The Association Podcast: Recent Episodes
Jake Toohey, Joe Post, Ben Muscolino
Jake Toohey and Joe Post (Adage Technologies) and Ben Muscolino (Breezio and AMS Geek) bring you The Association Podcast. With more than a combined three decades of experience in the association tech space, they explore challenges facing associations and bring fresh ideas on addressing them using strategy, design, analytics, and technology.
Liz Peuster, Chief Communications Officer at the South Carolina Association of CPAs and founder of LP Innovates, joins The Association Podcast for a conversation that goes far beyond AI hype. Liz shares her career journey through the association world, why storytelling is at the heart of member value, and how associations can use AI to create better member experiences while developing, not replacing, their staff.
From building custom AI assistants that coach employees into stronger writers to helping professionals navigate AI adoption with confidence, Liz offers practical ideas that any association can implement immediately. Whether you're just beginning your AI journey or looking for smarter ways to serve members, this episode is packed with actionable advice and fresh perspectives.
Timestamps
- 00:00 Welcome and Liz's association career journey
- 03:40 There's an association for everything
- 07:40 Why storytelling starts with understanding your members
- 12:00 Turning member challenges into advocacy success stories
- 14:20 AI concerns facing the accounting profession
- 17:00 Helping members evaluate AI vendors and technology
- 21:40 Building custom AI tools inside associations
- 24:00 Creating "Paige," an AI copy editor that teaches instead of rewrites
- 28:00 Why AI should focus on upskilling staff, not replacing them
- 30:30 Reclaiming time for member relationships
- 34:00 Teaching the next generation to use AI responsibly
- 37:00 Launching LP Innovates
- 39:30 Practical AI strategies anyone can implement tomorrow
- 41:00 Custom Copilot prompts that sound like you
- 43:00 AI workflows that eliminate inbox distractions
- 45:00 Saving hundreds of hours through small AI improvements
- 47:00 Final advice: Start with what frustrates you most
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Megan Paulini of Associations International, Senior Technical Solutions Specialist and recent AWTC Champion Award winner, shares how she accidentally entered the association world via a temp role and grew from member services into tech solutioning, QA, and deep NetForum work. She explains how an AMC’s shared-services model supports multiple association clients across varied tech stacks and why clear definitions, overcommunication, and documentation prevent costly misunderstandings. Megan reflects on recognition through AWTC, her preference for puzzle-style projects, and practical ways she uses AI daily, including having it review requirements for gaps, interview her with follow-up questions, generate test cases, and build a project forecast spreadsheet to reduce QA bottlenecks. The conversation also touches on realistic personalization, data foundations, and balancing customization with guardrails.
00:43 Guest Intro
01:16 Rapid Fire Questions
03:23 How Megan Found Associations
04:32 From Member Services to Tech
07:26 Inside the AMC Model
10:06 Patterns Across Clients
12:22 Translating Business to Tech
15:56 AWTC Award Spotlight
20:37 Favorite Projects and Puzzles
21:53 Switching to Maybel Setup
22:23 Daily AI Wheel Spin
22:59 AI for Better Requirements
24:27 AI as Interviewer
25:51 Forecasting QA Bottlenecks
27:10 Choosing AI Tools
30:05 Data Personalization Reality
32:52 Progressive Profiling Vision
33:23 Career Path Marketing
35:12 Role Evolution at AMC
38:43 Guardrails Over Customization
40:27 Office Rundown Analogy
41:03 Closing Takeaways
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Scott Bush, CEO of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR), shares his path from mechanical engineering to a decade in minor league baseball, leading to his role at SABR focused on growing revenue and membership. He explains SABR’s origins in 1971, its mission of sharing baseball research, and its structure of 85 worldwide chapters and 34 research committees spanning analytics, history, and niche topics, including projects restoring grave markers for former players. Bush discusses how technology, the pandemic, and virtual engagement expanded access and community, while emphasizing “humanity first” in member communication. He outlines strategies to improve retention, build fundraising, and expand student membership through baseball analytics courses, and details current debates on content strategy, AI-driven declines in search traffic, and potential paywall or newsletter approaches. He also previews SABR 54 in Cleveland (July 29–Aug 2), featuring Guardians speakers, research presentations, a game, League Park visit, and a Major League screening with director David Ward.
00:00 Cold Open Setup
00:14 Welcome and Guest Intro
00:45 Rapid Fire Questions
02:34 Scott Career Journey
05:59 What Sabre Does
07:52 Tech and Pandemic Shifts
10:14 Chapters and Committees
13:30 Sabre and Analytics Origins
18:44 Growing Sabre Revenue
21:25 Student Analytics Boom
22:15 Courses and Portfolios
23:16 Favorite Committees Talk
24:06 Legacy Versus Innovation
29:47 Human Touch and Tech
32:55 Content Strategy Debate
36:33 SEO and AI Disruption
38:07 SABR 54 Cleveland Preview
41:02 Wrap Up and Thanks
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Lacey Pope, MBA, CAE, Customer Success Manager at Web Scribble, to discuss her career journey in associations and her transition to the industry partner side. Lacey shares how she entered the association world through temp work, earned her CAE, and later drove process improvements at the Oncology Nursing Society that increased live support and boosted customer satisfaction by nearly 10%. She reflects on leading membership technology modernization at Shriners International—including AI translation tools, a new LMS, project management platform, and Power BI reporting—work that earned her recognition at the AWTC Awards. The conversation also explores hiring in the age of AI, daily AI use in customer success, and how associations can build stronger workforce development pipelines beyond a basic job board.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:36 Rapid Fire Questions
02:17 Lacey Association Journey
03:26 Process Improvement Wins
04:55 Career Pivot and Web Scribble
07:22 Awards and Title Tradeoffs
09:32 Vendor Side and Member Value
12:05 Meet Mabel Topic Wheel
13:23 Hiring in the Age of AI
17:44 Daily AI and Policies
20:01 Using AI On The Side
20:51 Five-Year Career Pivot
22:17 Recruited To WebScribble
23:00 Industry Credibility Matters
24:58 Networking And Job Boards
27:02 Daily Wins And Parenting
28:21 AWTC Recognition And Belonging
30:52 Recognition And Community Growth
33:24 Customer Success Trends
34:51 Advice For Student Pipelines
36:42 What WebScribble Does 38:32 Final Thanks And Wrap
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Jamie Atchison, MSMIT, Senior Director of Innovation and Strategy at the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH). Jamie shares her unique journey from public health programming into technology leadership, highlighting how she bridges business needs and digital innovation within her organization.
We explore ASPPH’s groundbreaking AI chatbot, built in just eight weeks, and the intentional, human-centered approach behind it. Jamie dives into how associations can responsibly adopt AI, the importance of curated and trusted content, and how vertical AI models can combat misinformation in complex fields like public health.
