RTRX—the leadership and innovation event founded by Jimmy Merkel, co-founder and CEO of Rockbridge—has revealed its first speakers for the 2026 event.
Headlining the group of presenters is Leslie Odom, Jr., Monica Lewinsky, Jeremy Bloom and Spencer Gerrol. Scheduled for July 28–30, in Columbus, Ohio, the event is expected to convene more than 1,000 leaders from hospitality companies and Fortune 500 organizations for a program focused on leadership, business performance and cross-industry collaboration.
Organizers said the 2026 speaker lineup reflects a range of perspectives across culture, business, technology and human behavior, with additional speakers and programming to be announced.
“RTRX brings together leaders who believe the best ideas often come from challenging assumptions and looking at problems differently,” Merkel said in a statement. “It’s a place where innovators, builders and decision-makers come together to share real insights and push each other to think bigger about what’s possible for business and community.”
The event’s framework draws on hospitality principles such as service, connection and experience, applied to leadership development across sectors. Previous attendees have included executives from companies such as Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Aimbridge Hospitality, Makeready, HVMG and HRI Hospitality, as well as professionals from technology, finance, healthcare and the public sector.
Since its inception in 2012, RTRX has contributed more than $7 million to cancer research initiatives.