Ljubljana Talks hosted world-renowned industry experts at IMEX Frankfurt

The hybrid studio of the award-winning podcast returnED to IMEX in 2024

Ljubljana Talks, the award-winning podcast hosted by Jan Oršič, Head of Convention Bureau at Ljubljana Tourism, and Gorazd Čad, Editor in Chief of Kongres Magazine, returned to IMEX Frankfurt 2024. Between 14 and 16 May 2024, Gorazd and Jan hosted over 15 industry experts who will delve into destination management, sustainability, AI and beyond.


The podcast came to life during the pandemic when Jan and Gorazd began hosting a bimonthly online chat where they discussed the event industry with partners from Slovenia and globally. Since then, Ljubljana Talks has become a recognised podcast platform that took place at IMEX, IBTM, Conventa Trade Show, and Conventa Crossover.

Attendees of IMEX in Frankfurt could listen in person at stand C540 or watch the live stream on Kongres Magazine’s YouTube channel.

“Events in Ljubljana facilitate and boost development in the field of science, culture, sports and economy. Events play the role of game changers. We see events not only as a means to multiply financial benefits and achieve constant growth but also as crucial for sustainable development and regeneration. With Ljubljana Talks, we want to spread the message that our capital is the think-tank for the regenerative meetings industry. Ljubljana is a cool place for creative experiences,” said Jan Oršič, Head of Convention Bureau at Ljubljana Tourism.

A slew of pressing topics

This year’s program featured an impressive lineup of speakers, each offering unique insights and expertise. Some of the most anticipated talks included:

  • The philosophy of the creative process when designing extraordinary experiences (Claus Raasted)
  • Behind the scenes: the craft of creating memorable events (Eszter Mattiassich-Aszody, Siemens)
  • Game-Changers in Sustainable Event Transformation (Anna Abdelnoor, Isla)
  • How events shape global change (Colja Dams, VOK DAMS)
  • Navigating success in the world of events (Stephanie Dubois, SAP)
  • Measuring positive change, legacy and regenerative effects of events (Flavie de Bueil, City Destinations Alliance)
  • Exploring the ethical dimensions of travel with Richard Crawford (Richard Crawford, Leave no trace)
  • Responsible industry evolution; Transformation in the spotlight (Bettina Reventlow-Mourier, Copenhagen CVB)
  • Embracing degrowth: rethinking event impact (Geneviève Leclerc, #MEET4IMPACT)
  • Crafting unforgettable experiences: The formula for event excellence (Christian Pöhlmann, fischerAppelt, live marketing GmbH)

This year’s talks aligned with the educational programme at IMEX that offered eye-opening presentations on technology, trends and sustainability.

Ljubljana Talks at IMEX Frankfurt 2024 is made possible by Toleranca marketing and Ljubljana Tourism, with the support of partners IMEX Group and the Slovenian Tourist Board.


See the full schedule of talks here.

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