Association Strong

Technology, Online Communities and Private Equity Impact on Associations

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:26:38 -0400

In this episode of the Association Strong Podcast, Tom and Dave sits down with Connor Sibley, CTO for Higher Logic for a forward-looking conversation on how technology is reshaping the association landscape. From the rapid evolution of digital tools to the growing importance of online communities, Connor shares insights on how associations can use technology to deepen member engagement, deliver greater value, and stay relevant in a fast-changing world.

The discussion also explores the increasing role of private equity in the association space, what it means for association strategy, and how organizations can think about growth, partnerships, and long-term sustainability. Connor brings a practical perspective on where the opportunities are, where the risks may lie, and how leaders can navigate this new environment.

Whether you are an association executive, board leader, or industry partner, this episode offers valuable insights on technology trends, digital community building, and the evolving business dynamics shaping the future of associations.

How to be the Ultimate Connector and Build Your Network

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:13:34 -0500

In this engaging episode of the Association Strong Podcast, Tom Morrison and Dave Will sit down with Ginger Johnson from Powered by Connection to unpack what it truly means to be an ultimate connector—and why connection is one of the most powerful skills any leader can develop.

Ginger shares practical, real-world strategies for building a strong, authentic network by intentionally connecting people in ways that create mutual value. This isn’t about collecting business cards or transactional networking—it’s about becoming the person others trust to open doors, spark collaboration, and elevate entire communities.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why the best networks are built on generosity, not self-promotion
How to spot opportunities to connect people for win-win outcomes
Simple habits that turn everyday interactions into lasting relationships
How being a connector strengthens your leadership, influence, and impact

Whether you’re an executive, volunteer leader, or emerging professional, this conversation will challenge you to rethink networking—and inspire you to become the kind of connector everyone wants in their corner.

🎧 Listen in and start building a network that works because you do.

Association Boards and AI... The Big Questions to be Asking

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

In this thought-provoking episode of Association Strong, hosts Dave Will and Tom Morrison sit down with Jeff De Cagna, a leading voice on association foresight and strategy, to unpack the critical conversations every board should be having about Artificial Intelligence.

From rethinking governance and member value to understanding the ethical and strategic implications of AI, this episode dives deep into how associations can embrace AI as a catalyst for innovation and growth—not a threat to tradition.

If you’re a CEO, board member, or association professional looking to lead confidently in the age of AI, this episode will challenge your thinking and inspire action. So listen in...

How Engagement and Value Lead to 4,000% Growth

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:41:30 -0400

Don't miss highly informative recap from myself and Dave Will on our recent energizing webinar we produced for the UST Education Series. We discuss what does 4,000% growth look like—and more importantly, how do you achieve it in today’s fast-moving, distraction-filled world? we share with you the keys behind the A.L.I.V.E. framework that has propelled MTI’s growth since 2007. Discover how a bold blend of engagement strategies, smart technology and willingness to take risk propelled MTI’s value to engage over 80% of their members into their key member touch points.

If you would like to watch the original UST webinar, CLICK HERE.

Creating NEW Non-Dues Revenue Through Sponsorships

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Every association is striving to ad greater value to suppliers and partners to create new or increased revenue from sponsorships. For many, this is a challenge. Don't miss this episode as Tom and Dave interview Bruce Rosenthol on the keys to driving non dues revenue through sponsorships and partnerships. Bruce unveils the creative ideas he unpacks in his new book on this very topic. Listen in and learn...

Forward Thinking Associations and AI Are Converging... Here's HOW!

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 09:58:00 -0400

In this episode, Tom and Dave have an in depth and engaging discussion with Robert Barnes, CEO of Betty AI on how forward thinking associations are capitalizing on AI to build value, engagement and connection in their associations. This is a must listen episode. Listen in...

