The Association Insights Podcast

In this solo episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher, CEO of OnWrd & UpWrd, breaks down one of the most debated tactics in association PR: awareness days. While some call them overdone or ineffective, Colleen makes the case that, done right, awareness days can unlock real visibility, credibility, and media wins—especially for associations.With real client examples and a clear, strategic framework, this episode is packed with practical advice on how to tap into awareness days in a way that’s smart, localized, and aligned with your mission.Key Highlights:Why Awareness Days Still Work: Despite the critiques, awareness days can offer a timely, built-in hook—if you avoid generic outreach and focus on relevance, localization, and timing.Market Selection That Matters: You don’t need to pitch everywhere. Colleen shares how choosing 5–10 key markets—based on membership, media openness, or strategic visibility—can help you go deeper, not wider.The Power of Localized Storytelling: From local data to member quotes to recent incidents, localizing your pitch is what turns an awareness day from a missed opportunity into a media win.Real-World Examples in ActionHear how OnWrd & UpWrd helped:A mental health association land TV interviews by tying Childhood Obesity Awareness Month to trending stories around GLP-1 drugs and presidential fitness tests.A boating safety client secure coverage by combining Global Drowning Prevention Awareness Day with localized accident data and seasonal relevance.Takeaway Tips You Can Use NowColleen shares six actionable strategies your team can implement today, from choosing markets and building in lead time, to layering news hooks and leveraging public data.Don’t Stop at the Hit—Maximize It:Once you land coverage, amplify it across your owned channels.At OnWrd & UpWrd, we believe the best PR efforts start with earned media and grow with owned media. Awareness days can be a powerful part of that strategy—when they’re done with intention, not just instinct.🎧 Tune in now for a smart, strategic solo episode packed with ideas your association can put into action before your next awareness day.Stay Connected: Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re continuing to sit down with top association leaders and industry experts for real-world insights on what’s working, what’s changing, and how to navigate the challenges—and opportunities—ahead. Stay tuned!

A True Video Partner: Rethinking Storytelling at Your AssociationIn this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, O&U CEO and host Colleen Gallagher sits down with C. Dallas Golden, DES, founder and Chief Video Strategist of Pond Ripple Media, for an honest and energizing conversation about the power of authentic storytelling. Dallas has spent the last decade helping associations and nonprofits elevate their video strategies—not as a vendor, but as a true partner.From interviews that spark emotion to B-roll that brings conferences to life, Dallas shares how associations can use video to connect more deeply with members, sponsors, and mission—all without blowing the budget.🎧 Whether you’re just getting started with video or looking to grow your strategy across departments, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and fresh perspective on what it means to tell your story well.Key Highlights:Authenticity Above All: Dallas shares his origin story—from actor to documentarian to video strategist—and explains why authenticity, not polish, is the secret to compelling content.Beyond the Marketing Budget: Associations often limit video to the marketing line item, but Dallas breaks down how to stretch investment across membership, sponsorship, conference, and education budgets—and why spreading ownership builds greater buy-in.From One Conference, 60 Videos:  Using his ongoing work with the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) as a case study, Dallas outlines how 20 interviews can yield 40+ pieces of evergreen video content that fuel engagement all year long.Video as a Sponsorship Opportunity: Don’t just spend on video—monetize it. Dallas shares how associations are incorporating interview segments into sponsorship packages and helping their corporate partners tell their own stories of impact and alignment.Partnership Over Production: It’s not just about being behind the camera—it’s about listening, aligning, and strategizing together. Dallas explains why being treated as a partner, not a vendor, is key to meaningful results.Fast Turnaround, High ROI: Learn how a 45-second thank you video from an ED (produced on-site and turned around in 48 hours) helped one client generate over 6,300 impressions and more than 100 click-throughs—in just one day.Metrics That Matter: From impressions to engagement to click-through rates, Dallas explains what data points help show the ROI of video and how associations can better track results to make the case for continued investment.🎧 Tune in for a real-world, results-driven conversation about how associations can create video content that resonates, gets seen, and makes a difference.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re continuing to sit down with top association leaders and industry experts for real-world insights on what’s working, what’s changing, and how to navigate the challenges—and opportunities—ahead. