Did I mention that I hate cold …?

As a card-carrying member of GRITS [Girls Raised in the South], that’s far more than an understatement. It’s the cold, hard truth. And now here I am just south of Santa’s Workshop and it’s time to buck up and make sure this program runs as smoothly as a glacier’s surface.

Due to a previous work commitment, I hadn’t been the one to do the site visit, so this was my first time in the Land of the Midnight Sun, but I’d prepared. Oh yeah, I had certainly prepared. I spent half the cost of a gilded ballroom overlooking the South Lawn on cold weather outerwear, including pieces with built-in heating elements, so I was ready for Mother Nature to give me her best shot.

Turns out I was overprepared. Yes, you read that right, overprepared. The weather was actually quite comfortable and one day it reached 45 degrees. And did I also mention I was so pleasantly surprised with the whole Icelandic experience that I’d go back in a heartbeat? This time a bit wiser, more open-minded, and traveling lighter [maybe].

Ideal Size for an Incentive

The five-day, four-night incentive program included a grueling inbound flight, a red-eye with one stop and a mid-morning arrival in Keflavik. Fortunately, 90% of our travelers were aboard the same flight, so coordinating ground transportation at the airport went smoothly.

We had 50 incentive winners and their guests for a total of 100 people; in my mind, the ideal size for an incentive there. Not too big, not too small. I would estimate each person had an average of three bags, counting checked and carry-ons. Since one full program day would be lost to travel, we were not going to waste time getting activities started.

While our guests were off to their first excursion directly from the airport, checked luggage was being delivered to the Hilton Parliament in downtown Reykjavík. There, it would be off-loaded and room-dropped which, of course, is a really nice, personal touch but one that comes with plenty of chaos and confusion if not managed correctly. Spoiler alert…We nailed it!

One hundred guests x two checked bags each = 200 opportunities to mess up. Because we had done extensive pre-planning with the hotel and mailed out luggage tags in advance, every piece of luggage was clearly identified. Not one item slept at the airport and not one item missed its room target. In my book, that’s a small miracle.

Back to our activities …

In our Know Before You Go packet that was mailed out weeks in advance, we clearly communicated all the super-important “stuff” you needed to be aware of to head off any issues or misunderstandings. One item was right there, front and center, in large bold red type:

PACK YOUR SWIMSUIT IN YOUR CARRY-ON BECAUSE WE ARE

GOING DIRECTLY TO SKY LAGOON FROM THE AIRPORT.

Much as I like to pull rabbits outta hats, I have not discovered a way to manifest a bunny with the cutest swimsuit in just your size if the one you brought is inside a room-dropped bag back at the hotel. We had a few of those, unfortunately. If your eyes don’t hit that page of the pre-mailer, well …

Sky vs. Blue

Blue Lagoon, with its milky-blue geothermal seawater in the middle of a lava field, is often called one of the “wonders of the world” and is the iconic lagoon most international travelers know. What they may not know is there are no private changing areas so it’s a bona fide “gang’s all here”, awkward ceremony before entering the waters. No, thank you.

Thus, we shuttled 45 minutes to Sky Lagoon where we’d reserved private changing rooms. On the edge of Reykjavík, Sky is a newer, oceanfront lagoon known for its dramatic infinity-edge pool over the North Atlantic and seven-step sauna/steam experience called The Skjol Ritual: lagoon, cold plunge, sauna, cold mist, body scrub, steam room, and a finishing drink made from local crowberries, a mild, slightly tart beverage apparently all the rage with crows everywhere. [A splash of Prosecco would’ve been interesting.]

We’d arrived at Sky Lagoon a band of completely drained travelers after the overnight, inbound flight but, truly, once you immerse yourself in the full experience of the lagoon, you are magically refreshed. The feeling of rejuvenation is extraordinary and suddenly our weary bunch was ready to take on Reykjavík.

As a side note, I was able to sample Sky Lagoon to indulge myself in five of the seven steps of the steam-sauna experience. [No surprise, I passed on the cold plunge and cold mister.] It was wonderful. I was also able to test the Blue Lagoon to do a good comparison and, honestly, I wouldn’t do Blue Lagoon again. It felt like a big, cloudy swimming pool. The only thing special was the Mask Bar, which offered multi-level, pricey mask treatments including silica mud, algae, lava scrub, and mineral masks. I was glad I’d experienced it, but I wouldn’t do it again. Is the water blue? Yes, it is. My vote goes to Sky Lagoon.

Parliament vs. Geysir

If I were to do another program in Reykjavík, I would absolutely return to the Hilton Parliament. The location simply can’t be beaten. It’s walkable to restaurants and shops along the waterfront, whale watching, and a large, inviting public park; the kind of city experience where you can browse a bookstore by day and enjoy a bar [or two] by night. [Pro tip: Find the bookstore that turns into a bar at night.] Downtown has a lot of nightlife and well-lit city streets, so it’s a safe location.

The hotel’s décor is classically Scandinavian — minimalist, neat, and clean but definitely elevated. Bathrooms are quite large and modern. Many of our guests said they slept with windows open at night to take in the refreshing air.

As a contrast, Hotel Geysir is out in the countryside where there’s virtually no light pollution. At the right time of year, this optimizes the viewing experience if you’re fortunate to catch the Aurora Borealis. April is typically not Northern Lights season, but I did see them on the two nights I cast eyes to the sky, once in each city. Hotel Geysir, too, is a genuinely nice, new property that broadens the incentive experience by offering a non-urban perspective on Iceland.

“Hot Dog!”

Along the way, our group experienced puffins, several whale species, a tasty dine-around, a popular glacier, and Icelandic hot dogs. Apparently, after traveling to the base of a glacier in a very cool vehicle with monster tires then snowmobiling to the top and back down again, it’s tradition to enjoy hot dogs. Now, my idea of F&B planning for a corporate group does not typically include this children’s menu item, vegetable soup, and meat soup, but our group absolutely loved it. And I must say the hot dogs were quite good.

The people of Iceland were very genuine and kind wherever we went, but when traveling be aware this is a non-tipping culture. Iceland is, for all practical purposes, a cashless society, and even the guys manning the hot dog stands along the street expect you to use a credit card or tap-to-pay. In a restaurant, your server may appreciate the extra cash, but tipping at the levels we do here in the States is frowned upon by locals who really don’t want to have to do the same. Tipping can be seen as a forced culture shift, an attempt to Americanize their European ways.

Don’t feel bad, you’ve already paid a handsome fee for your meal. Iceland is whatever the opposite of comfortably affordable is. It is incredibly expensive. One day, my lead meeting planner and I went out for a burger and a beer. Two burgers, two beers, $72. [See, you really don’t have to feel guilty about not tipping!] On another day, I ordered a burrito bowl, something that would’ve run about $8 back home. When I looked at my credit card statement, it was the equivalent of $46. Ouch!

After the program concluded, I had one big takeaway. There must be stars within the Northern Lights because they certainly aligned for us. Occasionally, I have days in this madness we call meeting and event planning when I think, “I don’t get paid enough to put up with this.” The glorious week I spent in Iceland was a week when I thought, “I can’t believe I get paid to do this!”

