6 Degrees of Associations: Presented by Core Adventures

The Six Degrees of Associations Podcast is honored to host a timely discussion on the art of marketing, communications, and advertising in the world of associations and beyond this week, featuring our guest American Marketing Association (AMA) CEO Bennie F. Johnson. As marketing continues to change at a rapid pace, certain enduring qualities have never been more important. As we learn in today’s chat, returning to the fundamentals of marketing is crucially important as the proliferation of A.I. in our field continues to grow. AI tools can enhance efficiency, provide insights, and automate tasks, but they do not replace the need for core marketing strategies. Bennie joins our show to discuss his organization’s ongoing efforts to keep marketers nationwide updated, connected, and educated on the latest trends and drastic changes in audience engagement that seem to happen at the drop of a hat. Founded in 1937, the AMA is the world's largest community-based marketing association. According to their official mission, the AMA strives to be the most relevant force and voice shaping marketing around the world, serving as an essential community for marketers. Learn More: https://www.ama.org/ About This Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Associations are complex by nature. This week on our Six Degrees of Associations Podcast, we are joined by David Gammel, who provides insight into how his prolific consulting experience has helped him become an effective executive while navigating the many layers of an association. David currently serves as the Executive Director of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. His journey into associations began unexpectedly after moving to Washington, D.C. After several years as a consultant, he transitioned back to association leadership, bringing with him a deep understanding of strategic alignment and execution. His consulting background taught him to diagnose issues quickly, understand organizational dynamics, and work effectively with stakeholders. This experience helps him navigate the complexities of association management, ensuring that different perspectives align towards common goals. In this interview, David also shares insights on effectively working with consultants, and the importance of storytelling and communication in leadership roles. According to David, even budgets can be seen as narratives that need to be communicated effectively to various stakeholders such as board members, staff, and the general membership. About this Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

In this week’s episode of the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast, we’re talking with KiKi L'Italien, the Vice President of Marketing & Community Engagement with Big Red M and Editor-in-Chief of Association Chat. She is an accomplished community builder and speaker on the topics of technology, community, and trust. Much of today’s discussion explores the metaphor of associations being like a 'small town' and emphasizes the necessity of trust as the core component of working directly within an association or serving it as a vendor. She is a passionate advocate for advancing the association community as a whole, with a track record of innovation and pushing boundaries through her work with Association Chat and beyond. With anecdotes and insights on today’s chat, she discusses the love-hate relationship many folks working for associations possesses, while highlighting the immense potential and responsibility they hold. From the evolution of Association Chat from a tweet chat to a multimedia platform, KiKi delves into its role as a community hub. Other topics explored at length within today’s interview include: The future of Association Chat and how it serves folks working in associations. What vendors need to understand about associations if they want to service this industry successfully. The challenges of technology adoption in associations. Learn More: https://associationchat.com/ About this Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