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we’re bringing you a special replay of our summer LinkedIn Live panel: Communicating What Matters—How Associations Can Lead with Strategic Storytelling.Originally hosted by OnWrd & UpWrd CEO Colleen Gallagher, this roundtable features two communications leaders navigating some of the most complex issues facing associations today:Tim Ebner, Senior Director of Communications at the Can Manufacturers InstituteSean Luechtefeld, Ph.D., Senior Director of Communications at ANCOR🎧 From politicized narratives and media scrutiny to member trust and message discipline, this conversation offers honest, experience-driven advice for association pros navigating the intersection of policy, people, and purpose.Key Highlights:Mission Over Moment: Why clarity of mission and values is critical for staying grounded in complex, polarized environments—and how communications can lead with focus, not fear.Storytelling with Intention: How to elevate real member stories in a way that resonates—and why it's about amplifying, not exploiting.Crisis Isn’t the Time to Build a Playbook: Why the best comms leaders prepare before a flashpoint—and how Tim and Sean work cross-functionally to set expectations and build trust.Empathy, Not Neutrality: Why staying neutral often isn’t an option—and how associations can lead with empathy and authenticity while holding firm on their values.Media Readiness & Message Discipline: Tips for navigating media inquiries, staying on message, and preparing staff and board members for sensitive conversations.Advice for Communicators: Whether you're a one-person team or leading a full department, Tim and Sean offer tactical guidance for aligning your communications strategy with what matters most.🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful, unfiltered conversation about what it means to lead with clarity, courage, and purpose in today’s association landscape.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: New episodes weekly featuring association leaders, content strategists, and storytellers exploring the power of clear, values-driven communication. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Meghan Henning sits down with Marilena Vrana, Vice President of Public Affairs and EU Operations at the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA), to explore what it takes to lead a global association strategy with unity, speed, and impact.From Brussels to Washington, Marilena shares how her team navigates cultural, regulatory, and political complexity while keeping member needs and patient access front and center. With decades of experience in European health policy and a deep commitment to collaboration, she offers powerful lessons in stakeholder engagement, cross-border communication, and values-based leadership.🎧 Whether you’re managing regional offices or rethinking your global footprint, this episode delivers clear, thoughtful insight into how associations can stay aligned across continents—and stay ahead of change.Key Highlights:Anticipating Change, Not Just Reacting: Marilena explains how PPTA stayed ahead of new EU legislation on substances of human origin—mobilizing early, preparing members, and showing up as a trusted, expert voice.Stakeholder Listening with Empathy and Intent: Why true advocacy starts with active listening—not just to members and partners, but to policymakers too. Marilena shares how building human-centered relationships helps advance shared goals.Transatlantic Alignment in Practice: From messaging consistency to cultural fluency, Marilena breaks down how her team collaborates across European and American offices—and why diversity is their greatest strength.What Makes PPTA a Model for Global Associations: Learn how PPTA evolved from fragmented entities into one global voice—driven by strategic planning, agile operations, and a shared mission of patient access to life-saving plasma-derived therapies.Mission-Led Strategy for 2025 and Beyond: Hear PPTA’s three priorities for the next two years: raising awareness of plasma therapies, ensuring policies work in practice, and building trust through transparency, evidence, and partnership.Leadership Lessons from Lived Experience: From navigating uncertainty to leading with empathy, Marilena shares deeply personal reflections on how her experience as a patient shaped her leadership philosophy—and why authenticity is her greatest asset.🎧 Tune in for a global perspective on association leadership that’s grounded, strategic, and refreshingly human.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re continuing to sit down with top association leaders for real-world insights on what’s working, what’s changing, and how they’re navigating the challenges—and opportunities—ahead. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we wrap up our August series on artificial intelligence with a standout example of AI in action. Host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Dave Dellin, Chief Executive Officer of the American Paint Horse Association (APHA), to explore how a tech-forward mindset is transforming a legacy association. From reducing call volume to enhancing 24/7 member support, Dave shares how APHA’s AI-powered chatbot, BeccaBot, is making life easier for both members and staff—and what’s next as they plan to use AI across their digital ecosystem.🎧 Whether you're leading a small staff or managing a large membership base, this episode offers smart, grounded insights into how associations can implement AI with intentionality, purpose, and clear member value.Key Highlights:Why AI, Why Now?: Dave shares what drove his team to explore AI in the first place—and how curiosity, peer learning, and strategic pain points led to a practical use case that delivered results.Meet BeccaBot: Named in honor of APHA’s founder, BeccaBot is an AI-powered chatbot trained on 400+ pages of complex rulebooks and website content—offering clear, accurate answers to more than 1,000 member questions each month.Staff Impact: 36% Fewer Calls: With over 4,000–6,000 member calls per month, BeccaBot has helped reduce call volume by more than a third—giving staff more time to focus on meaningful member support.Better Insights, Better Service: From flagging confusing processes to identifying member pain points in real time, Dave explains how BeccaBot is also helping APHA streamline operations and improve service design.What Makes a Good Chatbot?: Dave breaks down the key lessons from months of training, testing, and refining BeccaBot—and why not all chatbots are created equal.Beyond the Bot: What’s Next for AI at APHA: From personalized content to smarter classifieds, Dave offers a peek into how APHA is exploring AI to strengthen member engagement and create new digital experiences.Advice for Association Leaders: If you're still on the fence about AI, Dave shares candid, practical advice for getting started—including how to identify use cases, vet vendors, and build internal buy-in.