The Association Insights Podcast (OnWrd and UpWrd)

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!

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!

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!

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 cgallagher@onwrdupwrd.com 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!

In this episode, Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning of OnWrd & UpWrd Marketing & Communications discuss how the overturning of Roe v. Wade will impact event planning and decision making for associations.

Together, they discuss the role of politics within the association world, and how canceling/keeping events for political reasons brings up membership, legal and financial concerns. Gallagher and Henning share how associations can navigate these issues and they reflect on how social and political events have impacted their own work in the past by looking at data, articles and expert opinions. They pose some questions for associations to consider so they can work together with their members to make these key decisions.

If you want to read more about the Northstar Meetings Group article discussed on the podcast, you can view the full article here.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher welcomes Brent McClendon, President & CEO, and Jason Ortega, Vice President of Public Affairs, of the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA). Together, they unpack the remarkable growth of their association, driven by innovative tools, member engagement and a global advocacy strategy.

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Planning for Growth: Brent and Jason discuss how NWPCA’s focus on building a strong team, resourcing its vision and leveraging its Pallet Design System software fueled membership and revenue growth while expanding its global footprint to 40 countries.

• Global Advocacy Wins: Jason shares insights into NWPCA’s recent success in influencing EU packaging regulations, highlighting the importance of data-driven storytelling, collaborative partnerships and cultural sensitivity.

• Sustainability and Innovation: From a 97% pallet recycling rate to cutting-edge sustainability research, NWPCA’s initiatives demonstrate how associations can drive impactful change for their industries and members.

• Lessons in Leadership: Learn how listening to members, fostering collaboration and embracing change have enabled NWPCA to stay ahead of industry challenges and position itself as a global leader.

  
  

This episode is packed with actionable strategies for associations looking to expand their impact, engage members and lead with purpose.

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 featuring bold strategies, innovative solutions and inspiring leadership to help your association thrive in an ever-changing world.

Join co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay on the A100 podcast this week as they speak with Matt Marcial, CEO of the National Association of College Auxiliary Services (NACAS). Together, they delve into two of their recently launched initiatives: Diversity in Auxiliary Leadership Program and the Women in Higher-Ed Leadership Summit. 

Having been at NACAS for just more than a year, Matt discusses the inspiration for launching the Diversity in Auxiliary Leadership Program, as well as NACAS' efforts to include DEI in everything that they do. He stresses that the program's key objective is to create a community of diverse leaders who can advance the mission of NACAS as well as advance their own careers as well. 

They also discuss the upcoming Women in Higher-Ed Leadership Summit scheduled for September. Matt explains that the summit was created out of a senior executive event to address the industry challenges through the lens of issues women face in the higher education workforce including the pay gap, having a seat at the table and more. 

The episode wraps up with Matt discussing the ways NACAS has supported its members throughout the pandemic, talking about the hybrid workforce and sharing his vision for the future.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas, and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations: 

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In the latest episode of our advocacy series on The Association Insights Podcast (previously The Association 100 podcast - same great content, fresh new name!), host Colleen Gallagher engages in a compelling conversation with Louise St. Germain, Director of Membership, Marketing, and External Relations at theInternational Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH). With over 24 years of experience in membership, marketing, and external relations, including 12 years at the ISTH, Louise shares her journey and the impactful work of the society.

Key Highlights:

• Career Path and Early Experiences: Louise reflects on her diverse background, starting with her role at the American Red Cross during Hurricane Katrina, where she learned the importance of flexibility, resourcefulness, and building relationships. These experiences laid the foundation for her subsequent work in communications and PR for non profits and associations.

• The Power of Partnerships: Emphasizing that "nothing happens alone," Louise discusses the critical role of partnerships in advancing ISTH's mission. Collaborations with entities like the World Health Organization and the European Thrombosis and Haemostasis Alliance have been pivotal in extending the society's reach and impact.

• World Thrombosis Day Campaign: Louise dives into the success of the World Thrombosis Day campaign, an initiative she describes as akin to nurturing a child now in its 12th year. The campaign has significantly increased global awareness of blood clot risks, influenced healthcare policies, and fostered collaborations with numerous organizations and governments worldwide.

• Advocacy and External Relations: Louise outlines the ISTH's multi-pronged approach to advocacy, which leverages scientific evidence, expert voices, and patient stories. Engaging early and often with regulatory bodies like the FDA and EMA, and aligning with broader public health priorities, has been central to their strategy.

• Crisis Communication and Preparedness: Drawing from her early experiences, Louise highlights the importance of proactive crisis communication planning. She advocates for developing clear, living crisis communication response plans and bringing teams along in preparedness efforts to maintain public trust during challenging times.

• Adapting to Policy Changes: In light of recent changes in the U.S. administration, Louise discusses how ISTH remains agile by monitoring global policy shifts and aligning their messaging with evolving healthcare priorities. Positioning ISTH as a nonpartisan, evidence-based organization has been key to effectively engaging with policymakers.

• Future Trends in Advocacy and Public Affairs: Looking ahead, Louise identifies key trends such as the integration of AI and digital strategies, personalized engagement, and cross-sector collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of associations staying relevant by embracing these trends and continually innovating in their approaches.

Join us for this insightful discussion as Louise St. Germain shares her experiences and strategies in association management, marketing, and advocacy, offering valuable takeaways for professionals in the field.

Stay Connected:

• Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast onSpotify,Apple Podcasts orYouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.

• Follow us on LinkedIn atOnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Tune in next week as we continue our advocacy series with another insightful discussion to help associations navigate the evolving political landscape.

Welcome to an exciting episode of The Association 100 podcast, where we spotlight the transformative role of associations in today’s industries. In this episode, we're joined by Gregg Lewis, Chief Communications Officer for the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA), who brings a wealth of knowledge from his unique background as an award-winning architect and now a leader in promoting sustainable building practices.

Gregg shares his journey at NRMCA and how the association is leading the charge in advancing the concrete industry through strategic storytelling, education and advocacy. We take a deep dive into how NRMCA is shaping a more sustainable, efficient future for the built environment.

Key Highlights:

• Gregg's Role at NRMCA: With a rich background in architecture and a focus on sustainability, Gregg discusses his dynamic role in promoting the concrete industry's successes and the importance of storytelling in advancing NRMCA's mission.

• Build with Strength: This initiative is a cornerstone of NRMCA's efforts to educate the building and design communities about the benefits of ready-mixed concrete. Gregg explains how "Build with Strength" is driving value for NRMCA members and influencing the broader industry.

• The Pave Ahead Program: Gregg outlines this forward-thinking program aimed at optimizing concrete use in paving. Through educational outreach and advocacy, "Pave Ahead" is redefining perceptions of concrete's role in sustainable infrastructure.

• Collaboration and Partnerships: Success in industry-wide initiatives often hinges on effective collaboration. Gregg highlights how NRMCA fosters relationships with stakeholders across the construction ecosystem to promote concrete as the material of choice.

• Looking Ahead: As the concrete industry evolves, NRMCA is committed to meeting changing demands and ensuring concrete’s role in a sustainable future. Gregg shares insights into upcoming initiatives and the association's roadmap to carbon neutrality by 2050.

Join us as Gregg Lewis offers a glimpse into the innovative world of concrete, emphasizing the material's pivotal role in sustainable development and how NRMCA is paving the way for a greener, more resilient future.

Resources:

• Learn more about NRMCA's initiatives and programs here.

• Explore the sustainability and innovation in the concrete industry with Build with Strength.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to stay updated on the latest association trends, and follow us for more episodes that delve into the heart of industry leadership and innovation.

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

Stay tuned for more insightful conversations with leaders making a significant impact in their fields.

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Association 100 podcast. In this engaging discussion, we're joined by Ellen Savage, Senior Director of Membership at the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). With a storied career in the association space, Ellen shares her path to TIA and the organization's ambitious Broadband Nation program, aimed at addressing America's digital divide.

Key Highlights:

• Career Journey: Ellen traces her journey from her early days in the tech industry to pivotal roles at the Consumer Technology Association and Manufactured Housing Institute, leading up to her impactful work just underway at TIA.

• Broadband Nation: Tackling the challenge of reliable internet access, TIA's Broadband Nation program stands out as a concerted effort to ensure broadband for all, highlighting the critical need for a skilled workforce to achieve this goal.

• Workforce Development: With over $42 billion earmarked by Congress for broadband expansion, Ellen emphasizes the urgency of workforce development to meet the ambitious targets of deploying networks by the decade's end.

• Innovative Partnerships: Ellen discusses TIA's innovative collaborations, including a partnership with Questex to launch a jobs portal and expo, aiming to attract talent to the telecom industry.

• Navigating Change: From addressing workforce shortages to fostering state-level partnerships, Ellen offers a deep dive into TIA's strategies for overcoming industry challenges and shaping a more connected future.

Join us as Ellen Savage provides a compelling look into how TIA is not just navigating but leading the charge in telecommunications, ensuring that advancements in technology translate into tangible benefits for all. Her insights offer invaluable lessons for association professionals striving to make a difference in their sectors.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Resources:Learn more about TIA’s Broadband Nation program here: https://tiaonline.org/what-we-do/technology-programs/broadband-nation/ 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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

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!

In the latest episode of our February advocacy series on The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Stéphanie Pochon, European Lobbyist with Forward Global, to explore how U.S. associations can effectively engage in European advocacy. With 20 years of experience influencing over 50 pieces of EU legislation, Stéphanie shares practical insights on navigating Brussels, building coalitions, and crafting persuasive advocacy strategies.

Key Highlights:

Getting Started in EU Advocacy – The European Union can seem like a complex system, but associations shouldn’t be intimidated. Learn how to take the first steps in engaging policymakers before a crisis arises.

A Case Study in Success – Hear how one U.S. trade association secured a critical exemption in EU legislation by leveraging targeted engagement, coalition-building, and a compelling narrative.

Understanding the EU Policy Process – Unlike the fast-paced U.S. political landscape, EU legislation moves at a different speed. Discover how associations can adapt their strategies for long-term influence.

Keys to Effective Lobbying – From understanding regulatory priorities to forging global partnerships, find out what makes advocacy efforts successful on an international stage.

What’s Next for EU Regulations? – Major policy shifts in sustainability, digital regulation, and trade are shaping the EU’s agenda. Get insights into what’s ahead and how associations can stay ahead of the curve.

With more associations looking to expand their advocacy beyond U.S. borders, this episode provides must-know strategies for making an impact in Europe. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your global advocacy approach, these insights will help your association engage effectively in the EU.

🎧 Tune in now for expert strategies to navigate international advocacy with confidence!

Stay Connected:

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

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

Tune in next week as we continue our advocacy series with another insightful discussion to help associations navigate the evolving political landscape.

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher continues the January media series with Jay Campbell, co-founder of The Company Dime and a veteran journalist with over 30 years of experience in travel trade publishing. From his early days at Boston University to launching The Company Dime, Jay shares his journey, insights into modern journalism, and the unique challenges and opportunities within the business travel sector.

Key Highlights:

• A Career in Trade Journalism: Jay discusses his path into journalism, the evolution of travel trade publishing, and how the internet reshaped the industry.

• The Company Dime’s Mission: Learn why Jay and co-founder David Jonas launched The Company Dime, the decision to adopt a subscription model, and how they’ve maintained editorial independence to build trust with readers.

• Storytelling & Audience Investment: Jay shares his approach to delivering high-value content, focusing on brevity, clarity, and making every word count for their niche audience.

• PR Insights from a Journalist’s Perspective: Discover why exclusivity matters in pitches, the importance of tailored outreach, and how PR professionals can better collaborate with journalists.

• Making an Impact During the Pandemic: Jay reflects on The Company Dime’s initiatives to support laid-off industry professionals during COVID-19, offering free subscriptions and career-focused content to help the travel community navigate unprecedented challenges.

Join us as Jay Campbell shares practical insights and candid reflections on trade journalism, storytelling, and the dynamic relationship between PR and the media.

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 next week as we continue our media series with another outstanding guest sharing their expertise and tips for successful PR and media collaborations!

