By John Chen, CSP | CEO, Engaging Virtual Meetings TL;DR — Too Long; Didn’t Read Lipsyncapalooza opened The Engaging Retreat 2026 with five attendee-powered lip-sync performances, massive audience energy, and one unforgettable flying-shoe incident. Here’s why it worked: The lesson? Great conference engagement doesn’t happen […]
Beyond his role in the Event Infrastructure Services department, Khris takes on a meaningful role as the Community & Industry Engagement Lead at Encore’s API BRG, championing support for the Asian & Pacific Islander community. Serving as a board member in the 2021-2022 term for […]
Sara Gilbert is an award-winning Business Strategist & Mindset Coach for service-based entrepreneurs. She recognized as one of the “Top 10 Up-and-Coming Entrepreneurs in 2023” by Success Magazine and the recipient of the “Most Innovative Woman in Business Development Strategy” and the “Best International Business […]
Jackie Wu is a sales strategist, coach, and speaker. She specializes in helping business owners close sales quickly and successfully to grow their businesses. She also helps empower individuals to overcome self-limiting beliefs and build solid, life-long confidence to achieve their life goals. Key Takeaways […]
Courtney Stanley is recognized globally as an award-winning keynote speaker, leadership coach, and host of the podcast for women in business, Dare to Interrupt. Courtney has spent more than 12 years engaging professionals, entrepreneurs and organizations in game-changing, impactful conversations that empower individuals to tap […]
Kris Everett is a purpose-driven professional known for her innate ability to spot inefficiencies and drive continuous process improvement. With a reputation as a creative problem solver, Kris is highly regarded by clients, business partners, and senior executives as a trusted project management advisor. She […]
TLDR Click the link and watch the video to see what happened in 4-minutes and 40-seconds at The Engaging Retreat 2026… [INTRO] We started with Lipsyncapalooza,And normal left the room!JO kicked off those slippers—Jessica Rabbit in full bloom. Jacques brought Canadian Power of Love,Donna said […]
What makes a virtual or hybrid event truly engaging? In this episode of Engaging Virtual Meetings, John Chen, author of Engaging Virtual Meetings and an experienced event producer, shares how he creates interactive experiences that keep audiences involved. Drawing on his 28 years in business, […]
Episode 151: Learn how to boost team engagement and make virtual meetings more interactive How do you keep people engaged, connected, and motivated in virtual meetings? In this episode of Engaging Virtual Meetings, host John Chen welcomes Tyler Hayden, a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), keynote […]
Episode 152: Learn how to overcome business challenges and build stronger customer relationships What does it take to grow a business, build stronger customer relationships, and keep people engaged in virtual meetings? In this episode, John Chen sits down with entrepreneur and business consultant Mike […]
Episode 153: Learn how to make virtual collaboration and training more effective What does it take to make virtual meetings and online training more engaging, productive, and enjoyable? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Dawn Bjork, a productivity speaker, Microsoft Certified Trainer, and […]
Episode 154: Learn how to connect with students through engaging teaching strategies What does it take to keep students engaged, encourage participation, and make virtual learning more interactive? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Tatiana Rodriguez, a Rutgers University educator who teaches public […]
Episode 155: Learn how to push your limits, develop daily habits for success, and discover what you’re capable of Learn how retired Navy SEAL Don Mann approaches extreme challenges, endurance racing, and personal growth. In this episode of the Engaging Virtual Meetings podcast, Don shares […]
Episode 184: Learn how to build a profitable speaking brand by finding your niche and attracting the right clients. What makes a speaker stand out in a crowded market and turn their expertise into a thriving business? In this episode, John Chen sits down with […]
Episode 183: Learn why skilled producers are essential for successful virtual and hybrid meetings What does it take to run a smooth, engaging, and stress-free virtual meeting? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Christopher Johnson, founder of Calm Clear Communications and an experienced […]
Episode 182: Learn how professional emcees create engaging and unforgettable event experiences What makes an event truly memorable? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Quinn Conyers, a professional event emcee, to discuss how great emcees connect audiences, keep events flowing, and turn ordinary […]