The conversation also covers leadership philosophy, including servant leadership, psychological safety, and building high-performing “one-pizza teams” that can move quickly without losing alignment. Jamie offers a forward-looking perspective on how AI and agentic AI will reshape associations, emphasizing augmentation over replacement and the need for strong critical thinking in an AI-driven world.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:01 Rapid Fire Questions
02:00 Jamie’s Career Journey and Path into Technology
05:00 Transition from Program Work to Digital Innovation Leadership
07:00 Building High-Performing “One-Pizza Teams”
09:00 Inside the AI Chatbot Project (8-Week Build)
12:00 Team Structure, AWS Partnership, and Knowledge Transfer
13:00 From Problem to Solution: Why a Chatbot?
14:30 Responsible and Ethical AI in Public Health
17:00 Guardrails, Curated Content, and Vertical AI Models
18:00 Data Considerations and Content Strategy
20:00 Member Feedback and Adoption of AI Tools
21:30 Human-Centered Design vs. Over-Reliance on AI
23:00 Broader AI Strategy and Task Force Initiatives
26:00 Building a Digital Innovation Team in Associations
29:00 Bridging Business Strategy and Technology Execution
32:00 Future Trends: AI, Agentic AI, and Workforce Impact
36:00 Servant Leadership and Building Trust in Teams
39:00 Culture, Collaboration, and Crisis Response in Tech Teams
40:00 AWTC Recognition and Team Success
42:00 Aligning Personal Values with Organizational Mission
44:00 Where to Learn More About ASPPH’s AI Initiatives
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Dana Kohli, Vice President of Client Solutions at DelCor Technology Solutions and recent AWTC award winner, for a conversation about leadership, partnerships, and the evolving role of technology in associations.
Dana shares her career journey from music educator to association technology leader, and how her people-first approach has shaped her work helping organizations solve complex challenges. The conversation explores emerging trends in the association space, including data strategy, CEO involvement in technology decisions, system selection evolution, and the growing importance of change management.
We also dive into the human side of technology, from building authentic partnerships to asking tough questions and creating space for meaningful collaboration. Dana shares insights on daily wins, leadership moments, and why the most successful technology initiatives always come back to people.
Throughout the conversation, we reflect on how associations are balancing innovation with practicality, navigating security and automation challenges, and embracing what Dana calls “good old-fashioned leadership” in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Erica Salm Rench, Chief Marketing Officer at Sidecar, to explore how associations can move beyond AI buzzwords and into meaningful adoption. Erica shares her career journey from digital marketing to leading AI-driven innovation in the association space, along with the experiences that shaped her approach to technology, community, and leadership.
We dive into practical strategies for AI adoption, including building a culture of experimentation, creating internal learning cohorts, and identifying workflows ripe for automation. Erica also discusses the growing role of agents, the balance between personalization and privacy, and how associations can use data more effectively to improve member engagement.
Throughout the conversation, Erica highlights the importance of collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning as associations navigate rapid technological change. She also shares insights from her work at Sidecar, emerging trends in AI, and what leaders should focus on today to prepare their organizations for the future.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Ravi Rooprai, Director of IT and PMO at the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT). Ravi shares his unique journey from molecular microbiology and pharmaceutical consulting into association technology leadership, bringing a scientific mindset to digital transformation and innovation.
The conversation explores how MDRT is modernizing association technology by decoupling legacy systems, building scalable data ecosystems, and experimenting with AI-driven personalization. Ravi explains how his team approaches technology through experimentation, feasibility studies, and agile thinking to improve member experiences and operational efficiency.
We also dive into MDRT’s cutting-edge meeting technology, including large-scale multilingual interpretation powered by AI and the infrastructure required to support thousands of attendees simultaneously streaming translated sessions. Ravi discusses how associations can better leverage data, personalization, and experimentation to drive engagement, retention, and measurable member value.
From building a culture of innovation to applying e-commerce thinking to membership value, this episode offers practical insights for association leaders navigating digital transformation.
00:01:00 Introduction to Ravi Rooprai and MDRT
00:01:30 Rapid Fire Questions
00:02:40 Ravi’s Career Journey from Science to Association Technology
00:04:30 Lessons from Industry Applied to Associations
00:05:30 Using ROI and Value Metrics in Association Technology Decisions
00:07:00 Measuring Member Lifetime Value
00:08:30 The Value of MDRT Membership for Financial Professionals
00:10:30 Reworking Legacy AMS Systems Through Decoupled Data Architecture
00:12:00 Building a Modern Data Ecosystem Around Legacy Platforms
00:13:30 Scaling Membership Systems to Handle Peak Demand
00:14:45 Managing 60–70K Membership Applications During Renewal Season
00:16:00 Leveraging AI and Technology at Large Global Conferences
00:17:00 Simultaneous Translation and Multilingual Meeting Experiences
00:18:30 Solving Conference Connectivity and Infrastructure Challenges
00:20:00 Improving the Member Experience Through Technology
00:21:00 Favorite Tools: AI, Copilot, and Power Apps
00:23:30 Empowering Staff to Experiment with Technology
00:24:30 Personalization and Data-Driven Engagement
00:26:00 Using Engagement Data to Shape Event Programming
00:28:00 The Future of Digital Transformation in Associations
00:29:00 Applying a Scientific Mindset to Technology Innovation
00:31:00 Building a Culture of Experimentation and Safe Failure
00:33:00 Feasibility Studies and Agile Technology Testing
00:35:00 Applying E-commerce Thinking to Membership Value
00:37:00 The Future of AI and Meeting Technology at MDRT
00:39:00 Rethinking the Conference Experience
00:40:00 Closing Thoughts
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Mike Moyer, Executive Director of the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA). Mike shares his journey from wrestling coach to leading the NWCA, detailing the organization's mission to develop transformational coaches and advocate for wrestler safety through groundbreaking initiatives such as the creation of a weight management system. We delve into NWCA's innovative strategies, including coaching development programs and the Wrestlers in Business Network (WIBN), which connects wrestlers with career opportunities. Mike also highlights the challenges and triumphs of expanding wrestling programs nationwide and the critical role of technology in achieving their goals.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome industry veteran Liam O'Malley from Path LMS by Momentive. Liam shares his extensive journey in the association market, highlighting key experiences from the American Bar Association to his current role at Momentum. The discussion covers the evolving landscape of online learning, microlearning strategies, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. Liam also introduces the exciting launch of Momentive IQ, a tool designed to centralize data and integrate various association technologies. Tune in to hear insights on managing nano markets and the future of AI in associations.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome newly minted Executive Director of Women in Revenue, Dr. Ginna Santy. Ginna shares her journey from academia to founding a women-focused co-working business and ultimately leading Women in Revenue. We discuss her passion for elevating women's roles in revenue-generating positions and discuss the importance of designing for inclusivity. Ginna emphasizes the importance of creating value for women in professional spaces and describes Women in Revenue's community-building efforts.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Laura Sparks, Director of Marketing and Communications at the American Society of Appraisers. We dive into Laura’s journey into the association space, exploring her eclectic background and approach to marketing and leadership. We also discuss the importance of member engagement, the integration of AI in association marketing, and the critical role of content quality. Laura highlights the significance of marketing’s seat at the table and the need for collaborative planning to enhance member experiences and drive growth. Additionally, we explore volunteer engagement strategies and the value of feedback in refining marketing efforts.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:37 Rapid Fire Questions
02:23 Laura's Journey into Associations
05:40 Marketing and Sales Synergy
05:56 Content Marketing and AI
08:59 Tagging and Data Management
15:50 Member Experience and Feedback
26:01 The Role of Marketing in Associations
27:58 Marketing vs. Promotion: Understanding the Difference
29:55 The Importance of Marketing's Seat at the Table
31:02 Gender Dynamics in Marketing
32:29 Engaging Volunteers Effectively
35:28 Marketing Volunteer Opportunities
38:16 The Challenges of Committee Work
43:49 Planning and Ideation in Marketing
50:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Welcome to the 100th episode of The Association Podcast! We reflect on the evolution of topics and themes over the past five years, discuss our key takeaways, and acknowledge many of our influential guests. We cover themes like leadership and governance, digital strategy, data and analytics, culture, marketing and brand, community and engagement, education and learning, DEI, association strategy, and the impact of AI. You'll hear our personal anecdotes, audience insights, and future predictions.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome repeat guest Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE, and Executive Advisor at Foresight First LLC, for a deep dive into the challenges and considerations involving AI and association boards. We discuss the Future of Association Boards (FAB) Report, which De Cagna curated and edited, touching on the importance of creating a better future for association boards. Jeff stresses the need for ethical reflection in adopting AI, the concept of stewardship over traditional leadership, and fostering humanity within organizational purposes. The conversation also covers practical approaches for boards, board readiness, and actions association leaders can take to effectively navigate the evolving landscape.
FAB Report
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome back Alex Mouw, Principal Strategic Advisor at AWS for Nonprofits. Highlighting the importance of strategic alignment and the value of diverse stakeholder involvement, Alex provides insightful guidance on implementing AI solutions sustainably and effectively. The discussion touches on the evolving role of technology in nonprofits, the necessity of a culture that supports experimentation, and how to decide between building or buying technology solutions. We also discuss the Imagine Grant, AWS resources for nonprofit organizations, and what skills are essential for today's tech landscape.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Jessica Irizarry, Component Relations Director at Shriners International, for an insightful discussion about association management and member engagement. Jessica shares her journey into the association sector, highlighting the importance of adaptability, volunteer management, and the evolving concept of 'components' in associations. The discussion explores the challenges and strategies for engaging multi-generational members, the role of technology in creating impactful work environments, and the importance of recognizing member contributions. Jessica also offers perspectives on giving constructive feedback, leveraging personal interests for better work-life balance, and staying intentional about recognizing and valuing volunteer efforts.
On this special edition of The Association Podcast, Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, CEO of Association Forum, joins us live from Chicago. Moore shares her journey of leading Forum since 2022, from her early days in not-for-profit sectors and association management to successfully integrating AI and technology in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. From discussing her keynote at AWTC Advance to her philosophy on community and mentorship, this episode highlights her disruptive approach to leadership, her focus on empowerment, and her vision for the future of associations. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on leveraging technology to advance and foster meaningful connections within the association community.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Justin Scott, PhD, CAE, and Vice President of Innovation and Analytics at the Metal Service Center Institute. Get ready for an in-depth discussion about the nuanced differences between data-driven and data-informed decision-making approaches, and the pivotal role of clear communication and collaboration in making data-driven decisions. Justin shares valuable insights from his experience, including the transition from a think tank to the association world and the importance of community and shared knowledge within the association industry.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Alex Skinner, CEO of Pixl8 Group, ReadyMembership, and ReadyIntelligence. Alex shares his journey from founding Pixl8 to becoming a key player in the association space. He discusses the evolution of his company, growth strategies, and the critical role of user experience in developing digital platforms. We discuss the integration of AI in workflows, the importance of not using AI when simpler tools can suffice, and the ethical considerations of AI applications. He also offers insights on navigating complex projects, balancing innovation with practicality, and fostering partnerships in the US and UK markets.
www.pixl8.com
www.readymembership.com
www.readyintelligence.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome back Bill Conerly, a senior contributor at Forbes, speaker, writer, and consultant. We discuss economic outlooks, the impact of AI on the labor market, workforce demographics, and the effects of mergers and acquisitions on associations and their members. Bill also highlights the Federal Reserve's recent actions on interest rates and the importance of flexible, adaptive strategies for navigating economic uncertainties.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we're joined by Wade Tetsuka, President of US Transactions Corp, and Kate Coffey-Bacon, SVP of Marketing and Strategy. We hear about Wade's journey from CPA to founding US Transactions Corp, and Kate's innovative marketing strategies. We discuss the significance of creating a community through educational programs like UST Education, offering free webinars and thought leadership opportunities. We also get into the evolution of professional education, marketing trends like microlearning and video content, and the impact of social media, especially the integration of Instagram indexing by Google. Finally, we explore the complexities that associations face with payment processing and the importance of maintaining flexibility and choice in payment providers.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Angel Baltimore, Senior Vice President of Information Technology at the National Apartment Association, to discuss her extensive career in association management and technology leadership. Angel shares her journey starting as a temp over two decades ago and rising through various organizations, including the American Institute of Architects and the American Pharmacists Association. We chat about the importance of documentation, branding, data strategy, and the efficient use of technology tools like Microsoft Copilot. We also touch on improving the relationship between national offices and affiliates, the frustrations with current association management systems, and the imperative to simplify processes for staff. Angel offers insightful advice and personal anecdotes, making this episode a rich resource for anyone involved in association management and technology.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, industry veteran Ray Van Hilt, VP of Strategy at Yoko Co, joins the show to discuss UX strategies, effective content strategy, and the vital intersection between marketing and IT. Ray shares personal anecdotes from his career journey, such as working for Ringling Brothers and his experience within the association industry. The conversation dives into the importance of a user-centric approach to web design, the evolving role of AI in content strategy, and ways to foster a strong, inclusive company culture.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Monica Dillingham Pemberton, Vice President and CIO at the American Council on Education, joins the discussion! Monica shares her journey through the association industry, spanning 14 years, and highlights her experience from NACUBO to ACE. We touch on ACE's focus on higher education advocacy and Monica's extensive board involvement, particularly in STEM and women in technology. She emphasizes the importance of identifying and nurturing talent, inspired by her career experiences and mentors she has had along the way. We also cover topics like delegation, travel recommendations, and the importance of empathy and service in leadership. The episode concludes with a heartfelt mention of Loretta DeLuca's legacy in the association community.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we are joined by Mats Persson, CEO of Umbraco, one of the world's leading open-source content management systems. We hear about Mats' journey to becoming CEO, his past experiences in the software industry, and how they've shaped his vision for leading Umbraco. Mats discusses Umbraco's strategies for increasing brand recognition, particularly in the U.S. market, and the company's efforts to balance community-driven open source with commercial backing. We also reflect on the challenges and opportunities in educating people about open source and the importance of personalization in modern web solutions. Finally, we touch on scaling for growth, embracing simplicity in technology, and the role of AI in the future of content management.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we sit down with Christina Lewellen, MBA, CAE, CEO of the Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (ATLIS). Christina shares her journey from journalism to leading a fast-growing association, the power of starting with "yes," and why vendor partners should have a seat at the table. We also dive into the innovative ways ATLAS is driving efficiency, including a no-email policy and a four-day workweek, and how small staff associations can punch above their weight. Whether you're leading a large or small organization, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, digital transformation, and creating real impact in the association world.