🎧 Tune in for a real-world look at how one association is embracing AI with clear goals, thoughtful implementation, and a deep commitment to its members.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re continuing to sit down with top association leaders for real-world insights on what’s working, what’s changing, and how they’re navigating the challenges—and opportunities—ahead. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our August series on artificial intelligence with a thoughtful conversation about voice, values, and the real-world applications of generative AI.Host Meghan Henning sits down with Preeti Vasishtha, Director of Content and Editor in Chief at the American Academy of Actuaries, to explore how she’s using AI as both an intern and a strategic partner—from onboarding to a highly technical industry to developing smarter content workflows that save time without sacrificing authenticity.🎧 Whether you’re building your first AI policy, experimenting with tools, or just trying to wrap your head around the potential, this episode offers honest perspective and practical insights from someone who’s learning by doing—and doing it thoughtfully.Key Highlights:AI as Intern and Ally – Why Preeti sees GenAI as both a time-saving assistant and a powerful partner—and how she uses it to accelerate learning, streamline research, and support strategic storytelling.How to Write a Better Prompt – The importance of framing, values, and specificity when prompting—and why your vision matters more than the tool itself.Repurpose, Reuse, Rethink – From condensing 100-page reports to surfacing hidden gems in your knowledge library, Preeti shares how associations can use AI to unlock more value from existing content.Finding—and Keeping—Your Voice – Preeti explains how to maintain authenticity in AI-generated content, why she still starts with a messy first draft, and how to recognize a “too-polished” AI tone.Where Associations Stand – What she’s seeing across the sector, including common barriers to adoption, examples of smart implementation, and the growing gap between member expectations and association readiness.Data, Policy, and Trust – Why good data governance is the backbone of ethical AI use—and how associations can start small while building guardrails for the future.🎧 Tune in for a candid, thoughtful conversation on how associations can approach AI not just as a tool—but as a strategic decision rooted in mission, member value, and clear-eyed curiosity.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re continuing our August series on AI with more conversations featuring association leaders who are experimenting with tools, testing use cases, and working through the policy, people, and purpose of AI adoption. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we kick off our August series on artificial intelligence with a powerful real-world example of how small-staff associations can lead with strategy, innovation—and confidence.Host Meghan Henning sits down with Cathy Lada, D.Sc., CAE, Chief Marketing & Membership Officer at the American Alliance of Orthopaedic Executives (AAOE), to explore how her team is thoughtfully integrating AI to enhance member experience, streamline operations, and unlock time-saving value across the organization.🎧 Whether you’re just starting to explore AI tools or ready to build your first custom GPT, this episode offers clear, practical insights from someone who’s been there—and is doing the work every day.Key Highlights:The First Prompt is the Hardest – How Cathy moved from AI skeptic to strategic champion—and why a $24 prompt engineering course changed everything.Build a Policy Before You Build a Bot – Why a clear AI policy was AAOE’s starting point—and how they keep it updated as tools evolve.Real-Time Use, Real-Time Impact – From custom GPTs to job aid generation, Cathy shares how her team is saving hours each week through smart AI applications.Confidence Through Crowdsourcing – How AAOE involved staff from day one and built trust by aligning use cases with values, confidentiality, and member benefit.Tested by Humans, Trusted by Members – Why Cathy insists on human vetting for all AI-generated outputs—and how her team validates ideas with both members and industry partners.What’s Next: Vendor-Facing AI – Learn how AAOE is exploring the possibility of piloting a custom chatbot to support exhibitors, advertisers, and sponsors—aiming to deliver better service and saving time along the way.🎧 Tune in for a candid, encouraging conversation about how associations of any size can embrace AI—without losing what makes them human.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re continuing our August series on AI with more leaders who are testing, learning, and finding real-world value—from custom tools to smarter content strategies. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we wrap up our July series on sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue with a candid conversation about the human side of corporate engagement.Host Meghan Henning sits down with Cindy Simpson, M.Ed., CAE, Corporate Relations Manager at the Urgent Care Association (UCA), who brings decades of experience across membership, meetings, and business development. With over 100 corporate partners in her portfolio, Cindy offers grounded, real-world advice on building trust, qualifying fit, and creating long-term value for both members and sponsors.🎧 Whether you’re refining your sales approach or rethinking your entire partner strategy, this episode delivers fresh ideas and proven tactics you can apply right away.Key Highlights:Start with Listening – Cindy shares why every partnership starts with understanding—not pitching—and how asking the right questions early helps set the stage for long-term success.It’s Not Just About the Check – Why treating corporate members as partners, not piggy banks, is essential—and how UCA encourages “test drive” involvement before deeper investment.Beyond the Exhibit Hall – From regional events to strategic think tanks, learn how UCA builds year-round visibility and engagement for partners beyond their sold-out convention floor.Up the Ladder, Not Out the Door – Cindy breaks down her approach to evolving sponsor relationships over time—moving partners from basic brand awareness to trusted thought leadership roles.Member Experience First – Hear how thoughtful partnership strategy directly supports UCA’s member experience—from connecting them to solutions that help with tight margins to curating meaningful education.Advice for Associations – Cindy offers practical guidance on retaining high-dollar sponsors, managing churn at lower tiers, and having the honest conversations that build trust, not just transactions.