Amazing Presenters
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Alan Stern is a dynamic speaker, DJ, and marketing expert with nearly 20 years of sales and marketing experience in retail and service industries. Passionate about helping small businesses thrive, Alan teaches how to leverage AI and freemium apps to create a big impact with your marketing on a small budget. Driven by the belief that people buy from a person before they buy from a brand, his unique approach helps audiences blend humor and education to create marketing that builds trust and truly connect.
Andrew Brode is the president of AV Chicago which is one of the gest AV companies in Chicago. Andrew is currently the president of the Chicago ILEA Chapter. He is also a member of NACE, MPI, and WIPA.
David Hanscom is a nationally recognized DJ, entrepreneur, and podcast host with over two decades of experience creating unforgettable client experiences. A 2025 MEX Hall of Fame inductee, David now helps creative professionals and event pros master the art of client loyalty and repeat business.
Duerell Jones is a nationally recognized DJ and the Founder of Spark Entertainment Group. With over a decade of experience providing upscale entertainment experiences for weddings, corporate, and private events, he also serves as Director of Programs at Large for WIPA Chicago. Duerell is passionate about elevating industry standards through education, collaboration, and innovation.
Erik Massengale, owner of multiple DJ operations along the East Coast, is a systems and automation expert. His work has helped industry professionals reclaim valuable time through streamlined processes while boosting profits.
Keith "K.C." KoKoruz is the Marquee Show Producer as well as a serial entrepreneur. He currently owns a photography and video studio, two entertainment companies, a catering company, as well as a floral decor company. He is a DJX Dj of Year winner, ADJA Peter Merry Award Winner, Knot Hall of Fame business owner, MEX Hall of Fame Inductee, and the founder of DJ Think Tank.
Luke Renchan is the founder of the Rhode Island Wedding Group and the Southern New England Association of Professional Disc Jockeys (SNAPDJ) and owns Luke Renchan Entertainment a successful multi-op company based in Rhode Island.
Marc McIntosh is the founder of Wedding Venue Success and Team Wedding Marketing as well as Wedding Pro News. He makes his living working with show producers and wedding professionals. He is a website developer and a marketing expert.
Matt Radicelli is a serial entrepreneur, keynote presenter, executive coach, business consultant, event producer, DJ, and most importantly… the best dad and husband he can be. He is also the founder of Mentor Pods
Michael Saulpaugh is the owner of the Elegant Music Group which was just ranked the #1 fastest growing events company in America by Inc magazine.
Michael Francis, aka DJ MIXX, is a Chicago-based DJ with over 25 years in the entertainment industry. Known for his high-energy sets, he spins everything hence the name “MiXX.”Whether rocking clubs, weddings, or corporate events, DJ MIXX keeps the party unstoppable!
Roberto Villegas is the owner of Chicago's leading DJ service Pink Noise. Pink Noise specializes in weddings, quinceañeras, sweet 16’S, Proms, High School Parties, private and corporate events.
Thomas Schabow understands the intersection of media and marketing. See It Media, a three-time Emmy-nominated full-service media and digital marketing agency, they offer video production and digital services to a diverse array of clientele. With extensive experience in hospitality, marketing, and media, he will discuss the power of networking and getting involved through industry organizations like NACE in connecting professionals and driving success in today's dynamic event landscape.
Troy Adams is the owner of Carolina DJ Professionals. Troy has built one of the most in-demand companies in the country. His team of 30 performs 1,000 gigs a year, turns away another 300, and has amassed over 3,000 5-star reviews. He'll share the core concepts to help people chase you…and not the opposite.
Matt Radicelli "Check 1, 2, 3 (2, 2, 2 LOL)"
Matt kicks off the show with a rapid-fire checkup of your DJ business! We’ll hit marketing, sales, and operations with quick, actionable tips to get your gears turning and your business booming. Start strong, think bigger, and let’s set the tone for an amazing conference experience.
Troy Adams "Creating an In Demand Brand. Make them need you."