Tune in to hear Christina’s take on breaking traditional association norms, fostering collaboration, and why she believes in finding hidden talent in unexpected places.
On this episode of the Association Podcast, Karen Bernstein, Vice President of Learning and Development at the International Coaching Federation, sits down with us to discuss a variety of topics related to leadership, team building, and personal growth. We talk about how her experiences at summer camp helped shape her professional journey, including the importance of building confidence, fostering teamwork, integrating fun into work, and taking risks. Karen shares insights from her work with different age groups and emphasizes the value of authenticity and transparency in leadership. We also touch on balancing virtual work environments with team cohesion and the impact of personal experiences on professional development.
In the final The Association Podcast episode of 2024, we are thrilled to host Elena Dumitrascu, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Credivera. Join us as Elena shares her journey in the world of digital trust and innovations in credentialing. She dives deep into Credivera's mission of making digital credentials accessible, secure, and verifiable in real time. We also explore the adoption of digital solutions in the association world, their impact on healthcare and regulated industries, and Credivera's exciting growth phase.
In this year-end episode of The Association Podcast, we reflect on the key events and accomplishments of 2024, including our first annual partner sponsor, record-breaking downloads, and live podcasting at ASAE. We discuss practical AI applications, effective automation tools, and the importance of showing up for each other in the association community. We also take our own spins with Mabel and talk about the evolving role of the CIO, the benefits of fractional roles, and successful leadership techniques in managing up and down. Join us as we celebrate a remarkable year and look forward to the exciting possibilities that 2025 will bring!
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome special guest Walter Bond, former NBA basketball player, CEO, and National Speakers Association Hall of Fame keynote speaker. Walter shares his incredible journey from the NBA to becoming a successful motivational speaker. He provides valuable insights into the importance of associations in personal and professional growth, the power of networking, and the fundamentals of hosting a successful conference. We also discuss the role of support networks and how associations have played a pivotal role in his career. Listen for actionable advice and inspiration for anyone looking to achieve excellence in their field and the transformative power of associations.
On this episode of The Association Podcast we welcome on Mark Dorsey, FASAE, CAE, CEO of the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). We explore Mark's transformative leadership journey from his early career in radio sales and ski instruction to becoming a pivotal figure in association leadership. We learn how Mark navigated challenges such as organizational restructuring and declining membership, leading to significant revenue growth and revitalization at CSI. Learn about the importance of accountability, strategic governance, innovation, and fostering community within associations. Through personal anecdotes, professional insights, and discussions on evolving industry dynamics, we get valuable lessons on effective leadership, embracing change, and the future of trade shows and customer engagement.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we sit down with industry leader Brittany Carter, President and CEO of CBIS and leader of Association TRENDS, CEO Update, and Bumblebee Data. Brittany shares her extensive journey in the industry and the innovative approaches of the organizations she leads. We also talk about non-dues revenue and the importance of listening and storytelling in the association space. Brittany highlights her efforts to foster a community for female CEOs and the significant role of technology in advancing associations.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome back Michael Hoffman, CEO of Gather Voices. We discuss the evolution of Gather Voices from a startup to a leader in the association market and hear about the technology company's developments, including AI tools and introducing new functionalities to increase member engagement through video content. Michael shares insights on change management, the importance of practice through the 'seven-day video challenge,' and how discomfort in leaders can affect overall adoption. They also explore the current trends and innovations in association events, the impact of COVID-19 on business operations, and the challenges CEOs face today. Tune in to discover practical tips for leveraging video content within associations and the significance of maintaining a forward-thinking mindset.
