Best Practices

Ep 96: Transparency and Accountability – Helping Organizations Thrive

By association40 | July 5, 2024

Artificial intelligence is certainly top of mind for association leaders and board members. That’s why we are delighted to feature .orgSource Consultant, Sue Dykema, on today’s episode. Sue has over 27 years of experience working as CEO and in various managerial positions at the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and is an expert in guiding organizations to achieve strategic objectives. Her esteemed track record and deep roots in the association industry bring a unique perspective that we can all learn from to find efficient solutions and make wise decisions.

In this episode, Sue emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in associations to build trust and a positive culture for members. In addition, she discusses how board members can determine when artificial intelligence can be leveraged for tasks and when a human perspective is needed instead. Lastly, Sue shared her thoughts on how associations can reimagine governance in light of the shifting digital landscape.

All in all, Sue highlighted that technology is a tool to build productivity and associations need to be wise when incorporating it into their organizations. Listen in to learn how!

To get in touch with Sue, please email sue@orgsource.com or sherry@orgsource.com.

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Ep 94: We are the Source of Truth Again

By association40 | June 8, 2024

Despite the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and virtual services, a recent study found that students and younger generations are eager to attend in-person meetings and serve on committees. This is exciting news for associations and nonprofits as they look to the future to determine what value they can bring for members.

According to Senior Vice President of Digital and Technology at the American Geophysical Union, Thad Lurie, CAE, CIP, more and more people are hesitant to trust everything they read or see online and are seeking trustworthy sources to help answer their questions. This is where associations and nonprofits come in to help cut through the noise. The beautiful thing about these organizations is that they bring people together in a way that other businesses can’t because they can be a guiding entity that provides advice, resources, education, and camaraderie. While the digital landscape will continue to become more complex, trust by association is something organizations can look forward to.

With over 25 years of experience in IT and technology, Thad Lurie offers sound advice for analyzing data, choosing the right types of artificial intelligence, and strategies boards can do to become more successful. Listen in!

To get in touch with Thad Lurie, connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thadlurie/

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Ep 93: Moving Beyond Water Cooler Conversations

By association40 | May 24, 2024

In honor of Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are delighted to have association legend, Richard Yep, CAE, FASAE, on the Association 4.0 Podcast. His 40+ years of experience working in the association world has truly made him an expert in understanding the current trends in digital transformation and artificial intelligence and how they can be applied to organizations. Yep is currently in the midst of writing a book that discusses the transition of bouncing off ideas with coworkers by the office water cooler, to turning to AI for advice.

A lifestyle change is evident in Yep’s eyes. For associations to remain relevant, they must understand how to maximize the potential of AI and how they can use it to improve their organization without losing their special sense of community and camaraderie.

Are the days of knocking on your CEO’s door for help long gone? Let’s find out in this wisdom-packed episode.

To get in touch with Richard Yep, email: Richard.k.yep@gmail.com

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Ep 92: Offering Value Beyond the Membership

By association40 | May 11, 2024

In a landscape where information, education, and association are increasingly accessible at little to no cost, organizations must pivot towards offering value that extends beyond mere access. However, innovation can be difficult to achieve for non-equity based organizations that don’t have 50 million dollars at their disposal. Our guest, Stephanie Mercado, Executive Director and CEO at the National Association for Healthcare Quality, suggests that associations focus on building strong communities (virtual or in-person) where members can collaborate, exchange ideas, and support each other, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose that goes beyond what can be found in the vast sea of online resources.

Furthermore, Mercado encourages organizations to take the time to nurture their own employees and engage in yearly team bonding events. Her staff has seen an immense improvement in connection and productivity because of their heightened ability to work together collaboratively. Ultimately, staying relevant in a world of abundant free resources requires organizations to evolve into dynamic hubs of value creation, where expertise, community, and personalized experiences take center stage. Tune in to learn more.

You can follow Stephanie Mercado on LinkedIn or visit https://nahq.org.

