Better Events

In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Frost to unpack what goes into organizing maker markets and what event pros can learn from them. We dive into her expertise on managing vendor relationships and how to set your event up for long-term success. She shares how she balances curation with inclusivity, prepares for common onsite challenges, and helps vendors feel genuinely supported, not just managed. A practical, values-driven conversation with lessons that apply far beyond markets to conferences, galas, and festivals.
SHOW NOTES:
Connect with Sarah Frost:
Website: ⁠www.makinglocal.com
Instagram: @makinglocalmarkets / @makinglocal (2 accounts)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakingLocalMarkets
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-frost-5b8254316/
Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6
Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest
Want our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected]
THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!
——
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
@bettereventspod
@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)
@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we flip the perspective from last week's episode and talk about what it really means to be an event contractor — and how to get hired (and rehired). We break down how contracting differs from freelancing or staff roles, which event positions tend to work best in this model, and what helps you stand out before you ever arrive onsite. We also cover professional rate conversations, boundaries, and how to be helpful without overstepping.
SHOW NOTES:
Relisten to the first part in last week's episode, Episode #245!
Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6
Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest
Want our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected]
THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!
——
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
@bettereventspod
@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)
@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to hire event contractors and build the right team for your events. We talk through which roles are typically contracted, how to decide what to outsource versus handle in-house, and where to find great contractors in the first place. We also share the signals that tell us someone will be a strong partner before show day — along with the red flags we’ve learned to take seriously sooner. Get ready to learn how you can use contractors to build out your team (and if you're a contractor, learn what folks hiring look for).
SHOW NOTES:
Learn more about our partner Kilbreath Events: https://www.kilbreathevents.com/
Listen back to episode #115: https://open.spotify.com/episode/56rAzDgoEV1An0hNYI0Awa?si=l5VyW4_sSnCFa0FX9WwsIg
Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6
Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest
Want our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected]
THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!
——
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
@bettereventspod
@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)
@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this episode, we’re joined by Queen Noveen — an Emmy-nominated live announcer and voice actress whose voice has powered everything from major sports and awards shows to film, TV, and commercials. We dive into what live announcing actually entails, the preparation and pressure behind the mic, and why it’s far more than “just reading a script.” Queen shares stories from high-profile events, reflects on making history with the first all-female PA announcing team for the 49ers, and offers practical advice on how event organizers can better support on-camera and live talent. A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at a role that shapes the energy of live events in real time.
SHOW NOTES:
Connect with Queen Noveen:
Website: ⁠www.QueenNoveen.com
YouTube: ⁠ ⁨@QueenNoveen⁩ 
Tiktok & Instagram: @QueenNoveen
Facebook: www.facebook.com/queennoveen
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/queennoveen
Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6
Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest
Want our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected]
THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
@bettereventspod
@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)
@epeventsllc (Mary)

In this solo episode, Mary breaks down where nonprofits should actually spend their time when planning fundraising events — and where effort often gets misplaced. She walks through two common planning scenarios, sharing how to balance relationship-building with logistics, prioritize activities that drive real return, and avoid overspending without sacrificing impact. The conversation also digs into what makes an event “worth it,” from net revenue and donor retention to staff energy and burnout. A grounded, strategic listen for nonprofit teams looking to fundraise more thoughtfully.
SHOW NOTES:
Learn more about Mary and her business: https://epevents.org/
Register interest for the 2026 Better Events Conference: https://forms.gle/caX87sth8DpgyZPi6
Learn more about the pod, Better Events Conference and more: https://bettereventspod.com/the-latest
Want our updated free run of show template? Send us an email at [email protected]
THANKS FOR THE LOVE! Love this podcast? Please share with your event friends, tag us, and leave a review!——FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
@bettereventspod
@loganstrategygroup_events (Logan)
@epeventsllc (Mary)