Joseph

Rivers

A person standing on a snowy crosswalk with a coffee cup, in front of a historic brick building.

Experiential Strategist
Behavioral-Led Brand Storyteller
Client Experience Architect


PHILOSOPHY

I’m Joseph Rivers, an experiential enthusiast dedicated to turning insight into impact. My mission is to create brand experiences that don’t just impress — but connect. As a seasoned experiential marketer and thought leader, my philosophy has a distinctive perspective honed through diverse roles and global exploration. Transitioning from brand activation and tour management to business development and strategic application, my journey has been characterized by thoughtful investigation into how experiences impact our physical and emotional well-being.

I specialize in blending behavioral science, emotional intelligence, and cultural storytelling to shape immersive B2B and B2C experiences. Whether I’m writing trend reports, hosting industry podcasts, or walking or attending an event across the globe, I’m focused on one thing: helping brands be felt, remembered, and acted upon.

The most dangerous phrase in the English language is "We've always done it this way".


TESTIMONIALS

  • Joe is a remarkable experiential marketing leader, dedicated to translating insight into impact and creating experiences for brands that don't just impress, but connect. Prior to marketing, Joe actually started as a tour manager—he understands culture and how the industry operates. Today, he writes trend reports, hosts industry podcasts, and connects colleagues from around the globe. His superpowers are problem solving and authenticity. His passion, enthusiasm, and work ethic is top-tier. And he will 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 jump in to help without asking for anything in return.

    Matt Kerbel (Global Head of Brand)

  • “Joe Rivers, he goes to every experiential event - Art Basel, Cannes Lions, CES, SXSW, is an analyst on experiential strategy. Talking about brand activations that are coming to life, what was working, what didn’t work, what hit the mark, and what we are seeing in the industry. I would not be building brand activation without his insight and guidance.”

    Nicola K. (CEO, Event Leaders Exchange)

  • “Authenticity is his superpower. Joe Rivers reached out to me as a cold message on LinkedIn, and his manners and demeanor grabbed my attention and warranted a connection. Since then, a friend and amazing beacon in the industry.”

    Monique R. (Chief Program Strategist Officer, TED)

  • Joe’s passion for creating impactful experiences is evident in every project he undertakes. His expertise in this field is unmatched, and his ability to innovate and deliver exceptional results has made him a go-to expert in the industry. I now find myself turning to Joe for advice, knowing that his insights are invaluable. I’m incredibly proud of all that Joe has accomplished, and I have no doubt that he will continue to be a trailblazer in experiential marketing.”

    Zachary S (Founder, Agency 15)

Experiential Resume

Experiential Resume