Feeling stuck in your event career right now? You are not alone. I have had so many conversations with event professionals over the last several months, and the same theme keeps coming up: people are applying, putting in real effort, and still not hearing back. Getting ghosted. Struggling just to get noticed. It is genuinely harder out there right now than it has been in a long time.

The good news is that being stuck doesn’t mean you have to stay there. After 30-plus years in this industry, I know that getting unstuck comes down to intentional, strategic steps, not luck. These are the same steps that have worked for me and for my students and mentees who have faced these exact challenges. Let’s walk through them together.

Know Where You’re Going

“Every move should be intentional in the direction of your vision.”

When you hop in your car, you know exactly where you’re headed. Your career should be no different. Before anything else, spend some real time with yourself and ask: Where am I now? Where do I want to go next?

When I was a Convention Services Manager at a hotel chain, I knew deep down I wanted explore the planner side of the industry. The moment I got clear on that and put my focus there, opportunities started aligning in ways they simply had not before.

Make your vision plain. Write it down, make it specific, and let it become your filter for every decision you make. Every project, every connection, every skill you develop should point toward that next step. No distractions. Clarity is not just motivating, it’s strategic.

Update Your Resume (and LinkedIn)

“Your resume and LinkedIn should tell the same story – one that says you’re ready for what’s next.”

If you have not been in the job market recently, hear this: it has changed. Employers want tangible outcomes, not just a list of responsibilities. And here is something many people do not realize: AI is now filtering applications before a recruiter ever sees them. A job posting can receive hundreds of resumes within 24 hours, which means your keywords, your contact info, and the consistency between your resume and LinkedIn all matter more than ever.

Even if you are not actively job hunting, refresh your resume regularly and stay active on LinkedIn. The best time to prepare for your next move is before you need to make it. So, if you are not yet familiar with AI tools –  start getting comfortable. Showing that you are adaptable and curious about technology is becoming a real differentiator. Employers love candidates who evolve with the times.

Make Meaningful Connections

“Your next opportunity probably lives in someone else’s contact list.”

Networking is not just showing up to an event and handing out business cards. It is about building real relationships with people who know your name and trust your work. Attend industry events when you can, and if travel is not always realistic, lean into virtual connections. A goal of five new LinkedIn connections a month is a solid starting point, and then take it a step further with a virtual coffee chat.

Most people stop at hitting accept on a connection request and never go any further. But opportunities tend to live in the second and third conversation, not the first click. The more intentional you are about staying in front of people, the more top of mind you become when something opens up. That’s how you go from invisible to in-demand.

Leverage LinkedIn (Yes, Even If You’re an Introvert)

“Visibility is credibility. If no one knows you exist, they can’t recommend you.”

Here’s a secret: I have a love-hate relationship with LinkedIn. I’m an introvert by nature and showing up consistently does not always come naturally to me. But I can’t argue with the results that I’ve seen, for my own business and for the event professionals I coach. You do not have to be on there every day. Even showing up once a month, sharing a photo from your last event or commenting on a peer’s post, keeps you visible and on top of people’s minds.

I recently spoke with a planner who got laid off completely out of nowhere. She had been in her role for years, her resume was outdated, and she had never really used LinkedIn. She was starting from scratch at the worst possible time. Do not let that be you. Being proactive now is so much easier than being reactive later.

Think of LinkedIn as your digital business card that never gets lost. In a world where so many connections are virtual, it’s one of the strongest tools for staying visible and relevant.

Provide Value

“The most in-demand professionals don’t just do their jobs – they make others better for knowing them.”

Employers today are more savvy than ever, and are paying attention to how you show up online before they ever meet you. That means your presence is either working for you or against you. Are you someone who contributes solutions, insights, or encouragement?

Providing value does not have to be complicated. It can be sharing a lesson from a challenging event, recommending a tool that improved your workflow, or simply being the person in your network who shows up with encouragement and insight.

An area worth leaning into right now is AI. Companies are genuinely excited about candidates who understand how to leverage these tools to work smarter. If you can speak to that, whether on your resume, in an interview, or in your content online, you are adding real value to your network.

One of my favorite ways to give value is through my weekly newsletter. It’s where I get personal about the lessons I’m learning and the tools I’m using to stay focused and purpose-driven. When you consistently give value, people begin to associate your name with growth, wisdom, and reliability – that’s the foundation of becoming in-demand.

