Finding “That One Thing” at the 2025 NAB Show…
Eivind Sandstrand
A business technologist that speaks the languages of geek, product, sales, marketing, and strategy. Innovation and Thought Leadership, Solutions Design, Media Supply Chain Technology,
Every April, tens of thousands of us from across the globe land in Las Vegas for one of the busiest weeks in the media and entertainment calendar — the NAB Show. It’s a logistical masterpiece and an exhausting sprint: days packed with back-to-back meetings, product demos, strategy sessions, and the occasional dash from South Hall to North to West and back again.
We all come to NAB with goals. Some chase partnerships, others scout for new tech, and many of us just hope for that one great meeting or unexpected conversation that makes the flight, the hotel nights, and the caffeine overload worth it. But the truth is, in the middle of all the noise and pressure, those human moments can get buried.
That’s why we are hosting Escape the Sell.
Some years back, my friend Ben Davenport and I wanted something different. No casinos. No sales decks. No badges. No shouting over music in a crowded bar. Just an evening where we could relax, catch up with friends old and new, and meet fellow industry folks without the hustle.
We found the “Freakin’ Frog” – an oasis in a desert of bland beer and loud venues. A little strip-mall placed, windowless place with a walk-in fridge the size of a large NAB stand – filled with the best beer from around the world. Upstairs was a Whisky Loft. And many of our friends joined us and much fun was had. Even a little jazz piano music. But, alas, the Frog died many years ago, and the “Friends and Partners” event died with it.
We revived the event in 2024 on a whim, calling it “Escape the Sell”, thinking it might just be the two of us sharing a quiet pint. Instead, more than 60 people dropped by, and we were reminded that sometimes, the best connections happen when you're not trying to pitch anything.
So this year, Escape the Sell is back — and bigger!
📍 We’re gathering at Able Baker Brewing Company, a chill local spot away from the Strip noise, in the Arts District. There’ll be award-winning craft beer, street food, and, most importantly, good people and good conversation.
🗓️ April 7th, from 7:00 PM. Come when you can, leave when you want.
If you want to join us, please RSVP here so we can give the venue a heads-up: https://escapethesell.net
Let’s hit pause on the sales pitches and just hang out. You never know… that one real conversation you’ve been chasing all week might just happen when you’re not trying to sell.
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