The Art of Breaking the Ice with special guest Shideh Doerr, founder of Jabberyak.

Welcome to The Expo Factor—the podcast that dives beneath the surface of trade show success to explore what really drives results: human connection, communication, and meaningful engagement.

In this episode, your host Lee Ali is joined by Shideh Doerr, networking innovator and founder of Jabberyak, a conversation-sparking tool designed to help people connect authentically at events. Together, they break down the emotional rollercoaster of networking, from the fear of saying hello to the magic of forming relationships that actually last beyond the badge scan.

Shideh shares the lightbulb moment that led to the creation of Jabriak, born out of a chance conversation on a cruise ship, and how it's now helping reshape networking experiences from awkward and transactional to open and transformative.

💡 In this episode, we explore:

• Why networking events can feel emotionally exhausting—and what to do about it

• How to move from transactional chats to relationship-driven conversations

• Why breaking the ice is more than small talk—it’s a skill every professional should master

• The role of event organisers in designing inclusive and engaging networking environments

• How to reduce anxiety and increase authenticity at events

• The power of creative icebreakers to spark real connections

• How Jabriak is changing the game by giving people “permission” to start meaningful conversations

• Why turning down the music might be the best decision you make as an organiser

Shideh also shares practical tips for attendees and organisers alike, with examples of what not to do, and how a shift in mindset (and event design) can help everyone leave with stronger connections and better outcomes.

Whether you’re an event planner, exhibitor, host, or simply someone who dreads networking—this episode will help you rethink how we connect, one conversation at a time.

🎯 Key themes:
Networking · Icebreakers · Human Connection · Event Design · Event Planning · Jabriak · Engagement Strategy · Relationship Building · Authenticity · Trade Show Experience · Professional Development · Anxiety Reduction · Communication Skills · Inclusive Events

🗣️ Featured Guest:
Shideh Doerr
Founder of Jabberyak
🌐 www.jabberyak.com

Hosted by Lee Ali, founder of ⁠Expo Stars Interactive.

🎧 Subscribe now for more episodes exploring how to turn booths into experiences, visitors into advocates, and trade shows into true business opportunities—powered by the people behind the performance.

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