Everything ran as smoothly as a glacier’s surface, especially with the “snow boots on the ground” local knowledge and guidance shared by the amazing Sandra and Karolina of Iceland Travel … and this warm-weather girl had zero problems with the elements! Bottom line, my closet is fully stocked with cold-weather attire, and I’m ready to use it again!

Skal!  [Cheers! in Icelandic.]

Julie Thompson-Whelan

The post I Learned Not to Turn a Cold Shoulder Toward Iceland … appeared first on dynami.

Whether it’s a product launch, leadership retreat, Town Hall, strategy summit, or national sales meeting, corporate gatherings find themselves in a brighter spotlight and, as a result, are more vulnerable these days. Stakeholders are still expected to deliver great content, execute logistics smoothly, and generate a high level of engagement but they’re just as focused on making employees feel comfortable and safe while onsite. That’s why more planners are:

Bringing security into initial planning discussions versus treating it as an afterthought.

Treating security spending as essential to risk management and employee trust, not just a “nice if we can afford it” line item.

Creating a security plan from an attendee’s perspective, asking, “Does this feel reassuring or intrusive?

The goal isn’t to create a hyper-controlled Fort Knox environment. The goal is to create enough safety so people relax, participate fully, and focus on the purpose of the meeting.

When Physical and Digital Converge

For internal events, the boundary between physical and digital security has all but disappeared. On the physical side, you’re still dealing with familiar questions:

• Who’s allowed into which spaces, and how do you verify that?
• How will people move between general sessions, breakouts, and social functions without bottlenecks?
• Where and how should security staff be visible so they’re reassuring, not intimidating?

On the digital side, there’s a new layer of exposure:

• Senior leaders often have a public profile that makes them more vulnerable to targeting. [Consider the horrific tragedy of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson.]
• Business sessions often address highly sensitive topics you don’t want leaking.
• Hybrid formats, event apps, Wi-Fi networks, and collaboration tools all introduce potential openings for misuse. [A rodent is always seeking an opening, same thing for someone with nefarious intentions.]

For planners and internal clients, the best approach is to treat the above as one integrated challenge. Room layouts, access points, communications, and tech choices should all be designed with a single question in mind: “How do we protect our people and information while keeping the atmosphere open and welcoming?”

A Planner-Friendly Structure for Internal Events

Here are seven simple ways to create a solid security plan for your next corporate meeting or event:

#1 Align Risk Early

Invite stakeholders who understand the content and the risk; specifically, meeting host[s], corporate security, risk management, IT/cyber, HR, and the planning team. Together, clarify:

• Who will be in attendance [employees only, leadership, external guests, board members]?
• What level of confidentiality the agenda carries.
• Where the event will take place — onsite at HQ, offsite locally, or in another city/country.
• How visible the event might be outside the organization [media interest, social media buzz, investor or activist attention].

From there, you can agree on a realistic risk profile and the level of security needed [using a scale of 1-5 with 5 being riskiest helps], avoiding either an overreaction or underpreparing.

#2 Make Access Feel Smooth, Not Strict

For internal gatherings, access control is a big part of the experience. Planned and executed well, the security structure is virtually invisible to attendees. They simply sense that things are well organized and flowing smoothly. It’s important to consider:

• Credentials and IDs that are easy to read but don’t feel heavy-handed.
• Check-in processes that move quickly and feel like a warm welcome, not a TSA line.
• Clear distinctions between common areas and restricted areas [executive sessions, green rooms, production areas] so staff aren’t constantly forced into awkward “you can’t be here” moments.

#3 Build a Practical Safety Backbone

Every event needs a basic safety framework the client can understand and support. Planners must work with internal security and the event venue to define:

• Evacuation procedures and exit routes.
• Who has authority to make decisions if a threat emerges.
• How urgent messaging reaches attendees [text alerts, app notifications, announcements, etc.].

Translate this into a short note in pre-event communications [basically, a helpful “heads up!”]. You should also do a quick refresher/orientation delivered by the event host or emcee at the onset of your program [“OK, everyone, here’s what to know in the event we need to… ”]. You might also discreetly place signage that reinforces the plan without creating a sense of imminent peril. Your tone in all cases must be calm and matter-of-fact to ensure you come across as caring for people, not scaring them.

#4 Treat Digital Exposure as Part of the Event

It’s easy to focus on doors and badges and forget about what’s happening online. Yes, for an internal event, this seems like overkill. And it is … until you experience your first cyber emergency that could’ve been detected and headed off with a little advance sleuthing. It sucks. Yes to that, too. But that’s today’s world. Make sure you:

• Coordinate with IT on secure platforms for registration, streaming, and content sharing.
• Agree on guidelines for photos, social media posts, and sharing speaker-support imagery or A-V recordings — especially if sensitive material will be discussed and/or shown.
• Ensure Wi‑Fi networks, event apps, and other tools meet the necessary level of confidentiality.

For senior leadership and board settings, it can be worth having company and venue security quietly review what’s publicly visible about key figures and travel patterns around your event dates, particularly when traveling to unfamiliar venues or markets, or areas of political/civil unrest.

#5 Equip Your Team to Respond Calmly

Your planning team and on-site staff inevitably become your first point-of-contact when something feels “off.” Give them:

• A simple overview of emergency procedures and a list of who to call for what.
• Encouragement to remain composed and reassuring, even when relaying difficult information.
• Instructions for concerns [i.e., someone is in a restricted area, suspicious behavior, or health issue].

They don’t need to be experts in security; they just need to know their role and work the Emergency Plan you’ve so carefully curated.

#6 Talk About Security in Human Terms

Executives and employees alike pick up on the tone you use around safety. Helpful approaches include:

• Framing security as part of taking care of people: “We’ve built in some additional safety measures so you can focus fully on the meeting.”
• Keeping language straightforward and non-alarmist.
• Emphasizing the important balance of security and a positive attendee experience.

The aim is to build trust. When people sense that you’ve thought ahead and taken reasonable precautions, they’re much more likely to relax and immerse themselves in the event experience.

#7 Learn from Every Gathering

Once your event has adjourned, doing a short debrief with client, planners and other relevant partners can be incredibly valuable. Do it ASAP when observations are still fresh and haven’t had a chance to drift away into wherever quickly fading memories go. Discuss:

• How did attendees seem to feel [i.e., relaxed and light or tense, concerned and/or confused].
• Whether check-in, wayfinding, transitions between sessions, exit flows, etc. caused any issues.
• Any actual incidents or close calls, and how well they were handled.
• What you’d repeat, refine, or remove for the next internal gathering.

Final Thoughts …

For hosts and planners of corporate meetings, the real measure of success is simple: Do people feel comfortable enough to be fully present? Keep this in mind as you curate and implement your security plan.

