Author: Jeff Hannah

Inside Live Events with Carrie Freeman Parsons (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Best Practices, Covid-19, Culture, Leadership, Podcast, Relationships, Strategy

Inside Live Events: How Trade Shows Are Evolving Faster Than Ever

Inside Live Events with Carrie Freeman Parsons Featuring the Chair of the Board at Freeman

In this episode of The Global Exhibitor Podcast, I sit down with Carrie Freeman Parsons, third-generation leader and Chair of the Board at Freeman, one of the world’s largest and most influential event production companies. Carrie shares her deep insights into the evolution of the trade show and live events industry — and why today’s environment demands faster innovation, more strategic thinking, and a deeper commitment to audience needs than ever before.

Carrie also discusses her recently co-authored book, Inside Live Events, and why it serves as a vital guide for both newcomers and seasoned professionals navigating the changing landscape of face-to-face marketing.

Why Inside Live Events Matters Right Now

The pace of change in the events industry has accelerated dramatically. Carrie notes that in the past, professionals had the luxury of years of hands-on learning, mentoring, and apprenticeship. Today, that model simply doesn’t fit.

“In today’s world, you don’t have the luxury of time to learn all the nuances of the business,” Carrie explains.

That’s one of the reasons she and co-author Bob Priest-Heck felt compelled to put their ideas and practices into a book — to provide a faster, more effective way for people at all stages of their careers to understand how to create successful, impactful live events.

The Four-Phase Methodology and Design Thinking at Freeman

One of the major frameworks discussed in the conversation is the four-phase methodology developed in partnership with renowned designer Bruce Mau.

Rather than simply reacting to client requests, Freeman developed a proactive, strategic model that starts with defining the opportunity, involving all necessary stakeholders early, executing with excellence, and critically — debriefing after every project to capture what worked and what could be improved.

“Debriefing isn’t optional — it’s essential. You have to ask what worked, what didn’t, and why,” Carrie emphasizes.

Freeman’s adoption of design thinking principles has transformed not just how they build exhibits and events, but how they help clients solve the real, underlying problems they face.

Addressing the Workforce Challenge: The Retirement Cliff

Another important issue Carrie raises is what she calls the “retirement cliff” — a looming challenge where experienced professionals are leaving the industry faster than new talent can be trained and onboarded.

Freeman, like many organizations, is focusing heavily on workforce development, leadership training, and system transformation to make it easier for newer employees to ramp up quickly and succeed without the long apprenticeship periods that used to define the industry.

Meeting Evolving Audience Expectations

Carrie also highlights a major shift in audience behavior and expectations.

Where previous generations were content to simply walk the show floor and hope for serendipitous encounters, today’s attendees — especially younger ones — expect highly personalized, curated experiences that are memorable and valuable.

Creating those meaningful face-to-face connections requires a much deeper understanding of both audience psychology and technological tools to enable smarter matchmaking and engagement.

Takeaway: Live Events Must Evolve, But Their Power Remains

As Carrie says, the live events industry still holds incredible power to connect, inspire, and drive business forward — but only if companies are willing to rethink how they design experiences, engage audiences, and foster continuous improvement.

Events are living, breathing connections. They demand strategic innovation, courageous creativity, and an ongoing commitment to adapting to a rapidly changing world.

📚 Learn more about Inside Live Events and the frameworks shaping the future of the industry.

This interview was recorded in Dayton, Ohio

& Dallas, Texas.

MDL Expo International GmbH

Steve Tustain LinkedIn English

Email: steve.tustain@mdl-expo.com

Laura Palker with Jeff Hannah

Rebuilding the US Trade Show Workforce with Laura Palker (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Best Practices, Covid-19, Leadership, North America, Podcast, Strategy, United States

Laura Palker of the Exhibitions & Events Workforce Development Federation (Part 1)

The Future of the Trade Show Industry & Workforce Development

The trade show and events industry has faced massive disruptions in recent years. From the devastating impact of the pandemic to the looming “Silver Resignation,” the industry must navigate an urgent need for workforce development, skilled labor, and better representation at the national level.

In this episode of The Global Exhibitor Podcast, Jeff Hannah sits down with Laura Palker, President of the Exhibitions & Events Workforce Development Federation, to discuss the critical challenges facing the trade show industry today. With decades of experience in the industry and a passion for workforce training and advocacy, Laura provides deep insights into how the industry is working to address the current talent crisis.

