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 paralyzi...
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, ...
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 di...
Send us a text🎙️ In this compelling episode of Association Transformation, Elisa Pratt hosts this important deep dive solo and takes on one of the most pressing challenges facing trade associations today: industry consolidation. Joined by Rob Paterkiewicz (Selected Independent Funeral Homes) and Leann Shepp (American Bankers Association), the conversation reveals how associations are adapting to dramatic marketplace changes as private equity and corporate acquisitions reshape their membership...
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 w...
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...
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 oth...
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. 👻🎃🧟♂️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 look...
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 ever...
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-sce...
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 conversatio...
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 greate...
Send us a textJoin 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 politica...
Send us a textNo 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 r...
Send us a textWe 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....
Send us a textJoin 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 existi...
Send us a textJoin 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. Do...
Send us a textJoin 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 y...