Ignite Your Events: The Podcast

No More Free Speakers!

Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s long overdue for discussion—how we value professional speakers and why they deserve to be paid for their work. Yes, even at industry events!
Joining us is Tami Adams, founder and curator of speaking talent at TA Speakers Management. Adams is a longtime supported of the Ignite Worth it initiative, which was founded on the idea that the industry can only grow if we articulate and stand up for our value. She walks the talk everyday, not only for herself, but for the talented professional speakers she represents.
Get ready for an episode packed with tons of inspirational ideas for event pros!
Resources:
Read the Tami Adams’ essay, “Redefining how we Value Professional Speakers” in the Winter 2023 issue of Ignite.
Visit the TA Speakers Management website >
Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Next episode: In the Great Minds column of the Spring Issue of Ignite, Monica Gomez, founder The Concierge Club, advocates for a standardized RFP process. We’re thrilled to explore this further with her on the podcast.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2025

Let's Talk Money!!

In this episode, we’re getting real about money with Keri Miller, Chief Creative Strategist at e=mc² events. She’s one of our go-tos when we take Ignite's Worth It: Stand up for Business Events initiative on the road. In fact, she joined us on stage at IMEX in Las Vegas last fall.
 
And it's Miller’s views on compensation that prompted us to invite her on the podcast today. Miller is a strong advocate for fair and equitable compensation. She freely shares her wisdom and pricing philosophy with fellow event planners. If we don’t price with a eye to paying ourselves, she says, “I’m worried we are going to have some old poor event planners in our future.”
 
Get ready for an episode packed with tons of inspirational ideas for event pros!
 
A special thank you to our episode sponsor, Winnipeg Tourism. Learn what makes Winnipeg a unique and memorable destination for business events. meetingswinnipeg.com
And check out Winnipeg-Plus streaming service at meetingswinnipeg.com/choose-winnipeg/winnipeg-plus
 
Resources:
Read the “Getting Real About Rates” in the Summer 2023 issue of Ignite.
 
Listen to Episode 4 where Julia O’Grady of ITM Events based in Ottawa shares her journey of declaring her value and charging her worth.
 
Get O’Grady’s Pricing Worksheet.
 
Visit Ignite's Worth It landing page on our website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
 
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration. https://account.ignitemag.ca
 
Visit us on LinkedIn
 
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
 
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Next episode: We are joined by Tami Adams, Founder, TA Speakers Management
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
 
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2025

Trending Now: Insights from the Ignite Team

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome the Ignite team into the podcast booth! Together, we’re diving into the trends shaping the industry in 2025, from networking and sustainability strategies to culinary innovations and diversity-focused event design and more. Get ready for an episode packed with tons of inspirational ideas for event pros!
A special thank you to our episode sponsor, Quebec City. Learn what makes Quebec City a unique and memorable destination for business events at https://meetings.quebec-cite.com/en
Ignite Team Members in this episode:
Jennifer Newby, Melaya Horsten, Rose Filice, and Angela Kryhul
Resources:
Read the Ignite 2025 Event Trend Report in the Winter Issue of Ignite!
Read Tips for Plant-based Menus published by Destination Toronto
La Tablée des Chefs food recovery program.
Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration. https://account.ignitemag.ca
Visit us on LinkedIn >
 
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Next episode: We are joined by Keri Miller, chief creative strategist, e=mc² events.  You’ll love her insights on elevating the industry’s business practices.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2025
 

Our New Year's Wishes for 2025

In this bonus episode, Ignite team members share our hopes and dreams for our beloved business events community for 2025.
Do you have some wishes for 2025? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Ignite Team Members in this Episode:
Laura Bickle, Angela Kryhul, Jennifer Newby, Rose Filice, Melaya Horsten, Debbie van der Beek
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration. https://account.ignitemag.ca
We hope you enjoyed this bonus episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2025

Room for Improvement

This episode, we’re ready to stir the pot and tackle industry practices that need a makeover—all in the name of elevating the business event industry and driving discussion. On the docket: unprofessional behaviour on FAM trips, transparency in budgets and fees, discounting practices and idea theft. 
A special thank you to our episode sponsor, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Connect with their team to start planning your next event! Visit mtccc.com | sales@mtccc.com
Resources:
Download your free FAM Participant Agreement Template and customize it your own needs.
Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
 
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Next episode: The entire Ignite team joins us in the podcast booth to share their insights on what’s new and noteworthy in events now. Be prepared to be inspired!
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
 
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2024

The Perfectly Imperfect Case for DE&I in Events

In this episode we talk to Dwayne Rutherford, founder and managing director, Debonair Corporate Events, on the importance of keeping up the momentum with DE&I efforts at events. As some corporations seem to be retreating from DE&I initiatives, it is important for the events industry to forge ahead and set an example for creating experiences and spaces that are welcoming to everyone. You don’t need to be an expert in DE&I, you just need to keep it top of mind and continue to learn.
 