The Changing Workforce in Trade Shows

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the trade show industry was filled with seasoned professionals, with the average workforce age between 53 and 58 years old and 20 to 30 years of experience. These individuals—highly skilled artisans, project managers, and business leaders—were the backbone of the industry, shaping the way exhibitions were designed, built, and executed.

However, the pandemic created an industry-wide exodus, with millions of workers leaving for good. Those who remained or joined the industry in the past few years now make up 40% of the workforce, yet they have three years of experience or less. This knowledge gap has put an incredible strain on businesses trying to maintain the same level of quality and efficiency with a largely new and inexperienced workforce.

Adding to the challenge is the Silver Resignation, the upcoming retirement of many seasoned professionals. This shift threatens to wipe out even more institutional knowledge, making it critical to develop fast-track training programs, apprenticeship initiatives, and long-term strategies to ensure that newcomers are not left to figure things out on their own.

Bringing Trade Shows Into the National Workforce Ecosystem

One of the biggest challenges the industry faces is a lack of government and educational recognition. Unlike other industries such as automotive, medical, or construction, trade shows have struggled to gain proper classification within the U.S. labor system.

Laura Palker explains the importance of O*NET Codes (Occupational Information Network) and NAICS Codes (North American Industry Classification System) in defining and legitimizing the trade show industry. Without these classifications, trade shows are effectively invisible to government agencies, workforce programs, and schools that guide students toward career opportunities.

Historically, industry professionals filling out forms for business registration, workforce statistics, or education programs have struggled to find an appropriate category for their work. Often, they’re forced to select “Other” or an unrelated classification, further erasing trade shows from official workforce data.

That’s why industry leaders have been pushing for:

  • Recognition in O*NET & NAICS systems to define trade show-related jobs
  • Career awareness campaigns to introduce trade shows as a viable profession
  • Funding opportunities for training programs at middle schools, high schools, and technical colleges

The recent success in modernizing the National Career Cluster Framework to include hospitality and events—with specific reference to trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions—is a huge step forward. The next challenge is ensuring that trade show careers are properly categorized and represented across all workforce development programs.

Building a Skilled Workforce for the Future

To address the industry’s talent shortage, the Exhibitions & Events Workforce Development Federation has been leading initiatives to create structured training programs, apprenticeships, and mentorships. These programs aim to fast-track the development of skilled professionals, ensuring that those entering the field are equipped with the knowledge they need to thrive.

Efforts include:

Trade Show Basics Training – A foundational training program designed to introduce new professionals to the industry.
Apprenticeships & Pre-Apprenticeships – Structured hands-on training programs to develop technical skills and industry knowledge.
Gap Year Internships & Mentorships – Career pathways that allow young professionals to explore trade shows as a long-term career.

Laura also highlights how industry associations, unions, and businesses must work together rather than in competition. With so many different roles and skill sets required to execute a successful trade show, every segment of the industry—from exhibit builders to show organizers to logistics providers—plays a critical role in the ecosystem.

“We are not competing with each other; we are complementary. Every piece of the puzzle is essential to making this industry work.” — Laura Palker

The Call to Action: Uniting for the Future

As Laura and Jeff discuss, the trade show industry is at a turning point. There is a limited window of opportunity to secure industry recognition, funding, and training programs. If the industry does not take advantage of this moment, it risks being left behind as other sectors continue to gain government support and workforce funding.

For those in the industry, now is the time to:

✅ Support workforce development initiatives by getting involved with industry associations.
✅ Advocate for O*NET & NAICS code updates to properly classify trade show jobs.
✅ Encourage mentorship and training to ensure knowledge transfer to the next generation.

If you’re interested in learning more about workforce development in trade shows or want to get involved, visit www.ee-wdf.org for resources and training opportunities.

🔊 Subscribe & Share: If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe and leave a review on iTunes, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

📅 Stay tuned for Part 2 of our interview with Laura Palker!

This episode was recorded at the amazing ET Global USA Headquarters in Suwanee, Georgia.