We are joined by Cheretta A. Clerkley MBA, CASE, CME, Executive Director of Association for Positive Behavior Support (APBS) on this week’s edition of the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast. Cheretta leads us in an insightful conversation about her journey through the world of associations and the transformative power of effective communication and strategic planning. From her early career in local government to her role as an executive director, she shares her experiences navigating the complex landscape of associations and discusses her transition from marketing and communications roles to leadership, highlighting the pivotal moments and mentors that shaped her career path. One of the key themes of the discussion is the importance of finding one's voice and using it to drive change. Cheretta also explores the challenges of change management and the value of storytelling in crafting compelling stories to lead organizational growth. Through her passion for communication, strategic planning, and mentorship, Cheretta embodies the spirit of leadership and innovation in the association space and beyond. About this Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Celia Chomón Zamora, PhD, CAE, Director of Professional Learning and Certification at ACTFL, is our guest on this week’s episode of the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast. In addition to her CAE certification, she is a DELP Scholar. She earned her doctorate in Spanish Applied Linguistics from Georgetown University. She is a dedicated lifelong learner, educator, and advocate of languages and language education. Dr. Zamora joins our show to share her journey from a competitive high schooler to a passionate advocate for language education. With a background in linguistics and a dedication to lifelong learning, she found her calling in associations, driven by a desire to empower others. Embracing a leadership style rooted in empathy, transparency, and a growth mindset, she mentors young leaders, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Through her inspiring story, she emphasizes the importance of communication and authenticity in leadership, shaping a future where everyone has equitable access to language education. About this Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Our guest this week on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast is Stacie East, Esq., CAE. Stacie is the Director of Equity and Grants at the Entomological Society of America (ESA). Equipped with an Ivy League Law Degree and years of grit from running a business, Stacie knew she had to dig deep and find even more ways to gain the valuable education she’d need to find success as an association executive. This learning journey involved training for the Certified Association Executive (CAE) certification program and participation as a scholar in the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP). Additionally, it required formal mentorships and networking. As we learn in this interview, it takes an all-hands-on-deck approach of continuous learning, networking, relationship building, and training to find success as an association and mission-driven Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) executive. With a lifelong commitment to mission-driven organizations, she is a strategist, attorney, DEI expert, and fundraiser. Stacie is a shining example of someone who refuses to rest on her laurels and experience; she brings an entrepreneurial mindset and an innovative curiosity to the association world while championing DEI initiatives with fervor, energy, and enthusiasm. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

We visit with Ally Brown, MS, joins us to share her inspiring story in the latest episode of the 6 Degrees of Association Podcast. Ally is the Vice President of Learning and Director of Training with Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM). Through a candid conversation, she reflects on her unexpected path, challenges faced, and the pivotal role of support networks like the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP) program from ASAE. Other themes explored throughout today’s episode, include: Overcoming imposter syndrome while being named to the prestigious Association Forum “Forty Under 40” list. How to lean into authenticity in association leadership by simply being yourself. Ally's story is one of resilience and determination. From starting her career in clinical settings to finding her passion in association education, she navigated through uncertainties and setbacks with unwavering resolve. Along the way, she discovered the power of authenticity, realizing that being true to oneself is key to success. Ally's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of women in association leadership. While there are still barriers to overcome, she remains optimistic about the progress being made. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

This week, Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE, of Foresight First, LLC, joins the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast to discuss what it takes to support the operation of associations and non-profit boards through a commitment to foresight. Jeff emphasizes the critical importance of foresight, strategic planning, and adaptability for boards to thrive in an ever-changing environment. He advocates for a proactive approach to leadership, urging boards to anticipate and embrace change rather than reactively respond to it. Jeff has been working in the association world for over three decades, including experience as association staff. Most recently, with Foresight First, LLC, he has been advising associations and non-profit boards on how they can set a higher standard of stewardship, governance, and foresight [SGF].You may contact Jeff directly by sending him an email here: jeff@foresightfirst.io . About this Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Volunteers are not an unlimited resource, and relationships with volunteers must be managed with the precision of a world-class conductor leading an orchestra. Amanda Parsons, CAE, the Executive Director of the Oregon Recreation and Park Association, is our guest this week on 6 Degrees of Associations, offering a masterclass for our listeners on volunteer management. As we learn from Amanda, if you’re not regularly celebrating your volunteers in ways they love, you are at risk of losing some of your best advocates—the most enthusiastic and energizing forces behind your organization. While it may sound counterintuitive to a successful nonprofit, creating 'term limits' and cycling off volunteers is also key to keeping things fresh. With experience in digital marketing, adult learning, and strategic operations, she brings a well-rounded and wide-ranging background to her association and the membership it serves. As part of an association with a small staff, wearing many different hats comes with the territory, and she’s learned to embrace it, love it, and frankly, she couldn’t imagine it—or want it—any other way. About This Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Alison Heppenstall is our guest this week on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast as we explore the practical side of going carbon free and effectively navigating the “call for sustainability.” While today’s podcast focuses on associations, nonprofits, and other membership-based organizations, it offers takeaways applicable to integrating sustainability into the core strategy of any business. Alison is the founder & managing director of b2b, B2 Media, and the Co-Executive Director of Climate Action for Associations (CAFA). Her expertise includes membership-based organizations and business-to-business strategy with a heavy emphasis on development, partnerships, and total sustainability. Resources from this podcast: CAFA: https://www.climateactionforassociations.org/ The Race to Zero Campaign: https://climatechampions.unfccc.int/ From crafting internal policies to advocating for pro-climate government policies, Alison highlights the vital steps associations need to take for building sustainability. The episode delves into practical strategies for associations, nonprofits, and other membership organizations to align with sustainability goals and foster positive environmental impact. About this Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Primarily working as a coach with nonprofits and associations on cultural competencies and strategies, Danielle Marshall, CDP, ACC, is our guest this week on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast. Danielle has been a fixture of the nonprofit and associations world throughout the bulk of her career. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Culture Principles. More About Culture Principles: https://www.culture-principles.com/ Learn About the upcoming Reimaging Racial Equity Learning Intensive: https://www.culture-principles.com/reimagining-racial-equity/ As a certified diversity professional and ICF executive coach, Danielle's extensive experience in racial equity strategy and coaching shines through as she shares her insights into the transformative potential of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts when integrated into an organization's strategic plan, mission, and operations. Throughout the conversation, Danielle emphasizes the necessity of embedding DEI initiatives into organizational strategic plans rather than treating them as separate endeavors. She highlights the significance of leadership buy-in, resource allocation, and genuine commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging. Furthermore, she addresses the challenges of authenticity in the workplace, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and understanding individual definitions of respect and care. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