🎧 This conversation is packed with insights for any association professional looking to deepen industry relationships, align partnerships with mission, and build sustainable non-dues revenue.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: In August, we’re diving into one of the most talked-about topics in associations today: AI. Our next podcast series will explore how associations are experimenting with, implementing, and scaling AI tools—from personalization engines to member support and content creation. Tune in for real-world examples, practical insights, and conversations that cut through the hype to focus on what AI can actually do for your organization. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our July series on sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue with a fresh perspective from the higher education space. Host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Leah Lang, Senior Director of Partnerships and Corporate Engagement at EDUCAUSE, to explore how the organization moved beyond transactional sponsorships and built a high-impact partnership model that aligns with their mission—and delivers real value to both members and industry.🎧 Whether you’re building a sponsor program from scratch or looking to deepen your existing relationships, this episode offers powerful takeaways on strategy, structure, and sustained success.Key Highlights:From A La Carte to All In – Why EDUCAUSE moved away from one-off offerings and built bundled, relationship-based partnerships—and how that shift improved satisfaction for both sides.Let the Data Guide You – How EDUCAUSE used stakeholder feedback and internal analysis to reshape their program—and how your association can do the same.The Power of Fit – Why not every sponsor becomes a partner—and how EDUCAUSE curates its partner roster to ensure community alignment and long-term value.Mission at the Core – How Leah’s member-first mindset ensures industry engagement supports the broader mission of advancing higher ed through technology.Advice for Associations – From creative bundling to thoughtful onboarding, Leah shares tactical advice for associations looking to reimagine their approach to non-dues revenue.What’s Next – Learn how EDUCAUSE’s Annual Partner Summit is evolving into a year-round innovation program—and why convening diverse stakeholders is a powerful way to co-create solutions.🎧 Tune in for a candid, practical conversation on how thoughtful strategy and member-first thinking can turn sponsor relationships into something deeper—and far more impactful.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’ll wrap up our July series with one more real-world example of how associations are rethinking value, impact, and what partnership really means. Stay tuned!

In this special encore episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher welcomes back David Whited, Principal of Design Research & Strategy at Highland, to walk us through fresh insights from the newly released 2025 Young Professional Membership Index (YPMI)—dropping the same day this episode airs.Earlier this year, David helped us kick off our Gen Z series with data-backed insights and practical frameworks for attracting and retaining younger members. That episode sparked major interest—and now he’s back to unpack what’s shifted, what’s holding steady, and how associations can take the next step in their engagement strategy for Gen Zs and young Millennials.🎧 Whether you’re leading a young professionals committee or setting strategy at the board level, this episode will help you benchmark your efforts, spot gaps, and find your next move.Key Highlights:Leadership Focus Still Leads – Why leadership alignment remains the single most important driver of young professional retention.What Tier Are You In? – How Highland’s four-tier maturity model helps associations understand where they stand—and what to do next.The Power of Bridge Experiences – Only 19% of associations are using them, yet they can drive up to a 50% boost in first-year retention.Getting Unstuck – Why most organizations stall between good intentions and meaningful action, and how to move from talk to traction.AI & Innovation Readiness – What the 2025 data reveals about AI experimentation in associations, and where the biggest gaps remain.One Priority to Focus On – Why prototyping, not perfection, is the best path forward for associations ready to engage the next generation.🎧 Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that blends reflection, real data, and practical next steps for associations of all sizes.Resources:📊 Download the 2025 Young Professional Membership Index (YPMI) National Report: https://www.highlandsolutions.com/member-index/national-report-2025 🧠 Learn more about Highland: www.highlandsolutions.comStay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’re heading back into our July series on sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue—featuring fresh perspectives and bold new models that are helping associations unlock value beyond dues. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our July series on sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue with a behind-the-scenes look at how one major association is building long-term value through strategic partnerships and innovative fulfillment models.Host Meghan Henning sits down with John Buckley, Senior Director of Business Partnerships and Expo Operations at the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), to explore how IDWeek has evolved into a flagship experience that delivers for both members and industry partners.With nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit event strategy, John shares how trust, creativity, and a long-game mindset have transformed IDSA’s non-dues revenue approach—from tailored sponsorships to citywide visibility campaigns.