Fred Schindler of IEEE & Ruud Janssen of Event Design Collective ONStage #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast recording

Quick recap
Ruud and Fred discussed the importance of conversation and serendipity in driving change, at "IEEE Convene" and the upcoming conference focused on climate change and sustainability in 2025 for IEEE. They also explored the complexities of event design, the intersection between art and design, and the recent ideas generated from their "idea quarantine" session. Lastly, they discussed the structure of their respective organizations, the challenges of event planning, and the concept of event failure.

Summary
Discussing Change, Conversation, and Serendipity  Ruud and Fred discussed the importance of conversation in driving change, with Ruud introducing Fred as a specialist in engineering management and RF/microwave design. Fred elaborated on his role at IEEE, a global professional technical organization with over 400,000 members, and its history dating back to the 19th century. Ruud then asked Fred about the potential for serendipity to lead to significant changes, to which Fred responded positively, highlighting the value of unexpected discoveries. Ruud suggested that their recent conversation was an example of orchestrated serendipity.  Planning IEEE Convene Conference  Fred and Ruud discuss the upcoming "IEEE Convene" conference focused on designing a new event related to climate change and sustainability. The goal is to provide a platform for people to share ideas and advance technology for environmental benefit, aligning with IEEE's mission. Ruud explains the large scale of previous conferences like the International Microwave Symposium with 10,000 attendees. Fred notes IEEE supports both scholarly events driven by research communities and produced events they deliberately organize. For the new event, they will bring together diverse stakeholders across IEEE to address the technical dimensions of climate change and develop relevant technologies.  Event Design, Stakeholder Alignment, and Creativity  Ruud and Fred discussed the complexities and advantages of event design. They agreed on the importance of embracing ambiguity to foster originality and creativity. They also reviewed a recent stakeholder alignment exercise, which aimed to identify key stakeholders and their expectations, pains, gains, and design goals. Fred shared his experience of being overwhelmed by the diverse perspectives but found the exercise energizing. Ruud highlighted the value of the team's collective brainpower and the plan to refine the narratives and validate them with actual stakeholders. Lastly, Fred shared his recent experience of attending a conference with a Nobel laureate, highlighting the differences in design and engagement compared to his usual events.

Fred Schindler - IEEE + Ruud Janssen #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage Podcast

It’s an unusual circumstance for the President of the Association for Continuing Higher Education (ACHE) (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ache-continuing-ed/posts/?feedView=all ) to not only be the event owner, but also a skilled event designer. Discover how Patti Spaniola, CED+ and ACHE President (https://www.linkedin.com/in/patti-spaniola-cmp-ced/) turned over the design of the 86th Annual ACHE International Conference to Bryan Best, CED (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brobest/) and Sherry Blok (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-blok-m-a-a0a14286/ ) to create a joyful, collaborative and educational conference that participants were truly inspired to be a part of. Not only did Sherry and Bryan design and execute a meaningful event that stayed true to Patti’s desired behavior changes, they empowered their team of volunteers to create a magical experience that was perfect in every way. When the event owner says she wouldn’t change one single detail, that is bona fide success!

Join us as we share the goodness of the Association for Continuing Higher Education’s 86th Annual Conference held in Palm Springs, CA on October 14-16, 2024.  https://www.acheinc.org/events/ache-2024-annual-conference 
check out the mentioned reels at https://www.instagram.com/acheinc

This #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast with Ruud Janssen was recorded on 11 November 2024 and a unique opportunity to hear from the event owner and event design team how that collaborations works in tandem when both master the Event Design using the #EventCanvas Methodology and speak a common language. For more podcast episodes and the DESIGN to CHANGE book check out the link on https://designtochange.online 

Sherry Blok + Patti Spaniola + Bryan Best #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONStage PODcast with Ruud Janssen

AI in Event Design Conversations
Ruud Janssen and Fred Werner discussed their shared history, including attending the International School of Manila and their current roles in event design and technology. They explored the impact of AI on events, with Werner sharing his experience of managing the AI for Good event, which has grown significantly in popularity. Werner highlighted the challenges of dealing with high demand and managing the success of such events. Ruud explained the format of the Design to Change podcast, which features conversations with event designers and owners about embracing change and looking beyond the present. They agreed to start recording the podcast, with Ruud introducing Werner and posing a question about the power of conversation to drive change.
ITU's AI for Good Evolution
Fred discussed the evolution of AI for Good initiatives since 2017, highlighting how the ITU transformed its approach during the pandemic to create an online platform with 55,000 members from 180 countries. He explained how ITU's unique public-private model, involving over 1,000 private members and academic institutions, enables them to convene diverse stakeholders and collaborate with other UN agencies on initiatives like AI for Health, natural disaster management, and food security. The discussion also covered how ITU's adaptability, demonstrated through their rapid response to COVID-19 and subsequent venue changes, has contributed to the growing success of their AI for Good events.
Check out the  ⁨@Snapsightai⁩  takeaways here: https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/6c676312-1808-4c69-b624-af6e24576bd1/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways

