215 - How Technology is shaping In-Person Events - with BJ Mazmanian

215 - How Technology is shaping In-Person Events - with BJ Mazmanian

Author: Jim Cermak June 5, 2023 Duration: 21:39

Event Tech flourished throughout the pandemic as we all went virtual. How about now with Live In-Person events back to being the norm? 

My guest BJ Mazmanian is Sr. Director of Client Services and Live Events at Bluewater. With a 20-year career in the live events space, BJ focuses on mobile and large-scale events, bringing a unique perspective on how to think through activation plans, extend client budgets, and push clients out of their comfort zones. 

We discuss:

  • How has technology impacted the way brands approach in-person events, particularly trade shows?
  • What types of technology are brands using to create a more personalized sales process at trade shows?
  • What are some of the biggest challenges that brands face when trying to make their trade show booths more exciting for attendees? How do you address those challenges?
  • How can brands ensure that their booth stands out in a sea of other booths at a trade show?

BJ's Takeaways:

1) By scanning and interacting with different elements in the booth, a communication plan can be created based on all of the elements that were selected or interacted with that get sent automatically.

2) Extending dollars that are being spent – meaning looking at mobile tours / digital interactives that are being made to be used after the singular event. Create a canvas that can be updated / changed based on the show vs starting over every time

3)Think larger than just one event or one event budget. How can you build a strategy and plan that will help you get more bang for your buck?

Connect with BJ:


Mentioned in this episode:

Subscribe to the new Trade Show University YouTube channel!

Check out the new Trade Show University YouTube channel where we feature a growing number of training videos to help businesses get More Leads, More Sales and More Profits through the power of Trade Shows! Many videos are exclusive to YouTube and not found on the podcast. Visit, Subscribe and Binge! https://www.youtube.com/@tradeshowuniversity


Jim Cermak hosts Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events, a deep and practical resource for anyone whose business depends on connecting with an audience, whether on a convention floor or through a screen. This isn't about vague inspiration; it's a working toolkit built from conversations with seasoned experts and Jim's own extensive experience. Each episode functions like a focused seminar, delivering actionable tips and training that exhibitors, marketers, and show planners can apply immediately to see a real difference in their engagement and return on investment. With a library spanning over 220 episodes, the podcast covers the full spectrum of modern event planning-from crafting a compelling virtual booth experience to mastering the logistics and psychology of a live trade show. You'll hear candid discussions on common pitfalls, innovative strategies that are working right now, and breakdowns of what truly moves the needle for businesses. Beyond the audio, the community around this podcast extends into consulting and collaborative training, emphasizing real-world application. For professionals tired of wasting time and budget on events that don't deliver, this series offers a clear path forward, turning every appearance into a measurable success.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events
Podcast Episodes
258 - 8 Tips to Hit Your Goals when the Trade Show is SLOW [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:36
You're an exhibitor working a trade show or conference when all of a sudden, the traffic stops. What happened to the Attendees? Where is everyone? What do you do? I'm going to give you 8 TIPS you need to make the most of…
Sell MORE Event Tickets & Keep More MONEY - with Ashley Stanford [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:28
How to attract More Attendees to your Trade Shows, Conferences and Events, Sell More Tickets, and Keep More Money! Get the Tips on using the right Marketing and Ticket Platform.** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PRO…
256 - Should you BUY or RENT your Trade Show Exhibit?  With Chris Dunn [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:13
Should you buy or rent the exhibit for your next Trade Show, Conference or Event? What's the ROI? This is a top question for big and Small Business across the US and Europe.** Want More LEADS, More SALES and More PROFITS…
255 - AI is Changing the Game for Events - with Anca Trifan [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:28
AI continues to evolve, and there are more tools available than ever. So let's learn what we can do to improve our events by hearing from one of the top experts in the industry! Proud to have join me Anca Trifan of Tree-…
253 - Top 10 Tips for NETWORKING at Trade Shows & Business Events [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:39
Ready to multiply the opportunities you get from your next trade show? Then you've got to learn how to effectively network with others! Your best leads an opportunities will come from people you personally know, so let's…
252 - AI & VR can Revolutionize Trade Shows - with Danny Stefanic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:54
So if you've been wondering about AI, you've been wondering about the metaverse and what it all means for our events and our trade shows, listen to this episode.Danny Stefanic is CEO and Founder of the Hyperspace Metaver…