Welcome to another episode of The Association 100 podcast, where we dive into the world of associations to bring you the best practices, top trends and smart strategies that make a difference. Today, hosts Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning of OnWrd & UpWrd are joined by Song Heo, the SVP of Media Strategy and Client Partnerships at EMC Outdoor, to explore the transformative power of Out of Home (OOH) advertising for associations.

Song brings over 24 years of experience at EMC Outdoor, a certified woman-owned business dedicated to driving business growth through strategic OOH media use. She shares insights into how OOH advertising, ranging from billboards to digital screens in coffee shops, can significantly impact audience engagement and association revenue.

Key Highlights:

• What is Out of Home Advertising?: Song defines OOH as any advertising that occurs outside of the residential home, offering a unique channel to reach audiences en masse and engage them in the physical world.

• Importance for Association Professionals: Associations should leverage OOH advertising to enhance attendee engagement and provide effective solutions for exhibitors. This not only supports exhibitor success but also opens up new sponsorship and revenue opportunities for the association itself.

• Successful Outcomes: Song shares examples of how EMC Outdoor has helped associations generate significant revenue through targeted OOH campaigns, emphasizing the scalability and customizability of OOH to meet different exhibitors' needs and budgets.

• Beyond the Booth Survey Insights: The discussion also covers insights from EMC Outdoor's survey on exhibitors' attitudes towards sponsorships. Focusing on the "struggling" segment, Song discusses how associations can support these exhibitors to overcome challenges and achieve success at events.

• Innovative Campaigns and Experiential Activations: From chalk art campaigns to mobile billboards, Song highlights some of the most memorable and innovative OOH campaigns EMC Outdoor has executed, demonstrating the power of personalized, one-on-one engagements to amplify an exhibitor's presence and connect with audiences.

• Getting Started with OOH for Associations: For associations looking to explore OOH advertising, Song advises focusing on audience-first strategies and considering how to create valuable solutions for exhibitors while generating additional revenue for the association.

The conversation wraps up with some fun, personal questions, giving listeners a glimpse into Song's background, her love for matcha lattes, and her bucket list travel destinations.

For more insights and innovative ideas on leveraging OOH advertising for your association, check out EMC Outdoor's website and find their survey results here.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest best practices, trends and strategies making waves in the association world.

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

Stay tuned for more episodes that bring you closer to the experts and innovators transforming the association industry.

View the full transcript here (auto-generated).

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher speaks with Tim Ebner, Director of Communications & Marketing at the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI). Tim brings a wealth of experience from his background in journalism and association communications to champion sustainability and innovation in the metal can industry. Through initiatives like the “2 Million Cans Recycling Contest” and “Every Can Counts,” Tim and his team at CMI are creating powerful community engagement and awareness around the environmental impact of metal cans.

Key Highlights:

Sustainability with Impact: Tim shares how CMI is driving sustainability by promoting the circular economy of aluminum and steel cans, which can be recycled infinitely. This commitment to reducing waste is supported by ambitious goals to improve recycling rates and reduce the carbon footprint of metal cans by 2030, 2040 and 2050.

Engaging Communities through the 2 Million Cans Contest: CMI’s “2 Million Cans Recycling Contest” is an educational and community-focused initiative that partners with schools to teach students about recycling and sustainability. Tim discusses how this grassroots campaign not only recycles cans but also reinvests in local communities, creating a tangible impact that reinforces the importance of environmental stewardship.

AI-Driven Recycling Innovation: CMI is also exploring AI technology to boost recycling rates. Tim explains how optical-sorting robots identify and sort aluminum cans at recycling facilities, ensuring these valuable materials are correctly processed and reintegrated into the circular economy. This tech-forward approach demonstrates CMI’s dedication to integrating innovation in sustainability efforts.

Check out this Axios article: AI robot helps recover and recycle beverage cans

Bringing Your Whole Self to Work: Tim emphasizes the importance of blending personal passions with professional roles. He encourages association professionals to explore creative interests outside of work, as these pursuits can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to their daily roles.

Join us as Tim Ebner shares valuable insights on how associations can foster community engagement, promote sustainability and leverage creativity to drive industry impact.

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 featuring expert insights to drive your association's advocacy and mission forward!

On the latest episode of The A100, OnWrd & UpWrd co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay talk all things video with Jim Wacksman of Association Studios. 

“Video truly is king. It’s multi-sensory, it’s very cost effective. It’s just important for any organization,” Jim shares.

The conversation centers on how much change has taken place in this space over the last decade as well as how associations can use video to communicate with their members, to market their events, to advocate for their key issues, to onboard their staff and so much more. Jim says he’s seeing an increase in the use of short-form video outside of the typical use cases for member stories or onboarding and other internal staff uses.

We talk about the typical mistakes associations make with video like trying to cram too much into one video or not understanding why you want a video to be a certain length.

Jim shares video success stories from associations highlighting one large expo that leveraged industry podcasters with strong followings. They produced videos with the various podcasters to help promote the show and in turn gave them their own podcast pavilions to record live from the show. Voices and messages were amplified all around, creating a win-win for everyone. 

When it comes to videos for driving member engagement, Jim hits the nail on the head saying, “Nothing speaks to a member like a member.”

The conversation wraps with a focus on integrating AI into your video process. The advice: remember to have fun with it and embrace change to stay on top of emerging trends.  

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome to a special Mental Health Awareness Month edition of The Association 100 podcast. In today's episode, we're joined by Earl Franks, Executive Director at the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). Earl returns to share the latest initiatives NAESP is spearheading, including their upcoming joint conference focused on comprehensive school leadership from pre-K through grade 12.

Key Highlights:

• Joint Efforts in Leadership Conferences: Learn about the NAESP's collaborative conference efforts with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, highlighting themes like leadership capacity and inclusivity in school climates.

• Mental Health Crisis in Schools: In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Earl delves into the ongoing mental health crisis affecting both students and staff in schools, emphasizing the critical need for support and federal backing for educational wellness.

• Building Community and Support Networks: Discover how NAESP facilitates connections among school leaders nationwide, offering support networks that tackle the isolation often felt in leadership roles.

• Innovative Resources and Strategies: Earl discusses resources and strategies implemented by NAESP to aid school leaders in fostering social-emotional learning and well-being among educators and students.

Join host Colleen Gallagher as we explore how NAESP is making strides in education leadership and mental health advocacy. This episode provides essential insights for association professionals looking to enhance support structures and strategic advocacy within their 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.

Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into the strategies and insights powering successful associations.

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!

In this first episode of our February advocacy series on The Association Insights Podcast (previously The Association 100 podcast), host Meghan Henning engages in a compelling conversation with Tuck Shumack, Principal at OGR, a bipartisan government relations firm. With over 25 years of experience in public policy and government relations, Tuck offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of a new administration.

Key Highlights:

• Adapting to Political Shifts: Tuck discusses the importance of understanding the evolving political landscape and how associations can effectively adjust their strategies to align with new administrative priorities.

• Building Bipartisan Relationships: Emphasizing the significance of maintaining relationships across party lines, Tuck shares strategies for associations to establish and strengthen connections with policymakers, regardless of political affiliation.

• Strategic Advocacy Planning: Tuck provides practical advice on developing comprehensive advocacy plans that account for potential policy changes and leverage opportunities within the new administration.

• Engaging with Policymakers: Highlighting the need for associations to proactively engage with both new and returning policymakers, Tuck offers tips on effective communication and relationship-building techniques.

• Leveraging External Expertise: Tuck discusses when and how associations should consider partnering with lobbying firms to enhance their advocacy efforts, especially during times of political transition.

  
  

Join us as Tuck Shumack shares his expert perspectives on steering associations through the challenges and opportunities presented by a new administration.

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 OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

  
  

Tune in next week as we continue our advocacy series with another insightful discussion to help associations navigate the evolving political landscape.

Welcome to another engaging episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we're thrilled to have Anita Brikman, the dynamic President and CEO of the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA). With a rich history in healthcare communications and advocacy, Anita shares her journey into the heart of the plasma protein therapy world and her pivotal first year at PPTA.

Key Highlights:

• Transitioning Leadership: Anita discusses her approach to understanding PPTA's unique culture and the importance of connecting with each team member. Her focus on bridging the gap between the U.S. and European teams underlines her commitment to a cohesive global strategy.

• Industry Deep Dive: Understanding the critical role of plasma collection centers and the production of lifesaving therapies for rare diseases was a priority for Anita. She emphasizes the significance of educating the public and stakeholders about plasma-derived therapies.

• Effective Communication and Strategy: Drawing from her extensive background in journalism and communications, Anita stresses the importance of communication, not just for messaging, but for inspiring action and fostering a culture of active listening and strategic thinking within the organization.

• Board Collaboration: Navigating PPTA’s unique governance structure, Anita has worked closely with various boards to align on shared goals and strategies, emphasizing the importance of one-on-one interactions and strategic planning.

• Navigating Change: Whether it’s the transition to a more Washington, D.C.-centric location or adapting to a hybrid work model, Anita shares how transparency and strategic planning are key to managing change effectively.

Anita's story is a testament to the power of strategic communication and leadership in driving an organization forward. Her vision for PPTA not only aims at advancing plasma protein therapies but also at ensuring these critical medicines reach those in need. Join us as Anita Brickman offers a glimpse into the future of plasma protein therapeutics and her role in shaping this vital industry.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest best practices, trends and strategies making waves in the association world.

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

Stay tuned for more episodes that bring you insights from the front lines of association leadership.

Evan Sparks, SVP, Member Communications and Podcast Host at the American Bankers Association as well as Editor in Chief of the ABA Banking Journal shares his secrets with the A100 for producing a successful association podcast.

Having launched five years ago with a goal of 500 downloads to keep it going, he now expects to hit over 100,000 downloads in a year. Evan talks about why he prefers the audio-only format, how he plans out his editorial calendar, tackling tough subjects and how the podcast fits into the overall communications strategy.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Intro/Outro Audio Credit:

Ketsa

Track: Poppin-Off

https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Ketsa/ascendance/poppin-off

The latest episode of The A100 podcast features Barb Jones, CEO of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI), alongside OnWrd & UpWrd’s Meghan Henning. Broadcast live from the ASAE annual conference, the two discuss artificial intelligence and how to manage change within a well-established organization. 

CLSI boasts a history that spans five decades, with only three CEOs in charge throughout its existence. Barb says that navigating change within this legacy organization has been remarkably easy. When your mission is deeply ingrained, well-structured and widely understood, change is natural. It’s a testament to the power of a strong mission. 

The pair also discussed the increasing popularity of artificial intelligence and how it could potentially impact the clinical and laboratory domain. Barb has a data scientist daughter who has shared insights into the intricacies of AI. She explains it as a computer program that is tirelessly learning from vast amounts of data, 24/7, more than we as humans could ever do in years. It never gets tired, and it never has to sleep. The challenge lies in the data itself, since biased or false information can influence artificial intelligence’s outcomes. As Barb puts it, “you can use these very powerful tools about 80 percent of the way, and then there’s a point at which you need to have humans come in and be a part of the process.” 

Barb and Meghan agree that there are challenges, but also opportunities that come with the use of artificial intelligence. There needs to be a middle ground in terms of using it, and organizations that have determined effective use cases have a leg up. 

Tune in to this episode for an in-depth look at how organizations can thrive by embracing change and harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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!

Our March Leadership Series kicks off on The Association Insights Podcast with Brandie Thacker, AAP, CAE, MBA, President & CEO of EPCOR. Brandie’s leadership journey—from communications and marketing to the C-suite—offers valuable lessons for association professionals navigating change, strategy, and member engagement.

With nearly two decades in the payments industry, Brandie shares how she transitioned into her CEO role, the challenges and opportunities facing EPCOR, and how she’s fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and innovation.

Key Highlights:

From Comms to CEO – Brandie shares her career path and how her background in communications shapes her leadership approach.

Balancing Strategy & Execution – How she’s shifting from a departmental focus to leading EPCOR’s big-picture vision while keeping teams aligned.

Navigating Industry Change – With rapid advancements in payments technology, how EPCOR is helping members stay ahead.

Member-Centric Innovation – How EPCOR is using AI, data, and new tech to better serve members and personalize engagement.

The Future of Association Leadership – Brandie’s take on what association leaders must prioritize to stay relevant and drive impact.

🎧 Listen now for leadership insights that apply to associations of all sizes and industries!