Make the Ask

“You miss 100% of the opportunities you don’t ask for.”

This is the step most people skip, and it is one of the most powerful. Ask for the referral. Ask for the recommendation. Ask for the opportunity. People are busy and they are not always thinking about how to help you until you give them a reason to. A simple message like, “I am applying for a role I think would be a great fit. Is there any way you could connect me or serve as a reference?” is often all it takes to move the needle.

Advocating for yourself is not pushy. It’s proactive. The professionals I have watched rise the fastest are the ones who step up, make themselves visible, and make it easy for others to say yes. They advocate for themselves consistently and respectfully. That is how you go from waiting to be discovered to being the person everyone is recommending.

Bringing It All Together

Moving from stuck to in-demand is not about an overnight success. It is about showing up with clarity, confidence, and consistency. You do not have to tackle all six steps at once. Pick one, take action on it this week, and build from there.

• Maybe you update your resume

• Maybe you reach out to that one person you’ve been meaning to connect with

• Maybe you finally post that LinkedIn update

Because momentum – event small momentum –  beats stagnation every single time. Whatever it is, just move.

What’s one area of your event career where you feel “stuck”? And which of these six actions could help you move forward this month?

Take a few minutes to write it down, then take the first step. Stay on purpose!

We are officially in 2026, and before we jump into goals and packed calendars, I have one question for you – how are you really doing? Event planner burnout is real, and after everything 2025 threw at us, it’s important that we enter this new season with intention. Here are five smart tips to help you not just survive 2026, but truly thrive in it.

Do a Self-Care Assessment First

Before you go any further into this year, stop and check in with yourself. Event planner burnout doesn’t always announce itself – sometimes it sneaks up quietly while you’re busy delivering for everyone else. If your body is telling you to slow down, listen. Rest, reduce your load, and build yourself back up responsibly. Create a real self-care plan and stick to it whether that’s a hard stop time at the end of your workday, more time with loved ones, or a little weekly self-indulgence that recharges you.

If you’re feeling energized and ready to crush your goals, let’s go! Just make sure you’re replenishing as you go so burnout doesn’t sneak up on you later.

Stay Diligent About Your Goals

With so much economic uncertainty out there, it’s easy to get swept up in every headline and “what if.” Stay informed, but don’t let the noise knock you off your game. Keep moving steadily toward your vision and protect the environment where you do your best work.

Unless something is directly threatening your livelihood, your best move is to stay focused on what you can control and keep going.

Keep an Eye on Industry Trends

There are a few trends shaping our industry right now that are worth your attention. Rising costs per attendee are a real concern — over 72% of respondents in the American Express Global Meetings & Events Forecast reported increases. Start thinking now about how you’ll manage budgets without sacrificing the experience.

Attendees are also craving authentic, engaging, live experiences more than ever. And AI is making it easier to analyze event data and tell better stories with your results. These are the trends that will guide smart planning in 2026.

Fortify Your Business with AI

Take a look at your current workflow and ask yourself – where could this be easier? Then explore how AI tools can help you get there. If you’re not sure where to start, just ask the AI itself! There are also plenty of free resources and workshops online to help you get comfortable.

AI is here to stay, so use it intentionally, ethically, and in a way that genuinely supports your process and your clients.

Start Small

Don’t underestimate the power of one small shift. Sometimes the smallest change, one better boundary, one new tool, one slightly different approach – creates the biggest ripple effect. Think about just one thing you can change in your life, your career, or your next event to make it better.

You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. You just have to keep moving forward on purpose.

Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

I hope these tips gave you some great fuel for the year ahead! If you want the full deep dive on each one, check out the video below. And if you’re looking for support in reaching your goals this year, I’d love to connect. Schedule a Purpose Call and let’s talk about what’s next for you.

Here’s to a purposeful and powerful 2026!

Establishing boundaries can be tough. Have you ever caught yourself responding to texts, emails, and DMs at all hours, even when your body is clearly done for the day?

Or maybe you keep taking on tasks that someone else could absolutely handle, but it feels faster or safer to just do it yourself.

If you’re nodding along, you’re not failing. You’re responding to an industry that has quietly normalized overextension.

