DESIGN to CHANGE PODcast series 

A good conversation can shift the direction of change forever. Would you leave it to chance? 

Join the authors of the DESIGN to CHANGE book and explore this series of conversations with designer and event owners. 

Driven by the need and conversations with Event Owners and Event Designers who use the #EventCanvas around the world, this series explores the depth of the conversation to elevate your abilities sot look and act beyond the now. 

PODcast hosts include Ruud Janssen, Roel Frissen, Dennis Luijer and Paul Rulkens with illustrious change makers, designers and pioneers in the field of Design and beyond. 

for more details https://designtochange.online

DESIGN to CHANGE

DESIGN to CHANGE - PODcast - Designer Series - ONSTAGE and BACKSTAGE conversations

Welcome to the DESIGN to CHANGE podcast ONSTAGE
A conversation with Arturo Rago - Learning & Innovation Designer at IMD business school (https://www.imd.org/ ) in Lausanne Switzerland and was previously with the World Economic Forum as a designer for the Betazones(https://widgets.weforum.org/betazone/). 

Ruud Janssen will be having a conversation on his view as a designer on designing to change and how Arturo has experienced that in his career. And also towards his next step, which will be as a designer for the Canva Foundation (https://www.canva.com/about/).

Here are a few links to World Economic Forum WEF Betazone sessions mentioned by Arturo in this PODcast:
- Thando Hopa, the Beauty of Inclusion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q-aP_Ru4w8&t=44s 
- Maria Konnikova, How Not To Get Fooled: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=np24k4dsinI
- Hao Li, Deepfakes: Don't Believe What You See: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqFsaKhGdDY&t=24s
- Pete McBride: Into the Grand Canyon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQFKT4X63II
- Sinead Burke: Designing for Everyone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZD23fK28v0&t=17s

Or see the VODcast version of this session here: https://vimeo.com/559700550

To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out https://www.designtochange.online

Arturo Rago DESIGN to CHANGE - Designer Conversation Series - ONSTAGE - IMD

Welcome to the DESIGN to CHANGE podcast BACKSTAGE
A backstage conversation with Arturo Rago - Learning & Innovation Designer at IMD business school in Lausanne Switzerland and was previously with the World Economic Forum as a designer for the Betazones.

Ruud Janssen will be having a conversation on his view as a designer on designing to change and how Arturo has experienced that in his career. And also towards his next step, which will be as a designer for the Canva Foundation.

To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out https://www.designtochange.online

Arturo Rago DESIGN To CHANGE - Designer Conversation Series - BACKSTAGE - IMD with Ruud Janssen

Welcome to the DESIGN to CHANGE podcast ONSTAGE
A conversation with Nicole Armstrong, CMP, CMM, CED, DES - Strategic Event Designer at MITRE in Washington DC, USA and was previously with the Internet Society as a designer for groundbreaking award winning online and offline events across the globe. 

Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen of the Event Design Collective will be having a conversation on her views and experiences as a CED - Certified Event Designer on designing to change and how Nicole has experienced that in her global career. 

To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out https://www.designtochange.online

—————

Read Nicole Armstrong’s answers after reflecting on our conversations below: 

How do you involve others in the change you design for?

First, I pitch the vision. Along the lines of "imagine creating an event that did exactly what you wanted it to do. An event that changes people's behavior and left a lasting impact?" From there, I try to get others to think as strategically as possible by asking targeted questions and getting them to suspend disbelief - if even for a moment.

How do the events you design become markers of change in your organisation?

My favorite events are always the ones that upon reflection are clear delineators of before/after. I talk about these events and the transformation they offer when I'm working to get buy-in for Event Design. When I look back upon my career, always my favorite events were those that created lasting transformational change. What we are able to see before / after is clear! At the Internet Society, there were clear differences in staff engagement AFTER the all staff retreat in 2014. The Internet Society's InterCommunity 2015 event was a remarkable turning point in how the ISOC community engaged. While at MicroStrategy, the all employee cruises that took place from the mid-nineties to early 2000s were instrumental in creating and strengthening what become an indomitable corporate culture. At MITRE, the weekly CEO Update has transformed employee expectations about interacting with leadership.

How do you have that conversation with your event owner?

Getting buy-in from a skeptical event owner is always tricky. I start by sharing my experiences and my passion for transformational events. First-hand stories and passion create a powerful combination. It also doesn't hurt that the Event Design process while challenging is fundamentally fun to do.

How do you enable them to express their vision?

I start by asking about their outcome. I use questions like "what is the outcome you seek?" or "If your event did everything you wanted it to do, how would your attendees be different when they leave?" Or "What would your attendees do differently as a result of your event?" The interesting thing here is the transformation is ultimately a journey - starting with that event owner.

How do you enable them to connect the vision to the event story?

I think this can be one of the most fun aspects. There are so many different pathways to get from where we are today to the event owners vision. (And yes, some may be more effective than others.) But ultimately, having that event owner get creative about their vision - to build up in their own mind the fun/interesting/unique ideas that they want to realize can bring their passion to life.

How do you articulate the value it creates ?

Ah! This is where it can be fun to turn things around. I used formulations like: (using MITRE as an example) "What if I told you that your event would transform employee engagement and expectations of how to engage with leadership? Would you be interested?" It's funny, the organizations where I've seen events be truly transformational had leaders that were deeply in-tune with the power of events to serve their needs. They innately understood how to harness events and in many cases I did not need to "sell" the value.
————
Keen to answer these questions yourself? 
check out https://www.designtochange.online

Nicole Armstrong DESIGN to CHANGE - Designer Conversation Series - ONSTAGE - MITRE

Welcome to the DESIGN to CHANGE podcast ONSTAGE
A conversation with Nicole Armstrong, CMP, CMM, CED, DES - Strategic Event Designer at MITRE (https://www.mitre.org/ ) in Washington DC, USA and was previously with the Internet Society as a designer for groundbreaking award winning online and offline events across the globe. 

Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen of the Event Design Collective will be having a conversation on her views and experiences as a CED - Certified Event Designer on designing to change and how Nicole has experienced that in her global career. 

