This feature is sponsored by Gladiator Productions, a new kind of production company igniting magic in the arena of live events, entertainment, and experience. We consistently partner with our clients by providing high-touch service through every step of the production process.
The experiential producers on this year's Industry Innovators list all define "innovation" a little differently. Canva's Jimmy Knowles calls it "a state of creative restlessness." Creative Riff's Ryan Coan says, "It’s not just about being different; it’s about being better." And for MAS's Mia Choi, "It’s about being provocative, breaking rules, and burning down your last great idea to get to a new one."
One thing they all agree on? Innovation is a team sport. "It happens in the chaos of collaboration, in the group chat at 10 p.m., or on site when someone has a genius idea in the middle of an install. That’s the good stuff," says Crown & Conquer's Katie (Limle) Fiore.
Read on to meet our 2025 class of experiential-industry innovators—including how they got their start, the moments that shaped their careers, where they see the industry headed, and the bold projects they’re tackling next.
Ajith Krishnankutty
Vice President of Experiential Marketing, Capital GroupDana Darley Daily
Senior Manager of Whiskey Portfolio Events, Heaven Hill BrandsDwayne Guzman Barnett
Executive Vice President, 15|40Jimmy Knowles
Global Head of Experiential Marketing, CanvaKatie (Limle) Fiore
Head of Production, Crown & ConquerMia Choi
Founder and President, MASRyan Coan
Founder and CEO, Creative RiffSami Saaud
Founder and Chief Creative Officer, No Filter CreativeSarah Sebastian
Owner and Creative Director, Rose Gold CollectiveTamara Francois and Adolfo Vasquez
Co-Founders, The XP AgencyWant to hear more from these innovators? Join us Aug. 25-27 in Miami at the inaugural BizBash Innovation Forum. Along with a panel of innovators from the past two years, this event will explore the biggest questions facing our industry—from education on event innovation and emerging technologies to experiential strategy, audience engagement, brand storytelling, ROI measurement, and everything in between.
About the list:
Our Industry Innovators features are compiled by our editorial team using a variety of resources. (While our features may be sponsored by standout companies, to ensure our lists remain impartial, sponsors do not have the ability to review or curate any part themselves.)The idea is to go beyond the biggest names in the biz—though it has plenty of those too—and dig deep into the industry professionals who are using truly innovative thinking to push the boundaries of live experiences. If someone has previously been named a BizBash Innovator, they are not eligible for the list. Check out our full Industry Innovators Hall of Fame here!
