Attendees preferring an active start to the meeting arrived early Wednesday morning to participate in the Golf Tournament at Poipu
Bay Golf Course, or on Cabana Beach for the 5K Fun Run/Walk. Later in the afternoon, attendees gathered at the Ideas Exchange to share
their best sales, marketing and practice management ideas. The evening offered an opportunity to connect with other attendees at the
Welcome Reception, with tables set on the beach at Shipwreck Lagoon.
Thursday
Top of the Table Divisional Vice President Michelle L. Hoesly, CLU, ChFC, welcomed attendees to the meeting from the Main
Platform stage. Futurist Ian Morrison described the emerging business environment and explained how financial professionals can adapt
and thrive in the coming years. MDRT President Guy E. Baker, MSFS, CLU, congratulated members on achieving Top of the Table during the
economic downturn and reminded them that they play a critical role in helping the next generation of advisors find success. Attendees
participated in an Open Session planning exercise by announcing to the audience what their information needs were. The topics were
scheduled for Open Sessions that will meet Friday afternoon.
Friday
During Main Platform, John M. Nicola, CLU, ChFC, told attendees how he managed to grow his practice in this time of economic
crisis. Oncologist Robert Buckman taught attendees how to manage emotions and push-back triggered by change. After a networking lunch,
attendees participated in Open Sessions with topics such as social media and blue ocean strategy concepts. The evening offered the
Hawaiian Harvest Dinner Dance in the Ilima Gardens and the after party at Kuhio's Night Club.
Saturday
The meeting concluded with Saturday morning's Main Platform. Consultant Paul Greenberg introduced attendees to the mindset of
the 21st century consumer and offered advice in engaging them. Investment advisor Peter Schiff advised producers to be cautious of the
U.S. dollar's future value when protecting their own wealth and the finances of their clients. Incoming Top of the Table Divisional Vice
President W. Luther Pierce IV, CLU, discussed plans for the coming year, including a mentoring initiative to help Court of the Table
members reach Top of the Table production levels. He invited attendees to join him at next year's meeting in Naples, Florida.
