In this episode, we sit down with Emilia Kim, founder of EM Collective Events, to talk about what it really takes to strike out on your own. Emilia shares how she thoughtfully prepared for the transition, and how defining her worst-case scenario gave her the confidence to take the leap.

Along the way, we explore the realities of freelance event work—from setting rates and managing scope creep to navigating slower periods and finding clients who truly value event professionals. Emilia also reflects on the rewards of independence, including the freedom to choose projects that inspire her, explore new creative opportunities and build a business on her own terms.

Whether you're dreaming of entrepreneurship, growing a side hustle or simply curious about life beyond the corporate world, Emilia offers an honest, refreshing and practical look at the challenges, risks and rewards of betting on yourself.

Resources:

Connect with Emilia Kim:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emcollectiveevents/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emiliajkim/

Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.

Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.

Visit us on LinkedIn >

Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.

Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!

Next episode: Join Debbie and Laura as they reveal the results of the Ignite Worth It Salary Survey and—and where the conversation on value needs to go next.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.

Copyright Ignite 2026

From “accidental planner” to independent event pro, Jodi Rodriquez, CMP, founder and owner, Eleven Events’ career is a masterclass in taking risks, embracing change and building resilience in the business events industry. In this episode of Ignite Your Events, we sit down with Jodi to trace her journey from a government role to hospitality and, ultimately, launching her own thriving business.

Along the way, Jodi shares candid insights on navigating uncertainty, surviving the impact of COVID and the realities of running a solo operation at full capacity. The conversation also dives into bigger industry themes—from pricing transparency and peer support to redefining success and exploring what’s next. With a new focus on creating meaningful experiences for women, Jodi’s story is a powerful reminder that career paths aren’t always linear—and that the most impactful work often comes from following what matters most.

Resources:

Read our profile of Jodi in the Spring Issue of Ignite.

Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.

Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.

Visit us on LinkedIn >

Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.

Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!

Next episode: Emilia Kim shares what she’s learning as she navigates the transition from in-house planner to event entrepreneur.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.

Copyright Ignite 2026

In this episode of Ignite Your Events, hosts Laura Bickle and Debbie van der Beek welcome Natalie Lowe, founder of The Sustainable Events Forum and a 25-year industry veteran.

Natalie shares why the traditional “do everything, do it perfectly” mindset has stalled progress—and how a more practical, step-by-step approach can help planners actually get started.

This powerful shift in thinking: from chasing lofty sustainability goals to “raising the floor”—making meaningful, achievable improvements across more events.

We also dive into a newer, critical layer of the conversation: adaptation. As climate impacts become a real-time consideration, Natalie challenges planners to rethink risk, safety and preparedness in the face of extreme weather and evolving conditions.

Smart, honest, and refreshingly doable, this episode offers a grounded roadmap for planners ready to cut through the overwhelm and take action where it counts.

A special thank you to our episode sponsor, Quebec City Business Destination.

Learn More

Resources:

Download The Hierarchy of Actions PDF

Read The Sustainable Events Report, featuring Natalie Lowe in the Spring Issue of Ignite.

Learn more about The Sustainable Events Forum

Download the TSEF’s RFP Questions for Sustainable Events

Visit the Worth It landing page on Ignite magazine’s website for resources, back issues, and ongoing conversations.

Sign up for a FREE subscription to Ignite magazine for more ideas and inspiration.

Visit us on LinkedIn >

Do you have a comment, a question or want to share a story about business practices in the event industry? We want to hear from you! Email us a voice memo or drop us a line at podcast@ignitemag.ca.

Be sure to subscribe to the Ignite Your Events podcast so you don’t miss any of our inspiring content.

We hope you enjoyed this episode of Ignite Your Events. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice to elevate your business events!

This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. We are not responsible for any losses, damages or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.

Copyright Ignite 2026