Episodit

  • In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher is joined by Tara Puckey, MBA, CAE, CMP, Executive Director of the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) and Foundation (RTDNF). Tara brings her wealth of experience in journalism and association leadership to the conversation, sharing insights on fostering meaningful connections in a remote environment, effective onboarding practices and the future of leadership in journalism.

    Key Highlights:

    Building a Remote Team Culture: Tara discusses RTDNA’s transition to an all-remote team and emphasizes the importance of intentionality in building a supportive work culture. By gathering staff at offsite locations throughout the year, the organization creates dedicated time for team bonding and strategic discussions.

    Onboarding for Engagement: For Tara, welcoming new team members goes beyond logistics. RTDNA’s onboarding process includes personal interactions, virtual meet-and-greets and cultural touchpoints to help new hires feel connected from day one.

    Navigating Rapid Industry Changes: As the journalism landscape continues to evolve, Tara explains how RTDNA supports its members—journalism professionals and news leaders—with leadership training and resources to adapt to new technologies, ethical challenges and shifting public expectations.

    Embedding DEIA in Newsrooms: Tara shares RTDNA’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), both within the organization and across the industry. She discusses the association’s work to ensure newsrooms reflect the communities they serve and highlights initiatives that promote representation and inclusion at all levels.

    Join us as Tara Puckey offers practical strategies for building a resilient association culture, advancing DEIA in journalism and supporting member organizations through times of change.


    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with actionable takeaways to help your association thrive in a dynamic world!

  • Welcome back to The A100 Podcast! In this episode, recorded live at ASAE’s Annual Conference, host Meghan Henning sits down with Dr. Cie Armstead, MPA, DBA, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Administrative Director at the American College of Surgeons (ACS). Dr. Armstead shares her insights on implementing DEI initiatives, overcoming challenges and fostering a truly inclusive environment within associations.

    Key Highlights:

    Shifting DEI Narratives: Dr. Armstead emphasizes the importance of reframing DEI from being solely about challenges to showcasing the opportunities for growth, innovation and inclusion.

    Tailored Strategies for Lasting Impact: Through a listening tour, ACS developed initiatives that resonate with the diverse needs of members and staff, ensuring genuine engagement and sustained impact.

    Honoring History While Embracing Change: ACS's long-standing DEI commitment provides valuable lessons on balancing historical efforts with the ongoing need to address health equity and improve representation in the healthcare sector.

    Join us as Dr. Cie Armstead shares her experience in advancing DEI at the American College of Surgeons, offering practical strategies for fostering inclusive excellence and navigating challenges. Whether your association is just starting on its DEI journey or looking to enhance existing efforts, this episode provides valuable lessons for association professionals aiming to build more inclusive, equitable organizations.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes filled with expert strategies and actionable insights to help your association foster inclusivity and drive meaningful change!

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  • In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Nathan Chamberlain, CAE, Director of Membership at the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). With nearly two decades of experience in membership management and customer experience, Nathan shares his insights into creating member value through cutting-edge technology and strategic innovation. He explains how AANA focuses on fostering meaningful member connections while addressing the unique needs of over 65,000 members.

    Key Highlights:

    Empathy-Driven Member Engagement: Nathan discusses how AANA prioritizes member satisfaction by centering on empathy in all interactions. Through real-time feedback and satisfaction scores, the organization ensures that services are fast, accurate and aligned with member expectations, fostering a culture of trust and responsiveness.

    Personalized and Accessible Education: AANA’s micro-credentialing program offers members an innovative, accessible approach to professional development. By providing short, skill-based learning modules, AANA is meeting members' need for efficient, high-impact education, allowing them to prove competencies in real-world applications without the time constraints of traditional learning formats.

    Data-Driven Decisions and Technology: With a background in IT, Nathan highlights how AANA leverages technology to improve membership services and personalize experiences. By using HubSpot to track member behavior and feedback, the organization has transitioned to a more member-centered model, offering real-time data insights that drive strategic decisions.

    Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Nathan also shares AANA’s ongoing efforts to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion are at the forefront of the organization’s strategic priorities. Through targeted outreach and community engagement, AANA works to break down barriers and create a more inclusive space for both members and the patients they serve.

    Join us as Nathan shares practical strategies for creating member-centric experiences that drive retention and growth—valuable insights for association professionals aiming to foster deeper connections and long-term loyalty.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with expert insights to help your association innovate, engage, and thrive!

  • In this insightful A100 video interview, Bennie F. Johnson, CEO of the American Marketing Association, shares his dynamic vision for the future of marketing. Bennie discusses how AMA serves as a global hub for marketing professionals, supporting everyone from students to executives. He explores key topics like AI, data-driven decision making, and the critical role of community in shaping the marketing profession.

    Key Highlights:

    Embracing Disruptive Change: Bennie emphasizes the importance of welcoming innovation and leveraging marketing’s evolving tools to drive productive change, especially in an AI-driven landscape.

    Fostering Community: He explains how AMA creates spaces for marketers across all sectors to collaborate, learn, and grow, emphasizing that communities are more essential than ever in a digital-first world.

    Ethical Responsibility in Marketing: Bennie also touches on the growing need for transparency and ethical practices in marketing, as consumers demand more accountability from brands.

    Join us as Bennie Johnson shares his forward-thinking approach to marketing leadership, offering essential insights for association professionals navigating change and building stronger communities.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with expert insights and innovative strategies to help your association embrace change and lead with impact!

  • In this insightful episode of The A100 Podcast, recorded live at ASAE's 2024 Annual Conference, host Meghan Henning sits down with Kerri McGovern, Senior Director of Membership at the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC). Kerri shares how ACC is revolutionizing member engagement through innovative tools like the ACC 365 app, a standout success that has significantly improved communication and networking for ACC’s 46,000 members worldwide.

    Key Highlights:

    The ACC 365 App: Kerri explains how the award-winning app has transformed member interaction by providing seamless access to newsfeeds, online communities and job board services—all at the members’ fingertips. The app’s continuous improvements, driven by member feedback, have made it an invaluable tool for engagement and career development.

    Innovative Onboarding: Kerri highlights ACC’s forward-thinking onboarding strategy, which breaks down tasks into manageable actions to better engage new members. The strategic use of data collection and email suppression ensures members get relevant, personalized experiences in their first 90 days.

    AI-Powered Personalization: Kerri dives into ACC’s use of AI to enhance newsletter personalization, ensuring members receive tailored content based on their specific interests and engagement patterns, all while navigating global privacy regulations like GDPR.

    Creating a Culture of Innovation: Kerri discusses how ACC fosters a culture of innovation within its team, continuously iterating on member services and embracing experimentation. Whether it’s implementing AI or leveraging behavioral insights from their app, ACC prioritizes staying ahead of the curve.

    Join us as Kerri McGovern shares ACC’s journey of using technology and innovation to elevate member engagement and deliver exceptional value, offering practical takeaways for association professionals looking to enhance their own member services.


    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with innovative strategies and expert insights to drive your association forward!

    Note: This episode was recorded live on the show floor at ASAE’s Annual Conference, and although we’ve minimized background noise, you may notice a few minor audio glitches.

  • In this insightful episode of The Association 100 Podcast, recorded live at ASAE's 2024 Annual Conference, host Meghan Henning sits down with Margaret Vitullo, PhD, CAE, Executive Director of the Linguistic Society of America (LSA). With over 16 months at the helm of LSA, Margaret discusses the challenges and opportunities facing scholarly societies and how they can adapt to the shifting association landscape.

    Key Highlights:

    The Evolution of Scholarly Societies: Margaret outlines how traditional revenue models for academic associations—membership, meetings, and publications—are under pressure. She explains how the LSA is navigating these challenges while still advancing the scientific study of language.

    Transforming LSA’s Operations: From launching a new website and database to breaking fundraising records, Margaret shares how LSA has made significant strides in its centennial year, while also increasing member dues by 30%.

