The Event Pro Show

On this episode of The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi talks with Aundrea Hopkins, a marketing and events professional known for her work in social media, public relations, and community engagement. Aundrea reflects on her early exposure to events and how those moments shaped her path into hospitality and the rental industry now working for Party Reflections. The conversation follows her approach to building meaningful relationships, supporting new professionals, and staying current with emerging rental trends such as inventive tent designs and more personalized decor. The episode offers clear guidance and thoughtful stories that speak to anyone focused...

On this episode of The Event Pro Show, Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, addresses one of the biggest time pressures planners face: sending out an AV RFP quickly without losing clarity or quality. If time is tight and you need vendors to respond with accurate proposals, this episode shows you how to stay efficient and still get strong results.

Seth explains the core details that belong in an AV RFP for straightforward events and shares practical recommendations that make the process easier. He highlights the value of providing run dates, venue information, room layouts, expectations for each...

Welcome to this episode of The Event Pro Show, where we explore the behind-the-scenes world of corporate event production. Today, host Seth Macchi sits down with Brian McGuigan, a production manager, technician, and social media creator with a fascinating journey that began in finance and accounting before leading him into the fast-paced world of event tech.

Brian shares how his passion for photography and videography unexpectedly launched his career in event production, beginning with small gigs like weddings and local concerts and eventually growing into managing high-stakes corporate and political events. We look at the challenges, the...

Welcome to this episode of The Event Pro Show! Today, Seth Macchi tackles one of the most common and misunderstood questions in corporate events: Do you need a music license for a private company gathering? As the CEO of an event production company, he offers a clear explanation of the difference between music used in a personal setting and music played for an audience at work. He also addresses misconceptions about services like Spotify and discusses when a public performance license becomes necessary. This episode is designed to help anyone involved in planning or managing events understand how to...

On this episode of The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi and guest Mark Mallchok take listeners behind the scenes of corporate event production, tracing Mark's path from childhood performances in Hawaii to founding Brella Productions and leading large-scale projects for major brands.

Mark reflects on his creative journey and explains how storytelling and collaboration shape powerful event experiences. He also shares how his team at Brella continues to push boundaries with hybrid meetings, immersive video content, and global campaigns that connect audiences in new ways. The conversation explores how technology and audience expectations continue to evolve...

Creating memorable corporate events takes more than logistics; it requires supporting the people on stage. In this episode of The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, explores the often-overlooked journey of keynote speakers and presenters. Drawing from personal experiences and industry knowledge, Seth highlights the crucial role AV teams play in helping presenters feel comfortable and confident. From the value of rehearsals to the benefits of green rooms, downstage monitors, and foldback speakers, this conversation offers practical guidance for planners aiming to elevate stage presence. You'll come away with strategies that help presenters feel supported and...

Welcome to another inspiring edition of The Event Pro Show! This week, host Seth Macchi is joined by Erin Dennis, founder of Evergreen Hospitality Solutions and a true trailblazer in corporate events and hospitality. She brings decades of experience across catering, sales, marketing, and leadership, along with a career filled with recognition, and shares what she has learned about building teams, mentoring rising talent, and shaping the future of the industry.

Erin reflects on her early experiences in events, the challenges and rewards of guiding the next generation, and her belief that strong relationships and genuine connections...

Have you ever been asked to plan a major corporate event even though it's not part of your regular responsibilities? If that sounds familiar, you're not alone—and this episode is designed with you in mind. The Event Pro Show, hosted by Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG in Charlotte, NC, takes you inside the realities of corporate event planning when it isn't your full-time role. Seth explores why bringing in specialized partners such as fractional heads of events, strategic event consultants, and technical planners can make all the difference, protect your sanity, and help deliver a successful outcome. He al...

Today on The Event Pro Show, we're joined by the one and only Larry Long Jr., CEO (that's Chief Energy Officer) of LLJR Enterprises, whose life mission is all about motivation, inspiration, and, most importantly, transformation. Host Seth Macchi takes us through Larry's journey from his earliest event memory to his accidental but triumphant rise as a globally recognized professional speaker and coach.

