virtual edge."Brandt Krueger: "Hybrid events have the power to combine the best of both worlds, but the real challenge lies in executing them correctly."Will Curran: "The future of event tech might not lie in massive shifts but in how we incrementally improve the virtual and in-person experiences."Brandt Krueger: "Even as technology evolves, the core of event planning remains about connecting people and sharing knowledge."

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, hosts Will Curran and Brandt Krueger engage in a candid discussion about the importance of safety in event production, spurred by the tragic incident of a CEO's death at a company event. They dive into the specifics of event rigging, the necessity of professional and experienced staffing, and share personal anecdotes highlighting the critical need for safety planning and execution. The conversation also touches on the broader aspects of event safety, including emergency preparedness and the importance of having safety equipment like first aid kits and defibrillators on hand.Discussions Include:Safety is not just a responsibility but a crucial aspect of event planning, emphasized by this tragic incidentThe discussion of rigging safety serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers in event production and the importance of using professional servicesBrandt and Will advocate for comprehensive safety measures, including the presence of first aid kits and defibrillators, underscoring the collective responsibility for event safetyQuotable quotes (should you choose to share):"Just about the worst possible thing you can think of that could happen at an event." - Brandt, discussing the impact of having a death at one of your events."Safety is about planning ahead, being prepared, and thinking through everything that could happen." - Will, highlighting the importance of proactive safety measures in event planning."The safety of everyone is everyone's job." - Will, emphasizing the collective responsibility for maintaining safety at events.

This episode of the Event Tech Podcast features an insightful discussion on the integration of technology in trade shows, particularly focusing on the role of e-commerce in enhancing trade show experiences. The guests, Vinit Patil, CEO and Co-Founder of Ribbon, a hybrid trade show platform, and Jesse James, the co-founder of ShoppeObject and VP of International Market Centers, share their experiences and perspectives on how technology is transforming the trade show landscape.Key Topics:Integration of E-Commerce in Trade Shows: Exploration of how Ribbon, a hybrid trade show platform, integrates e-commerce into the trade show experience, making it omnichannel and more accessible for both vendors and attendees.User Experience and Aesthetics in Technology: Discussion on the importance of user experience and aesthetics in technology implementation, especially in curating trade show experiences.Challenges and Opportunities in Technology Adoption: Insights into the varying levels of comfort and challenges faced by exhibitors in adopting new technology, and how mandatory participation in digital platforms can be beneficial.The Future of Trade Show Technology: Predictions about future advancements in trade show technology, including potential integrations and new features that could enhance user experience.Role of Curated Content and Discovery: Emphasis on the importance of curated content and the opportunity for discovery in trade shows, highlighting the significance of storytelling and editorial elements in digital platforms.Find out more at meetribbon.com, and especially because Brandt couldn't seem to get it right in the episode, that's shoppeobject.comS...H...O...P...P...E... dot com :)

This episode of the Event Tech Podcast features co-hosts Will Curran and Brandt Krueger engaging in a lively and diverse discussion about the latest trends and applications of AI in event technology, with a particular focus on their personal experiences with various AI tools and platforms.Key Topics:Developments in AI and Event Technology: Discussion of recent advancements in AI and how they are influencing the event tech landscape.Personal Experiences with AI Tools: Will and Brandt share their experiences using different AI tools, such as ChatGPT and MidJourney, highlighting their functionalities and practical applications.Google I.O. Announcements: Insights into Google I.O.'s latest announcements, particularly those related to AI integration into workspace tools and their implications.Security and Ethical Concerns: Addressing security issues in AI tools, including a White House initiative for hacking AI systems at DEF CON to test their vulnerabilities.Future of AI in Everyday Applications: Predictions and expectations for the integration of AI into daily tools and platforms, like Photoshop and Raycast, and how these advancements could shape user experiences.Thanks for listening!(This episode was recorded before Will became Head of Klik for Bizzabo)

SummaryIn this episode, Will and Brandt discuss their favorite clothing, bags, and organizers for event professionals. They recommend the Patagonia Torrent Shell rain jacket for its breathability and packability. Will also suggests the Arcade Adventure Belt, a comfortable and durable belt for everyday use. When it comes to bags, Will recommends the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 backpack for its unique design and comfort, while Brandt shares his love for the eBags Professional Slim Laptop Bag. They also discuss the use of pouches and organizers to keep cables and chargers organized in their bags.TakeawaysThe Patagonia Torrent Shell rain jacket is a recommended choice for event professionals due to its breathability and packability.The Arcade Adventure Belt is a comfortable and durable belt option for everyday use.The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 backpack and the eBags Professional Slim Laptop Bag are both recommended for their design and functionality.Using pouches and organizers can help keep cables and chargers organized in bagsNote: This podcast was recorded in 2023 before Will left day-to-day operations at Endless Events and began his work as Head of Klik for Bizzabo

In this episode of the Event Tech Podcast, hosts Will Curran and Brandt Krueger delve into the world of financial and travel management technology in event planning. They discuss innovative tools and strategies for handling corporate expenses, especially focusing on the use of corporate credit cards and employee expense management. The conversation highlights how these technologies can streamline processes, provide security, and improve efficiency in managing event-related expenditures. Will and Brandt also share their personal experiences and insights on various financial tools like Ramp, Brex, and Lasso, elaborating on their features, benefits, and potential impact on business operations.In this episode:Introduction of Financial Management Tools: Discussion about how tools like Ramp and Brex can enhance efficiency in handling corporate expenses, specifically in the event industry.Benefits of Corporate Credit Cards: Exploration of how corporate credit cards can simplify expense tracking, provide security, and manage employee spending with customizable limits and rules.Travel Management and Integration: Insights into how these tools assist in managing corporate travel, setting budgets, and adhering to company policies.Virtual Credit Cards and Security: The advantages of using virtual credit cards for better security and control over online subscriptions and free trials.Lasso – A Comprehensive Freelancer Management Tool: An overview of Lasso as a tool for managing freelance staff, integrating travel management, and providing a centralized platform for event staffing.If you have any unique tools or strategies you use for corporate spending and travel management in your event planning business, share your insights with us! Reach out on LinkedIn, and we might feature them in a future episode. Stay tuned for more innovative discussions on the Event Tech Podcast!This episode was recorded in 2023 before Will Curran left day-to-day operations at Endless Events and became the Head of Klik for Bizzabo.

In this insightful episode of the EventTech Podcast, hosts Will Curran and Brandt Krueger engage in a comprehensive discussion about the complexities of per diems within the event industry. They explore various perspectives, including those of planners, companies, and freelancers, shedding light on the practicalities, challenges, and strategies related to per diem management. The episode also touches on related subjects such as company culture, meal preferences during events, and the significance of crew meals for team building.Topics include:Definition and Purpose of Per DiemsVariations in Per Diem RatesBudgeting and Impact on Event CostsCultural and Company Policy ConsiderationsMeal Preferences and Habits on Show SiteThe Per Diem "Game" and Employee PerspectivesInnovative Solutions and Tools for Managing Per DiemsImportance of Team Meals and Building CamaraderieJoin us by connecting on LinkedIn, joining the EventProfs Community, or by participating in the EventTech Chat!