Episodes

  • 185: Six Yrs Anni | Events Demystified One Mic: My Origin Story Unplugged
    Jul 4 2025

    In this very special 6th anniversary episode of the Events Demystified Podcast, the host reflects on the journey from the podcast's inception to the current milestone.


    This July 2025 episode marks a departure from the usual and features readings from the host's forthcoming memoir. The memoir shares deeply personal and formative experiences, focusing on themes of resilience, family dynamics, and personal growth.

    The host also takes a moment to acknowledge and thank previous guests and listeners who have contributed to the show's success. This episode serves as a prelude to a month-long miniseries dedicated to sharing the host's personal story and journey in the events industry.


    👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge.00:00 Welcome to the 6th Anniversary Special!02:08 A New Direction: Sharing My Memoir05:44 Season Recap and Special Thanks10:15 The Oak Tree's Shadow: Chapter One31:56 Reflections on Resilience and Transformation42:32 Looking Ahead: California Dreams43:39 Closing Remarks and Future Plans👉 Episode Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/👉 Subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this.--------------------------------------------------------------Sponsored and Produced by Tree-Fan Events Production LLC.

    Discover the future of events: https://ancaplatontrifan.me/booking-page/

    Let's change the way we plan, produce, and experience events together!--------------------------------------------------------------Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:Book Anca to Speak at Your Event: https://ancaplatontrifan.me/booking-page/LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anca.platon.trifan/Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/--------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠--------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠“Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events Productions LLC⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS™ framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.--------------------------------------------------------------👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry!---------------------------------------------------------------✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching:👉 5th Yrs Anni: https://youtu.be/FkTaENHLk24👉 4th Yrs Anni: https://youtu.be/nJN2nS2-iCM👉 3rd Yrs Anni: https://youtu.be/pL-T4UNUqsI👉 2nd Yrs Anni: https://youtube.com/live/eLD2V9yOkcs---------------------------------------------------------------Thank you for being a part of this journey. I hope you enjoyed this episode and it helped you, please subscribe to this channel, like, comment, and share the video.

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    45 mins
  • 184: Crafting Unforgettable Experiences: Experiential Marketing and Event AI ft Steven Burchard
    Jun 27 2025

    Welcome to the ⁠Events Demystified Podcast⁠, hosted by ⁠Anca Platon Trifan, CMP, WMEP⁠. In this episode we welcome dynamic entrepreneur and experiential marketing expert Steven Burchard , as we demystify creating unforgettable, engaging content and event strategies that resonate with audiences. Stephen shares his journey from a magician to a nationwide brand builder, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and innovative thinking. The conversation covers the role of storytelling, the impact of brain breaks for attendee engagement, and the transformative power of technology and AI in crafting hyper-personalized event experiences. A must-listen for event professionals, small business owners, and entrepreneurs aiming to elevate their event planning and audience engagement strategies.


    👉 Episode Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/

    👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this.

    👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge.


    • 00:00 Introduction to Experiential Marketing
    • 01:53 Meet the Expert: Stephen Bouchard
    • 03:52 Stephen's Memorable Event Highlights
    • 05:46 Stephen's Entrepreneurial Journey
    • 11:50 Adapting to Change: The Pandemic Pivot
    • 14:11 Engagement Strategies for Virtual Events
    • 20:02 The Importance of Movement and Wellness
    • 27:49 Creating Unforgettable Experiences
    • 35:53 The Power of Emotional Connection in Events
    • 36:25 Storytelling in Event Design
    • 36:46 Magic and Storytelling: A Unique Approach
    • 38:26 Understanding Client Goals for Event Success
    • 40:30 Budget Constraints and Creative Solutions
    • 50:58 The Role of Technology in Events
    • 51:35 AI in Event Personalization
    • 58:13 Hyper-Personalization: The Future of Events
    • 01:08:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


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    Sponsored and Produced by Tree-Fan Events LLC.Discover the future of events: https://ai.treefanevents.comLet's change the way we plan, produce, and experience events together!

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    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    Book Anca to Speak at Your Event: https://ancaplatontrifan.me/

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/

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    Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠

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    “Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

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    👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry!

