What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World cover art

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

What One Thing? A Meeting Planner's Guide to the Top of the Events World

Written by: Smart Meetings
Listen for free

About this listen

Smart Meetings’ What One Thing podcast is your shortcut to the top of the events world. We interview savvy meeting planners, speakers and industry experts about the decisions that made all the difference in their lives and careers so you can take the fast track to your dreams.

© 2026 Smart Meetings What One Thing
Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Originality Starts at the Origin
    Apr 16 2026

    Send us Fan Mail

    What does it really mean to be original?

    In this episode of What One Thing?, Sophia Abramchuk, founder of the Originate Institute, shares why the most powerful ideas are not created from scratch; they are uncovered. Inspired by the work of Antoni Gaudí, she explores how returning to the problem's origins can unlock more meaningful, human-centered solutions.

    From rethinking event networking to designing deeper connections, this conversation offers a practical framework for planners who want to move beyond surface-level experiences and create something that truly resonates.

    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
  • Amputate to Elevate: The Power of Strategic Subtraction
    Apr 9 2026

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode of What One Thing?, leadership coach and Paralympian John Register challenges the idea that success comes from doing more. Instead, he introduces “amputate to elevate”, the practice of letting go of what no longer serves you to perform at a higher level.

    From redefining authority as building others up to embracing strategic breaks over constant grind, this conversation is a powerful reminder that growth comes from subtraction, not addition.

    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
  • Hard Work Beats Talent: Lessons from The Gardiner Brothers
    Mar 26 2026

    Send us Fan Mail

    In this episode of What One Thing?, host Devon Montgomery Pasha, CMP, CED, talks with world champion Irish dancers Michael and Matthew Gardiner, known globally as The Gardiner Brothers, whose viral performances have reached millions online while bringing traditional Irish dance to modern audiences.

    The brothers share how discipline, creativity and innovation shaped their journey from competitive dancers to global performers, content creators and keynote speakers. When the pandemic shut down live performance, they pivoted to digital platforms, a move that helped them build a worldwide brand by blending tradition with modern music, storytelling and collaboration.

    They discuss the habits and mindset behind their success, including the belief that hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard, and reflect on what it means to run a business together while continuing to evolve their careers.

    The conversation also explores how their work in live events and keynote speaking grew naturally from performance, and how storytelling, rhythm and curiosity can help audiences connect, adapt and think differently. At its core, the episode focuses on growth, resilience and the willingness to redefine yourself when the path changes.

    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
No reviews yet