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2024 RLPSA Conference Recap
 By
Amber Bradley, Executive Director of
RLPSA
The 2024 RLPSA Annual Conference transformed Las Vegas into a high-stakes arena
of innovation, and inspiration. Taking place at the M Resort & Spa from March
24th to 27th, this gathering was not just a meeting of the minds but a vibrant
collaboration between restaurant loss prevention, safety, and risk professionals
and top industry solutions providers. With a record-breaking confluence of
industry powerhouses and a jackpot of knowledge and networking opportunities,
this event proved to be an unforgettable convergence under the neon lights of
the entertainment capital.
 Day
1 set the tone with an electrifying vibe that only Vegas could conjure. Harry
Thomas Jr and Rob Holm, both representing McDonald's, took center stage with
their fireside chat, illuminating the vital interplay between security, safety,
and risk teams. Their conversation unfolded a wide range of insights, each
serving up deep understanding and strategies for collaboration that resonated
with every attendee. The excitement peaked with sessions on OSHA & Workplace
Violence Programs, where Susan Wiltsie dug into new safety regulations. Dan
Moren from Starbucks and expert panelists then turned legal theory into
practical application, demonstrating powerful, real-world strategies aimed at
positioning restaurants ahead of the new regulations.
 The
day's narrative took an impactful turn with the "Workplace Violence Training
That Actually Works" breakout session. Led by Sruthy Kuruvilla and Heather Hearn
with Amber Bradley moderating, this session captivated a standing-room-only
audience. It shone a spotlight on McDonald's and Wawa's innovative approaches to
training & awareness, demonstrating that the right methodologies not only
safeguard teams but also bolster the bottom line. This powerful discussion was a
shining example of how proactive measures in safety and loss prevention can lead
to substantial benefits for both employees and organizations alike.
Following this enlightening session, the conference atmosphere seamlessly
transitioned as the neon twilight descended, and the exhibit floor morphed into
a Tailgate Mania playground. With an array of games from Basketball to Cornhole,
the RLPSA community embraced a spirit of friendly competition. This unique blend
of serious learning and lighthearted fun underscored a key message of the day:
In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, the stakes are always high, but so are the
rewards, whether tackling crucial workplace challenges or enjoying a moment of
community and fun.
 As
dawn broke on Day 2, the conference hit the jackpot with a morning session that
transported attendees to the "Restaurant of the Near-Future." Adit Chhabra,
Jerry Phillips, and Kris Moeller, under Scott Elkins' expert moderation,
unveiled a future where AI and technology reign supreme in enhancing customer
satisfaction, food safety, and operational efficiency. The breakout sessions
that followed were a royal flush of knowledge, covering everything from
ergonomics in the kitchen to combating fraud and refining interviewing
techniques.
The afternoon's breakout sessions doubled down on this winning streak, delving
into the pressing challenges of psychological safety, combating workers'
compensation fraud, and navigating the complexities of 3rd party chargebacks.
Each session, a card well played, demonstrated the RLPSA's “ALL IN” commitment
to tackling the industry's most daunting challenges head-on.
 As
the RLPSA annual conference reached its crescendo, Julius Thomas, 2x pro-bowler
and cognitive scientist took the stage, bringing a powerhouse close to an event
already brimming with highlights. His keynote wasn't just a talk; it was a
performance - a strategic play that went beyond mere motivation to tackle the
game of life head-on. Julius went ALL IN on the essentials of peak performance,
resilience, and mental health, presenting a roadmap for attendees eager to
elevate their personal and professional selves. Armed with insights from the
pinnacle of athletic achievement, he shared systematic skills and mental
strategies employed by the world's top performers. This closing session was a
vivid reminder that going ALL IN on ourselves isn't just about meeting goals;
it's about setting new standards for excellence and well-being in every arena of
our lives.
Day 3, the grand finale, was a full house of innovation and forward-thinking
strategies. The day’s roundtable sessions delved deep into pragmatic solutions
for vagrancy, the intricacies of Narcan mandates, and the future of safety and
loss prevention training. These discussions were not just about addressing
today’s challenges but reshaping tomorrow’s strategies, ensuring that disruptive
behavior, public health, and training evolve to meet the ever-changing landscape
of the restaurant industry.
As the conference curtains closed, the RLPSA Conference left its mark not just
on the bright lights of Vegas but on the hearts and minds of all who attended.
With a deck stacked with insights, innovations, and inspirations, this gathering
was a testament to the power of collective expertise, the thrill of shared
discovery, and the unyielding commitment to elevating the industry to new
heights.
In the city known for its spectacles, the 2024 RLPSA Conference was indeed the
main attraction, proving that when it comes to the future of restaurant loss
prevention, safety, and risk management, we’re ALL IN for innovation,
collaboration, and making a lasting impact. Here's to the next gathering, where
the bets are even higher, and the rewards even greater. Until then, what happens
in Vegas will not stay in Vegas but will resonate across the industry, inspiring
action, and fostering growth.
RLPSA
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