In Conversation with Marlys Arnold, Exhibit Marketing Strategist, Speaker, Author & Consultant, Trade Show Insights Blog/Podcast Host

Marlys Arnold brings a unique perspective to trade show exhibiting, with experience as both an exhibitor and a show organiser. For more than two decades, she’s advised thousands of exhibitors through consultations and workshops for events, ranging from local consumer expos to major U.S. trade shows. She has written two books on the subject: the award-winning Build a Better Trade Show Image and Exhibit Design That Works. A respected voice in the industry, Marlys frequently contributes to top publications and podcasts, in addition to hosting the highly regarded Trade Show Insights blog and podcast. She’s also the creative mastermind behind the Exhibit Marketers Café, an online hub for learning. Marlys Arnold Marlys Arnold discusses the state of the Trade Shows Industry and its evolution with technology changes. She talks about how her podcast also reflects that evolution, while its core focus and identity have remained consistent through industry changes over the years. Marlys discusses how the industry failed to sustain virtual elements post-pandemic, losing inclusivity for those unable to attend in person—highlighting a persistent “either-or” mindset instead of embracing hybrid as an enhancement. She also advocates for the availability of event elements through platforms post-event, enabling better access. Marlys suggests shifting from transactional exhibiting to experience-driven engagement—encouraging storytelling, real-world demonstrations, and attendee-focused interactions to build long-term relationships, and promoting innovative interactions geared for the new Gen Z attendees, who are much more introverted than the earlier generations. Run time – 00:46:19 Links for Subhanjan  [email protected]  https://www.linkedin.com/in/subhanjansarkar Links for Marlys Arnold: Award-winning author of:   – Build a Better Trade Show Image – https://www.exhibitmarketerscafe.com/build/    – Exhibit Design That Works – https://www.exhibitmarketerscafe.com/works/ Founder of the Exhibit Marketers Academy Host of the Trade Show Insights blog/podcast – https://www.tradeshowinsights.com/ Find me on Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/imagespecialist Twitter – http://twitter.com/imagespecialist LinkedIn – http://www.linkedin.com/in/marlysarnold