🎧 Whether you’re managing a massive expo floor or just getting started with industry partnerships, this episode offers tactical takeaways and real-world ideas to scale your success.Key Highlights:Relationships First – Why IDSA calls sponsors “industry partners” and how ongoing dialogue helps drive alignment and renewal.Beyond the Booth – How one full-access exhibitor registration created new value for partners—and enhanced the attendee experience.Fulfillment That Works – The case for outsourcing logistics and how it freed up IDSA’s team to get more creative and strategic.Location, Location, Location – Using citywide marketing and hotel-based placements to elevate brand visibility across every touchpoint.The ID Exchange – A live, NFL-draft-style experience that brings partners together to claim high-impact sponsorship opportunities—months before the show.Creativity in Action – From puppy lounges to Amazon Prime Day-style flash sales, John shares innovative ideas that keep IDWeek fresh and fun.Start Small, Scale Smart – Advice for associations with limited resources on how to test, adapt, and grow their non-dues revenue programs over time.🎧 This episode is a must-listen for any association looking to build stronger sponsor relationships, streamline operations, and rethink what’s possible in partnership strategy.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon:We’ll continue our July series with even more examples of how associations are moving beyond traditional sponsor models to unlock new revenue—and new value. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we kick off our July series on sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue with a powerful conversation featuring Edessa Polzin, PCM, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the American Marketing Association (AMA).Host Meghan Henning sits down with Edessa to explore how AMA is transforming partnerships from transactional to transformational. With a background in B2B growth strategy and partner-led innovation, Edessa shares a bold, mission-centered approach to corporate engagement—one that prioritizes impact, alignment, and long-term value over one-off logos and short-term dollars.🎧 Whether you're rethinking your sponsor packages or looking to deepen your existing partner relationships, this episode offers practical frameworks and fresh inspiration.Key Highlights:Beyond the Booth – Why AMA moved away from transactional sponsorships—and how mission alignment led to deeper value for members and partners alike.Bigger, Better, Faster – Edessa’s go-to framework for evaluating partnerships—and how associations can apply it to scale smarter and move faster.The Enterprise Shift – How AMA is designing bundled, multi-touchpoint partnerships that deliver year-round engagement and sustained revenue.Breaking the Silos – Why cross-functional collaboration has been critical to AMA’s success—and how one biweekly meeting changed everything.Stretching the Mission – A real-world case study in partnering outside your traditional audience to expand impact (and build a future pipeline).Saying No with Strategy – What Edessa looks for before saying yes—and why “dollars without depth” isn’t worth the trade.Testing, Quietly – How a “start small and validate” approach has helped AMA experiment, learn, and grow without institutional friction.🎧 This episode is a must-listen for associations looking to elevate their partner strategy, build meaningful relationships, and drive non-dues revenue that actually advances the mission.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: This July, we’re spotlighting how associations are innovating in sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue—from bold new models to tactical lessons that will help you get unstuck. Tune in weekly for fresh insights and real-world stories from leaders making it work.

In this short solo episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher delivers a high-energy dose of practical advice for busy association leaders—one quick-hit insight at a time.With more than a dozen rapid-fire questions, Colleen tackles everything from member engagement and strategic planning to board dynamics, advocacy messaging, and internal communication. If you’ve ever wished for a pocket-sized playbook of smart, actionable association strategies—you’re in the right place.🎧 Whether you're running a team, advising a board, or just trying to get your next member email out the door, this episode is packed with ideas you can implement right away.Key Highlights:🔥 Messaging Mistakes – Why starting with your members is the fix you’ve been looking for.📞 Dashboard Drop-Off? – The first thing to do when engagement tanks—and it’s not another email.🎉 Retention That Works – Why milestone celebrations can matter more than discounts.📣 Advocacy That Moves People – How to make policy feel personal—and mobilize support.🧠 Board Strategy – One small agenda item that keeps meetings focused and mission-aligned.✍️ Smart Comms Tip – How one great message can live a dozen lives across your channels.🚨 When It’s Political – Why values-based communication matters more than ever.📊 Talk to the Quiet Ones – Why your “sometimes show” members may have your smartest insights.🎯 The Pilot Mindset – How associations can innovate without blowing up the budget.🌱 Burnout Tip – What to do when it all feels like too much.🎧 Tune in now for a fast-paced, no-fluff episode full of real-world advice—and the kind of encouragement association pros need right now.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: In July, we’re diving deep into sponsorships, partnerships, and non-dues revenue—from new models to internal collaboration, to what top associations are doing to create lasting value. Don't miss the ideas (and case studies) that could help future-proof your bottom line.

