In this episode of BEATS WORKING — Winning the Game of Events, hosts Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren welcome Kelli Bielema — a powerhouse event producer with 25+ years of creative expertise across mega festivals, brand activations, and employee experiences at Meta. Kelli shares her secrets for creative ideation, resiliency in the face of chaos, and building unforgettable events both big and small. Plus: behind-the-scenes stories from Coachella, EDC, running her karaoke Airstream lounge, and working with celebrity talent at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Timestamps:

[00:00] – Meet Kelli Bielema

[03:29] – Kelli’s creative event planning process & storyboarding

[08:39] – Memorable moments producing Red Bull activations at EDC

[15:56] – Coming down after high-energy events: recovery rituals

[17:09] – Best and worst event swag

[20:14] – Launching The AirScream: mobile karaoke in an Airstream

[28:13] – Big-budget events, scrappy solutions & working at Meta

[32:27] – Celebrity encounters & Universal Studios stories

[37:38] – What’s next: NY-themed events, symposiums & animal rescue

[41:13] – Event trends & tech: crafting, VR, and AI for event production

[46:09] – AI tools & creative brainstorming for events

Resources & Links:

-Kelli Bielema: LinkedIn & Instagram

-The AirScream: Website & Instagram

-Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses

-BW Swag Episode: Event Swag and Strategy Insights with Karianne Michelle

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

-Facebook: @Beats Working Show

-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

Follow & Subscribe:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Send Feedback:

If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

SHOW SUMMARY:

Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where event lovers (and planners) Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.

Dive into the world of corporate event logistics with CJ Gonzalez. Discover her travel must-haves, learn about pulling off huge events without losing your cool, and get her take on why saying "no" can sometimes be the best answer. This fun and insight-filled episode is packed with CJ's stories from the road, insights on teamwork and adaptability, and her unique 137% dedication.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - CJ's travel essentials

[01:10] - CJ's role and experience in corporate events

[03:21] - The importance of time in logistics

[05:09] - Saying a thoughtful "no" to clients

[09:05] - Managing large-scale events

[10:34] - Staying calm under pressure

[14:57] - Travel essentials for event professionals

[19:09] - Post-event reflections and improvements

[20:24] - Importance of relationship building in the events industry

[21:29] - Challenges and triumphs: Sao Paulo customs clearance

[24:52] - Understanding 137% dedication

Resources & Links:

-CJ Gonzalez: LinkedIn

-CJ's travel accessory recommendations: Theragun Mini, Mobot foam roller water bottle

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

-Facebook: @Beats Working Show

-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

Follow & Subscribe:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Send Feedback:

If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

Get ready for some runway drama as hosts Libby Sundgren and Alysse Bryson chat with Alexandra Nyman from the Break Free Foundation. From backstage shoe-throwing to promoting diversity on the catwalk, Alexandra dishes on how she turns chaos into meaningful Fashion Week events. Discover what it takes to blend fashion with purpose, highlighting mental health and addiction recovery, all while keeping your cool. It's a behind-the-scenes peek you won't want to miss!

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Welcome to BEATS WORKING

[00:58] - Backstage chaos: The shoe incident

[02:01] - Fashion Week event production: Alexandra's process

[06:46] - Memorable backstage challenges

[11:28] - Lessons learned in event planning

[17:56] - Diversity and inclusion in fashion

[23:39] - Break Free Foundation's impact beyond the runway

[25:29] - Surviving and thriving in event production

[26:42] - Practicing self-care post-event

[28:55] - How to connect with Alexandra and support the Break Free Foundation

Resources & Links:

-Alexandra Nyman: LinkedIn & Instagram

-Break Free Foundation: Website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X

-The Sober Curator: Recovery Resources

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

Join us at The Fun Table in this lively episode of BEATS WORKING - Winning the Game of Events! Hosts Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren sit down with Kristin Graham, Dele Downs Kooley, and Amy Liz Harrison for some good laughs and event-planning wisdom. They dive into Priya Parker’s "The Art of Gathering," sharing insights on throwing successful parties and making meaningful connections. With personal stories, fabulous tips, and a dash of humor, this episode is a must-listen for anyone planning an event, big or small.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Shopping anecdote & meet the Fun Table

[02:08] - Concept of the Fun Table and its significance in events

[04:17] - Introduction of guests and their event experiences

[10:54] - Discussion on the book "The Art of Gathering" by Priya Parker

[22:25] - Thoughts on creating a bold opening for events

[30:03] - Ideas for engaging guests at events

[36:18] - Rating and final thoughts on "The Art of Gathering"

[42:47] - Kate Spade bags and closing remarks

Resources & Links:

-Book: "The Art of Gathering"

-Learning & Games: Goosechase and Kahoot!