Want more leads in your pipeline? Less ghosts? To make a bigger impact at networking events? Better sales? Whether it's your marketing, networking, communication or closing, there are 3 core strategies to grow your demand and improve your business.
Marc McIntosh "10 Steps to 10X Your Marketing."
Ready to stop blending in and start booking out? This isn’t your average marketing talk. In this fast-paced session, you’ll learn 10 proven strategies to boost your visibility, attract more right-fit clients, and grow your DJ business with purpose. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, these steps are built to work with your style, your goals, and your market—without gimmicks or sleazy sales techniques. Just real strategies that cut through the noise and get results—without selling your soul or sounding like everyone else.From building a brand that books itself to mastering your online presence, we’ll cover what actually works in today’s competitive wedding and event space. You’ll walk away with a clear action plan, fresh ideas, and the confidence to market like a pro—even if you’re not one. Bring your notebook and your hustle—this is marketing that moves the needle.
Erik Massengale "The Motives and Methods of Business Automation."
In this seminar, Erik Massengale, owner of multiple DJ operations along the East Coast, shares insights into why automation is a game-changer. He’ll break down the practical methods he’s used to streamline processes that boost profits and reclaim time.
Matt Radicelli "Words Matter - Say This, Not That"
Your words can win or lose the sale. In this session, we’ll break down real-world scripts and swaps that turn “maybe” into “yes.” Learn the phrases that build trust, create urgency, and close more deals—without sounding pushy. One word can change everything.
Alan Stern "The Best Employee Not On Payroll."
Learn how to market with precision with the best employee that's not on payroll— ChatGPT! In this interactive session, you’ll discover how to use AI for simple market research, craft compelling copy, and pinpoint your ideal audience to createcontent that convert. We’ll also guide you through setting up a free LinkedIn Newsletter, making it easy to start blogging and sharing your ideas without complicated technology.ChatGPT can help you generate fresh ideas, refine your messaging, and produce content tailored to your audience. By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with clear steps, practical tips, and ready-to use strategies that make your marketing more efficient and impactful. This session gives you the tools to save time, connect with your audience, and grow your business.
Brian McGann The SMPL Path To Success
This presentation will highlight how implementing a solid system using today’s technology and tools can streamline your workflow, enhance client experience, and boost overall efficiency. By leveraging modern solutions, event professionals can stay organized, save time, and scale their business with confidence.
Alan Stern "Drop Some H.E.A.T."
Drop Some H.E.A.T. is Alan Stern’s signature keynote designed to help salespeople and business owners stay top of mind in a fun, authentic, and cost-free way. Using the H.E.A.T. Method—Humor, Education, Adding-Value, and Trust—Alan provides a simple framework for building a personal brand that allows people to naturally warm up to you over time.This engaging presentation highlights a key truth: before people buy from a brand, they buy from a person who represents a brand. Alan demonstrates how to create memorable connections by delivering value, showing personality, and earning trust on a shoestring budget. Attendees walk away with practical strategies to amplify their presence, strengthenrelationships, and position themselves as relatable and reliable leaders in their field.DROP SOME H.E.A.T.In this kickoff session, we’ll explore the H.E.A.T. Method (Humor, Education, Adding Value, Trust) to simplify social media marketing using freemium tools. Learn zero-budget strategies to amplify your efforts, attendees will leave with resources and clarity as to how to market their business on social media.
Matt Radicelli "Pure Profit - One Job at a Time"
Every event should make you money—real money. In this session, we’ll break down what you’re actually keeping, not just what you’re bringing in. Learn how to price right, cut waste, and boost your take-home with every event. Profit isn’t a mystery—it’s a simple math problem you can solve.
"QSC PRESENTS"
An informative presentation about sound provided by our title sponsor QSC
"Success by Association"
A panel of board members from ILEA, NACE, MPI, and WIPA, discussing the purposes of each organization and the reason to become members.
Marc McIntosh "Drop the Beat, Not the Ball: Fixing the Website That's Failing You."