On this special live episode of The Association Podcast, recorded at the ASAE Conference in Cleveland, OH, we discuss various topics related to association technology, practical applications of AI, and the evolving landscape of customer experience. The episode features guest appearances from industry experts like Patrick Dorsey from Impexium and Molly Lee from Adage Technologies, who share their insights on the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the sector. Hear about practical AI implementations, cybersecurity discussions, and the importance of vendor collaboration to elevate technology in the association community.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we sit down with the dynamic Tori Miller Liu, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CIP, President and CEO at AIM International. We have a lively discussion featuring Tori's background and impressive career in associations, from marketing to technology leadership. We get insights into AIIM International’s role in intelligent information management, the future of AI in information systems, and the challenges of managing unstructured data. Tori also shares her experiences as a CEO, including organizational strategies, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and simplifying processes for better efficiency.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome back Jose Segarra, Strategic Director & Senior Account executive at Bostrom and Co-founder of Association Latinos, along with Nicole from Dynamic Benchmarking. We get into the intricacies of benchmarking within associations, focusing on the collaborative work between Dynamic Benchmarking and Association Latinos. We learn about benchmarking and conducting studies in the association community to understand their members' needs. Jose shares insights into the Association Latinos' initiative to gather demographic data within associations, detailing their survey's development process and the valuable findings they hope to achieve. Whether you’re an association leader or simply interested in data-driven insights, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to the power of benchmarking in the association market.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we have return visitor Mark Wallach, MBA, CEO Emeritus of Engagement Mobile Strategies. Mark, a prominent figure in the association market and an advocate for ALS awareness, shares insights on accessibility. Diagnosed with ALS in April 2021, Mark discusses his slower-than-average progression and the subsequent challenges. He talks about starting Engagement Mobile Strategies, a company offering mobile engagement consultations and other services, after reducing his full-time work commitment. Mark emphasizes the importance of accessibility in technology, websites, and events, citing its benefits for everyone, including those with disabilities. He also highlights events and efforts to raise ALS awareness. Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion covering strategies for better accessibility and inclusivity in associations.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Morgan Roth, the Chief Marketing Officer of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Morgan shares her fascinating career journey from broadcasting to the nonprofit sector, emphasizing her personal connection to MDA's mission as she lives with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The discussion highlights significant milestones, such as recent FAA legislation improving air travel accessibility for people with disabilities, the organization's comprehensive roles in research, multidisciplinary care, and advocacy, and their community outreach activities. We also touch on the importance of digital fluency, actionable data, and proactive decision-making in nonprofit leadership. Morgan shares her pride in MDA's achievements and her commitment to supporting and advancing the neuromuscular disease community.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Joanna Pineda, CEO and Chief Troublemaker at Matrix Group International. We discuss her entrepreneurial journey, web design fundamentals, and reflections on the association management industry. Our conversation spans from the significance of company culture and accountability to practical strategies for project management and maintaining work-life balance in a remote environment, all intertwined with the need for continuous learning, adapting to market needs, and fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace culture.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Ted Davis, Director of Digital Experience and Strategy at the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) and an adjunct at NYU. Ted shares his journey from working in lifestyle magazines and beauty to embracing Digital Transformation in the association market. We discuss the strategic shift towards a digital-first organization at NACD, the value of education through Ted's lens of teaching digital marketing at NYU and adapting to associations' unique pacing and culture. We also explore the importance of empathy in marketing, the transition from a commercial to an association mindset, and how associations can benefit from corporate practices without losing their community focus. Mabel gets us into a deeper discussion on the future of marketing and keeping things simple within organizations.
Discover the remarkable journey of Don Dea, a key figure in the association industry, as he shares experiences ranging from corporate leadership at Xerox to impactful contributions in nonprofits like America's Vet Dogs. We discuss his perspectives on governance, technology, leveraging volunteers, insights on Digital Now, educational empowerment, community engagement, and leadership wisdom.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we have special guest Justin Bieganek, Creative Director & Founder of Mercury Creative Group. We discuss the journey and strategic work involved in brand building and management, especially for associations. Justin shares his experiences building Mercury Creative Group and also shares insights into the value of developing a singular brand focus, the client-side perspective, decision-making issues, maintaining brand relevance, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing brand design and communications. We also get into the contrast between working with for-profit and non-profit organizations.
On this episode of The Association Podcase, we welcome Christine Nogal, Chief Operations & Business Development Officer at the Arthroscopy Association of North America. We discuss her unconventional path from music to association management, AANA's Think Tank for innovation, and the successful implementation of a Netflix-style subscription model for AANA's online learning. We also talk about the importance of simplicity in user experience and decision-making, the value of team input, and the surprising diversity of their subscription model's user base. Special thanks to Lauren Janik from Impexium for stepping in for Gretchen as our guest host!
www.impexium.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Rob Barnes, MBA, CAE, and the CEO of BettyBot. We discuss how his company's AI product enhances the accessibility and utility of knowledge repositories maintained by associations. We learn how BettyBot can ingest an entire knowledge base to provide precise, verified information to users instead of forcing them to navigate through traditional search results. We also get into the importance of associations considering their digital strategies, emphasizing how artificial intelligence technology allows for a more efficient, responsive service that addresses users' immediate needs. Finally, we touch on the changing paradigms in decision-making within associations and advocate for a user-based approach.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome seasoned venture capitalist, Tim McLoughlin, Managing Partner at Cofounders Capital to share his insights on software investment, particularly in the association market. We discuss the differences and resemblances between Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC). Tim explains the concept of 'fund size' and its implication in investment decisions and walks through his fundraising experience. We go on to address the surge in AI applications in business solutions and Tim's advice to entrepreneurs to focus on solving real-world problems and making a difference. Finally, we talk about trends in software procurement, investment cycles, and the importance of nurturing relationships.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome repeat guest, Patrick Dorsey, Senior VP of Marketing at Impexium. We explore the transforming landscape of association technology. Discussions range from Impexium's significant growth and the role of AI, to customer service, marketing, and the importance of good client relationships. We get some insights into the company's journey from a startup to a mature organization, its management of acquisitions and resources, and highlight the ways they anticipate client needs.
www.impexium.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, our own Ben Muscolino, CEO of Breezio and Founder & CEO of AssociationWire, which includes AMS Geek, Data Sangria, and other industry brands, joins other Association Podcasters and industry thought leaders to discuss each other’s approach to their own association industry podcast, why they do it and much more. Stories of past episodes, past guests, and different podcast formats make this episode a little bit of a peak behind the mic of some of your favorite association industry podcasts and personalities. The episode is led by Dave Coriale, CAE and President at DelCor Technology Solutions, and joined by Dave Will, Co-Founder and CEO of PropFuel, Joanna Pineda, Founder, CEO and Chief Troublemaker at Matrix Group International and last but certainly not least, the “OG” of association podcasting, KiKi L’Italien, VP of Marketing & Community at Big Red M and Editor-In-Chief for the well-known brand, Association Chat.
The Association Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-association-podcast/id1553363203
Ben Muscolino, CEO of Breezio and Founder & CEO of AssociationWire which includes AMS Geek, Data Sangria
www.breezio.com
www.associationwire.com
Association Chat Podcast:
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Alex Mouw, CAE, Principal Strategic Advisor at AWS for Nonprofits. We discuss Alex's background, getting into the association market when she was six years old and the work she is doing at AWS. After learning about the onboarding and interview process at Amazon, we chat about the challenges of siloed organizations and data in associations and how to best centralize data for better engagement. We also cover the importance of diversifying revenue in the association space, the impact of AI and machine learning, and the use of voice technology in exhibits.
AWS for Nonprofits
www.aws.amazon.com/npo
AWS IMAGINE Grant Program
www.aws.amazon.com/government-education/nonprofits/aws-imagine-grant-program
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we talk with Rob Katchen, Senior Vice President of Information Technology at the American Academy of Pediatrics. We get Rob's perspective on the role of technology in associations, focusing on the continuous journey that is digital transformation. We discuss why he advocates for honesty and open communication with stakeholders, emphasizing trust and accountability. We also discuss his insights on the transition from the for-profit world to the non-profit world, how that shapes his role at the Academy and his expectations for vendors and partners.
www.aap.org
www.healthychildren.org
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D., a disability rights advocate and ADA compliance consultant, shares her insights on creating accessible environments. She discusses her work in disability inclusion, her experiences consulting on ADA compliance for large tradeshows, and the importance of attention to detail in planning accessible events. We also talk about the balance between security and usability in design, the significance of seemingly simple things like ramps, and the need for respectful language when interacting with individuals with disabilities.
