Inside SXSW: 35 Years of Community, Creativity, and Constant Reinvention with Hugh Forrest

Send us a textHugh Forrest, transformative leader of SXSW and founder of Gather and Grow, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to share how a local music festival became a global hub for technology, culture, and creativity. From building community to reinventing live experiences, Hugh reveals what it takes to lead in the event industry—and what’s next for 2025 and beyond.We'll talk about:How Hugh Forrest grew SXSW from a local music event into a global cultural powerhouseLessons from 35 years of building one of the world’s most influential conferences and festivalsWhy scale can challenge community—and how SXSW kept connection at the centerThe evolution of events into experiences, and what today’s audiences really wantHow the “panel picker” gave SXSW its edge in fresh talent and diverse voicesHugh’s leadership philosophy: listening to community feedback, embracing pivots, and learning from failuresHugh’s new chapter with Gather and Grow—consulting for global organizations and teaching community-focused event strategyFor more information, visit Hugh Forrest's LinkedIn.Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter.Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:Instagram: @laraschmoismanFacebook: @LaraSchmoismanSupport the show

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