As established here on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast, really good things tend to happen when you “stick to the mission.” Associations gain an advantage in inspiring both constituents and the workforce when their mission elicits passion and purpose. When an association's reason for existence is to save lives, it heightens the stakes and stress for everyone, including the staff. In this week's edition of the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast, we are joined by Alex Bardakh, MPP, CAE, the Senior Director at AMDA – Society for PALTC Medicine. Alex is a health policy and advocacy leader with an exceptional career that includes financial stewardship, strategic planning, media engagement, and event management. As discussed in today's episode, patience is crucial in Alex’s realm of health policy and government affairs. It takes months, years, and even decades to make an impact on legislative issues that can literally change and save lives on a large scale. "It can break at any moment, and you just never know when it will happen," he said. Building trust with your members and never overstepping despite your ambitions have also been key to Alex’s career. At the end of the day, you are serving others, and this is 'their house,' as he told us. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

Rodneikka Scott, MSC, CAE, brings nearly two decades of association management insights to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast this week. She currently serves as Vice President at the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), where she leads the member and state engagement team. She talks about how she has successfully transferred her competitive drive as a former NCAA Division I basketball player into her management positions over the years within associations. As Rodneikka discusses, that drive needs to be tempered with the understanding that she can’t get too down on herself, and it’s okay to experience losses and failures from time to time, particularly within programs such as membership campaigns, where the results often cannot be fully controlled. Furthermore, she discusses what it means to gain your team's buy-in as a manager, showcased by her proven track record of success within association management. She emphasizes the point that time management and being intentional with how you manage your team make you a better leader, as you will always find time to have your team come directly to you and talk with you. About This Podcast Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn more: https://coreadventures.com/

Carol Hamilton, the founder of Grace Social Sector Consulting, is our guest this week on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast. Carol is a dedicated, proven and deeply respected expert in the nonprofit sector, specializing in strategic planning, evaluation, and serving as an equity-focused nonprofit strategy consultant. Her focus is to assist associations and nonprofits that are ready to envision their future direction, design key goals through strategic planning, and, most importantly, enjoy the process. Visit her website: https://www.gracesocialsector.com/ Carol is also the host of “Mission: Impact”, a podcast for nonprofit leaders who want to do good in the world “without being a martyr to the cause.” You can follow her podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-impact/id1525965563 As a strategic planning expert, she emphasizes the importance of inclusive decision-making and discusses how organizations can balance ambitious goals with realistic outcomes. Additionally, Carol highlights the significance of integrating an equity lens into the strategic planning process, fostering a more inclusive and impactful future in the nonprofit sector. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Six Degrees of Associations, presented by Core Adventures, is a weekly podcast dedicated to real-world professional development knowledge for individuals working within all facets of associations. Folks wear many hats in an association, and our podcast keeps up with the shifting demands of today’s nonprofit workforce by interviewing today’s most influential people in the association universe, including consultants, to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how the future will shape out. If you are an 'association lifer' like we are, make Six Degrees of Associations part of your Wednesday morning routine. Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