Stay Connected:

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

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

Coming Soon: Our March Leadership Series continues with top association CEOs sharing their strategies for leading through change, building strong teams, and driving innovation.

In this episode of The Association 100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher concludes the January media series with an engaging panel discussion featuring O&U’s Meghan Henning, Co-Founder and Senior PR Strategist, and Keaveny Hewitt, Senior Account Executive. Together, they reflect on key takeaways from the series and share insights from their experiences into building meaningful media relationships, adapting to the evolving landscape, and celebrating PR wins.

Key Highlights:

• Evolving Media Outreach: Meghan shares how media relations have returned to prioritizing relationships, emphasizing the value of personalized connections over mass pitches.

• Personalized Pitching Strategies: Keaveny discusses her success with leveraging shared interests to establish rapport with journalists, transforming transactions into genuine collaborations.

• Navigating Challenges: Learn how persistence, adaptability, and a deep understanding of news cycles can help overcome the frustration of unanswered pitches.

• Celebrating PR Wins: From local broadcast placements to building trust with reporters, the team highlights the importance of recognizing and learning from successes.

• Becoming the Go-To Source: Colleen and her team discuss strategies for using earned media to position associations as thought leaders, emphasizing the role of authentic opinions and proactive storytelling.

  
  

Join us for this insightful wrap-up as we reflect on the lessons learned and strategies shared throughout the January media series, setting the stage for even more impactful PR efforts in 2025.

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.

Coming Soon: Don’t miss our February advocacy series, where we’ll share actionable tips for associations navigating advocacy under a new administration!

[⁠View the full transcript here.⁠]

Welcome to a compelling new episode of The Association 100 podcast, where we're kicking off 2024 with a focus on enhancing accessibility within the association community. Our guest, Rosemarie Rossetti, PhD, a renowned accessibility expert and consultant, joins co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning of OnWrd & UpWrd to share invaluable insights on accommodating people with disabilities at meetings and events.

In this episode, Rosemarie delves into her personal journey to becoming an advocate for disability inclusion, sparked by her own life-changing accident in 1998. With a career spanning over 27 years, she explains how her company evolved to specialize in assisting associations to create more inclusive environments for all attendees.

Rosemarie emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, from initial announcements to detailed registration processes, ensuring that every participant's needs are anticipated and met. She offers practical advice for associations venturing into accessibility improvements, suggesting partnerships with experienced consultants to navigate the intricate process effectively.

Listeners will learn about the key factors to consider for accessible event planning, including venue selection, communication strategies and budgeting for inclusivity. Rosemarie shares her recent experience consulting for a major association's annual meeting, highlighting the impact of thoughtful accommodations like complimentary scooters for attendees.

This episode also explores the transition to virtual events, where Rosemarie recommends simple yet significant adjustments to make online gatherings more accessible. She underscores the need for clear communication and the integration of accessibility features, such as captioning and sign language interpretation, from the outset.

As associations strive to be more inclusive, Rosemarie points out common challenges they face, including financial constraints and the necessity for leadership support. She concludes with optimistic reflections on the future of accessibility in the association space, envisioning a year marked by widespread adoption of best practices and a genuine commitment to inclusivity.

Join us for this enlightening discussion on making accessibility a cornerstone of association event planning. Whether you're new to the topic or seeking to enhance your organization's efforts, Rosemarie's expertise and passion will inspire and guide you towards creating more welcoming and accommodating events for everyone.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest best practices, trends, and strategies making waves in the association world.

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

Stay tuned for more episodes that bring you closer to the experts and innovators transforming the association industry.

The latest episode of the A100 podcast features Rusty Willams, Co-Founder of AnswerStage alongside podcast co-hosts, OnWrd & UpWrd’s Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning. He shares valuable insights around the role of video in association marketing from member recruitment and retention to event marketing.  

Rusty’s philosophy around video when it comes to associations starts with the thought that your most valuable marketing asset as an association is your members – you need to leverage the people who attend your events and really participate in your community. 

The conversation turns to the importance of storytelling, especially when thinking about the role of video in driving member engagement. Get your members to tell the stories of why they joined, how your resources have helped them, how volunteering has been fulfilling – and more. The more you can leverage the voices, people and personalities of your association, the better.

It’s no surprise that video can play a huge role in event marketing as well. He encourages associations to showcase speakers providing a sneak preview, exhibitors sharing the products and services they are most excited about and attendees talking about what they’ll get out of the event. Not only can this drive registration, but it can get people geared up and ready to be active from the moment they walk in the doors to your event.

Rusty shares some great case studies and success stories, but perhaps most importantly encourages associations to have a plan, and make sure that plan fits into your overall content marketing and membership strategy. You also need someone to own that plan and finally, don’t forget to have a clear path for how a video gets shared and gets visibility.  

Like most communications and marketing discussions these days, the conversation ultimately shifts to AI. There is no doubt AI will shift the landscape when it comes to video, but Rusty focuses on thinking of it as AI-assisted, rather than AI-created content for now. It can help you eliminate that blank paper syndrome, but work still needs to be done to get it to the finish line and maintain authenticity. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Keith Krueger, MPA, CAE, CEO of The Consortium for School Networking, returns to the A100 - this time as a guest on podcast, hosted by Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning. The three of them explore the findings and highlights of CoSN’s 2023 global Driving K-12 Innovation reports. 

They talk through the hurdles in the way of innovation in today’s school, the accelerators paving the way for teaching and innovation, and what the most important technology enablers are for schools to leverage this year. Keith shares insights around the problems technology can help solve, as well as the changing expectations in today’s world. He emphasizes that the report is “not intended to be tablets from heaven to tell you the answer, rather it’s a spark for conversation.”

The three delve into important resources that can assist districts in overcoming challenges and adopting new technologies, and of course the conversation turns to the integration of AI and ChatGPT technology.

The conversation wraps with Keith's vision for the future looking at what progress and changes he is most hopeful to witness by the time this report is released again next year. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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!

In this special year-end episode of The A100 Podcast, we’re re-airing the live broadcast of the 2024 A100 CommImpact Awards ceremony, originally streamed on YouTube Live. Hosted by Colleen Gallagher, CEO of OnWrd & UpWrd, and Meghan Henning, Senior PR Strategist and Founding Partner, this event celebrated the exceptional achievements of associations in communications and engagement.

Key Highlights:

• Best Media Relations Campaign: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy’s impactful mental health campaign garnered over 100 high-profile media placements.

• Outstanding Internal Communications: Tennessee Concrete Association’s creative board engagement initiatives, including Be Pro Be Proud Tennessee and Skate4Concrete.

• Effective Member Engagement Initiative: BSA | The Software Alliance’s Why AI? campaign showcased how modest budgets can drive global advocacy.

• Innovative Content Strategy: American Society of Civil Engineers’ use of peer-reviewed research to align with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

• Thought Leadership and Research: National Association for Law Placement’s Jobs & JDs report offered deep insights into legal employment trends and racial disparities, driving equity-focused conversations in the sector.

• Advocacy Excellence: Muscular Dystrophy Association’s #AccessibleAirTravel campaign led to legislative wins in air travel accessibility.

• Event Promotion Excellence: Sea Tow Foundation’s virtual Life Jacket Loaner Conference expanded its safety program nationwide.

• Leadership in Public Awareness Campaign: American Medical Association’s mifepristone access campaign drove national discourse and secured a significant Supreme Court victory.

  
  

Join us in celebrating these associations for their creativity, leadership, and impact.

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 that celebrate the innovation and achievements of associations shaping the future.

The American Forest & Paper Association’s Jamie Tiralla, Director, Strategic Communications, and Jesse Levine, Senior Director, Energy and Environmental Policy, joined The A100 podcast to talk about the critical importance of sustainability. The two shared insights on creating sustainability goals and how other associations can begin to think about setting goals of their own.

Their recommendations: you must begin to think about sustainability goals and initiatives by assessing your operations and programs, identifying areas for improvement, and setting realistic and measurable goals. Doing this sends a message to the industry that associations are committed to a more sustainable future.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome to an enlightening episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today's discussion is unique as we dive into a crucial topic with our very own O&U team – Colleen Gallagher, Meghan Henning and Christine Stay. We tackle the vital role of communications within associations and share strategies to not only get your board to prioritize communications, but also to leave a lasting impression through your media efforts.

Key Highlights:

• The Critical Role of Communications: Colleen opens the conversation with a deep dive into why effective communications and PR are indispensable for associations. From building trust and managing reputation to engaging members, we explore the foundation of a robust communications strategy.

• Educating the Board: The team discusses the challenges and solutions in making the board understand the importance of communications. We emphasize the need for strategic planning, setting clear goals and showcasing tangible benefits to foster board support.

• Demonstrating Value through Metrics: We dissect the significance of utilizing metrics to illustrate the ROI of communications efforts. From media ad value equivalency to website traffic and engagement, we detail how these measures can make the case for communications investment to your board.

• Navigating Crisis Communications: Meghan shares compelling examples of crisis communications done right, highlighting the Tylenol crisis as a textbook case of effective crisis management. The discussion reinforces the importance of preparation, transparency and strategic response in safeguarding your association's reputation.

• Innovative Campaigns for Impact: We celebrate successful communication campaigns that have made significant impacts within their industries. From thought leadership initiatives that influence legislative actions to member engagement efforts that foster industry-wide appreciation, these examples serve as inspiration for any association looking to make a difference.

Join the O&U team as we provide actionable insights and lessons on elevating your association's communications strategy. Whether you're looking to gain board support or impress them with your media prowess, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for association professionals eager to enhance their communications efforts.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Resources:

Discover more about effective communication strategies and other association insights here: https://onwrdupwrd.com/communications-and-marketing-resources-for-associations/ 

Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd.

Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into the strategies and insights powering successful associations.

Welcome to the latest episode of The A100 podcast, where hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Wendy-Jo Toyama, MBA CAE FASAE, CEO of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, an Association Management Center client. As the honoree of the 2024 Woman of Influence at the Association Forum's upcoming Women's Executive Forum, Toyama shares her journey of leadership, her unwavering commitment to DEI and her role in shaping a future that celebrates diversity and inclusion within the association community and beyond.

Toyama emphasizes the significance of small, consistent actions in advancing DEI, the need for organizations to start their DEI journey with concrete steps and how events like the Women's Executive Forum foster a supportive community for women in the sector.

Key Highlights:

• Woman of Influence: Toyama reflects on the significance of her recognition and the importance of peer recognition in her career.

• DEI Initiatives: From addressing the bamboo ceiling for AANHPI professionals to systemic changes within associations, Toyama discusses her comprehensive approach to DEI.

• Advice for Aspiring Leaders: Emphasizing persistence, the value of feedback, and the courage to stretch beyond comfort zones, Toyama offers advice to women aiming for leadership roles.

• Power of Community: Highlighting the transformative impact of the Women's Executive Forum, Toyama speaks on the importance of supportive networks for women in the association sector.

• Looking Ahead: Toyama shares her vision for the future of DEI in associations, including a focus on disability inclusion, neurodiversity and ensuring representation for all communities.

Join us for this inspiring episode, packed with actionable insights, personal reflections, and an engaging "Just for Fun" lightning round that offers a closer look at Toyama's personal interests, including her passion for reading. We’re certain you’ll end up with a few books for your must-read list. Don't miss Wendy-Jo Toyama's compelling narrative on leadership, DEI and the power of influence in the association world.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest best practices, trends and strategies making waves in the association world.

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

Stay tuned for more episodes that connect you with the leaders and changemakers shaping the association world.

In this special New Year’s episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher reflects on the dramatic changes in the media and PR landscape and sets the stage for 2025. Colleen shares insights from her two decades in PR, explores how the industry has come full circle to rely on relationships, and provides actionable strategies for associations to amplify their voices and become the go-to source in their industries.

Key Highlights:

• The Evolving Media Landscape: Explore how shrinking newsrooms and faster news cycles have made relationships more critical than ever.

• Keys to Effective Press Outreach: Learn practical tips for targeted pitching, crafting compelling stories and building trust with reporters.

• Momentum Builder Success Stories: Hear how associations can start small with trade and local media to build momentum for national coverage.