It’s unfortunate but reality is we live in uncomfortable times. A rock-solid security plan is now just as much of a priority as location/venue, meeting space, AV, content and F&B. A trusted, high-quality, local security company who knows and understands the area is an invaluable partner. Yes, it adds costs but the cost of something traumatic or tragic is far steeper.

Consider it an investment in your goals and objectives. When security is thoughtfully integrated, attendees don’t walk away talking about guard posts or badge checks, they speak enthusiastically about fresh messaging, new connections, and personal/company momentum.

Planned and executed well, a security plan becomes the quiet foundation for all aspects of your program to shine … including you!

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Security Plans for Corporate Events Are No Longer Optional appeared first on dynami.

Like any seemingly overwhelming task – cleaning a cluttered basement, preparing your taxes, or changing your eating habits – the key is to just get started. [Remember those lessons about eating an elephant or moving your cheese?] But where do you start?

The best way to identify the perfect motivational speaker is to start with your event’s desired outcome and your audience, then match a speaker whose story, style, expertise and messaging directly support your organization’s goals. When you get that alignment right, the keynote becomes a catalyst instead of just a “that was fun” presentation.

Many a client has paid handsomely for a big-splash celebrity who does a superb job of entertaining, taking selfies and signing autographs but probably really doesn’t understand the inner machinations of the business world and your organizations challenges. If you’re looking for strong ROI, this is not where you start.

Here are four key steps to whittle down a broad array of speaker options to the one speaker who’s most likely to inform, inspire and motivate your audience in a way that lasts long after program adjournment and travel home.

Start with Strategy

Before you hit “play” on the first speaker demo link, be crystal clear on what success will look like for your program. This clarity will guide every decision that follows. Ask yourself:

• What key business challenge or opportunity are we seeking to address [i.e., morale, change, growth, culture, sales push, etc.]?
• What are three key takeaways we want our people to remember six months from now?
• Are we seeking behavior change, a mindset shift, skill development, pure inspiration [or a mix of all]?
• How will we know our speaker “hit the mark” [feedback, engagement, post-event actions]?

Know Your Audience

The same speaker can knock it out of the park with one audience … but fall flat with another. Analyze and create an audience profile before you shortlist anyone. Consider things like:

• Audience Makeup: Executives vs. frontline workers, tech folks vs. sales, a mixed audience, etc.
• Demographics/Culture: Age range, gender balance, cultural backgrounds, sensitive topics.
• Energy Level and Format: Is this a morning opener or after-lunch slot, large group or intimate retreat.
• What is our audience tired of hearing and what type of messaging would feel fresh and credible?

Evaluate Speaker Fit

Once you’ve clarified your goals and created an audience profile, look for a speaker whose content, story, and delivery align with those needs. Consider the speaker’s:

• Relevant experience and expertise in leadership, resilience, innovation, sales, change, etc.
• Authentic personal stories that connect to real-world challenges, not dishing out generic clichés.
• Stage presence [Do they exude confidence, credibility and authenticity; will they engage your group?
• Willingness to tailor personal anecdotes, language/tone, and make references to your organization.
• Evidence of success [testimonials from similar groups, videos, repeat bookings, etc.]

Focus on Fit, Not Flash

Too many get this entirely backwards. To avoid falling into that trap …

• Assess Speaker Style: Are they high-octane or reflective? Which is the better fit for your group?
• Is the speaker’s manner, messaging and energy a good fit not just for your audience but also the assigned timeslot?
• Prioritize speakers who ask smart questions about your audience and customize their messaging.
• Land on a balance of long-lasting inspiration, actionable ideas, and practical next steps for attendees.
• Verify Professionalism [i.e.,, responsiveness, clarity on fees/logistics, willingness to collaborate.
• Integrity/Authenticity [in other words, someone who lives their message, and doesn’t just perform it].
• Are they “Keynote only”, or willing to add Q&A, a “fireside chat”, a workshop, or follow-up breakout?
• Will they integrate your organization’s leadership, values, and current priorities into the talk?
• Assess Potential Long-Term Impact: Will the speaker’s message be memorable months from now?

When you approach your search this way — Strategy first, Audience second, Speaker third — you dramatically increase your odds of finding the right speaker to not only energize and inspire, but to advance your business goals objectives. As a bonus, here are three speakers dynami has recently used that were a perfect fit for each audience:

MATTHEW EMERZIAN

Former senior music industry executive who worked with major artists like U2, Coldplay, and Avril Lavigne before a personal crisis led him to found Every Monday Matters and become a leading voice on belonging and purpose, and emphasizing his core message that Everyone Matters. Today, Emerzian is a four-time bestselling author whose keynotes help people and organizations embrace the message You Matter as a mindset that transforms culture, leadership, and everyday life.

https://www.matthewemerzian.com

JOHNNY “CUPCAKES” EARLE

Founder of Johnny Cupcakes, the “world’s first T‑shirt bakery,” a food-themed apparel brand he grew from a joke on a shirt into a multimillion-dollar cult favorite known for limited-edition drops, customers camping out for releases, and even thousands of fans with his logo tattooed on their bodies. [That’s where I draw the line!] As a keynoter, “Cupcakes” shares high-energy, story-driven lessons on brand loyalty, creating unforgettable customer experiences, and using surprise, delight, and relentless experimentation to turn customers into passionate fans.

https://johnnycupcakes.com

FRANK RUSSO

Eight-time Inc. 500 entrepreneur, technology innovator, and author who has built, scaled, and exited companies across multiple industries, including founding the AI-driven customer experience platform 360CXM. As a keynote speaker, Russo focuses on unlocking “limitless growth” by helping leaders reconnect with their organization’s Core Purpose, embrace their unique “weird,” and use authenticity, creativity, and selfless leadership to bust out of stagnation and create cultures in which people love what they do.

https://frankie-russo.com

If you feel like you’re sailing rudderless in a sea of so many options, dynami is here you help you identify and go to contract with the right and perfect speaker for your upcoming corporate meeting or event.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Simplifying the Task of Finding the Right Speaker [Plus a Bonus!] appeared first on dynami.

Venezuelan dictator Nicholás Maduro was captured in a raid by U.S. troops in Caracas in early-January, sparking extreme violence and mayhem in the South American capital.

The killing of drug kingpin “El Mencho” led to Cartel-fueled violence and destruction that has robbed the spirit of party/resort town Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.

And more recently, U.S.-Israeli air strikes on Iran eliminated a sinister ruling regime, but prompted retaliatory air strikes across a dozen countries in the surrounding Gulf region. Closer to home, a mass shooting at a popular Austin, TX nightspot three days ago killed three [including the gunman], injured 14 more, and appears to be connected to the US-Israel assault on Iran. In December and January, civil unrest rocked Minneapolis for the second time in six years.

In all of these occurrences, shops, restaurants, conference facilities, and tourist hotel properties or gathering spots were negatively impacted, whether operationally, structurally or both.

If you have strong Force Majeure language in your contract, you have options.

If you have generalized Force Majeure language in your contract, you may have no options.

It’s all up to you and your level of skill and insight when it comes to crafting contractual language that factors in all negative potentialities beyond your control and/or the control of the venue you’re utilizing.