Everything AI... Now and in the Future

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 09:54:59 -0400

In this episode, Tom and Dave have an engaging conversation with Meredith Ellison, Executive Director of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence. Tom, Dave and Meredith unpack where AI is headed, how it is impacting associations and their members and the possibilities surrounding AI. Listen in...

Driving Engagement Through Unlimited Educational Offerings

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:25:59 -0400

With the labor shortage being every association's #1 challenge for their members, education and training is the #1 need for members. Training drives productivity, efficiencies, lessens error rates and empowers employees to make good decisions in their job duties. In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Wade Tetsuka, President of UST and Founder of the Presidential Forum on the power and value of education and training in association business model.

Can You Say Freemium to Membership

Tue, 13 May 2025 10:54:01 -0400

As member needs and wants keep changing, so does membership models. Don't miss this episode as Tom and Dave interview Pat White and Nealy Wheat on the new Freemium membership model with the American Society of NonDestructive Testing.

Building the Association Value and Future With Vision, Boldness and Risk

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Matt Croson, President and CEO of the American Gear Manufacturers Association on how to build value and the future through vision, being bold and taking risk. Listen in...

Driving Value Through Innovation, Experimentation and Teams

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In this engaging session, Tom and Dave interviewing Eric O'Connor, Chief Innovation Officer of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology and unpack the strength of building the future of association innovation through experimentation and teams in a 65,000 member association. Listen in....

Everything Websites, Digital and Embracing the Future Through Innovation

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 14:16:56 -0400

Don't miss this dynamic conversation as Dave Will interviews Joanna Pineda, Chief Troublemaker and CEO of the Matrix Group. In this podcast Dave and Joanna breakdown the keys to the innovation in the digital age and how it connects to messaging, member value and engagement.

Impactful Member Value and Engagement Made Simple

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:31:00 -0500

This week, Tom and Dave, interview Michael Hoehn from the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer on how IASLC has focused its value and messaging on specific needs expressed by members. Michael shares how asking the right questions and listening for their specific needs has led to amazing engagement from their 9,000+ members. Listen in...

How to Drive Digital, Demo Days and Virtual Experiences

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:56:00 -0500

In this episode, Tom and Dave break down the keys to driving digital, demo days and virtual experiences that connect members, suppliers, value and content.

Leading With Emotion

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:53:00 -0500

In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Deborah Kemper from the San Mateo County Bar Association. Deborah breaks down how she taps into her member's emotions to drive value, engagement and volunteerism.

How to go Big and Balance Life

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 19:52:55 -0500

Hosts Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Garry Shapiro,, CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association. CTA produces the largest trade show is America, the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Gary shares the opportunities and challenges with leading incredible growth, getting it all done with a balance of life.

2025 and the Challenges Leading Associations

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 09:43:56 -0500

Listen in as Association Strong Hosts Tom Morrison and Dave Will share some of the key challenges facing associations, recap of some of the great guests in 2024 and the exciting content coming in 2025 from Association Strong.

Connecting the Dots of Innovation to Value and Engagement

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 10:27:14 -0400

WOW! Don't miss this episode of Association Strong podcast as Tom and Dave interview award winning CEO, Sheri Jacobs. She is founder and CEO of Avenue M Group. Sheri breakdown amazing research and methodologies on the do's and don't of maximizing value and engagement within associations.

Rev Up Your Association Engine by Engaging Your Board

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

It doesn't matter how talented the association CEO or staff is. If you have a dysfunctional board who isn't engaged, the board will stand in the way of progress, innovation and growth. Listen in as Tom and Dave interview Hardly Smith, author of the book, Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game. This book focuses on how to break the cycle of frustrating relationships and benefit from fully engaged board. Hardy Smith brings a wealth of knowledge from his time a NASCAR and advocating for nonprofits.

Strategic Engagement That Triples Your Revenue

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 20:20:46 -0400

All we can say is WOW on this one. How would you like to triple your revenues in your association in 5 years? Many might think that is impossible. However, our guest Todd Hauptli, CEO of the Association of American Airport Executives did just that. In 5 years he took AAAE from just over $30 million in revenues to over $100 million. No matter what size your association is, there are great take a ways in this episode. Listen in...