    Fractal Leadership Approach: Margaret introduces the concept of "fractal leadership," an innovative model based on shared community and responsibility at every level of an organization. She explains how this approach is helping LSA build a stronger sense of belonging and collaboration among its members, staff, and leadership.

    Revitalizing Member Engagement: Margaret highlights how LSA is creating new opportunities for linguists outside of academia through programs like LEXING, which focuses on linguists working in industry, nonprofits, and government sectors. These efforts are helping to expand the society’s influence beyond traditional academia.

    Empowering Committees and Staff: Drawing inspiration from leadership books such as Turn the Ship Around and The Art of Possibility, Margaret discusses how LSA is empowering committees and staff to take ownership of their roles and contribute to the association’s success.

    Join us as Margaret Vitullo shares her journey in reinvigorating LSA through innovation, collaboration, and leadership, providing valuable lessons for association professionals looking to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.


    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes filled with expert insights and strategies to help your association adapt and thrive.

    Note: There are minor audio glitches due to background noise from the ASAE show floor. We’ve minimized these as much as possible to ensure a smooth listening experience.

  • Welcome to another episode of The A100 Podcast, where we’re joined by Stanley Pierre-Louis, President & CEO of the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). In this insightful conversation, Stan takes us through the dynamic world of video games and shares how ESA serves as the voice for the U.S. video game industry.

    Key Highlights:

    Stan’s Career Journey: Stan traces his unique career path, from working in media and intellectual property law to leading ESA. He shares how his passion for media, technology, and the arts has shaped his leadership in the video game industry.

    The Role of ESA: ESA advocates for the video game industry and protects its economic and creative contributions. Stan explains how ESA supports its members in areas like free expression, intellectual property protection, and self-regulation.

    Economic Impact of Video Games: With over 190 million Americans playing video games and a $101 billion economic impact, Stan discusses ESA’s research and how data drives advocacy efforts. He also highlights the industry’s substantial contributions to the U.S. economy and job market.

    Advocacy and Policy Priorities: Stan dives into ESA’s top policy priorities, including AI, intellectual property, and digital wellness. He shares how ESA educates policymakers on the nuances of video game technology and advocates for thoughtful, common-sense regulations.

    Collaboration and Partnerships: Stan emphasizes the importance of partnerships in advancing the industry. From working with organizations like the AARP and the American Heart Association to global initiatives that highlight the social and emotional benefits of video games, ESA leverages collaboration to amplify its impact.

    Join us as Stan Pierre-Louis shares valuable insights into the intersection of technology, creativity, and advocacy, providing actionable takeaways for association professionals looking to enhance their own advocacy and member engagement efforts.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes filled with expert insights and innovative strategies to drive your association's advocacy and impact to new heights!

  • In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher is joined by Karley Cunningham, big thinker, creative strategist and founder of Big Bold Brand. Karley shares her unique journey from professional athlete to brand strategist and explains how her team helps purpose-driven organizations develop executable strategies that position them as leaders in their industry.

    Key Highlights:

    The Athlete’s Mindset in Business: Karley discusses how her competitive athletic background, including being a former professional mountain biker, has shaped her structured, goal-driven approach to business and branding.

    Branding vs. Marketing: Karley emphasizes the difference between branding and marketing, highlighting that branding is about creating an authentic identity from the inside out, while marketing promotes that identity externally.

    The Surefire Strategy: Learn about Karley’s proven methodology for developing a brand that stands out. She explains how her process can help your association identify your unique value proposition, align with your core beliefs and communicate your mission effectively.

    Building Brands from the Inside Out: Karley explains why it’s critical for organizations to develop their brand based on their internal values and beliefs. She shares how this authentic approach creates alignment across leadership and members, ensuring the brand stands out in a crowded market.

    Join us as Karley Cunningham shares actionable insights on building a strong, differentiated brand that resonates deeply with both internal stakeholders and external audiences.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with expert advice and strategies to help your association stand out in a sea of sameness!

  • In this episode of The A100 Podcast, recorded live at ASAE’s Annual Conference, O&U’s Meghan Henning sits down with Lou Centrella, CAE, Senior Director of Technology Services at ISSA - The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association. Lou shares valuable insights on how ISSA is enhancing its technology strategy to better serve its members and support the entire organization.

