@Terri B.As always, "it depends" truly case by case I'm assuming the speaker was harping on equity stripping for asset protection 

More properties for sale = more properties sold.Fed speakers galore.

We did negotiate the construction supervisor on-site to install home theater speakers I purchased from BestBuy.

I run pints and and properties in Raleigh we have a speaker every month and network before and after. 

they know what credit agency each banks looks at, to make credit decisions. based on the info they apply to each bank that best fits your credit profile, remember they make money 4 different ways, 1st- credit line, 2nd-Credit Restoration, 3rd-commission/referral fee from  credit issuer, 4th-from conferences or webinars you are invited to where they make a referral commission just like bigger pocket makes money from pro memberships. every speaker guest bring value to their products/offering so why no make extra money in the middle.

These clubs often host regular meetings, guest speakers, and networking events tailored to investors in the area.By actively participating in these networking opportunities and connecting with other investors, you can learn from their experiences, gain valuable insights into the local markets, and potentially find partners or mentors to support you in your real estate investing journey. 

I just attended the Space City RE investors meet up last month and it was nice chatting with like minded investors and listening to their speaker. 

Sounds like the speaker line up was great and I'm excited to see what changes Furnished Finder is making because that platform sure could use a refresh.

I was speaking at a conference a couple of years ago and one of the other speakers, an executive with an appraisal management company, pointed out that the average age of an appraiser in the US at that time was 58 years old.

There is is NOREIA which has good national speakers.