Rosemarie's Website with Free Resources
www.rosemariespeaks.com
Universal Design Laboratory
www.udll.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Co-founder and CEO of PropFuel, Dave Will, joins us to discuss enhancing association communication by listening to member needs and personalizing messaging. We highlight the importance of understanding member needs and expectations and the value of data collection in achieving this. The conversation also covers the challenges associations face in utilizing data and the role of automation. We also debate the complexity of associations, the importance of user experience, and the potential for associations to learn from other industries.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Angela Mell, Senior Director of Communications and Education at the Louisiana Credit Union League, shares her journey in the credit union space, the transition from Google Groups to a new community platform, and the challenges faced in adopting new technology. We also discuss the importance of listening to member needs, prioritizing technology initiatives, and delegating responsibilities.
The Association Podcast welcomes Wes Trochlil back to the show for a great conversation about holes in the association market. In part 2 of this conversation, we discuss the integration and fundraising challenges associations have. We look at difficulties in justifying investments in expensive technology for small fundraising efforts, the risks of straying from an association's mission, and the importance of integrating systems for efficient data management. We also get into topics such as credentialing, certifications, ecommerce, membership engines, and communication tools within associations.
The Association Podcast welcomes back Wes Trochlil to the show for a great conversation about holes in the association market. In part 1 of the conversation, we get into the importance of training and ongoing professional development in the association industry and the challenges of implementing new software. We also discuss the effectiveness of the "train the trainer" model, the importance of continuous improvement and investment in software systems, and the concept of "guardrails" in project management and budgeting, emphasizing the need for clear boundaries and effective communication.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we have an interview with Economist, Consultant, and Senior Contributor at Forbes, Bill Conerly, who has written about the impact of a recession on associations and trade shows. We discuss the challenges associations face in predicting revenue and staying in touch with members, particularly those who are not regular attendees. We also get into the importance of cultivating data around members and staying in touch with them to understand their business needs and potential impact on revenue. Our conversation also covers the potential impact of a recession on membership in associations, programming, AI, and hybrid events.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Ron Mark Moen, CIO of the American Society for Clinical Pathology. We discuss the role of CIOs in the association market, the qualities that make a good CIO, and how to bridge the gap between technical teams and the business side of an organization. We also get into the challenges of adopting new technology, the importance of empathy and expertise in serving customers, and the importance of feedback, integrity, and transparency in building high-performing teams.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, governance expert Jeff De Cagna discusses the need for association boards to become more active and intentional in guiding their organizations into the future. We discuss the flaws in the current system of association boards and the need for them to adapt to changing circumstances. The conversation also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on board decision-making and the introduction of generative AI into the system. Jeff emphasizes the importance of having a thoughtful conversation about the implications of technology use in associations and staying objective when exploring new technologies. Check out the links below for more from Jeff!
Jeff's Articles on Authory
Jeff's LinkedIn Profile
Jeff's April 4 Open Letter on Generative AI
Register for Jeff's May 10 session on Generative AI (Association staff only)
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Dave Caruso, Co-Founder, President, and CRO of HighRoad Solution, to hear about his background and the evolution of HighRoad from an email marketing provider to their current focus on marketing automation strategy and integrations. We discuss the importance of channel strategy, building integrations and partnerships with other companies in the industry, and the need for companies to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and trends to provide the best possible experience for their customers. We also touch on the concerns surrounding the rapid adoption of AI and the importance of human intervention in its use.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Colby Horton and Frank Humada from Association Briefings to discuss how your association can use podcasts to reach their specific audience segments. Colby and Frank share tips for creating a great podcast for your association to spread industry expertise and reach emerging professionals to help them learn and engage with your organization.
www.associationbriefings.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Tom Lyons, CIO of the American Society for Microbiology. We dive into the topic of leveraging investments in technology to drive organizational growth and success. Tom shares insights on how to use systems in a usable way, personalize experiences and increase engagement while still using data responsibly. We also discuss the AMS as the system of record and the importance of ensuring that it talks to other systems in a seamless manner to avoid silos.
We also discuss the role of the CIO and how they can help organizations navigate data governance and make better use of technology to build a strong organizational culture.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Jenna Goins, MS, MBA, CAE, Director of Membership & Marketing at NACUFS, to discuss all things member experience. We dive into the importance of member onboarding, the nuances between trade and professional organizations, and how leaders can align their technologies to support member onboarding, engagement, and retention. We also discuss the challenges organizations face when it comes to engaging at-risk members and the strategies that have been successful in keeping them connected.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Chris Gloede, Chief Consultant at Ricochet. We dive into the topic of associations catching up with the latest technology and how they can stay ahead of the curve. We'll discuss the potential of using advanced language models like ChatGPT to enhance member engagement and streamline operations. We also cover strategies for securing budget from your board of directors and adjusting your technology roadmap to align with your organization's goals.
https://ricochetadvice.com/
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome on the founders of Association Latinos! We discuss their journey from an Association Forum Conversation Circle to a registered non-profit organization that has been growing and thriving through the efforts of dedicated volunteers.
From the beginning, Association Latinos has fostered a close-knit community where everyone is there to support and lift each other up. The group is also dedicated to advocating for the underrepresented LatinX community in the association space, providing resources to help their community grow and succeed in their careers. With the growing trend of non-profits popping up to support underrepresented groups in the association space, Association Latinos is leading the charge in creating a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Join us as we dive deeper into the story of Association Latinos and learn about the power of friendship, trust, and community in driving success. Follow their LinkedIn page and help them reach their goal of 1,000 followers by the end of 2022!
https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos/
Thad Lurie, CAE, CIP, Chief Information and Engagement Officer at ISPOR, joins The Association Podcast to share his perspectives as a current association executive and former consultant on the role of the association CIO today and in the future. We get into approaches for budgeting projects, hiring, and different organizational personalities.
Brendan Wilson, International Marketing Program Manager at the Food Export Association of the Midwest joins The Association Podcast to talk about connecting members and constituents worldwide by segmenting their customer journeys, match-making at events, and fulfilling their mission to help small businesses grow.