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • 183: Mastering Event Contracts and Negotiation ft Brittney Shea Cobb
    Jun 20 2025

    Join host Anca Platon Trifan on the Events Demystified Podcast as she delves into the art of powerful event planning contracts and negotiation tips with Brittney Cobb, Director of Global Events with Innovate Meetings and Managing Director at Assemble Hospitality.

    👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge.With over two decades of experience spanning hotels, casinos, and large-scale live events, Brittney shares expert insights on navigating the ever-shifting event industry, crafting impactful experiences, and staying strategic despite rising costs. From practical contract advice to innovative retreat concepts, this episode is a treasure trove of valuable information for event professionals. Subscribe for more grounded conversations that empower and inform!00:00 Introduction to Events Demystified Podcast02:21 Meet Brittney Cobb: Hospitality Pro and Taco Enthusiast08:14 Brittney's Journey in Hospitality10:27 Wedding Tales and Event Planning Insights16:31 Current Event Industry Challenges and Strategies26:59 Negotiation Tips and AI in Event Planning37:00 Outrageous Coffee Prices and Consumption-Based Pricing37:28 Hotel Concessions and Client Needs43:01 Negotiation Strategies for Meeting Room Fees49:16 The Rise of Micro Events and Retreats57:08 The Importance of Valuing Small Meetings01:03:43 Advice for Event Industry Professionals01:08:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts👉 Episode Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this.


    --------------------------------------------------------------

    Sponsored and Produced by Tree-Fan Events LLC.Discover the future of events: https://ai.treefanevents.comLet's change the way we plan, produce, and experience events together!

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    Book Anca to Speak at Your Event: https://ancaplatontrifan.me/

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/

    --------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠

    --------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠

    “Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry!

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • 182: The Truth About AI Agents & Large Language Models: Insights ft. Vlad Iliescu
    Jun 13 2025

    In this episode of Events Demystified Podcast, host Anca Platon Trifan provides a deep dive into the world of AI agents, large language models, and practical applications for businesses. Featuring guest Vlad Iliescu, CTO of zenai.os and a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional in AI, the discussion covers how to build AI systems that support team goals, the step-by-step implementation of AI agents, the importance of strategy and process in AI adoption, and the real ROI of AI in businesses. The episode also includes a live demonstration and practical insights on safe AI development, making it a must-watch for leaders looking to integrate AI responsibly into their operations.


    👉 Episode Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/

    👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this.

    👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge.


    00:00 Introduction to AI Agents and Their Impact

    02:33 Meet the Expert: Vlad Iliescu

    03:43 Sci-Fi Inspirations in AI Development

    07:22 The Journey into Machine Learning

    12:56 Real-World Applications and Challenges of AI

    25:48 Understanding AI Agents and Their Capabilities

    34:37 Building an AI Agent: A Practical DEMO Example

    37:55 Setting the Stage: Tools and Technologies

    38:23 Integrating OpenAI with Microsoft Azure

    39:24 Using Hugging Face for AI Models

    40:08 Building and Testing AI Agents

    44:30 Exploring GitHub Copilot

    47:58 Safety and Best Practices in AI Development

    53:18 Practical AI Applications and Learning

    01:01:13 AI in Business: Implementation Strategies

    01:06:18 Final Thoughts and Resources

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    Sponsored and Produced by Tree-Fan Events LLC.Discover the future of events: https://ai.treefanevents.comLet's change the way we plan, produce, and experience events together!

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    Book Anca to Speak at Your Event: https://ancaplatontrifan.me/

    LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/

    --------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠

    --------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠

    “Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    👉 Leave us a comment about how you think AV and AI will shape the future of events, and share this episode with others in the industry!