To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out https://www.designtochange.online

Nicole Armstrong DESIGN to CHANGE - Designer Conversation Series - BACKSTAGE - MITRE

Welcome to the DESIGN to CHANGE podcast ONSTAGE
A live conversation from the MPI World Education Congress 2021 in Las Vegas with the authors of the new DESIGN to CHANGE book Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen in a conversation with Anthony Vade, Director North America at the Event Design Collective 

Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen, creators of the #EventCanvas and founders of the Event Design Collective will be having a conversation on their views and experiences writing their new book "DESIGN to CHANGE - Elevating your Ability to Look & Act Beyond the Now" 

To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out www.designtochange.online

Ruud Janssen, Roel Frissen, Anthony Vade DESIGNtoCHANGE - ONSTAGE - at #WECvegas 2021 - PODcast

Welcome to the DESIGN to CHANGE podcast ONSTAGE - recorded live at #IMEXbuzzhub. 

An ONSTAGE conversation with Joël Letang - Senior Events Strategist   leading the Events Team at Wikimedia Foundation.

Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen will be having a conversation on his view as a designer on designing to change and how Joël  has experienced that in towards delivering the next Wikimania 2021 (it's 15th Edition of this event for which you can see the details here: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimania_2021 ) in Wikimedia's 20th Anniversary Year. 

Check out the Event Design work's outcome here as shared by the Steering Committee involved in the Event Design Project led by the Event Design Collective: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimania_2021/Event_design_process_narrative 



To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out www.designtochange.online

Joël Letang DESIGNtoCHANGE - Designer Series - ONSTAGE - Wikimedia - With Ruud + Roel

Ruud Janssen of the Event Design Collective is having a conversation with Pierre MacNeil on his views and experiences in using Event Design using the #EventCanvas with his team at CSL Behring Asia Pacific and how it relates with Pierre's experience as an event owner in his biopharmaceutical career.

Pierre MacNeil is Head, Commercial Excellence and Customer Engagement, Asia Pacific at CSL Behring based in Hong Kong. 

As a global healthcare executive with broad commercial experience including health policy shaping and market access he thrives while team-solving high stake, high pressure, complex business challenges. By leveraging data sciences and machine learning he drives effectiveness and efficiencies in customer engagement and day-to-day operations and processes. While leading high impact cross-cultural, cross-generational teams, Pierre infuses world-class P&L and compliance mindset. He is a passionate, engaging communicator. 

They discuss how to claim time to properly design an event to design for change in the biopharmaceutical corporate environment. 

To learn more about DESIGN to CHANGE check out www.designtochange.online

Pierre MacNeil - BACKSTAGE  - Designer Series - CSL Behring Asia Pacific On Claiming Time

Who deserves the best view of your event? 
That's the question we explore with Chanet Ham, CEM, UTS, CED+ and EDC MasterMind. 

Chanet is the owner of Xpedition Travel and Managing Partner at PX Event Group based in Penang, Malaysia and Australia. 

She has been creating and planning business events for corporate companies and high net-worth clients for the past 26 years. She is exploring her new role as Event Creator and Producer in the digital space.

In this episode she speaks with Ruud Janssen of the Event Design Collective on the topic of Horizons of Change, and the perspectives it requires to shift for her team, herself and her event owners. 

Discover the "Perspective Questions" here: https://designtochange.online/conversations/ 

Connect with Chanet Ham at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanet-ham-cem-uts-ced-ced-plus-coach-in-virtual-26637233/ 

find out more about #DESIGNtoCHANGE at https://www.designtochange.online

Chanet Ham #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONSTAGE - EDC MasterMind Series with Ruud Janssen

Michael Ackerbauer (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelackerbauer/) has been a transformational leader at IBM, in this  #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast #BACKstage with Ruud Janssen he speaks about his experiences in shifting IBM from an engineer thinking to a Design Thinking culture. Micheal is a change leadership thought partner. Learning innovator. Agile & innovation coach. He help leaders make the most of their agility, versatility & creativity. He also has a terrific podcast at : theprocessbeyond.com

He is an Organizational Consultant and Transformation leader at IBM. Over the last 20+ years Michael has coached executives and managers across a range of environments, including technology, finance, operations, human capital, sales & marketing. His work with organizations has provided employees the structure and freedom to be their best.

He is also a Change Management leader and thought partner helping leaders integrate strategy, structure, and culture to sustainably learn how to achieve exceptional performance.

In his roles at IBM, he is an Innovation Coach and facilitator. Working with 10 business units and hundreds of teams at IBM, he has launched, incubated, and coached teams to explore and capitalize on innovation opportunities to deliver value for our customers and business partners. 

But perhaps what he has become known for and aligned his thesis for his Doctorate degree around, is designing and delivering unique educational content combining Creative Problem Solving, Design Thinking, and Agile principles and practices. Teams he has trained get more impactful work done and have more fun doing it.

He shares his insights on applied innovation, constructive conflict, and change leadership at:

acklabs.org
theprocessbeyond.com
instagram.com/ack.labs/

Michael Ackerbauer (IBM) #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast #BACKstage With Ruud Janssen

#DESIGNtoCHANGE - Live PODcast recording with special guests onsite at #IMEX22 - Live from IMEX Frankfurt - An open conversation with the creators of #EventCanvas and their new book DESIGN to Change, elevating your ability to look and act beyond the now. Ask Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen, the authors questions to learn from their experiences helping over 500 Event Canvas practitioners elevate DESIGN conversations. Share your experiences and the challenges you face in designing for change. We grow in the direction of the questions we ask, so let's start the conversation at IMEX. 
Find out more at https://DESIGNtoCHANGE.online

Carla Sampaio Arruda (Makro Cash & Carry)with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #PODcast Onsite #IMEX22

In this episode, Carrie Hoppenjans and Sarah Ponsler speak with Roel Frissen of the Event Design Collective at the Event Design Certificate Level 3 Program at Purdue University in the Event Design LAB℠. 

