After our conversation with master improviser Gary Hirsch we sit down to discuss our biggest takeaways and how we can use that to create better community experiences.

Some of the topics we touch on this episode:

• how event dynamics have dramatically shifted in the post-pandemic world
• how evolving priorities have affected interaction with events and how that is shaping event logistics
• how online events have paved the way for synchronous social engagement, a feature often missing in traditional in-person events

11:32 - Leadership Failures and Ignoring Community Impact

We talk about the problem of seeing people as numbers rather than unique individuals. We share a real example where an event organizer didn't think about the audience and added an interview with a political candidate that didn't fit the event's theme, causing a bad experience for everyone.

20:18 - Introverts, Networking, and the Importance of Acknowledgment and Connection at Events

How are introverts coping with events nowadays? We address the challenges introverts encounter during networking and talk through some tools and conversation starters to use. We also highlight the advantages of creating relaxed opportunities for attendees to connect without overcomplicating things.

25:45 - The Changing Landscape of Events

We discuss how people's expectations are evolving as people re-invest in live experiences to rekindle a sense of connection and excitement in their lives. The key message here is the importance of adapting to these shifts, whether you're an event organizer or an attendee, to create more meaningful and fulfilling experiences.

Want to dive deeper? Take our free 30 minute training, Community Event Mastery. Access it here.

Next episode: Dance and Connection in Community with Jordan Hayles