Summary:
In this episode, Emily and Bernie are joined by Adrian Segar, a meeting designer, facilitator, and author of Conferences That Work.
Adrian shares his unique journey from particle physics to revolutionizing the way conferences are run.
He explains how he pioneered an entirely new format for meetings, focusing on peer-driven content and fostering genuine human connections.
We discuss the evolving role of in-person events, why they still matter in 2024, and how coworking spaces can elevate community and collaboration through well-designed gatherings.
Adrian also dives into actionable strategies for coworking space managers to enhance events, ensuring they bring out the best in their communities.
Whether you're planning a conference, managing a coworking space, or just curious about the future of meetings, this conversation is packed with insights on designing events that foster meaningful connections and practical takeaways.
Timeline Summary:
[00:57] – Adrian shares his journey from academic physics to becoming a leader in meeting design.
[02:24] – How Adrian’s impromptu meeting structure changed the conference world in 1992.
[04:27] – The shifting reasons people attend events in 2024 and why connection is more important than ever.
[08:29] – How coworking spaces can improve community collaboration through well-thought-out events.
[11:15] – Adrian’s 3-question approach to uncovering hidden resources and needs in coworking events.
[15:30] – Why the term “unconference” doesn’t fully capture the essence of peer-led conferences.
[19:55] – Strategies for encouraging attendees to take action post-event and maintain momentum.
[23:27] – How to collect feedback effectively and adapt future events to community needs.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
Adrian Segar, a veteran in the meeting design space, talks us through his revolutionary approach to creating events where the attendees shape the content and connections matter more than presentations.
Drawing on decades of experience, Adrian explains how he designed his first peer conference by necessity, sparking a new way of thinking about how we gather.
Instead of passive learning, he encourages event planners to foster collaboration, build networks, and allow participants to dictate the agenda.
Adrian emphasises that people no longer attend events just for content — they come to connect.
With the rise of the internet, accessing knowledge is easier than ever, but meeting like-minded individuals in person still holds unmatched value.
This philosophy is crucial in 2024, as event attendees seek real human connections, the opportunity to network, and a way to integrate what they learn into their daily lives.
He also shares his advice for coworking space managers: enhancing events to build genuine community bonds.
By asking the right questions — "What do you need?" and "What can you offer?" — coworking events can reveal valuable skills and experiences within the room and enable collaboration that extends far beyond the event itself.
Adrian's method of peer-driven conferences and meetings makes coworking spaces more than just office rentals; they become hubs of opportunity, connection, and innovation.
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Unlocking the Power of Connection in Conferences with Adrian Segar