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Ep 91: That’s So Fundamentally Human

By association40 | April 27, 2024

This episode of the Association 4.0 Podcast reveals a truth that practically everyone can relate to. The interest in networking and in person connection has never been more prominent than it is today in this post-COVID, technology-driven, world. That’s good news for associations and nonprofits, according to our guest, Kim Robinson, President of Frontline Co.

The demand for finding and connecting with like-minded people is only going to become more prevalent over the next few years. People appreciate in-person activities because of the isolation they’ve experienced during the pandemic and are craving human connection, says Robinson. This is how associations and nonprofits play such a huge role during this societal transition.

With their ability to bring industry professionals together over a common goal or interest, it’s clear the impact of associations and nonprofits isn’t dwindling anytime soon. Tune into this episode to learn more about opportunities for associations to engage their target audiences, how nonprofits can leverage artificial intelligence, and whether or not advocacy should be on an organization’s mind. Listen in!

To learn more about Kim Robinson and her team, visit https://frontlineco.com

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Ep 90: Computers Just Don’t Make Mistakes

By association40 | April 13, 2024

Think of AI as a highly intelligent coworker or partner. It can help us create. It can help us predict. It can help us understand. It can help us see the hidden. While artificial intelligence can help elevate associations in numerous ways, our guest, David Reid, Owner of Strategic and Consulting Services, suggests that the software needs to be regulated and monitored by the right people. With a strong background working in the IT department for companies like AT&T, AmeriTek, and NASA, we’d say Mr. Reid knows a thing or two about this subject.

For the CEO’s sitting at their desks, looking at their associations wondering how in the world they are going to incorporate AI into their strategic plans, fear not, this episode is for you. In truth, the reality is that artificial intelligence isn’t coming…it’s here. According to Reid, you don’t really have a lot of time to wait and see where this AI thing is going. So don’t stand with your feet on the ground because the train is moving on. Tune in to this vibrant discussion to learn more about generative AI and how to leverage its knowledge in your organization or business.

To get in touch with David Reid, please email david@reid-iba.com.

Links from this episode:

Artificial Intelligence | 60 Minutes

https://youtu.be/aZ5EsdnpLMI?si=L0z-ZmJLMOyuuriJ

What is generative AI and how does it work? – The Turing Lectures with Mirella Lapata

https://youtu.be/_6R7Ym6Vy_I?si=awGCLalAVPBRaEjW

Figure Status Update – OpenAI Speech-to-Speech Reasoning

https://youtu.be/Sq1QZB5baNw?si=cpHaHv-qbRddzOkv

Compare the big 3 AI models

https://youtu.be/ELMDugD5dCA?si=IL_pH77Suy353FgK

Introducing DBRX: A New State-of-the-Art Open LLM

https://www.databricks.com/blog/introducing-dbrx-new-state-art-open-llm

Alignment problems (Robert Miles)

https://youtu.be/bJLcIBixGj8?si=ilWk2QtLhLFvP0Vr

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Ep 89: Leading is Not a Mission. Leading is a Result of Doing Something Excellent.

By association40 | March 30, 2024

It’s all too common for organizations to use the word “lead” in their mission statement. While this isn’t a negative quality to highlight, Garth Jordan, CEO of the American Animal Hospital Association, and Sharon Rice, Managing Director of Business Strategy at .orgSource, urges associations to think twice before using that word in their mission statements.

In their experience, organizations are more successful if they focus their energy on the value they provide to their members and consumers rather than using a catchy word to create a certain image. To members, value might mean how much “stuff” they get with their membership. However, with the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, member-benefits like magazines or newsletters, may lose their luster over time.

This refreshing conversation redefines what true leadership means in associations and how they can go beyond the material value of a membership and create a lasting, positive impact on society and for the greater good. Listen in!

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Ep 88: AI Unleashed: Real-World Solutions and Results in Today’s Associations

By association40 | March 16, 2024

Join us for an enlightening journey into the heart of how contemporary associations are harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive unprecedented change and efficiency. “AI Unleashed: Real-World Solutions and Results in Today’s Associations” is an enriching conversation tailored for association leaders, technology enthusiasts, and innovation strategists. Our esteemed panelists are Jason Wampler, Senior Information Technology Executive of the International Society of Automation, Luke Vidacovich, Director of IT and Digital Strategy at the American Animal Hospital Association, and Brian Willard, Director of IT for the CCIM Institute.