Carrie Hoppenjans - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-hoppenjans-0922b12/  -  is the Senior Manager for Event Management at Wabash. She is responsible for the development and execution of an enterprise event marketing strategy encompassing corporate events, trade shows, NASCAR race experiences as well as senior-level meetings.
LinkedIn Login, Sign in

Sarah Ponsler - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-ponsler-676b3945/ 
  - Director, Talent and Organizational Effectiveness at Wabash is specialised in relationship building,  leadership development, team building, communication and continuous improvement 


Wabash (NYSE:WNC) is the visionary leader of engineered solutions for the transportation, logistics and distribution industries that is Changing How the World Reaches You®. Headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, the company enables customers to thrive by providing insight into tomorrow and delivering pragmatic solutions today to move everything from first to final mile. Wabash designs, manufactures, and services a diverse range of products, including: dry freight and refrigerated trailers, flatbed trailers, tank trailers, dry and refrigerated truck bodies, structural composite panels and products, trailer aerodynamic solutions, and specialty food-grade processing equipment. Learn more at https://www.onewabash.com  

Keen to learn more about becoming a CED - Certified Event Designer? Check out more at https://edco.global.ced 

Learn more about the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book at https://designtochange.online

Carrie Hoppenjans + Sarah Ponsler #DESIGNtoCHANGE w/Roel Frissen Event Design LAB℠ Purdue University

#DESIGNtoCHANGE - Live PODcast recording with special guests onsite at #IMEX24 - Live from IMEX Frankfurt - An open conversation with the creators of #EventCanvas and their new book DESIGN to Change, elevating your ability to look and act beyond the now. This onsite series features spontaneous conversations with #IMEX24 visitors, speakers, Event Design Enthusiasts and Certified Event Designers (CED'ers) as well as team members of the Event Design Collective with commentary by the authors Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen. Curious questions to learn from real life current event design experiences to help Event Canvas practitioners elevate DESIGN conversations. Share your experiences and the challenges you face in designing for change. We grow in the direction of the questions we ask, so let's start the conversation at IMEX.
Find out more at DESIGNtoCHANGE.online

Eleonora Lombriser Lufthansa Group + Pigalle Tavakkoli #DESIGNtoCHANGE at #IMEX24 w/ Ruud Janssen

David Stankiewicz - Senior Producer and Events Designer at IEEE - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dstankiewicz/ discusses with Ruud Janssen, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and its conferences, events, and experiences. David highlights the need for a whole system approach in event planning, involving all stakeholders, and the importance of bringing together local sections, chapters, industry, government, and other relevant groups. He also elaborates on the approach to event design of the new event IEEE CleanTech Tech Summit Series event de to take place in Glasgow, planned for October of 2025.
In this podcast they discuss and elaborate on themes including: 
Event Design for Enhanced Conference Interactions
IEEE Conferences, Events, and Stakeholder Engagement
Evolution of Scholarly Events and Experience Economy
Discussing Technology's Impact on Humanity and IEEE
Event Involvement and Innovations Committee Discussion
Building Strong Relationships and Effective Communication
Upcoming Event Planning and Reflections
Thinking Beyond Autopilot and Event Design
Event Design and Orchestrating Thinking
Celebrating Event Success and Future Collaboration

David Stankiewicz #DESIGNtoCHANGE Backstage #podcast with Ruud Janssen

1 year onward we meet again with Sunni Brown / Sun Kagami (www.linkedin.com/in/sunnibrown/) in this #DESIGNtoCHANGE conversation Year +1 with Ruud Janssen (www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/ ) .

Sun is a Catalytic Author of The Doodle Revolution (www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/312838…781591847038 , www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K5suHjo7d0 ) , Gamestorming and more to come) , Keynoter, TED speaker, Facilitator, Gamestormer, Zen Student and former Innovator-in-Residence at Mural for whom joy is one continuous mistake.

She has been named one of the 100 Most Creative People in Business and one of the 10 Most Creative People on Twitter by Fast Company. She is a consultant, an international speaker, the co-author of Gamestorming gamestorming.com , and the leader of a global campaign for visual literacy.

In this conversation with Ruud Janssen she explores concepts relating to Gamestorming, Facilitation, Visual language, Doodling, Graphic recording and Writing in relation to event design.

Watch this space for more upcoming features on Sun's groundbreaking work.

For more about #DESIGNtoCHANGE check out designtochange.online

Sunni Brown

Sunni Brown #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast Year +1 with Ruud Janssen

#DESIGNtoCHANGE - Live PODcast recording with special guests Wesley Benn, Chairman of the Digital Built Environment Institute (https://www.dbei.org) ( www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybenn/ ) with Ruud Janssen (www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/…inalSubdomain=ch ) in Year +1 since their first conversation at #IMEX24 in Frankfurt.

Check out the AI insights courtesy of SnapSight here:https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/b44355d0-738b-4cb0-8a57-060864c4dada/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways 

An open conversation with the creators of #EventCanvas and their new book DESIGN to Change, elevating your ability to look and act beyond the now. This series features spontaneous conversations with Event Owners, Event Design Enthusiasts and Certified Event Designers (CED'ers) as well as team members of the Event Design Collective with commentary by the authors Ruud Janssen. Curious questions to learn from real life current event design experiences to help Event Canvas practitioners elevate DESIGN conversations. Share your experiences and the challenges you face in designing for change. We grow in the direction of the questions we ask, so let's start the conversation at IMEX.
Find out more at DESIGNtoCHANGE.online

Wesley Benn with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast Year+1

Meet Sofya Abramchuk, Architect and multifaceted designer at the Gaudi World Foundation https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofyaabr/ in conversation with Ruud Janssen on this episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast. 

Sofya Abramchuk, a designer, creative director and founder, and event curator with over a decade of experience leading innovative projects at the intersection of architecture, culture, and transformation. She is the co-founder of the Originate Institute, a visionary spin‑off of the Gaudí World Foundation — where she spent eight years shaping Gaudí’s legacy before transitioning into her current role as advisor and collaborator.
 
Sofya has been deeply involved in curating and delivering international events including three editions of the Gaudí World Congress and a range of immersive challenges, workshops, and exhibitions. She now serves as a collaborator and advisor to the Foundation, and is currently working with AIM Group International on the upcoming Gaudí World Congress in Chile, which will be supporting the construction of the only Gaudí-designed building outside of Spain — the long-awaited Chapel in Rancagua.
 
