229 - Behavior Change Design for Events - with Kristin Malek

229 - Behavior Change Design for Events - with Kristin Malek

Author: Jim Cermak September 11, 2023 Duration: 27:28

Are you designing your events with Behavior Change in mind? Are you wondering what that even means? You have GOT to understand how important this is, and you are definitely in the right place to start learning!

My guest this week is Kristin Malek, and this is her second time on Trade Show University! Kristin is an expert in designing experiences that change behavior and mindset. After 10 years in higher education, she realized that engagement without behavior change is useless at best, and dangerous at worst. The only way to enact real change and inspire action is to first design a transformational experience that would inspire change from within. Kristin has won double digit international, regional, and state awards to include international Educator of the Year and Excellence in Teaching and Training.

We discuss:

  • What exactly is Behavior Change Design
  • How it is different from Project Management
  • Why designing for engagement is so important
  • Kristin's latest project - Experience University
  • And so much more!

Kristin's Top Tips:

  • Engagement isn't activities
  • Engagement without behavior change is essentially useless
  • If you don't design for behavior change it's like planting a tomato seed without giving it a cage - it will grow but without structure of direction

Kristin's Big Takeaway:

  • Change management is just project management; designing for behavior change is completely different.

Connect with Kristin Malek:


***Check out Kristin's first visit on Trade Show University!

  • Career Growth & Education Options in Events - LISTEN HERE

For more info on Trade Show University coaching and consulting services - CLICK HERE

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Mentioned in this episode:

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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: 50

Trade Show University for Virtual & Live Events
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