Andrew Chamberlain is truly one of a kind. With a robust background as a former association CEO, he boasts an impressive 15-year tenure in executive roles within professional membership bodies across the UK. Since 2016, he has expanded his expertise globally as a renowned consultant in non-profit business development, leadership, strategic planning, and effective governance. Andrew brings a unique passion and fire to the association world, on a mission to address the challenges faced by Boards of Directors and Volunteers who are set up to fail in their associations. While volunteers are the lifeblood of associations, there are many ways they can inadvertently damage their association when set up for failure. As the Chief Development Officer & Co-Founder of Elevated, an international consulting firm dedicated to supporting non-profit and association business growth, Andrew is at the forefront of driving positive change. Learn more about Elevate: https://www.you-elevated.com/ Andrew is also a prolific podcaster, co-hosting the Association Transformation Podcast alongside Elisa Pratt, MA, CAE. Follow their podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/association-transformation/id1523269873 Other themes explored in today’s episode include how groupthink can crush institutions, education being at the heart of successful associations and board governance, and the unique (and untapped) position associations are in to literally change the world, one community at a time. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Core Adventures (formerly Core Affinity) works tirelessly to advance the value of affinity by working with association leaders to strengthen the connection with their members and increase the overall benefits of membership. When you win, we win. On this channel you can be sure to get connected to relevant news, best practices, and other important information for the association management industry and the larger business of marketing and revenue generation. Check back every week for a new episode featuring the best in the business as we feature guests from across the sector to include association leadership, world class marketers, affinity partner organization leadership, and much more! Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

We explore the difference-making abilities of influential members within associations this week on 6 Degrees of Associations with our guest, Brandon Lawrence. Brandon is an Executive Director with the Oncology State Societies at Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC). Discover the strategies behind identifying and effectively engaging these influential figures, gaining insights that resonate in the evolving landscape of associations. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role "Influencer" members play in ensuring a relevant, thriving association during this time of drastic technological change and marketplace volatility. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Core Adventures (formerly Core Affinity) works tirelessly to advance the value of affinity by working with association leaders to strengthen the connection with their members and increase the overall benefits of membership. When you win, we win. On this channel you can be sure to get connected to relevant news, best practices, and other important information for the association management industry and the larger business of marketing and revenue generation. Check back every week for a new episode featuring the best in the business as we feature guests from across the sector to include association leadership, world class marketers, affinity partner organization leadership, and much more! Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

Six Degrees of Associations producer, Casey Callanan, sits down with longtime association world executive Kathy Zwarick Shanley, PhD, CAE, ACC, this week on our podcast. Kathy shares key trends in the association world, focusing on the shift to hybrid work models and the challenges of effective communication. She emphasizes the importance of thoughtful decision-making, setting boundaries, and understanding diverse work styles. Kathy is a leadership coach, strategist, and Forbes Council Member. After decades of leading associations from the executive suite, Kathy currently serves as the CEO and President of Statice. Statice is a coaching consulting partner helping association executives and teams get an edge on the competition with proven, interactive, results-based strategy. This is Kathy’s second appearance on our podcast, you can watch her first episode with us here: https://youtu.be/nbjeSsv4Nhc Learn about Statice: https://www.think-statice.com/ About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Core Adventures (formerly Core Affinity) works tirelessly to advance the value of affinity by working with association leaders to strengthen the connection with their members and increase the overall benefits of membership. When you win, we win. On this channel you can be sure to get connected to relevant news, best practices, and other important information for the association management industry and the larger business of marketing and revenue generation. Check back every week for a new episode featuring the best in the business as we feature guests from across the sector to include association leadership, world class marketers, affinity partner organization leadership, and much more! Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