Episode 181: Learn how great emcees keep audiences engaged and create memorable event experiences What makes a great emcee, and how can they create a memorable event experience? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Mimi Brown, CSP, a keynote speaker and leadership strategist, […]
Episode 156: Learn how video can elevate your speaking and create more engaging experiences How can video help speakers get noticed, build trust, and create stronger audience experiences? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Matt Bauer, a videographer and video editor who has […]
Episode 157: Learn how storytelling can create stronger virtual connections How can storytelling help you connect with people, even through a screen? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Christy Renee Stehle to explore storytelling, confidence, resilience, and the power of meaningful virtual connections. […]
Episode 159: Learn how self-advocacy, trust, and engagement can help you speak up How can you advocate for yourself without feeling uncomfortable or unheard? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Neelu Kaur to talk about self-advocacy, confidence, psychological safety, and creating more engaging […]
Episode 160: Learn how AI, innovation, and virtual engagement are changing the way we lead and connect How is AI changing the way we work, learn, and connect? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Jim Harris and Lee-Anne McAlear to explore AI, virtual […]
Episode 161: Learn how to lead through change, strengthen collaboration, and create meaningful connections in a virtual world What does it take to adapt as a leader, build stronger teams, and stop letting your business run you? In this episode, John Chen sits down with […]
Episode 163: Learn how virtual connections, inclusion, and intentional communication can help create greater unity What does it take to create stronger connections and greater unity in a world where so much of our communication happens online? In this episode, John Chen sits down with […]
Episode 180: Learn how people-first leadership, stronger communication, and virtual engagement can drive real results What happens when leaders put people at the center of their business? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Jessper Maquindang, a leadership and company culture professional who helps […]
TLDR: 1. Design the experience before you buy the technology 2. Stop calling remote attendees “the people online” 3. Production quality affects engagement 4. STOP READING and CLICK https://evmconference.eventbrite.com?discount=evmjohn to experience a global engaging stage in action for FREE. —————————- Two hours after The Presentation […]
Episode 164: Learn how to boost productivity without sacrificing your health, make virtual meetings more engaging, and reclaim your workday What if being more productive didn’t mean working longer, sacrificing your health, or missing time with the people who matter most? In this episode, John […]
Episode 165: Learn how to create a more joyful life, take responsibility for your happiness, and stay engaged through life’s challenges with Lien Ngoc Ngu What does it really mean to live a joyful life? And how can you stay present, adapt to challenges, and […]
Episode 166: Learn how to think differently, build belief in yourself, and create deeper engagement through integrity and commitment with Kevin Snyder What does it take to turn an unexpected opportunity into a speaking career? And how can belief in yourself, keeping your commitments, and […]
Episode 179: Learn how to design more engaging meetings, create meaningful attendee experiences, and make virtual and hybrid events more inclusive. What does it take to create meetings that people find relevant, engaging, and worth attending? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Lisa […]
Episode 178: Learn how to make virtual meetings more engaging, amplify your content, and use creativity and play to connect with your audience. What does it take to create engaging virtual experiences while also turning your content and conversations into meaningful business opportunities? In this […]
Episode 177: Learn how to create a stronger virtual presence, build meaningful connections, and keep moving forward when business challenges arise. What does it take to stay resilient, build meaningful relationships, and make a strong impression in virtual meetings? In this episode, John Chen sits […]