Suzanne Struglinski, PR Manager for Industry Dive, joined the A100 podcast to share her insights on earned media and what association comms professionals need to know to improve their media relations efforts.

She discusses the disconnect between what association leaders see as news and what reporters see as news, while emphasizing the importance of being a resource for reporters. She also shares thoughts on the unique relationship between PR professionals and journalists.

“Reporters want news,” she says. “You need to build those relationships, making sure you understand who you're pitching, why you’re pitching and keeping in mind that you want to be a resource to these journalists.”

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along on social media for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100
LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Follow Suzanne or reach out via email:
Twitter: @SuzanneStrug
LinkedIn: /in/suzannestruglinski/
Email: sstruglinski@industrydive.com

Liz Huh, leading events consultant, shares her insights on how associations can create events that focus on members’ voices and interests.

She discusses how COVID has impacted event planning, and the importance of adjusting timelines and forming strong partnerships with vendors and venues. Liz takes a look at supply chain and food expenses and how these issues impact event coordinators and their budgets. She shares the overall value of events, both virtual and in-person, and how integral they are for bringing organizations together to elevate branding, increase revenue and empower members.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Get to know the publishers of The Association 100 in our inaugural podcast. Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning take you behind the scenes to learn about their backgrounds, what brought them to DC, and what to expect from the future of The A100.

They share their favorite memories, most interesting projects and toughest challenges from their association days while also discussing the changing nature of PR in today’s world.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along with The Association 100 for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

You can subscribe to The Association 100 newsletter here.

Intro/Outro Audio Credit:
Ketsa
Track: Poppin-Off
https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Ketsa/ascendance/poppin-off

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!

A Gallup poll said the number of people quiet quitting is higher than 50%.

91% of employees are willing to quit their job if it’s not what they thought it would be or if they don’t like it within the first month.

These are some powerful stats. The O&U team delve into the repercussions of resigning on this episode, chatting through concerns such as toxic work environments, the impact of a job on mental health and having tough conversations at work. 

We also explore the key aspects of resigning gracefully and responsibly, considering the long-lasting effects on personal reputation and professional relationships. There is indeed a right way to resign. By navigating the process with tact and thoughtfulness, you can maintain your professional standing, minimize potential conflicts, and ensure a smooth transition for all parties involved.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas, and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations: 

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

On the latest episode of The A100, OnWrd & UpWrd co-founders Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning look back on 2022, discussing some of the most exciting and innovative association client projects over this past year. Highlights included a workforce campaign addressing a major membership challenge, a full rebrand, a multi-faceted year-long PR and digital campaign to promote a special journal issue and a recognition program focused on everyday people doing good things.

From there they shift gears to communications and marketing trends association professionals need to be thinking about in 2023. We hit on messaging, AI, pitching and the return of in-person events. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Christine Stay, Meghan Henning, and Colleen Gallagher of the OnWrd & UpWrd team take over the A100 podcast to talk about how to manage a hybrid workforce and how to keep your company culture alive. Their valuable insights cover a range of topics, including effective ways to keep your team connected, staying organized with project management tools, and ensuring that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities.

From there, the discussion moves on to ways of creating a comfortable working environment for employees. The conversation covers the significance of conducting regular check-ins with staff, organizing in person meetings or staff retreats at least once a quarter or year to bring everyone together, and the value of providing opportunities for professional development.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas, and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations.

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome back to The Association 100 podcast. In this episode, timed with Mental Health Awareness Month, OnWrd & UpWrd co-hosts Colleen Gallagher, Meghan Henning and Christine Stay delve deep into mental health in the workplace, especially within associations.

Key Highlights:

Mental Health Awareness: The team discusses the historical context and evolving perceptions of mental health since Mental Health Awareness Month began in 1949. This segment highlights the critical role workplaces play in shaping mental health landscapes and fostering cultures of empathy and resilience.

Staggering Statistics: Christine presents alarming statistics from the National Alliance of Mental Illness, emphasizing the economic and personal impacts of untreated mental illnesses. This discussion underscores why mental health is not just a personal issue but a significant workplace concern.

COVID-19 Impact: Meghan explores how the pandemic has magnified mental health issues, discussing the profound effects on personal and professional lives. We discuss strategies associations implemented to combat isolation and maintain connections during remote work transitions.

Addressing Workplace Mental Health: We share insights on how associations can actively support their employees’ mental health, from implementing flexible work policies to fostering an inclusive environment that respects diverse needs and challenges.

Personal Perspectives: Reflecting on our experiences, we discuss the ongoing challenges and strategies for managing mental health in high-stress environments like associations, where small teams often wear multiple hats.

Join us as we tackle these essential topics, offering insights and strategies that can help any association enhance workplace well-being and productivity. Tune in to discover how embracing mental health initiatives can lead to a more engaged and supportive work 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.

Stay tuned for more episodes that explore the transformative power of effective storytelling and strategic communication in the association world.

On the latest episode of The A100, OnWrd & UpWrd co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay talk with Frank Caliva, national spokesperson for the Retail Energy Supply Association (RESA). Frank is also the president of P.R. Quinlan, a B2B consulting firm focused on retail energy policy. 

“How can you communicate the most important messages and do it the most effective way possible,” Frank shares. “That’s what our job is and that’s what we’re trying to do is make people care about something in the right way, for the right moment, to do the thing we need them to do while also recognizing they have competing interests and obligations and things they care about.”

Delving into his role as a national spokesperson, Frank provides valuable insights on engaging with state-focused journalists, delivering testimony to state legislatures, and crafting messaging for consumers and mass market audiences via social media, blogs, and other channels.

The discussion takes an intriguing turn, exploring the challenges of balancing the interests of individual association members while representing the industry as a whole. Frank highlights the importance of building consensus within RESA to articulate a unified organizational stance, distinct from the opinions of individual members. 

On the preparation, cool factor and nerves that come with the opportunity to testify before a state legislature, Frank shares, “I think you need to be a little bit scared before you speak in public on a serious topic.” Be confident in your position, while staying flexible and consistent in messaging. He emphasizes the significance of obtaining buy-in from internal stakeholders to ensure a cohesive voice for the organization.

Navigating state-specific issues in 14 markets, Frank reveals the necessity of being swiftly informed on regional nuances to represent RESA effectively.

He also candidly shares an invaluable lesson—understanding that the audience may not be as invested in communications as the communicator themselves, stressing the importance of crafting messages that resonate and inspire action.

So what does success look like for a national spokesperson? While setting reasonable expectations, Frank believes success lies in delivering key messages to the right people at the right time ensuring RESA is the go-to-source for industry news.

Be sure to catch this episode for an illuminating conversation on association communications, industry representation and the strategic challenges faced by a national spokesperson.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In the final episode of our February advocacy series on The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), to discuss the biggest policy challenges facing the tech industry and how CTA is navigating the evolving political landscape.

With over 30 years leading one of the most influential trade associations in the U.S., Gary shares his perspective on working with the Trump administration, advocating for innovation, and addressing major issues like tariffs, trade policy, and supply chain resilience.

Key Highlights:

Navigating Policy Shifts – With the new administration in place, Gary breaks down how CTA is engaging with policymakers and advocating for pro-innovation policies.

The Tariff Debate – CTA has been vocal about the economic impact of tariffs. Gary discusses how proposed tariffs could drive up consumer tech prices and disrupt supply chains. Resource: CTA developed a landing page with clear, impactful language and research describing the trade and tariff issues, and included a call for CTA members to share their stories on how tariffs have impacted their businesses.

The Global Tech Landscape – From international trade agreements to regulatory shifts in Europe, Gary discusses how global partnerships are essential to maintaining U.S. competitiveness.

Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Tech – With AI dominating industry conversations, what policies are needed to support responsible AI development while keeping the U.S. ahead in the innovation race?

Effective Advocacy Strategies – With decades of experience influencing policy, Gary shares his best advice for associations looking to make an impact in Washington.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on the future of tech advocacy, trade, and innovation—and what associations can learn from CTA’s approach to navigating change.

🎧 Listen now for expert strategies on advocacy in a rapidly evolving policy environment!

Stay Connected:

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

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

  
  

Coming Soon: Don’t miss our March Leadership Series, where we’ll feature insights from top CEOs in the association world on leadership, strategy, and navigating change.

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 cgallagher@onwrdupwrd.com.

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 cgallagher@onwrdupwrd.com.

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 cgallagher@onwrdupwrd.com.

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 cgallagher@onwrdupwrd.com.

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 engaging episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we are thrilled to host Kara Dickerson, Founder and Principal of Content With Impact LLC, and former head of CES Keynote Stage and Conference. Drawing from her extensive experience, Kara shares invaluable strategies for enhancing event content to captivate new audiences and unlock new revenue streams.

Key Highlights:

• Content Strategy Insights: Kara delves into how data-driven strategies can reshape event content, tailoring experiences to engage diverse industries and expand audience bases.

• Championing Diversity: Reflecting on her leadership at CES, Kara discusses her proactive approach to ensuring diversity in event programming, setting standards that champion inclusivity.

• Bridging Organizational Silos: Kara offers practical advice for aligning event content with membership goals, emphasizing the importance of breaking down silos between event and membership teams to amplify impact.

• Global Event Experience: With a backdrop of launching events across continents, Kara provides a look into creating dynamic and impactful global conferences that resonate across diverse cultures and industries.

Join host Colleen Gallagher as we explore Kara's journey from leading the CES stage to empowering associations through her consultancy, providing a roadmap for transforming events into powerful engagement platforms. Whether you're an event planner, association executive or industry leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can revolutionize how you approach event content and engagement.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd.

Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into the strategies and insights powering successful associations.

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Keaveny Hewitt continues the January media series with Alysia Wiebe, news producer at ABC30 in Fresno, California. With over a decade of experience in local journalism, Alysia offers an insider’s perspective on what drives local news coverage and how producers adapt to the rapidly changing media landscape.

Key Highlights:

• From Viewer to Newsroom Leader: Alysia shares her journey from growing up watching ABC30 to landing her first internship there and building a career as a trusted news producer.

• The Power of Local Journalism: Explore how local news connects with communities by spotlighting local businesses, events, and issues, building trust and fostering engagement.

• Adapting to Audience Behaviors: Alysia discusses how ABC30 has evolved to meet the demands of digital and social media platforms, from app push notifications to TikTok videos.

• Live at Three: Discover the inspiration behind ABC30’s unique afternoon newscast, its focus on community-oriented content, and how the team keeps it fresh and relevant.

• Pitching Tips for PR Pros: Alysia shares what makes a great pitch stand out, the importance of relationships, and why tailoring your outreach is key to successful collaboration.

• Future of Local News: Gain insights into how technology and resourceful storytelling are shaping the future of local journalism.

  
  

Join us as Alysia Wiebe provides practical advice and candid reflections on the evolving world of local news and the essential role of community-focused journalism.

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 next week as we continue our media series with another outstanding guest sharing their expertise and tips for successful PR and media collaborations!

Amanda Cecil, full-time professor and expert on association education programming, joins the A100 podcast to discuss how associations can create powerful programming. With over 20 years of experience as a professor in tourism and events management, and a decade of experience with associations, Amanda shares her insights on how associations can truly optimize their educational resources, content and curriculum design.

Amanda brings in her own lens as a parent of a college student to discuss how the narrative around four year degrees and education in associations is evolving. She walks through what challenges association leaders need to overcome, the importance of experiential learning and how membership plays a role in every step of the way.

Together, Amanda and the hosts stress how important collaboration, creativity and communication are when it comes to developing educational programming at any level.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher kicks off the January media series with award-winning journalist Kirstin Garriss. With a career spanning investigative reporting, national politics coverage and impactful storytelling, Kirstin shares her unique perspective on navigating today’s media landscape and how PR professionals can effectively collaborate with journalists to elevate their stories.

Key Highlights:

• Kirstin’s Journey: Discover how Kirstin’s family and early exposure to journalism inspired her career, and how her experiences in local newsrooms shaped her storytelling approach.

• The Importance of Relationships: Kirstin explains why strong PR and journalist relationships are more critical than ever in today’s fast-paced, resource-constrained news environment.

• Crafting the Perfect Pitch: Learn Kirstin’s actionable tips for PR professionals, including the importance of targeted outreach, compelling visuals and timely follow-ups.

