Return On Wellness Episode 20 - Meet Carina Bauer

In this episode of Return on Wellness, David T Stevens chats with Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, as they explore how wellness is transforming the events industry. Recorded live from the Skift Global Forum, this candid conversation covers Carina's unique career journey, the wellness initiatives at IMEX, and how she manages fitness and leadership while running one of the largest trade shows in the world. Carina also delves into the importance of resilience, the growing trend of sober events, and her own experience balancing fitness with a demanding career. Tune in to learn how the IMEX team is championing wellness, and get valuable insights into the evolving role of health and sustainability in the world of events. If you’re an event professional, leader, or interested in wellness at work, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction & Welcome 02:00 - Carina’s Journey: From Family Business to CEO of IMEX 06:30 - Launching IMEX: The Early Days 10:00 - Record-Breaking IMEX America: Key Stats 13:00 - Wellness & Hosted Buyer Experience at IMEX 18:30 - Wellness Programs at IMEX 2023: IMEX Run & Resilience Room 21:00 - Finding Balance: Wellness & Scheduling for Event Professionals 26:30 - Tahira Endean: Elevating Education at IMEX 30:00 - Pop-Up Events & Creating Micro-Communities at IMEX 34:00 - Carina’s Personal Wellness Journey: Prioritizing Fitness 40:00 - Leadership Lessons from Rock Climbing 48:00 - Hot Takes: What the Events Industry Needs More & Less Of 51:00 - Final Thoughts on Wellness in Events