I’ll leave the moral/political right-or-wrong of these events to others to debate at another time. I am 100% focused on the reality these situations put upon those of us who toil in the world of events. Our entire industry experienced the importance of Force Majeure language during the pandemic and 25 years ago in the horrific aftermath of 9-11. Now, it seems, we’re fully back in the fray.

One thing we can all agree on is that’s it’s more important than ever to be hyper-vigilant and pro-actively protective when planning a corporate meeting or event, especially in an offshore location where instability is more likely than what we’re accustomed to in America … typically. Unfortunately, these are not typical times.

It’s high time to double-down on protections.

Let’s dust off your understanding of Force Majeure …

Force Majeure [French for “superior force”] is a legal term used in contracts for unexpected, uncontrollable events – such as wars, terrorist attacks, civil disturbances, natural disasters, major strikes, or government shutdowns — that make it impossible for one or both parties to successfully execute what the contract states. When a Force Majeure clause kicks in, it can temporarily or permanently excuse the affected party or parties from liability for not performing, as long as the unexpected event was beyond their control and not caused by their own negligence.

Elements of a strong Force Majeure clause

Generally speaking, qualifying events for a Force Majeure clause fall in three categories: Natural disasters, government actions, and human conflicts. But beware of generic, open-to-ambiguity wording that can be interpreted differently by affected parties [or the court system]. Specificity, and factoring in benchmarks and official declarations are imperative to avoid any confusion.

For instance, do not utilize generic, under-one-umbrella wording like “acts of God” without itemizing potential occurrences such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, lightning strikes, wildfires, avalanches, mudslides, storms, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, etc. For public health emergencies, include widespread disease outbreaks, epidemics, pandemics, quarantines, shortages of medical supplies, inadequate numbers of medical professionals, etc.

Human/government-related items should also be very specific, including declaration of war, terrorism, civil unrest, foreign invasion, hostilities, riots, rebellion, sabotage, embargoes, blockades, trade restrictions, newly enacted laws impacting your contract after signing, local/state emergency orders, national emergencies, etc. Labor disruptions should be listed such as strikes, lockouts, factory closures, labor stoppages, etc. Local infrastructure considerations such as fire, explosion, power/transport shortages, communication infrastructure breakdowns, transportation shutdowns by official order, etc.

These lists are typically tagged at the end of the clause with catch-all language such as “or other events beyond reasonable control” in the event a circumstance occurs that wasn’t listed but clearly imperiled and impacted your program.

Force Majeure simply cannot be left open to interpretation. If you opt to cancel your program due to an unforeseen significant event but did not have strong language and clarifying standards in place, you risk losing your entire, significant investment. Contractual wording must be very, very specific with benchmarks and criteria built in such as official declaration[s] or state-of-emergency announcements issued by municipal, state and/or federal authorities.

Lean on your meeting planning partner to help guide you through contract negotiation – including strong Force Majeure wording – and don’t leave yourself financially exposed. Our team at dynami is always here to assist.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post It’s High Time to Double-Down on Protections! appeared first on dynami.

I recently came across the results of a 2025 Gallup Poll in which respondents were queried about the importance of praise and recognition at home, in the workplace, and when they’re out and about interacting with others.

It found people who receive regular, sincere, high-quality praise and recognition are significantly more engaged, motivated, and loyal to their organizations, their relationships, and their personal goals. In the workplace, employees who are well-recognized are 45% less likely to leave their jobs, and when recognition is added to the mix, it bumps that retention number up to 65%. Clearly, praise and recognition deepen a person’s commitment to an organization and its culture, individual life goals, and interpersonal relationships.

Honestly, I wouldn’t call this a news flash but I do think the findings serve as a great reminder and reinforcement of what most of us probably already knew but, maybe, don’t put into action on a regular basis. But I wonder … do we [including me] seize opportunities to praise and recognize someone for over-and-above efforts and for reaching key milestones along their personal journeys? I’m not talking about going overboard with excessive quantities of praise because that, like anything, very quickly gets stale and ineffective. I’m talking about quality praise and recognition, the type that flows from one heart and touches another.

Consistently over the decades, research has come to the following conclusions about the positive effects of praise and recognition:

• Boosts confidence and extends motivation — Receiving earned praise confirms the value of one’s actions and encourages further effort and growth.
• Improves attitude and mental health — Focusing on strengths and recognizing accomplishments helps reduce stress, anxiety, and negativity by shifting attention to positive pursuits and away from problems which often garner more focus and attention than they rightfully deserve.
• Enhances and strengthens social bonds — Offering praise builds trust, respect, and a sense of belonging in relationships, whether personal, professional, or social. Recognition before others turbo-charges this effect.
• Encourages resilience — Acknowledging and recognizing progress during challenges cultivates a positive mindset and a greater commitment to persevering in spite of headwinds and difficulties.

When recognition is built into workplace culture, engagement levels rise by nearly 32%, driving higher morale, productivity, and collaboration among teams. In fact, companies with robust recognition programs see up to 40% lower turnover, illustrating how appreciation not only rewards effort but also reinforces positive behaviors that align with organizational values.

We have one client who invites all 750 of its employees to a local convention center for a program that honors their top 10-15 performers. This company-wide recognition fosters respect, strengthens the organization’s cultural bonds, and catalyzes motivation. “What if I was one of those people called onstage next year …?”

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Small ways to reward performance include verbal praise in meetings, personalized thank-you notes, or social media shoutouts acknowledging good work. Recently, one of our dynami team members did an exceptional job on something and she was rewarded with a dozen tasty cupcakes which had the desired effect of making her feel special. And isn’t that the point?

Other low-cost gestures might be offering a reserved parking spot for the month, a special lunch outing, or a gift card. By contrast, grand ways to reward performance involve higher investment in the individual, whether it’s a salary bump, an unscheduled bonus, elite professional training, additional Paid Time Off, or a mini-sabbatical. And of course, there’s always the opportunity to reward them with a President’s Club slot and send them, along with other high-achieving peers, to a sun-and-sand location, a luxury dude ranch, or travel to someplace offshore and exotic.

Words Matter …

Not to be a chest-thumper but I’d like to brag a bit about the dynami team. Recently, I received the below note from the CEO of a client, commending our onsite Production Team after a well-executed program. It read:

Hi there,

I just want to take a moment to say thank you for the truly outstanding job you did bringing this year’s conference to life. From the earliest planning stages to the very last session, every detail reflected your hard work, creativity, and commitment to excellence. You handled every moving piece — and there were many! — with grace, teamwork, and heart. The result was an event that not only ran seamlessly but left our entire community inspired, connected, and proud to be part of something so special. I keep getting “best conference ever”.

Thank you again for your talent, your teamwork, and for always going above and beyond! If you can please share this with the rest of your team that was there, I would greatly appreciate it! I know we will be in touch soon.

One-hundred and thirty-four words. But to me, and to the entire dynami team, it felt like a million bucks!

