Association Transformation

Send us a textWhat if the best leaders aren't born but made?

Send us a textJoin Andrew and Elisa as they preview the Association Transformation Governance & Leadership Executive Retreat, happening September 3-4, 2025 in Berkshire, UK! After five years of collaboration and extensive consultation with association leaders, they're launching this groundbreaking retreat designed specifically for CEOs, executive directors, and board chairs who want to move beyond reactive crisis management to proactive leadership excellence. This isn't your typical executive education – it's a carefully curated experience that embodies their core philosophy that "governance is leadership." With only 20 spots available and multiple Q&A sessions scheduled through summer 2025, this retreat promises to transform how association leaders navigate today's complex challenges. Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring board leader, discover how this collaborative approach to professional development could be the game-changer your organization needs. Don't miss their candid discussion about building something truly special for the association community – and yes, there might be branded merchandise involved!Download the retreat brochure at https://associationtransformation.org/executive-retreat.Ready to register? Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/governance-as-leadership-an-association-transformation-executive-retreat-tickets-1370204341069?aff=ebdsshcopyurl&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=organizer-profile&utm-share-source=organizer-profile. Support the show

Send us a textFresh off the heels of ASAE's 2025 MMC+Tech Conference in Washington, D.C., Elisa is back with stories, insights, and a few spicy takes. From packed-out sessions on member behaviour (shout out to Rachel Mace) to memorable conference elements and delicious macarons. Elisa and Andrew dive into what resonated—and what didn't. Is AI really a hot topic anymore or just the “now normal”? Did we get enough of the original M and M? Elisa shares her first-timer impressions of MMC+Tech, observations on the equalizing effect of standardized vendor spaces, and a discussion of how vendors and consultants are treated in the association space (those colored name badges aren't helping). This episode offers equal parts recap and real talk about showing up, leading, and learning in the association world—especially when straddling the line between insider and outsider.Support the show

Send us a textIn this energizing episode of Association Transformation, we welcome Rachel Mace, Director of Customer Experience at Association Analytics—and just four houses down the street! From her upcoming solo session at ASAE's MMC Conference to her bold take on how associations misuse surveys, Rachel brings a fresh and practical perspective on engaging members through their actions, not just their answers. Discover why “You Asked, We Listened” should be more than a tagline, how community sentiment is your new secret weapon, and why breaking down internal data silos might just save your association. Tune in for insights, laughs, and a serious challenge to the status quo.Support the show

Send us a textIn this candid conversation, hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain challenge the relentless pursuit of new ideas and constant change in association management. They explore how organizations often chase innovative strategies without implementing existing solutions, leading to instability rather than growth. The hosts propose that in today's turbulent environment, associations might benefit more from stability and consolidation than continuous transformation. They advocate for focusing on "the donkey work" - the unglamorous but essential tasks of data management, resource optimization, and purposeful prioritization. The episode offers a refreshing counterpoint to motivational business literature, suggesting that success comes not from new philosophies but from execution, perspective, and the courage to do less and do it exceptionally well.Support the show

Send us a textIt's more than just a month! Elisa and Andrew discuss moving beyond traditional volunteer appreciation to sustainable volunteer management. In this episode of Association Transformation, they explore the unique challenges of membership organizations' reliance on volunteers, introducing a three-part approach: elevating volunteers as experts, celebrating their contributions, and providing meaningful rewards. They critique the "pay to volunteer" mindset while advocating for micro-volunteering opportunities that respect members' time. They emphasize the critical need to professionalize volunteer management by integrating it into organizational strategy, providing proper training for both staff and volunteers, and creating year-round appreciation practices rather than limiting recognition to designated periods like Volunteer Appreciation Month.Support the show

Send us a textWe're taking a break for a couple of weeks but we don't want you to go without your regular AT fix, so we're re-releasing some of our favourites until we return. Next up, we're going right back to Season 2, Episode 32 from May 2021 when Elisa and Andrew discussed the importance of failure and its role in our growth as association leaders.  Support the show

