IMEX America 2025 Recap: Connection, Intention, and Breaking Records

mgraziano45
Nov 10
2 min read

Behind the Scenes at IMEX America 2025

The events industry’s biggest U.S. trade show just wrapped, and your Adventures in Business co-hosts were in the thick of it. IMEX America 2025 boasted record-breaking attendance and a high-energy show floor, and in this minisode, Amani and Mandi reflect on everything from unexpected reunions to wellness-focused activations, packed speaking schedules, and how they’re planning to make next year even more intentional.

Mandi’s Week: Full Calendar, Full Heart

Mandi's IMEX was the perfect mix of speaking engagements, networking events, and some well-earned fun. From her Monday keynote at Smart Monday to multiple HPN partner events, she packed each day with high-impact connections and curated conversations. Tuesday was all about walking the floor and connecting with destinations, hotel partners, and clients, plus an F45 workout to start the day. She wrapped her experience with a session at the Future Leaders Forum, where Amani happened to walk in right as she was talking about the power of podcasting. Talk about timing. 

Mandi noted how being thoughtful about her schedule, self-care, and surroundings made all the difference:

Fewer one-on-one appointments = more flexibility to connect meaningfully

Strategic pacing of events helped her maintain energy and engagement

Intentional choices around rest, food, and company allowed for a smooth re-entry post-show

Amani’s Highlights: From DJ Booth to Book Talks

While his time on the show floor was brief, Amani’s presence was anything but. After DJing the opening reception for the SITE Rocky Mountain Chapter on Monday, he headed back to L.A. to teach his classes before returning to Vegas to catch key moments, including Mandi’s session.

He also presented a talk on writing a book, making it relevant not just for authors but for anyone crafting meaningful communication in business. From registration copy to emails, Amani encouraged attendees to think intentionally about how they write and why it matters.

Looking ahead, he’s already thinking about how to deepen his presence at next year’s show, including potential speaking spots on Smart Monday and at the Future Leaders Forum.

Lessons & Takeaways: Curated Connection > Endless Calendars

One major theme they both noticed? A shift from overwhelming “appointment-packed” schedules to more curated, intentional experiences. Smaller group meetups, wellness-focused programming, and creative activations made it easier for attendees to feel grounded and connected.

Highlights included:

Curated mini-experiences within the massive trade show

FitCity Adventures offering booth-to-booth breathing breaks and morning stretch sessions

Visit Hawaii’s booth blessing, honoring indigenous culture and opening the day with intention

Amani and Mandi agreed, carving out time to walk the floor together led to powerful brand moments for the podcast. People recognized them from their screens and wanted to chat. It’s a strategy they plan to replicate and expand next year.