Never overlook the opportunity to share praise and/or recognize another when the situation merits. You never know how much a few well-chosen, heartfelt words of praise, or a moment of recognition in front of peers, will mean to another person today, tomorrow, even many, many years from now when they reflect on their careers. And ultimately, you, will likely be rewarded with a happier, more loyal, and even higher-achieving team member.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post In Praise of Praise and Recognition appeared first on dynami.

Ruiz’ book sold more than 15 million copies in the U.S. and stayed on The New York Times Best-Seller list for more than a decade. In summary, it says the key to harmony and happiness is to:

• Be impeccable with your word by speaking truthfully and kindly.
• Take nothing personally because others’ actions reflect themselves, not you.
• Make no assumptions. Instead, communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
• Always, always do your best, understanding that your best may vary day to day but doing so fosters self-respect and growth.

While cynics may roll their eyes and call this an oversimplification, I ask, “Is it?” Maybe happiness in life is that simple. And taking this thought process a bit further, maybe the key to more engaging, collaborative and productive business meetings – whether they occur on a handful of screens across a vast Zoom or Teams network, or with hundreds of folks gathered in a large conference hall – is the application of these very same principles.

A Different “Take”

An interesting perspective popped into my LinkedIn feed recently. Thomas Lahnthaler, who calls himself an “intentional unconventionalist,” posted that he’s against ground rules or agreements in group settings. His take? They only help the facilitator, not the people in the room. Agree with him or not, his perspective pushes one to pause for a moment and rethink things. I did and I came to the conclusion that I simply don’t agree with his statement. [Call me an “intentional conventionalist”, I guess.]

Where I think he misses the mark, despite a litany of people cheering his post on, is that it’s often the spoken or implied rules and guidelines — the “agreements” — that keep people between the navigational beacons and lessens the likelihood of some flying off-topic or off-task. There’s a reason why interstates are lined by directional signs, posted speed-limits, and overhead readerboards. Without these, especially in today’s often frantic, too-quick-to-confront society, our highways would devolve into demolition derbys in no time. With all due respect to Mr. Lahnthaler, it’s these very “agreements” that lead to successful business sessions. Let’s take a closer look …

Start with “Why Are We Here?”

I know it sounds as obvious as pumpkin spice this time of year but leaders, presenters and facilitators of business sessions should always kick off any group work by answering the obvious but often disregarded questions:

• Why are we meeting?
• What do we hope to accomplish?
• How much time do we have to do it?

Establishing an “end game” up-front helps people use their time well and actually gain something from being together. How can that happen unless we’re clear – every single person — on expectations? It also helps to know who will be there, what issues are already on their minds, and what outcomes matter most to them. Oftentimes, people come from different backgrounds and don’t yet realize certain agreements exist. That’s when you get pushback, frustration, or flat-out resistance. Setting those boundaries [“agreements”], stating them, and creating a common platform or environment that works for everyone is not just useful, it’s essential.

The Invisible Agreements We All Carry

Think about it: Normal, everyday conversation relies on unspoken agreements. We just don’t consciously think about them or state them up-front when we chat with a spouse, a friend, a co-worker, or a neighbor. It’s understood — we all use a common language, we’re typically polite, listening is a give-and-take, and if the other party opens up, we’re more likely to do the same. All this is wrapped in respect. But when assumptions don’t line up, things can go downhill quickly.

Now scale that up to a whole group, and suddenly you’re knee-deep in misunderstandings, biases and close-mindedness that could have easily been avoided. And that’s precisely why establishing these agreements up-front is so important. It’s not about rules to restrain people, it’s about creating an environment in which all may contribute and, more importantly, benefit.

What Agreements Actually Do

Agreements don’t instantly make everyone safe or comfortable. But they do make it far more likely that people will speak up and participate, and stay on-topic and on-task. For the more timid, it reassures them they won’t be shut down and their voice will matter just as much as the more verbose players who will hijack sessions if given a hint of an opening. It also means people are more likely to wait their turn to speak and not talk over other each other, keeping the session from slip-siding into the ugliness of a Congressional hearing. I’ve seen meetings turn around dramatically with just one or two solid agreements stated up front. Something simple like, “Let’s hear first from people who haven’t spoken yet” can change the whole vibe of a conversation.

Why It Ultimately Matters

After several decades in the business, I still find people are inclined to invest a lot more time, energy and concern up-front on logistical matters before ever getting around to the goals, objectives, substance and the agreements for each session. Yes, securing the right venue in the right city on the right dates, easy airlift, food & beverage, etc. are all important but so, too, is the structure, tone, content and guidelines for each session.

Is it time to take a new look at how your next program should be designed and executed, with one eye focused on logistical priorities early in the process, while the other is also focused on messaging, style, structure and session “agreements”? When both are prioritized early in the planning process, the likelihood of success skyrockets.

If you find yourself struggling with this, or you simply want to brainstorm a new and effective way to execute your next program, give us a call. We’d love to help you out.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Establishing ‘Agreements’ Up-Front Can Propel Your Next Program to Success appeared first on dynami.

Given all this, it’s probably time to strap on a pair of futuristic lenses and take a fresh look at the role of corporate meeting and event themes.

Are they necessary?

Are they helpful?

Are they misused?

Yes, yes and yes. No, no and no. It just depends on how savvy you are when it comes to theming your programs.

If you’ve been in this business for more than a handful of years, no doubt you’ve seen the aging out of once edgy themes – Above & Beyond, In It to Win It, Unleash the Power, and S.O.A.R as an acronym with four cleverly selected payoff words as a tagline. And don’t forget the cringe-worthy, sing-songy Teamwork Makes the Dream Work. [Pardon me while I barf …]

Like CD players and Blackberry devices, these once useful creative executions now gather rust and dust atop the heap of hackneyed meeting branding with an afterlife of sleep-inducing boredom. The world has changed. The world is changing still. And it’s important to re-examine why we theme our programs, how pithy phraseology can actually catalyze excitement, and the various ways you can leverage your chosen theme to maximize impact.

Without Question, Meetings Are Back

Corporations are holding more programs than ever and the global events industry is on track to grow from $1.227 trillion in 2024 to $1.347 trillion in 2025, according to a LinkedIn Survey conducted earlier this year. It found:

• 66% of corporate event planners have scheduled more events in 2025, up from 41% in 2023.
• In-person meetings are leading this growth, favored by 59% of respondents, citing the importance of human connections and immersive experiences.
• 86.4% of organizers plan to maintain or increase the number of in-person events in 2026 and beyond.

So it is 99.99% likely you’re going to be brainstorming themes for upcoming events. But first …

Theming 101

Treat your theming as you would your site selection process, menu planning, and your messaging priorities. All require deep due-diligence and thoughtful consideration before making your best decision. After all, you must bake the cake before you can ice it.