AI... Be A Friend or Be Afraid

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:26:11 -0400

AI is taking the association industry by storm. So may associations have concerns but many are jumping in and embracing the tools AI brings to make the impossible... possible. Tom Morrison and Dave Will have a very engaging and thought provoking conversation with Robert Barnes, CEO of Betty Bot, a leading AI technology provider in the association space. This is a must listen!

Communications That Connect and Engage

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 09:04:08 -0500

All we can say is WOW on this incredible episode. Tom Morrison & Dave Will interview Amber Worthen, Founder of ASW Communications on EVERYTHING communications and email. Amber unpacks the keys to email marketing, what to do, what not to do and how to frame messaging that gets action. Must listen for any association professional.

Just Imagine a Room of Top Association Podcasters? It Happened!

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 09:39:00 -0500

Don't miss this episode of Association Strong as Dave Will from PropFuel digs into everything podcasting with other well know podcasters in the association space.

Driving Engagement in the Midst of Leadership Transition

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 09:33:00 -0500

In this episode, Tom and Dave do a deep dive into how to drive and keep membership engagement high in the midst of leadership transition. Tom and Dave interview Michael DiFrisco CAE, Executive Director of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry shares his journey of member engagement after being promoted to Executive Director fo AACD after 10 years as Chief Marketing Director.

The Power Behind MemberSHIFT

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 17:03:00 -0500

In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Sarah Sladek, CEO of Sarah Sladek and Company to talk about her new best selling book MemberSHIFT. Sarah unpacks an array of trends, data and best practices on member value, recruitment and engagement.

Member Engagement That Rules

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:52:00 -0500

Tom and Dave score another winning member engagement interview with Russ Webb, CEO of the Bar Area Apartment Association. In this episode Russ unpacks how the engagement strategy their association when he was hired totally turned around their value proposition and grew membership and revenues at record levels. This episode has a lot of energy and inspiration!

AI... Be A Friend or Be Afraid

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:51:54 -0400

Don't miss this must hear episode as Tom and Dave interview Jay Owen, CEO of Business Builders, on everything AI! Jay is a leading expert on digital technology and shares what AI is, what it is not, how to use it effectively in associations and best practices.

How to Drive a Leadership Development Program That Sells Out 2 Years in Advance

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 09:52:00 -0400

One of the keys to success in any association is developing future leaders in both member companies as well as association volunteers. In 2007, the Metal Treating Institute launched its YES Executive Management Training Program. MTI's program has become one of the top management training programs in the association space and now sells out two years in advance. Tom Morrison, CEO of MTI and Dave Will interview Kyle Howlin and John Borneman from The Corps Group, who have been the facilitators of the YES program for MTI since 2009. Listen in as Tom, John and Kyle unpack the keys to leadership and how to create a successful training program that creates your future leaders.

Marketing in HUGE in Engagement Strategy

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 13:31:00 -0400

No matter how great your engagement strategy is, if you don't market or communicate it effectively, it is doomed for failure. In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Allegra Tasaki, Communications Director for the National Association of Bond Lawyers. In this episode, Tom, Dave and Allegra share the keys to having an effective communications strategy that drives your member engagement.

Member Engagement That Rocks!

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 13:28:00 -0400

In this episode, Tom and Dave hosts Kerri McGovern, Senior Director of Membership with the Association of Corporate Counsel. In this episode, Tom, Dave and Kerri discuss building an engagement strategy that hits the mark with meeting member needs and wants and how to sustain it long term.

Being Agile in Your Engagement Strategy

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 13:23:00 -0400

In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Jeff Rogan, Senior Director of Membership at the American Rental Association. In this episode, Tom, Dave and Jeff breakdown the key elements to having an engagement strategy that is agile and ever evolving in the world of rapid change.

