Why does one of the world’s most powerful industries still struggle with fragmentation, burnout, and undervaluation?

In this powerful episode of Production Value Matters, host Matthew Byrne sits down with Stacy Wyatt—publisher, producer, and founder of Canadian Special Events (CSE). Together, they unpack the urgent challenges facing the events industry and why now is the time to act. From unpaid overtime to the broken RFP process, Stacy explains why the Business of Events initiative is mobilizing professionals across Canada to finally push for unified standards and real accountability.

Listeners will hear why she believes peer pressure and FOMO may be the key drivers of reform, how Canadian collaboration stands out on the global stage, and what event professionals can do right now to push for authenticity and purpose in their work. Stacy also reflects on her passion for events, the unique power of live connection, and the lessons learned from building Canada’s largest event professional community.

What You’ll Learn:

Why the industry must unify around standards to move forward
The hidden costs of burnout and overtime in corporate events
How RFP reform could transform fairness and transparency
Why collective adoption, not associations alone, will create change
The role of authenticity, purpose, and connection in event design
How Canadian event practices compare to global markets
The dangers of tokenism in cultural representation
Why “festivalization” and AI are shaping the future of events

About the Guest:

Stacy Wyatt is a Canadian event professional, marketing strategist, publisher, and producer known for designing innovative conferences, trade shows, and brand experiences. As the force behind Canadian Special Events, she has built Canada’s largest community of event professionals and founded hallmark events like CSE Live and the Canadian Event Awards. Her career includes over a decade at the University of Manitoba leading 900+ events, including the opening of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. Stacy is a passionate advocate for elevating the industry through innovation, education, and equity.

Add your voice to the conversation about the future of events and take the Business of Events Survery HERE.

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Follow Matt on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewbyrnecsep

Follow Stacy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-wyatt-canada/

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