Today, she’ll be giving a first glimpse into my new initiative: the Back to the Origins Summit, set to take place in Seoul in spring 2026 — the first event of its kind to unite thought leaders, creatives, and institutions around a shared mission: designing a future rooted in timeless wisdom and regenerative innovation.


Sofya Abramchuk #DESIGNtoCHANGE BACKStage PODcast Gaudi World Foundation with Ruud Janssen

According to Oscar winning Filmmaker Barnet Bain "we can all become weapons of mass creation". Since meeting at the College of Extraordinary Experiences Barnet and host Ruud Janssen 8 years ago, they have become friends as a result of an epic 3 hour bus ride conversation back to the airport in Berlin. This conversation was not left to chance and hear about his new film project based on the epic novel "Men are from Mars Women are from Venus" and his new book "How to be a friend in an unfriendly world". 

Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation amongst friends. 
More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online 

Barnet Bain  #DESIGNtoCHANGE BACKstage PODcast recording with Ruud Janssen

Barnet Bain  #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage PODcast recording with Ruud Janssen

Meet Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati Haji Lasuki J.P. , CEO of the Sabah International Convention Centre and event owner of the #BEinSABAH Business Event in Sabah (https://beinsabah.com.my) on this special episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage + BACKstage PODcast with Ruud Janssen.  

Explore what it takes to open a convention centre operating at the highest degree of competence in Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. From first meeting at #IMEX24 through a previous podcast guest Chanet Ham to running the EDC Level 3 Cohort 56 in Kota Kinabalu and exploring the #DESIGntoCHANGE concepts onstage at the #BEinSABAH event in February 2025, they discuss the special #AugmentedHumanity that Sabahans bring to event design.  

YBHG Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati Haji Lasuki J.P is the organising chairperson of BE in SABAH, MACEOS Sabah Chair and CEO of Sabah International Convention Centre. The 2nd International Business Forum – BE in SABAH was designed to empower and elevate Business Events across the Asia-Pacific region, leveraging the East ASEAN countries to unlock opportunities for growth and collaboration, ultimately driving economic development.

Check out the key takeaways and highlights in this AI powered recap courtesy of Snapsight - https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/34157377-a0ba-4f82-8812-32d56e274967/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways
Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation amongst friends. 
More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online

Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage PODcast with Ruud Janssen

Meet Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati Haji Lasuki J.P. , CEO of the Sabah International Convention Centre and event owner of the #BEinSABAH Business Event in Sabah (https://beinsabah.com.my) on this special episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage + BACKstage PODcast with Ruud Janssen.  

Explore what it takes to open a convention centre operating at the highest degree of competence in Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. From first meeting at #IMEX24 through a previous podcast guest Chanet Ham to running the EDC Level 3 Cohort 56 in Kota Kinabalu and exploring the #DESIGntoCHANGE concepts onstage at the #BEinSABAH event in February 2025, they discuss the special #AugmentedHumanity that Sabahans bring to event design.  

YBHG Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati Haji Lasuki J.P is the organising chairperson of BE in SABAH, MACEOS Sabah Chair and CEO of Sabah International Convention Centre. The 2nd International Business Forum – BE in SABAH was designed to empower and elevate Business Events across the Asia-Pacific region, leveraging the East ASEAN countries to unlock opportunities for growth and collaboration, ultimately driving economic development.

Check out the key takeaways and highlights in this AI powered recap courtesy of Snapsight - https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/34157377-a0ba-4f82-8812-32d56e274967/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation amongst friends. 
More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online

Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati #DESIGNtoCHANGE BACKstage PODcast with Ruud Janssen

Meet Audette Sophia in this new episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast with Ruud Janssen. Audette is the founder of Catalyst Arts, a production company in California that energizes events through creative entertainment & experience design. 
From elaborately costumed performers to interactive installations, they enhance ambiance & delight guests. Audette is also the creator of the X-Factor Method, a strategic design framework for crafting more unique & interactive brand experiences. You can connect to Audette on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/audettes/. 

Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation. . 
More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online 

Audette Sophia #DESIGNtoCHANGE BACKstage PODcast with Ruud Janssen

Meet Audette Sophia in this new episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast with Ruud Janssen. Audette is the founder of Catalyst Arts, a production company in California that energizes events through creative entertainment & experience design. 
From elaborately costumed performers to interactive installations, they enhance ambiance & delight guests. Audette is also the creator of the X-Factor Method, a strategic design framework for crafting more unique & interactive brand experiences. You can connect to Audette on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/audettes/. 

Based on the content of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book written by Roel Frissen, Ruud Janssen and Dennis Luijer we are guided through a fascinating conversation. . 
More episodes can de found at https://designtochange.online 


Audette Sophia #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage PODcast with Ruud Janssen

Nicola Kastner & David Kliman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kliman/) #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast episode Year +1 with Ruud Janssen https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/) . 
Get upto speed on what Ceo Nicola Kastner (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolakastner/ ) of ELX and co-founder of ELX have up their sleeve and how the past year has evolved the landscape for the corporate event executives. More resources for ELX can be found here:  https://www.eventleaders.com 

See the key takeaways, insights and summary courtesy of Snapsight here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/65fae535-382f-4117-90ec-c42a6948c675/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

To learn more about the #DESIGNtoCHANGE book by the team at the Event Design Collective see https://designtochange.online

Nicola Kastner & David Kliman #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast episode Year +1 with Ruud Janssen

Elizabeth Sage #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast Year +1 with Ruud Janssen

Philippe Clarinval https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarinval/ is a seasoned hospitality leader, Board Advisor, and keynote speaker passionate about service excellence, transformational leadership, and creating a positive impact. ​He knows what resonates when it comes to hospitalty as a catalyst of change. 

