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 Innovation at MPI and now Events Content Director at EnsembleIQ, to explore what it really means to grow a career and a community in today’s meeting and events space.
Lori shares the behind-the-scenes of producing massive hybrid events (like Global Meetings Industry Day), what it takes to build welcoming, inclusive communities, and why sometimes the best time to make a career move is when you don’t have to.
Key Takeaways
- Engagement doesn’t happen by accident—successful virtual meetings run on intention, energy, and great teams.
- Community thrives when it’s inclusive, welcoming, and safe to ask for help.
- Events are a powerful tool for brand loyalty and emotional connection.
- True leadership is collaborative, not top-down.
- Building engaging virtual spaces is about connection, not just content.
Growing your career and creating impactful meetings doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this podcast, we explore the strategies, mindset, and tools that make virtual meetings work, while helping you grow into the leader you’re meant to be.
👉 Rate, Review & Follow
If this episode helped you rethink the way you lead virtual meetings, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast. And don’t forget to follow so you don’t miss any upcoming conversations. Your support helps us grow and bring on even more incredible guest.
Connect with Lori Pugh Marcum:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/loripugh
Connect with John Chen:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceojohnchen/