Building Engagement Strategy That Works

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:19:00 -0400

In this episode of Association Strong's series on maximizing engagement, Tom and Dave host Pat White, Member Engagement Manager from the American Society of NonDestructive Testing. Tom, Dave and Pat do a deep dive into the key elements of what works and doesn't work in engaging members.

Driving Engagement Strategy for a Global Association

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:55:00 -0400

In this episode of Association Strong's series on maximizing engagement, Tom and Dave interview Keith Ellis, Chief Engagement & Growth Officer with the International Institute of Business Analyst. Tom, Dave and Keith dig into the keys to engagement strategy when you have a diverse group of member needs all across the globe.

Maximizing Engagement in a Medical Society

Tue, 02 May 2023 14:25:00 -0400

With the vast array of medical associations in any state, standing out among the competition takes an intentional and well thought out engagement strategy. In this episode, Tom and Dave interview Michell Laws from the North Carolina Medical Society on how they engage their members in a fast changing environment within the medical community.

Engagement That Rises Your Association Above the Competition

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 16:57:00 -0400

Does your association have multiple associations or competition that makes it tough to stand out? So many industries like construction, healthcare and manufacturing has exactly that. Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Mark Gedris, Vice President of Member Engagement at the Construction Management Association of America on how CMAA provides incredible value to collaborate and stand out among the competition in the construction industry.

Engagement That Grows From an Exchange Program to a Global Powerhouse

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:51:00 -0400

Taking your member engagement that turns your association into a powerhouse is not an easy under taking. It takes strategy, teamwork and execution. Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Edson Olds from the International Student Exchange Program on how ISEP transformed its engagement strategy to send over 60,000 students across the world in an immersive, life changing, study abroad program.

Turning Your Member Engagement Upside Down

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:46:00 -0400

Ever thought about turning your membership model upside down, converting members into investors and even doing away with your networking events? If not, you will not want to miss this session in our series on member engagement. Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Mark Field, Senior Vice President of Investor Development and Experience on how the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce did just that and experienced record growth.

Membership Engagement With Passion

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 16:40:00 -0500

Having a incredible vibe in your membership engagement strategy is what brings the secret sauce to your members that brings out their passion for the association. Don't miss this highly informative and inspiring session as Tom Morrison and Dave Will unpack the keys to member engagement at the Global Business Association from Christina Salu, Vice President of Membership.

Maximizing Engagement SOLVES Everything

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:32:03 -0500

Don't miss this highly informative episode as Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Amanda Kaiser on their latest study release on trends and best practices on maximizing member engagement. Amanda also unpacks key elements from her new best selling book on membership engagement.

Driving Revenue Through Sponsorships and Partnerships

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 13:18:46 -0500

As associations look for creative ideas to develop new funding and non-dues revenue sources, many overlook the opportunities sponsorships and partnership programs bring. Tom & Dave has a highly informative conversation with Bruce Rosenthal, a leader in helping associations drive innovation and value through sponsorships and partnerships. Don't miss this discussion.

Leadership That Drives Value, Engagement and Revenue

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

In today's associations change is happening at a hyper speed pace and demands on association professionals are coming at you from every angle. This speed of change demands effective leadership and communications to your board and membership to help them navigate the future. Tom and Dave discuss with Carrie Santos, CEO of Entrepreneur Organization on the keys to being the calm in the storm and living out your value that drives association brand loyalty and retention.

Association Digital Mindset That Drives Value and Revenue

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Associations who don't embrace a digital mindset for serving their members will quickly become irrelevant in the future. Fast paced change, demand for real time information and a new generation are all driving everything in an association to be provided digitally. Tom and Dave discuss the keys and steps to an effective digital transformation for any association in education, communication and member engagement.