Episode 176: Learn how to adapt to unexpected challenges, make virtual meetings work for your business, and lead with humility. What does it take to keep a business moving when unexpected challenges disrupt the way you work? In this episode, John Chen sits down with […]
TLDR: Click and watch 5-minutes and 2-seconds to learn how to get rid of “You’re On Mute” forever. You’re On Mute became the most frequently uttered phrase in corporate America in 2020 – https://marker.medium.com/how-youre-on-mute-became-the-most-frequently-uttered-phrase-in-corporate-america-this-year-5f7275f41a52 In 2026, it still happens estimated 6 million times a day. There’s […]
*** SEE FREE VIDEO AT END *** Quick test. Think back to the last conference you attended. Who spoke? What did they teach? What have you used since? If your brain is buffering, you’ve just discovered the problem that **Hall of Fame speaker Tim Gard** […]
What happens when your “fun audience activity” makes people wish they’d picked a different table? You wanted participation. They’re hoping you won’t call their name. At The Engaging Retreat in 2025, Hall of Fame speaker Brian Walter showed how thoughtful game design can change that experience. His opening […]
No crafty AI, just words from my heart. It’s my birthday and you get the gift. You get a FREE virtual ticket to my Engaging Retreat. Click https://evmconference.eventbrite.com?discount=evmjohn to register for The Engaging Retreat 2026. Click the blue “Read More”. Announcing today, I’m sharing with you: NINETEEN […]
Episode 167: Learn how to create engagement before your event even begins, use technology to stay present, and build stronger connections through meaningful experiences. What if engagement starts long before people walk into the room? In this episode, John Chen sits down with his good […]
Episode 168: Learn how to create stronger connections, improve virtual engagement, and make online meetings more meaningful and effective. What does it take to keep people connected and engaged when everyone is behind a screen? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Elizabeth McCormick, […]
Episode 174: Learn how speakers can use short-form video to build visibility, showcase their expertise, and create more opportunities to book speaking engagements. What if your next speaking gig could start with a 30-second video? In this episode, John Chen sits down with Vaibhav “Happy” […]
Episode 169: Learn how to build a stronger workplace culture, create psychological safety, and keep virtual and hybrid teams connected and engaged. What does it take to create a workplace where people feel valued, connected, and motivated to stay? In this episode, John Chen sits […]
Episode 174: Learn how to make virtual teaching more engaging, build stronger connections, and turn Zoom failures into meaningful student wins. In this episode, John Chen sits down with Leila Kubesh, keynote speaker, consultant, entrepreneur, Ohio Teacher of the Year, and National Teachers Hall of […]
Episode 170: Learn how to pause before reacting, understand your emotions, and make more mindful choices with the SQUID method. What if you could create a pause between what happens and how you respond? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mel “The Squid […]
Episode 173: Learn how to handle uncertainty, unlock hidden potential, and use curiosity to navigate change. Uncertainty is something we can’t always control, but we can learn how to respond to it. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lynda Shaw, behavioral neuroscientist, entrepreneur, […]
Episode 172: Learn how to design engaging experiences, create meaningful connections, and turn every event into an opportunity for impact. Great events aren’t just about what happens on stage—they’re about how people feel, connect, participate, and remember the experience. In this episode, I sit down […]
Engagement Lessons from NSA Influence At 2:00 a.m. in Austin, the official conference agenda was long over. The breakout rooms were empty. The keynotes had ended. The name badges were probably hanging sideways. Sensible people were asleep. But inside the NSA Music Jam, speakers from […]
Episode 171: Learn how to boost productivity, engage every audience, and create virtual experiences that truly connect. Being productive isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what matters most. In this episode, I sit down with productivity expert, keynote speaker, and SO Productive founder Sarah […]
The Fastest Way To Disengage Your Audience From The Start ________________________________________ TL;DR — Click To Learn The Lesson in Just 5 Minutes In a Video Click https://youtu.be/BlW15o02cJQ ________________________________________ I took the time to attend an important meeting that I really wanted the content from. My camera […]
