VMA launches new industry podcast

The Venue Management Association [Asia and Pacific] has launched a new industry podcast, ‘The Next Stage - Exploring the Future of the Venue Industry’.

Promising a new era of connection, collaboration and insight for the venue management industry, the podcast is described as “a new voice for anyone involved in the exciting world of venue management”.

Hosted by VMA Chief Executive, Joel Edmondson, The Next Stage podcast dives into the issues, innovations and opportunities shaping the future of the industry, bringing together insights from leaders, trailblazers and creatives who are pioneering new ways to host, promote, and elevate live experiences.

Episodes will go live on a fortnightly or monthly basis, beginning with a fortnightly series in partnership with Momentus Technologies. In early 2025, The Next Stage will move into a phase of more spontaneous dialogues between Edmonson and venue management influencers from around the world.

Explaining the need for the podcast, the VMA advise “in a time of rapid transformation, the venue industry faces unprecedented changes. From evolving audience expectations and technological advancements to shifting industry dynamics and sustainability challenges, we’re all navigating what comes next. The Next Stage was born from the idea of creating a platform where we can explore these changes collaboratively, openly, and creatively.

“Each episode features in-depth interviews with experts who are not only familiar with the venue industry but are also visionaries in their fields. We're also committed to introducing new voices in our sector who will be the industry leaders of the future. Guests include leaders in technology, entertainment, and business, as well as those who influence trends in urban planning, sustainability, and community building. By bringing in diverse perspectives, we’re able to unpack the complex challenges venues face and discover new ways to address them.”

Topics to be covered in upcoming episodes of The Next Stage will cover:

• Emerging Trends and Technologies: What’s next in the venue space? From ticketing innovations to augmented reality and AI-powered experiences, we’ll explore what’s new and noteworthy.

• Sustainability and Venue Management: As sustainability moves to the forefront, we’ll discuss actionable steps for venues to reduce their carbon footprints, create positive environmental impacts, and future-proof operations.

• Industry Collaboration: With the industry increasingly interconnected, we’ll discuss the power of partnerships - from big-name brands to local communities - and why collaboration is key to future success.

• Audience Expectations and Experiences: In an age where consumer experience is king, what does it take to not only attract audiences but also keep them coming back? We’ll dive into changing audience demographics, the rise of immersive experiences, and more.

• Professional Growth in a Rapidly Changing Industry: What does it mean to be a venue professional today? We’ll cover leadership, resilience, and the skills needed to navigate today’s challenges.

Vision for The Next Stage
With The Next Stage, the VMA aims to go beyond the news of the day to dig into the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of the issues shaping our industry, adding “bringing a brings a unique perspective to these discussions, Edmondson understands the balancing act of leadership in an industry that must innovate without losing sight of its core values and responsibilities. He’s driven by the desire to foster meaningful dialogue that not only informs but also inspires change.

“This podcast is for everyone who is invested in the future of live events and venue management - whether you’re a seasoned professional, an entrepreneur in the space, or someone simply curious about the forces that make venues and live events so impactful. The Next Stage is where we bring those conversations directly to you, creating a space where venue professionals and enthusiasts can learn, grow and connect.

The Next Stage
The Next Stage is available on major streaming platforms including Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcast.

Click on these links to listen:

• Spotify

• YouTube

• Apple Podcast

Images: The Next Stage is available on major streaming platforms (top, credit: Shutterstock) and VMA Chief Executive Joel Edmondson (below, credit: Joseph Byfor).