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

Website: https://ee-wdf.org/

Website: http://www.tssolutioncenter.com

Email: laura.palker@ee-wdf.org

Pat Alacqua: Industry Trailblazer and Co-Founder of Nth Degree (Part 3)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Best Practices, Leadership, Marketing, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Strategy, United States

 

Turning Obstacles into Opportunity with Pat Alacqua

In this third episode, Jeff Hannah  welcomes Pat Alacqua back for a rare look into his ventures since selling Nth Degree. Pat reflects on leadership and his vision for the future. Pat shares how perseverance, determination, and resilience have fueled his successes, including his role in business turnarounds and his recent endeavors.

Pat discusses purchasing a local sports complex and transforming it into a national brand through innovative processes for player development, training, and an event model. He talks about his “3C’s Process for Faster Growth,” as well as his upcoming book, Obstacles to Opportunity: Transforming Business Challenges Into Triumphs. Pat also reveals plans for an online membership platform offering daily tips on professional growth and business building – and highlights his collaboration with Jane Gentry on the “Optimum Value Blueprint” for the trade show industry.

Jeff and Pat explore the concept of legacy, with Pat reflecting on his desire to create a “ripple effect” by inspiring and sharing wisdom to help others grow. Pat emphasizes that success is not only about personal achievements but about enabling others to thrive.

The conversation shifts to collaboration, including the importance of working with competitors for the greater good of an industry. Pat reflects on identifying common interests and fostering partnerships that drive collective success.

When asked about the future of the trade show industry, Pat highlights the importance of shifting the “industry DNA” from a focus on individual performance to building high-performing teams. He emphasizes scaling businesses through coaching, mentoring, and empowering others, redefining success as team growth and achievement.

Jeff and Pat conclude by discussing the launch of Jeff’s new Trade Show Basics course, which is designed to support newcomers to the industry. This episode is rich with lessons on leadership, growth, and the power of collaboration.

Part 1 of my interview with Pat.

Part 2 of my interview with Pat.

Pat Alacqua on LinkedIn

Website: https://www.patalacqua.com/

Email: pat@patalacqua.com

Pat Alacqua: Industry Trailblazer and Co-Founder of Nth Degree (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Best Practices, Communications, Leadership, Marketing, North America, Podcast, Relationships, Strategy, United States, Verbal Communications

 

Leadership, Growth, and Mentorship with Pat Alacqua

In this second episode,Jeff Hannah delves into Pat Alacqua’s journey as a leader and entrepreneur, exploring the emotional and strategic dynamics of building and eventually selling Nth Degree. In this rare interview, Pat Alacqua also candidly reflects on the toll of seeing valued team members move-on over time – a natural yet bittersweet reality of leading a fast-growing business in a thriving industry where the demand for trained and skilled professionals constantly grows.

Pat discusses the complexities of growth, including the decision to hire people from outside the trade show industry to drive transformation and innovation. Jeff emphasizes the importance of a rigorous hiring process, which included assessments supported by an industrial psychologist to ensure alignment with the company’s values and culture – an approach that was uncommon for entrepreneurial companies at the time. Pat also shares his philosophy on hiring and leading great people, underscoring the value of surrounding oneself with individuals who bring diverse mindsets and perspectives to the table.

A lifelong learner, Pat reflects on how leadership is more about asking the right questions than it is about having all the right answers. He shares how continuous learning has shaped his approach to influence—building alignment, securing support, and inspiring others—all of which require patience and intentionality.

Pat also opens up about some of his greatest life challenges, the lessons they taught him, and how mentorship has been a cornerstone of his career. He passionately believes in “paying it forward” by mentoring and guiding others, and he credits much of his own success to those who mentored him along the way.

Jeff also asks about Pat’s decision to sell Nth Degree, his perspective on that decision, and his broader view on defining success. Pat talks about how growth is not just about transforming a company but about how it also transforms the people involved in that journey. He reflects on how rare and fulfilling it is to build a business with a continuous growth trajectory.

This episode is packed with insights on leadership, learning, and the power of mentorship, offering listeners valuable lessons from Pat’s remarkable career.

Stay tuned for more insights in Episode 3.

Part 1 of my interview with Pat.

Part 3 of my interview with Pat.