Change can be exhilarating, necessary, and anxiety-provoking. It is the undisputable champion when it comes to being a catalyst for growth. In the week’s edition of our 6 Degrees Associations Podcast, we enjoy a visit with Sara Wood for a conversation about the best ways to navigate change in the association world and beyond. This interview covers Sarah's keynote presentation on modern leadership and the importance of building trust within teams. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, transparency, and creating a "trusted space." Sara is an association management professional who works with Management Solutions Plus (MSP) in Maryland, an association management company (AMC). With MSP, she currently serves as Executive Director at the North American Association of Commencement Officers (NAACO) and the Public Media Business Association (PMBA). Additionally, she is the Deputy Executive Director at the Association of Water Technologies (AWT). She is a strategic facilitator, speaker, mentor, and catalyst, and as listeners of our podcast will soon find out… she is an incredibly engaging speaker and thought leader in our field. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Core Adventures (formerly Core Affinity) works tirelessly to advance the value of affinity by working with association leaders to strengthen the connection with their members and increase the overall benefits of membership. When you win, we win. On this channel you can be sure to get connected to relevant news, best practices, and other important information for the association management industry and the larger business of marketing and revenue generation. Check back every week for a new episode featuring the best in the business as we feature guests from across the sector to include association leadership, world class marketers, affinity partner organization leadership, and much more! Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

We are pleased to welcome Jeanette Gass, CAP, ACNP, DES, to our 6 Degrees of Association Podcast this week. Jeanette is the Senior Program Manager for Global Engagement with International City/County Management Association (ICMA). Jeanette joins our show to talk about the importance of global partnerships and other relationship building techniques she has seen bare fruit with ICMA. This work has ultimately improved the value ICMA has brought to its membership base and the lessons she shares are transferable to many different organizations. Jeanette shares insights into ICMA's global engagement strategies, highlighting the importance of partnerships and the challenges of expanding a U.S.-based association internationally. She discusses the value of continuous learning and recounts a humorous yet instructive experience during her travels in the Philippines, emphasizing the significance of asking questions for effective cross-cultural communication and collaboration. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Core Adventures (formerly Core Affinity) works tirelessly to advance the value of affinity by working with association leaders to strengthen the connection with their members and increase the overall benefits of membership. When you win, we win. On this channel you can be sure to get connected to relevant news, best practices, and other important information for the association management industry and the larger business of marketing and revenue generation. Check back every week for a new episode featuring the best in the business as we feature guests from across the sector to include association leadership, world class marketers, affinity partner organization leadership, and much more! Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠

This week on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting Rhea M. Steele, MS, FASAE, CAE, ODCP. We welcome Rhea to the program for a chat about bridging the gap between strategy, culture, and the explosion of AI and new technologies in the association world and beyond. Rhea is a seasoned association executive dedicated to driving business strategy forward by leveraging innovation, fostering engagement, and promoting empowerment. She currently serves as Chief of Staff and VP of Strategy & Governance with School Nutrition Association. When it comes to navigating the intersection of strategy and culture to build a winning team, we all need to play a role as association professionals. Furthermore, as technology landscapes continue to rapidly evolve on a near-daily basis, we must embrace it and become tech wizards capable of keeping up with the explosion of A.I. tools that will exponentially enhance our productivity. As we discuss in today’s podcast, there is no other choice. In essence, we all need to be technology and media wizards at some level in 2024 – and build our teams with that in mind. It’s about evolving or being irrelevant. About This Podcast Welcome to the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast: Presented by Core Adventures. Core Adventures (formerly Core Affinity) works tirelessly to advance the value of affinity by working with association leaders to strengthen the connection with their members and increase the overall benefits of membership. When you win, we win. On this channel you can be sure to get connected to relevant news, best practices, and other important information for the association management industry and the larger business of marketing and revenue generation. Check back every week for a new episode featuring the best in the business as we feature guests from across the sector to include association leadership, world class marketers, affinity partner organization leadership, and much more! Learn More: ⁠https://coreadventures.com/⁠