• Diverse Storytelling: Explore how PR professionals can amplify diverse voices, equip spokespeople with media training and highlight personal stories to make pitches more compelling.

• Adapting to a Changing Media Landscape: Kirstin shares her thoughts on the future of journalism, including the role of digital platforms, social media and why local journalism needs our support.

  
  

Join us as Kirstin shares candid insights and practical advice that offer a valuable roadmap for associations and PR professionals navigating an ever-evolving media landscape.

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 next week as we continue our media series with another outstanding guest sharing their expertise and tips for successful PR and media collaborations!

The latest episode of the A100 podcast features Steve Mister, Esq., CAE, President & CEO of the Council for Responsible Nutrition. Having been with CRN for almost 20 years and in the association space for over 30, you won’t want to miss his insights on leading an association and how associations can bring value to their members. 

He talks about CRN’s mantra, “Responsible is our middle name,” and says that is something the association and its members truly try to live out. He highlights how they work with their members to create voluntary guidelines to ensure science-backed consumer safety. As an association you can bring all of your industry leaders together and they can develop a best practice and then everybody agrees to implement it. This isn’t something individual companies can just do on their own and it allows industry to lead the way rather than government regulations.

CRN is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Steve shares their plans to celebrate this huge  milestone and reflects on how the industry and the association has evolved. He also shares best practices for both leading and working in the association world. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas, and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations: 

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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.

In this episode of The Association 100 podcast, Colleen Gallagher, Meghan Henning, and Christine Stay from OnWrd & UpWrd delve into the critical role of professional development within associations. They explore how continuing education not only serves as a top priority for members, but has also become crucial for employee development, recruitment and retention. 

Drawing from various studies, they highlight that a significant percentage of professionals would prefer working for organizations that invest in their education and professional growth.

Key Highlights:

• The necessity of professional development for both member services and employee engagement.

• Insights on how professional development influences recruitment and retention, with statistics showing a strong preference among professionals for organizations that prioritize learning opportunities.

• Personal experiences from the hosts on the varied approaches associations have towards professional development, emphasizing the need for a balanced and strategic approach.

• The importance of leadership buy-in and creating a culture that values learning and growth, ensuring that professional development is seen as a partnership between employer and employee.

• Tips for incorporating professional development into the workplace, including effective onboarding, career pathing and creating a brand culture that attracts and retains top talent.

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on making professional development a cornerstone of your association’s strategy to foster a dynamic and thriving workplace.

Thanks for tuning in to the Association 100 podcast, brought to you by the A100 publishing team at O&U. Don’t miss our insights on association trends and strategies by subscribing on Spotify or visiting our website.

Follow us on LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

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!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our March Leadership Series with Anne Reinke, President & CEO of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA). With a dynamic career spanning government affairs, corporate leadership, and association management, Anne shares her approach to raising industry visibility, building advocacy efforts, and leading through change.

Key Highlights:

The Leadership Transition – Why Anne took the helm at IANA and her vision for its future.

Building Advocacy from the Ground Up – How IANA is strengthening its voice in Washington.

Strategic Growth & Industry Challenges – From freight market shifts to cargo theft, how the intermodal industry is evolving.

Lessons from Corporate & Government Leadership – How Anne’s experiences at CSX Corporation and the Department of Transportation shape her approach to running an association.

The Power of Team Empowerment – Why transparency, trust, and collaboration are the foundation of strong leadership.

🎧 Listen now for valuable leadership insights on navigating change, strengthening advocacy, and driving industry impact.

Stay Connected:

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

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

Coming Soon: Our March Leadership Series continues with more top association CEOs sharing strategies for growth, member engagement, and navigating today’s challenges.

In this episode of The A100 podcast, hosts Keaveny Hewitt and Meghan Henning are joined by guest Gail Kulp, Executive Director of the Sea Tow Foundation. Broadcast live from ASAE, the group discusses the organization's Life Jacket Challenge initiative in addition to tips for operating as a two-person team with limited resources. 

Gail introduces the Life Jacket Challenge, which tests participants’ ability to locate and put on a life jacket in less than 30 seconds. She explains that most boaters refrain from wearing life jackets, often keeping them underneath seats or in lockers. The initiative is intended to simulate real-life, water-based boating emergencies, emphasizing the difficulty of putting a life jacket on in such situations. 

Keaveny draws an analogy between wearing life jackets and fastening seat belts during a car crash, emphasizing the importance of being prepared and taking proactive measures before emergencies happen. 

“Life jackets save lives, but really only if they’re worn.” Gail shares statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard, citing 75% of boating incident victims drowned, and of those drowning victims, a shocking 85% were not wearing a life jacket. She adds that most people only wear a life jacket on board when it’s required.

Hit play now to discover how the Sea Tow Foundation, operating as a two-person team, manages to stay creative and innovative with limited resources.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

This episode of The A100 podcast dives deep into the heart of healthcare in the Bluegrass State. Host Colleen Gallagher interviews Drilon Gojani, Senior Director of Member Services, about the work being done by the Kentucky Primary Care Association (KPCA) to promote access to comprehensive, community-oriented healthcare for underserved populations. 

The two discuss the challenges faced by Kentucky, historically not the healthiest state, and how KPCA is providing essential resources and training to primary care providers. The association supports its members through advocacy work, conferences, webinars, and a newly-developed online community that is accessible 24/7. Drilon highlights how the introduction of the online community has provided members with touchpoints throughout the year, extending beyond in-person conferences.

He speaks about initiatives like the Clinically Integrated Network, which is designed to simplify credentialing and insurance issues for KPCA members. The association also plans to launch a leadership program aimed at developing the next generation of healthcare leaders in Kentucky. 

Tune in to this episode for insights into the challenges, opportunities, and stories behind this fascinating association. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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!

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher speaks with Phil Alongi, President & CEO of Alongi Media, about how associations can raise the bar on event production while keeping costs manageable and embracing sustainability.

Key Highlights:

• Innovative Production Solutions: Phil introduces Alongi Media’s groundbreaking 4K mobile production truck—a fully solar-powered, sustainable control room on wheels—that delivers exceptional quality while cutting setup time and costs.

• The Power of Storytelling: Phil shares how associations can enhance events by prioritizing storytelling and aligning programming with business goals to drive engagement and impact.

• Sustainability as a Differentiator: Learn how Alongi Media’s innovative approach reduces carbon footprints by 85% during production, offering associations a tangible way to meet sustainability goals.

• 2025 Event Trends: Phil discusses the growing demand for in-person experiences, hybrid production value and new technologies that make professional-grade content accessible to associations of all sizes.

  
  

Join us as Phil Alongi provides actionable strategies and insights to help associations produce engaging, cost-effective events that leave a lasting impact.

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 to help your association tell its story, elevate events and deliver value for members!

On the latest episode of the A100, co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning are joined by Jill Cook, CAE, Executive Director and Eric Sparks, Ed.D., CAE, Deputy Executive Director, from the American School Counselor Association to discuss all things member engagement and what they are doing to meet the evolving needs of their members. 

Jill and Eric discuss their use of traditional member engagement methods, such as committees, focus groups, and an annual event–but like all associations–they knew they had to find new ways to keep their members engaged on an ongoing basis. To do this they began providing more resources online and repurposing content from their annual conferences for webinars and other resource materials. And they hold two large virtual events in addition to the annual conference, which increases accessibility, bringing more information to even more members. They talk about how providing these resources in so many ways has really made a difference in terms of member engagement.

They discuss how their newish affinity groups continue to grow by participation and by topic as the issues confronting school counselors grows. The affinity groups allow members to come together on a particular topic they are passionate about and provide professional resources, networking, and best practices.  

Jill and Eric also discuss ASCA’s national model and its contributions to professional advancement, and they share their expectations for what they can offer their membership this year, as well as their goals for the future. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations: 

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Association 100 podcast, where we delve into the essence of association impact and innovation. We are thrilled to host Dr. Alexis McKittrick, the esteemed president of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), during a pivotal time—Engineers Week.

Alexis, with over 20 years of dedication to SWE, shares her insights and the organization's efforts to spotlight women's achievements and opportunities in engineering. This episode comes at a perfect time as Engineers Week is in full swing, celebrating the contributions and potential of women engineers.

Key Highlights:

• Engineers Week Initiatives: Alexis outlines SWE's exciting lineup for Engineers Week, including a CBS's Mission Unstoppable segment and the impactful 50K coalition aiming for 50,000 diverse engineering graduates by 2025. "It's been going for a number of years and just concluded its work," Alexis notes, emphasizing the ongoing need to foster diversity in engineering.

• Challenges Facing Women Engineers: Despite progress, Alexis points to concerning statistics: women earn only about 13% of engineering degrees, with an even smaller percentage for women of color. She also addresses the persistent pay gap and the 'leaky pipeline' phenomenon where mid-career women leave the field at higher rates.

• Technology's Role and SWE's Initiatives: Discussing new technologies, Alexis stresses the importance of diverse perspectives for innovation and highlights SWE's efforts, like the SWENext program and Invent It, Build It event, to engage young women and girls in STEM.

• Public Policy and Engineering: With a background in both engineering and policy, Alexis advocates for engineers' involvement in public policy decision-making, emphasizing their crucial role in data-driven governance.

• SWE's Internal Focus on DEIB: Proudly reflecting on SWE's adaptation during the pandemic and its emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), Alexis shares initiatives aimed at ensuring a sense of belonging within SWE and its broader impact on the engineering community.

• Global Expansion and Future Goals: Alexis celebrates SWE's global growth, with a record number of global ambassadors and affiliates worldwide, as a testament to the organization's commitment to creating gender parity in engineering globally.

Join us in this inspiring episode as we explore how SWE champions women engineers during Engineers Week and beyond, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative future in engineering.

Resources:

Check out SWE’s latest DEIB Report from October of 2023.

Statistics on Employment of Women in Engineering

State of Women in Engineering

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest best practices, trends and strategies making waves in the association world.

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100 

Stay tuned for more episodes that connect you with the leaders and changemakers shaping the association world.

Chrisitine Stay, Marketing Project Manager for OnWrd & UpWrd, joined the A100 podcast to share her insights on what association professionals need to know to improve their event planning. She brings a different perspective than anything we’ve previously discussed around events by highlighting why associations should exhibit at a conference that isn’t their own – and also talks through the planning process.

She shares the three reasons why associations should participate in an expo at a conference: exposure, recruitment and retention. She also provides advice she has for associations when it comes to booth design, leave behinds and deadlines.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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 insightful episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we're honored to have Chris Michaels, CEO of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), join us. With over 34 years of experience in association management, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge in leading strategic initiatives across various operational domains.

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Leadership and Organizational Impact: Chris shares insights into her leadership journey at AAMFT, emphasizing strategic planning, innovative membership benefits and fostering a supportive work culture. Her efforts have significantly enhanced operational effectiveness and staff retention.

• Systemic Ethics Textbook: Explore the development and impact of AAMFT's Systemic Ethics Textbook, a groundbreaking resource aimed at advancing ethical practice across the marriage and family therapy profession globally.

• Expanding Global Reach Smartly: Chris discusses how AAMFT is meeting international needs by providing resources and training when and where they are requested, enhancing the association's global impact without imposing predefined solutions.

• Advocacy Efforts and Achievements: Hear about AAMFT's advocacy victories, including Medicare inclusion for therapists and portability laws facilitating cross-state practice, which are crucial for expanding access to mental health services.

Join host Colleen Gallagher as we delve into how AAMFT is not only advancing the marriage and family therapy profession but also setting standards for association excellence worldwide. Whether you're an association professional or someone interested in the impact of effective leadership, this episode offers valuable lessons on transforming associations into powerful advocates for their members and professions.

Resources:

• Learn more about the Systemic Ethics Textbook and its contributions to the field: https://www.aamft.org/store/detail.aspx?id=EBSET2024 

• Explore the Minority Fellowship Program and its community engagement projects: https://www.humansyst.org/Foundation/What_We_Do/Minority_Fellowship_Program.aspx 

• Discover insights from the Leadership Symposium and its focus on developing association leaders: https://networks.aamft.org/leadershipsymposium/home 

Stay Connected:

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd.

Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into the strategies and insights powering successful associations.