As an event coach and strategist, with 30 years in the event industry, I’ve lived this firsthand. I’ve seen how unclear boundaries slowly chip away at confidence, energy, and even career momentum. And lately, in conversation after conversation with event professionals, I hear the same thing:

“There’s more work than ever, but fewer people to do it.”

So we stretch. We absorb. We make it work.

Until the emotional drain becomes constant.

Here’s the thing most planners don’t realize soon enough: boundaries aren’t about pulling back. They’re about positioning yourself to do better work and be taken more seriously.

Why boundaries feel so hard in events

Event professionals are wired to help. We’re problem-solvers. We care deeply about the experience, the outcome, and the people involved. That combination makes it incredibly easy to blur lines and incredibly hard to say no as we establish our boundaries.

But when boundaries are missing, a few things start to happen:

• You become the default fixer for everything.
• You absorb stress that isn’t actually yours.
• Quality becomes harder to maintain, even when you’re working nonstop.
• Resentment quietly builds.

None of that leads to career growth. It leads to burnout disguised as dedication.

Professional boundaries that quietly elevate your reputation

Start with availability

If you don’t define your working hours and response times, people will assume you’re always available. One of the simplest shifts you can make is updating your calendar settings so your availability reflects reality.

This does two things:

1. It sets expectations without a long explanation.
2. It reinforces your awareness of how much time you actually have.

You don’t need to overexplain. “I’m available after 9am” is enough.

Pause before saying yes

Not every request needs an immediate answer. A simple pause like, “Let me look at the timeline and get back to you,” creates space to think strategically instead of reactively.

That pause is where leadership shows up. It allows you to assess feasibility, delegate if needed, or offer an alternative that still supports the goal without overwhelming you.

Clarify before you comply

When a request feels unreasonable or unclear, repeat it back. Confirm what’s being asked. Then connect it to impact: timeline, budget, staffing, or risk.

This shifts the conversation from pressure to practicality. And more often than not, it reduces the ask without conflict.

Mental and emotional boundaries that protect your confidence

Event work is emotional work. Deadlines are tight. Stakes are high. Stress can come at you from every direction.

One of the most important boundaries you can build is emotional separation. That means recognizing that a client’s urgency or frustration does not have to become your internal state.

Small practices help:

• Take a few deep breaths before and after difficult calls.
• Give yourself a moment before responding to emotionally charged messages.
• Never reply when you’re angry or overwhelmed.

You’re not disconnecting. You’re staying grounded enough to do your best work.

Recovery time matters

If you go straight from one major event into the next without pause, your nervous system never resets. Buffer time before and after events is not indulgent. It’s protective.

Even half a day can make a difference.

Operational boundaries that reduce chaos

Clear communication is a boundary. So is structure.

When people know:

• how to reach you,
• who covers what,
• and what happens when you’re out,

fewer fires pop up.

Structured feedback is another overlooked boundary. Debriefs and constructive conversations aren’t just nice to have. They set standards and improve future outcomes. When feedback is part of the process, expectations get clearer over time.

Technology boundaries in an AI-heavy world

Technology is supposed to make work lighter. But without structure, it does the opposite.

Many planners are feeling overwhelmed by tools, platforms, and constant updates, especially with AI entering workflows so quickly. More efficiency often leads to more expectations, not less.

Boundaries here look like:

• Proper training before adoption
• Clear feedback when tools aren’t helping
• Permission to slow implementation when teams are stretched

Tech should support the work, not add another layer of stress.

Personal energy boundaries that sustain you long-term

Your phone is not neutral. Constant scrolling, notifications, and group texts drain energy even when they feel mindless.

Protecting your energy might mean:

• Setting device downtime in the evening
• Silencing group threads that don’t require immediate attention
• Creating small “micro-rests” during long days or onsite events

Five minutes of breathing or a short walk can reset your focus more than powering through ever will.

And finally, manage scope creep. When “just one more thing” keeps getting added, it’s your responsibility to name the impact. That’s not pushback. That’s professionalism.

One simple question to end on

What is one boundary you’re willing to set this week?

Not ten. Just one.

Who does it impact?
How will you communicate it?
What do you hope it gives you back?

Boundaries don’t limit your career. They strengthen it.

And when done well, they help you stay in this industry longer, healthier, and with more confidence.

