The "Live Music Capitol of the World," Austin, Texas, is preparing to host the 19th annual ISPA Conference & Expo, Oct. 5-8. Dust off your boots and two-step your way to Texas for more than 30 hours of education and hundreds of exhibitors showcasing new products. You'll see state-of-the-art spa equipment, learn how to navigate this economy and be motivated by incredible speakers including seven-time Tour de France winner and Austin's own Lance Armstrong during Thursday's closing General Session.
"Our lives are more hectic today than ever before. We're running at a crazier pace, which is why at this year's conference we're getting back to basics with the theme of Simplify," said ISPA President Lynne McNees. "You'll walk away with tangibles on how to grow your business, persevere through these tough economic times and receive a sense of support knowing your ISPA family is here to help every step of the way."
This year's Conference will include a lively panel with three incredibly talented experts discussing trends and issues facing the industry:
Guy Kawasaki, managing director, Garage Technology Ventures and Forbes columnist
Tony Hsieh, Zappos.com CEO
Jeremy Gutsche, Chief Trend Hunter at trendhunter.com
Conference attendees will also hear from:
J.P. Pawliw-Fry, president and co-founder of the Institute for Health & Human Potential
Ram Charan, a highly sought-after business advisor and speaker famous among senior executives for his business problem-solving abilities
This year four outstanding individuals will be honored, including: Lance Armstrong with the ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award
Armstrong's contributions toward humanitarian efforts are personal, and his passion and drive for cancer research is tireless. He's a survivor who inspires millions by incorporating wellness into his everyday routine as he trains for the upcoming Tour de France.
Dr. Howard Murad with the ISPA Visionary Award
Dr. Murad has contributed significantly toward the definition and positive movement of health and wellness. You may recognize the Murad name on products but Dr. Murad is more than just a brand. With 35 years of research on skin health and wellness, Dr. Murad created the Murad Inclusive Health Center which explores a whole body approach to aging. "I am so blessed to have been able to create a career from my passion for helping people, so proud to be part of an industry that truly makes the world healthier and more beautiful and so grateful to have been recognized by ISPA as a Visionary," said Dr. Murad.
Pat and Juanita Corbett with the ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award
The husband and wife team has been actively involved in the growth of ISPA since the beginning. The Corbetts exemplify the "I" in ISPA through their continuous international outreach and pioneering spa growth around the world. When asked if they'd accept the award the Corbetts said, "We have been sitting here very shocked, stunned, overwhelmed, grateful and thankful for what has happened today and barely know how to express ourselves because of this huge honor." The Corbetts own The Hills Health Ranch, a destination spa in British Columbia.
The Hilton Austin and Austin Convention Center will be hosting the 2009 ISPA Conference & Expo. Everything's bigger in Texas, which means you can't afford to miss this year's event. Register online beginning April 20 at www.experienceispa.com.