• Identify your program’s purpose and objectives. — What do you hope to achieve? Who’s your target audience? What topics are foremost in their minds right now? The answers will help narrow your options and ultimately ensure your selected theme aligns with your event goals.
• Research industry trends and hot topics. — Look for what’s shifting, changing and emerging in your industry. Where are the challenges and opportunities? What are the latest innovations and best practices? Timely/relevant themes spark interest and engagement.
• What are the most pressing needs and interests of your audience? Where do they need the most help and support? What tools are they asking for to execute their jobs more efficiently and successfully? What new skills will they need to face a changing industry powerfully and successfully?

Only after addressing these questions is it time to get creative and strategic with your theming. Your final step is to brainstorm 4-5 theme options and ultimately land on the right and perfect choice that honors your answers to the questions above, and can be engagingly executed in your various theme graphics [i.e., web/app, speaker support, video/animation, print, signage, apparel, amenities, etc.]

Be free-thinking, contemporary and don’t just think outside the box, crush that box and swing the door wide open to all options. Best to start bold and rein back in as necessary. Something seemingly silly or outrageous may easily be refined to perfectly suit your program and audience. Make a list of any and all brainstormed themes then rate them based on relevance, timeliness, energy level, and impact [the ability to inspire your attendees]. You may even be able to marry two of your final options into a single theme.

Consider sharing your top 2-3 finalists with key stakeholders and a handful of non-stakeholders who will likely give you the most candid feedback. Gather this feedback and use it to cull your list. Take a final vote and, voila, there’s your theme. Taking the time to step through this process will help your find the best theme possible and keep you from defaulting to old but weary themes like the ones listed above.

Finally, here are five edgy, contemporary theme options for your consideration:

INNOVATION | DISRUPTION — Focuses your program on truly bold new ideas and actions that shake up industries, move beyond the status quo, and redefine success and what it will take to achieve it. Sessions could highlight tech disruptors, focus on a culture of innovation and brilliant thinking, and inspire radical strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly changing industry. Sets the bar high when it comes to mindset and expectations.

BEYOND TOMORROW … TOGETHER – Addresses the cutting-edge, ever-evolving tech world we live in while maintaining an embrace of the all-important human-to-human connection. Success today and in the future demands a melding of both. You could use immersive experiences like AI-powered networking, holographic speakers, and ultra-modern, mind-blowing design elements to inspire forward-thinking discussions. Creates an arm-in-arm, in-lockstep mindset for your marketing, sales and ops teams as they prepare themselves for a bold new future.

OURS TO OWN – Answers the inspiring question we’ve all asked ourselves at one point or another: “Why not me? Why not now?” Imagine an audience of 300 sales reps who each embrace such a message, a powerful call-to-action. Catalyzes hope and belief that much is to be gained on a journey to remarkable achievements and rich rewards. Why not us …?

MICRO SHIFTS | MACRO RESULTS – Similar to James Clear’s key messaging in his best-seller Atomic Habits, this theme speaks to the transformative power of establishing small habits and taking a system-based approach to personal growth and behavioral change. Clear writes “small habits make a big difference”, emphasizing tiny, seemingly insignificant improvements, even as little as 1% each day. These efforts and daily micro-progress compound over time to create long-lasting, remarkable results.

BEYOND PRICE – THE TOTAL SELL — Price is always a sensitive issue that often makes or breaks a deal. But lowest price alone isn’t always the best option. No, the best option is greatest value, with pricing as a key component. It takes more than low-ball numbers. This theme encourages sales professionals to focus on all factors influencing customer decisions — quality, reliability, trust, service, support, loyalty and partnership. It demands a more nuanced understanding of the sales process and exposes areas needing improvement for each individual rep. Master this approach and you will sell effectively and successfully, build lasting relationships with customers, and drive mutual growth and profitability.

Hope you found this 5-minute refresher interesting and insightful. Our entire team at dynami is always here to help. Reach out today!

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Is It Time for a Refresher on Corporate Meeting Event Themes? appeared first on dynami.

I say, absolutely!

No doubt, you’ve heard all the AI hype and nervous buzz in everyday conversations and interactions. But like most people around you, you’re not exactly sure how it works and how it can be used productively and efficiently. Let’s try and get you over that fear-based, emotional hump.

First and foremost, as one AI expert recently said, AI isn’t looking to wipe out your job, it’s more accurately a valuable tool that empowers you to do your job better. The key is to test-drive various AI services and learn first-hand which AI offerings best serve you. [Key phrase: Serve you.]

AI adoption in everyday life — business and personal — is inevitable. And it’s happening at a rapid rate. Don’t be left sitting at the station asking, “Where’s my train?” That roaring sound … ? Yeah, that’s your train.

Why AI?

AI isn’t just for tech giants or sci-fi movies anymore. It’s rapidly transforming all industries, and event management and planning is no exception. The right AI tools will save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Imagine automating repetitive tasks, hyper-personalizing attendee experiences, and gaining real-time insights — all while freeing yourself up to focus on more gray-area, human matters that are above AI’s pay grade … so far. Specifically, I’m talking about you having more opportunity to be thoughtful and creative when it comes to crafting unique and memorable experiences for your attendees. It’s all about balancing powerful new tech with the irreplaceable human touch.

Let’s zoom in …

AI: MAKING MEETINGS BETTER FOR EVERYONE

Match Attendees with Similar Interests — One of the biggest challenges at large events is helping people connect in a meaningful way, something deeper than surface-level, drive-by interactions. AI can analyze attendee profiles, professional backgrounds, and even social media activity to suggest the best networking matches or sessions. Instead of leaving connections to chance, AI can help you help your attendees find their preferred “tribe” — making the event more valuable for everyone.

Answer FAQs Instantly — No more long lines at the info desk! AI-powered chatbots can answer attendee questions in real time, from When does the keynote start? to Where’s the nearest restroom? This means less confusion, more time for human-to-human engagement, and happier guests.

Personalize Event Journeys — Today’s attendees demand more than a one-size-fits-all experience. AI can create personalized schedules, recommend sessions, and even suggest lunch buddies based on interests and past behavior. In 2025 and beyond, hyper-personalization will be the norm, not the exception for top-quality corporate gatherings. Imagine an event app that dynamically updates recommendations as attendees move through your event, making each moment feel uniquely tailored to them.

AI: YOUR BEHIND-THE-SCENES ‘SUPERPOWER’

Real-Time Insights and Analytics — Ever wish you could see which sessions are most popular or which spaces at your venue are buzzing with activity? AI-powered platforms can provide live data on attendance, engagement, and more. This allows you to make adjustments on the fly – such as moving a popular workshop to a bigger room, or blasting e-reminders for under-attended sessions.

Optimize Scheduling and Logistics — Juggling speaker availability, venue capacity, and attendee preferences is Rubik’s-like. AI can analyze all these variables to help you create highly efficient schedules and manage logistics such as room assignments and ground transportation.

Content Creation and Targeted Messaging — Need catchy social media posts or compelling email copy? AI can generate creative content in seconds when you feed it accurate, relevant info. Repeat: When you feed it accurate, relevant info. It can also analyze demographics and past event data to help you target people, sessions and topics more effectively. That means higher attendance and more engaged participants in sessions that matter most to the individual.

