99 - From Events to Experiences: Sophia Umanski’s High-Impact Framework

In this new episode of The High Profit Event Show, host Rudy Rodriguez is joined by Sophia Umanski, the Chief Experience Architect at Maverick1000. With more than 15 years of experience designing extraordinary, high-level adventure events, Sophia brings a rare blend of strategic thinking and heartfelt intention to the world of experiential design. From organizing bike rides with Sir Richard Branson on Necker Island to orchestrating deeply immersive retreats across the globe, Sophia’s work goes far beyond logistics—she creates transformational moments that attendees carry with them for a lifetime.

Sophia’s journey into the world of high-impact events began in hotel sales and marketing, where she learned the value of relationship building and attention to detail. But it was her desire to create deeper, more meaningful connections that ultimately shaped her path as a true experience curator. In this episode, she shares how she helps entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and communities build powerful memories by crafting environments that are rooted in authenticity, intentionality, and emotional resonance.

One of the core themes of the episode is the idea of redefining what it means to host an event. Sophia challenges the traditional mindset of planning for structure and content alone. Instead, she encourages event leaders to create experiences that evoke emotion and transformation. Her philosophy is grounded in the belief that when people feel a deep sense of belonging, connection, and inspiration, they not only remember the experience—they become lifelong advocates for your mission.

Another major focus of the conversation is Sophia’s process of designing with intention. She walks us through how every decision—from the venue to the pacing of the schedule—is made in service of the emotional arc of the event. She reverse-engineers each experience by asking, “How do we want people to feel at every stage?” Her insights reveal how details like the choice of food, amount of downtime, and flow of energy in the room can elevate an event from good to extraordinary.

Finally, Sophia dives into the power of play, tradition, and emotional connection as tools for deepening impact. Through activities like beach volleyball, cultural immersion, or simply giving guests space to bond in meaningful ways, she shows how rituals and fun can be the glue that holds communities together. These “anchor moments,” as she calls them, build trust and create continuity, encouraging attendees to return again and again.

This episode is a must-listen for any event leader ready to move beyond checklists and truly create legacy-level experiences. Sophia’s wisdom, heart, and clarity offer a blueprint for designing events that don’t just inform—they transform.

Want to connect with Sophia?

Email: [e-mail]

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

Website: https://maverick1000.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-umanski-0201b87/