Amplifying event energy with Michael Barclay II

Amplifying event energy with Michael Barclay II

Author: Bizzabo October 28, 2024 Duration: 28:56

In this episode of Event Experience by Bizzabo, Rachel interviews Michael Barclay II, executive vice president of experiential at Essence Ventures, about his career and the critical role of experiential marketing in consumer engagement. Michael shares personal insights, such as event day essentials, his reading interests in Afro futurism, and industry trends like 'funflation.'

Michael Barclay II is a top-tier experiential executive globally, known for driving success across companies, brands, and events. As the Executive Vice President of Experiential at ESSENCE Ventures, he spearheads the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, the largest festival in the U.S. by per-day attendance, attracting nearly 170,000 attendees daily to New Orleans. Recognized as an Industry Innovator by BizBash, Barclay's accolades include a Cannes Lion Bronze Award for the Simone Biles "Pause Is Power" Powerade campaign and a Clio Sports Bronze Award. 

Here's what you'll hear about in this conversation:

  • How to worldbuild for your event experiences

  • How to sustain attendee energy during and after events

  • Michael's new Crowded House creator platform

Mentioned in this episode

For the full transcript, mentions, and more, visit www.bizzabo.com/podcast/michael-barclay-energy-exchange-experiential.


Ever wondered what really happens behind the curtain of a massive conference or a groundbreaking product launch? Event Experience, presented by Bizzabo, pulls back that curtain entirely. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a direct line to the people who've actually built the stages, managed the chaos, and captivated thousands. Each episode sits down with a different Event Experience Leader, those individuals responsible for shaping how we gather and connect. You'll hear firsthand accounts-the unexpected hurdles, the last-minute saves, and the strategies that turned a simple gathering into a memorable phenomenon. Conversations dive deep into the practical realities of event marketing and management, exploring how to genuinely engage an audience and, crucially, how to define and measure success beyond just ticket sales. The podcast serves as a collective masterclass, distilling hard-won wisdom from the trenches of global events. If you're involved in bringing people together, whether for a corporate function or a sprawling festival, these candid stories and actionable insights will change how you approach your next project. Tune in to learn from the best, so you can leave your own audience talking long after the lights come up.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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