Send us a textWe're taking a break for a couple of weeks but we don't want you to go without your regular AT fix, so we're re-releasing some of our favourites until we return, starting with our milestone 100th episode from May 2024.Join us for a momentous milestone as the Association Transformation podcast reaches its 100th episode! From pivoting to provocative, Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain have been at the forefront of driving the most crucial conversations in the nonprofit and association space. In this special episode, we reflect on what nonprofits truly mean to us, revisit our favorite guests and the most impactful discussions, and share our aspirations for the future. Prepare for an unforgettable journey as Elisa and Andrew take you on a captivating field trip around Washington DC, delving into the heart of the association community. Each week, our hosts have the privilege of engaging with a diverse array of global experts in association leadership, fostering a transatlantic dialogue that propels the impact and evolution of nonprofit organizations. Through in-depth explorations of the issues, topics, challenges, and opportunities facing associations, the Association Transformation podcast has become an indispensable resource for industry professionals. Don't miss this landmark episode as we celebrate 100 episodes of transformative conversations!Support the show

Send us a textWhat happens when the person at the head of the table doesn't feel like they belong there? In this episode of Association Transformation, we welcome back Simon Forrester, Chief Executive of the Cast Metals Federation, for a candid conversation about imposter syndrome at the highest levels of leadership. From “faking it” in boardrooms to building confidence through curiosity, Simon shares real stories, lessons learned, and why vulnerability might just be a leader's greatest strength. Whether you're an association exec, a board member, or just someone who's ever questioned, “Am I good enough for this?”, this episode is for you.Support the show

Send us a textIn this revolutionary episode, host Elisa Pratt uncovers how Nicole Crabtree orchestrates UST's impressive educational ecosystem. Nicole reveals the project management magic behind delivering 200 free events annually, explaining how Asana automation eliminates decision fatigue and maintains consistency. Listeners will learn why panel discussions featuring association professionals create the most engagement, how strategic interaction is "baked in" to virtual formats, and why Wednesday at 1pm yields the highest attendance. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Nicole shares her personal liberation story of rehoming the family ducks—a perfect metaphor for knowing when to scale back and say "no" to preserve quality in both professional and personal life.Support the show

Send us a textWhat does effective, humble and self-aware leadership look like? Join hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain as they welcome Ellen Daniels, CEO of the British Compressed Gases Association and 2025 WiTA Powerlist honoree. Ellen, who became CEO at just 29, shares candid insights on creating a leadership culture built on humility and self-awareness. From making confident decisions under pressure to fostering open feedback, she discusses how authentic leadership transforms organizations. Whether you're navigating difficult personalities, growing your team, or seeking to develop your own leadership style, Ellen offers practical wisdom on balancing confidence with humility. Discover how modern association leadership has evolved and what truly matters when leading today's complex organizations.Support the show

Send us a textStop hiding your AI usage "under the desk" and learn practical implementation strategies that won't sacrifice authentic member connections. Andrew and Elisa are joined by Your Nerdy Best Friend, Beth Z. who shares how to identify your existing AI power users, organize an effective "AI Day" for your team, and navigate the flood of new tools without getting overwhelmed. Whether you're struggling with AI policies or wondering which chatbot features actually deliver value, this Association Transformation conversation cuts through the noise with actionable insights for association professionals. A must-listen for leaders who want to embrace innovation while keeping their members—and mission—at the center of everything they do.Support the show

Send us a textJust released! In Episode 135 of Association Transformation, hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain sit down with Carter Lyons from LeadingAge Virginia for a refreshingly honest conversation about what we're getting wrong in member engagement. More than "40 under 40" lists and special young professional groups, Carter challenges us to see members as individuals first, not by any one demographic they fall into. Drawing from her experience in aging services, she offers a compelling perspective: "There's no magic when you turn 41 that suddenly means you know everything." The trio explores how authentic connections create stronger communities and why passionate members become your best recruitment ambassadors without even trying. This episode will transform how you think about building truly inclusive member experiences by helping the people involved move forward, no matter their career phase, or years of experience.  Support the show

Send us a textIn this candid conversation sparked by a governance-related nightmare, Elisa and Andrew dive into the challenges of board confidentiality and organizational culture. From unpacking the true meaning of the Chatham House rule to exploring why board members might "play nice" in meetings but undermine decisions behind the scenes, this episode offers crucial insights for association leaders. Join them as they discuss the delicate balance between transparency and confidentiality, the importance of creating space for constructive conflict, and how these dynamics impact strategic planning. They also tease their upcoming IMPACT leadership symposium, designed to help association executives and board chairs tackle these complex cultural challenges. Whether you're a board member, executive director, or association professional, this honest discussion about governance culture will resonate with your experiences and offer fresh perspectives on building trust in leadership.Support the show