Member Engagement That is Laser Focused in Member Needs

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Member relations plays a huge role in helping drive member value and engagement. Don't miss this very informative podcast as Tom Morrison and Dave Will discuss the power of member relations in association engagement with Anne Pritchett, Senior VP of Policy and Research with emphasis on Member Relations with PhRMA. Dave, Tom and Anne discuss how PhRMA connects their 33 members to their value proposition and over a hundred workgroups with industry issues and advocacy.

Creating Ambassador Programs That Drive Member Engagement

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 09:48:59 -0400

Designing an engagement strategy through members that drive membership engagement is every association's dream. Don't miss this podcast as Tom Morrison and Dave Will unpack the keys behind building a successful member ambassador program with Paul Walsh from the European Business Aviation Association on how their association designed an ambassador program that drove their brand, value and engagement.

The Labor Drought... What the Future Holds

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 12:46:00 -0400

The labor drought every association and the memberships are struggling with is causing a lot of heart ache in the growth outlook for the future. Top onto that the current trends on inflation and supply chain issues and the storm seems even worse. Don't miss this highly informative podcast as Tom and Dave talk with Ron Hetrick, Chief Labor Economist at EMSI, on the long term impact of labor trends coming out of the pandemic and the impact of inflation and supply chain issues. It is eye opening with a silver lining for the future.

The Resurgence of Meeting... What the Future Holds for Associations

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:16:00 -0400

This highly energetic episode of Association Strong features Tom and and Dave interviewing Mandi Graziano from the Hospitality Performance Network on the trends and resurgence of meetings in 2022 and beyond. Mandi is a long time meeting coach and professional planner. Tom, Dave and Mandi cover everything you can imagine on the meeting front including new ways meetings are launching, meeting attendance, new engagement strategies and how to leverage third parties and CVBs to maximize your budgets, attendance and meeting resources.

How Review Sites Will be a Game Changer for Associations

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 12:10:00 -0400

The likes of Yelp and Trip Advisor have been game changers in the B2C world of business. Associations have the potential to sit in the driver seat of the next phase of review sites focused on B2B and create new levels of sponsorship and non-dues revenues. In this episode, Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Teri Carden, Founder of 100 Reviews, the association industry's leading provider for review sites. Listen in as Tom, Dave and Teri unpack the future of review sites and what it means for associations.

Why Have an Online Community to Connect Members

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 15:22:00 -0500

If it is one area of communication that the COVID area exposed, it was the lack of online community. So many associations rely heavily on in-person meetings and connection. And rightly so. It is what many members want. But during COVID, associations had to think differently about engagement and connection. Online communities became a driving force for many to keep their members connected in a disconnected environment. Listen in as Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Ben Muscolino, President of Breezio, to hear the why, what and how to starting and driving an online community to maximize member engagement.

Building Community and Trust That Engages Members

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 12:01:00 -0500

It is one thing to have an online community. It is another to have vibrant activity built around trust within your community. Tom Morrison and Dave will interview Kiki Litalien, founder and creator of Association Chat, one of the association industry's most vibrant communities over the last 12 years on the keys to driving an online community.

Innovative Thinking Through Asking Your Members What They Want

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:19:00 -0500

One of the key elements in meeting members needs is through active listening. It is through active listening that you hear your member's pain points, which is where the highest value opportunities are. Listen in as Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview Guillermo Ortiz de Zarate, Chief Innovation and Information Officer for NCARB on how actively listening to members led them to creating a certification structure that drove value and engagement in their association.

Strategic Planning That Maximizes Value and Engagement

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 15:11:00 -0500

All value and engagement in associations point back to a strategic plan that aligns goals, action steps, metrics and execution that work together to create a vibrant association that is making a difference for their members. Strategy doesn't just happen. It happens through a methodical yet creative process that drives boards and state to innovate within the changes going on in your industry. Listen in as Tom Morrison and Dave Will interview one of the top facilitators and strategist in the association space, Lowell Aplebaum from Vista Cova on the keys to aligning strategy to value and engagement.