Pat Alacqua on LinkedIn

Website: https://www.patalacqua.com/

Email: pat@patalacqua.com

Pat Alacqua: Industry Trailblazer and Co-Founder of Nth Degree (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Best Practices, Branding, Communications, Leadership, Marketing, North America, Podcast, Storytelling, Strategy, United States, Verbal Communications

 

Foundational Strategies and Industry Impact with Pat Alacqua

In this first episode of the three-part series, Jeff Hannah conducts a rare interview with Pat Alacqua, co-founder of Nth Degree, exploring the foundational strategies and challenges that defined the company’s early days. Beyond co-founding Nth Degree, Pat has built multiple successful businesses across other industries and continues to collaborate with business leaders through his consulting services and online leadership and business growth tools, guiding them through challenges to achieve sustained growth. Together, they reflect on how the trade show industry has evolved, Nth Degree’s innovative approach to building a labor management company, and the critical importance of training and education in shaping their team and culture.

Pat shares how Nth Degree carved out its niche in the industry by focusing on differentiation, emphasizing core values like education, training, and exceptional customer service. He explains how they anticipated customer needs and proactively solved problems to set themselves apart in a fast-growing competitive landscape. Pat reflects on the high levels of risk involved in starting Nth Degree and scaling it to handle increasingly large and complex projects.

Listeners will gain insight into the legendary antitrust legal case in Dallas, Texas, where Nth Degree and its partners faced significant challenges. Although the directed verdict was not in their favor, over time they won in the court of public opinion, ultimately changing the direction of the trade show industry. This led to the development of new industry categories like “independent labor contractors,” which are now commonly referred to across the industry as “exhibitor appointed contractors” (EACs).

This episode also highlights how Nth Degree developed industry practices and terminology still in use today, such as “leadmen” and “floor managers.” They recognized the need for robust systems and processes to effectively manage rapid growth and scale the company without sacrificing quality or service. Pat’s reflections provide valuable lessons on leadership, perseverance, and innovation in a dynamic industry. Drawing on his extensive career experience, Pat also shares actionable insights to help business leaders overcome challenges and scale their companies successfully.

Stay tuned for more insights in Episodes 2 and 3 of the three-part series as Jeff and Pat continue to explore the challenges and triumphs that shaped Nth Degree and the trade show industry at large.

Part 2 of my interview with Pat.

Part 3 of my interview with Pat.

Pat Alacqua on LinkedIn

Website: https://www.patalacqua.com/

Email: pat@patalacqua.com

Jessica Turnbull Interview

Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Australia, Best Practices, Branding, Branding, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, New Zealand, North America, Perth, Podcast, Relationships, Storytelling, Strategy, Sydney, Time, United States

Down Under Dynamics: Trade Show Strategies with Jess Turnbull (Part 2)

In Part 2 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024.

Continuing our enlightening conversation with Jess Turnbull, we delve deeper into the world of exhibitions and client engagement. With a relaxed demeanor characteristic of Australians, Jess brings a wealth of insights garnered from advising and training clients on engagements, ROI, and related topics. Emphasizing the importance of booth staff training and clarity of focus, Jess guides exhibitors on how to maximize their opportunities on the show floor. Drawing on her experiences, she contrasts the hospitality-driven approach seen in European exhibits with the more selective approach prevalent in Australia.

As we explore the concept of being “on” during shows, Jess underscores the importance of presenting one’s brand in the best possible light. From discussing the underlying reasons for exhibiting to the strategic placement of coffee on Australian stands, Jess shares invaluable perspectives that resonate with exhibitors worldwide.

In this insightful continuation, Jess Turnbull provides a nuanced exploration of the art of exhibiting and the intricacies of client engagement. Join us as we uncover the strategies and tactics that define successful exhibition experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of trade shows in Australia.

The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services.

Part 1 of my interview with Jess.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah.

The Exhibit Company

Jessica Turnbull on LinkedIn

Email: jess@theexhibitcompany.com.au

Jessica Turnbull Interview

Show-Up & Stand Out: Australian Trade Show Strategist, Jessica Turnbull (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Australia, Best Practices, Branding, Branding, Covid-19, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Europe, Gender, Germany, Language, Leadership, Loose Time, Marketing, New Zealand, North America, Perth, Podcast, Relationships, Storytelling, Strategy, Sydney, Time, United States, Verbal Communications

 Down Under Dynamics: Trade Show Strategies with Jess Turnbull (Part 1) 

In Part 1 of this two-part interview, host Jeff Hannah talks with trade show strategist Jessica Turnbull of The Exhibit Company in Australia, during EXHIBITORLIVE 2024.

