PCMA NYC Winter Session 2025
Playfully Engaging Event Professionals
Building Meaningful Connections Through Play: How LEGO® Energized PCMA NYC's Winter Program
The room buzzed with energy as over 100 event industry professionals gathered for PCMA NYC's winter program. Instead of the typical networking format, attendees found tables adorned with colorful LEGO bricks and an invitation to play with purpose. Following a successful session with the Philadelphia chapter, Brandon Wetzstein of IN8 Create was invited to bring his innovative approach to New York, transforming how these industry veterans connected with one another.
Breaking Down Barriers Brick by Brick
For event professionals who orchestrate meaningful experiences for others, it was refreshing to be on the receiving end of such thoughtful engagement. The 90-minute session utilized LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® methodology, a facilitated thinking and communication tool that helps teams explore complex ideas through metaphor and storytelling.
"The magic happens when we move beyond surface-level interactions," explains Wetzstein. "When people build and share stories about how they entered the events industry or their vision for its future, they reveal parts of themselves that would rarely emerge in typical networking settings."
The Power of Metaphorical Storytelling
Throughout the session, participants constructed models representing their professional journeys, including how they discovered the events industry, memorable career moments, and their hopes for the industry's future. These physical models served as powerful conversation starters, with metaphors unlocking deeper discussions than standard introductions ever could.
The methodology works through a simple but profound process: participants respond to thought-provoking questions by building LEGO models, then sharing the stories behind their creations. This approach equalizes voices in the room—everyone builds, everyone shares—creating an inclusive environment where even the most introverted participants feel comfortable contributing.
Creating Lasting Connections
What made this approach particularly effective for event professionals was its demonstration of an engagement technique they could potentially apply in their own work. As participants shared their models, laughter filled the room, cameras captured proud creations, and genuine connections formed between people who had been strangers just minutes before.
The results spoke volumes: 96% of participants rated the presentation as effective or highly effective. Many proudly shared their creations on social media, extending the experience beyond the physical event and showcasing the enthusiasm generated through this unique approach.
Experience the Power of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® at Your Next Event
What if your next corporate event, team building session, or conference breakout could generate this same level of engagement and meaningful connection? IN8 Create specializes in designing custom LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® experiences that transform how people connect, collaborate, and communicate.
Whether you're looking to deepen team relationships, explore organizational challenges, or simply create a memorable experience at your next industry gathering, Brandon Wetzstein and the IN8 Create team can craft a session tailored to your specific objectives.
Ready to build something memorable at your next event? Contact IN8 Create to discuss how a customized LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® session can transform your gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.
We have facilitators in New York City, San Francisco, Austin, Tampa Bay, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Tampa Bay, San Diego, and more! Contact us for more information and session options.