Driving Innovation Through Asking Your Members

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 01:51:00 -0500

A great speaker said, "Information is power. But the "feeling is the fuel." Find the feeling of your members and they will buy. Do you take the step to actually ask your members what they want... what their pain points are? This is where the greatest value exist... in asking. Or do you rely on your board to determine the value proposition with no member input.

In this week's podcast, Tom and Dave interview Garth Jordan from the American Animal Hospital Association to unpack how Garth led his board through the process of asking their members what they need and using a process like design thinking to help them to see the ideas and move forward with action that will drive your value proposition.

Driving Value Through Innovative Thinking

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 15:30:00 -0500

Wouldn't it be great if your association actually discovered that innovative piece of technology or service that transformed how your members get to do business? Think about if the taxi association had discovered the Uber technology or if the hospitality association had discovered AirBnB. Those industry associations would have sky rocketed in value to their members providing them new ways to do business. In today's podcast Tom and Dave interview an association who discovered the industry changing technology that transformed their industry and the association. Listen in as Tom and Dave talk connecting your members needs to innovative thinking with Brent McClendon, CEO of the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association.

Communication Strategy That Maximizes Engagement

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 14:46:52 -0500

With members being bombarded by content and associations having an unlimited supply of avenues to connect with members, having the right balance can be a huge challenge. To maximize your engagement, you need to clearly communicate your value proposition in a way that members hear it, feel it and act on it. In this episode of Association Strong, Tom and Dave interview Beth Arritt, Social Evangelist for Higher Logic to work through the keys to an effective communication strategy so you members hear your value proposition clearly, feel it and act on it.

In Person Events & Meaningful Relationships

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 12:08:07 -0400

In this week's episode of the Association Strong Podcast, Dave and Tom are joined by Jessica Levin, President of Seven Degrees and author of Perfect Pairings: The Art of Connecting People and Everyone Has Sh*t: Unsolicited Advice for Being Human. This week they're talking about getting back to in-person events and really taking networking from small talk to building true, meaningful connections.

Driving Value by Finding Your Uber

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

On this week's episode of Association Strong, Dave and Tom are joined by Mark Dorsey, CEO of the Construction Specification Institute. From the ski slopes with the Professional Ski Instructors of American and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors to leading CSI in innovative new ways, Mark challenges association professionals to find your Uber, that thing that puts you ahead of the curve and sets you up for a future of innovation within your organization.

Greatest Hits From the First 20 Episodes

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this week's edition of the Association Strong Podcast, Dave and Tom discuss their greatest hits and favorite hot topics from the past 20 episodes as well as some exciting new topics coming up for the podcast.

Where are the People

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week, Dave and Tom talk to Ron Hetrick, a published a renowned labor economist on the current (and future) labor shortages in the American workforce. With a growing number of Baby Boomers exiting the workforce, and a lack of adequate replacement from subsequent generations to follow in their footsteps, this is a can't miss conversation for associations and their members that will allow you to learn how to strategize moving forward through this labor shortage issue.

Building Your Association's Sale Value

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

This week, Tom and Dave are joined by author of renowned book, Built to Sell; John Warrillow. He breaks down 8 helpful considerations in building your association just like an entrepreneur would build a business that they hope to sell and how the "build to sell" strategy can correlate to a stronger association as well.

Work Life Balance in a Remote Work Environment

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode of the Association Strong podcast, Tom and Dave are joined by Amy Hemphill with ASAE to discuss how to help find that work-life balance especially in this post-COVID era where many people are still working remotely. While many people enjoy the flexibility that remote work brings, it also comes with it's own set of challenges such as defining the lines between your work life and your home life.

Maximizing Your Association Brand

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode Dave and Tom sit down with Design Extension's Jay Owen to talk about building your association's brand to really tell a story to your prospective members. From sales strategies to the movies, the world is drawn in by stories, and Jay teaches you some of the fundamentals you need to showcase your association as a story brand rather than just a sales pitch.

