A transatlantic conversation advancing the impact and evolution of non-profit organizations. Together with our special guests, each episode we take a deep dive into the issues, topics, challenges and opportunities facing the association community.
Embrace the spirit of April Fool's Day in this 96th episode of Association Transformation. Hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain playfully explore the little white lies and falsehoods we tell ourselves as association professionals. From blaming governance structures to touting inflated retention rates, they dissect common self-deceptions that hinder progress. With humor and insight, they delve into the dangers of optimism bias, the illusion of member engagement, and the denial of staff burnout. Get ready for an honest, thought-provoking discussion that challenges you to confront the fibs holding your nonprofit organization back. Tune in for a dose of truth amid the pranks!
Join Elisa as she welcomes Olena Lima, Founder of MemberBoat to the Association Transformation family to discuss the ever-evolving digital engagement dance. We debunked the myth of email's demise, explore innovative ideas for global #memberengagement, highlight methods to tailor content for multigenerational audiences, and emphasize the importance of aligning marketing and membership teams to ensure a seamless member experience. Check out episode 95 for actionable insights to elevate your association's digital engagement strategies.
You know we love alliterations, but not as much as we love the intricacies of the volunteer-staff partnership within associations. Elisa and Andrew dive in with Amy Biedenharn, Director of Client Experience with Innovatis Group, to discuss the dynamics, challenges, and strategies involved in fostering a positive and productive collaboration. This sometimes complex relationship between member-leaders and paid staff can have a great impact and can also present poisonous pitfalls (sorry, we’ll stop). Drawing from diverse experiences, we explore the significance of setting clear expectations, establishing boundaries, and providing training for both volunteers and staff, and we emphasize the ongoing commitment required to navigate and nurture this essential aspect of association management.
Rejoin hosts Andrew and Elisa for an insightful follow-up with Allison Marrero, Chief Brand Experience Officer at the American Society of Interior Designers, one year after overhauling their membership and engagement operations. Allison brings to Association Transformation her reflections on changes like revamped and expanded member categories, getting components onboard, and the pace of nonprofit decision-making. We go beyond the surface and explore the need to continually communicate ongoing transformations, and how to navigate change overall. Whether you work in associations, branding, change management, or another domain, don’t miss this candid insider perspective on facilitating a significant yet thoughtful evolution.
Strategy is in no way exclusive to any one industry, organization, or tax status; in fact, it originates in the planning of warfare. So what can associations learn from military strategy? Elisa picks the brain of the amazing Robert Plante, US Army Special Forces Officer, former BrewerPrattSolutions intern, and now Director of Transformation and Restructuring at the Swaney Group. Bo shares the seven steps to military decision-making with us and reminds us to embrace agility because “no plan survives first contact with the enemy.” We also learn the definition of “ground truth” and how to apply the pareto principle to association strategy. We're ready for battle – a strategic battle! More on applying military strategy: https://www.army.mil/article/248339/a... More on the Pareto Principle: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/...
Association Transformation kicks off the new year with a commitment to action! Join Andrew and Elisa as they welcome Jay Daughtry of Fonteva Protect to plead with associations to adapt and engage with their younger members differently than their core group. We chat breaking down silos and creating a sincere and inclusive environment. In 2024 just do one thing: listen to your members, shorten communication channels, and explore new technologies to connect with new demographics effectively. The group also touches on the significance of supporting industries and professions in workforce development and talent acquisition (engaging the next generation isn’t just about membership).