Podcast

Dean West, CEO of Association Laboratory, highlights the importance of understanding attendees’ motivations for event participation. His team focuses on eliminating unnecessary elements to deliver targeted programming that engages attendees, emphasizing active learning over logistics to create engaging experiences.

Deedre Daniel, founder of The Interesting Conversations Company, discusses overcoming digital distractions and fostering connections. Having left her corporate job, she emphasizes making life more engaging than cell phones. Deedre highlights the need for training on how to be more interesting and capturing people’s attention.

Dave Will, co-founder and CEO of PropFuel, addresses the importance of effective member communication on the 6 Degrees of Associations Podcast. He highlights that communication should focus on building relationships, rather than relying on one-way methods often used by associations through emails and social media. He encourages associations to prioritize listening.

Ioannis Pallas, Managing Director of ESAE, shares insights on association life in Europe and North America. He highlights best practices, strategies for attracting younger members, and reflections from the recent ASAE 2024 meeting. The conversation also addresses revenue diversification and the effectiveness of DEIA initiatives and sustainability efforts on both sides of the Atlantic.

Rich Vallaster III, CEM, DES, Senior Director at Personify, emphasizes technology’s role in enhancing member engagement and event experiences, especially for younger members seeking in-person interactions post-Covid. Rich highlights the value of data-driven insights for customizing events to meet diverse needs and is known for his innovative strategies.

John Bode, President & CEO of the Corn Refiners Association, emphasizes the role of associations in influencing policies. He highlights CRA’s efforts to address challenges in the corn refinement industry and his vision for growth in a changing landscape. Bode stresses the importance of anticipating emerging issues and building a knowledgeable team for success.

Damita Snow, CAE, discusses the future of scholarly publishing in associations and her role in promoting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). She emphasizes the importance of listening to member needs, creating equitable systems for diverse audiences, and providing resources for change in the evolving landscape of scholarly publishing.

Terri Herrmann, the CMO of Forj, discusses her entrepreneurial journey and her commitment to enhancing member experiences through innovative solutions. She emphasizes the significance of member-led content and mentorship in keeping associations relevant amidst changing priorities.

Professor Glen Kreiner, discusses leadership identity and its effect on organizations. He emphasizes understanding personal strengths in leadership to build authentic connections and addresses mental health awareness. Glen shares strategies for fostering a supportive environment prioritizing mental health and self-awareness to enhance organizational culture.