Association Technology

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode, Dave and Tom talk with David Coriale, President of DelCor Technology Solutions about how associations can use technology to help propel them into the future as well as what the difference really is between IT, CIO, and CTO.

Printing Money with CE

Tue, 25 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode of Association Strong, Dave and Tom have a conversation with CE and credentialing gurus, Keith and Adrienne Segundo of Limitless ASR. They discuss the importance and value of offering credentialing and continued education through your association as a means to not only boost non-dues revenue, but to add another layer of value for members.

Data Analytics

Tue, 11 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

On this week's episode of the Association Strong podcast, Tom and Dave sit down with Association Analytics CEO, Julie Sciullo to talk about data analytics and why they're crucial to the success of your organization. One of the key takeaways from this discussion is how to connect your streamlined data analytics with a human component to allow your organization to really discover trends and be able to align your work with what truly matters to your members and prospects.

Gauging and Meeting Member Needs

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Tom and Dave speak with Reggie Henry of ASAE on how to truly gauge and meet the needs of your membership both on the organizational and individual level. They will discuss how to marry the use of technology and the personal relationship to cultivate a member experience that helps an association create members-for-life through adapting and communicating to meet member needs at every turn.

Leading In a Time of Chaos

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

In this week’s episode, Tom and Dave dive into leadership in a time of chaos with industry maven, Michelle Mason of Association Forum. In this episode, she shares about navigating through the unpredictable, encouraging and engaging her team to rally through challenges, and what it means to pivot well. Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic last March, we have all experienced changes and curve-balls and Michelle and her team are no exception. They’re sharing what has helped them overcome these unprecedented times and plan ahead for the future.

Strategic Planning Leads to GROWTH

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

What do you think of when someone says the words “Strategic Plan”? Do you get excited or do you think of that document sitting on a shelf that was never implemented? Effective strategy should be the source and guide to any association about who they want to be and how they intend to get there. Tom Morrison’s association formalized their strategic plan in 2006 and have revisited it every two years since. It has created over 2,600% growth in their net reserves since 2006 giving the board the freedom financially to develop some very compelling value for the members. Listen in as Dave and Tom share how to connect strategy with needs, value, and engagement in your association.

Record Membership Growth Coming

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Did you know there are over 100 million people in the U.S. between the age of 9 and 34 as of 2021? This is exciting news because most people join associations in their early 30’s, so the future is bright for associations. Many people don’t recognize it, but demographics are one of the top influencers of the economy, and consumer buying habits as well as association membership. Demographics, or the counting of people, allows you to effectively predict many opportunities and challenges your association will face now and in the future. Don’t miss this episode as one of the leading demographers in America, Ken Gronbach joins Dave and Tom to openly discuss how the changing demographics of Baby Boomers, Gen-X, and Millennials are going to affect your association and the economy.

The New Culture With Remote Workplace

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0500

For years associations required staff to work from the office, even thought technology has greatly improved the opportunity of the work-from-anywhere strategy. With COVID taking shape over the last year, everyone is now finally figuring out that remote work actually works. However, to have the right culture, tools and workspace requires some thinking to ensure your office and employees have an efficient set of processes and communication to create effective workflow and member services. Dave and Tom, both who have created remote work for their companies discuss the key elements you need to successfully pull off a remote office work environment.

Digital Association Economy

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

If there is one thing COVID magnified in every association, it was the need for them to move into the digital age. Like many companies, associations have been resistant to jumping fully into the digital arena. The element of COVID forced every association to fully commit, and moving into digital brings on many new challenges and opportunities. Dave and Tom unpack the key elements to moving your association into the digital age and how to leverage it to maximize your value and engagement.

The Future - What's Next Post COVID-19

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0500

We're predicting the future! What will the working world be like post-COVID-19?

