Announcing the Keynote Speakers for the 25th Annual VGM Heartland Conference

Published in Member Communities on May 07, 2026

For the 25th anniversary of the VGM Heartland Conference, VGM & Associates is bringing two powerful voices to the stage. David Atkins and Joe Delagrave have been announced as the keynote speakers for this milestone event, taking place June 8–10, 2026, in Waterloo, Iowa.

Celebrating 25 Years of Leadership, Education, and Connection

For 25 years, the VGM Heartland Conference has served as a cornerstone event for professionals across the home medical equipment (HME), respiratory, sleep therapy, wound care, complex rehab technology (CRT), and home healthcare communities. The 2026 conference continues that legacy with a lineup focused on resilience, leadership development, purpose-driven decision-making, and professional growth.

This year’s keynote speakers were selected to reflect both the history of Heartland and the future of our industry, challenging attendees to think bigger, lead stronger, and embrace what’s next.

David Atkins: One Decision Can Change Everything

David Atkins, retired New York State Police captain, 9/11 first responder, entrepreneur, and #1 bestselling author of “The One Decision Away Philosophy,” will deliver the opening keynote on Tuesday, June 9, at 8:30 a.m. CT.

Atkins is known for helping audiences recognize how a single courageous decision can shift momentum, both personally and professionally. Drawing from real-world leadership experiences, his message focuses on:

Clarity and confidence in leadership
Resilience under pressure
Practical decision-making tools for lasting growth

His keynote will challenge attendees across the healthcare spectrum to rethink how they respond to uncertainty and lead with intention.

Joe Delagrave: Resilience, Purpose, and Transformational Leadership

Taking the stage Wednesday, June 10, at 8 a.m. CT, Joe Delagrave brings a compelling story of perseverance and transformation. A two-time Paralympic medalist and head coach of the U.S. Wheelchair Rugby Team, Delagrave’s journey began after a boating accident left him paralyzed at age 19.

Since then, he has become one of the most respected leaders in wheelchair rugby, earning:

Paralympic medals
World Championship gold
Parapan Games gold

With experience in consulting and counseling, Delagrave connects lessons from elite sports, leadership, and life, offering a keynote that resonates with healthcare professionals committed to adaptability, empathy, and purpose-driven leadership.

Why These Keynotes Matter for the Home Healthcare Industry

“Heartland has always been about more than education. It’s about connection, collaboration, and momentum,” said Shanon Eckhardt, Heartland Pillar Chair. “As we celebrate 25 years, Atkins and Delagrave are the perfect voices to help set the tone for what’s next, encouraging our community to think bigger, lead stronger, and continue advancing care at home.”

Their messages align with the challenges and opportunities facing today’s providers, from regulatory pressures and workforce concerns to innovation, leadership development, and evolving patient needs.

What to Expect at the 2026 VGM Heartland Conference

In addition to two high-impact keynotes, Heartland 2026 will feature:

60+ educational sessions and panels
Topics including billing and compliance, business operations, CRT, respiratory, leadership development, integrated health and policy, sales and marketing, and emerging industry trends
Opportunities to earn CEUs
Peer-to-peer learning with professionals from across the country

Whether you’re focused on operational efficiency, clinical excellence, or long-term growth, Heartland delivers actionable insights you can take back to your business.

Register Now for Heartland 2026

Registration for the 2026 VGM Heartland Conference is now open. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a milestone celebration and to gain inspiration, education, and connection that move your business forward.

Click here to register today.

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