Engaging in the Next

In this episode, we talk with Shasta Foy, executive director of the Association for Christian Fundraising, about her dedication to making a meaningful impact through association work. She shares insights from her career journey, including the challenges she navigated while earning her CAE credential. Shasta also discusses the vital role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in associations and offers a personal perspective on mentori...

In this episode, we sit down with Ginger Johnson, a dynamic speaker and champion of human connection, to explore the power of relationships in associations. Ginger shares her journey across various professions and how it led her to advocate for deeper, more purposeful connections. She discusses why retention matters more than recruitment, the role of storytelling and fun in building strong associations, and practical tips for hosti...

In this episode, we chat with Amy Burke, MA, FASAE, CAE, executive director and CEO of the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), about effective non-dues revenue strategies. Amy shares insights on aligning revenue initiatives with an association's mission and vision, leveraging successful partnerships, and creating impactful sponsorship opportunities. She also highlights innovative approaches, such as incorporating uniq...

In this episode, we sit down with John Bacon, MBA, Vice President of Enterprise Sales at the American Society of Association Executives, to explore the art and science of growing non-dues revenue. John shares insights from his career journey in the association space, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and leveraging both internal and external stakeholders to create impactful solutions. He discusses the evolvin...

In this episode, we talk with Elizabeth Weaver Engel, M.A., CAE, chief strategist at Spark Consulting, about why it's crucial for associations to take action on climate change and sustainability. Elizabeth highlights the importance of measuring and actively reducing carbon footprints, urging associations to move beyond relying on carbon offsets. She shares examples of innovative practices within the association space and encourages...

In this episode, we chat with Debbie Stadtler, CAE, Editor-in-Chief at the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, about the evolution of print publications in a multi-channel communications strategy. Debbie highlights how storytelling plays a pivotal role in building trust and member engagement while discussing the ongoing balance between print and digital media and the enduring value of print...

In this episode, we chat with Sharon Pare, senior partnership program manager at HighRoad Solutions, about the power of networking at association conferences. Sharon emphasizes the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to build meaningful relationships and highlights how conferences offer more than just professional development—they’re a gateway to valuable connections and growth opportunities. She also shares tips on ma...

In our latest episode, we sit down with Haley Jones, Director of Member Engagement at the American Staffing Association. Haley shares her full circle journey to the organization, her inspiring encounter with Coach K, and how she incorporates her own coaching skills into her leadership role. We also delve into her impactful DEI efforts. Tune in to learn about adaptability in the association space and why it’s crucial for organizatio...

In this episode, we sit down with Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, executive director of the Texas Society of Association Executives. We chat about personal journeys, industry insights, and strategic partnerships. We discuss the impact of the pandemic on association innovation, challenges within our space, the value of state organizations and networking, and the future of the association community. And we throw in some hot opinions on "me...

In this episode, we sit down with Deedre Daniel, a seasoned industry expert, captivating keynote speaker, and creative game inventor. Together, we explore the art of networking, stepping outside your comfort zone, and dissecting the shifts in networking dynamics post-pandemic. From inventive strategies to foster networking before and during events to innovative approaches for generating non-dues revenue, Deedre shares her wealth of...

Live events play a pivotal role in the association community, serving as a powerful hub for networking, learning and fostering a sense of community. But what truly keeps attendees coming back year after year? In our season 3 premier, we talk to Chris Brown, executive vice president and managing director of the National Association of Broadcasters Global Connections and Events. We talk about the transformation of live events, innova...

It's the time of year when organizations are looking for opportunities to secure funding for upcoming projects. In this episode, we talk to Shelli Vasser Gilliam, director of development for Community Lodgings. We talk about bringing storytelling elements into the grant writing process, how this narrative a significant role in securing grants, how grant writing has evolved over the past decade, and overcoming fears that might get i...

Every association is a community, and each has its own culture. And today, those cultures should have a driving element of inclusivity where everyone has a true sense of belonging. In this episode, we talk to Cameron Curtis, CMM, CAE, founder and chief innovator of C2 Association Strategies. We chat about prioritizing a people-first mindset, key strategies in creating a more inclusive and diverse work environment, and actively prom...

Innovation comes with a price - a price many associations aren't always prepared for. In this episode, we talk to Josh Moore, senior director of operations and state partner services at LeadingAge. We chat about setting up an innovation fund for an association, the challenges of state associations and how national groups can help, and emerging technologies that could have significant impact on associations. Oh, and we talk about Mo...

Behind every association's successful communication strategy, there’s a dedicated communications team working tirelessly to craft and deliver messages that resonate with their target audience. In this episode, we talk to Marli Hall, director of communications and member services at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association.  We chat about her career journey in the association space, communication challenges she faces, new tech...

Community organizing is a process by which members of an association come together to collectively address issues, solve problems, and create positive changes within their industries. In this episode, we talk to Molly Lewis, CEO of the Kentucky Primary Care Association. We chat about building relationships, mobilizing resources in times of need, and empowering association members to work collaboratively towards shared goals through...

Podcasts serve as a prime engagement opportunity for associations ready to expand on their value propositions of being an industry thought leader. In this episode, we talk to Joanna Pineda, CEO and Chief Troublemaker for Matrix Group, and host of the popular Associations Thrive podcast.  We chat about her career journey in the association space, what it takes to launch and maintain a successful podcast, how to find the right host, ...