In this encore episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher welcomes back Dr. Bill Conerly, economist, Forbes contributor, and author of The Flexible Stance: Thriving in a Boom/Bust Economy. Almost two years to the day since his last appearance, Bill returns with a timely update on the economic landscape—and what it means for associations navigating uncertainty in 2025.With political changes underway, persistent inflation concerns, and tariff decisions looming large, Bill breaks down the outlook for recession, how to plan when the data is murky, and why acting quickly and smartly still sets resilient associations apart. From contingency planning to member engagement and policy positioning, this conversation is a must-listen for association leaders seeking clarity—and calm—in the face of complex signals.🎧 Whether you’re leading through growth, bracing for downturn, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to guide your next board conversation or budget draft.Key Highlights:Recession or Just Risk? – Why uncertainty is the real threat right now—and what associations should watch for.Planning with Purpose – How a one-page contingency plan can help associations respond faster and smarter.Navigating Hot Topics – What to say (and what to avoid) when it comes to tariffs, immigration, and tax reform. Member-Centered Messaging – Why knowing what your members are really facing is your biggest communications asset.AI, Aging & Workforce Shifts – How associations can prepare for two massive forces reshaping the economy.What Resilience Looks Like Now – Lessons from COVID and how to double down on what actually worked.Just Pick Up the Phone – Why talking to your members—especially the quiet ones—might be your smartest move all year.Resources:📘 The Flexible Stance: Thriving in a Boom/Bust Economy by Bill Conerly: Buy on Amazon🗞️ Bill’s Free Monthly Newsletter: Subscribe hereStay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: Tune in weekly as we share practical insights and powerful conversations with association leaders navigating change, building community, and shaping what’s next.

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Leonard Steinhorn, Professor of Communication and Affiliate Professor of History at American University, for a dynamic, deeply relevant conversation on how associations can lead with clarity, ethics, and impact in today’s fragmented media environment.A former broadcast commentator, prolific writer, and award-winning educator, Professor Steinhorn offers timeless principles and timely advice on what’s changed in media—and what never should.🎧 If you’re navigating polarization, disinformation, or simply trying to get your association’s message to stick, this episode is a must-listen.Key Highlights:Snackable, Story-Driven, & Strategic: Why attention spans have changed—and what associations must do to break through.The Algorithm vs. the Mission: How modern media systems reward outrage and what that means for ethical communicators.Media ≠ Journalism: A crucial distinction that affects how your message is received—and why it matters more than ever.Trust Rebuilt Through Transparency: What history teaches us about institutional trust—and the power of doing good while doing well.Gen Z & the Future of Media: What today’s students expect from organizations—and how to connect across generations.🎧 Tune in now for a thought-provoking conversation that blends media literacy, strategic communication, and practical storytelling advice for every association leader.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: We’ll continue exploring how associations can communicate what matters—with fresh perspectives from leaders navigating crisis, complexity, and cultural change through smart, values-driven communication. Don’t miss what’s ahead.

In this solocast episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher, CEO of OnWrd & UpWrd, dives into one of the most essential, and often most underleveraged, tools in any association’s toolbox: communication.From navigating complex topics to telling stories that resonate, Colleen shares how associations can move beyond the buzzwords and show up with clarity, courage, and strategy in their communications.🎧 If you’ve ever struggled to get the right message to the right people—or felt stuck between saying something and saying nothing—this episode is for you.Key Highlights: What Strategic Really Means: Why communications shouldn’t be a bolt-on and how to embed intention, not just information. Navigating Complexity: What to say (and when) when your members are divided or the topic is politically charged. Storytelling that Connects: How to surface and share stories that drive engagement and reflect your values. Crisis or Opportunity?: How to prepare before a crisis hits—and why trust can be built even in tough moments. Takeaway Framework: Colleen’s three-point checklist to strengthen your communications muscle and lead with impact.🎧 Tune in now for a candid, tactical look at how to communicate what matters—especially when it matters most.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: In June, we’re exploring what it means to Communicate What Matters—with guests sharing how they’re driving engagement, understanding media and messaging, managing reputational risk, and telling their stories with purpose and precision. Don’t miss what’s ahead.