In this enlightening episode of the Design to Change podcast, host Ruud Janssen engages Philippe Clarinval in a profound exploration of his transformative journey through the hospitality industry.Philippe, whose illustrious career includes roles at the Grand Hotel, Swiss Deluxe Hotels board, Forbes Business Council, and Oxford Leadership, shares insights gained from his recent submission of a 224-page doctorate thesis to the University of Liverpool.
The conversation traverses Philippe's rich experiences, from managing the Omnia Hotel in Zermatt - renowned for its James Bond-esque entrance and #1 TripAdvisor ranking - to pivotal moments in a Kyoto ramen shop. These experiences shaped his understanding of omotenashi (Japanese deep hospitality) and redefined his service philosophy. A poignant anecdote about purchasing a Loop Wheeler garment illustrates the profound care in Japanese customer service, reminiscent of a 400-year-old company's enduring legacy.
Philippe's participation in the Kepler Academy program, with modules in Amsterdam, Kyoto, Freiburg and Basel, proved transformative. He draws fascinating parallels between Japanese hospitality and European design, contrasting Tadao Ando's nature-preserving approach at the Vitra campus with Frank Gehry's bold designs. The carbon-neutral Cartier Vauban area, originally a garrison designed by Napoleon's architect Vauban, exemplifies stakeholder alignment and corporate social responsibility in action.
Reflecting on his educational evolution from the 2005 Cornell program in Ithaca to recent immersive experiences, Philippe emphasizes the importance of being both inspiring and inspirable as a leader. He cautions against the "mount of stupid" in the Dunning-Kruger effect, advocating for an "eyes on, hands off" leadership approach that balances guidance with autonomy.
Personal growth emerges as a recurring theme, with Philippe's fiancée Silke noting when he "got his glow back." He employs a compelling Hermes tie metaphor to describe feeling constrained in his career, contrasting it with his current sense of liberation. This personal "Liberation Day,"  becomes a powerful metaphor for ongoing growth and freedom from constraints.
Throughout the podcast, Philippe touches on various tools and concepts, from the Business Model Canvas for sustainable practices to subtle LinkedIn "Easter eggs" hinting at his experiences. He views pride as his ultimate currency and contemplates life's phases of learning, earning, and returning.
As the conversation concludes at an experience in Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, where a touching piano player anecdote unfolded, Philippe hints at future aspirations to make a broader impact. His journey from the "mount of stupid" to a place of wisdom, and his transition from earning to returning, offer listeners valuable insights into personal and professional development in the hospitality industry and beyond. This Design to Change episode serves as a masterclass in leadership, personal growth, and the pursuit of excellence in hospitality. 

He is presently a Forbes Business Council member and advocate for the power of purpose-driven leadership; Philippe believes luxury is defined by passion, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to core values.​

See the key takeaways, idea cloud and summary courtesy of our AI partner Snapsight here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/5d6c8c86-b5b3-4fdc-82a1-a79d2b0ca181/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways 

Check out more episodes at https://designtochange.online

Philippe Clarinval #DESIGNtoCHANGE #PODcast with Ruud Janssen Year +1

In the latest #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast, host Ruud Janssen engaged in an illuminating conversation with Monique Ruff-Bell, TED's Chief Program and Strategy Officer, about the organization's evolution and future direction. Ruff-Bell shared insights on TED Next, a groundbreaking event in Atlanta that attracted 80% new attendees, aiming to match the impressive 55-60% retention rate of TED's Vancouver conference.
TED's ecosystem has expanded significantly, now encompassing 3,000 annual TEDx events, TED Ed for schools, and the Audacious Project, which raises nearly $1 billion yearly for global initiatives. New thematic events like TED AI and TED Sports, alongside the Countdown Climate Change conference in Nairobi, showcase TED's commitment to diverse and impactful programming.
Ruff-Bell highlighted TED's shift from "ideas worth spreading" to "ideas change everything," influencing event design and content curation. This philosophy is evident in TED Next's structure, which features 45 TED talks, Next stage content, and innovative networking through brain dates. The event's success is bolstered by a comprehensive first timers program and learning journeys that guide attendees through themes like leadership and creativity.
The podcast revealed Chris Anderson's transition plan after 25 years at TED's helm, including the organization's relocation from Vancouver to California post-2026. Ruff-Bell discussed the delicate balance of honoring tradition while embracing innovation, exemplified by the introduction of "buy now, pay later" options for TED Next to attract younger professionals.
TED Next's speaker lineup reflects this balance, featuring established names like Paul Tazewell, costume designer for "Wicked," and Dan Savage, renowned sex advice columnist, alongside emerging underground voices poised for breakthrough moments. This diverse roster underscores TED's commitment to showcasing a wide range of perspectives and ideas.
Ruff-Bell emphasized TED's role in fostering optimism and hope, particularly crucial in today's political climate. TED events are designed as sanctuaries where attendees can disconnect from chaos and rediscover hope, with experiences shared actively on LinkedIn to engage a broader audience.
As TED continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to creating an ecosystem of learning and inspiration. The organization'sadaptive approach, balancing the needs of long-time supporters with efforts to attract new audiences, ensures that TED remains at the forefront of spreading impactful ideas and driving positive change in an ever-changing world.
Speakers
Monique RuffBell - Chief Program & Strategy Officer - TED - https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniqueruffbell/
Ruud Janssen - Managing Partner / Founder - Event Design Collective - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/ 

Check out the Snapsight AI recap Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/60c6a5eb-0ad5-4bdd-8395-793fcc584d1e/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Monique Ruff-Bell TED #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast with Ruud Janssen Year +1