    Key Highlights:

    Building Strong Cross-Departmental Partnerships: Lou discusses the importance of IT being a collaborative partner with all departments. He emphasizes that the technology team’s role isn’t just about providing tools but about understanding the needs of each department and integrating technology into their processes to achieve shared goals.

    Creating a Roadmap for Success: Lou shares his approach to putting together a detailed technology roadmap, ensuring that the association’s tech investments align with strategic priorities. From selecting the right tools to planning for long-term upgrades, Lou explains how ISSA’s roadmap ensures they stay ahead of tech trends and serve their members effectively.

    Modernizing the Tech Stack: Lou details how ISSA has modernized its tech stack, focusing on integrating systems and leveraging the cloud. He highlights the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to more modern platforms, ensuring that both member-facing tools and internal processes run smoothly.

    Prioritizing Cybersecurity: In a digital-first world, cybersecurity is critical. Lou outlines ISSA’s approach to protecting its data and systems, from implementing secure cloud-based solutions to educating staff on cybersecurity best practices. He explains how they are working to stay proactive against threats while ensuring compliance with industry standards.

    Join us as we explore the essential role of technology in modern associations.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with expert advice and strategies to help your association thrive!

  • Welcome back to The A100 podcast! In this episode, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Sean Luechtefeld, Ph.D., CAE, Vice President of Membership & Communications at ANCOR (American Network of Community Options and Resources). Sean returns to the podcast to share valuable insights into the unique challenges and strategies in the world of association management, particularly in the areas of membership and communications.

    Key Highlights:

    Balancing Dual Roles: Sean discusses the complexities of balancing his dual roles in membership and communications, offering practical advice on how to prioritize tasks and manage a broad scope of responsibilities in a small-staff environment. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with a talented team and being realistic about what can be achieved.

    Advocacy and Active Listening: Sean highlights the significance of active listening in advocacy communications. He shares how ANCOR ensures that the voices of their members—organizations serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities—are heard at the federal level. By understanding and acting on member feedback, ANCOR effectively supports its members in their advocacy efforts.

    Adapting Communications in a Changing Landscape: In a rapidly evolving media environment, Sean explains how ANCOR tailors its communications strategy to address ongoing challenges such as workforce recruitment and retention. He discusses the importance of seizing opportunities that arise from challenges and aligning messaging with current events and broader societal issues.

    Navigating Social Media Channels: Sean dives into the ongoing discussions within ANCOR about the best ways to engage with different social media platforms. He explores the challenges of adapting to changing user behaviors and the importance of focusing on platforms that offer the most value in reaching target audiences, such as members, lawmakers and journalists.

    Looking Ahead: Sean shares his thoughts on the future of membership engagement and communications within associations. He emphasizes the need to shift from selling membership benefits to promoting the overall experience of membership, creating tailored experiences that resonate with diverse member needs.

    Join us as Sean Luechtefeld offers actionable strategies and deep insights into effectively managing communications and membership in associations, making this episode a must-listen for association professionals.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with actionable insights to help your association thrive!

  • In this engaging episode of The A100 podcast, recorded live at ASAE’s Annual Conference in Cleveland, host Meghan Henning sits down with Stephanie Denvir, MS, CAE, Chief Member Experience Officer at the American Society for Quality (ASQ). Stephanie shares her strategies for enhancing the member experience through personalization, community engagement and innovative technology.

    Key Highlights:

    Segmentation and Personalization: Stephanie discusses how ASQ is using segmentation to tailor messaging and provide personalized member experiences. By focusing on the unique needs of their diverse, global membership, ASQ is delivering targeted value to each member.

    Building Strong Communities: ASQ's robust network includes over 230 geographic communities and 26 technical communities. Stephanie highlights the launch of a new online community platform, which has significantly boosted member engagement by providing a space for members to connect, share insights and find volunteer opportunities 24/7.