Larry reveals how his background in sports, sales, and even a failed business venture shaped his approach to leadership and speaking. From launching a speaking career at the very start of the pandemic to...

Your go-to resource for anything corporate events is back! In this installment of The Event Pro Show, Seth Macchi- CEO of LEMG, a leading event production company- concludes his five-part series, "The AV Advantage."

Curious about the quiet, black-shirted crew working behind the curtain? Seth takes you through the entire AV team, from load-in crews and project managers to audio engineers and stage managers, spotlighting how each role contributes to flawless execution. You'll also hear why rehearsals matter, what seamless collaboration looks like, and how stronger partnerships with your AV provider can raise the bar on your...

Welcome to The Event Pro Show, your go-to resource for expert tips, industry insights, and inspiring stories from the world of corporate events. Seth Macchi sits down with Andrea Doyle, an award-winning journalist and Executive Editor at Skift Meetings, who brings several years of experience covering the meetings, events, and trade show industry.

Andrea shares her fascinating journey from her early days as a storyteller, inspired by her police officer dad and a love for travel, to becoming one of the most recognized voices in event journalism. Together, Seth and Andrea discuss everything from the challenges facing...

This episode of The Event Pro Show features host Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, an event production company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. He continues in part four of our ongoing series on getting the most from your AV in corporate events. Now that you've secured your AV partner and signed the contract, what comes next? Seth breaks down the crucial steps: from understanding your initial deposit invoice to meeting your AV project manager, covering kickoff calls, and unpacking the project management that keeps everything on track.

He shares key questions planners often overlook, tips for ideal...

Join our conversation on The Event Pro Show with host Seth Macchi and the inspiring Preeya Patel, powerhouse producer and founder of PreeProduction Events. With over 14 years shaping unforgettable productions for brands like Xbox, Disney, Red Bull, and the LA Lakers, Preeya brings both creativity and precision to every project.

She opens up about her journey, from growing up surrounded by vibrant South Asian festivals produced by her family, to leading large-scale branded activations today. Preeya shares valuable lessons on crafting moments that resonate, translating bold visions into reality, and why every detail matters, from spatial planning...

Thanks for joining us on The Event Pro Show! Host Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, continues part three of our special five-part AV Advantage series, focusing on how to write clearer AV RFPs so you finally get proposals that fit your needs. We've all experienced the frustration of sorting through proposals that don't line up, making it tough to compare "apples to apples". In this conversation, Seth shares practical strategies from an AV professional's perspective to help you define baseline requirements, separate must-haves from nice-to-haves, and provide the right details so your proposals are both realistic and comparable. Whether...

In this episode of The Event Pro Show, Seth Macchi chats with Rachel Whitten, Vice President of Sales and Services for the Greenville-Pitt County Convention and Visitors Bureau in North Carolina. With twenty five years in management, sales, marketing, and event planning, Rachel brings both expertise and an infectious energy to the conversation.

She shares her journey from organizing family holiday parties as a child to managing large-scale gatherings and partnerships that shape her community's tourism industry. Rachel explores the advantages of hosting functions in mid-sized markets, the invaluable support CVBs provide to planners, and the unique...

Welcome back to The Event Pro Show, your podcast for everything corporate events! Host Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, continues part two of the five-part "AV Advantage" series. If you've ever wondered how to secure better pricing, top-tier technicians, and seamless execution from your AV production partners, this conversation is for you.

Seth shares practical strategies to help planners maximize their AV budgets without compromising creativity or quality. You'll discover why early collaboration with your AV partner ensures access to the best gear and talent, and how smart planning can help you avoid costly mistakes and last-minute...

Back on The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi sits down with Mitch Savoie Hill. Mitch is a dynamic first-generation Cuban American, CEO, TEDx speaker, published author, and corporate trainer with three decades of leadership experience.

