Confex 2026 Live: The Training Department’s Hands-On Route Into Corporate Event Production

Recorded live at Confex 2026 inside an Evolution Dome, James Dickson sits down with Lefteris Angelidis, CEO and creative director of Visual Architects. They discuss the company’s journey from club and festival theming to a full-service creative production house with manufacturing, 3D, robotics and interior design capabilities. The conversation covers how 3D renders and AI speed creative briefs, the importance of in-house synergy between design and production, sustainability through reusable assets, Manchester roots and international projects, and the logistics and opportunities shaping events today. Find out more about Visual Architects  Thanks to our friends at Evolution Dome for helping make these episodes possible. To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

Recorded live at International Confex 2026 from an Evolution Dome pod, James Dickson interviews Fran Starkie and Joe Chilvers about The Training Department’s new nine-module corporate production management programme. They discuss how the hands-on, modular courses bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world event production, while supporting students and career switchers. The episode covers course structure, industry partnerships, networking opportunities, accreditation plans, and practical realities of event work, plus where to find more information and a discount code (EPS200) at https://thetrainingdept.live/. Thanks to our friends at Evolution Dome for helping make these episodes possible. To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dixon talks with Jenny McNeil, founder of Feast & Fable, about creating immersive, narrative-driven dining experiences that use food as the central storytelling device for brands and events. They cover Jenny’s career path, examples of multi-room and sensory activations, and how sound, scent, performance and context make meals memorable for press, influencers and consumers. Visit https://www.feast-fable.co.uk/ to find out more To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dickson speaks with Jens Nisson, Director & Executive Head Chef at Bubble Food, about translating restaurant techniques to events, crafting narrative-driven menus, and prioritising provenance and sustainability. The episode also explores logistics, front-of-house staffing, street-food influences, staying creatively current, and how Bubble Food delivers standout experiences across venues. Visit https://bubblefood.com/ to learn more. To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dickson is joined by A Greener Future’s Claire O’Neill to talk about GEI18, AGF’s Green Events & Innovations Conference taking place next week on 24th February at Royal Lancaster London. GEI18 is set to be a day of succinct, practical sessions on sustainability in live events covering certifications, power, waste, community impact as much more. Speakers include industry leaders and music-sector partners (Earth Percent), with awards recognising the best green events and venues. The conference blends case studies, deep dives and discussion to help organisers take real steps toward greener, inclusive events. To find out more visit: https://www.agreenerfuture.com/gei To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dickson welcomes event business success coach Nick Oxborrow to kick off 2026 with a candid conversation about his journey from hospitality into events, starting a business in Singapore, and the impact of the 2008 financial crisis. Nick explains why event professionals often struggle to monetise their skills, the importance of financial planning and relationship-building, how tech and AI should support, not replace, human connections, and practical tips for using simple tools like Notes and Excel to run events effectively. To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dixon records live from Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, with guest Goc O'Callaghan — co-founder of ArcTanGent Festival and founder of UBQex. They discuss measuring the "return on experience", real-time metrics, personalisation, imagination poverty, accessibility, and the need to design events around people. The episode offers practical ideas — using apps and algorithms for personalisation, psychographic design, breaking physical content compartments, and balancing ROI with meaningful attendee impact — to help organisers create more engaging, inclusive and future-proof events. Thanks to our friends at Jacobs Massey for their help recording these live podcasts. Find out more about their great work here: https://jacobsmassey.co.uk/ To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dixon sits down at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham with event lead Johanna Byrane to explore the venue's recent refurbishments, new on-site hotel and upgraded conference technology. The episode highlights flexible event spaces, pitch-side experiences including an alfresco auditorium, the World Rugby Museum, and practical advice for planners on collaborating with venues to create memorable events. Thanks to our friends at Jacobs Massey for their help recording these live podcasts. Find out more about their work here: https://jacobsmassey.co.uk/ To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.

James Dixon speaks with Penny Banks, Creative Director at GES, about the launch of Show Ready - The Edit, a curated range of four modular exhibition designs (Khan, Luter, Vico, Rho) aimed at the 30–50 sqm exhibition stand sweet spot. The episode covers the product’s circular design principles, recycled materials and integrated LED flooring, plus faster builds, configurable layouts and operational benefits for exhibitors and show organisers.

Recorded at Stream7 to mark Event Industry News’ 15th anniversary, this episode brings together event producers, staffing experts and broadcasters to share real-world stories and practical insights. Guests discuss Wildfire’s show‑stopping props (yes, hovercrafts), the role of temporary staff and people-first culture, and how production teams add value through problem‑solving and client focus. Conversation covers the technical side — live streaming, connectivity and production checks — alongside softer but crucial topics: wellbeing, inclusivity, teamwork and the power of adaptable, multi‑skilled crews. Listen for practical tips, examples of great on-site professionalism, and resources from Event Industry News and Stream7 for anyone involved in planning and running live events. To keep up to date with all the news, subscribe for free here. If you would like to take part in a podcast, then please complete our submission form.