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 episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Alan Sparkman, CAE, LEED AP, CCPf(x3), Executive Director of the Tennessee Concrete Association (TCA), to explore how associations can take bold steps to address workforce challenges. Alan shares TCA’s innovative programs to attract and retain talent while fostering long-term industry growth.

Key Highlights:

• Concrete Workforce Innovation: Learn how TCA’s initiatives like participating in Be Pro Be Proud and leading Concrete Quest and Skate for Concrete are inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in the trades.

• Engaging Current Employees: Alan discusses DriverDash, a gamification platform that boosts employee retention and engagement.

• Influencing the Future Workforce: Discover how TCA’s Concrete Influencers program will empower industry professionals to share their stories and inspire young talent.

• Lessons in Adaptability: Alan emphasizes the importance of experimentation, storytelling and action in tackling workforce shortages.

Join us as Alan Sparkman offers actionable strategies for association professionals working to solve workforce challenges and build vibrant industry 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 innovative strategies and practical insights to help your association lead the way in workforce development!

On the latest episode of The A100 podcast, OnWrd & UpWrd’s Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning welcomed Bill Conerly, an economist specializing in economic trends and writer for Forbes Magazine.  They discuss how trade associations can survive tough times and how seriously they should take the threat of a looming recession. 

A pressing question on every association executive’s mind should be: “can my association survive a recession?” The answer is yes, but it will take some planning. Bill recommends that associations should look back to 2008 and see how they weathered that recession or look at how they performed during the pandemic. What did they do to keep themselves going?  

The discussion turned to whether resiliency gained during COVID will serve associations well when faced with future recessions and what steps associations can take to best handle a recession. Bill advised association executives to adopt proactive risk management strategies. Start with assessing your risk and then make sure you start contingency planning for various scenarios before they actually play out. It’s a lot like crisis communications strategy – it’s always better to plan in advance than in the middle of a crisis. Bill’s main takeaway here is that the companies who fared best during past recessions are the ones who act quickly.

Communicating your value proposition always matters for associations, but reminding your members that during a recession is when they need you most and telling them why will be key to your survival during a recession.

Listen to the full episode to hear more about how you can make sure your association is prepared should a recession hit later this year or next and be sure to check out Bill’s recent Forbes article about the impact of an impending recession on trade associations.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, our March Leadership Series continues with Joanna Pineda, CEO and Chief Troublemaker of Matrix Group. A seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader, Joanna has spent over 25 years helping associations harness digital transformation, enhance member engagement, and drive organizational success. She also hosts the Associations Thrive Podcast, where she interviews top association leaders on what makes organizations truly thrive.

Key Highlights:

• Leading with a Growth Mindset – Joanna shares why she intentionally reinvents her company every 3-4 years to stay relevant and innovative.

• Curiosity as a Leadership Tool – How fostering a culture of curiosity fuels problem-solving, experimentation, and breakthrough ideas at Matrix Group.

• Staying Ahead of the Curve – How Matrix Group is carving out dedicated time for exploration and innovation.

• Member-Centric Digital Transformation – What sets successful association technology initiatives apart and how to ensure products resonate with members.

• What Makes Great Association Leaders – Insights from Joanna’s conversations with CEOs on governance, board relations, and articulating an association’s value proposition.

• Balancing Leadership & Passion Projects – How Joanna integrates personal passions like podcasting and travel into her leadership journey without burning out.

🎧 Listen now for actionable leadership insights on embracing change, driving digital transformation, and building thriving associations.

Stay Connected:

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

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

Fun Resources: Be sure to check out Joanna’s other podcast as well: K Drama Chat, which is all about Korean dramas

Coming Soon: Our March Leadership Series continues with more top association CEOs sharing their strategies for innovation, member engagement, and navigating today’s challenges.

Join us for the latest episode of The A100 as Eduardo Arabu, CEO of The National Hispanic Corporate Council, shares his insights on actionable steps associations can take to be more inclusive and the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. Podcast co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning chat with Eduardo about key strategies for associations when it comes to DEI and driving member engagement among young professionals. 

Eduardo advises associations who haven’t already embedded DEI into the way they operate to look inward first, review best practices and then bring someone on board to coach or guide you on these efforts. The why is clear – statistics show a more diverse workforce drives innovation and gives companies a competitive advantage over other organizations.

Diverse perspectives allow you to see the world differently and from that opportunity is born. Eduardo stresses the importance of being intentional about your DEI efforts – it won’t just happen unless you make a strategic effort to do it right. 

The conversation shifts to growing leaders within your association and Eduardo discusses the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. A lot of organizations have mentorship programs that help individuals mobilize their career, but what isn’t always talked about is sponsorship. “Sponsorship is the individual who is talking about you when you’re not in the room,” says Eduardo.

The three move on to tackle a challenge for so many associations – engaging younger generations. They agree that it comes back to identifying the value proposition through the lens of these young professionals and then being able to tell the story of why they should be a part of this association.

This is a can’t miss episode that is not only packed with actionable insights, but will push you into self-reflection mode when it comes to thinking about how your association operates.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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!

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!

Welcome to another enlightening edition of The Association 100 podcast. In this episode, your hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay, engage in a captivating discussion with Allegra Tasaki, a storyteller, brand evangelist and content strategist. Allegra brings her extensive experience in weaving storytelling into strategic marketing for mission-driven organizations. She also plays a crucial role in ASAE's Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Advisory Group, championing DEIA initiatives.

Today, we delve into how Allegra harnesses technology to amplify her marketing strategies and the importance of crafting resonant messages for diverse stakeholders. We explore her innovative approaches to data-driven storytelling and discuss her advocacy work in promoting leadership diversity within the association community.

Our discussion will explore the intersections of marketing, communications and the power of storytelling in the association and nonprofit sector. Allegra will share insights on leveraging technology for strategic marketing and her approach to engaging diverse stakeholders effectively.

Key Highlights:

1. Innovative Marketing: Allegra discusses how she uses emerging technologies to enhance strategic marketing and drive organizational goals.

2. Engaging Diverse Stakeholders: Strategies for crafting messages that resonate across various groups, including customers, policymakers and the media.

3. Data-Driven Storytelling: How to turn complex data into compelling content that informs and engages.

4. Leadership and DEIA: Insights into her role in ASAE's AANHPI Advisory Group, advocating for leadership opportunities for AANHPI professionals.

Join us as we dive deep into the strategies that Allegra employs to foster meaningful engagement and drive impactful storytelling within the association space.

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 the transformative power of effective storytelling and strategic communication in the association world.

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher speaks with David Jackson, MBA, CAE, Executive Officer of the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET). Dave shares ASPET’s journey in preparing for the open access mandates coming in 2025 and offers actionable insights for associations navigating similar changes.

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Open Access Transitions: Dave explains ASPET’s proactive approach to open access, including the launch of its new journal, ASPET Discovery, and the strategic publishing partnership with Elsevier.

• Supporting Authors: Learn how ASPET is adapting its publishing model to increase accessibility and provide more options for authors, especially those from under-resourced institutions.

• Future Trends: Explore Dave’s vision for the future of scientific publishing, including innovations in peer review, intellectual property considerations and the role of AI.

Join us as Dave Jackson provides a roadmap for associations preparing for the future of scholarly publishing.

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 thrive in a changing landscape!

On the latest episode of the A100, co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Chrstine Stay are joined by Phil Russo, CAE, Executive Director for Professional Management Associates, to discuss all things association and workforce. They dive into both driving the engagement you need from your volunteers and also building and cultivating a high achieving staff.

Drawing on his extensive experience in the association industry since his senior year in college, Phil highlighted the recruitment and engagement of volunteers as one of the most significant challenges facing associations today. He attributed this to both a lack of time and less desire to be as involved as they were before the pandemic. He talks about how to develop systems and processes that almost spoon-feed our volunteers to make things as simple and clear as possible for them with clear expectations around the amount of time involved.

Phils also provides valuable insights on using contractors to complement your staff's expertise and developing strategies for building a high-achieving team within your association.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

On this episode of the A100, OnWrd & UpWrd host Colleen Gallagher talks with Lakisha Barclay, Executive Director & CEO of the Rubber Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS). With over a century of history, the Rubber Division, ACS is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of their membership and the industry. 

Lakisha explains that the Division’s key to success is actively listening to its members and the industry as a whole. By understanding what their community needs and desires, they can develop and provide relevant initiatives and programs. The pair emphasize the importance of creating a sense of belonging and providing opportunities for members to be heard and to build relationships with others in the industry. 

One significant achievement she highlights is the organization’s focus on engaging students. They instituted student-focused initiatives to attract and support students in the industry, resulting in a more than 50% growth in student membership. This includes asking undergraduate and graduate programs to help fund students’ attendance at events like annual conferences, where they can witness first-hand the breadth and nature of the industry. 

During the podcast, they also discuss how the Rubber Division has a technical program that bridges academia with industry professionals. The program allows for collaboration between the two groups, ensuring that “academia can hear from industry on what’s important… so they know where to drive their research.” 

Lakisha also emphasizes the importance of creating networking opportunities that allow members to connect and foster relationships. She recognizes that members want more than just technical sessions; they seek opportunities to connect and need breaks during jam-packed conferences and events. 

Towards the end, Lakisha shares her vision for the future, which includes growing the organization’s women’s program and empowering younger generations to take on leadership roles. Hit play for valuable insights on how to improve your association’s approach to community building and leadership. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Shantel Goodman-Luckett, Chief Experience Officer for the National Association for College Admission Counseling, shares her insights on how associations can empower their members and enhance the overall membership experience.

She discusses how NACAC implemented programs and resources to cater to all types of members, from the next generation of college admissions counselors to counselors that are retiring soon. Shantel shares what it was like to make the transition into this new role, and how she gained perspective after watching her daughter go through the college admission process. She highlighted how important it is for association professionals to speak directly with the membership to truly be able to serve them and understand their needs.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome back to The Association 100 podcast. In this episode, your hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay are joined by Kinsey Fabrizio, President of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). With a career that has blossomed within CTA, Kinsey shares her journey from joining the team in 2008 to leading the organization known for producing CES—the most influential tech event globally.

Key Highlights:

• Career Evolution at CTA: Kinsey recounts her path from the membership team to becoming President, highlighting key projects and leadership roles that shaped her career.

• Mentorship and Career Growth: She emphasizes the importance of seeking mentors and seizing opportunities within the organization to foster career development.

• Strategic Leadership Transition: Discussing the well-planned succession process at CTA, Kinsey gives insight into effective leadership transitions and their significance for organizational stability.

• Navigating Technological Advancements: Kinsey talks about CTA's approach to artificial intelligence, focusing on internal uses for business intelligence and enhancing customer experiences at CES.

• Digital Health Innovations: She elaborates on the impact of CTA's standards in healthcare technologies, including contributions to regulatory frameworks and industry standards that guide consumer tech applications.

• Future Visions and Goals: With an eye on future trends, Kinsey discusses her goals for expanding CES's global presence and adapting to changing media landscapes.

Join us as Kinsey Fabrizio provides a glimpse into the dynamic world of consumer technology and her strategic vision for CTA. Whether you're an association professional or a tech enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable insights into leading and innovating within a tech-centric association.

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 delve into the innovations and strategies shaping the association world.

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!

It’s awards season, and hosts Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning take over the podcast this week to discuss how associations can leverage awards to boost visibility and credibility, plus show member ROI as well! The two bring a well rounded perspective to the awards conversation, with Colleen having judged and created many awards programs and Meghan having written awards applications for a variety of associations.

Colleen and Meghan answer all of your burning questions about awards from what’s out there to apply for to how associations can leverage an award win from a communications perspective.

When it comes to applications: both hosts highlight the importance of being concise, following directions closely and always coming back to your goals. Listeners will finish this episode with all of the knowledge needed to strategically take the awards application process in their own hands.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

On the latest episode of The A100, OnWrd & UpWrd co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Christine Stay talk with Suzanne Bohle, executive vice president for the Council of State Restaurant Associations. Suzanne shares the challenges that state restaurant associations have faced in recent years as the pandemic had a massive impact on the restaurant industry, and talks about how it forced them to become more nimble and innovative. 

