If you had 15 hours on the road with one person in propane, who would you choose?
Who would win the coveted shotgun seat? That was just one of many fun and thoughtful questions posed during the Women in Propane (WIP) Through the Leadership Lens LIVE Podcast at this year’s NPGA Expo, and it set the tone for an event full of winning conversations, energy, and meaningful connections.
From the opening sessions to the conversations happening across the floor, the 2026 NPGA Southeastern & International Expo felt like a win.
Beth Gasser, owner of Vivid Image, “One of my favorite things about the expo was seeing how deeply engaged people were in conversation. If you had to wait or come back later, it was only because the level of connection and engagement was so high. I have never seen anything quite like it.” That kind of atmosphere shaped the entire experience. Conversations felt meaningful, selfies marked happy reconnecting, and every space reflected how deeply people care about the future of the industry.
“Seeing our clients in person is always special, and if there’s time for a selfie too, that’s a win in itself.” Heidi Arndt, Account Director at Vivid Image, Inc. with Tom of Newport Propane
That was especially true during the WIP Through the Leadership Lens LIVE Podcast. Moderated by Jessica Sheehan-Balderson and Freddie Ridler, of Rural Computer Consultants, the session featured Steve Kaminski, Nancy Coop, Kim Folger, and Warren Patterson. The room was full, the audience was engaged, and the discussion delivered the kind of practical leadership insight that makes everyone listening feel like a winner. The conversation drew on years of lived experience and generous advice, reminding attendees of the wisdom in this industry.
The announcement that our Fueling the Future book is officially going to print was an exciting moment for the Vivid Image team. Interest from propane marketers who helped shape the book with their insights and stories, along with early sign-ups at the booth, made it feel like an early win for smaller propane companies looking for practical marketing guidance.
Leadership Remained a Winning Theme Throughout Expo
The inaugural Nancy Coop Leadership Award was established to recognize an exceptional individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership, dedication, and impact within the propane industry. One of Expo’s winning moments was celebrating Kirsten McAlpin of Conger LP Gas as she was recognized as Young Professional of the Year. Congratulations to the other finalists as well.
Congratulations, Kirsten!
LPGas Hall of Fame
Another standout moment came at the LP Gas Hall of Fame event on Saturday night, where Brian Sheehan, Joe Armentano, Bob Barry, and Denis Gagne were inducted. Heidi Arndt, Vivid Image Account Director, was there to celebrate with Brian and the Rural Computer Consultants team and Brian’s family, and for her, it was one of the highlights of Expo. “I enjoyed getting to see the NPGA SE Expo in action! I’ve heard about this show often and how it is the place to be to meet people in the propane industry, and it didn’t disappoint,” she said. “I was able to meet many people in the propane industry – propane marketers, other businesses in the industry, and organizations that support the industry.”
Author Sean Hand led the WIP Leadership Forum intensive training, Fueling Growth from Within: Strengthening Trust, Visibility, and Influence Across the Propane Industry, and offered clear advice for those who want to win more sales by building better relationships. Among the most valuable reminders were to tell stories with purpose, making sure the key information is built into the story itself, and to develop consistent habits of follow-up through thank-you notes, emails, and even texts. Focusing on relationships is always winning advice!
“Always ask about vacation plans!” ~ Sean Hand
Seeing Our Clients is Always a Winning Moment
Cegi Wassman, Account Director at Vivid Image, “I loved meeting new people, learning a bit about their business, and offering our assistance to help with one of their pain points. Sometimes, educating businesses that they have more than one option when it comes to website and marketing. Also, seeing friendly faces of our current clients is always a plus, like when Haley and Kayla surprised us with a visit!” Those moments represent a special kind of win, helping rural, independent, and family-owned businesses feel supported and equipped with new possibilities.
Everyone in Attendance Was a Winner!
Heidi also noted how meaningful it was to see work come to life in person. “I appreciated the chance to see so many of the projects we help RCC create throughout the year come to life at Expo!”
The best of the 2026 NPGA Expo was found on stage sharing wisdom, in the audience soaking it in, in the booths building relationships, and in the conversations happening in every corner of the event. Some wins were formal and celebrated. Others were quieter, found in new connections, shared encouragement, and fresh ideas.