-Meet The Fun Table: Kristin Graham, Dele Downs Kooley, Amy Liz Harrison

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

-Facebook: @Beats Working Show

-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

Follow & Subscribe:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Send Feedback:

If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

SHOW SUMMARY:

Welcome to BEATS WORKING: Winning the Game of Events, where event lovers (and planners) Alysse Bryson and Libby Sundgren uncover the magic of creating meaningful experiences. From global conferences to local gatherings, we share stories and strategies to turn any event—or life moment—into something unforgettable. Packed with humor, resilience, and a little event-planner grit, this podcast proves there are no small events, only small invoices. Join us as we explore why getting paid to practice truly beats working to get paid.

Drew Dambreville is the COO of the Seattle Seawolves Rugby Club and co-founder of the Seattle Polo Party and Seattle All-Star Classic. Drew shares his expertise in crowd engagement, revenue growth in spectator sports, and how to create unforgettable event experiences. From the planning process of the Seattle Polo Party's 10th year to his tactics for enhancing fan experiences at rugby games, Drew offers insights into the dynamic world of sports events and highlights the importance of listening to attendees to continually improve events.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction: Alysse's fear of landing in a horse pie and a surprising polo field fact

[00:59] Meet Drew Dambreville, Seattle event expert

[03:03] Creating the Seattle Polo Party

[05:28] Keeping events fresh & engaging - even after a decade

[07:51] Crowd engagement strategies

[10:01] Metrics for event success (hint: think green)

[12:22] Post-pandemic event dynamics

[14:08] Secrets to handling event day chaos

[16:30] Memorable event moments & miracles

[19:36] Strategic post-event planning and ensuring future success

Resources & Links:

-Drew Dambreville: LinkedIn

-Seattle Polo Party

-Seattle All-Star Classic: Website and Instagram

-Seawolves Rugby

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

-Facebook: @Beats Working Show

-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

Follow & Subscribe:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Send Feedback:

If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.

Carrie Nicole May—a nurse practitioner and founder of Chicago AF—shares her journey of organizing alcohol-free events and retreats, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and shared experiences without the need for alcohol. From her iconic "No Booze Cruise" to her exciting plans for 2025 events, Carrie provides insights into creating spaces where everyone feels included and engaged.

Timestamps:

[03:25] - Chicago AF's origin and the transformative role of sobriety

[10:14] - The "No Booze Cruise" and gaining event momentum

[17:24] - Creating engaging activities at sober events

[23:02] - Supporting sober allies and creating inclusive events

[30:12] - Lessons from event hosting and volunteer coordination

[36:34] - Carrie's personal milestones and future plans

Resources & Links:

-Carrie Nicole May: LinkedIn

-Brave Recovery Coaching: Website and Instagram

-Chicago AF: Website and Instagram

-Alysse & Libby: Bios & LinkedIn

Connect with Us:

-Website: www.beatsworkingpodcast.com

-LinkedIn: @BEATS WORKING Show

-Instagram: @beatsworkingshow

-Facebook: @Beats Working Show

-YouTube: @BEATSWORKINGPODCAST

Follow & Subscribe:

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Send Feedback:

If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email producer Tamar Routly at tamar@workp2p.com.

BEATS WORKING is a platform on a mission to redeem work—the word, the place, and the way. We believe that work is the most honorable act in the universe, and through inspiring stories and practical insights, we want to transform the way people think about work and help them discover greater fulfillment in their lives. We invite you to join us as we build community through sharing and actively demonstrating what we learn.