Behind the Curtains of Networking Events with Devin Parker – The Networker Podcast

The NetWorker's Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Devin Parker, a seasoned event organizer at Retail Summits, to explore the ins and outs of organizing successful, intimate business events. We discuss the evolution of in-person events post-pandemic, the strategies for fostering meaningful connections between attendees and sponsors, and how Retail Summits leverages technology for lead capture. Devin shares insights on balancing networking opportunities while maintaining a personal, community-focused atmosphere at events, and how they measure success through attendee feedback, social engagement, and the quality of connections made.
Devin also highlights how Retail Summits takes a unique approach to sponsorships, prioritizing collaboration over upselling, and explains their upcoming plans for 2025 events, including a new welcome party to help attendees and sponsors connect even before the main event begins.
02:25 - Retail Summits' Event Strategies
10:26 - Transitioning from virtual to in-person events post-pandemic
16:45 - Using Popl for lead capture and sponsor-attendee engagement
26:38 - Managing communication and networking outside events
35:02 - Assessing success through feedback and improvements
39:11 - Lightning Round
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Bryce Alsten (VP Marketing and Operations at Popl)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycealsten/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brycealsten/?hl=en
X: https://x.com/brycealsten
Ryan Alvarez-Cohen (Chief Product Officer at Popl)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanalco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan_alco/
X: https://x.com/RyanAlCo11
Devin Parker (President at IC Summit, Head of Retail Summits)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devinp/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retailsummits/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/devinelizabethparker/