What does it take to create a truly transformational experience—not just an event? In this special episode, Joel Pilger sits down with Paradiso co-founders Hector Ayuso and Marko Pfann to unpack the heart, hustle, and human connection behind this one-of-a-kind gathering in Mérida, Mexico.
Born from a dream—and a desire to break all the traditional “conference” rules—Paradiso set out to eliminate the divide between speaker and audience, to prioritize intimacy over scale, and to create the kind of creative connection that changes lives.
Together, Hector and Marko reflect on the inspiration behind Paradiso, the challenges they overcame to make it happen, and why staying small and intentional is the key to its magic. From school trip nostalgia to raw artistic expression, this episode captures the spirit of a creative community redefining what’s possible when we gather.
And yes… next year is already in motion.
🎟️ Explore Paradiso 2026:
https://paradisofest.com/
What is Fabulist?
Go behind the scenes of the world’s most disruptive studios and production companies — to discover the business stories fueling these industry creative powerhouses.
Hi, I’m Joel. I lead the global movement of studios mastering the art of the business. Whether you run a studio in motion, animation, live action, sound, or experiential, this is the show unlike any other. Join the movement at http://joelpilger.com.
Huge thanks to our awesome audio production partner, Coupe Studios. Learn more at coupestudios.com.
© 2019–2025 JPMP