Podcast
The Events Insight
Hosted by Jack Saward & Karen Edwards · EN
Welcome to The Events Insight, created to entertain, enlighten and inspire anyone involved in or thinking of joining our exciting and diverse events industry. We bring you illuminating tales from some amazing people in a vast array of roles and from all across the globe. Each week we chat to a different guest and share their stories with you; how and why they got into events, what they’ve learned on the way and why they’re still here!
25episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Helping Create Momentum Every Day - With Richard Smith
Sep 901:01:12Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Jack and Karen chat with Richard Smith, a passionate events professional whose journey started with a defining moment on a balcony overlooking Hall 3 at Birmingham’s ICC.Now Chief Commercial Officer at Wyboston Lakes Resort, Richard leads the commercial strategy across a diverse 400-acre site, driving growth across training venues, conference spaces, and serviced offices. With past roles at Compass Group, Yarnfield Park, and nearly a decade at the NEC Group, Richard brings a deep understanding of what makes venues , and people thrive.He shares insights on leadership, venue strategy, and why creating momentum (for yourself and others) is the key to long-term success in this fast-paced industry.From quiet moments of clarity to boardroom decision-making, Richard’s story is one of purpose, progress, and people-first thinking.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;https://www.thenec.co.ukFind out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;https://wavecast.ioOur Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;https://mommysboy.co.ukOur partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williamshttps://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVhttps://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summerLicense code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3HFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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Always Say Yes, You Never Know Where It’ll Take You - With Sarah Slater
Sep 200:59:47Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThis week, Jack and Karen welcome Sarah Slater, a true force in the live entertainment industry and a champion of saying yes to unexpected opportunities.Now leading the Music & Festivals division at Ticketmaster UK, Sarah’s career has taken her from production management in outreach programmes to senior roles in ticketing and e-commerce. With over 15 years of experience, she’s built a reputation for trusted leadership, strategic growth, and solid relationships with some of the UK’s biggest promoters and event organisers.Sarah shares her winding journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why she swears by the mantra: “Always make sure you’re doing a good job — you never know who’s watching!”If you’re looking for inspiration, career insights, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story from the world of live events, this one’s for you.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;https://www.thenec.co.ukFind out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;https://wavecast.ioOur Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;https://mommysboy.co.ukOur partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williamshttps://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVhttps://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summerLicense code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3HFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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Bringing the Happy Every Day - With Matt Turner
Aug 2601:00:45Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Jack and Karen are joined by Matt Turner, founder of Clownfish Events and self-declared Head of Team Flourishment, for an energising conversation about culture, creativity, and what it takes to build a workplace people actually love.From launching a DJ business at 18 with a shed full of kit and his dad’s Toyota Previa, to winning The Sunday Times Best Place to Work 2025, Matt shares how Clownfish has grown into a standout name in the corporate events space.But success here isn’t just about the events. It’s about people. Matt’s focus on employee wellbeing, bold leadership, and doing things with heart (and fun!) has set a new benchmark for the industry, and he’s just getting started.Expect inspiration, laughs, and a reminder that happiness and high performance aren’t mutually exclusive.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;https://www.thenec.co.ukFind out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;https://wavecast.ioOur Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;https://mommysboy.co.ukOur partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williamshttps://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVhttps://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summerLicense code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3HFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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The Power of Purpose in Events and Community - With PJ Ellis
Aug 1901:00:50Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this season opener, Jack and Karen sit down with the ever-inspiring PJ Ellis, a proud Brummie, seasoned charity campaigner, and passionate community advocate.PJ shares the story behind launching the Harry Moseley Charity Ball, co-founding LoveBrum, and raising nearly £1 million for causes close to his heart. From tackling homelessness to mentoring start-ups, PJ’s journey proves how purpose-led projects can leave a lasting legacy.Now a BBC Radio WM presenter and founder of the men's mental health initiative Mommy's Boy, PJ opens up about the personal experiences driving his mission, and how events have played a central role in bringing people together for good.Whether you're in the events world or just love a good story with heart, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what it means to make an impact.Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;https://www.thenec.co.ukFind out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;https://wavecast.ioOur Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;https://mommysboy.co.ukOur partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summerLicense code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3HFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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The Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 14
Mar 19, 202500:56:08Tap to summarizeSend a textAs Season 14 of The Events Insight Podcast comes to a close, we’re wrapping things up in style, as we always do! Joining Jack and Karen for this special episode are two fantastic industry professionals and avid podcast listeners, Charlotte Dowdell and Rajiah Rodien, who bring their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the conversation.Charlotte, with over a decade of experience in hospitality and events, is known for her meticulous planning, positive attitude, and ability to turn events into magical experiences. Rajiah, an emerging talent in the industry, blends academic expertise with hands-on experience, having worked on major events like Bunkered Live, the British F1 Grand Prix, and the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.Together, they take a deep dive into Season 14, sharing their thoughts on our six incredible guests and reflecting on the key takeaways from each episode. Expect insights, inspiration, and maybe even a few surprises as they discuss what resonated most with them.Tune in now for a lively discussion and a final look back at another fantastic season! Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor Wyboston Lakes Resort via;https://www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Nowie via;https://www.nowie.org/Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is Sock and Buskin Marketing and PR ;https://sockandbuskinmarketing.co.uk/Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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Sustainable Events Made Simple: Easy Wins - With Lisa Sweeting