    Leveraging Technology: Stephanie emphasizes ASQ’s commitment to embracing technology. She shares how the implementation of a new AMS, personalized email campaigns, and an accessible conference tool that provides real-time translation in multiple languages are enhancing the member experience. ASQ is also exploring the potential of AI to further personalize content and meet member needs.

    Challenges and Opportunities Ahead: Looking forward, Stephanie discusses the challenges of integrating AI while ensuring data protection, and the importance of engaging the next generation of members. She stresses the need for association leaders to be open to change and to involve their boards and member leaders in the process.

    Join us as we dive into how ASQ is setting new standards for member engagement and leveraging technology to create a personalized, inclusive experience for all its members.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with actionable insights to help your association thrive!



  • Harnessing the Power of Community

    Welcome back to The A100 podcast! In this episode, recorded live at ASAE’s Annual Conference in Cleveland, O&U’s Meghan Henning sits down with Greg Melia, CAE, CEO of the Customer Experience Professionals Association (CXPA). Greg shares how CXPA has leveraged the power of its global community to drive significant initiatives and maintain a strong, inclusive culture despite being a small-staff association.

    Key Highlights:

    Building the CX Book of Knowledge: Greg shares the inspiring story behind the creation of the CXPA’s CX Book of Knowledge, a 322-page resource developed by 77 volunteers. This member-driven initiative has become a cornerstone for both new and seasoned customer experience professionals, providing invaluable insights, definitions and guidance. The success of this project highlights the power of community collaboration and the impact it can have on an association's reputation and value proposition.

    Maximizing Impact with a Small Staff: Despite having a small staff, CXPA has achieved remarkable results by uniting and motivating its members around shared goals. Greg discusses the importance of leveraging the strengths of the community, as demonstrated by the creation of 14 books following the CX Book of Knowledge. This approach not only enriches the member experience but also establishes CXPA as a trusted source of knowledge and leadership in the customer experience field.

    Inclusive Strategic Planning: Greg emphasizes the value of involving the broader CXPA community in strategic planning. Through a series of Zoom meetings, surveys and a steering committee, CXPA engaged over 1,200 members and non-members in shaping the organization’s future. This inclusive approach has not only informed the association's direction but also cultivated a network of advocates committed to achieving CXPA’s ambitious goals.

    Expanding Global Reach and Inclusivity: Under Greg’s leadership, CXPA has grown from a small startup to a global organization with members in 70 countries. He discusses how the association has maintained a culture of inclusivity and belonging while expanding internationally, particularly through the use of virtual events and digital content. This shift, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has allowed CXPA to amplify diverse voices and ensure that all members feel represented and engaged.

    Navigating Emerging Trends in Customer Experience: Greg touches on the evolving nature of customer experience and the importance of staying ahead of trends. He explains how CXPA is preparing its members to meet these challenges by fostering collaboration and providing tailored resources. From digital communication channels to personalized customer interactions, Greg highlights the need for associations to be agile and responsive to the changing expectations of their members.

    Join us as Greg Melia offers valuable insights into how CXPA is harnessing the power of its global community to drive innovation, inclusivity and member value. Whether you're leading a small-staff association or looking to engage your members more effectively, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiration.


    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes filled with insights to help your association thrive!

  • Welcome back to another exciting episode of The A100 podcast! As we gear up for the ASAE Annual Conference in Cleveland, we’re thrilled to bring you a special compilation of clips from previous A100 interviews with some of the brightest minds and leaders in the association world. These leaders have shared invaluable advice and insights that we believe will inspire and guide you. Be sure to go back and check out their full episodes for more!

    Key Highlights:

    Chris Michaels, CEO, AAMFT: Chris discusses the inclusion of family therapists as Medicare providers, highlighting the importance of continuity of care and the need for more therapists to support the aging population.

    Mike Armstrong, CEO, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards: Mike talks about the importance of recognizing multiple pathways to practice architecture, emphasizing flexibility and the use of technology to measure competency.

    Kinsey Fabrizio, President, Consumer Technology Association: Kinsey provides two key pieces of career advice for association professionals: asking for new opportunities with a clear purpose and finding a good mentor to guide your journey.