Launching a podcast can feel daunting, but with the right mindset and tools, it can become one of the most fulfilling ways to share your ideas with the world. As someone who started podcasting as an introvert-friendly alternative to live video, I’ve learned many lessons along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your process, here are some tips to help you navigate the podcasting journey.

Start with the Right Mindset

When I began my podcast, Planners on Purpose, it felt natural, low-entry and true to who I am. Starting with a medium that feels enjoyable is essential. Whether it’s podcasting, blogging, or YouTube, choose the platform that excites you. Without that excitement, it will feel like a chore, and podcasting should never operate from a place of struggle or grind.

The Basics You Need to Start Podcasting

These days, starting a podcast is as simple as having:

• A computer or even just your phone.
• A microphone (optional but improves quality).
• Editing software (Descript or GarageBand are great).
• A podcast hosting platform like Buzzsprout to distribute your episodes.

The real key is knowing your “why”. This is the story or perspective that excites you so much you’d talk about it endlessly. Passion is the fuel that keeps your podcast going.

Recording at Home vs. Onsite

While I’ve only recorded at home, onsite podcasting requires different equipment, especially if you’re doing interviews. Still, you can keep it simple with a laptop, your preferred platform, and some basic gear. Remember, you can always refine your process as you grow.

Podcasting vs. YouTube: Which to Choose?

While podcasting is growing, YouTube offers incredible discoverability thanks to its search algorithms. If you can manage both, they complement each other well. But if you’re starting with one, pick the one that feels sustainable and authentic for you.

Finding Guests and Creating Authentic Conversations

Reaching out to people you already know professionally is an excellent way to start. Having genuine, aligned conversations keeps the podcast engaging. A quick pre-chat helps ensure you’re on the same page about the episode’s direction.

Consistency: Weekly Episodes vs. Batches or Seasons

While a regular weekly schedule is ideal for marketing and audience growth, it’s not always feasible. If you’re juggling other responsibilities, batching episodes ahead of time can reduce stress. Record several episodes in one sitting, then release them gradually. This way, you stay consistent without overwhelming yourself.

Balancing Podcasting with Work and Family

Prioritize your podcast like any other important task. Dedicate specific days for recording, editing, and scheduling. Early in the week often works best, allowing you to tackle other responsibilities without feeling rushed.

Keeping Momentum in Busy Seasons

Life happens. Whether it’s travel, family obligations, or a busy work season, planning ahead is key. Build a backlog of episodes to release during these times. If your podcast isn’t your primary business driver, it’s okay to pause and recalibrate when necessary.

The Branding Benefits of Podcasting

A podcast is an extension of your brand. Every episode title and topic should tie back to your core message and business goals. For me, podcasting allows me to highlight conversations about burnout prevention, productivity, and leadership. It’s a powerful tool for connecting with your target audience in a deeper way.

Making Episodes Engaging

To captivate your audience:

• Invite diverse guests and perspectives.
• Provide added value, like bonus content or worksheets.
• Keep your tone conversational and authentic—don’t overproduce or overthink it.

Helpful Tools for Podcasting

Here are some tools I recommend:

• Descript (editing software).
• GarageBand (for Mac users).
• Blue Ice or Blue Yeti Mic (great for audio quality).
• Buzzsprout (hosting platform).
• Ring light (if you’re recording video too).

Shortcuts to Easy Podcasting

• Start small: You don’t need a studio; your car, closet, or kitchen table will do.
• Embrace imperfection: Authentic conversations resonate more than overproduced ones.
• Use what you have: A smartphone can work just fine for recording.

Podcasting doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on your passion, keep it simple, and evolve as you go. With dedication and these tips, you’ll find your rhythm and enjoy the journey of connecting with your audience.

Want to learn more podcasting tips? Event Planner News and I teamed up with other event industry podcasters to bring you even more tips to bring you more insights on podcasting.

*Note that this post contains affiliate links, which may mean that I earn a small commission or receive a discount if you should purchase that product after clicking. I only recommend the products that I have used and have had a great experience with. No payment has been received to promote or recommend these products.

In this episode of the Planners on Purpose Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Matthew Bryne, founder of Bryne Production Services. With over 20 years in the event production industry, Matthew shared valuable insights on what makes for successful event production and how event professionals can better partner with production companies.