Special Guest:
Dwayne Rutherford, founder and managing director, Debonair Corporate Events
debonaircorporateevents.ca
 
A special thank you to our episode sponsors:
Bahamas Tourist Office
The Bahamas offers the perfect balance of business and pleasure. From its incentive worthy resorts and meeting spaces, to exploring nature and experiencing the local culture with festivals like Junkanoo, Bahamas is the perfect place to host your groups.
Learn more>
 
Live Nation Canada
With eleven venues nationwide and growing, Live Nation Canada offers a diverse selection of incredibly unique venues for your AGMs, award shows, receptions and more.  Learn more about venues such as Toronto's Lake House, The Velvet Underground, History, Vancouver's Commodore Ballroom, or the new Key to Bala in Muskoka, to name a few! Connect with their planning team here: specialeventsca@livenation.com
 
Resources:
Ignite's Pocket Guide on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion  Access Now >
Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content. 
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
 
About the Podcast:
Brought to you by Ignite, the magazine for business event professionals, Ignite Your Events explores the issues facing the industry—from RFPs and price setting to ethics and negotiating—and speaks to the innovative thinkers who are working on the solutions.
Your hosts, Debbie van der Beek, President and Chief Visionary Officer of Ignite and Editor, and Director of Content Innovation Laura Bickle aren’t afraid stir the pot and have the tough discussions necessary to move the industry forward.
Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation filled with real experiences, actionable advice and a sense of community.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2024

Setting Boundaries and Defining Your Worth

In this episode of the Ignite Your Events Podcast, Laura and Debbie explore the challenges faced by event pros in aligning personal values with career growth. Whether you’re an independent planner, corporate event coordinator or supplier, this conversation delves into the importance of setting boundaries, managing workloads and confidently articulating your worth.
Listen in for valuable insights on pricing, client management and maintaining professional standards across the industry. Plus, hear inspiring stories of resilience and the power of saying no when values no longer align.
A special thank you to Ottawa Tourism for sponsoring this episode! Get in touch with the Ottawa Tourism Business Events team to build an unforgettable event in Canada’s capital. Learn more here >
Resources:
Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Next episode: Dwayne Rutherford, founder and CEO of Debonair Corporate Events shares his career journey and why it’s vital the industry stays focused on DEI.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2024

The $14,000 Lesson

Julia O’Grady is the “chief futurist and head of schmoozing” at ITM Events based in Ottawa and has been in the industry for more than 15 years.
O’Grady is a fierce advocate for elevating the business proposition of the industry while promoting an approach that respects all stakeholders.
You’ll be captivated by her story of her losing $14,000 on a program and how that experience changed her entire approach to her business. And you’ll walk away with lots of actionable tips— and a handy pricing worksheet (see link below).
Guest: Julia O’Grady, Chief Futurist, Head of Schmoozing, ITM Events 
Resources:
Get O’Grady’s Event Pricing Worksheet here >
Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
Copyright Ignite 2024

An Event Pro's Tips for Work-Life Balance

Lisa Zivontsis started her career with various event and incentive firms before founding The Event Partner in 2016. Lisa is known for her advocacy in the event industry, speaking out about the need for fair, people-focused business practices. In this episode, she shares how a devastating loss sent her on a journey toward balancing her family life and her mental health with her love of the work.
Guest: Lisa Zivontsis, CMP, DES, founder of The Event Partner
Resources:
Visit Worth It on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
Next episode:
When event planner and entrepreneur Julia O’Grady decided to take a deep dive into her business practices, the results propelled her to completely overhaul her business model and how she sets her rates. Now, she’s sharing what she learned.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
 
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
© Copyright Ignite 2024
 

An Event Pro’s Lessons Learned on RFP's

In this episode, we dive deep into the corporate event planning industry with Anita Carlyle, managing partner at Moore Carlyle Consulting and MCC Destination Management in Toronto. She’ll take us through how her company handles the challenges of the RFP process, protecting ideas, the impact of the economy on events and fostering mutually beneficial client relationships.
Guest: Anita Carlyle, Managing Partner at Moore Carlyle Consulting and MCC Destination Management. Connect with Anita at acarlyle@mccplanners.com.
 
Resources:
Visit Worth It on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.
Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.
Visit us on LinkedIn >
 
Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.
 
Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast on your favourite app so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.
 
Next episode: Event planner and entrepreneur Lisa Zivontsis shares how a devastating loss sent her on a journey toward balancing her family life and her mental health with her love of the work.
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!
 
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
© Copyright Ignite 2024