Your website shouldn’t just exist—it should convert. In this session, we’ll break down exactly what makes a DJ website work—and what drives potential clients to bounce without ever reaching out. From first impressions to key touchpoints, you’ll learn how to build a site that not only looks great but actually books gigs. Whether you're starting from scratch or fine-tuning what you’ve got, you’ll leave with the tools to level up fast.We’ll cover the content couples actually care about, how to structure your pages for maximum impact, and the small tweaks that drive big results. If you’ve ever wondered why your site isn’t performing—or know it’s overdue for a serious upgrade—this is your chance to get clear, confident, and in control. No coding. No confusion. Just real advice that works.
Roberto Villegas "All Things Latin."
Roberto will lead attendees through everything they need to know to market, sell, and celebrate with the Latin / Hispanice community.
Michael Saulpaugh “The Paid Ads Playbook: How to Turn Traffic Into Bookings (Without Burning Your Budget)
Paid ads aren’t just a marketing tactic — they’re a system that when built and managed properly, becomes the engine that drives your business forward. You don’t need to know how to build the engine yourself — but you do need to know how to operate it, evaluate its performance, and tune it over time.
VIBO
Matt Radicelli "Staying Booked Year-Round"
Tired of the feast-or-famine cycle? Learn the marketing moves that keep your calendar full no matter the season. We’ll cover simple strategies, smart automations, and real examples to help you attract leads, stay top of mind, and stay booked year-round.
Luke Renchan "Making it to the Finish Line"
Making it to the Finish Line"—where we focus on reaching both your personal and business goals. It’s all about setting clear, actionable goals and staying motivated. Today, we’ll break down three key areas: Goal Setting: Start by defining what you want to achieve. Whether it’s hitting a specific revenue target or expanding your network, make your goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Time Management: Prioritize your tasks. Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps. Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to stay on track. Health & Wellness: Your physical and mental health is critical! Staying active helps with focus and energy—so make wellness a priority. Commit to healthier habits and incorporate quick stress-busters like meditation. At the end, you’ll have your goals written down, a plan in place, and actionable steps to move forward. Keep pushing, stay focused, and don’t let anything hold you back. Your finish line is closer than you think!
"Are you on the list?"
A panel of Chicago area catering professionals sharing why certain vendors are on their preferred vendor lists and why some aren't.
David Hanscom "Booked Once. Hired Forever: Mastering the Client Comeback Game."
In this bold, energizing session, 2025 MEX Hall of Fame inductee David Hanscom delivers six punchy and practical steps to turn one-time clients into lifelong raving fans. With over two decades of success in the entertainment and event world, David knows that client loyalty isn’t an accident—it’s a strategy. You'll learn how to dominate the first 48 hours, build trust like a pro, and make yourself so indispensable that clients wouldn’t dream of going anywhere else. This session is built for ambitious professionals who are ready to level up their retention game, boost profitability, and make their brand unforgettable. If you’re tired of chasing new clients and ready to start collecting superfans, this is the session for you.Key Takeaways: 1 The First 48 Hours Matter More Than You Think 2 Retention is More Profitable Than Acquisition 3 Repeat Clients Don’t Happen by Accident—They Happen by Design
Keith "K.C." KoKoruz Grow your business vertically and horizontally.
Learn how to diversify your offerings to the same client base that your primary business serves.
Full Pass allows you access to all seminars with VIP seating, daily lunches, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties.
Education Pass allows you access to all seminars, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties.
Trade Show Pass allows you access to the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties.
Tuesday Daily Pass allows you access to all seminars, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties on Tuesday June 24, 2025.
Wednesday Daily Pass allows you access to all seminars, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties on Wednesday June 25, 2025.
Thursday Daily Pass allows you access to all seminars, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties on Thursday June 26, 2025.
Presenter Pass allows you access to all seminars with VIP seating, daily lunches, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties.
Staff Pass allows you access to all seminars with VIP seating, daily lunches, the exhibit floor, demo rooms, as well as evening parties.
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