From Theater to Events

Matthew’s production journey began in theater, where he worked as a production manager, stage manager, and technical director. He gradually transitioned into live events, bringing his theatrical background to an industry that was still developing. After spending 15 years working for audiovisual companies and production agencies, Matthew launched his own production company in fall 2019 – right before the pandemic hit.

“We created a company that was a production company first,” Matthew’s approach is simple but powerful: he leads with production strategy, not inventory. In other words, it’s not about pushing what equipment is in the warehouse—it’s about storytelling, creating impact and designing an experience that hits the client’s goals first.

The result? Event pros get a creative partner who helps them deliver impact, not just screens and speakers.

Navigating the Pandemic

This production-first philosophy would prove crucial during the pandemic when live events came to a halt. When COVID-19 struck, Matthew’s team quickly pivoted to help clients deliver virtual events with high production value. “What we heard from our clients was a real challenge with trying to do virtual really well,” he shared. Rather than simply hosting events on Zoom, Matthew’s team helped clients translate their content into television-style broadcast production.

This approach required shifting mindsets about how to engage audiences who were now watching through small video windows rather than experiencing events in person. “The medium is the message,” Matthew noted, referencing Marshall McLuhan. This meant being purposeful with every frame, transition, and sound element – aspects often taken for granted in live events.

Finding Inspiration

Matthew looks beyond the event industry for creative inspiration, often examining European design, television production, eSports, and experience design in restaurants. He emphasizes three critical elements for success: “The right people, the right process, and the right technology – all wrapped in meaningful design.”

What makes the events industry exciting for Matthew is the marriage of business objectives with creative problem-solving. “I get to take all of my creativity and all of my creative experience and combine those to elevate that objective,” he said.

Building Better Partnerships

For event professionals looking to work effectively with production companies, Matthew recommends transparency, openness, and honesty about budgets, timelines, and objectives. He compares finding the right production partner to a healthy relationship built on trust and vulnerability. Matthew emphasized that once event professionals have that open and honest dialogue, it skyrockets the success of events.

Managing Production Costs

When discussing budgets, Matthew acknowledged the reality of increased costs for labor and equipment. However, he encouraged planners to think strategically about allocating resources and to view event production as an investment rather than an expense.

He advised planners to be upfront about budget constraints and to ask production partners for creative solutions, and gives this dialogued example: “Look, I have a limited budget. I really want to have this impact. What are your suggestions and how can you be a strategic partner to help me make those decisions?”

Content Strategy Is the New Game

Here’s something to think about: your event isn’t a standalone moment. It’s a content goldmine.

Matthew shared how smart brands are using events as part of a year-round marketing and media strategy. That means capturing high-quality video onsite, planning for post-event storytelling, and designing production with both the room and the replay in mind.

If you’re not thinking about how your general session footage can fuel your social media, internal communications, or sales campaigns—you’re leaving value on the table.

A Final Word on Trust

 Matthew dropped this gem in talking about trust with your production provider. “There’s a difference between hiring someone to run a show and trusting someone to help you design one.”

The first is transactional. The second is transformational.

When we as planners move from order-placing to co-creating, magic happens. We stop scrambling and start leading. We stop fixing problems and start building experiences. And we build teams—not just vendors—who are aligned with our purpose.

In Summary

Matthew’s production-first approach and emphasis on storytelling offer valuable perspectives for event professionals. By building transparent relationships with production partners and thinking strategically about content creation, planners can create more impactful and memorable events – whether in-person, virtual, or hybrid.

The most important takeaway? Don’t be afraid to admit what you don’t know. As Matthew puts it: “If as a planner or producer or organizer, if you can come to the table with that sort of candid vulnerability, it is going to pay off tenfold down the road.”

The Bottom Line for Event Pros

• Be transparent about budget and goals—it leads to smarter production.
• Think beyond the room. Design with video and post-event storytelling in mind.
• Don’t be afraid to admit what you don’t know. Vulnerability builds trust.
• Choose partners, not just providers. Look for people who care about your vision.
• Start content planning before the event, not after.

Whether you’re planning a high-profile launch or an internal meeting, it’s time to think bigger about production. When we shift from what equipment do I need? to what experience do I want to create?, we stop surviving events—and start designing them.

Until next time, stay on purpose.

