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In the first episode of Season 16 Karen and Jack chat to the rather fabulous Adrienne Fitzgerald. An energetic, focussed, determined Strategic Account Manager for CORT Events. With a degree in fabrics, listen in and experience her journey from fashion to furniture.

In her current role, Adrienne’s responsibilities include managing the Midwest territory, Exhibit House programming, General Contractor partnerships and Large Corporate events for Gartner, Service NOW and TwitchCON. Her role is all about building and understanding client relationships, and developing lasting partnerships.

Adrienne has been in the event industry for over 20+ years, prior to joining CORT in 2017 she was managing major Golf industry events and working directly with the USGA and PGA of America.

Adrienne strongly believes in the value of networking - if you invest in these relationships, you will have a strong dependable community. She is on the Board of Women in Experiential and Midwest Chapter of IAEE. She also supports the EDPA Midwest and Upper Midwest Chapters.

Adrienne is an avid snow skier, learned to wake surf when she turned 50 and is a cardio junkie working out 5 days a week.

Adrienne currently lives in Chicago, IL.

See more about our Season Sponsor – Electric Cat

https://www.electriccat.co/

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Church House Westminster

https://churchhouseconf.co.uk/

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the The Lewis Foundation

https://www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk/

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/

Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/track/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

Another season already? How can that be?

Season 15 of The Events Insight Podcast has been another truly fantastic and inspiring journey, with guests from every corner of the events spectrum.

For this special wrap-up episode, Jack and Karen are joined by two brilliant industry professionals, and loyal listeners Kirsty Goddard and James Molkie, who bring their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the conversation.

Kirsty has over 20 years’ experience in marketing, comms, and events, and is renowned for helping businesses uncover their true goals and communicate their unique personality.

James is a Creative & Design Director who uses design thinking to solve complex business problems and craft meaningful experiences.

Together, they dive deep into Season 15, reflecting on our six incredible guests, sharing their biggest takeaways, and highlighting the insights that resonated most. Expect inspiration, behind-the-scenes reflections, and maybe even a few surprises as we close the chapter on another fantastic season.

Tune in now for a lively discussion and a final look back before we step into Season 16!

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

In this episode, Jack and Karen catch up with Sarah Bennett, a California-born event professional whose career has come full circle, back to where it all began: with the Anaheim Ducks.

From her first internship with the hockey club to leading event strategy across the sports, tech, entertainment, and non-profit sectors, Sarah has spent over 15 years mastering the art of delivering unforgettable experiences. Her journey includes roles with the San Diego Padres, the Olympic Water Polo Team, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Spectrum Enterprise.

Now Senior Manager of Signature Events and Projects for the Anaheim Ducks, Sarah reflects on what it means to “do the impossible” in events and how a positive mindset, patience, and strong planning can make almost anything happen.

With a philosophy rooted in collaboration and creativity, Sarah proves that no matter the sector, the magic lies in the details.

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

This week, Jack and Karen speak with Ivan Mariacher, Managing Director of TROJAN SECURITY, a leader who has built his career on protecting people, spaces, and experiences.

Ivan’s journey began at the frontline of London’s most high-risk venues back in 2004, where he tackled gang-related violence, drug issues, and public safety challenges head-on. Today, he leads a professional team delivering everything from crowd management to close protection at major events and venues, including the iconic Troxy and the London Stadium.

With qualifications in IOSH Managing Crowd Safely and years of high-pressure response coordination, Ivan shares why safety is never an afterthought and how the best security work often goes unnoticed.

Expect a behind-the-scenes look into the real-world pressures of live event security and the mindset it takes to keep everyone safe.

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

In this episode, Jack and Karen chat with Richard Smith, a passionate events professional whose journey started with a defining moment on a balcony overlooking Hall 3 at Birmingham’s ICC.

Now Chief Commercial Officer at Wyboston Lakes Resort, Richard leads the commercial strategy across a diverse 400-acre site, driving growth across training venues, conference spaces, and serviced offices. With past roles at Compass Group, Yarnfield Park, and nearly a decade at the NEC Group, Richard brings a deep understanding of what makes venues , and people thrive.

He shares insights on leadership, venue strategy, and why creating momentum (for yourself and others) is the key to long-term success in this fast-paced industry.

From quiet moments of clarity to boardroom decision-making, Richard’s story is one of purpose, progress, and people-first thinking.

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

This week, Jack and Karen welcome Sarah Slater, a true force in the live entertainment industry and a champion of saying yes to unexpected opportunities.

Now leading the Music & Festivals division at Ticketmaster UK, Sarah’s career has taken her from production management in outreach programmes to senior roles in ticketing and e-commerce. With over 15 years of experience, she’s built a reputation for trusted leadership, strategic growth, and solid relationships with some of the UK’s biggest promoters and event organisers.

Sarah shares her winding journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why she swears by the mantra: “Always make sure you’re doing a good job — you never know who’s watching!”

If you’re looking for inspiration, career insights, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story from the world of live events, this one’s for you.

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

In this episode, Jack and Karen are joined by Matt Turner, founder of Clownfish Events and self-declared Head of Team Flourishment, for an energising conversation about culture, creativity, and what it takes to build a workplace people actually love.

From launching a DJ business at 18 with a shed full of kit and his dad’s Toyota Previa, to winning The Sunday Times Best Place to Work 2025, Matt shares how Clownfish has grown into a standout name in the corporate events space.

But success here isn’t just about the events. It’s about people. Matt’s focus on employee wellbeing, bold leadership, and doing things with heart (and fun!) has set a new benchmark for the industry, and he’s just getting started.

Expect inspiration, laughs, and a reminder that happiness and high performance aren’t mutually exclusive.

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL

Send a text

In this season opener, Jack and Karen sit down with the ever-inspiring PJ Ellis, a proud Brummie, seasoned charity campaigner, and passionate community advocate.

PJ shares the story behind launching the Harry Moseley Charity Ball, co-founding LoveBrum, and raising nearly £1 million for causes close to his heart. From tackling homelessness to mentoring start-ups, PJ’s journey proves how purpose-led projects can leave a lasting legacy.

Now a BBC Radio WM presenter and founder of the men's mental health initiative Mommy's Boy, PJ opens up about the personal experiences driving his mission, and how events have played a central role in bringing people together for good.

Whether you're in the events world or just love a good story with heart, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what it means to make an impact.

Keep a track of all that's going on with the Podcast via;

www.theeventsinsight.com/
www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-insight-podcast/
www.instagram.com/the_eventsin/

See more about our Season Sponsor NEC Birmingham via;

https://www.thenec.co.uk

Find out more about our Shoutout Sponsor Wavecast via;

https://wavecast.io

Our Season Quickfire round Sponsor is the Charity Mommy's Boy ;

https://mommysboy.co.uk

Our partnership with Standout Magazine is also worth following;

https://standoutmagazine.co.uk/



Music Credits go to;

Artist: Cathrine Rannus
Title: The Events Insight Theme Music

Music from #Uppbeat:
Forever - Sega Williams
https://uppbeat.io/t/sega-williams/forever
License code: 7F5KY293FYDFNVEV

https://uppbeat.io/t/moire/summer

License code: WNFODRXZ1ITXJS3H

Fly Away - Mountaineer
https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/fly-away
License code: EKN0IYNUKGUXMCTW

Clarity - Zoo
https://uppbeat.io/t/zoo/clarity
License code: GL25RXVDXIBQWSWL