Send us a textJoin Andrew and Elisa as they explore how associations can harness the power of industry research to drive member value and organizational growth. Analyzing the latest industry reports, they highlight opportunities for associations to differentiate themselves through quality data analytics. The conversation provides practical insights on investing in market research, understanding member needs, and building sustainable revenue streams through thought leadership. Whether you're considering a new research initiative or looking to enhance your existing data strategy, this episode offers valuable perspectives on making research a cornerstone of your association's value proposition in 2025.Here are links to the two specific reports we reference:  GrowthZone 2025 Annual Association Survey ResultsMarketing General Incorporated's (MGI) 2025 Association Outlook ReportSupport the show

Send us a textThis week we welcome back Gordon Glenister, CEO of Membership World, reflecting on the outcomes of their recent AI Hackathon. AI is rapidly evolving, as is its potential for how we maximise its use in association management, and whilst the opportunities are seemingly limitless, there are definitely many lessons to learn from the immersive experience of the Hackathon, including the comparative performance of the various tools, their varying levels of maturity, the increasing significance of high-quality prompting, and the benefits of standardising the use of AI within teams. As you explore AI tools, listen to our latest episode and join us as we seek to advance AI in associations.  Support the show

Send us a textIn this engaging episode, Elisa is joined by guest co-host Kevin Couling, who returns to the pod to give us his insider's perspective on climate action and what it means for associations. He breaks down the recent COP29 climate conference, highlighting practical ways associations can take meaningful action regardless of global politics. Kevin offers valuable insights on how organizations can approach climate change as a business risk rather than a political issue and shares actionable steps for association leaders who want to become more climate-literate. Whether your members are ahead of or behind on climate initiatives, this episode provides clear guidance on how associations can create safe spaces for collaboration and drive positive change. Don't miss this accessible conversation that demystifies climate action for association professionals.Support the show

Send us a textElisa welcomes Membership Bespoke co-founders Dennis Howes and Daniel Goddard for the 130th episode Association Transformation. Dive into the critical world of talent acquisition for membership organizations. From transforming hiring timelines to navigating post-pandemic workplace expectations, discover how modern recruitment practices are evolving to meet the unique needs of associations. Whether you're an association leader planning your next hire or a professional eyeing a career in the membership sector, this episode offers invaluable insights on finding and retaining the right talent to drive your mission forward.Support the show

Send us a textWhen does diplomatic leadership cross the line into artificial harmony? In this compelling episode, Andrew and Elisa explore the delicate balance between candor and courtesy in association leadership. From board-executive relationships to organizational transformation, they unpack why honest conversations have become increasingly difficult and how to break through the culture of artificial agreement. Drawing from their extensive experience, they offer insights on leading with integrity while navigating complex organizational politics. Essential listening for association executives and board members who want to foster authentic, mission-driven leadership conversations.Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode of Association Transformation, hosts Elisa Pratt (CEO, Brewer Pratt Solutions) and Andrew Chamberlain (Managing Director, Elevated) welcome Dr. Marc Reid, author of "You Are Not a Fraud," to reframe imposter syndrome as "imposter phenomenon" - a natural response to growth rather than a psychological ailment. Particularly relevant for association executives leading industries outside their expertise, this conversation explores transforming self-doubt from paralyzing to motivating. Dr. Reid shares practical tools like the "CV of Failures" exercise while discussing why 20% of professionals keep these feelings hidden. Whether you're a board member, staff leader, or consultant, dive into fresh perspectives on authentic leadership with three engaging international voices in association management.Support the show

Send us a textJoin us for Association Transformation's year-end review as we reflect on the challenges and victories across the association sector in 2024. From managing hybrid work realities to governance as leadership, we explore what made the previous 12 months both exhausting and enlightening. Looking ahead to 2025, we discuss key focus areas, including trust and expertise in membership organizations, systems thinking for holistic member experiences, governance as leadership development, and managing expectations in an increasingly demanding environment. Thank you for being part of our journey this year. We're taking a short break and will return on January 6th, 2025, ready to tackle new challenges and opportunities in the association sector.Support the show

