Barefoot Business

Liz talks with Pedro Góes, founder of InEvent, to trace how a scrappy college idea became one of the most innovative event platforms in the world. From Y Combinator beginnings and pandemic pivots to AI-powered registration and photo matching, they explore what’s next for event technology, the future of virtual, and why details matter more than ever.

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 Liz sits down with Matthew Petmecki of Nunify to unpack how an 11-year-old platform is winning over small-to-midsize teams (and agencies) with unlimited-events subscriptions, true white-label branding, easy badge printing, and plug-and-play integrations. They swap stories on scavenger hunts, AI matchmaking, and why human connection, not just features, decides which tools stick. 

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 Liz and Angela Gargano, former biochemist, six-time American Ninja Warrior, and keynote speaker, unpack her ACL-on-TV setback, the comeback, and how she turned resilience into a stage-ready message. They dig into attention-grabbing storytelling, building a speaking career, vision boards that actually guide action, and why human connection beats algorithms. Cameos: pickleball losses, AI hackathons, and practical tips for event pros...

 Liz chats with photographer and former event planner Brooke Bryand about what it really takes to translate the magic of an event into images that drive marketing and sponsorship ROI. They dive into the power of planning content early, how to brief your creative team for maximum value, the myth of “we’ll just use phone pics,” and the difference between photos that document and photos that feel. Bonus: Brooke’s tips on turning same-...

 In this episode of Barefoot Business, Liz Lathan and Nicola Kastner, CEO of Event Leaders Exchange, talk about the journey from event logistics to boardroom strategy. Nicola shares how trusting her instincts, embracing data, and building community helped her navigate career pivots, lead through uncertainty, and empower the next generation. 

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Jenny Blaschke, a live event calligrapher and engraving artist, and Liz Lathan discuss the high-stakes world of personalizing luxury gifts, from engraving $300 cameras to hot foiling leather goods. Jenny shares how she transitioned from wedding invitations to high-volume corporate and incentive events, creating interactive experiences that engage attendees. They discuss the power of personalization in networking, the challenges of ...

 Liz Lathan and Tamar Beck, CEO of Gleanin, talk about her journey from trade show organizer to tech entrepreneur. Tamar shares how Gleanin helps event marketers scale audience acquisition through advocacy and network effects, plus insights on the evolution of their Activate event and podcast. They discuss the challenges of being a non-technical founder, the role of AI in event marketing, and how building community drives success. 

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Today's Barefoot Business episode is full of laughter, wild stories, and incredible event adventures with not one, but two Nicoles! Liz Lathan is joined by Nicole Matthews of The Henley Company and Nicole Osibodu. From Bedouin camps in Dubai to Prosecco-fueled moments in Tuscany, the trio relives their most chaotic and joyful travel and event stories.

Nicole Matthews dives into how she built her career, including starting The H...

In this episode of Barefoot Business, Liz Lathan chats with MK Granados, the brilliant mind leading sponsorship innovation at Informa Markets. From orchestrating trade shows and brand activations to finding new ways to create meaningful attendee experiences, MK shares stories and strategies that elevate events beyond the basics.

They dive into wild activations, including Samsung battery swaps at SXSW, Deadpool-branded toilet seat co...

 Liz Lathan is joined by Mark Mohammadpour, founder of Chasing the Sun, to discuss creating a culture of wellbeing in events. Mark shares his journey from PR executive to wellness advocate, offering actionable tips on reducing burnout, setting boundaries, and improving both personal and team health. They cover managing meetings, using multiple workspaces, supporting global teams, and thriving as a solopreneur.

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Liz Lathan and with Heidi Hiller, founder of Innovative Party Planners, discuss building a successful event business from the ground up. Heidi shares her journey from graphic designer to event mogul, covering topics like scaling a business, managing a team, and the power of networking. They dive into lessons learned through the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and how to balance passion for creativity with strategic bu...

In this episode of Barefoot Business, Liz Lathan welcomes Paul Tramonte, principal designer of Paul Tremonti Events. Paul's journey in events began with a family tradition of gathering around the table, which evolved into a thriving career rooted in hospitality. Paul shares how his early roles in food service and hotel operations shaped his approach to event design and management, emphasizing the importance of personal connect...

In this episode of Barefoot Business, Liz Lathan welcomes event veteran and production specialist Sean Schuette. From his accidental start in events at Target to orchestrating large-scale productions like Firehouse Expo and Disney's California Adventure experiences, Sean shares his journey of creating events that truly change people and environments. Hear his insights on partnering with speakers, navigating high-pressure situa...

In this Barefoot Business episode, Liz Lathan chats with Ronnie Anderson, a Philly-based event producer with roots in broadcasting and videography. Ronnie shares her journey from high school party planner to seasoned event pro, creating immersive experiences that engage all five senses. They discuss the balance between freelancing and running your own business, managing feast-or-famine cycles, and setting boundaries to maintain pro...

 In this episode of Barefoot Business, Liz Lathan is joined by Tess Vismale, a powerhouse in on-site event execution and event tech facilitation. Tess shares her journey from ballet performances to managing high-profile events like Disney Upfronts and the DNC. Hear how her early experiences behind the scenes at trade shows shaped her career, why she thrives on organized chaos, and how she’s become a trusted name for seamless event ...

 In this episode of the Barefoot Business Podcast, Liz Lathan chats with Katie Sacco about her journey from nonprofit leadership to high-tech event strategy and running her consulting firm. They explore topics like sustainable event practices, building effective RFPs, and advancing careers through understanding data, cross-department collaboration, and strategic mentorship. Katie shares the value of community, citing the transforma...

 This episode of the Barefoot Business Podcast features Liz Lathan in conversation with Kyle Morris, diving deep into the intersection of technology, relationships, and community in the event industry. Kyle shares his journey from starting an AV business at 17 to becoming a creative technologist and expert in experiential marketing. They explore how AI can revolutionize event planning by cutting through noise, enhancing engagement,...

In this episode of Barefoot Business, Liz Lathan chats with Dana Ellis, the first Club Ichi insider and founder of Ellis International, about her journey from airport meet-and-greets to running her own event planning and production business. Dana shares insights on thriving as a freelancer, maintaining calm under pressure, and continually delivering value to clients. They discuss the cyclical nature of corporate planning layoffs, t...