Podcast
Event Planner Confessions
Hosted by Cohera · EN
Welcome to Event Planner Confessions, a Cohera podcast.
Every week, we dive into the candid, unfiltered stories of event professionals navigating the vibrant world of event management. From behind-the-scenes wins to lessons learned the hard way, we explore how creativity, collaboration, and a little chaos come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Hosted by the team at Cohera, we spotlight the people and passions that shape the industry, revealing what really goes on when the lights go up, the guests arrive, and the magic happens.
Tune in for insights, laughter, and confessions that celebrate the power of human connection and how events truly have the ability to change the world, one story at a time.
Disclaimer: These confessions and stories have been altered to ensure anonymity and protect the identities of the individuals or entities involved. Any identifying details have been modified. The purpose of sharing these stories is to foster learning, celebrate our profession, and honor our clients and partners across the hospitality industry.
Every week, we dive into the candid, unfiltered stories of event professionals navigating the vibrant world of event management. From behind-the-scenes wins to lessons learned the hard way, we explore how creativity, collaboration, and a little chaos come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Hosted by the team at Cohera, we spotlight the people and passions that shape the industry, revealing what really goes on when the lights go up, the guests arrive, and the magic happens.
Tune in for insights, laughter, and confessions that celebrate the power of human connection and how events truly have the ability to change the world, one story at a time.
Disclaimer: These confessions and stories have been altered to ensure anonymity and protect the identities of the individuals or entities involved. Any identifying details have been modified. The purpose of sharing these stories is to foster learning, celebrate our profession, and honor our clients and partners across the hospitality industry.
50episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How to Write Event Proposals That Win in 2025
May 13, 202500:37:46Tap to summarizeIf you've ever poured your heart into an event proposal only to get ghosted by the client, this one’s for you. In this episode, Samantha, Cara, and Ashley crack open the secrets behind proposals that don’t just impress. They win. From the biggest proposal mistakes to the small tweaks that seal the deal, this is your no-fluff guide to writing smarter, sharper, and more successful pitches in 2025. Bonus? We’ve got real proposal makeovers, spicy “hot or not” takes, and confessions you won’t believe actually happened.You’ll learn:The most common mistakes that get proposals rejected (and how to avoid them)How to turn vague ideas into value-packed, client-focused languageWhy following up like a pro can make or break your proposal’s success.A behind-the-scenes look at how we’d pitch a major influencer event (and why it works)
Transcribe →The Event Contract Mistakes Nobody Talks About
Apr 29, 202500:35:57Tap to summarizeContracts can be a corporate event planner’s greatest protection, or their biggest liability. A single overlooked clause can leave you footing the bill, trapped in unrealistic expectations, or worse, completely unprotected. In this episode, we’re breaking down the event contract mistakes that don’t get talked about, the hidden traps that have cost planners time and money, and the clauses you need to consider before you sign anything. If you think your contracts are airtight, think again.
Transcribe →If We Could Start Over in Event Planning, We’d Do THIS
Apr 15, 202500:34:26Tap to summarizeEvent planning may look effortless from the outside, with incredible venues, satisfied clients, and seamless experiences. But behind the scenes, it’s a constant battle against unexpected challenges, last-minute changes, and lessons learned the hard way. If we had the chance to start over, there are plenty of things we’d do differently. In this episode, we’re sharing our biggest regrets, the hard-earned lessons we wish we knew from the start, and the strategies that can help you sidestep the same pitfalls. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, these insights will change the way you plan events.
Transcribe →Welcome to Event Planner Confessions
Apr 7, 202500:01:27Tap to summarizeNo description available
Transcribe →This is Exactly Why Meetings Matter in 2025
Apr 3, 202500:22:50Tap to summarizeIn this special episode of Event Planner Confessions, we're celebrating Global Meetings Industry Day, a true holiday for our world of events! Hosted on April 3rd and powered by the U.S. Travel Association, this day shines a spotlight on the undeniable impact of in-person meetings across the globe. We dive into the heart of why meetings matter for people, communities, and businesses, and unpack how they’re shaping the future of connection and collaboration.Key takeaways:The human power of connection: How in-person events build trust 2x faster and foster relationships that elevate careers and companies alike.The community ripple effect: Discover how a 100-person meeting can impact 1,000+ local jobs and what that means for economic growth.Business transformation through events: From incentive trips to medical breakthroughs, we explore how meetings fuel innovation and strategic growth.Advocacy in action: Stats that will blow your mind (like attendees spending 10x what organizations do!) and why it’s time to shout the value of meetings from the rooftops.
