Daily Inspiration: Meet Cathy Powell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cathy Powell

Hi Cathy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Absolutely! Here’s a polished version of your story for review:

Nine years ago, I made a life-changing decision to leave the snow of NYC for the sun of Los Angeles. My career as an event producer at MTV/Viacom spanned over 20 years, where I had the incredible opportunity to produce events and work closely with talent. However, my life took an unexpected turn during a work trip when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 34. With no family history, this diagnosis was a profound shock.

Navigating through cancer reshaped my perspective on life and work. I began to prioritize myself and my passion projects, a shift that ultimately gave me the courage to leave MTV after two decades and move to LA. Despite facing workplace bullying at my new job, this move allowed me to live in my happy place, Los Angeles, which I had always dreamed of.

In LA, I discovered my passion project, “Where’s The Buzz LA.” Combining my love for discovering the newest and hottest restaurants, bars, hotels, and venues with my professional expertise, I started this project just before COVID-19. Though the pandemic forced me to adjust my plans, I continued to focus on creating a monthly newsletter and maintaining a strong social media presence.

Today, I am living my dream in Los Angeles, working at Expedia where I lead a team producing B2B events. My journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, each shaping the person I am today. I am grateful for every experience that has led me to this fulfilling chapter of my life.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my biggest obstacles is managing time, as my job demands long hours and my passion project requires significant dedication. Despite this, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I am grateful for every experience that has led me to this fulfilling chapter of my life.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an event producer with a professional background in producing a wide range of prestigious award shows, from the MTV Video Music Awards to the Golden Globes. As a freelancer, I had the opportunity to work on the Super Bowl, which was an incredible experience. After the onset of COVID-19, I started consulting with Expedia to help them produce their biggest partner event in Las Vegas, catering to over 2,000 attendees. This eventually led to a full-time role where I now lead the B2B events team, producing over 25 events annually with a team of four.

In event production, one of the most significant investments, aside from the production itself, is spent on researching and selecting venues. My passion for venues inspired me to create a newsletter and social media presence called “Where’s the Buzz LA and NYC,” dedicated to discovering and showcasing the best venues in these cities. This platform allows me to share my insights and stay connected with the latest trends in the event industry.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The events industry is experiencing a dynamic transformation as we navigate the post-pandemic landscape. There’s a growing trend towards hybrid events, combining both in-person and virtual elements to maximize reach and engagement. This approach not only accommodates those who prefer or need to attend remotely but also offers new opportunities for creative content delivery and interactive experiences.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in event planning, with a strong emphasis on reducing waste, using eco-friendly materials, and choosing venues with sustainable practices. Attendees and clients alike are more conscious of the environmental impact of events, pushing the industry to innovate and adopt greener solutions.

Technology continues to play a crucial role, with advancements in AI, augmented reality, and data analytics enhancing the attendee experience and providing deeper insights into event performance. Personalized experiences driven by data are becoming a standard expectation, making it essential for event producers to leverage these tools effectively.

Lastly, there’s a notable shift towards more immersive and experiential events. Attendees are looking for unique, memorable experiences that go beyond traditional formats. This means creating interactive environments, engaging storytelling, and opportunities for meaningful connections.

To stay ahead of these trends and share valuable insights, I created the “Where’s the Buzz LA and NYC” newsletter and social media presence. This platform is dedicated to discovering and showcasing the best venues, highlighting new trends, and providing tips for creating exceptional events. By staying connected with the latest developments in the industry, my newsletter helps event professionals and enthusiasts stay informed and inspired.

Overall, the future of the events industry looks promising, with continued innovation and adaptation driving growth and creating new opportunities for engagement and connection. My work with “Where’s the Buzz LA and NYC” ensures that I remain at the forefront of these trends, providing valuable resources and insights to the event community.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wheresthebuzzla/