During this conversation, Jess shared insights into her journey, having co-founded The Exhibit Company with her stepfather, Chris Lamb some years ago. Their approach to the business is truly distinctive, placing strategy at the forefront – followed by outstanding design. It’s evident that their forward-thinking mindset has positioned them ahead of the curve, consistently delivering clear value to their clients across the continent.

Navigating the intricacies of trade shows, Jess emphasized the significance of a holistic approach, spanning pre-show preparations, on-site engagement, and post-event follow-ups. It’s critically important to make the absolute best use of your opportunities on the show floor – to really SHOW-UP – and give it your best!

While virtual engagements have their place in the marketing mix, you really must make an intentional effort to cut through all the “white noise” out there. The inherent value of face-to-face interactions remains undeniable, particularly in the Post-COVID era that we are in. This shifting landscape has brought about a change in overall attendee profile, with a noticeable uptick in the quality and focus of participants.

This conversation with Jessica Turnbull provided invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of exhibitions and the importance of strategic thinking in producing impactful experiences. Jess touched upon the dynamics of international install timelines, drawing comparisons between the USA, Europe, and Australia, before reflecting on the timeless wisdom encapsulated in Parkinson’s Law. Join us as we uncover the nuances of exhibiting in a post-pandemic world, and the enduring principles that shape our industry.

The Exhibit Company is an international custom exhibit agency, headquartered in New South Wales, Australia. They are uniquely positioned to work with brands for shows all across Australia. Their unique approach is based on strategy, creative design solutions, and solid project management. The Exhibit Company is not simply focused on providing an exhibit. Their holistic approach encompasses pre-show promotional activities, determining and tracking ROI, lead tracking & management, and booth staff training, among many other services.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee with host Jeff Hannah.

Part 2 of my interview with Jess.

The Exhibit Company

Jessica Turnbull on LinkedIn

Email: jess@theexhibitcompany.com.au

Jeff Hannah & Francisco Collazo

Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo (Part 2)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Dusseldorf, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Mexico, North America, Podcast, Puerto Rico, Relationships, Time, United States

A Look into the Life of Industrial Designer Francisco Collazo

This is Part 2 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico.

In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry.

Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use).

Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform,

They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas:

Palacio de los Deportes

World Trade Center Mexico City

Centro Citibanamex

Expo Guadalajara

Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco’s heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry.

Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America.

Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta.

Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor).

Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.”

SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah.

Francisco Collazo on LinkedIn

Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/

Jeff Hannah & Francisco Collazo

Three Generations in Mexico with Francisco Collazo (Part 1)

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Age, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Culture, Design, Ecuador, Europe, Germany, Graphics, Language, Latin America, Leadership, Loose Time, Mexico, North America, Puerto Rico, Relationships, United States

A Look into the Life of Industrial Designer Francisco Collazo

This is Part 1 of a two-part interview with international industry leader and designer Francisco Collazo, Partner and CEO of SISTEXPO (Sistemas de Exposición) in Mexico City, Mexico.

In this fascinating conversation, Francisco Collazo shares his extensive journey into the exhibition industry, tracing the evolution of his career from its inception as a young boy working with his father. More than 40 years later, Francisco’s company is now well into its third family generation and has established an outstanding reputation for themselves globally in the industry.

Host Jeff Hannah asks Francisco to share the transformative shifts he has witnessed in the Mexican exhibition landscape over the years, offering valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the industry in Mexico. Nowadays, most of the exhibits are custom-built, wooden exhibits versus system exhibits; many are still build and burn (one time use).

Francisco highlighted his knowledge of system exhibits, shedding light on the diverse range, some of the history, and how he became an expert in this area. He mentions his past interactions with historical system influencers, such as Hans Bruder (global leader of OCTANORM for over 50 years). Some of the systems they discussed are beMatrix, Aluvision, Agam, OCTANORM, SYMA, and meroform,

They discuss the primary exhibition venues in Mexico, and how those have evolved over the years in their respective areas:

Palacio de los Deportes

World Trade Center Mexico City

Centro Citibanamex

Expo Guadalajara

Jeff and Francisco share their common bond of their pathways to becoming an industrial designer. Francisco shares how he is particularly passionate about giving back to future generations of designers and design programs at various universities. Francisco’s heavy involvement in international and local industry associations underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing with others across the industry.