Norma Castrejon, CAE, joins us on TAP for an awesome conversation about her experiences as an association professional in IT and project management and what she's now doing as a Senior Consultant at DelCor. We also hear the inspiring story of how she and others founded the non-profit, Association Latinos, to advance the Latino presence in associations.
https://www.associationlatinos.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-latinos/
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome our new resident co-host, Gretchen Steenstra of Delcor Solutions! We introduce a couple of new segments including a "spin the wheel" where we explore topics and experiences in the association market.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we are excited to be joined by Amber Winter, CEO of Web Courseworks. Amber was recently promoted to CEO so we get to hear about that, what the current and future state of online learning looks like, and how Web Courseworks is innovating by looking at the corporate space and using AI and machine learning to make things easier for users.
www.webcourseworks.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we're talking about brand messaging. We welcome Mark Hayes, Vice President of Communications from the Farm Credit Council. Despite being a small staff, Farm Credit Council is amazing at leveraging its communication and social channels to deliver targeted messaging to specific, intended audiences. We get to hear about how they differentiate themselves from similar organizations and how their members are the key to the authentic brand story when delivering targeted communications.
It is ASAE Annual week! We are so lucky to welcome Debra Zabloudil, Vice President of Learning at ASAE and mastermind behind Annual. We talk about what to expect this year, some of the things event planners have to consider in this post-Covid era of in-person events, and how ASAE has adapted its content to meet the needs of members and attendees after learning so much over the past couple of years.
www.associationbriefings.com/podcasts
We are back from summer vacation, and we have a fantastic guest on TAP. Sue Bertrand, former Deputy Executive Director & COO at Illinois Association of School Business Officials, joins The Association Podcast to talk about personas, marketing automation, and developing an atmosphere at your organization.
One of the best and most inspiring discussions we've had, to date. Chris Busky, CAE, CEO of the Infectious Diseases Society of America talks to us about a view from the front lines of the COVID 19 pandemic. We hear about his staff's tireless effort and incredible collaboration with their members saved many lives.
Talk to our friends at Association Briefings to get started with your association's podcast! Visit www.associationbriefings.com/podcasts!
Longtime industry veteran, Sig VanDamme, joins The Association Podcast to talk about his experiences as an entrepreneur throughout his career, working with and building AMS platforms, and what led to him deciding to build Nimble AMS on top of Salesforce.
We get into what the workplace looks like today and how he runs his Salesforce consultancy, Gojectory, differently than he did with other ventures in the past. Other topics include his philosophy on small, daily improvements and quick wins, and keeping his staff lean and well-rested so that they can deliver their best work.
https://www.gojectory.com/
We have another double dip this week on The Association Podcast, from Delcor Technology Solutions we welcome on, CTO, Chris Ecker, and Executive Vice President, Brian Sheehan. Chris and Brian have decades of experience in the association and 501C space and join us to talk about cyber security. It's not a sexy topic, but it is vital to the safety of organizations and can't be ignored. We talk about multi-factor, staff security training, endpoint and application security, firewalls, and intrusion. These are some really important considerations to keep your organization safe.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome on Angela Kisskeys and Steffanie Berg from Associations North. We get to hear about the many roles that they play at their small staff organization that serves association executives and professionals in the upper Midwest. We talk about their hyper-focus on delivering members what they need, always learning and trying new things to continuously improve, but overall the super-power of the small staff organization.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we have the pleasure of talking to a titan of the association industry tech space, General Manager of Nimble AMS, and Gravitate at Community Brands, Rob Miller. Rob share's some about his storied past and experience, but we really get to get an expert perspective into today's AMS landscape. We discuss the pros and cons of traditional vs. platform-based AMS platforms and also get to hear his thoughts on emerging technology market trends.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome on Mitch Eisen…most of our listeners from the association industry likely recognize Mitch as the co-founder of Real Magnet. Since then he's started a really interesting company called Contentware. This was such a fun conversation because we really explore the potential of artificial intelligence in the space. Everyone talks about AI, but there are a ton of misconceptions and misunderstandings about the technology itself. So we get to hear about some low-risk ways to introduce associations to artificial intelligence, how AI can help people do their job better and more efficiently, and not about how AI is going to replace jobs.
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jason Leahy, Executive Director of the Illinois Principals Association, onto The Association Podcast. It's an interesting time to be in the field of education, and we get to hear all about that and also get into some of the really cool things that he's doing at IPA to educate their members, like exploring micro-credentialing and other ways they help members and potential members advance their careers as educators. We also talk quite a bit about leadership and things he does to set the association up to thrive many years into the future.
Amy Hemphill, Senior Director of Member Relations at ASAE, joins The Association Podcast with her phenomenal story and experience. Before Amy joined ASAE she was the Senior Director of Member Services at NACUBO where she worked her way up to that role from the receptionist's desk. We talk about using the power of the association network in your career and when seeking advice. We also hear about her efforts to change the mindset and practices at ASAE, specifically with data management and governance, and her push to create a more personalized member experience.
Tim Spell, CEO of OpenWater joins us on The Association Podcast, fresh off their recent sale to ASI. We get to hear about his M&A journey. We also get into a few topics we haven't previously touched on like what Bitcoin and cryptocurrency can do for associations and their investment portfolios, how exploring non-traditional avenues could help future-proof organizations, and the emerging topic of Web3.
www.getopenwater.com
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by Julie Sciullo, CEO of Association Analytics. We get to hear Julie's story as an intrapreneur and entrepreneur throughout her career, her thoughts on how associations can best use data and analytics to advance their missions and serve members. We also get to hear about how mentorships can be so beneficial for association professionals and different ways to make mentorships work for different personality types. Finally, we talk about some of the awesome work that Julie's doing at Association Women Technology Champions. Always a great conversation when you get to talk to Julie Sciullo!
www.associationanalytics.com
www.awtc.tech
This week on The Association Podcast we welcome on Alexis Redmond, JD, MA, CAE. Alexis is the Director of Career Management Resources at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. As most are aware, this is quite an interesting time in the world of career management and recruiting and we got to hear what Alexis and ASHA are doing to provide value to members and employees during the Great Reshuffle. Alexis gives us some insight into why a User Experience-based approach to career management is the best way to appeal to job seekers in 2022.
Lowell Aplebaum, FASAE, CAE, CPF, CEO & Strategy Catalyst of Vista Cova joins us this week and shares some incredible insights and experiences as a Master Facilitator in the association market. He has worked with association boards of all sizes helping people listen, hear, and understand each other in the pursuit of a common goal. Enjoy!
www.vistacova.com
Happy New Year everyone! Most people start the new year with new motivations and we're going to kick off the new year at The Association Podcast with Steve Lerch. Steve is the President of Story Arc Consulting and is a Keynote Speaker as well as a consultant. Keynote speakers usually motivate their audiences so we thought he'd be fitting for the first episode of 2022.
Steve spent most of his career at Google and worked with Associations helping them with Digital Marketing, so we get to hear a lot about the culture and innovation work and experiences at Google and what he talks to his association audiences about, like when he was the keynote speaker at ASAE Annual in 2020.
