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

The #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen, DES, CMM , brought together IMEX leaders Carina Bauer , Suzanne Medcalf Mulligan , and Sophie Pink to explore the transformative power of conversations in the events industry and the strategies behind IMEX's success. IMEX Frankfurt  was celebrated as a global networking hub where serendipitous connections often lead to impactful collaborations, such as Marina Bay Sands ' partnership with the Event Design Collective, which has resulted in global event design training initiatives. 

See the full newsletter + video here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/carina-bauer-suzanne-mulligan-sophie-pink-team-imex-srlxe/?trackingId=9wKUU6etWZyk3xza1d%2B68w%3D%3D 

The IMEX team, a small yet dynamic group based in Brighton, orchestrates large-scale events like IMEX America, which hosts 85,000 meetings, 15,873 participants, and 3,500 exhibitors. Among the highlights of IMEX America is the Circadian Cove activation, designed to align activities with attendees' circadian rhythms for a more personalized experience. 

Social media plays a pivotal role in amplifying IMEX's impact, with LinkedIn driving business engagement, Instagram spiking during events, and the #IMEX25 hashtag fostering community interaction. First-timer tips were shared to help attendees navigate the extensive schedule and make the most of their experience.

Carina Bauer unveiled IMEX's ambitious 2030 strategy, emphasizing AI integration to enhance attendee experiences and streamline operations. The Event Design Collective's climate change sessions were also spotlighted, reflecting IMEX's commitment to innovation and sustainability. 

As the team gears up for IMEX America, they encouraged attendees to plan their schedules thoughtfully and engage with the vibrant IMEX community online and on-site. This session underscored IMEX's dedication to fostering meaningful connections, driving business outcomes, and shaping the future of the events industry.

Speakers

Carina Bauer IMEX Group (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carina-bauer17/ ) 

Sophie Pink Digital & Social Media Manager IMEX Group (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-pink-73747010b/)

Suzanne Medcalf Mulligan Head of Engagement IMEX Group (https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-medcalf-mulligan/) 

Ruud Janssen, DES, CMM Managing Partner / Founder Event Design Collective GmbH (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruudwjanssen/ )

Carina Bauer, Suzanne Mulligan, Sophie Pink Team IMEX #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast with Ruud Janssen

In this #DESIGntoCHANGE #PODcast Year +1 Episode, Sharifa Wilkinson M.Ed, CED - Mega Events & Event Management Teaching Professor and Program Lead - FIU - Florida International University shares with podcast host Ruud Janssen her journey on the #HORIZONSofCHANGE a year onward. 

Snapsight Key Takeaways & Idea Cloud & Summary = https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/79791165-0d19-41f7-87ff-6af2c3a9f3cc/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways 

Snapsight AI Summary https://www.snapsight.com/live-channel/79791165-0d19-41f7-87ff-6af2c3a9f3cc/e1be71ca-a1cb-4f34-8ecd-1d9e0efd487e/attendee?tab=takeaways  

Summary
The #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen, featured Sharifa Wilkinson, a teaching professor at Florida International University (FIU) specializing in mega events and event management. Sharifa shared her journey from being a high-performance soccer player to becoming an academic leader, highlighting her transition into teaching and research. Her doctoral studies focus on the relationship between micro and small businesses and mega events, particularly the FIFA World Cup 2026, exploring their expectations and readiness for large-scale opportunities.   The session celebrated Sharifa’s mentorship and her efforts to connect students with industry opportunities. She recounted her students’ participation in the Super Bowl teammates program, where they gained hands-on experience in event operations, and the South Beach Wine and Food Festival pitch competition, where empathy maps were used to design experiences for younger audiences. Sharifa’s commitment to fostering the next generation of event professionals extends to hosting recruitment events for FIU hospitality students, preparing them for competitive roles in mega events like FIFA.   Sharifa’s academic contributions include integrating the Event Canvas methodology into her teaching, a globally recognized tool for event design. She reflected on cohort 53 of the Event Design Certificate program, where participants designed the Olympic opening ceremony and explored stakeholder mapping exercises. The unveiling of the Bill Hansen Catering and Events Lab at FIU further exemplifies her dedication to practical learning. This innovative space features mood board walls, floor planning magnets, and lighting setups, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios.   Sharifa’s personal pursuits, such as her newfound passion for tennis, demonstrate her commitment to continuous growth and exploration. Her upcoming participation in IMEX America includes speaking sessions and visits to booth F416, where the Event Design Collective will showcase case studies and methodologies. Sharifa emphasized the importance of proactive networking, encouraging students to connect with industry leaders and seize opportunities to build meaningful relationships.   Through her academic, professional, and personal endeavors, Sharifa exemplifies the transformative power of intentionality and mentorship in shaping the future of the event industry. The conversation underscored her vision for creating a pipeline that enables students to transition seamlessly into the workforce, contributing to the social legacy of mega events. Sharifa’s inspiring journey and dedication to education and mentorship continue to leave a lasting impact on her students and the broader event design community.

Sharifa Wilkinson - FIU #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast Year +1 with Ruud Janssen

Meet Saamer Mansoor ( linkedin.com/in/saamer ) who from building a Deaf Aware App is now revolutionising the way meeting Transcription and Translation Apps can work without the Internet connectivity on device and nearly no latency. Conference Captioning (https://conferencecaptioning.com  ) is ADA-compliant live transcription and instant translations powered by On-Device AI — so your audience never misses a word.  PODcast hosts Roel Frissen and Ruud Janssen explore this development in this latest episode of the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast ONstage and BACKstage more at https://designtochange.online  

The #DESIGNtoCHANGE podcast, hosted by Ruud Janssen and Roel Frissen, featured Saamer Mansoor, founder of BeAware Deaf Assistant, sharing his inspiring journey of innovation. Born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Texas, Saamer studied mechanical engineering at the University of Texas before transitioning to coding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he developed the Deaf Assistant app to address communication barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community caused by mask-wearing. The app transforms smartphones into alerting devices using LED flashes and smartwatch vibrations, gaining global recognition, including features on Y Combinator's Hacker News and Apple’s platform. It is widely used in the Netherlands, Germany, and the United States.

Saamer’s participation in IMEX America, a major event with 17,000 attendees, was transformative. During Smart Monday and the Event Design Certificate (EDC) Level 1 workshop at Marina Bay Sands, he engaged with event designers from over 15 countries, recognizing the need for inclusive event design. Inspired by feedback from George Washington University professors, he expanded the app’s capabilities to include conference captioning. This feature uses on-device AI for real-time captioning and translation in over 25 languages, ensuring ADA compliance with over 95% accuracy and contextual understanding. Unlike competitors, Saamer’s solution eliminates internet dependency, offering unmatched speed and reliability, even for silent seminars.

The session explored accessibility challenges in events, citing CES 2024’s accessibility competition, which lacked basic accommodations. Saamer also shared insights from the PCMA conference in Rotterdam, where the Sign Language Coffee Bar sparked conversations about communication barriers. He emphasized the importance of relationships in the events industry, noting competitors’ aggressive sales tactics, including exclusive multi-year deals.

Saamer’s open-source business model, with code available on GitHub, empowers the deaf community without ads or subscription fees. Revenue is generated through partnerships with organizations serving this community. Looking ahead, Saamer plans to expand his sales team, enhance networking features for classrooms and events, and continue innovating. The podcast concluded with an invitation for Saamer to return next year to reflect on his progress and share updates, while also highlighting the Event Canvas’s 30,000 users and its role in fostering inclusive event design worldwide.

New tracks tagged #IMEX