As conference manager for Natural Products Expo West, I’m already gearing up for next year’s show in Anaheim, Calif., from March 8 to 11. I’m pleased that our 2012 speaker lineup is shaping up into a robust program that could directly benefit you and your store. Here’s a look at three sessions I’m particularly excited about.

Paul Greenberg

Next year’s keynote speaker is (drumroll, please …) Paul Greenberg, author of Four Fish (Penguin, 2010). Do you sell fresh fish in your store or offer it in your prepared foods section? In addition to discussing genetically engineered salmon, Greenberg will address how dwindling numbers of popular fish species are negatively impacting the global ecosystem. How can retailers take an active role in protecting our last truly wild food? Find out on Saturday, March 10, at 9 a.m.

Meg Cadoux Hirshberg

What retailer isn’t familiar with the challenges of juggling family life and work? Meg Cadoux Hirshberg, Inc. Magazine columnist and contributing editor, shares her experiences as the wife of Stonyfield Farm cofounder Gary Hirshberg, and explains the impact entrepreneurial businesses can have on the home. What did she learn from the time she deems “the bad old days of Stonyfield,” and how has she managed to make family her first priority, over the endless needs of the business? Hear Hirshberg speak Friday, March 9, at 9 a.m.

Penelope Trunk

Behind every business leader is a handful of wonderful employees—hopefully. Knowing whom to hire can be a huge challenge in maintaining a successful store—but it doesn’t have to be. Penelope Trunk, author and CEO of Brazen Careerist, a career-management website geared toward Gen X and Gen Y job seekers, can help you attract the right talent. Trunk offers fresh, sensible advice with a humorous perspective. Visit her website, penelopetrunk.com, before attending her talk at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 8.

Please note that all Expo West 2012 education sessions will be held at the Anaheim Marriott, adjacent to the Anaheim Convention Center. We look forward to seeing you there.