Contact Steve at www.storyarcconsulting.com.
Pete Zimek, Founder and CEO of Novi AMS joins us to talk about Novi and QuickBooks' unique value proposition to the association market. We hear about how a hyper-focus on best-of-breed technology and integrations, customer experience, and transparent alignment with customers is the key to successful relationships.
Andy Dempster, Director of Business Strategy at Optimizely, joins The Association Podcast to share his journey from the association world at SME to Optimizely. We get into all of the things associations should know when it comes to DXP vs. CMS, proprietary vs. open-source platforms, content personalization, experimentation, CDP, search, and a whole lot more.
We have a special BREAKING NEWS episode of The Association Podcast. We get to hear from Kevin Bruffey, President of Protech Associates, and Jake Fabbri, CMO of Togetherwork about the big news broke this week when Protech joined the Togetherwork family.
This week we welcome our good friend Mark Wallach, Manager of Business Development for RD Mobile. Mark is a fascinating guy with an incredible story. We get into all things mobile with Mark. If you have questions about whether you need a mobile app at your association or what a mobile app can do for you, this episode is for you.
Mark Wallach
Email: mwallach@rdmobile.com
Mobile: 561.385.2323
This week on The Association Podcast we welcome Leigh Kessler. Leigh is not only a veteran marketer in the non-profit world but an accomplished standup comedian and keynote speaker, so we get to hear about the similarities between standup and brand marketing. We get a really unique perspective on how brands and associations can learn from comics about how to differentiate themselves.
Check out Leigh's standup and keynote work at www.standupspeaker.com.
Chief Information and Engagement Officer at ASAE, Reggie Henry, CAE, joins us on The Association Podcast this week.
We had a ton of things to talk about with Reggie, but some highlights were about being present at the point of need for members, his crusade to get people and organizations away from Legacy Mindsets, and what he and ASAE are doing to be an example for the association community to push innovation.
Maddie Grant, Co-founder of Propel, Author, Digital Strategist, and Culture Designer joins The Association Podcast to talk about what it means to design an organizational culture. We discuss what success means in digital transformation, and it might not be what you think it is.
Please check out all of the incredible resources that Maddie has at www.propelnow.co.
CEO of the Indiana CPA Society, Courtney Kincaid, CAE, IOM, joins the show to tell her story of going from bartender to association executive. With building blocks in Membership and Strategic Initiatives along the way, Courtney focuses on serving her membership, meeting them where they are, and advancing the industry with technology. Enjoy!
After a brief summer break, we are back with a brand new episode of The Association Podcast and we’re thrilled to welcome an awesome guest, Teri Carden. Teri is the Founder of 100 Reviews and Review My AMS, the President of the Review Society, and the Creator of AMS Fest & Non-Dues-A-Palooza. We get to hear about her journey from her start in the association world to becoming one of the great entrepreneurs in our market. We hope you enjoy!
Jeff Horne, Co-Founder & CEO of Wicket, joins us to talk about the future of the association technology stack, all things APIs, leveraging best of breed technology, and demystifying integrations in the association tech space.
Wes Trochlil, Founder and CEO of Effective Database Management, joins The Association Podcast to share Wes's Wisdom from his years as one of the most well-known and experienced consultants in the market. We talk innovation, data, culture, and a lot more.
Erin Fitzgerald, Director of Enterprise Portfolio Management Office at the AANA, joins The Association Podcast to talk about the Four Domains of EPMO. Listen to hear how she and the AANA have matured their portfolio management operations to meet both Member and Board goals while growing the organization through data and culture.
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome David Ricciardi to talk about all things data and what it means to be a data-driven organization. We also talk about leadership and always improving as a leader.
This week on The Association Podcast we welcome on Tim Hopkins, Senior Consultant at McKinley Advisors. We have a discussion about Tim's background coming from the IAFC to McKinley, his role as a leader with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives at both organizations, in addition to his work as a strategic technologist. We also get into all of our Origin Stories, so we hope you enjoy learning a little bit about all of us!
This week on The Association Podcast we welcome Rick Bawcum, CEO, and Founder of CIMATRI. Listen for topics including what associations need to do to be transformative, the consultant's role as an educator, and his thoughts on the business model of associations in the future.
Ryan joins us on The Association Podcast to talk about Event Farm being acquired by MemberSuite and the success they've experienced together. We also get to hear the answer to an interesting question, "what does it mean to be a Chief Strategy Officer?"
We welcome Eric Thurston onto The Association Podcast to hear about his time leading Personify and what he is up to now. We get some great insight into what it's like working with the private equity model, leading an organization in today's challenging climate, and how to grow an organization with a people-first mindset.
Larissa Fair joins The Association Podcast to discuss her experiences marketing to associations and for the ESA. Energy storage is an exploding industry that she helps support with a small staff. We also get into how to leverage core pillars and member benefits to achieve results.
Andrea Chang and Craig Peake join Jake, Joe, and Ben to talk about their experience managing successful and sometimes unsuccessful IT projects in the association space. We get into a little bit about agile methodologies, and both of our guest's perspectives on what it’s like being on the vendor, consultant, and client-side of projects.
Patrick Dorsey, Executive Vice President of Marketing at Impexium joins us to talk about Billhighway's recent acquisition of Impexium and also about Patrick's take on how to differentiate by focusing on making customer's and member's lives easier.
Jeff Cooper joins us to share his experience in business and with mergers and acquisitions in the association market. We also chat about managing not only competing products after a merger but unifying company cultures, too.
Michael Hoffman, Founder and CEO of Gather Voices. We had a great conversation about creating connections with authenticity and get his insight into where marketing needs to be in the current environment. Finally, we hear about what it's like to run and grow a software startup.
www.theassociationpodcast.com
www.adagetech.com
www.breezio.com
www.gathervoices.co
Gretchen Steenstra joins us to talk about the things that have been exposed in the association market over the past year, particularly with virtual events and some ideas on how to improve virtual events from a user experience perspective
Then we get into what needs to be done to fix the vendor and sponsor experience at virtual events.
www.theassociationpodcast.com
www.adagetech.com
www.breezio.com
www.delcor.com
Ben, Jake, and Joe are joined by Jake Fabbri, CMO of Fonteva, to talk about their recent acquisition. We get into what it takes to run a successful software company and how organizational culture is a key component.
www.theassociationpodcast.com
www.adagetech.com
www.breezio.com
www.amsgeek.com
Jake Toohey and Joe Post from Adage and Ben Muscolino of Breezio take a look at what associations are doing during the pandemic to respond to the multitude of challenges facing the industry and discuss ways to thrive in the current environment.