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • 181: Community, Strategy & the Future of Experiential Events ft. Liz Lathan
    May 30 2025

    In this episode of the Events Demystified Podcast, host Anca Platon Trifan delves into the intricacies of event design with Liz Lathan, Co-founder of Club Ichi. They discuss strategies for fostering genuine connections at events, blending community and technology, and moving beyond predictable programming. Liz shares her expertise on creating experiential and human-centered B2B marketing, her role in Club Ichi, and the philosophy behind spontaneous think tanks. She also offers insights into maintaining community engagement through intentional design, strategic collaboration, and leveraging technology effectively. Tune in for a conversation filled with valuable takeaways for anyone looking to enhance their event strategy.👉 Episode Notes: https://eventsdemystified.com/👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share! Your support helps us continue to deliver insightful and engaging content like this.👉 Like and share this video to spread the knowledge.00:00 Introduction to Experiential Strategy01:54 Meet Liz Lathan: Community Life Strategy Expert04:14 The Problem with Traditional Event Design07:04 The Birth of Club Ichi10:59 Building a Thriving Community18:15 Support Systems and Team Dynamics22:16 Exciting Upcoming Events and Initiatives27:02 Upcoming Events and Registration28:30 The Role of Technology in Events30:13 Enhancing Community with Technology33:05 Emerging Tools for Engagement36:36 Personal Mission and Career Journey38:30 Memorable Event Experiences43:40 The Birth of Club Ichi47:25 Building Meaningful Connections48:22 Conclusion and Farewell

    --------------------------------------------------------------Book Anca to Speak at Your Event:

    https://ancaplatontrifan.me/LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/--------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Original Podcast Music written and produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fable Score Music. ⁠⁠--------------------------------------------------------------⁠⁠“Events: demystified” Podcast ⁠⁠is brought to you by ⁠⁠Tree-Fan Events⁠⁠, a leading woman-owned boutique event planning and production agency offering a comprehensive approach to event management and production, with a focus on enhancing the attendee experience with the #FIT4EVENTS framework for a holistic event cycle in order to create memorable events.

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    51 mins
  • 180: AI in Event Marketing: Power, Strategies, and Future Trends ft David Hirschfeld
    May 16 2025

    In this insightful episode of the Events Demystified Podcast, host Anca Platon Trifan discusses the transformative power of AI in event marketing and strategy with technology strategist David Hirschfeld, founder of Tekyz. They explore the integration of AI into event planning, including how AI can enhance attendee engagement, streamline operations, and ensure ROI. Hirschfeld shares his expertise on AI-driven analytics, predictive modeling, and personalized marketing strategies. Together, they also delve into practical applications of AI, addressing common challenges faced by event professionals, and envision the future of AI in the event industry. Whether you're an event planner, marketer, or entrepreneur, this episode provides valuable insights into utilizing AI to shape the future of your events and business.


    🔍 Topics Covered:

    00:00 Introduction to AI in Event Marketing01:53 Meet David Hirschfeld: Technology Strategist03:57 Exciting Innovations in Event Technology05:25 The Future of AI-Driven Event Planning06:13 Real-Time Translation and Contextual Tools10:00 AI Matchmaking and Personalization15:48 Workflow Automation with AI21:02 Case Study: Automating Event Preparation29:24 Leveraging AI for Feedback Analysis35:34 Integrating AI into Event Strategies40:41 Custom GPTs and Domain Expertise41:12 Collaborative AI and Feedback41:44 AI's Memory and Personalization43:47 AI in Event Planning45:43 AI in Document Management48:30 AI for Event Content Management51:29 AI for Practical Applications54:07 AI in Daily Workflow01:04:23 Future of AI in Events01:08:17 Self-Driving Cars and AI Disruption01:14:22 Scaling Smarter Podcast01:16:08 Conclusion and Call to Action



    Connect with our Guest at the links below:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschfeld/

    https://www.facebook.com/dmhirschfeld


    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    • Speaker website: ⁠⁠https://ancaplatontrifan.me/⁠⁠
    • LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/anca.platon.trifan⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/⁠



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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • 179: Breaking Barriers in Hospitality: Wellness & Global Leadership ft Reina Herschdorfer
    May 2 2025

    In this episode the host, Anca Platon Trifan, CMP, WMEP⁠ demystifies the incredible journey of Reina Herschdorfer, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for National Meetings and Events at Caesars Entertainment. Anca and the guest discuss Reina's international upbringing, her passion for inclusion, and how she has integrated decades of marketing experience to achieve groundbreaking success.