Listen as Dave and Tom make their predictions on the future of work, outline what will determine an organization's success, consider new security solutions for associations, and share how to attract and retain customers in this new world. Tom also shares 6 changes to expect in the coming year to give you a leg up.

Key Takeaways:

Where there is the most fear, there is the most opportunity.

There is a massive opportunity for associations to share hyper-personalized content with their members.

If you have a topic suggestion or just want to connect, reach out to Tom Morrison (the Seasoned Association Exec) at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave Will (the Entrepreneur) at Dave@propfuel.com

Building a Culture of Innovation

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 04:30:00 -0500

What are the characteristics of an organization that thrives in innovation? Does your organization have a culture of innovation?

Dave Will and Tom Morrison talk about culture, sailing, and terrible book names, spaghetti. You’ll learn about creating a deliberate culture, business strategies to drive innovation, and the questions you need to answer about your business.

If you have a topic suggestion or just want to connect, reach out to Tom Morrison (the Seasoned Association Exec) at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave Will (the Entrepreneur) at Dave@propfuel.com

Data - Contextual Data vs Transactional/Behavioral Data

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 10:58:17 -0500

Our first guest episode on Association Strong! Dave and Tom are joined by software developer Sigmund VanDamme, the founder of Nimble User (now Nimble AMS) and GoJectory. In this episode, they discuss the differences between contextual, transactional, and behavioral data. Learn about which types of data are most valuable for growing your association and providing the right offerings to your current audience.

If you have a topic you'd like to hear us talk about or just want to connect, reach out to Tom Morrison at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave Will at dave@propfuel.com

Engagement Part 2: Tactical Methods of Engagement

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 04:36:00 -0500

Let's get down to it: how are we actually getting members to do stuff? Dave and Tom discuss how to comprehensively identify what your members need, whether surveys really work, and which strategic engagement tools work best.

Check out the Prop Fuel blog to learn more: https://www.propfuel.com

If you have a topic suggestion or just want to connect, reach out to Tom Morrison (the Association Exec) at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave Will (the Entrepreneur) at dave@propfuel.com

Engagement Part 1: Make Your Engagement Come A.L.I.V.E.

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 04:35:00 -0500

Engagement is such a broad topic that we needed two episodes to talk about it. In part one, you'll learn about the different types of members that exist within your organization, techniques to drive more engagement, and how to make your engagement come A.L.I.V.E.! Listen as Dave and Tom debate the best engagement tactics and where you can create the most value for your members.

If you have a topic suggestion or just want to connect, reach out to Tom Morrison (the Association Executive) at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave Will (the Entrepreneur) at dave@propfuel.com

The Revenue Episode

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 04:32:00 -0500

Show me the money!

In this episode, you'll learn to make the most of the dollars you have and keep 'em coming. Dave (the Entrepreneur) and Tom (the Association Executive) talk about budgets, how much should be allocated to reserves (or burn money), the benefits of offering certification programs, and budget strategies that can direct the future of your association.

If you have a topic recommendation or just want to connect, reach out to Tom Morrison at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave Will at dave@propfuel.com

Creating Passion for Your Association

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 04:31:00 -0500

If you have passion for your association you're running downhill in the association contest. Without passion, you have apathy. Dave Will (the Entrepreneur) and Tom Morrison (the Association Executive) talk about how you can build passion for your association, why it's important, and the best and worst methods that Dave and Tom have seen.

If you have a topic that you'd like to hear Dave and Tom talk about or just want to connect, reach out to us! Contact Tom via email at tom@tommorrison.biz or Dave at dave@propfuel.com

Welcome!

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 09:07:54 -0500

Welcome to Association Strong! We offer insight from both a seasoned Association Exec and an Entrepreneur. Tom Morrison and Dave Will discuss and debate hot topics in the association community every other week. You will learn about new trends and gain inspiration that will help you drive value and engagement, and run an efficient and effective association like a business.