Feb 26, 202500:55:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Events Insight, Jack and Karen sit down with Lisa Sweeting, an event professional with 18 years of experience in corporate, private, and charity events. Lisa is the founder of Green Sense Events, a company dedicated to minimising environmental impact while ensuring events are socially inclusive and accessible.Since launching Green Sense Events in 2020, Lisa has worked with a diverse range of clients, including High 5 Events, One Two Agency (formerly Glasgows), Decordia, COP26 and the UK Government, and Oxygen House. Her work spans from developing sustainability strategies and action plans to delivering full-scale events with a greener approach.Lisa shares her insights on the 'easy wins' for making events more sustainable, tackling key topics such as waste reduction, recycling, and changing habits within the industry. She’s passionate about starting conversations that drive real change and now incorporates training into her work to help event professionals take action.Tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration for making sustainability a natural part of your event planning process.Learn more about Lisa’s training and initiatives: https://www.greensenseevents.co.uk/training-eventsKeep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor Wyboston Lakes Resort via;https://www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Nowie via;https://www.nowie.org/Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is Sock and Buskin Marketing and PR ;https://sockandbuskinmarketing.co.uk/Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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Curiosity will get you everywhere - With Adam Roberts
Feb 19, 202501:03:31Tap to summarizeAdam has been working within the Events Industry for over twenty years, firstly as a Lighting technician and Rigger before moving into the Safety Role after a non-work related accident. He specialises in large scale one-off events where he can use his role as a consultant to facilitate all aspects of the event. His career has allowed him to work across many sectors including touring, exhibitions, sport, theatre and corporate events, right across across the world.You will hear how Adam is keen to promote health and well-being within the industry and is a board member of a diabetes charity based in the West Midlands. This conversation with Jack and Karen went in so many different directions and allows you to truly understand how your career can be shaped by so many different things, both people and personal circumstances. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor Wyboston Lakes Resort via;https://www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Nowie via;https://www.nowie.org/Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is Sock and Buskin Marketing and PR ;https://sockandbuskinmarketing.co.uk/Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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Rising to the challenge - With Charlie Gardener
Feb 12, 202500:51:28Tap to summarizeKaren and Jack wlecome another different voice onto the podcast this week as they welcome Charlie Gardener to the show. This episode was actually done in person out on location, so you will hear the difference in the interaction and audio. After a decade of experience in legal, financial and sales roles, Charlie, alongside her engineer husband Lloyd, took the first step in business ownership in 2013. They recognised an increasing opportunity within the UK construction, utilities and civils sectors and, after turning their first business into an employee-owned trust, were selected as the obvious choice of UK partner for the premium German manufacturer RSP. Since RSP UK was formed in 2016, the business has gone from strength to strength and has grown to a team of over 40 specialists now serving customers all across the UK.She shares her unique perspective of why the events sector is so important to their business development model and how they get best value when investing in their approach to events. We hope you enjoy the insights as much as we did chatting them through with Charlie. Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor Wyboston Lakes Resort via;https://www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Nowie via;https://www.nowie.org/Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is Sock and Buskin Marketing and PR ;https://sockandbuskinmarketing.co.uk/Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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What comes after the life of a professional athlete? - With Drew Lasker
Feb 5, 202500:57:17Tap to summarizeDrew Lasker is a former 16-year professional European basketball player. He participated in the 2018 Commonwealth Games representing England and won a total of 11 Titles in the British Basketball League.He is passionate about helping others become the Best Version of Themselves.Drew is working in media Presenting, Reporting and Commentating for the likes of Sky Sports and DAZN, whilst also Co-Host of a British Basketball League Audio & Visual Podcast (The Drew and Jay Podcast).When it comes to work on TV and on the Microphone Drew believes in research and preparation, and most importantly, listening to yourself back. His view is that its a great way to understand your voice and your tone, and what people are hearing from you. He is currently the Head Coach of Northumbria University, Founder of TrainHarder21 & Co-Founder of 21 Media & 21 Foundation. He doesnt sit still, and you'll appreciate that when you listen to the episode!Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor Wyboston Lakes Resort via;https://www.wybostonlakes.co.uk/Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Nowie via;https://www.nowie.org/Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is Sock and Buskin Marketing and PR ;https://sockandbuskinmarketing.co.uk/Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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The Events Insight - Its a Wrap Season 13
Sep 25, 202400:43:20Tap to summarizeWelcome to the Wrap Session of Season 13! It's been a truly fantastic season as Jack and Karen have explored the globe with six incredible events industry professionals. From prop making to overlay, jet skiing to LEGO building, we’ve covered it all!For today's wrap-up, we’ve got a few changes to the lineup. Jack is currently out of the country, handling client and exhibition builds in Las Vegas, so the wonderful Jenny Davies has stepped in to join Karen. And while one of our listener guests couldn't make it, we’re thrilled to have the fabulous Laura Bradley with us for this session!A little bit about our amazing co-hosts today:Jenny DaviesJenny is a Conference and Events Officer at Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford. With a background in Stage Management and Technical Theatre, she’s worked in venue management and event production, and now plays a key role in delivering a variety of events, from Freshers Weeks to corporate conferences and educational programs.Laura BradleyWith over fifteen years in marketing and journalism, Laura began her career as an intern covering World Superbikes. As social media platforms grew, so did her expertise, leading her to help businesses and individuals build their online presence. In 2023, she founded Sock and Buskin Marketing and PR, after a successful stint as Head of Marketing for a construction company.Join Karen, Jenny, and Laura as they dive into all the highlights from this season. We hope you enjoy the recording!Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via; www.theeventsinsight.com/www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/ See more about our Season Sponsor RedBox Events via;https://www.redboxevents.com/Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor The Hospitality Partnership via;https://www.hospitality-partnership.com/Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is Fuchsia Exhibition & Conference Services; https://www.fuchsia-exhibition-services.com/Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/Music Credits go to;Artist: Cathrine RannusTitle: The Events Insight Theme MusicMusic from #Uppbeat:Forever - Sega Williams https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/foreverLicense code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEVFly Away - Mountaineerhttps://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-awayLicense code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTWClarity - Zoohttps://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarityLicense code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL
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