Links and Resources

Byrne Production Services

Looking for other ways to enjoy this podcast? Listen on Spotify or Subscribe on Itunes!

Avoiding burnout in the event industry isn’t easy especially considering that event planning is consistently ranked as one of the most stressful jobs in the world. The fast pace, endless deadlines, and high client expectations can create a perfect storm of stress for event professionals. Without the right strategies in place, this can quickly lead to burnout, which is detrimental not only to planners’ well-being but also to the success of their events. Here are some key insights and strategies to help event professionals avoid burnout while thriving in their careers.

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

Burnout doesn’t just happen overnight; it’s often a gradual build-up of stress over time. Recognizing the early signs is crucial for taking action before things spiral out of control. Some common warning signs include:

• Lack of Sleep: Consistently getting less than 6-8 hours of sleep can be a red flag. While the industry is known for long hours, lack of rest leads to fatigue, decreased productivity, and a greater chance of making mistakes.
• Health Issues: If headaches, back pain, or other stress-related ailments become frequent, this could be your body signaling that it’s under too much pressure.
• Detachment: When you start feeling disconnected from your work—losing the passion that once drove you—it’s time to reassess. Event planners love what they do, but when stress becomes overwhelming, that passion can quickly turn into resentment.

Practical Strategies for Managing Stress

Burnout can be avoided with the right preventive measures. Here are a few strategies that event professionals can implement to manage stress effectively:

Take Breaks Regularly

Even when it feels like you don’t have time, scheduling regular breaks is essential. Whether it’s a half-day, a full day, or a week off, stepping away from work allows your body and mind to reset. Taking short breaks throughout the day can also improve focus and productivity.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

The administrative side of event planning—tracking details, managing timelines, and coordinating logistics—can be overwhelming. Thankfully, advancements in technology have provided planners with tools to automate and streamline processes. Using these tools can significantly reduce the mental load and free up time to focus on what really matters: creating meaningful event experiences. Event planners should also assess the tools they currently use. Are they fully leveraging them? In many cases, optimizing the use of existing tools can have a huge impact on efficiency.

Set Boundaries and Communicate

Managing client expectations is one of the most stressful aspects of event planning. It’s important to have clear boundaries and be upfront about them with clients. If a client’s demands are contributing to an unhealthy work-life balance, don’t be afraid to propose alternative solutions or more reasonable deadlines. Open communication can alleviate some of the pressure and help reset expectations.

Prioritize Rest and Health

Lack of rest is a leading contributor to burnout. Event professionals should aim for consistent, quality sleep and take care of their physical health. This might include incorporating daily movement, relaxation techniques, or mindfulness practices into their routine. When your body is in a healthier state, your mind can better handle stress.

Know When to Say No

One of the hardest things for event planners to do is turn down opportunities or requests, especially when they’re passionate about their work. But saying yes to everything can quickly lead to overload. It’s important to evaluate your workload regularly and identify areas where you can delegate tasks or say no. This not only preserves your energy but ensures that you can give your best to the projects that matter most.

Impact of Avoiding Burnout in the Event Industry

As the events industry begins to bounce back post-pandemic, the risk of burnout is even higher. With the surge in events and planners eager to rebuild, many professionals are juggling more responsibilities than ever before. It’s essential to strike a balance between taking on new opportunities and managing stress levels.

One of the key elements in avoiding burnout is to ensure that you are regularly checking in with yourself. Take a moment to evaluate your workload and well-being. Are you saying yes too often? Are you making time for rest and relaxation? And most importantly, are you taking care of yourself as well as you take care of your clients?

Burnout prevention is an ongoing process. The event industry is demanding, but by staying aware of the warning signs and implementing effective stress-management strategies, planners can protect their well-being while continuing to deliver exceptional experiences.

If you’re an event professional looking to level up your career, chances are you’ve considered earning your Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Designation. And if you’ve done your research, you know this isn’t another certificate that you can breeze through. From the in-depth application to the intense study required, passing the CMP exam takes some serious commitment.

As an event planner seeking CMP certification, preparing well for the exam is one of the most strategic moves you can make in your career. If you’re anything like me, the idea of studying might bring back some not-so-sweet high school memories. But here’s the truth: the only way to pass is to prepare – and a CMP Study Group can be the secret weapon to get you there.