She takes us through her journey from an awe-struck child at her first big concert to a sought-after speaker and leadership coach, sharing actionable strategies for planners and aspiring presenters. From energizing a crowd and thinking on your feet, to selecting the right speaker and tackling imposter syndrome, her stories and advice offer tremendous value for professionals at every stage.

Join us on The Event Pro Show as host, Seth Macchi, launches a five-part series called "The AV Advantage." Today's focus is on why involving your AV partner early in the creative process sparks better brainstorming, reduces rework, and streamlines the RFP stage. Seth compares event planning to an assembly line, where identifying challenges upfront saves time and money. He shares practical strategies for collaborating with AV providers from day one, including questions to expect during discovery calls and how to clearly convey your event's needs. Seth encourages our listeners to gain knowledge on maximizing AV budgets and laying...

Get ready for another edition of The Event Pro Show, your go-to podcast exploring the world of corporate gatherings. This time, host Seth Macchi chats with Michael Collins, a Kansas City native and co-founder of Bluefox Production. Michael's roots in music, theater, and audio have shaped a thriving AV company known for innovation and impact.

Michael shares how early gigs sparked a lifelong passion, what it takes to grow a production business in a constantly shifting industry, and why mentoring the next generation of talent matters more than ever. He also reflects on the REM concert that...

Welcome to The Event Pro Show, your trusted resource for corporate planning done right. In this episode, host Seth Macchi, CEO of Charlotte-based event production company LEMG and president-elect of MPI Carolinas, tackles one of the most common mistakes in the planning process: waiting too long to bring AV experts to the table. Drawing from years of collaboration with planners across the country, Seth explains how early coordination with your AV partner can lead to smarter solutions, tighter budgets, and fewer surprises on show day.

This episode also kicks off a special five-part series called "The AV...

This episode of The Event Pro Show features host Seth Macchi in conversation with Tracy Stuckrath, founder and president of Thrive Meetings and host of the Eating at a Meeting podcast. With over three decades in the field and more than 300 podcast episodes to her name, Tracy leads the charge in creating food and beverage experiences that prioritize safety, inclusion, and sustainability.

Tracy shares how growing up as a "Marine brat" shaped her ability to connect with others, how her own food allergies ignited a passion for accessible hospitality, and why every menu decision matters. From behind-the-scenes...

Thanks for tuning in! I'm Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, a Charlotte-based event production company. Today, we're pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to bring a corporate event to life from the AV side of things. Ever curious about how everything runs so smoothly on show day? I'm walking you through the critical role of a project manager inside an AV company. Think vendor coordination, tech planning, and making sure the right gear and crew are exactly where they need to be. If you're an event planner hoping to boost efficiency or simply curious about the...

Welcome back! In this episode, host Seth Macchi chats with Christa Hovis, a force in event planning, design, and production. From a background in industrial engineering to becoming an independent consultant, Christa shares how her creative foundation shaped her approach to large-scale corporate and luxury galas. The conversation explores how creativity and process engineering go hand in hand, what it's like to teach future event professionals, and how new tech, including AI, is reshaping event execution. Christa also talks through strategies for managing risk, building standout experiences, and collaborating with a wide range of client personalities. No matter where...

Welcome back! In this conversation, host Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, shares key takeaways from WEC 2025, the World Education Conference hosted by Meeting Professionals International in St. Louis. He reflects on the importance of staying curious in the events industry, building strong partnerships instead of going it alone, and prioritizing wellness for those working behind the scenes. Seth also highlights the fresh energy brought by emerging talent, the value of mentorship, and why there's still plenty of reason to feel optimistic about where the industry is headed. Expect useful guidance, fresh perspective, and a look at what's next for...

Welcome back to The Event Pro Show- your trusted podcast for all things corporate events, experiential marketing, and the creative craftsmanship that brings gatherings to life. This week, host Seth Macchi chats with the dynamic Rah-mah Pelzer-Elue: a Nigerian American entrepreneur, award-winning poet, playwright, spoken word performer, and fierce advocate for creativity and small business growth.

From her formative years at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts to performing at the Kennedy Center and the US Black Caucus, Rah-mah's story is both powerful and uplifting. She shares how her artistic background paved the way for a...

