Episode 61

full
Published on:

14th Oct 2025

Amplifying Attendee Voices: How Emcees Ensure Events Serve the Audience with Clare Forestier

Have you ever considered the profound impact an emcee can have on the success of an event? In this episode of the Event Innovator Show, I sit down with Claire Forestier, a seasoned event emcee and attendee advocate, to explore the art of creating truly engaging experiences that resonate with audiences.

The Power of Attendee Advocacy

Claire shares her journey from journalism to event hosting, revealing:

  • Why understanding attendee motivations is crucial for event success
  • How to shift from a client-centric to an audience-first approach
  • The importance of baking attendee experience into event planning from the start

Practical Strategies for Engagement

Discover innovative approaches to event design, including:

  • Reimagining traditional session formats for maximum impact
  • Creating opportunities for meaningful audience participation
  • Leveraging technology to capture and address attendee concerns in real-time

Navigating Challenging Audiences

Learn how to turn reluctant attendees into enthusiastic participants by:

  • Acknowledging and addressing audience concerns openly
  • Crafting experiences that cater to diverse attendee needs
  • Encouraging leadership to actively participate in engagement activities

Harnessing the Power of Your Event Team

Claire emphasizes the importance of:

  • Tapping into the collective expertise of your event suppliers
  • Bringing emcees and key partners into the planning process early
  • Viewing your emcee as a strategic partner rather than just talent

Throughout our conversation, Claire challenges event organizers to rethink their approach to audience engagement, offering practical advice for creating events that truly resonate with attendees. Her insights provide a fresh perspective on the role of emcees as attendee advocates and partners in event success.

Whether you're planning your first event or looking to revitalize a long-standing conference, this episode offers valuable strategies for creating experiences that leave a lasting impact on your audience and drive real results for your organization.

Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to event planning and create experiences that truly connect with your audience? Tune in to discover how embracing attendee advocacy can transform your events and leave a lasting impression on your community.

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About the Podcast

The Event Innovator Show with Phil Mershon
Innovative Strategies for Launching and Transforming Events
The Event Innovator Show is your go-to podcast for fresh ideas and breakthrough strategies in the event industry. Whether you're launching your first event or looking to reignite the impact of an established one, join host Phil Mershon—event strategist, coach, and author of Unforgettable: The Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences—as he interviews leading event creators and innovators. Each episode uncovers the secrets behind successful events, exploring everything from cutting-edge technology to creative content and unique venue ideas. Tune in weekly to discover the tools and inspiration you need to elevate your events and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

About your host

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Phil Mershon