What to Expect at the 2025 Fall IBO Conference — Atlanta, October 7–10
The countdown is on! I believe the greatest value we have as independent operators is each other. Every time we gather, I’m reminded how much stronger we become when we share ideas, swap solutions, and build relationships. That’s exactly what the IBO Conference is all about.
From October 7–10, we’ll come together in Atlanta for four days of learning, networking, and fun. The conference opens with our Annual Golf Tournament—a tradition that’s less about the score and more about starting conversations (unless you ask Robert Arnold lol). That evening, our Meet & Greet Happy Hour sets the tone for the week: casual, welcoming, and full of opportunity to connect.
A Program Shaped by Operators
Across the sessions, you’ll hear directly from people who live and breathe the business of out-of-home every day. Expect practical discussions on creative approvals, sales strategies, operational efficiency, leadership, and the fast-moving world of AI. Highlights include:
Highlights throughout the day include:
- Getting Good Creative Approved- Todd Turner and Richard Molinaro, Co Owners of Up To Something
- AI in OOH: Zachary Zimbler on practical, real-world AI applications.
- IBO Speedway Showcase: Becky Smith with a panel of operators demonstrating tools in action.
- Sales Strategies: Kevin Gephart with nimble approaches to local sales.
- Bridging Generations: Janea McDonald on communication skills across age groups.
- Legislative Update: Andy McDonald’s OAAA briefing.
- Leadership Wisdom: Bill Lodzinski’s mix of sales, leadership, and life lessons.
- Operational Efficiencies: A panel with Mike Donaldson, Tony Mariani, and others on futureproofing operations.
The evening brings a Vendor Hall Happy Hour and a lively night at PuttShack, featuring mini-golf, dinner, and networking.
Collaboration & Global Strategy 🌍
The mid-week programming looks outward and forward. Round Table Discussions remain a cornerstone, giving operators space to swap solutions and share what’s working as this will be how we begin the day. Global perspectives also take the stage, with sessions on international OOH trends, cross-channel media, and candid conversations about AI.
Sessions continue with:
- Wealth Maximization: A dealmakers’ discussion led by John Weller with Max Drachman and Gabe Oliverio.
- Legal Strategies: Rothfelder & Falick on permitting, negotiation, and compliance.
- AI in OOH: Jonathan Graviss moderates a candid panel on what’s working (and what isn’t).
- Global Intelligence, Local Intent: Henrietta Shakespeare explores global OOH trends and their US impact.
- Cross-Channel Media: Matt Hood dives into how OOH is being reshaped by OTT/CTV and programmatic.
The day closes with a Vendor Hall Happy Hour and dinner at Culinary Dropout.
The final morning offers breakout round tables—a chance to tie up loose ends, test new ideas, and take home strategies you can put into action immediately.
Of course, the learning doesn’t only happen in the sessions. Networking is built into every part of the agenda—whether it’s during Vendor Hall Happy Hours, or evenings out at venues like PuttShack and Culinary Dropout. These moments of connection are where real collaboration begins.
If you’ve been considering attending, I encourage you to join us. This isn’t just another industry event—it’s a chance to be part of a community that grows stronger together.
Register for the Fall Conference here – https://ibomembers.org/events/128594
I hope to see you in Atlanta!