On this episode of The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi, tackles a common question in the world of corporate events: "It's just AV… does it really matter who we use?" With budgets tighter than ever and teams stretched thin, Seth shares hard-won insights on why choosing the right AV partner is about so much more than just picking the cheapest option. Reflecting on the challenges event planners face, especially after the shake-ups of the past few years, Seth discusses the pitfalls of applying lean manufacturing principles to live events. He also speaks on the vital role of expertise an...

You're listening to The Event Pro Show! Host Seth Macchi sits down with Ricardo Hicks, a veteran audio visual executive with more than 20 years in the field, to explore the world of AV, event production, and mentorship. Ricardo's career began in a major recording studio and grew through roles as a recording engineer, hotel manager, business developer, and trusted guide for others in the AV space.

Seth and Ricardo share early memories of large-scale productions, discuss how church and community events shaped their professional paths, and trace Ricardo's journey to founding his successful AV company, Tech Factory...

The Event Pro Show is your trusted source for everything corporate events. In this edition, host Seth Macchi, CEO of LEMG, tackles one of the biggest challenges event professionals face: building a clear, effective AV Request For Proposal (RFP). Whether you're new to planning or have years of experience, Seth outlines the crucial details and questions that help AV vendors provide accurate, tailored proposals. From locking in basics like event dates and venue specs to outlining must-have technical needs and optional enhancements, this conversation is filled with practical tips and real examples. If you're looking to eliminate confusion and...

On this episode of The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi sits down with one of his production favorites, Julie Leithoff. With nearly 30 years of experience in live events and an impressive track record managing audiovisual components for corporate gatherings nationwide, Julie has seen and solved it all. From her beginnings at Vista Productions in Kansas City to her years of freelance work, Julie shares how her unique ability to bridge the worlds of event planning and AV brings every project to life and keeps budgets on track. Together, Seth and Julie dive into her early memories that sparked...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of The Event Pro Show! Host Seth Macchi, CEO of Charlotte-based AV production company LEMG, gets to the heart of how to stretch your event budget by using one of your most powerful tools: time. Seth breaks down practical steps corporate event planners can take to secure essential AV elements early, helping you lock in top-tier technicians, the right gear, and more predictable costs. He discusses the importance of clearly outlining your must-haves from the start and building strong communication with your AV team from the beginning. These moves can prevent last-minute...

Get ready for an episode packed with stories and advice from the world of corporate events! On this episode of The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi sits down with Brandon Crumpton, owner of Key Signature Entertainment—a company responsible for booking and producing live music for more than 750 events each year. Brandon shares his journey from an awe-struck kid at an MC Hammer concert to becoming a top resource for live entertainment at corporate events.

Whether you're an event planner, a producer, or someone curious about integrating live music into your next event, you'll hea...

On today's episode on The Event Pro Show, host Seth Macchi discusses turning live events into virtual experiences—a topic that's top of mind in uncertain economic times and beyond. Whether you're an experienced planner looking for a quick refresher, or you've never organized a virtual event before, this episode breaks down the different levels of virtual production, from simple Zoom-style meetings to multi-location broadcasts and fully interactive, platform-driven conventions. Seth explains the key differences between production and platform, the potential of hybrid events, and why having the right production partner is crucial for success. If you're ready to ex...

Welcome to The Event Pro Show, your go-to resource for all things corporate events, experiential marketing, and live event production. In this episode, host Seth Macchi sits down with Wendy Porter, founder and chief event strategist of Wendy Porter Events, to discuss the evolving world of corporate events. Wendy brings over 23 years of industry experience, including a pivotal role as head of events at a Fortune 25 company, and recognition as one of the 100 most influential people in the US events industry.

In their conversation, Seth and Wendy explore Wendy's unique journey from her early memories o...