27 Days. 6 Cities. 1 Life-Changing Lesson From Every Stop. A journey across America that revealed the secrets of connection, leadership, and unforgettable experiences. ________________________________________ TL;DR — Six Lessons From 27 Days on the Road • San Antonio, TX – The Work is never done […]
How the world’s best hybrid events are turning screens and seats into ONE unforgettable shared experience TL;DR Hybrid meetings are no longer about “streaming the stage.”The best events in 2026 create engagement equity—where virtual and in-person attendees feel equally seen, heard, valued, and involved. In […]
Lessons from the Alan Sugiyama Hum Bow Eating Contest TL;DR Most food eating contests are run like logistics. The best ones are run like live theater. If you want people leaning forward, cheering wildly, recording moments for social media, laughing with strangers, and talking about […]
What I’ve Learned Inside GSMCON’s #VirtualLand About Creating One Audience Instead of Two TL;DR Most conferences accidentally create two different events. One audience gets the lights, the stage, the hallway conversations, the eye contact, the laughter, the energy. The other gets… a rectangle. A feed. […]
Click to register –https://zoom.us/meeting/register/HcCcjiTOTE6DAUiPhGw8jA Excited for the content, I logged into the hybrid meeting of a well-known organization. What do I see? Black screen. Silent audio. No chat box. No Q&A. Have you ever felt like a second-class citizen? Well I have. In that moment. I […]
Click the video to see a 3 1/2-minute recap of the Olympic Peninsula Tourism Summit. The Olympic Peninsula Tourism Summit wanted a professional emcee to increase interaction, networking and collaboration between attendees. How did the Executive Director and her Summit committee know they got the […]
Read this if you want to save money at your next conference. Read this if you want to increase your attendee reviews even more. Read this if you want your next conference to be even better. Let me say something that might sting a little… […]
You hit your numbers…but something still felt off. The room wasn’t buzzing the way you hoped.Sponsors smiled—but didn’t rebook.And deep down, you’re wondering if it really worked. Let me say this clearly: Your conference didn’t fail. But there are four hidden problems I see over […]
It started with my Dad being “lazy”. (This is a joke, my Dad is a retired doctor)And somehow, everyone showed up. That’s rare. My Dad wanted to celebrate everybody’s birthday in one day. We would all fly to San Francisco. The trade is that he […]
Most people think an 8-minute keynote is something you just “tighten up.” I used to believe that too.Until I actually tried to make one unforgettable. The problem From the outside, it looks easy.You walk on stage. You smile. You deliver. Behind the scenes? This talk […]
An attendee wrote “The Engaging Retreat was So ENGAGING, I May Be Pregnant!” “John Chen’s Engaging Retreat exceeded by expectations in every way!”, said Cecilia Yeung “I’m walking away from The Engaging Retreat 1000% clearer on message, mission and momentum.”, said Kiva Geiger LESSONS FROM THE […]
I just returned from producing the Association of Talent Development St. Louis Learn Conference with the amazing president Jazmin Webster.The challenge is that the venue required me to “NOT TOUCH THEIR EQUIPMENT”This is a challenge since they have their mics, speakers, and projectors as part […]
This email is for leaders, trainers, and speakers who want audiences leaning in, not tuning out.Yesterday I brought together 7 experts on how to Stop Losing Attention. Here are their top 7 💛Golden Nugget tips with 👆🏽clickable short videos: 1) Lia Bliss – 3 Comments […]
💀 Most meetings aren’t boring because of the format. They’re boring because the stakes are fake. Clients blame agendas, tech tools, slide decks, even “Zoom fatigue.” But deep down, they know the real issue: Nobody is saying what they actually think. Nobody is doing what […]
It’s September 3rd. It’s one week after my birthday. I asked you one thing, “REPLY and just say something nice.” I was B-L-O-W-N A-W-A-Y! Click https://youtu.be/aY66thDNHF0 to hear 1-minute and 46-seconds of what people said or read on: “I appreciate all you do to share your knowledge […]
“Speaking without a producer is like a skydiver jumping without a chute” -John Chen The producer chose to use a projector in a room that had skylights on a sunny day. The result is that a Blue Angel Boss with exclusive video was completely washed […]
“AI won’t take your job, but someone using AI will.” -Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang CLICK to see the “It’s All AI Video” https://youtu.be/mRFK4R-0_kU I’m a member of LaughNSA, a group of National Speakers Association that specializes in humor. At their largest conference, Influence, LaughNSA puts […]