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast conversation series featured an insightful discussion with Amber Herrewijn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-herrewijn-48166112/ ) from NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in Leeuwarden, Netherlands. Hosted by Roel Frissen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/roelfrissen/)  in the Event Design LAB℠ onsite at #IMEX, the session explored innovations in the business events industry and event management education.
Amber, representing BeFuture, a Co-European funded project involving six countries including Spain, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, discussed efforts to drive sustainability and innovation in an industry largely unchanged for four decades. The project's acceleration program grants support initiatives like Konferli for sustainable associative conferences and InnoFest, which bridges the gap between festivals and business events.
NHL Stenden's master's program in International Leisure Tourism and Events Management, featuring a diverse cohort from seven nationalities, incorporates the Event Canvas methodology and the EDC Event Design Certificate Program. The curriculum adapts to industry changes, including AI's impact, focusing on developing tech-savvy, resilient professionals. Students like Judy from Taiwan gain practical experience at IMEX, engaging directly with industry leaders.
Amber highlighted the contrast between festivals and business events, noting how festivals create temporary cities that offer controlled environments for innovation and trial-and-error approaches. This comparison underscored the need for more experimentation in the business events sector, which often faces constraints due to client expectations and stakeholder pressures.
The conversation explored the shift towards a Human to Human (H2H) approach, moving beyond traditional B2B models. Amber addressed generational differences in networking, noting how the absence of cell phones in earlier generations fostered better social skills – a challenge for today's young professionals at events like IMEX and the Future Leadership Program.
NHL Standen's design-based research philosophy, where students tackle real industry challenges, was presented as a bridge between theory and practice. This approach provides value to both students and industry partners, preparing graduates for the evolving global events landscape.
The session concluded by emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation in event design and execution. From sustainability initiatives to creating meaningful human connections, the discussion highlighted the importance of adapting to changing industry demands to ensure the continued relevance and impact of business events in the future.
Speakers
Roel Frissen
Managing Partner / co-founder
Event Design Collective GmbH
Amber Herrewijn
Senior lecurer / Researcher
NHLStenden University, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands

A full overview of Key Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary can be found here courtesy of SnapSight in 70 languages :https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/8ed20a47-6702-4120-9f7b-7373448cf19c/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=takeaways

Amber Herrewijn with Roel Frissen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, Ruud Janssen hosted Kai Hattendorf, a business transformation specialist and former UFI CEO, for the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast in Hall 9. Fresh from visits to Sabah, East Malaysia, Hattendorf shared insights on the event industry's state of flux, drawing from his extensive background, including his time at Messe Frankfurt.
The conversation, which included perspectives from industry leaders like Reggie Agarwal of Cvent and IMEX CEO Carina Bauer, explored the concept of "accidental organizers." Hattendorf cited Web Summit and South by Southwest as prime examples of community-driven events that grew organically. He emphasized the trust inherent in event ownership and the industry's evolution, referencing the Event Canvas methodology and the Certified Trusted Advisor program.
Climate change emerged as a central theme, with Hattendorf drawing parallels between his COP conference experiences and the upcoming IEEE Convene event in Glasgow 2025. This case study, contrasted with previous IEEE events on topics like Photonics, exemplified how events can drive solutions to global challenges. Hattendorf's approach echoed the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy's emphasis on asking the right questions to find meaningful answers.
The podcast introduced the Event Design Competency diagnostic tool, addressing reasons for event failure. Hattendorf and Janssen discussed innovative research methods, including the "red velvet rope policy," and highlighted collaborations with organizations like SITE, MPI, and IAEE to deepen industry understanding. Hattendorf also touched on unexpected disruptions, from the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud to the COVID-19 pandemic, where UFI, AIPC, and others developed standards for converting venues into emergency facilities.
Artificial intelligence's impact on the industry was explored, with Hattendorf mentioning Snapsight, an AI-powered content tool developed by the "Gaffney gang." Despite technological advancements, he remained optimistic about the enduring need for human connection through events.
This comprehensive session offered valuable perspectives for professionals navigating the evolving event landscape. Hattendorf's insights emphasized the importance of adaptability, innovation, and the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interactions in an increasingly digital world, providing a roadmap for the future of events.

Check out the Snapsight Idea Cloud, Key Takeaways and Summary here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/63cf6bd0-8905-4711-9557-9c18983802ec/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=takeaways  

Kai Hattendorf with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

Judy Chang + Simon Eisenbauer + Arsh Mankotia with Roel Frissen #DESIGNtoCHANGE Live from #IMEX2025 

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, Judy Chang + Simon Eisenbauer + Arsh Mankotia appear live with Roel Frissen on the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast Live from #IMEX2025. As NHL Stenden Master's students in Leisure, Tourism, and Events to share their unique perspectives on the event industry. Judy Chang from Taiwan, Simon Eisenbauer from Austria, and Arsh Mankotia from India engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with the Event Design Collective, creators of the Event Canvas methodology.
The students, part of the Future Leadership Forum, offered fresh insights into the industry's dynamics. They observed the passion and confidence of seasoned professionals but highlighted the challenges newcomers face in penetrating established networks. This juxtaposition of enthusiasm and exclusivity painted a nuanced picture of the industry's culture.
Their diverse backgrounds fueled a rich conversation about career aspirations, ranging from launching innovative event management companies to spearheading sustainability-focused initiatives. The students emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in an ever-evolving field. They shared their experiences with the Event Canvas, taught by instructor Wilco, describing how it transformed their approach to event design from initial overwhelm to appreciating its value in structuring creativity.
Looking to the future, the students predicted significant shifts in the industry. They envisioned multifunctional events that seamlessly blend online connectivity with meaningful offline interactions, addressing the growing concern of digital disconnection. The potential impact of artificial intelligence, the increasing focus on sustainability, and the need for more inclusive, cross-cultural events emerged as key trends.
The session also touched on the perceived outdatedness of traditional event formats, with students advocating for innovative approaches. They discussed the integration of event apps and other technologies as crucial for enhancing attendee experiences and bridging generational gaps. The evolving skill set required in the industry was another focal point, with emphasis on the need for multi-talented professionals capable of navigating the diverse aspects of modern events.
As the conversation wrapped up, the students reflected on the passion that drives the event industry and their eagerness to contribute to its future. Their openness to working in various locations and taking on challenges that foster growth echoed the dynamic nature of the field. This session at IMEX Frankfurt not only provided valuable insights into the perspectives of emerging event professionals but also highlighted the industry's ongoing evolution and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
See the Key Takeaways, Idea Coud and Summary in 70 languages powered by Snapsight here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/24a2a0cd-ef7a-44de-9bda-9a11e1e159bd/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=ideacloud

Judy Chang + Simon Eisenbauer + Arsh Mankotia with Roel Frissen #DESIGNtoCHANGE Live from #IMEX2025

Lori Pugh + Mulemwa Moongwa with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

Meet Certified Event Designers Ana Maria Viscasillas - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amviscasillas/ and John McHugh https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mchugh-cmm-87367320/ in conversation with Ruud Janssen at live #IMEX25 in Frankfurt. 