Send us a textGet ready for a paradigm shift in change management! Join Andrew, Elisa, and special guest Michael Randel as they unpack the surprising gift of resistance and its crucial role in organizational transformation. Discover how embracing resistance can lead to more effective leadership, stronger stakeholder engagement, and ultimately, more successful change initiatives in this must-listen episode of Association Transformation.Support the show

Send us a textAfter returning from a transformative week in Manila, concluding the inaugural Certificate in Association Governance program, hosts Elisa and Andrew reflect on the universal challenges and opportunities in nonprofit governance. Fresh from their experiences teaching association professionals in the Philippines, they explore why mastering governance is the crucial first step in tackling broader ESG initiatives. They share insights from their international cohort of learners and discuss plans to expand the certification program globally in 2025. This engaging conversation demonstrates how effective governance transcends borders and serves as the foundation for organizational leadership, while providing a glimpse into the future of association management education.Support the show

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Send us a textIn Episode 123 of the Association Transformation podcast, we explore the power of constructive conflict. Of course, not all conflict is created equal: Learn about task-driven, destructive, and process-driven conflicts. Turns out trust just might be the foundation that turns disagreement into innovation. Yes we disagree, yes we argue, but Andrew and Elisa master the trinity of conflict management: self-awareness, emotional discipline, and open communication. We recap our recent workshop, helping participants discover they weren't alone in these challenges - and neither are you! Ready to transform your team's approach to conflict? It's as easy as [episode] 123!Support the show

Send us a textJoin Andrew and Elisa as they dive deep into the realities of association engagement with Nikki Walker, Global VP at MCI Group, unpacking the revealing insights from the 2024 Association Engagement Index (and some 2022 comparisons). Discover why younger members are less likely to advocate for associations, learn strategies to personalize member experiences and explore the innovative 'engagement loop' that could revolutionize how organizations interact with their communities. Don't miss this essential conversation that challenges traditional approaches and offers practical solutions for associations looking to thrive in an evolving landscape.Support the show

Send us a textOn this week's episode we welcome Gordon Glenister, Founder and CEO of Membership World, to discuss the groundbreaking AI hackathon set for January 2025. Learn how AI is revolutionizing membership engagement, recruitment, and growth, and why practical, hands-on learning is crucial in this rapidly evolving landscape. Gordon shares his vision for an interactive event where association professionals can experiment with AI tools, tackle real-world challenges, and learn from each other. Whether you're an AI novice or an early adopter, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the transformative power of artificial intelligence in your association. Tune in now and join the conversation that's shaping the future of membership organizations! Register for the AI Hackathon at https://membership-world.idloom.events/ADVANCE-AI-a-Membership-World-hackathonSupport the show

Send us a textIt's that time of year again, when things go bump in the night! Elisa and Andrew once again tell their Halloween horror stories and reflect on the chilling tales of terror that have haunted them since last All Hallows Eve.

Send us a textIt was International Podcast Day on September 30, and association podcasters from around the globe have come together for an epic mashup! Get ready for a fun, insightful, and slightly chaotic episode where top association podcast hosts share their stories, tips, and a few behind-the-scenes bloopers. Whether you're already a podcast enthusiast or thinking about starting a podcast for your association, this episode has everything—from inspiration and tech tips to future trends and hilarious bloopers. Listen in for an engaging chat, unexpected moments, and some expert advice on making your association podcast stand out. Support the show

Send us a textJoin us for an energizing conversation with TEDx speaker and social media guru Robin (@robbinmarx) Nathaniel on the latest episode of Association Transformation! Robin shares game-changing insights on leveraging social media for nonprofit fundraising, emphasizing the power of storytelling over constant solicitation. Learn how to create donor avatars, choose the right platforms, and even dip your toes into AI-assisted content creation. Whether you're a social media novice or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers practical steps to amplify your nonprofit's mission and connect with supporters in meaningful ways. Don't miss Robin's infectious enthusiasm and actionable advice for transforming your social media approach!Support the show

Send us a textElisa and Andrew sit down with renowned reputation management expert Anthony Huey, CEO and Founder of Reputation Management and Communicate Clearly. Learn about the critical importance of verbal communication in the age of AI, the art of building trust, and why being intentional in every interaction - whether face-to-face or virtual - can set you apart in today's fast-paced world. They explore the changing landscape of effective communication, managing crises, and enhancing everyday conversations. Anthony shares insights on how organizations can navigate the evolving digital environment while maintaining authentic connections with members, clients, and colleagues. Tune in now and discover how to strengthen your communication strategy!Support the show