“It is impossible to outgive yourself, so never be reluctant to be generous.” -Cavett Robert
This July I celebrate 28 years of being in business. Here are my 6 best lessons: 1) Entrepreneurship Is The Path to Authenticity – Because I started my own company, I get be exactly who I am, maximizing my authenticity. This is a gift 2) Plan […]
🎇Have you ever noticed how a simple virtual interaction can spark something profound—something that compels us to take things offline and meet face-to-face? It’s as if virtual gatherings are the gateway drug to in-person connection, creating a space where boundaries dissolve, and possibilities expand. 🫱🏽🫲🏽This […]
I have to pick speakers for multiple conferences including my own. Many of you have to pick speakers for your events and conferences. Why is it so important? Often your career and reputation is on the line for the choices you make. Here are my […]
The movie, The Blind Side, shows the value of coaching to get a player to realize their full potential. This January through March, I was a coach for the National Speaking Association’s Northwest Chapter (NSA NW) Speaking Showcase. Here are the top coaching tips I […]
Have you ever been to a boring panel? I was asked to moderate a panel at the 2,000 attendee Meetings Professional International World Education Congress called “Cultural Competency 2.0; #RealTalk on Allyship in Action”. This topic is very challenging this year with all the changes […]
Episode 118: Learn how to build wealth later in life, host engaging virtual meetings, and create a hybrid business model that works—from someone who did it all after 50. In this episode of Engaging Virtual Meetings, I sit down with Christine McCarron, real estate investor, […]
🎇This 4th of July, I spent my weekend….cleaning my garage. Click to see a video of the result https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1AaxFUZmFX/ 🚗My garage is such a metaphor for life. You save things in there. You forget about them. Your life changes so you don’t need them anymore. But they […]
Episode 117: Learn how to turn your virtual conference into a can’t-look-away experience—complete with music, breakthroughs, and next-level AI engagement. In this special recap episode of Engaging Virtual Meetings, host John Chen and co-host Roger Haskett reflect on the most powerful, surprising, and laugh-out-loud moments […]
Jason Chan is the founder at TV2 Consulting and is going to share his secrets for remote work. In this episode, we discuss: Establishing your presence in a virtual environment 👨💻 How to onboard someone new into a remote company ❌ Disadvantages of […]
Episode 8: Learn how small changes to your slides, setup, and platform can make a big difference for attendees with disabilities. In this episode of Engaging Virtual Meetings, I speak with Sam Evans, Certified Association Executive and accessibility expert from the International Association of Accessibility […]
With gratitude, I reflect on 2024. From producing global hybrid events and keynote speeches to earning elite certifications and working with legends like Les Brown and Jay Abraham, this year was packed with impactful milestones and unforgettable experiences. I am profoundly grateful for my extraordinary […]
CAPS is the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers. They just hosted their CAPS Convention https://www.capsconvention.com/ on December 5th, 2024 to December 8th, 2024 in Costa Rica! Here are my top 7 lessons from this year’s CAPS Convention: 1 – When people ask you, say YES! […]
How do you know someone is engaged? They write a social media post about you. This email is dedicated to my good friend Traca Savadogo from Mexico and listen to her sage advice to “Engage by being of service and value”. ————————— Lessons Learned from […]
“If you think hybrid is not good, you haven’t seen it done well.” -John Chen with keynoters Dr. Ronnie Melton https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robbie-melton-36384121/ and Don Mann https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-mann-6b056818b/ 😤 Do you think hybrid is too complicated? 💰Do you think hybrid is too expensive? 👀Then you haven’t seen it done well. ✈️ […]
2/21/2024 8:55am until we’re done If you book speakers, CLICK https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwkcOmhrjIqGdUciVkeNDcM168rUrR-e-XC to register, else read on… Come hear the top API (Asian Pacific Islander) Speakers on an amazing variety of topics and help you find the best programs for May API Heritage Month. Sponsored by […]
Read on to learn how to prevent a share screen disaster. Top client Keith Streckenbach https://pharmacystars.com invited me to an amazing business program in Redondo Beach. Co-founders Todd Stevenson and Leon Sharyon were presenting about their ground breaking company, Abstract Ice, that has invented a new process […]
