Sarah Kneller didn’t set out to become a leader in esports, but once she got pulled in, she helped shape it. From wrangling chaos at the first International Dota 2 tournament to launching Gamers & Guardians for military communities, she’s been at the frontlines of what digital-first events can do.

In this episode, we talk about what makes an event feel real, even when it’s happening online. Sarah shares how broadcast, game design, and emotional connection all come together in the spaces she builds. And why, sometimes, a weekly game night can mean a whole lot more than just a game.

This one’s about events, purpose, connection, and rethinking how we gather.

Follow Gamers & Guardians on Twitch and check out more at augustinteractive.gg. To stay in the loop or share your story, head to eventexp.org.

Since 2002, SF Sketchfest has hosted the biggest names in comedy—Monty Python legends, Kids in the Hall, Mr. Show, SNL icons, Paul Giamatti, Tim Curry, and even surprise appearances from Bill Murray. In this episode, co-founder David Owen joins us to share how the festival grew from a six-show grassroots event into a comedy mecca that blends underground talent with cultural icons. We go behind the scenes on what makes the festival special, how the team built trust with performers, and why live comedy still matters more than ever.

Laugh, learn, and discover: this is the story of SF Sketchfest.

#SFSketchfest #ComedyFestival #LiveComedy #EventExplorer #PaulGiamatti #TimCurry #BillMurray #SNL #MontyPython #KidsInTheHall #Podcast #FestivalStory

How do you train someone to run a music festival, a halftime show, or a citywide celebration? It starts with education.

In this episode of Event Explorer, we sit down with Dr. Tim Otteman from Central Michigan University—one of the only accredited event management programs in the U.S.—to talk about what it takes to prepare the next generation of event professionals.

From hands-on internships to classroom lessons in risk, budgeting, and cultural impact, Dr. Otteman shares how education is shaping the future of the events industry—and why creating meaningful experiences starts long before anyone arrives onsite.

🎓 A must-listen for educators, producers, and anyone looking to break into the world of live events.

#EventExplorer #Events #EventProfs #Podcast #Education #FestivalLife #LiveEvents #Internships #CollegeToCareer #CreativeCareers #EventManagement #HigherEd #CMU #Leadership #FutureOfEvents