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the global events industry's premier trade show, Ana Maria and John, two seasoned professionals, engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue about the industry's evolution and future. Ana Maria, former chair of the Events Industry Council (EIC) and architect behind the Puerto Rico Convention Center, shared her journey from the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show to leading Discover Puerto Rico. She introduced the Future Studies project by MMGY NextFactor, which informs Destination Next, a strategic roadmap reshaping global destinations.
John, an entrepreneur who transitioned from finance to events, emphasized the transformative power of certifications like Certified Meeting Management (CMM) and Certified Event Designer (CED). He unveiled Trident Experiential, his new venture focused on elevating business meetings, and drew insightful parallels between event planning and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
Both speakers championed the Event Canvas methodology, tracing its origins to the first CED cohort at San Diego State University, where David Kleiman's project for Puerto Rico showcased its potential. They highlighted the upcoming CED Cohort 58 in West Lafayette and a recent certificate program at the Marriott, featuring Marina Bay Sands' innovative event design lab.
The conversation touched on Design2Change, exploring how purposeful dialogues drive industry transformation. Reflecting on IMEX's evolution, Ana Maria reminisced about first presenting the Puerto Rico Convention Center at the event. They marveled at the current IMEX's vibrancy, from the anticipated gala at Alter Oper to the international exhibits in Hall 8, including Malaysia's aromatic spice market.
Echoing insights from Kai Hattendorf, they underscored the events industry's diplomatic role, noting that while conflicts may begin with hostilities, they often conclude in conference rooms. The speakers highlighted the industry's economic impact, citing EIC research of 1.6 trillion annual attendees and 27 million supported jobs globally.
As they concluded, Ana Maria and John looked ahead, envisioning how Destination Next and continued professional development will shape the industry's future. Their conversation at IMEX Frankfurt 2025 not only reaffirmed the enduring value of face-to-face meetings but also showcased the event's role as a crucible for innovation and connection in the ever-evolving world of global events.
Speakers
Ruud Janssen
Managing Partner - Founder
Event Design Collective GmbH
John McHugh
CEO + Owner
Trident Experiential
Ana Maria Viscasillas
Executive Consultant
MMGY NextFactor
See the key takeaways, idea cloud and summary in 70 languages here courtesy of Snapsight - https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/465726da-c554-49a5-b7bd-d51bba18d2f7/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=takeaways

Ana Maria Viscasillas MBA CDME DES CED + John Mc Hugh with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the #DESIGNtoCHANGE series PODcast conversation unfolded in Hall 9, featuring Chanet Ham, a Certified Event Designer (CED) from Penang, and Datuk Dr. Hajah Rosmawati, CEO of Sabah International Convention Center in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Onsite at IMEX 2025 hosts Ruud Janssen facilitated this session, which Snapsight AI analyzed for key takeaways.
The speakers recounted how their chance meeting at a previous IMEX led to the development of "BE in Sabah" and other transformative initiatives in Malaysia. Dr. Rosmawati introduced Sabah's unique "augmented humanity" concept, highlighting attractions like Sipadang's scuba diving and the Danum Valley's climate change studies. She explained how the convention center drives economic growth by leveraging the region's biodiversity for international conferences.
Chanet Ham shared her CED journey, including completing level 3 at the University of Amsterdam. She emphasized the Event Canvas methodology and the advanced Mastery program influenced by Paul Rulkens. The Event Design Certificate Model 3, supported by Malaysian Tourism Ministry grants, was discussed as a crucial capacity-building tool for the industry.
The conversation touched on AI's impact and the industry's adaptation to virtual events during the pandemic. Fred Schindler, IEEE VP of Technical Activities, was mentioned regarding plans for a climate change conference in Glasgow 2025, underscoring the growing focus on sustainability in events.
A spontaneous addition to the podcast was Louisa Go from Hot Dots agency in Kuala Lumpur, who expressed interest in CED training for her team. This unexpected participation demonstrated the organic networking opportunities at IMEX, which took place in a trade show area designed by fellow CED Tahira.
The speakers stressed the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with technological trends. They concluded by emphasizing the growth potential in emerging event destinations like Sabah and the critical role of certifications like CED in shaping the industry's future. Attendees were encouraged to actively seek connections that could lead to positive changes in their careers and the broader event landscape, reinforcing the session's theme of the transformative power of conversations in the ever-evolving world of events.
See the full Snapsight AI recap of the Key Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary in 70 languages here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/288eb286-411a-4c0e-b1fd-0e07233c17a2/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=takeaways

Chanet Ham CED+ Dr Datuk Hajah Rosmawati + Louisa Goh with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast hosted an illuminating session on May 20th, featuring adaptive adventurers Sabrina Schoenmaker and Jack Ryan. Nestled near the IMEX canyon in Hall 9, podcast host Ruud Janssen created an "audio bubble" amidst the bustling 16,000-attendee event at Frankfurt Messe.
Sabrina, a wheelchair user due to multiple sclerosis (Handy Fly NL), and Jack Ryan, visually impaired (Instagram: VI Adventurer), shared powerful insights during their "Travelers on Wildly inclusive" session. Introduced by CED'er and IMEX Curator Tahira Endean, they explored inclusive event planning and personal growth through adversity.
The speakers challenged the notion of "lowering the bar" for individuals with disabilities. Instead, they advocated for creative problem-solving and rapid prototyping of solutions. Sabrina poignantly stated, "Assumptions and beliefs of others are the biggest limitations in our lives." This sentiment echoed throughout their discussion on resilience and adaptability.
Jack emphasized the concept of "progress over perfection," likening the maintenance of adaptive skills to hunger - a constant need for practice and reinforcement. He advised, "The goal isn't to never panic, but for that time of panic to be as short as possible."
The conversation touched on practical tools for inclusive event design, including the Event Canvas and Design for ieee, which also address climate change challenges. Sabrina highlighted the need for extreme leadership in organizing challenging trips, drawing parallels to unpredictable changes in Switzerland's mountainous regions.
Interestingly, Sabrina reinterpreted the Dutch proverb "Kobler, stay at your last" (stick to what you're good at) as encouragement to persist in one's strengths despite challenges. This perspective resonated with their approach to overcoming obstacles and redefining possibilities.
Looking ahead, the speakers previewed their upcoming sessions "Belonging to All" and "Perspectives on empathy," promising deeper dives into stakeholder perspectives and inclusive practices. They encouraged ongoing dialogue through social media, extending the conversation beyond IMEX.
This session not only provided practical advice for event planners but also served as an inspiring example of how personal challenges can transform into valuable industry insights. The Design2Change series, available in various formats including an innovative augmented reality book experience, continues to push boundaries in accessibility and engagement.
As IMEX Frankfurt 2025 demonstrated, the future of events lies in embracing diversity, fostering inclusivity, and turning challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Speakers
Ruud Janssen
Managing Partner / Founder
Event Design Collective GmbH
Jack Ryan
Speaker adventurer, runner, cyclist, triathlete, skydiver
Speaker
Sabrina Schoenmakers
Chairman
Stichting Handifly NL