In this bonus episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we wrap up our Gen Z Insights Series—spotlighting rising professionals shaping the future of associations from the inside out. This special series is made possible by our partners at Highland.Host Keaveny Hewitt from OnWrd & UpWrd sits down with Alyssa Garcia, Web Project Manager, Master Juggler, and Cat Herder at Matrix Group International, whose journey from audio engineer to association tech partner is anything but traditional. Alyssa brings a refreshing blend of creative storytelling, strategic thinking, and deep curiosity to the conversation—offering insights on everything from website design to DEI, mentorship, and what it means to take up space.🎧 It’s the perfect finale to our Gen Z series—filled with purpose, candor, and big-picture thinking about where associations go from here.Key Highlights:From Studio to Strategy: How a music industry background led Alyssa to association tech—and what storytelling and design have in common.Websites That Work: Why redesigns are about more than navigation—and how intentional digital experiences can signal inclusion, trust, and clarity to members.Take Up Space: What it’s like to be a woman of color in leadership—and why Alyssa believes young professionals shouldn’t wait to be invited to the table.Mentorship That Matters: How one CEO's representation and generosity changed Alyssa’s perspective—and what that tells us about the power of seeing yourself in leadership.Creatives Belong Here: Why associations need to rethink what "professional" looks like—and embrace the diverse talents and perspectives Gen Z brings to the table.AANHPI Heritage Month Reflections: Alyssa shares what this month means to her as a Filipino American—and why representation, especially in leadership, still matters deeply.Real Over Rigid: Whether it’s website copy, social media, or advocacy campaigns—authentic storytelling builds trust faster than polish ever could.🎧 Tune in now for a smart, thoughtful, and inspiring send-off to our Gen Z Insights Series.Resources:🌐 Learn more about our series partner Highland: www.highlandsolutions.com📊 Explore the Young Professional Membership Index: http://ypmi.reportThe YPMI offers a quick, 15-minute organizational snapshot that helps association leaders identify gaps in young professional engagement and benchmark their performance against peers. It’s free to take—and packed with immediately actionable insights.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon:🎙️ In June, we’re shifting focus to Communicating What Matters—a month-long look at how associations are navigating complexity, managing crises, and telling their stories with purpose and impact. From communications strategy to crisis response, we’re diving into what works—and what leaders need now. Don’t miss it.

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our Gen Z Insights Series—spotlighting rising professionals shaping the future of associations from the inside out. This special series is made possible by our partners at Highland.Host Keaveny Hewitt from OnWrd & UpWrd welcomes two dynamic Gen Z/young Millennial leaders to the mic: Anastacia Barbosa-McBride, Content Marketing Manager at Bostrom, and Taylor Barnett, Events Coordinator at NIRSA. Together, they dive into what it means to work—and lead—as early-career professionals in a multigenerational industry.From digital engagement and workplace culture to intergenerational dynamics and professional purpose, this conversation is equal parts energizing and eye-opening. Whether you're rethinking your member engagement strategy or mentoring your youngest team member, this episode offers candid insights and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.Key Highlights:The Power of Mission-Driven Work: Why Gen Z finds purpose in associations—and how that fuels creativity, resilience, and connection across the board.Digital Expectations, Real Engagement: From AI tools to short-form reels, learn how Gen Z wants to be reached—and what associations can stop doing now.Beyond the Brochure: Why long emails, printed flyers, and overly scripted content are missing the mark—and how associations can meet younger audiences where they are.Trust & Leadership Pipelines: How associations can empower Gen Z employees by creating clear leadership pathways, embracing experimentation, and trusting younger professionals to lead.Authenticity Over Optics: Why real, behind-the-scenes content performs best—and how an on-the-ground approach to Instagram is helping members feel seen, included, and valued.Bridging the Generational Gap: From imposter syndrome to earned trust, hear what it’s like to be the youngest person in the room—and how colleagues can better support rising talent.What Gen Z Really Wants: Hint: It’s not free pizza. It’s feedback, transparency, meaningful recognition, and a chance to shape what’s next.🎧 Tune in now for a real-talk conversation about connection, communication, and what it means to grow up—and lead—in today’s association world.Resources:🌐 Learn more about our series partner Highland: www.highlandsolutions.com📊 Explore the Young Professional Membership Index: http://ypmi.reportThe YPMI offers a quick, 15-minute organizational snapshot that helps association leaders identify gaps in young professional engagement and benchmark their performance against peers. It’s free to take—and packed with immediately actionable insights.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon:One more Gen Z bonus episode is dropping this Friday! We’re wrapping our series with a powerful finale featuring more bold ideas and honest reflections from young professionals driving change across the association sector. Don’t miss it.This special series is brought to you by our friends at Highland, where strategy meets research meets action.