Send us a textAndrew and Elisa take you along for a ride through their lively journey to Richmond for the Virginia Society of Association Executives (VSAE) Fall Summit. In this episode, they share insights from their sessions on strategic planning and partnership development, revealing surprising revelations about board practices and the diverse interpretations of partnerships in the association world. With a blend of humor, expertise, and candid observations, our hosts offer a behind-the-scenes look at the conference, from networking adventures to culinary discoveries. Whether you're an association professional or simply curious about the inner workings of these organizations, this episode promises valuable takeaways and entertaining banter that will leave you both informed and amused.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of Association Transformation, Elisa and Andrew are joined by longtime association expert Matty Rubenstein to challenge the traditional “three pillars” model that has long-defined associations—community, knowledge, and convening. Together, they explore how associations can break free from these silos and create direct, measurable impact in today's rapidly evolving landscape. From shifting organizational mindsets to exploring innovative solutions, this conversation is a forward-thinking look at the future potential of associations. Tune in for fresh insights and actionable ideas that push beyond the conventional approach!Support the show

Send us a textAndrew and Elisa unpack their latest white paper, 'The Association Ecosystem: A Systems Perspective on Organizational Effectiveness.' This engaging episode explores systems thinking in association management, examining its real-world applications, potential hurdles, and how it can reshape strategic planning. Discover the process of mapping your organization's system, the necessary cultural shift, and why viewing your association as an interconnected ecosystem could unlock greater impact and resource efficiency. From seasoned CEOs to those new to systems thinking, this conversation offers valuable insights on transforming association leadership. Tune in to reimagine your organization's future and learn how a systems approach could revolutionize your management style.Support the show

Join hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain as they welcome Richard Lambert, Senior Consultant for Pragmatix Advisory, to dive deep into the intricacies of the UK's political environment. With a significant majority in Parliament for the new Government, Richard shares invaluable insights on how associations can effectively lobby and influence policy. From cultivating relationships with civil servants to leveraging member expertise, this episode offers a masterclass in political engagement for trade associations. Whether you're a seasoned lobbyist or new to government affairs, you'll gain practical strategies to amplify your industry's voice in the corridors of power.Support the show

No one seems to talk honestly about succession. So Andrew and Elisa will. This week they dive deep into the often-neglected world of board succession planning. Brace yourself for a no-holds-barred discussion as these governance gurus challenge common misconceptions and offer practical insights. From debunking the "warm body" effect to exploring the selfish motivations behind volunteering, Andrew and Elisa leave no stone unturned. They tackle thorny issues like term limits, the role of nominating committees, and the delicate balance between experience and fresh perspectives. Whether you're a seasoned board member or an association executive, this episode is your roadmap to building a robust leadership pipeline and ensuring your organization's future success. Don't miss this chance to transform your approach to board succession – your association's future depends on it!Support the Show.

We welcome special guest Chris Huizenga, Director of Professional Development at the Chicago Association of Realtors and co-founder of Desklight. Building on the findings of our microlearning whitepaper, Chris challenges traditional notions of educational offerings and shares innovative strategies for creating member value. Learn why education should be at the core of your association's mission, how to compete in a crowded market, and why failure might be your best teacher. From rethinking curriculum design to leveraging technology, this episode offers practical insights for associations looking to transform their educational programs. Don't miss this chance to reimagine professional development and position your association for success in 2025 and beyond.Support the Show.

Join Elisa and Andrew for the 111th episode of Association Transformation as they welcome podcasting guru Mike McAllen, founder of Podcasting4Associations. Discover how podcasts can revolutionize member engagement, provide value, and become a powerful tool for your association. From content strategies to production tips, Mike shares invaluable insights gained from years of experience in the industry. Whether you're considering starting a podcast or looking to improve your existing one, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for associations of all sizes. Tune in to learn how you can harness the intimate medium of podcasting to connect with your members and become the voice of your industry.Support the Show.