Transcribe →The Career Shortcut Every Student Needs to Know
Mar 18, 202500:32:56Tap to summarizeThe journey from student to event planner is a unique one, full of exciting opportunities and unexpected lessons. In this episode, we’re diving into the path that James Madison University (JMU) alumni took to transition from passionate planners to successful professionals in the event industry.From pivotal academic choices to hands-on internships and career-defining moments, we’ll uncover the key experiences that helped shape their careers. Along the way, we’ll explore how networking, diverse experiences, and the essential role of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) have played a major role in their success.Whether you’re a student eager to break into the industry or a professional considering a new direction, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider knowledge to guide your next steps.Key discussion points:The academic and internship choices that set alumni on the path to success.How networking and diverse experiences shape a successful career in event planning.The importance of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in creating memorable, high-impact events.Real advice for aspiring event planners on standing out and navigating the industry.
Transcribe →What’s Changing in DMC with AI (and What’s Not)
Mar 4, 202500:24:04Tap to summarizeUnsurprisingly, AI has touched every sphere of society and economy, and the destination management industry isn’t the exception. In this episode, Cara and Ashley dive into the growing role of artificial intelligence in destination management and how far the AI disruption in the industry is getting. They explore how AI can streamline event logistics, enhance creativity, and improve personalization—but also where it falls short and why it can never (or at least not yet) replace the human experience. In this episode:The rapid adoption of AI in event planning (50% of planners plan to use AI by 2025)The role of AI tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and Microsoft Copilot in DMC operationsWhy event planners still need human expertise for execution and real-time problem-solving
Transcribe →When Fire, Floods, and Chocolate Mousse Strike
Feb 25, 202500:26:36Tap to summarizeHave you ever wondered how an event planner navigates the chaos of surprise monsoons, unexpected decor disasters, and even last-minute chocolate mousse dessert crises—all while keeping the show running smoothly?In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the wild, unpredictable world of event planning. From high-stakes problem-solving to behind-the-scenes chaos, we’re sharing real stories from the trenches—where quick thinking and resilience make or break the day.We’ll highlight the unpredictability and resilience required in the event planning industry. Join us for an eye-opening look at the moments no one sees, the sacrifices event pros make, and the magic they create to deliver unforgettable experiences.In this episode:How a team rebuilt an entire event’s decor overnight after a warehouse fireA planner’s 3 AM battle with chocolate mousse (and an unhelpful five-star resort)What happens when the entire client team is laid off mid-eventThe ultimate event planner injury: "Marathon Toe" and the best sneakers for the jobThe hilarious, sleep-deprived moment that almost led to a Red Bull shoplifting charge
Transcribe →The 2025 Event Trends You Can’t Afford to Ignore
Feb 4, 202500:30:20Tap to summarizeTrends are constantly evolving, and in 2025, it looks like luxury will take center stage more than ever. We’re talking curated, high-quality events that create memorable, FOMO-inducing experiences. Imagine immersive environments that bring sophistication, personalized touches that make your guests feel special, and mental health wellness becoming a priority. With luxury leading the way, exclusive destinations, unique event designs, and personalized service are setting a new bar for what’s possible. It's time to elevate your event game to a level of luxury and excitement that attendees can’t help but crave.Key discussion points: How personal touches and exceptional service can make your event stand out.Why exclusive, high-quality experiences that spark FOMO are essential for driving attendance, both in-person and virtually.The value of blending immersive design with wellness elements like yoga and sound baths to create a well-rounded, impactful event.
Transcribe →Event Trends We Wish Would Go Away
Jan 21, 202500:28:58Tap to summarizeAre we over balloon drops? Beyond tired of burlap mason jars? In this episode, we’re diving into the trends we think need to disappear from the event scene forever.We shake things up with a game of This or That to decide which event fads deserve to stick around, and which ones should be retired for good. From logistical nightmares to Instagram moments that aren’t worth the mess, we’re calling out the trends we’ve had enough of and sharing confessions about DIY disasters and client curveballs. Plus, we’re taking a moment to look at the trends we hope will shape 2025.Key discussion points:Balloon drops vs. confetti cannons: which one should go?Why chair covers, branded stress balls, and water bead centerpieces need to disappearPhoto booths, food trends, and welcome drinks—what’s working and what’s notHilarious confessions about DIY mishaps and client surprisesA sneak peek at exciting trends on the horizon for 2025
Transcribe →