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our Gen Z Insights Series—spotlighting rising professionals shaping the future of associations from the inside out. This special series is made possible by our partners at Highland.Host Keaveny Hewitt from OnWrd & UpWrd sits down with Rachel Grace Leman, Specialist, Program Development at the Association of Corporate Counsel. With honesty, energy, and thoughtfulness, Rachel shares how her Gen Z perspective is helping reshape the way associations think about meaning, engagement, and professional growth—from mission alignment to mental health to making room for vulnerability at work.If you care about cultivating next-generation leadership, creating healthier work cultures, or just want to better understand what Gen Z really values—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.Key Highlights:More Than a Job: Why values alignment and workplace transparency are non-negotiables for Gen Z.Mental Health & Meaningful Work: How Rachel’s professional journey has been shaped by her experiences with burnout, identity, and mental well-being—and how associations can show up better for their people.Safe to Grow: What it takes to create a culture where younger professionals feel safe enough to ask questions, take risks, and speak up.Inside the Legal World: How Rachel’s work at ACC offers a unique lens into one of the most tradition-bound professions—and what Gen Z is bringing to the table.The Power of Vulnerability: Why authenticity matters, and how Rachel is redefining what professionalism can look like in today’s workplace.Advice for Association Leaders: Practical ways to support and retain younger team members—starting with listening, investing, and letting them lead.🎧 Tune in now for a smart, heartfelt, and hopeful conversation that bridges generations and reimagines what a career in associations can be.Resources: 🌐 Learn more about our series partner Highland: www.highlandsolutions.com 📊 Explore the Young Professional Membership Index: http://ypmi.reportThe YPMI offers a quick, 15-minute organizational snapshot that helps association leaders identify gaps in young professional engagement and benchmark their performance against peers. It’s free to take—and packed with immediately actionable insights.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon:This May, we’re continuing the conversation with Gen Z professionals who are shaping the future of associations. From redesigning membership models to rethinking workplace culture, our Gen Z Insights series highlights the real stories, bold ideas, and fresh perspectives that are driving innovation across the association sector. These episodes offer an inside look at what’s next—straight from the generation leading the charge.This special series is brought to you by our friends at Highland, where strategy meets research meets action.

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we continue our Gen Z Insights Series—spotlighting rising professionals shaping the future of associations from the inside out. This special series is made possible by our partners at Highland.Host Keaveny Hewitt from OnWrd & UpWrd sits down with Laiya Rollins, Manager of Membership & Workforce Initiatives at LeadingAge Virginia. Laiya shares her journey from temp to leader in aging services, offering candid insight into what makes Gen Z stay, what drives real workforce engagement, and why culture and purpose matter more than ever.If you care about workforce development, remote work, or building meaningful Gen Z engagement pathways—this episode is packed with honest reflections and actionable ideas.Key Highlights:Career with Purpose: Why Gen Z isn’t just job-hopping for paychecks—and how associations can align mission with motivation.Ripples of Impact: Laiya’s powerful take on association work as a multiplying force for good across communities and sectors.Beyond the Bedside: Why aging services aren't just for healthcare professionals, and how associations can broaden awareness of their industries.Remote Work Real Talk: From creating boundaries to finding belonging, Laiya shares the challenges and benefits of transitioning to fully remote work.Culture, Not Just Compliance: Why recruiting for values and listening for the “message behind the message” is key to long-term retention.Workforce Advice for Leaders: How associations can meet employees where they are—without sacrificing expectations or impact.🎧 Tune in now to hear how one Gen Z leader is redefining what it means to build a meaningful career in associations—and why workforce work is people work.Resources: 🌐 Learn more about our series partner Highland: www.highlandsolutions.com 📊 Explore the Young Professional Membership Index: http://ypmi.reportThe YPMI offers a quick, 15-minute organizational snapshot that helps association leaders identify gaps in young professional engagement and benchmark their performance against peers. It’s free to take—and packed with immediately actionable insights.Stay Connected:Subscribe to The Association Insights podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Podcasts to ensure you never miss an episode.Follow us on LinkedIn at OnWrd & UpWrd for the latest in association trends and strategies.Coming Soon: This May, we’re continuing to hand the mic to Gen Z professionals shaping the future of associations. From rethinking membership value to balancing remote work, our Gen Z Insights series features candid conversations with rising leaders who are building community, driving innovation, and challenging long-held assumptions from the inside out. These episodes spotlight fresh perspectives, practical ideas, and a glimpse into what’s next—straight from the generation leading the charge.🎧 This special series is brought to you by our friends at Highland, where strategy meets research meets action.