Welcome to another episode of The Event Pro Show—the ultimate guide for corporate event professionals seeking to elevate their experiences! In this episode, host Seth Macchi dives into a timely topic: why so many events end up being, well, a little bit boring—and how you can break the mold. Drawing on years of experience in AV and event production, Seth shares a fresh perspective on collaboration, highlighting the value of bringing your AV and production partners into the creative process earlier.

He offers practical strategies for building stronger, year-round relationships with your partners so you can...

In this episode of The Event Pro Show, we welcome Lauren Ansley, a professional speaker, corporate emcee, and presentation skills trainer who brings a unique twist to the world of corporate events with her background in stand-up comedy. Join us as Lauren shares insights into making events memorable through interactive enhancements, the role of humor in creating engaging experiences, and how comedy has influenced her approach in the corporate sector. Discover the value of taking creative risks, involving audiences, and the power of connecting people through laughter. Whether you're looking to reinvigorate a stale event or simply w...

In this episode of The Event Pro Show, our host Seth Macchi dives into the world of in-house AV for corporate events and the circumstances in which an external AV provider might be a better fit. Seth shares insights into determining when you've outgrown in-house AV services, offering a framework of questions to guide your decision-making process. Are you seeking more brand alignment, consistency, and creativity in your event design? Seth explains how partnering with an outside AV provider can elevate your event experience, providing stability and creativity beyond the transactional nature of in-house offerings. Whether you're managing multiple...

Welcome to The Event Pro Show, where today, our host Seth Macchi engages in an insightful conversation with Joy Harley, a senior project manager at LEMG. Joy shares her expertise on building successful relationships with event planners, emphasizing the importance of understanding their unique needs and goals for each event. Throughout the episode, Joy reveals her approach to creating meaningful and memorable event experiences by focusing on content as the core around which everything else revolves. Whether you're an event planner or part of an AV production team, this episode offers valuable tips and perspectives on how to transform...

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Event Pro Show, where we take a closer look at the skills that help event service businesses thrive. Today, our host Seth Macchi is unpacking the five essential components that are pivotal for growth and success in the corporate events world. Whether you're a small business owner or part of a leadership team, Seth covers the crucial roles of sales and marketing, operations, project management, logistics, and finance, and why each is integral to your business strategy. Plus, Seth shares a bonus skill set - the importance of building a network of...

Hey Event Pros, in our latest episode, we dive into how to deliver on promises and consistently impress your clients. Remember, it's not just about reacting to challenges; it's about being proactive with structured processes. Great event pros utilize pre-production checklists, set effective communication sequences, and plan their work timelines to prevent burnout. Craft a brand that clients trust with these strategies, and see your success and reputation grow. Keep tuned for more insights and expert stories—join us on The Event Pro Show!

The Event Pro Show is a production of LEMG. 

LEMG...

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Event Pro Show with your host, Seth Macchi, the CEO of LEMG. Dive into the world of corporate events with me as we explore the wealth of knowledge and insights from leaders who've made a significant impact on my industry and career.

This podcast is designed for anyone involved in creating corporate events, from event planners and marketing professionals to AV technicians and business owners. We'll cover everything from event budgeting and technology transformation to navigating emergencies and hybrid events. Join us as we talk to the experts who are...

Welcome back to The Event Pro Show, your trusted resource for navigating the world of corporate events. In this episode, we're excited to have Lauren Livesay, Director of Operations at LEMG, joining our host, Seth Macchi. With experience ranging from NASCAR to the performing arts, Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

In this conversation, she'll share her insights on staying adaptable and consistent in an industry where plans can shift quickly. You'll hear about her journey, from a pivotal high school moment to managing complex, fast-paced productions. She also emphasizes the value of recaps...

Welcome to The Event Pro Show! Today, we're joined by Deanna Griffith-House, an experienced professional in event strategy. With a background in large-scale corporate productions, she's here with host Seth Macchi to share insights into global trade shows and the MICE industry—aka meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (because who doesn't love a good acronym?).

We'll be exploring what elevates an event from good to truly memorable, offering practical strategies for planning successful gatherings. Whether you're in the corporate event space or just interested in the industry, this conversation has something for you. Sit back, tune in, an...