In a CMP Study group, not only do you get the support that you need to make sure that you’re studying the right material in the right way and not doing it alone. Joining a CMP Study Group made all the difference for me, so I pulled together a few of the biggest I’ve experienced – ones that might just help you too.

Top-Notch Facilitation

CMP Study Groups are run by top-notch facilitators that have studied and passed the CMP exam themselves. They know what material will most likely be on the exam, and they share methods of study that typically work for their students. Facilitators may also be in partnership with the Events Industry Council, whether serving on a committee or being a preferred education partner. Finding the right CMP exam prep facilitator who can guide and support you is a must in supporting you in passing the exam.

Productive Learning Environment

When you are aiming for CMP preparedness, you also need to consider the learning environment that you’ll be studying within. There are so many CMP Prep classes that are available and most have different learning environments or formats. The best thing to consider is how much time you must devote to study, and perhaps if you would like to be in a supportive environment for several hours, a couple days, or several weeks. Additionally, having access to study tools beyond the class or course is also helpful for your continued learning when the class is no longer meeting.

Diverse Group Support

Achieving your CMP is no small feat and can be seen as a unique challenge. Having others to support you and provide diverse thought as you’re absorbing the material is certainly helpful. When adding in the support of other peers that perhaps come from different areas of the industry or that may have a different life experience, it can help give you helpful perspective when studying for the exam.  I’m still friends with a few people from my CMP Study Group, and in a very tight knit industry, connections can go a long way.

“We need diversity of thought in the world to fact the new challenges.” – Tim Berners-Lee

Targeted Accountability

You could study on your own, but who is holding you accountable? That’s what makes CMP Study Groups effective: having a facilitator or a group partner to keep you accountable in the areas that you need to study. Many study groups also have a study plan to make studying easier for you. Additionally, having group meetings can help ensure learning adoption and that you’re on track.

Ongoing Support

After you complete a study group, or the time for the bootcamp is over, it’s helpful to have additional support. With CMP Study Groups, this usually comes in the form of having the resources, videos, and tools available to you for a certain amount of time after your class ends. Additionally, staying in contact with a learning partner can be helpful to ensure you have support especially if you aren’t taking the exam right away. Without having a CMP Study group, you wouldn’t have access to any of these wonderful options that would be available to you.

Summary

So to wrap it up, it’s important to know that there are tangible benefits to CMP Study Groups that far outweigh the costs that you would have to invest in them. Joining a CMP Study Group would be the best way for you to study and put your best foot forward when taking the CMP exam. And in many situations, it is a tried-and-true approach to ensuring that you pass the exam. I hope this has helped you decide on if a CMP Study Group is right for you.

Thinking about joining a CMP Study Group? Our Planners on Purpose Study Groups offer everything that I’ve mentioned and more – expert guidance, accountability, resources, and a supportive community that gets it. We’d love to welcome you to our next live session. Click here to learn more and grab your seat.

In a world where digital distractions dominate our attention spans, Jacques Martiquet – better known as “The Party Scientist” – is on a mission to shake up the events industry with a revolutionary concept: genuine human connection is the secret ingredient to unforgettable experiences. On this episode of the podcast, Jacques shared his infectious enthusiasm for the neuroscience of joy and revealed how event planners can transform ordinary gatherings into extraordinary communities. He believes that events should be transformative, not just transactional. Jacques’s work challenges event planners to go beyond logistics and create experiences that foster mental well-being, social connectedness, and shared joy.

What is a Party Scientist?

“The essence of party science is social neuroscience,” Jacques explains thoughtfully. Far from being just a catchy title, his work dives deep into understanding what happens in our brains and bodies during group activities. Those huddles, singalongs, shared movements, and authentic conversations? They’re not just fun – they’re actually releasing powerful neurotransmitters that enhance human connection, create social bonds, and elevate our mood.

Furthermore, Jacques points to surprising research: “According to one of the most recent meta-analyses about treating depression, we know that dancing is the most effective treatment out of all of them.” Move over, expensive therapies – the dance floor might be the most powerful antidepressant around! This finding supports his philosophy that social connection isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a health habit as essential as hitting the gym.

