🎧 Episode 41: The Top Hospitality Events You Need to Attend This Year

In this solo episode, Cody breaks down the top hospitality conferences and networking events every hotel owner, operator, and hospitality professional should have on their radar this year.

Whether you're looking to grow your network, discover new technology, stay ahead of industry trends, or simply surround yourself with other passionate hospitality leaders—these events can completely change the trajectory of your business.

Cody shares where he’ll be, what makes each event unique, and how to maximize the value of attending.

🔹 1. Independent Lodging Congress (ILC)
📍 Jackson, Wyoming
📅 June 23–24

👉 https://ilcongress.com/

ILC has become one of the premier gatherings for independent hospitality leaders, boutique operators, and industry creatives. Cody breaks down why this event stands out:

•  Incredible networking 
•  Boutique hotel innovation 
•  Forward-thinking conversations 
•  High-level independent hospitality operators 

👉 If you’re passionate about boutique hospitality, this is a must-attend event.

🔹 2. HITEC 2026
📍 San Antonio, Texas
📅 June 15–18

👉 https://www.hitec.org/

Technology is shaping the future of hospitality faster than ever—and HITEC remains the industry’s leading hospitality technology conference.

Cody shares why HITEC matters:

•  Hotel technology trends 
•  AI in hospitality 
•  Operations software 
•  Revenue and guest experience tools 
•  Networking with hospitality tech leaders 

👉 This is where you go to see where the industry is heading next.

🔹 3. BITAC Events
👉 https://bitac.net/Event/Calendar

Cody also highlights the growing impact of BITAC events and why they continue to be some of the most valuable networking experiences in hospitality.

What makes BITAC unique:

•  Curated one-on-one meetings 
•  High-quality executive networking 
•  Real business development opportunities 
•  Smaller, more intentional event environments 

Cody also shares insight from his experience serving as Master of Ceremonies at multiple BITAC events this year.

🔹 4. Independent Hotel Show Miami
📍 Miami, Florida
📅 September 16–17

👉 https://independenthotelshow.us/

One of the fastest-growing hospitality events in the country, the Independent Hotel Show focuses specifically on boutique, luxury, and independent hotel operators.

Cody discusses:

•  Why independent hospitality is booming 
•  The value of the vendor and education experience 
•  Why networking at this event feels different 

🎟️ Use Promo Code: CODY26 for FREE entry

🔹 Closing Thoughts
Cody wraps the episode by encouraging listeners to invest in themselves and their network.

👉 Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs in hospitality happen outside your property.

Whether you’re an owner, GM, marketer, designer, or supplier—these events are opportunities to:

•  Learn faster 
•  Build stronger relationships 
•  Stay inspired 
•  And grow your business

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