    Anita Brikman, President and CEO, Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association: Anita shares the power of advocacy and how personal stories from patients drive their mission. She emphasizes the critical role of early involvement and strategic messaging in communications.

    Earl Franks, Executive Director, NAESP: Earl addresses the significant stress faced by educators and school leaders, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He underscores the importance of supporting the social and emotional well-being of these critical community members.

    Wendy-Jo Toyama, CEO, American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine: Wendy-Jo talks about personal growth and the importance of stretching beyond your comfort zone. She also discusses the necessity of embracing mistakes as part of the DEI learning process.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes filled with expert advice and practical strategies to help your association thrive!

  • Welcome back to another episode of The A100 podcast! In this insightful discussion, we dive into the world of sponsorships with two experts in the field: Dana Johnston, the Vice President of Client Partnerships and Trade Show Marketing for EMC Outdoor, and Bruce Rosenthal, a Corporate Partnership & Sponsorship Consultant and Founder & Convener of the Partnership Professionals Network.

    Key Highlights:

    Transforming Sponsorships from Transactional to Transformational:

    Discover how sponsorships can be a year-round responsibility, involving all departments within an association.

    Learn about the importance of moving beyond transactional relationships and building long-term, transformational partnerships that provide continuous value.

    Planning Ahead for Sponsorship Success:

    Find out why association teams should dedicate 3-4 hours per week to future planning and setting long-term goals for sponsorships.

    Understand the significance of maintaining an ongoing dialogue with industry partners to explore innovative and mutually beneficial opportunities.

    Engaging with Corporate Partners:

    Explore strategies for engaging corporate partners in meaningful discussions about their business objectives and how they align with the association’s mission and member needs.

    Learn how to coach industry partners to focus on educational content and success stories rather than just brand visibility.

    Breaking Down Silos:

    Hear about the importance of cross-departmental collaboration in sponsorship initiatives and how associations can break down internal silos.

    Discover how to create an integrated approach to sponsorship that leverages the strengths of all departments to enhance member value and increase revenue.

    Innovative Sponsorship Strategies:

    Gain insights into keeping sponsorship programs fresh and forward-thinking, avoiding the trap of recycling old prospectuses.

    Learn practical tips on evaluating the success of sponsorship initiatives and sunset offerings that no longer meet strategic goals.

    Join us for this episode packed with actionable tips and deep insights from two leaders in sponsorship strategy, offering valuable lessons for association professionals looking to elevate their sponsorship programs.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes filled with expert advice and practical strategies to help your association thrive!

  • Welcome back to another insightful episode of The A100 podcast! Today, we’re joined by Amber Worthen, Founder and CEO of Email Maven. With years of experience in communication strategy, project management and email marketing, Amber shares her expertise in revolutionizing email marketing for associations.

    Key Highlights:

    Addressing Common Email Challenges: Amber identifies key issues such as inconsistent email design and email fatigue. She emphasizes the importance of applying best practices in email design and segmenting audiences to enhance engagement and avoid overwhelming members.

    Optimizing Open Rates and Engagement: Practical tips on segmenting email audiences and implementing drip campaigns to ensure targeted and relevant communication, resulting in higher open and click rates.

    Choosing the Right Email Platform: Amber advises associations to select email platforms that integrate seamlessly with their data systems to save time and improve efficiency. She underscores the importance of conducting thorough audits to identify the best fit for current and future needs.

    Leveraging Data for Better Decision Making: Emphasizing the importance of data-driven decisions, Amber highlights key metrics such as open rates, click rates, conversion rates and unsubscribe rates. She encourages associations to stay curious and continually analyze data to refine their email strategies.

    Emerging Trends and Practical AI Tips: Amber shares insights into emerging trends like AI, offering practical AI tips for creating alternative subject lines and preheaders. She also emphasizes the importance of continuously testing and optimizing friendly from names, subject lines and preheaders to enhance engagement.

