UPDATED January 13, 2026
Game Changers take the stage at the NAHB International Builders Show® (IBS) to challenge how you think, lead and do business. These experts and influential voices bring sharp insights, fresh strategies and real-world solutions that push you to rethink the status quo and build smarter, stronger and better than before.
NEW Game Changers Format Hits Orlando
We’re pairing an industry pro with an expert outside the industry to tailor the latest techniques, strategies and approaches to the building industry. It’s the best way to experience the best of both worlds – the business world and the building world. They’re going to revolutionize the way you approach critical residential construction issues.
Kelley Earnhardt Miller & Alaina Money-Garman: Lead Differently to Drive Performance
Tuesday, February 17 | 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
OCCC – West Hall F3 – Tangerine Ballroom – Spotlight Room
Kelley Earnhardt Miller kicks off the first day of IBS 2026 as our Game Changer speaker, joining forces with Alaina Money-Garman from Garman Homes, for a compelling conversation on how leadership and culture directly drive business performance. A true force in motorsports and business, Kelley leads JR Motorsports’ race teams, management and business ventures, building championship-winning multigenerational teams and driving strategic growth. Recognized as one of NASCAR’s most influential businesswomen, she’ll share her insights, experiences and lessons in leadership and innovation.
Jon Taffer & Gene Myers: Building Competitive Advantage
Wednesday, February 18 | 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
OCCC – West Hall F3 – Tangerine Ballroom – Spotlight Room
Jon Taffer, the entrepreneur, TV personality and business strategist behind Bar Rescue, joins Gene Myers, founder of Thrive Home Builders, for a candid look at how smart differentiation helps businesses thrive even during times of uncertainty. Jon brings his no-excuses approach to business performance and four decades of experience to show why, at the end of the day, all your problems are revenue problems.
With home builders facing rising costs, labor shortages, fierce competition and customers who expect more than ever, Jon will break down how disciplined systems, clear team expectations, stronger customer experience and smarter brand positioning turn challenging markets into growth markets. He’ll share the operational moves and leadership habits he’s used to help hundreds of businesses increase revenue, tighten margins and create real competitive advantage.
Thursday Game Changer: Lee Thomas Miller
Thursday, February 19 | 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
OCCC – West Hall F3 – Tangerine Ballroom – Spotlight Room
The final Game Changers session brings the week full circle with a jolt of creative inspiration from one of Nashville’s most versatile songwriters, Lee Thomas Miller. He’s known for his chart-topping work, including writing songs for Tim McGraw, Garth Brooks, Chris Stapleton and Brothers Osborne. Yes, the same Brothers Osborne who will close out the show at the IBS Closing Concert that very night. Lee will explore how storytelling, authenticity, collaboration and resilience fuel breakthrough ideas, whether you’re building a brand, building trust with buyers or building a home. Expect an energizing look at the mindset behind great work and a perspective that pairs perfectly with the show’s grand finale.
Register for an Expo+Education Pass to attend Game Changers sessions, choose from another 130+ IBS Education sessions and 1,700+ exhibitors on the show floor.