She talks about the prominent role government affairs plays in their efforts at the national, state  and local levels, and highlights the power of storytelling when they bring the restaurant operators themselves to meet with legislators. 

CSRA works to make it easier for their state restaurant association members to empower their members to navigate changing consumer preferences, technology advancements and sustainability concerns along with workforce issues. It’s all about bringing members together to share industry best practices. She also talks about CSRA’s focus on professional development and information sharing, as the association offers both virtual and in-person opportunities to meet their members’ needs. 

“At our restaurants and in our industry, you've got from baby boomers to millennials to Gen X to Gen Z. How do they work? What are their work traits? How do you motivate them?” Suzanne shares when talking about one of the ways CSRA provides value for their members through bringing in topical conference speakers. “So what we do is we educate our members. We plant the seeds. A lot of that they'll take back to their members. Some of it's  to educate the associations, but some of this is to educate them so they can educate their members.” 

If you’re looking for advice from an association excelling in providing ROI for its members, even through difficult times, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

On the latest episode of The A100 podcast, OnWrd & UpWrd’s Colleen Gallagher, Meghan Henning and Christine Stay talk about the key strategies for building high-performing teams and cultivating dedicated employees. 

Many associations have job roles in place because that’s the way they’ve always done it. It’s important, however, to regularly reassess what roles your team needs to succeed. 

The three discuss four touch points to ensure you are building high-performing teams: redefining the hiring process, onboarding and professional development, creating a culture of dedication and overcoming challenges to sustain dedication. 

The importance of trust and transparency come up time and again in this week’s conversation and the key to success here is understanding that cultivating a dedicated team is always a work in progress. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Join OnWrd & UpWrd co-hosts Meghan Henning and Keaveny Hewitt as they talk retention, open access to research, and effective engagement strategies with Shannon Reed, Director of Community Engagement at The Electrochemical Society (ECS). The organization plays a critical role in powering the sustainability of the future by publishing foundational research around things like corrosion and lithium ion batteries. 

Shannon discusses their groundbreaking “Free the Science” program initiated in 2014. The program has a simple mission: make published research freely accessible to everyone since having open access to science contributes to the advancement of the field. ECS has fully embraced this, by making all of the research in their highly peer-reviewed journal available for free. He also stresses the importance of developing transformative agreements with their publishing partners to make the research free and accessible. 

“Imagine you are in a library and you’re doing your research and you can only read an abstract. You can’t access an article because the library doesn’t have a subscription to the journal,” Shannon noted. “Especially in underrepresented communities or underrepresented countries- not having to have a subscription allows people to access that content, so that allows for advancement.”  

The group also discusses ECS’ Battery Workforce Development Program, an initiative to prepare students at the master’s or doctoral level with the knowledge and skills of electrochemists. Shannon’s vision for the program goes further, with plans to expand it to community colleges and undergraduate levels, ensuring that a wide range of people can access the education. He envisions partnerships with governmental organizations and industry titans like Ford and Tesla to expand the program. 

Discover the most impactful engagement strategies Shannon has encountered, from tailored membership options for early career professionals to creating more networking opportunities at technical meetings. Don’t miss this chat that explores the power of science, education, and collaboration in driving change. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

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!

Welcome back to another engaging episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, O&U co-hosts, Colleen Gallagher, Meghan Henning and Christine Stay delve into the crucial topics of leadership development and succession planning. This episode is vital for any association aiming to ensure long-term success and sustainability through effective leadership transition strategies.

Key Highlights:

The Importance of Leadership Development: We kick off the discussion by exploring why leadership development is essential for associations. Leadership isn't just about managing current challenges but preparing to thrive in the future. Effective leaders inspire, motivate, and foster innovation, which is crucial for navigating changing environments.

Identifying and Nurturing Future Leaders: Christine discusses various strategies for spotting potential leaders within your association. From talent assessments and leadership training initiatives to creating mentorship opportunities, we cover how to recognize and nurture emerging talent, ensuring a robust pipeline of capable leaders.

The Role of Mentorship in Leadership Development: Meghan elaborates on how associations can cultivate a mentorship culture that supports leadership growth. We talk about the benefits of pairing experienced leaders with emerging talent and how formal and informal mentorship programs can facilitate knowledge transfer and leadership skills.

Smooth Leadership Transitions: Colleen leads the conversation on ensuring seamless leadership transitions. We discuss the importance of effective communication, detailed knowledge transfer and thoughtful succession planning. These elements are crucial for minimizing disruptions and maintaining organizational continuity during leadership changes.

Join us as we provide actionable insights and strategies for fostering a culture of effective leadership within associations. Whether you're currently a leader or looking to step into a leadership role, this episode offers valuable guidance on developing and executing successful leadership development and succession planning initiatives.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts  to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd.

Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into the strategies and insights powering successful associations.

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we are joined by Mike Armstrong, CEO of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). Mike shares NCARB's innovative initiatives aimed at modernizing the architectural licensure process, focusing on inclusivity and technological advancements.

Key Highlights:

Leadership Philosophy: Mike discusses his approach to balancing regulatory rigor with user-centric policies, ensuring licensure protects public health and safety while being accessible and inclusive.

Data-Driven Decisions: Learn how NCARB uses demographic data to identify and address unconscious bias in their examination and licensure processes, leading to concrete steps towards greater inclusivity.

Technological Advancements: Explore how NCARB leverages remote proctoring and AI to streamline licensing exams, enhancing accessibility and efficiency for candidates.

Policy Changes: Mike delves into the significant impact of retiring the restrictive rolling clock policy, making the licensure process more flexible and accommodating diverse career paths.

Future Goals: Discover NCARB's forward-looking initiatives, including redesigning the licensure path and creating a new competency framework to better prepare future architects.

Join us as Mike Armstrong offers valuable insights into how NCARB is leading the charge in transforming licensure processes, providing actionable strategies for association professionals to enhance inclusivity and leverage technology.

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.
  

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we close out our March Leadership Series with Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, CIS, CEO of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE). Annette leads SITE’s 3,100 global members across 90 countries and brings deep expertise in business events, leadership, and community building.

Annette shares how she’s guided SITE through rapid growth post-pandemic, what it takes to lead a global and multigenerational membership, and how associations can stay grounded in their values during turbulent times.

Key Highlights:

Growing with Purpose – How SITE achieved 40% growth by focusing on core strengths and evolving with intention.

Leading a Global Membership – Annette’s approach to expanding brand awareness while respecting cultural and generational differences across 90 countries.

Navigating Disruption – Insights from Annette’s LinkedIn article on moving forward in uncertain times, and how association leaders can balance optimism with realism.

Staying Grounded in Your Values – Why SITE is doubling down on inclusion, community, and leadership development—and how associations can stay true to their missions even amid political or economic headwinds.

Protecting Your Mindset – How leaders can care for themselves and their communities to maintain focus, clarity, and connection.

The Stockdale Principle – Annette’s leadership north star and advice for staying hopeful while facing hard truths head-on.

🎧 Listen now for a candid, energizing conversation on resilience, values-based leadership, and finding calm in the chaos.

Stay Connected:

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

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

Coming Soon: Tune in weekly as we share practical insights, smart strategies, and powerful conversations with association leaders on the challenges—and opportunities—shaping our sector.

The latest episode of The A100 podcast features Lisa Sands of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing alongside show co-hosts, OnWrd & UpWrd’s Colleen Gallagher and Keaveny Hewitt. Broadcast live from the ASAE annual conference, Lisa shared her story of taking a break from the work force and reentering it stronger than ever.  

Feeling burnt out at her job, Lisa decided it was time for a reset. Her initial plan was to take a few months off, but not feeling ready to go back after a few months, she found the months turning into years. Lisa found her age and the gap in her resume made the job search particularly challenging. After eight years in “the hinterlands” she made the move to re-enter the workforce and secured a full-time position. 

Despite the difficulties she encountered, Lisa's career break shaped her into a stronger, more self-reflective individual. She experienced low moments, but her determination to overcome them pushed her forward. She realized that sometimes, to move forward, one must clear the clutter from their mind. Her career break was a mental transformation.

One of the most significant challenges during a career break is maintaining and improving one's skill set. Lisa's approach was to embrace opportunities to learn and grow. While temping, she acquired new skills, including software proficiency, editing, and association management. She also explored various roles at the University of Chicago, which allowed her to diversify her skillset, including contract management and meeting coordination.

Reentering the workforce wasn't without its challenges, particularly for someone who felt like a "bad interviewee." Lisa addressed this issue by focusing on what she truly wanted in a job. She recognized that COVID-19 had created space for job gaps, but she worked on improving her interviewing skills, nonetheless.

Lisa offers invaluable advice to those contemplating a career break. First and foremost, have a plan in place. She acknowledges that not being in the right mental space to create a plan can be challenging. Also, she emphasizes the significance of reaching out to mentors for guidance and support.

Beyond her personal journey, Lisa Sands is also an advocate for change in the healthcare industry. She discusses the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to practice across state borders with ease. This compact has become increasingly crucial, especially for travel nurses and telehealth professionals, in a time when high-quality medical professionals are in high demand.

The Nurse Licensure Compact success is based on education, especially to dispel misconceptions and spread awareness about vital healthcare initiatives. Her involvement in conferences and educational initiatives aims to clear up misunderstandings surrounding the Nurse Licensure Compact, ensuring that these crucial measures are adopted nationwide.

Lisa’s journey from a career break to reentering the workforce offers inspiration to anyone facing similar challenges. Her story serves as a testament to the idea that with the right mindset and support, one can overcome obstacles and come back even stronger.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Join us for the latest episode of The A100 as Jeanne Wolf, CEO at CFA Society Boston, delves into the world of investments and their ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity within the industry. Podcast co-hosts Meghan Henning and Keaveny Hewitt chat with Jeanne about key strategies to foster inclusivity, measuring the success of these campaigns, and collaborating with stakeholders to amplify DEI initiatives.

CFA Society Boston is a community of over 6,000 investment professionals, part of the broader global network of CFA Institute. Their members are primarily investment and asset managers, ranging from those overseeing 401K portfolios to institutional investments and university endowments. The discussion centers around CFA Society Boston’s efforts to promote inclusivity in a predominantly male-dominated industry. 

Jeanne emphasizes that while the field doesn’t fully represent the diversity of our communities, change is underway. They draw inspiration from industries like law, accounting and medicine that have successfully diversified their ranks and associated membership organizations. In terms of assessing the impact and measuring the success of their efforts, the organization uses both qualitative and quantitative metrics. Qualitatively, they assess whether people feel included, and they gauge the representation of diverse leadership at events, board meetings, and the committee level. 

She also touched on the undergraduate Women in Investment Management Internship, a partnership involving the society, its members, and local universities. It has grown substantially over the years, expanding beyond just women to include more diverse participants from underrepresented groups. The program provides a supportive environment for aspiring investment professionals and connects them with peers who share their journey. 

Jeanne discusses how their organization gives back by providing financial literacy to underserved communities. One such example is partnerships with Massachusetts correctional institutions to bring financial education to prisoners. 

Stream this episode to learn more about CFA Society Boston’s journey towards inclusivity, the impact of their initiatives, and how they’re shaping a more diverse and equitable investment profession through partnerships. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In this thought-provoking episode of The A100 Podcast, Colleen Gallagher is joined by Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE, Executive Advisor at Foresight First LLC, for a deep dive into the evolving responsibilities of association boards. Jeff shares his compelling vision for the future, emphasizing the critical importance of foresight, stewardship and ethical decision-making in a rapidly changing world.

Key Highlights:

• The Duty of Foresight: Jeff explores why boards must embrace a future-focused mindset to navigate systemic upheaval, risk and long-standing challenges.

• Stewardship vs. Leadership: Jeff argues that stewardship—leaving organizations better for future generations—is a higher calling than traditional leadership.

• AI Governance and Responsibility: With AI’s growing influence, Jeff underscores the need for boards to lead conversations around ethical and purposeful implementation, ensuring long-term trust and accountability.

• Reimagining Strategy: Jeff challenges boards to move beyond traditional strategic planning, advocating for adaptive approaches that prioritize the needs of successors and stakeholders.

Join us as Jeff inspires association professionals to rethink board roles and responsibilities, offering actionable insights for thriving in an era of transformation.