Feedback Analysis – Traditional paper-based or digital/app-based post-event surveys can be gold mines for improvement, but sorting through all those numerical ratings and comments is cumbersome and a time vampire. Platforms like Zoho CRM can aggregate this input then automate communications, predict engagement, and offer actionable insights for future planning based on your group’s feedback. It quickly analyzes attendee responses, identifies trends, and highlights areas for enhancing future programs – keeping you on a continuous-improvement “Up” escalator and helping you shine before your company’s Leadership Team. [AI sounding a little friendlier to you now …?]

AI: WHAT’S HOT IN 2025?

Hyper-Personalization – Hyper-personalization is moving from a ‘nice-to-have’ dimension to an essential component of corporate meetings and events. Further, attendees expect real-time, dynamic adjustments to schedules and meaningful networking opportunities based on real-life behavior, skills and interests.

Sustainability – As audiences skew younger and younger, sustainability must be a priority to help you establish a connection based on one of their generation’s passion points. AI can help track carbon footprints, reduce waste, and optimize energy use. Tools like Sustainability Hub for Events [SHE] offer on-demand learning and resource-tracking to help you meet your event’s green goals.

Real-Time Translation — With larger, international audiences, communicating in a second language can obviously be a barrier. AI-powered solutions like Wordly offer real-time translation and captioning in more than 60 languages, making your event truly global — without the costly, logistical headache of hiring multiple interpreters.

AI: TAKING ‘THE PLUNGE’ AND EMBRACING IT WITH CONFIDENCE

Breathe. Relax … it’s natural to feel a bit hesitant about any powerful new tech. Many people, perhaps most, worry about risks and feel overwhelmed by all the AI service options. The key is to start small and focus on tools that genuinely fit your workflow — whether that’s automating registration, personalizing experiences, or analyzing post-event data. Or maybe all of the above [for you bolder types].

And if you’re still not ready to take the plunge, “test drive” a few AI services in your personal life so you better understand the structure and dynamics of each service. ChatGPT is a great tool that’s very user friendly and you quickly understand it begins as an inverted triangle and the more you ask it, the narrower its focus becomes. Your opening question or prompt will get you a top-line, broad overview of your topic. As you feed it additional questions and prompts on the same topic, it focuses more narrowly on the specific info you’re searching for.

It can also be more colorful and conversational in tone if you ask it to. Having trouble writing a 4-5-sentence thank you note for a special birthday gift you received? Tell AI what the gift was, who gave it to you, what it means to you, suggest a tone for it to be written in then ask AI to do the friendly scribing for you. Within seconds, voila, you have everything you need to write in your note. [But you’re still on the hook for postage.]

Another user-friendly AI service is Perplexity which delivers a more journalistic “5 Ws & H” response – Who, What, Where, When, Why & How. It also provides “citations” for each statement it makes so you can delve more deeply into the source of the info by clicking on the citation icon at the bottom of the response.

Whichever AI platform[s] you decide to experiment with, know that it’s always wise to double-check any facts or statements that seem dubious. After all, AI is simply aggregating any and all internet-based info on a topic and there’s solid, factual info out there as well as blatant untruths. Like all services, some are better and more reliable than others. It’s up to you to decide which AI platform[s] you’re most comfortable with and trust.

AI: YEAH BUT …

More than likely, your company’s leadership expects you to experiment with cutting-edge AI tools. Larger organizations with higher stakes and more dollars at risk may take a bit longer to adopt this new tech. Hey, be the AI Trailblazer in your company! Someone’s gotta step up, right? Either way, industries are undoubtedly moving forward with AI in the very, very near future and those who embrace it thoughtfully, effectively and more quickly will be the ones who take the lead in their respective sectors.

But what about “the human touch”? AI is powerful but, again, it’s not a replacement for human creativity, intuition, and connection, those “gray areas” that algorithms and meta-wizardry can’t replicate. Moving forward, the best designed and executed events will be those blending smart tech with authentic, personal experiences. Use AI to handle no-brainer, repetitive and data-heavy tasks, freeing you to focus on what you do best: Creating great content, meaningful moments and lasting memories.

AI isn’t about replacing you or what makes you skilled at your job, it’s about amplifying and enhancing your unique and special touch.

So … C’mon in, the water’s great!

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Meetings & Events: It’s Time to Cozy Up to AI. But How …? appeared first on dynami.

In days gone by, McDonald’s was the gold standard of fast food [long before Chick-fil-A exploded, that is]. You could stop in and find a clean store, friendly team members with smiling faces, and food that looked like it did in TV commercials and on billboards. And as I recall, it tasted pretty good, too. Ah, the good ol’ days!

In my most recent visit, we encountered a dirty store with tables uncleaned, trash cans overloaded, and the dining area looking like routine, periodic wipe-downs occurred every other day. Staff members [I wouldn’t even insert the word “team”] were rude. Lines were backed up and impatient customers were irate.

And all I wanted was two bottled waters!

Long story short, we did eventually get our bottled waters but I walked out the door knowing I will never return. In retrospect, it occurs to me that this experience is a microcosm of a much larger problem … service, quality and value in hospitality seem to have gone AWOL in America.

Yikes!

You may have seen the recent American Customer Satisfaction Index [ACSI] 2025 Travel Study which was released a few weeks back and reveals a notable, cross-the-board decline in customer satisfaction in major U.S. travel and hospitality sectors – airline, ground transportation, lodging, rideshare services, online travel agencies, etc. I’ll spare you the dismal details but suffice to say travelers are not very happy with how they’re being treated when they have to hit the road. [If you care to review the document in detail, I’ve included a link at the bottom of this blog.]

What’s going on out there …?

If you sense you’re getting less – less service, less reliability, less product – and paying more for it, you’re not alone. We’re all feeling it across so many sectors in our personal and professional lives. And certainly, the ASCSI study reflects that for those of us who toil in the vineyards of corporate meetings and events.

For example, in 2024, dynami produced a major event in Las Vegas and rigging costs were a little over $41,000. One year later, again in Las Vegas with the same client and the exact same rigging demands, our bill exceeded $68,000. A 60% increase in just 12 months!

Again, I ask, what’s going on out there?

Is it good ol’ fashioned supply and demand and we’re simply on the lesser end of the equation right now? Is it a widespread callousness brought on by pandemic fallout, political hostility, or hardening social norms? Maybe a combination of the above? Whatever the reason[s], it’s palpable and undeniable.

What can we do?

As planners, it’s obviously our responsibility to deliver the greatest possible value for every dollar that you, our client, chooses to spend. This has always been a point-of-pride for the dynami team. Our adrenaline rushes occur when we’ve delivered a compelling, creative and imaginative event that’s memorable for all, and we do it on time and on budget. We want you, the client, to be seen as a superstar by your peers when the event adjourns. For a planner, there is no greater high. Accomplishing this has always been a challenge but it’s incredibly more challenging in the current climate.

Alas, there’s a simple solution …

Go where you’re most wanted and work with people who truly want to work with you!