Join Elisa and Andrew as they tackle the challenging topic of difficult conversations in the association space. This candid discussion explores why people avoid tough talks, how to approach them constructively, and the importance of data-driven communication. Whether you're dealing with board evaluations, staff issues, or member concerns, our hosts offer practical insights on maintaining professionalism, ensuring psychological safety, and fostering a culture of open dialogue. Don't miss this valuable episode that will help you transform challenging interactions into opportunities for growth and improvement in your association.Support the Show.

Join hosts Elisa and Andrew as they dive into the world of association globalization with guest expert Sylvia Gonner from CultureWiz. In this eye-opening episode, Sylvia shares invaluable insights from ASAE's new Going Global Toolkit, discussing how associations can strategically expand their global reach. Learn about the five A's test for global appeal, the importance of developing a global mindset, and practical tips for overcoming cultural and logistical challenges. Whether you're considering international expansion or looking to refine your existing global strategy, this episode offers essential guidance for association leaders navigating the complexities of the global marketplace.Support the Show.

Join Andrew and Elisa as they dive into the evolving landscape of association events with expert guest Katherina Breen of Breen Consulting. In this eye-opening episode, discover how associations can leverage their unique advantages to drive event innovation and revenue growth. Katrina shares invaluable insights on balancing member value with commercial opportunities, managing risk in event portfolios, and adapting to post-pandemic realities. Learn why associations are perfectly positioned to excel in the events space and how to stay ahead of for-profit competitors. Get practical tips for analyzing your current event portfolio and aligning events with your association's overall strategy. Whether you're looking to optimize current events or explore new frontiers, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for association leaders ready to transform their event business model.Support the Show.

Join Elisa and Andrew as they sit down with Octavio 'Bobby' Peralta of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives (PCAAE) to discuss an exciting new opportunity for association leaders. In order to demystify and bring to fruition a new global vision for association governance, they unveil the Certificate in Association Governance program. This new 4-month online course designed to enhance the skills of board members, trustees, chief executives, and staff in associations and nonprofits will launch in September. This episode of Association Transformation details Bobby's background and passion for nonprofits and previews the program, which aims to professionalize association governance in the Philippines and beyond. Listen as they explore the course structure, its potential impact on the sector, and how it complements PCAAE's existing educational offerings. Whether you're a seasoned association professional or new to the field, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of #associationleadership and governance.View the Course Guide. Support the Show.

Listen to our new and thought-provoking episode of Association Transformation as we challenge conventional wisdom and explore the critical role of foresight in association leadership. Elisa and Andrew sit down with Jeff De Cagna, Executive Advisor at Foresight First LLC, to discuss the evolving concept of the board's duty of foresight. Discover why "future-proofing" is a myth and learn how to cultivate fit-for-purpose boards that can navigate uncertainty with confidence. Jeff shares insights from his decades of experience, challenging us to move beyond the distracting pursuit of "relevance" and instead focus on ethical, anticipatory leadership that serves future generations. Whether you're a seasoned board member or an association executive, this episode offers fresh perspectives on steering your organization through the complexities of our rapidly changing world. Tune in for a compelling conversation that will reshape how you think about governance and organizational resilience.Support the Show.

Join us for a candid conversation on the Association Transformation podcast as we tackle the often overused yet critical topics of wellness, burnout, and organizational culture in the association space. Co-hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain sit down with executive leadership coach Derek Mulhern to explore practical strategies for creating a culture of wellness and high performance. Learn how to move beyond generic values statements, foster genuine communication, and implement actionable steps to support your team and board members. Whether you're a seasoned association executive or new to leadership, this episode offers fresh insights on nurturing a thriving organizational culture in today's challenging landscape. Tune in for honest dialogue and applicable advice on transforming your association from the inside out.Support the Show.

Dive into the “new now” of learning with Elisa and Andrew as they unveil a new groundbreaking Association Transformation white paper, "Bite-sized, Big Impact: How Microlearning is Reshaping Education." Discover why microlearning isn't just a trend but a science-backed approach revolutionizing how associations deliver value. We explore the neuroscience behind knowledge retention, address the modern learner's challenges, and discuss implementing microlearning beyond digital platforms. This episode is packed with insights on diversifying revenue, enhancing member engagement, and staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of professional development. Whether you're an association leader, education professional, or curious about the evolving future of learning, this conversation will reshape your perspective on education strategy. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that proves microlearning is more than just bite-sized content – it's a transformative force in association education.Support the Show.