Francisco’s international work experience is a key focal point, illustrating the intricacies and nuances of navigating business across borders – particularly in Latin America.

Francisco opens-up about the unique experience of collaborating with family members in the industry, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of working alongside loved ones. He shares his outlook on navigating some of those challenges – and well as the reward of working with his family in the formation of this third-generation business. They specifically mention the work that his son Paco Collazo is doing with Happy Projects, based in Atlanta.

Jeff asks Francisco about his legacy, where he emphasizes continuous innovation, building connections, and providing the highest level of service possible (beyond what is happening on the trade show floor).

Host Jeff Hannah summarizes this interview by stating, “good stuff to build a business on; good stuff to build a life around.”

SISTEXPO are international exhibit and event builders, headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico. They are uniquely positioned to work across North America and South America, with a reach far beyond – into Europe and elsewhere around the world. SISTEXPO designs and builds exhibits for trade shows, works as a general contractor for entire exhibitions, provides international pavilions, and produces full-scale events. Well into their third family generation, SISTEXPO has a strong track record of over 40 years and continues to be heavily involved in international associations and works with many global brands. They are proud members of IFES, EDPA, ESSA, bePartner Network, MPI, OSPI, and AMPROFEC.

This interview was recorded live at the amazing Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, in Bonita Springs, Florida (USA) with host Jeff Hannah.

Francisco Collazo on LinkedIn

Website: https://www.sistexpo.com/

Jeff Hannah & Mazi Farzam

Inside the Mind of Digital Genius Mazi Farzam

Posted on by Jeff Hannah | In Bahrain, Communications, Culture, Design, Europe, Germany, Kuwait, Language, Latin America, Middle East, North America, Podcast, Qatar, Relationships, Saudi Arabia, Storytelling, Strategy, The Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States

Storytelling Genius Mazi Farzam of Inhance Digital

In this episode, host Jeff Hannah interviews digital genius, Mazi Farzam, CEO of Inhance Digital, an agency based in Los Angeles, California. Mazi is focused on the intersection of science, technology, and storytelling. Under his leadership, Inhance has built a global reputation for content generation, user experience creation, visual effects, and immersive storytelling. Inhance works across a wide range of industries where their work finds application in museums, trade shows, executive briefing centers, and other types of experiences.

Mazi is from the Middle East, but is an American now, having worked and traveled extensively around the world. He has a fantastic understanding of cultural differences and how those impact business, interpersonal relationships, and the design of experiences. He is passionate about technology, experiences, and entertainment.

Jeff and Mazi talk about how culture plays into design of interactives and storytelling. They take a deeper look at the differences between basic translation and localization. Mazi stresses the importance of having locals to help craft the story – understanding the connotations of the local language, colloquialisms, and sensitivities to various topics and issues. He explains how most of their projects are designed to be used across a spectrum of different cultures.

Mazi talks how the most effective experiences are those in which the digital and interactive elements are seamlessly integrated into the physical architectural spaces; some refer to this as phygital. Both elements are critically important. But they need to be fully understood, appreciated, and designed together to achieve this level of integration.

Looking into the future, Mazi talks about how the metaverse will change the way we go about our daily lives. He talks about how the technology itself may become more transparent in some ways: more integrated into everything but less obviously visible. He indicates that we are just on the precipice of an exciting new era in technology – one which has the potential to improve humanity in ways that we have yet to see. This could help us build a better world – improving communications, awareness, healthcare, and the environment, just to name a few!

Jeff asks Mazi about what makes Inhance truly unique in their work, as they have achieved an outstanding reputation in the past twenty-plus years. He notes that being in Hollywood helps them to attract some of the best talent in this world. Many of their team members work in feature films, visual effects (VFX), and as AAA game developers. They are distinctly client focused, nimble, and fast in their development.

Inhance Digital is an award-winning interactive agency that helps tell complex stories. Their services span content generation, visual effects, physical brand activation/immersive experiences, and virtual brand exhibits and events. Inhance is at the forefront of delivering custom, cutting-edge interactive experiences for both in-person brand activations as well as virtual and online customer engagement.

This interview was recorded live at EXHIBITORLIVE in Las Vegas, Nevada with host Jeff Hannah.

Mazi on LinkedIn

Website: https://www.inhance.com/