When you’re looking to book in high-demand cities like Orlando, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Nashville, Dallas, Chicago, etc., you find yourself over a barrel. Properties and local providers know they’re in great demand so they have the advantage of gravitating towards those willing to pay top-dollar for rooms, meeting space, AV, food and beverage, transpo, etc.

Look beyond the major city itself and research second- or third-tier cities in further reaches of the above-mentioned locations. For example Richardson or Fort Worth outside Dallas, or Coconut Point about 90 minutes from Orlando. Or seek out other mid-sized cities such as Huntsville, Charlotte, Louisville, Columbus OH, Pittsburgh or Milwaukee. dynami is currently researching several tier-2 and tier-3 cities for a client as greater-value alternatives to the pricier cities listed above. Costs will be much more manageable and service-providers more eager to please and willing to extend pricing that works within the confines of a tight budget.

When you do this, you quickly realize, like the planner, these properties and local providers want to put their best foot forward, not just cash a check. They’ll hustle for you and they typically have a mindset of “overdelivering”. The  level of teamwork and collaboration is also elevated because everyone operates as a project partner, not an in-demand provider. Needless to say, it makes for a far more enjoyable meeting/event experience for clients, attendees, planners, vendors and venues.

Go Beyond …

And if you’re researching sites for international programs or unique incentives, expand your search beyond the obvious. Consider offshore destinations like Vietnam or Cambodia that offer great value and are equally as exotic and beautiful as many of the more well-traveled locations. Also for incentives, look beyond the knee-jerk sun/sand/surf options and check out states like Montana, Utah, Wyoming and South Carolina. The American West and the Carolina Lowcountry are both spectacular and deliver an experience unique to those of us who live and work primarily in major cities on the East Coast or in the Midwest.

Take heart, rising costs and lower levels of service can be combatted. These days, you will find the greatest value by expanding your choices and taking roads less traveled. It is there where you will find service, pricing and quality like we were accustomed to in days gone by.

And one last note, be strategic in the structure of your agenda. Consider eliminating mid-conference “dark days” and load out a day early in favor of a more basic AV set-up for your Farewell Session on the final day. You’ll save money. It’s important to listen to your planner when it comes to site recommendations, and be flexible with dates, arrival/departure days, and length of overall program and individual sessions [business and social].

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

P.S. – Here’s the link to the ACSI 2025 Travel Study: https://theacsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25apr_Travel-Study-FINAL-1.pdf

The post Hospitality Folks, What’s Going on Out There …? appeared first on dynami.

Honestly, I don’t recall which of the author’s books Dad had just finished but it was one of his earlier tomes with a message that resonated deeply with my father. And try as I might, I was unable to find that response note when I searched for it recently back home in Ireland so I can’t tell you with 100% certainty what it said. However, it’s safe to assume it acknowledged my father’s praise of the book and its overarching message and probably included a “best of luck in all things” – type closing above the author’s distinctive signature.

Though an ocean separated them, and they never actually met, Dad and the author shared a kindred spirit.

One grew up dirt-poor in a rural farming community, rode his bike to church, earned his way to the U.S. Naval Academy and became an officer aboard a nuclear submarine, then later a farmer and a governor and a U.S. president. And perhaps most impressively, a highly respected humanitarian when his time in public office ended. He penned 32 books, all of them New York Times bestsellers.

The other grew up dirt-poor in a rural farming community, had no running water or electricity, also rode his bike to church, worked hard to become a laboratory technician at a creamery for more than four decades, founded a Pipe Band that he remained passionately committed to for 60 years, and was heavily involved with his local community. He wrote one book in 2009. It was about the Newmarket Pipe Band.

KINDRED SPIRITS

As you undoubtedly know by now, James Earl Carter, Jr., 39^th president of the United States, passed peacefully at home in tiny Plains, GA on December 29^th. He was married to Rosalynn for 77 years and was 100 years old when he passed.

What you likely don’t know is that my Dad, Dermot Jeremiah Jones, had passed peacefully at home in County Cork, Ireland three days earlier, the day after Christmas. He was married to my Mum for 62 years and was 88 years old when he passed.

Kindred spirits departing the world within 72 hours of each other …

If you know me, you know I’m not one to pitch myself a pity party and this is certainly not a plea for condolences. I miss my father, of course, but I take great comfort knowing he enjoyed a long and rich life.

Though their worlds were very different, Dermot Jones and Jimmy Carter were both fine men who were deeply committed to their faith, their family, and their community. President Carter’s send-off was full of noble pomp and circumstance, the grandeur reserved for a former president and a true statesman. It was broadcast to an entire nation and live-streamed around the globe.

My Dad’s send-off was also full of pomp and circumstance, the dignified goodbye saved for a local guy who made a difference in a tiny town. It involved a parade of pipers and more than 1,200 people at his funeral service. It was live-streamed on the town’s Facebook page.

Writing Dad’s eulogy was a team effort by his four children. In it, we acknowledged and thanked many in attendance, shared poignant moments, and a few lighter mentions, as well, such as the time my Dad participated in a pipe band performance and inadvertently missed the birth of his third child … that would be me. [No worries, Dad, no hard feelings!]

Make no mistake, I’m not trying to equate Dermot Jones and Jimmy Carter. That wouldn’t be fair to either man. Their lives played out on different stages, taking wonderful but divergent paths. Where I do find a correlation is the fact they both left their mark and did their best to make the world a better place.

The term “selfless service” comes to mind.

HUMANITY & HUMILITY …

I would bet a dime to a dollar that what resonated with Dad in President Carter’s book, and what prompted him to take the time to pen a letter, was related to stepping up and helping others. That was an intrinsic part of both men’s DNA.

Historians haven’t necessarily been kind to President Carter’s single-term in The White House, but nobody ever questions the noble and caring way he spent the final decades of his life. He was deeply committed to Habitat for Humanity and was one who chose to pick up a hammer and pound nails in as much obscurity as a former president can, rather than capitalize on a quick photo opp and be off to more relaxing matters.

My Dad was much the same way. “Dermot always made time, was an ear, stopped to talk, and volunteered,” one person told me. And he’s right.

When I think of these fine men, the words “humanity” and “humility” emerge. Both genuinely cared about others and did what they could to serve them. We live in tough times, as you know. We Americans are so privileged to live in what truly is the Land of Opportunity and even the toughest of economic or political times doesn’t change that.

I think of the horrific wildfires in California, the devastating impact of two hurricanes in western North Carolina, the horror of a terror attack on New Year’s Eve in New Orleans, and I hear an earnest plea for assistance. For help. For support. For simple caring. For understanding. For kindness.

I also wonder what the world would be like if each of us would just slow down a bit and look around … taking time to be grateful for what we have, and to take note of the needs of others. I wonder what the world would be like if we each found ways to step up and help out, and to make that a habit.

I know what Dermot Jones and Jimmy Carter would do.

Cheers,

Kenneth Jones

The post Kindred Spirits – A Piper and a President appeared first on dynami.