Fred Werner - ITU #DESIGNtoCHANGE BACKstage #PODcast with Ruud Janssen

Fred Werner - Chief Engagement Officer at ITU - United Nations https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredericwerner/ in conversation with Host Ruud Janssen 
AI in Event Design Conversations
Ruud and Werner discussed their shared history, including attending the International School of Manila and their current roles in event design and technology. They explored the impact of AI on events, with Werner sharing his experience of managing the AI for Good event, which has grown significantly in popularity. Werner highlighted the challenges of dealing with high demand and managing the success of such events. Ruud explained the format of the Design to Change podcast, which features conversations with event designers and owners about embracing change and looking beyond the present. They agreed to start recording the podcast, with Ruud introducing Werner and posing a question about the power of conversation to drive change.
ITU's AI for Good Evolution
Fred discussed the evolution of AI for Good initiatives since 2017, highlighting how the ITU transformed its approach during the pandemic to create an online platform with 55,000 members from 180 countries. He explained how ITU's unique public-private model, involving over 1,000 private members and academic institutions, enables them to convene diverse stakeholders and collaborate with other UN agencies on initiatives like AI for Health, natural disaster management, and food security. The discussion also covered how ITU's adaptability, demonstrated through their rapid response to COVID-19 and subsequent venue changes, has contributed to the growing success of their AI for Good events.

Fred Werner - ITU #DESIGNtoCHANGE ONstage #PODcast with Ruud Janssen

In this episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, Ruud Janssen and Fred Schindler reflected on the inaugural IEEE Clean Tech and Climate Change conference, held in Glasgow in October, which attracted 200 attendees from IEEE’s global membership of over half a million. Fred, the event owner, shared insights into organizing this cross-disciplinary event, designed to embody IEEE’s motto, “Advancing technology for humanity,” by fostering collaboration across technical communities and breaking silos. The opening reception at Glasgow City Chambers featured Bailey Annette Christie reading a poem that emphasized the importance of the next generation, a theme that resonated deeply with Fred, who symbolically referenced his grandson in the closing remarks. The conference’s structure included two days of sessions, panels, and pitch competitions, with the ideation and startup tracks emerging as highlights. Judges faced a tough decision in the startup track, naming two runners-up alongside the winner, showcasing innovative solutions that energized participants. A notable panel on aviation sustainability sparked discussions about clean energy in air travel, while the overlapping EGRID conference in Glasgow presented logistical challenges and collaboration opportunities. Fred acknowledged the difficulties of hybrid event formats, citing technical issues with a remote speaker as a lesson learned. He credited David Stankiewicz and Crystal Edwards for their pivotal roles in program development and event logistics. The discussion emphasized the importance of aligning event destinations with themes, such as Glasgow’s sustainability mission and COP26 legacy, and looked ahead to COP30 in Belem, Brazil. Fred concluded by reflecting on the need for IEEE to enhance its relevance and influence in advancing technology for the benefit of humanity and future generations, underscoring the urgency of addressing global challenges through innovation and collaboration.

Fred Schindler IEEE #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast Year + 1.5 with Ruud Janssen

In the #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast hosted by Ruud Janssen, Drew Holmgreen, CEO of PPAI, shared his journey from Chief Experience Officer at MPI to leading the 120-year-old association representing the branded merchandise industry. Drew reflected on his transition, emphasizing the importance of impactful conversations in driving change and fostering creativity within the industry.

Drew recounted his first days at PPAI, including the PPAI Expo at Mandalay Bay, a flagship event with 16,000 attendees and net promoter scores of 60 for suppliers and 63 for distributors. The Expo serves as a vital connection point for the association's 15,000 member companies, showcasing innovative branded merchandise and fostering collaboration among suppliers, distributors, and business service providers.

Drawing on his MPI experience, Drew shared lessons from hosting the WEC event during COVID-19, which successfully blended in-person and virtual elements. He highlighted the importance of balancing financial sustainability with delivering exceptional experiences, a principle he applies at PPAI.

The discussion explored branded merchandise's role as a marketing channel, with Drew advocating for its inclusion in campaigns to create lasting emotional connections. He cited examples like Stella Artois' innovative merchandise and Promenade's sustainability efforts, emphasizing the industry's creativity. Branded merch, he noted, offers high ROI and longevity, with items like T-shirts having an average lifespan of seven years.

Drew addressed challenges facing the industry, including tariffs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions, which impact costs and sourcing. He highlighted PPAI's advocacy efforts and the launch of a new learning management system to support members. The association is also exploring AI's potential to enhance efficiency and innovation.

Looking ahead, Drew outlined his vision for PPAI, focusing on fostering a positive staff culture, enhancing member engagement, and repositioning branded merchandise as a vital marketing tool. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations like MPI, AMA, and international associations to unify messaging and drive industry growth.

The session concluded with Drew's optimism for the future, highlighting the importance of creativity, resilience, and strategic planning in navigating challenges and advancing the branded merchandise industry.

Check out the full article and @SnapSight analysis here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/drew-holmgreen-ppai-designtochange-podcast-year-beode/?trackingId=m%2BGUCZONzL7FtWrqQCfSBg%3D%3D

New tracks tagged #Event Owner