    Highlights include Reina's mentorship approach, her significant contributions to Caesars Entertainment’s wellness initiatives, and insights on leadership and diversity. Tune in for a deep dive into transformational leadership, event wellness, and personal growth strategies.


    🔍 Topics Covered:

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode

    02:01 Meet Reina Herschdorfer

    04:51 Reina's Multilingual Journey

    08:22 The Impact of International Exposure

    15:34 Mentorship and Leadership

    21:43 Setting and Achieving Goals

    30:36 Wellness Initiatives at Caesars Entertainment

    34:43 Unique Venues and Essential Partnerships

    36:19 Overcoming Event Challenges

    37:41 The Impact of Wellness on Events

    43:57 Balancing Professional and Personal Life

    53:38 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

    56:23 Conclusion and Future Plans


    Connect with our Guest at the links below:

    • Reina Herschdorfer’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/reina-h/
    • Company Website https://www.caesars.com/meetings


    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    • Speaker website: ⁠https://ancaplatontrifan.me/⁠
    • LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/anca.platon.trifan⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/



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    59 mins
  • 178: AI, Automation, and the Future of Work: The Mindset and Implementation ft. Noah Riley
    Apr 18 2025

    In this engaging episode of the Events: Demystified Podcast, host Anca Platon Trifan dives deep into the world of AI with special guest Noah Riley, founder of AI Genius Automations. They explore how AI is transforming the way we work, think, and create, and provide practical advice for businesses and individuals looking to implement AI. Key topics discussed include the right mindset for adopting AI, practical applications of AI tools, and ensuring privacy and security in AI implementation. Discover how to leverage AI to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and reclaim valuable time. Stay tuned for real-world examples and expert insights, and don't miss the closing advice on staying curious and prioritizing effectively.


    00:00 Introduction to AI and the Podcast02:11 Meet Noah Riley: AI Visionary03:48 A Humorous Encounter: How We Met07:56 The Chess and Jiu Jitsu Analogy12:11 Noah's Journey: From Graphic Design to AI17:18 The Neuroscience of Design and Events18:49 AI Implementation Challenges and Mindset25:00 Privacy, Security, and AI Risks42:07 Practical AI Strategies for Businesses44:04 Exploring AI Solutions for Businesses44:28 Taking Risks with New Technology44:54 Implementing AI in Your Company46:00 Diving Deep into GPT Capabilities49:16 Practical AI Examples for Business Owners51:49 Custom GPTs and Their Benefits01:01:55 Automation Tools: Zapier vs. Make01:13:38 Balancing Multiple Interests and Priorities01:20:17 Final Thoughts and Advice on AI Implementation


    GUEST BIO

    Noah Riley is the founder and visionary leader of AI Genius Automations. His passion for AI goes beyond his profession, he views it as a transformative technology with the potential to create time and improve people's lives. This belief drives his dedication and passion to understanding AI and making its benefits accessible to individuals and businesses alike. Noah's enthusiasm for AI is contagious, and his ability to explain complex concepts in an approachable manner makes AI understandable, accessible, and appealing to diverse audiences. His unique blend of expertise and charisma makes learning about AI both informative and enjoyable. Under Noah's leadership, AI Genius Automations is at the forefront of AI innovation and application, providing cutting-edge solutions that help clients harness the power of AI to achieve their goals.


    Connect with our Guest at the links below:

    • Noah Riley’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahrileyaigeniusautomations/
    • Company Website https://aigeniusautomations.com/
    • Company LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/aigeniusautomations/
    • YouTube: www.youtube.com/@StaceyHanke
    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/staceyhankeinc
    • Instagram: www.instagram.com/staceyhankeinc


    Connect with your Podcast Host at the links below:

    • Speaker website: https://ancaplatontrifan.me/
    • LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ancatrifan/⁠
    • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/anca.platon.trifan
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fit.mindful.maven/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eventsdemystifiedpodcast/
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    1 hr and 23 mins