In the latest episode of the Association Transformation Andrew and Elisa sit down with the renowned Mervyn Pilley, Co-Founder of the Society of Association Management (SAM). Mervyn shares SAM's mission and a new approach to promoting, protecting, and evangelizing the current and next generation of membership management professionals in their career development. With a rich history dating back to the 1930s, the modern-day SAM aims to fill the gap left by its predecessors by providing a strong career path, especially in smaller, more niche membership organizations. We talk member engagement, credentialing and nonprofit professional development. Associations of all types can learn from the re-emergence of SAM. Our in-depth conversation provides a reintroduction to SAM's vision of support the next generation of membership professionals.Support the Show.

Is there rhyme or reason, maybe even strategy behind where you choose to book your association's major events. Join Elisa and Andrew as they delve into new research from conference match-maker Conferli. Special guest Bregje Frens, Conferli Co-Founder and CCO, explains the future of the RFP process for associations. Drawing on insights from recent research involving associations worldwide, this episode of lets us dive into how technology, automation, and a partnership approach can revolutionize the way nonprofits select destinations and venues for their conferences. Discover the key challenges with the current RFP model and explore innovative ideas to make the process more efficient, strategic, and tailored to the unique needs of associations. If you're involved in conference planning for an association, you won't want to miss this thought-provoking discussion!Download Conferli's white paper "Shaping Tomorrow's RFP".Listen to Conferli's podcast on Spotify. Support the Show.

Not everyone is cut out for it! It's the top job for a reason! It's supposed to be hard! Let's get real and talk about the good, bad, and unspoken realities of the Chief Executive position! Join Elisa and @Andrew for this insightful episode of Association Transformation as we delve into the complex world of applying, interviewing, onboarding, and succeeding as a CEO in this new era. Drawing from personal anecdotes and years of consulting experience, we explore the challenges faced by first-time and seasoned CEOs alike as they navigate their transitions. From the importance of asking the right questions during the interview process to the critical need for listening and building relationships, this episode sheds light on the often-isolating nature of the top job. We discuss the evolving skill sets required of association executives, uncovering organizational skeletons, managing expectations, and the value of seeking support from peers and mentors. Whether you're an aspiring CEO or a current executive looking for guidance, this episode offers valuable insights and practical, actionable advice for succeeding in the demanding role of association leadership.Support the Show.

Join us for a momentous milestone as the Association Transformation podcast reaches its 100th episode! From pivoting to provocative,@Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain have been at the forefront of driving the most crucial conversations in the nonprofit and association space. In this special episode, we reflect on what nonprofits truly mean to us, revisit our favorite guests and the most impactful discussions, and share our aspirations for the future. Prepare for an unforgettable journey as Elisa and Andrew take you on a captivating field trip around Washington DC, delving into the heart of the association community. Each week, our hosts have the privilege of engaging with a diverse array of global experts in association leadership, fostering a transatlantic dialogue that propels the impact and evolution of nonprofit organizations. Through in-depth explorations of the issues, topics, challenges, and opportunities facing associations, the Association Transformation podcast has become an indispensable resource for industry professionals. Don't miss this landmark episode as we celebrate 100 episodes of transformative conversations!Support the Show.

Welcome to Episode 99! Once again we're talking about the Climate Crisis and this week are joined by Kev Couling, MD of sustainability specialists Hut22 Ltd to further explore the role of associations in tackling the climate emergency. As associations continue to come to terms with and embrace their opportunities to address the climate emergency, we look at some of the pragmatic ways in which they can take proactive climate action, both as corporate entities and as the conduits for members to access the tools and resources they need to fulfil their climate obligations. Kev has made available the following free carbon management tools for associations and their members:Gap Analysis Tool: subscribepage.io/Fh42eECarbon Management Governance Hackbook: subscribepage.io/lIxvc6Support the Show.

DFWAE's Association Day is the society's flagship education and networking event and this year Andrew had the privilege of delivering a session on effective strategic planning. As always, Association Day contained an exceptional roster of speakers and delivered an education program that reflects the rich diversity of issues on which associations lead. Join Andrew, Vicki Reece (Professional Insurance Agents Texas) and Kevin Korenthal (National Association of Park Foundations) as they reflect on the day's learnings, including the necessity of data-informed associations, the developing role of AI, and culture change that drives performance and impact. Support the Show.