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 featuring expert insights to help your association navigate change, foster stewardship and build a resilient future!

In the latest episode of The A100 Podcast, we sit down with Carter Alleman, the Director of Government Affairs & Science Policy at the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET). Show co-hosts, OnWrd & UpWrd’s Meghan Henning and Keaveny Hewitt dive into the intersection of advocacy and storytelling with Carter, exploring its profound impact on scientific progress.

ASPET, a renowned association with approximately 6,000 dedicated members, occupies a prominent position in research. Their primary focus centers on unraveling the intricate interactions between drug compounds and the human body. Their work serves as the vital first steps in pioneering treatments and drugs destined for the market, as well as contributing to the development of life-changing medications.

However, despite their pivotal role in healthcare advancements, ASPET continually grapples with a recurring challenge – securing funding for their work. Often heralded as the true incubators of discovery in the United States, they heavily depend on funding from sources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation. Unfortunately, their funding is all too frequently subject to budget cuts during the appropriations process, posing a substantial obstacle to their mission.

As a way to combat that, Carter shares that ASPET actively engages its members in the advocacy process. He acknowledges that scientists may not inherently gravitate toward advocacy, given its perceived political nature. Therefore, ASPET underscores the power of storytelling as a formidable tool in their advocacy efforts. 

Carter talks through one of their initiatives, the Washington Fellows program, which is an innovative program that escorts 10 early-career scientists to Capitol Hill, where they share their research and forge direct connections with policymakers. These personal interactions bridge the gap between science and policy. This program is an integral part of a broader strategy aimed at preparing members to become active participants in shaping policy discussions, rather than passive observers.

ASPET is keenly aware that effective advocacy extends beyond mere congressional testimony; it hinges on active engagement with elected officials who share common interests and concerns.

In an era where science has become increasingly entwined with politics, ASPET acknowledges the inseparable nature of these two realms. While government funding and support are indispensable for scientific progress, they also recognize the necessity of navigating the intricate political landscape while steadfastly remaining committed to their overarching mission of advancing public health.

To gain further insights into the ever-evolving relationship between science, advocacy, and policy, be sure to tune in to this episode of The A100 podcast. 

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Matt Cipriani, Associate Director of Knowledge Management & Member Engagement, American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, shares his insights on how The Great Resignation is impacting associations and how associations can react to it.

He talks about how his background as a research librarian has served him well in the world of associations, how member engagement changed during COVID and what the return to in-person work and events means.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we sit down with Jeanne Metzger, Vice President of Membership, Marketing & Communications at the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals (ACCP). With more than 25 years of experience across multiple associations, Jeanne shares practical strategies for strengthening value propositions, engaging members, and leading communications in today’s shifting environment.

From rethinking DEI messaging to building powerful peer networks, Jeanne offers insight into what’s working now—and what association professionals need to prepare for next.

Key Highlights:

Multi-Hat Leadership – How Jeanne balances membership, marketing, communications, and fundraising—and where she’s focused most quarter by quarter.

The Power of Peer Communities – Why fostering trusted spaces for connection is one of the most valuable services associations can provide today.

Trends in Corporate Social Impact – How companies are adapting language and strategy while staying committed to social good.

Member-Led Recruitment – How ACCP is turning its members into natural ambassadors through referral campaigns and local events.

Engagement Data That Drives Retention – How Jeanne’s team uses integrated tech platforms to identify and re-engage at-risk members.

What Gen Z Expects – Why associations must evolve their user experience and communications approach to meet the needs of younger professionals.

Marketing as Strategy, Not Support – Jeanne’s advice to association leaders: bring comms in at the very beginning—not the end.

🎧 Listen now for smart, actionable strategies to improve membership, elevate communications, and create community in a rapidly changing landscape.

Stay Connected:

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

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

  
  

Coming Soon:Tune in weekly as we share practical insights and powerful conversations on the challenges—and opportunities—shaping the future of associations.

In this episode of The A100 Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Dr. Melissa Pergola, CEO and Executive Director of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) and CEO of the ASRT Foundation. With a rich history and nearly 157,000 members, ASRT stands as the world’s largest organization for radiologic technologists and radiation therapists. Dr. Pergola shares how ASRT honors its legacy while innovating for the future, discussing key strategies in member engagement, workforce development and advocacy for radiologic technologists.

Key Highlights:

• Balancing Tradition and Innovation: Dr. Pergola explains how ASRT maintains a mission-driven, member-focused approach while adapting to industry changes to support its members in a dynamic healthcare landscape.

• Fostering a Culture of Accountability and Creativity: Dr. Pergola emphasizes the importance of empowering staff and creating a safe environment for innovation and learning, encouraging her team to take risks and view setbacks as growth opportunities.

• Advocacy for Professional Recognition: ASRT’s ongoing campaign for reclassification of radiologic technologists highlights its commitment to elevating the profession and ensuring practitioners are recognized for their critical role in healthcare.

• Combating Workforce Shortages: Through strategic collaborations and public awareness campaigns like the “Be Seen” initiative, ASRT is actively addressing workforce shortages and raising the visibility of radiologic professions.

Join us as Dr. Melissa Pergola offers valuable insights into leading a legacy association, advocating for the profession and navigating challenges in the healthcare sector.

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 to drive innovation and impact in your association!

Jeff Joseph, president of SIIA, the Software and Information Industry Association, joins the A100 podcast this week. He shares insights about how associations can take a thoughtful approach to DEI and promote better outcomes by looking at how you can differentiate yourself and provide truly helpful resources for your members rather than something duplicative of what they could already do on their own.

Associations need to ask themselves these questions: How can we make an impact? What’s going to be most valuable to our members? How do you make a business rationale out of this as well?

He also talks about looking inward first and walking the walk as an association as well as welcoming a diversity of viewpoints in the workforce as well so everyone feels comfortable bringing their full self to work.

Check out SIIA's newest member benefit: a brand new microsite dedicated to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): siia.net/dei

Finally, we chat about some policy issues and get to know Jeff better including hearing about his famous (or infamous) Dad band. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome to a pivotal episode of The Association 100 podcast, where we delve into the essence of association impact and innovation. Join us as co-hosts Colleen Gallagher and Meghan Henning embark on a mission to demystify PR services for associations, a topic shrouded in mystery for many.

This discussion is more than just an exploration; it's an invitation to reimagine the potential of your association through strategic PR investment. As leaders in the association space, Colleen and Meghan bring to light the real costs and substantial benefits of investing in PR. This episode aims to shed light on the often-misunderstood realm of PR investment, highlighting why it's critical for elevating your association and the extensive work involved behind the scenes.

Key Highlights:

• The Value of PR: Understanding the strategic positioning PR offers to associations, beyond mere visibility.

• Our Offerings Explained: A breakdown of OnWrd & UpWrd's tailored PR packages - Industry Trade Titan, Momentum Builder, and Go-to-Source, each designed to meet associations where they are on their PR journey.

• Investment Insights: Transparency about the costs associated with quality PR services and the long-term value they provide to associations.

• First 30 and 90 Days: Setting realistic expectations for the initial phases of PR engagement, detailing the sprint of activities that lay the groundwork for success.

As Colleen and Meghan highlight, PR is an investment in your association's future, essential for member recruitment, retention and establishing industry leadership. This episode is a must-listen for association professionals seeking clarity on PR investments and eager to amplify their association's voice effectively.

Stay tuned for more episodes that connect you with the strategies and insights shaping the association world. Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us on LinkedIn for the latest best practices and trends.

Welcome back to The A100 podcast. In this week’s episode, host Colleen Gallagher goes solo to dive deep into the essential world of PR and media relations tailored for associations. She peels back the layers on how to elevate your association's PR and media game to not just amplify your voice but to ensure it echoes through the corridors of your industry and beyond.

Key Highlights:

• Demystifying Media Relations: Colleen breaks down what makes content compelling enough to be considered newsworthy, focusing on timeliness, relevance, significance and uniqueness. This segment is all about crafting messages that not only get attention but also get you the right kind of attention.

• Strategic Press List Management: Learn the art of building a press list that's not just a collection of contacts, but a well-curated network of media relationships. It's about quality over quantity and ensuring your stories reach the right ears.

• Recipe for National Media Coverage: Discover our secret ingredients for securing that coveted national spotlight. From establishing authority and leveraging current trends to the power of persistence, she shares strategies that have propelled associations onto the national stage.

• Nurturing Lasting Media Relationships: Colleen delves into the long-term commitment of maintaining healthy press relationships, emphasizing understanding, value exchange and reliability as key components of a robust media strategy.

In this episode, we're not just sharing tips; we're providing a roadmap to transform your association's approach to PR and media relations. It's about moving from merely participating in the conversation to leading it. So whether you're looking to position your experts as industry leaders or aiming to highlight your association's achievements in a crowded marketplace, this episode is packed with insights to guide you.

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Resources:

Download O&U’s Five Steps to Mastering Earned Media for Your Association eBook today!

Follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd.

Stay tuned for more episodes packed with insights into making your association excel.

In this episode, OnWrd & UpWrd’s summer interns, Keaveny Hewitt and Grant Cragg, take over the A100 podcast to discuss all things internships– what makes good ones, what employers need to know about young professionals and what associations should keep in mind when developing their own internship programs.

Together, they discuss their experience as summer interns, sharing key takeaways, insights and reflections on the internship thus far. They provide perspective on how associations can maximize the potential of their own internship programs by focusing on networking, professional development and variety. Keaveny and Grant take their own experiences into a wider conversation about internships and the next generation of employees so association leaders from all industries can leave with insightful takeaways.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations:

Twitter: @association100 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100

Welcome to another episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we're delighted to host Sharon Pare, Senior Partnership Program Manager at HighRoad Solutions. With a wealth of experience in MarTech and business development within the association space, Sharon brings insightful perspectives on building successful vendor partnerships and driving innovation through technology.

Key Highlights:

• About HighRoad Solutions: Sharon introduces HighRoad Solutions, highlighting its evolution from email marketing to a robust MarTech leader, emphasizing its role in integrating cutting-edge marketing technologies with association management systems.

• Keys to Successful Partnerships: Drawing on her extensive background, Sharon outlines essential elements for fruitful collaborations between tech vendors and associations, such as transparency, alignment and mutual value, ensuring both parties thrive.

• Strategic Partnership Building: Sharon discusses her approach to developing strategic partnerships that enhance both service quality and revenue streams, sharing practical tips for associations looking to leverage technology partnerships effectively.

• Integrating Tech Innovations: Learn how Sharon and her team integrate innovative solutions like HubSpot to both enhance lead generation and also partner with Hubspot to help them better understand the needs of associations, bridging the gaps between the way tech companies and associations think and speak.

Join us as Sharon Pare shares her expertise on leveraging technology to foster growth and innovation in the association sector. Whether you're navigating existing tech partnerships or exploring new ones, this episode is packed with actionable insights to enhance your strategic approach.

Stay Connected:

Subscribe to The Association 100 podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode, and follow us on LinkedIn at The Association 100 and OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.

Keep tuning in for more episodes that delve into the strategies and insights powering successful associations.

Introducing the latest episode of the A100 Podcast with your OnWrd & UpWrd host Meghan Henning. Broadcast live from the ASAE conference in Atlanta this August, Meghan is joined by Sean Luechtefeld, the Vice President of Membership and Communication at ANCOR. 

ANCOR is a community of over 2,100 organizations dedicated to delivering services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, empowering them to live independently. From providing virtual program services to job and employment training, ANCOR’s members operate a wide range of services united by a common goal: community inclusion for people with disabilities. 

In this episode, Sean speaks to how the organization fosters collaboration, engages stakeholders, and tackles challenges faced by the disability services sector. The conversation focuses on ANCOR’s advocacy efforts and how they align with the principles of the Americans with Disabilities Act. They also touch on how to encourage members to use their voice and advocate for important issues.

“How do we identify the right message for the right audience at the right time? But then how do we build the capacity of our members to advance that message?”

Tune in to this insightful episode to learn how to enhance your association’s advocacy efforts and mobilize members of your community.

Subscribe today so you never miss out on future episodes. 

Follow along for best practices, top trends, helpful ideas and smart strategies and tactics that work in the world of associations. 

LinkedIn: /company/the-association-100