[Image: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1588196749597-9ff075ee6b5b] By Annalise Rein The balance and structure of work life and associated events have drastically changed these past few years. Gallup’s report here highlights that five in ten workers are opting for a hybrid work setup as of 2022, and the preference for […]
Click to register for The Engaging Virtual Meetings Conference 4.0 10/23/2023-10/25/2023 Do you want to see more engagement at your next online event?Do you want to see retention rates go up dramatically? Do you want your event to be easy to plan? What if… If […]
🧑🏼❤️🧑🏾When you have the right producer, you can create an engaging show. Here are 4 reasons why you want the right producer: 🥅GOAL – The right producer knows your program goals ✏️DESIGN – The right producer designs a run of show and chooses the best tools to […]
Episode 7: Learn how to grow your career, build inclusive communities, and lead with impact—online and off. Virtual meetings are here to stay, but real engagement takes more than good tech. In this episode, I sit down with Lori Pugh Marcum, former Head of Meeting […]
Today’s guest is Anndrea Harris, the Canva Queen, you can find her on social media at https://facebook.com/whooanncreativestudio or https://whooann.com Anndrea Harris is a trailblazing Social Media and Marketing Specialist at The City of Wichita Falls. With a deep passion for branding and its potential, she […]
Episode 6: Learn how to design virtual and hybrid meetings that keep people engaged without overwhelming them with tech. Virtual meetings aren’t going anywhere, but how do you make them actually engaging? In this episode, I sit down with Jim Spellos, tech educator and founder […]
The world is returning to normal and hybrid is on the rise. I was in 4 hybrids in the last week. One was as big as 1,400 people in the audience. I wanted to share a few personal secrets to amazing and better hybrid. 📽️🎤It’s […]
Episode 5: Learn how to keep your energy high and audience engaged in virtual events Engagement in virtual events isn’t just about the tools, it’s about how you show up. In this episode, I sit down with veteran radio personality and virtual MC Dee Daniels […]
Episode 3: Learn how to design virtual experiences that actually connect people We’ve all sat through virtual events that felt lifeless, disconnected, or just plain exhausting. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, I sit down with Emmy Award-winning creative director […]
Episode 2: Learn how to create engaging virtual meetings that make people feel seen, heard, and eager to participate. Zoom fatigue is real, but virtual meetings aren’t going anywhere. The good news? They can be better. More human. More effective. And more engaging. In this […]
Learn how to create engaging, high-impact virtual meetings using a proven framework. Let’s be honest, most virtual meetings are still boring. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, I, John Chen, author of Engaging Virtual Meetings, share what I’ve learned over […]
Virtual meetings have taken over many work interactions within the last two years alone. Today, 83% of employees spend a third of their work week in video-on virtual meetings. These aren’t just one-off meetings either, but multiple ones throughout the week — 17% of workers […]
https://www.facebook.com/robbie.samuels Robbie Samuels highlighted Engaging Virtual Meetings CEO John Chen on his #FollowFriday post. One phrase is becoming more and more prevalent in the entrepreneurship sphere. No, it’s not the dreaded “girl boss”. COLLABORATION OVER COMPETITION. Teamwork has the incredible power to increase productivity, job […]
Thank you for making someone’s day, I’m sure they will appreciate you! Your nominee will receive an email about how to apply.
I’m proud to announce the Engaging Virtual Meetings Awards, the EVAs! CLICK to nominate your best virtual or hybrid person! It’s been an amazing time since virtual exploded in the world. Now it’s time to celebrate the innovation, the creativity, the engagement of the top […]
I’m John Chen, author of Engaging Virtual Meetings, and many people ask what equipment do I use in my setup? My setup is the results of 1,000s of failures as my motto is #FailFaster. Just fill out this form and you’ll immediately get a link […]
Virtual conferences have been ushering in transformation in corporate communications, especially since more and more jobs are now welcoming remote and hybrid set-ups. Because of its popularity, the global video conferencing market size is expected to be worth $19.7 billion by 2030, with a projected […]