For a Party Scientist like Jacques, the key to event success isn’t just about great speakers or dazzling entertainment—it’s about designing opportunities for authentic social bonding. Jacques calls this approach “party science”—using principles of neuroscience, psychology, and movement to bring people together in ways that are both joyful and meaningful.

Breaking the Social Autopilot

Ever noticed how a spectacular moment at an event can paradoxically kill the vibe? Jacques shares a telling anecdote from a poolside party in Mexico where a drone show appeared overhead. “Immediately everything stopped, the whole party stopped, and everyone took out their phones,” he recalls. While this spectacle created shared joy, it halted all human connection.

This illustrates what Jacques calls the “social autopilot” – in other words, it’s our tendency to fall into passive, disengaged patterns, particularly when distracted by smartphones. “When your attendees have their social autopilot on, it is not helping them reach their goals. It is not helping them feel the sense of community you want them to experience.”

The solution? Designing experiences that encourage attendees to pocket their phones and engage with each other – not just with a performance. As Jacques puts it: “We need to shape the social norms so that people are not constantly on their phones.” While grand entertainment moments have their place, they don’t necessarily create social connection. In other words, less spectacular drone shows, more activities that foster genuine human interaction!

The Power of Opening Ceremonies

If you’re still using traditional keynotes to kick off your event, you may be doing yourself a disservice. Jacques’ most game-changing concept is his approach to event openings. “The opening of the event sets the social norms and sets the tone for the rest of the event,” he explains.

For instance, a Jacques-approved opening ceremony achieves three key goals:

1. Changing attendees’ physiological state by elevating energy and joy (hello, endorphins!)
2. Fostering psychological safety so people feel comfortable taking social risks
3. Creating a sense of belonging that transforms strangers into community

What does this look like in practice? For smaller gatherings, it might involve gratitude exercises, guided conversations with prompts like “How are you really?”, or movement activities with upbeat music. For larger groups, breaking into smaller pods works wonders.

The best part? These interactive openings aren’t just fun – they’re strategic. “The more social risks our attendees take, generally, they will have a more positive experience,” Jacques explains. “They’re going to ask better questions. They’re going to express more emotion. They’re going to approach more people they don’t know.”

Finding Joy in the Planning Process

Let’s face it – event planning can be stressful! Jacques offers delightfully simple advice for finding joy amid the chaos:

1. Treat interactions as energy boosters – “We need to think of human connection as fuel for our tank,” Jacques advises. Research shows that simply talking to strangers can boost your mood for the entire day. Those small exchanges with venue staff, vendors, and attendees? They’re not just pleasantries – they’re mood elevators!
2. Embrace imperfection with humor – “I’m a master of not taking myself seriously,” Jacques shares. When something falls and breaks, he chuckles rather than stresses. This lighthearted approach not only helps planners stay sane but creates a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
3. Use environmental cues for mindfulness – Tense shoulders? That’s a signal to take a deep breath. Notice joy in others? That’s a cue to celebrate. These simple awareness practices can transform a hectic planning day into a more centered experience.

The Future of Events: Physiology Matters

Looking forward, Jacques envisions an events industry where passive sitting is replaced by active engagement. He questions whether current practices – from overscheduled evenings to sugar-loaded buffets – truly serve attendees’ wellbeing.

“I hope the events industry moves away from sitting and watching, and we move toward tools that change our physiological states, improve our focus, improve blood flow to the brain,” he explains. “The opening ceremony is where it’s most important, but I hope eventually it’s every 30 minutes people are up and moving.”

Summary: Let’s Disrupt the Events Industry with Joy

In summary, Jacques Martiquet’s approach to events isn’t just refreshing – it’s revolutionary. In a world where digital disconnection is the norm, his focus on the neuroscience of joy offers a blueprint for events that don’t just entertain but transform.

The principles he shares extend beyond event planning to everyday life: make small intentional choices, celebrate positive interactions, and take time to process experiences rather than carrying stress forward.

Ready to become a “certified meeting disruptor” yourself? Dive deeper into the science of joy by listening to the full episode of the Planners on Purpose podcast, where Jacques shares even more insights on combating burnout, fostering team connectivity, and creating memorable events that prioritize the most powerful technology of all – human connection.

If you’re looking for Jacques, The Party Scientist to support you in creating an unforgettable experience at your next event, connect with him via his website.

Photo credit: Epnac Event Photography

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