Find the Key Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary of this PODcast trabslated to 70+ languges enabled by SnapSight here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/459cdcdb-ca31-4667-b37e-9fe8bb503acf/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=takeaways 

Sabrina Schoenmaker + Jack Ryan with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the #DESIGNtoCHANGE #podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/ ) brought together industry veterans Kevin Hinton (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinhinton/) of US Travel Association and Miguel Neves ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguelseven/ ) from SKIFT Meetings. Both former MPI International Board members, they shared insights on the evolving landscape of events and travel.
Kevin Hinton discussed his recent presentation on US travel trends, addressing the new administration's impact and highlighting Rotary International's successful Chicago meeting. He also touched on personal changes, anticipating his "empty nester" status as his daughter prepares to attend the University of Denver.
Miguel Neves, once IMEX's social media pioneer, emphasized the value of backstage conversations over press conferences at large events. He shared experiences from his recent IMAX Forest session and outlined plans for the upcoming September Skift Meetings Forum, including innovative ideas like AI prompts with a World Cup style bracket for selection.
The conversation explored the Event Canvas tool and its application in designing impactful events, such as the IEEE climate change conference in Glasgow. This led to a discussion of previous PODcast guest Kai Hattendorf's involvement in COP conferences, underlining the events industry's role in addressing global issues.
Event sponsorship and financing challenges were a key topic, with Miguel noting the difficulty in balancing creative designs with sponsor expectations. The speakers debated the importance of meal moments in fostering connections, touching on intergenerational communication and the trend of culinary-first properties in hotels. Kevin shared insights from Chicago's The Gage restaurant, while Miguel offered perspectives from his life in Denmark.
The evolution of event design was a central theme, with discussions on adapting formats to audience preferences and incorporating innovative approaches like selfie points. Technology's role was highlighted, mentioning Cvent as a booking platform. The concept of "festivalization" was introduced, exploring the trend of combining high-ticket conferences with party-like atmospheres.
Throughout the session, the speakers emphasized the importance of intentional conversations and face-to-face interactions in the events industry, while acknowledging the need to adapt to changing trends. This insightful discussion provided a comprehensive look at current industry practices, personal experiences of leaders, and future trends shaping the landscape of meetings and conferences.
Speakers
Miguel Neves - Editor-in-Chief - Skift Meetings
Kevin Hinton - Managing Director Group Travel - US Travel Association
Ruud Janssen - Managing Partner / Founder - Event Design Collective GmbH

Find the full overview of Key Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary into over 70 languages powered by SnapSight AI available here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/a94b3580-5a6a-4d56-973a-6d1fbf998660/ad387ee1-521d-43ca-932c-64921fa6b1a5/attendee?tab=takeaways

Kevin Hinton, CAE, CED + Miguel Neves, CED with Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX25

Connect with Michael Ackerbauer PhD here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelackerbauer/ 
Connect with Ruud Janssen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/

And see there Key Takeaways, Idea Cloud and Summary (in 70+ languages) here courtesy by Snapsight : 
https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/ba005022-bc7b-42b6-bc5b-419c21f3833c/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Summary
In this captivating "Year plus three" episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast, Ruud Janssen engaged Michael Ackerbauer in a rich dialogue about change, technology, and personal growth. Michael, now at the helm of ACK Labs, a third-generation consultancy with roots in forensic chemistry, shared his journey from a 26-year IBM career to his current role as an innovation catalyst.

Ackerbauer's multifaceted background includes facilitating at the Creative Problem Solving Institute (CPSI) conference, teaching as adjunct instructor, and lecturing at Buffalo State University, which is launching a Doctorate of Professional Studies. His expertise in agile coaching and design thinking shaped his approach at IBM's client engineering, where he focused on "retiring quota" and showcasing generative AI like WatsonX.

The conversation delved into the "cone of uncertainty," creative abrasion, and continuous improvement. Michael emphasized the critical importance of trustworthiness and veracity in AI applications, drawing insightful parallels from the early days of "sneaker net" to current applications in insurance claims adjudication. He articulated a nuanced view of AI implementation, stressing the irreplaceable role of human oversight and emotion.

A highlight of the discussion was Michael's innovative rock balancing metaphor for leadership, which he demonstrated at Italy's Crea conference. This powerful analogy illustrates his triad of effectiveness, efficiency, and empowerment in team dynamics, complemented by his framework of capability, capacity, and commitment for assessing team performance.Ackerbauer's approach to change management acknowledges the often-overlooked aspect of grief associated with transitions. He cited the resilience of Blatten village after a natural disaster as an inspiring example of human adaptability in the face of drastic change.

The podcast touched on the evolution from centralized to decentralized computing, the rise of mobile and social computing, and the concept of "augmented humanity" in the AI era. Michael shared fascinating insights from using AI to analyze his own career trajectory and TEDx talk on rock balancing, hinting at exciting future book projects.

As the conversation concluded, both speakers reflected on the power of intentional dialogue in driving change, embodying the core principle of "Design to Change." The podcast's innovative use of AI-generated summaries in 70 languages served as a fitting demonstration of the transformative technologies discussed, bridging theory and practice in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and human interaction.

See the link to the Rock Balancing article mentioned here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/principles-balance-michael-ackerbauer-phd/

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