Jennifer Dienst

Although the new executive order grants a number of exceptions, an unfriendly air persists. Right now, we'll have to wait and see to accurately gauge the damage done to the U.S. meetings industry.

Besides stripping away the fundamental rights of an already marginalized group, the stack of "Bathroom Bills" piling up in state legislatures around the country will only drive away meetings and conventions, and the valuable economic income they bring with them.

The work-from-anywhere force is on the rise, but face-to-face time with co-workers remains vital. For their internal gatherings, some remote teams have found co-living spaces can offer a better environment for bonding than traditional meeting venues.

Right now, it means polarization, little conversation, and a lot of anxiety.