    Best Practices for Effective Email Marketing: Tips on sending emails at the right times based on the audience's lifestyle and behaviors, and using web tracking campaigns to target members who show interest in specific content.

    Join us as Amber Worthen provides practical tips and deep insights for association professionals looking to enhance their email marketing strategies and engage their members more effectively.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with insights to help your association thrive!

  • Welcome back to another episode of The A100 podcast! Today we’re thrilled to have Ben H. Rome, Director of Communications for the American Bus Association (ABA), joining us. With nearly 30 years in storytelling and strategic communications, Ben shares his insights on the evolving role of storytelling in the association world and how ABA is tackling sustainability.

    Key Highlights:

    The Power of Storytelling:

    Ben discusses how storytelling in associations has evolved from simple slogans and stats to creating resonant narratives that engage members on a personal level.

    He emphasizes the importance of making stories compelling and memorable, ensuring they resonate long past the initial campaign.

    Authenticity in Communication:

    Authenticity is crucial in storytelling. Ben highlights the risks of inauthentic messaging and the power of genuine engagement to build trust and loyalty among members.

    Sustainability Initiatives:

    ABA's research shows that motor coaches are the most eco-friendly form of group transportation. Ben explains how they used compelling infographics and social media to highlight this on Earth Day, resulting in high engagement and positive media coverage.

    He also touches on the challenges and advocacy efforts related to the rapid push for electric vehicles and the need for proper infrastructure to support this transition.

    Choosing the Right Channels:

    Ben shares his approach to identifying the best communication channels for different segments of ABA’s audience, emphasizing the importance of tailored messaging and engagement.

    AI and Technology in Communications:

    The role of AI in enhancing efficiency in content creation, analytics and member engagement is explored. Ben offers a balanced view on using AI responsibly to support, not replace, human creativity and judgment.

    Join us as Ben H. Rome delves into these critical areas, offering practical tips and deep insights for association professionals looking to enhance their communication strategies.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Tune in for more episodes packed with insights to help your association thrive!

  • Welcome back to another episode of The A100 Podcast! In this week’s episode, Colleen Gallagher concludes our special three-part series on AI in PR with an insightful solo cast. Today, we explore two critical areas where AI can enhance your PR efforts: crisis management and influencer identification and engagement.

    These topics are part of the five areas we cover in our newly released AI ebook, "Five Ways to Use AI in Your Association's PR Efforts." Email [email protected] to get your copy or download it here: https://onwrdupwrd.com/ebook-5-ways-to-use-ai-in-your-pr-efforts/

    Key Highlights:

    Crisis Management with AI:

    Early Warning System: Learn how AI-powered tools like Meltwater or Brandwatch can monitor and analyze data to provide real-time sentiment tracking, allowing you to be proactive when a crisis is unfolding.

    Developing a Crisis Management Strategy: Discover how AI can help draft a preliminary crisis response plan, analyze historical data and suggest effective strategies based on past crises.

    Combating Disinformation: Explore tools like Truepic or Deepware that can verify the authenticity of images and videos to help counter disinformation and deep fakes.

    Influencer Identification and Engagement with AI:

    Identifying the Right Influencers: Understand how AI can analyze content across various platforms to find influencers whose values and audiences align with your organization. Tools like Traackr and Klear can assist in this process.

    Crafting Targeted Outreach: See how AI can review influencers' past content to help draft personalized outreach messages and suggest the best times and platforms to engage with them.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Resources: Check out our website at onwrdupwrd.com in the coming weeks for a new toolkit on using AI in PR or to sign up for our upcoming workshops. More to come soon on this!

    Stay tuned for more episodes packed with insights to help your association become the go-to source in your industry or profession!

  • Welcome back to another episode of The A100 Podcast! In this week’s episode, Colleen Gallagher goes solo for the second installment of our special three-part series on AI in PR. Today, we dive into the power of AI to transform your pitching efforts, including creating press lists and writing customized pitches. These topics are part of our soon-to-be-released AI ebook, and if you want an early copy, feel free to email Colleen at [email protected].

