Fall Theme - Stars of the Stage

Welcome to Music City! This year’s theme is Stars of the Stage so channel your favourite country music legend. Think Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Luke Combs, or even go full cowboy with your western look from last year. The dinner and reception will feature toe-tappin’ tunes and fun activities, promising a night of unforgettable country-style celebration. 

Speakers

Ben Wieder

Ben Wieder has worked at the intersection of brand marketing and the commercial truck industry since 2000. After earning a BS in Marketing from Miami University (Ohio), he held marketing roles at Daimler Truck before founding Level 6 in 2005. His firm has partnered with top industry names like Kenworth, Meritor, and Eaton Cummins. With two decades of experience, Ben is an expert in branding and incentive marketing, specializing in dealer SPIFFs, rebates, and employee rewards. He’s also the author of Sweeten the Pot, a guide to using incentives to drive loyalty and profits. Today, he’s focused on leveraging AI to boost program efficiency. Outside work, Ben serves on the board of the Pinellas Education Foundation in Tampa Bay.

Doug Gray

Following the success of our California session, this powerful follow-up dives even deeper into what truly works in today’s challenging succession environment. Doug will return to share real-world case studies, psychological insights, and hands-on tools tailored for ITPA members facing complex family dynamics. In this session, attendees will learn how to identify succession red flags early and explore the three essential roles every business owner must play, which are often overlooked or avoided. Doug will provide tools to help build both emotional clarity and legal confidence, empowering members to approach transitions with greater stability and intention. He will also introduce new frameworks for governance that move beyond the typical succession plan, offering a more holistic and practical approach for navigating change in family businesses.

David Papp

With recent experience in mergers & acquisitions, due diligence, integration, and technical advisory, David provides strategic guidance to businesses looking to optimize their technology stack, improve resilience, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. His approach is focused on making IT a business enabler rather than just an operational expense.

Spousal Activity

Get ready for an unforgettable experience with two of Nashville’s most talented and award-winning songwriters. Join us for STORIES & SONGS, an intimate Songwriter Round featuring Dave Pahanish and Matt Warren. This special session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the songwriting process as Dave and Matt share the personal stories, inspiration, and moments that brought their hits to life. Whether you're a country music fan or just love a good story, this is a can’t-miss event full of heart, humour, and incredible stories behind the music.