Licensing Expo may be in May - but if you’re not preparing right now, you’re already behind.

In this episode of Born to License, David Born shares exactly how he and his team prepare for Licensing Expo 2026, the world’s biggest licensing event, attracting over 12,000 attendees and 5,000 brands from more than 70 countries.

From booking meetings months in advance to surviving long days on the show floor, this episode is a practical, no-fluff guide to making the most of your time in Las Vegas - whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Licensing Expo preparation starts months before May
• How to build a smart target list and secure meetings early
• Why licensor showcases are strategic goldmines (and how to get invited)
• How to plan meetings realistically inside a massive venue
• Where to stay — and how to save thousands on accommodation
• What to bring (and what not to bring) to the show floor
• How to manage food, hydration, and energy during long days
• Why Thursdays can be your secret weapon for last-minute meetings

David also shares real-world tips from attending Licensing Expo year after year — including mistakes to avoid, how to move around efficiently, and how to stay sharp through three intense days of dealmaking.

If you’re attending Licensing Expo 2026 — or thinking about it — this episode will help you arrive prepared, focused, and ahead of the pack.

🎧 Next episode: The rise of AI in licensing — and what it means for brands, licensors, and licensees.

🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born

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