    Key Highlights:

    Building Targeted Press Lists:

    Learn how AI tools can help you build highly targeted press lists efficiently.

    Discover the importance of specific prompts and ensuring AI does not fill in uncertain information.

    Find out how to use AI to gather verified contact information and analyze recent coverage to refine your press lists.

    Crafting Compelling Pitches:

    Understand how AI can make your pitches more personal and tailored, saving you time while increasing effectiveness.

    Explore methods for refining pitches to be more compelling and concise for top-tier reporters.

    Learn how to customize pitches to resonate with individual journalists based on their recent work and interests.

    Real-World Examples:

    Example 1: Improving a logistics pitch about a potential Canada border strike, resulting in a more direct and impactful pitch that secured immediate media interest.

    Example 2: Enhancing a pitch for PTSD Awareness Month, transforming it into a compelling story that garnered coverage from a top target market.

    Best Practices:

    Important reminders about privacy and data security when using AI tools. Always consider using placeholder names and industries to protect sensitive information.

    Join us as we explore these cutting-edge AI applications and how they can transform your PR efforts. Next week, we'll dive deeper into leveraging AI to enhance your PR strategies.

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Resources: For early access to our AI ebook or any questions, email Colleen at [email protected].

    Stay tuned for more episodes packed with insights to help your association become the go-to source in your industry or profession!

  • Welcome back to another episode of The A100 Podcast! In this week’s episode, Colleen Gallagher goes solo to kick off a special three-part series on AI in PR. In this first installment, we dive into two transformative areas: optimizing press releases for SEO and leveraging predictive analytics to refine your PR strategy. These topics are part of our soon-to-be-released AI ebook, and if you want an early copy, feel free to email Colleen at [email protected].

    Key Highlights:

    Press Release Optimization for SEO:

    Learn how AI tools can suggest effective keywords, offer SEO formatting tips, and customize press releases for different audiences.

    Discover practical prompts to use with ChatGPT for optimizing your press releases, including keyword placement, title optimization, meta descriptions, content structure and more.

    Leveraging Predictive Analytics:

    Explore how AI-powered predictive analytics can anticipate audience preferences, forecast key metrics and fine-tune PR campaigns.

    Understand how to use targeted questions with ChatGPT to gain insights into trends, audience preferences, content strategies and setting realistic PR goals.

    Join us as we explore these cutting-edge AI applications and how they can transform your PR efforts. Next week, we'll dive into how AI can improve your pitching efforts. Don't forget to subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode!

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Resources: For early access to our AI ebook or any questions, email Colleen at [email protected].

    Stay tuned for more episodes packed with insights to help your association become the go-to source in your industry or profession!

  • Welcome to another impactful episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we're joined by Samyuktha Neeraja, State Associations Relations Manager II at the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology and a passionate advocate for DEI and disability inclusion. Samyuktha shares her inspiring journey and offers valuable insights on promoting inclusivity within associations.

    Key Highlights:

    Career Journey: Samyuktha traces her path in the association management industry, describing her fall into the association world as a happy accident and emphasizing her role in providing governance and leadership support to state associations.

    Personal Advocacy: As a South Asian woman with dwarfism, Samyuktha discusses how her personal experiences have fueled her commitment to DEI and disability advocacy.

    Overcoming Misconceptions: She addresses common misconceptions about disability inclusion in the workplace and shares strategies for associations to actively engage and support both staff and members with disabilities.

    Intersectionality: Samyuktha highlights the importance of recognizing intersectionality within DEI initiatives, enriching association culture with diverse perspectives.

    Practical Implementations: Learn how associations can effectively implement DEI practices, from policy changes to creating inclusive environments that empower all members.

    Join us as Samyuktha Neeraja offers invaluable lessons on fostering an inclusive culture within associations, ensuring that every member has a voice and a place.

    Resources:

    Podcast: A Little PerspectiveBook Series: A Little

    Perspective, Real Stories of Little Ladies

    Blog: Just a Little Traveling

    Stay Connected:

    Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

    Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

    Stay tuned for more episodes that explore innovative solutions and leadership insights within the association world.