From membership engagement, personalized communication, to data-driven decision-making, learn how associations of various sizes and sectors have effectively implemented AI solutions.

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Ep 87: To Invest Or Not To Invest In AI

By association40 | March 2, 2024

To invest in AI or not? That is the question so many associations face. While artificial intelligence may seem innovative and technologically advanced, organizations need to think hard about whether it’s the right move for their company.

Too often, our guest, Joseph Knecht, CEO of Proteus, sees associations fail after throwing everything they have into AI or a new software system. In their mind, investing in a new software should solve all their problems because it’s the “digital era.” However, Knecht suggests that associations become more “strategy-minded rather than software-minded” and to focus more on the needs of their customers or members.

“Know your customers and what they need from you and equip yourself with the right infrastructure to do that. In that order,” says Knecht.

It’s time to stop blaming marketing or another department for any low registration numbers and to start understanding what values your members seek from your organization and create a solid business model that reflects that.

Tune in to this wisdom-packed episode to learn more about how to leverage AI more effectively and tips to build an organization that will last for years to come. To learn more about Joseph Knecht and his company, visit https://www.proteus.co or email Knecht directly at jknecht@proteus.co.

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Ep 86: We Don’t Have Conversations Like We Used To

By association40 | February 16, 2024

In the hot seat this week, is North Carolina Association of CPA’s Chief Operating Officer, Mark Soticheck. Mark weaves his extensive experience in accounting to this enlightening conversation with .orgSource’s CEO/Founder, Sherry Budziak. Together, they discuss how Artificial Intelligence has impacted their organizations, the potential demise of bookkeeping in associations, and when to unlearn any bad habits acquired over the last few years and reestablish new boundaries, new guides, and new ways of working together.

One of the simplest and most effective ways the NCACPA overcomes the challenges of communicating with their team, is by ensuring each person has their camera turned on during zoom meetings. This helps everyone become more intentional about their time and encourages their team to problem solve together.

Listen in to this episode to hear how Mark and his team create a balance between innovation and stability and to be reminded of the importance of being curious about what you’re doing and how you’re doing it.

To learn more about Mark Soticheck and his organization, visit https://www.ncacpa.org or get in touch with Mark directly at msoticheck@ncacpa.org.

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Ep 85: Punks and Pinstripes

By association40 | February 2, 2024

Let’s face it. Most professionals in the world enjoy being liked. While being admired isn’t a bad thing, it could lead organizations to settle for the status quo again and again. In order for progress to be made, our guest, international keynote speaker, best-selling author, and CEO/Founder of “Punks and Pinstripes,” Greg Larkin, encourages the professional “punks” to rise up.

Many associations struggle with advancing their organizations, whether it’s a fear of rejection from their board or an aversion to the chaos when implementing new programs, change is hard. That’s why change was made for the “hard core” folks AKA the “punks.”

Greg Larkin has founded his business, “Punks and Pinstripes” on the belief that opposition is validation, and that outlier perspective makes “punks” uniquely capable of solving hard problems. We’re so excited for you to listen to Greg’s impactful tips for innovation and learn how to embrace the qualities that make you different in an organization. Let’s be punk on purpose!

You can connect with Greg Larkin on his LinkedIn page, join the www.punksandpinstripes.com community, read his internationally best-selling book, “This Might Get Me Fired,” or watch some of his talks with the .orgCommunity.

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Ep 82: Strategies and Advice for Future Success for Leaders and the Like

By association40 | December 16, 2023

Business, regardless of whether you’re in the profit or nonprofit sector, is fundamentally about people. An association’s employees and board members play a crucial role to the health of the organization and its future success. Finding and attracting the right people can prove to be a difficult challenge, especially in today’s fast-paced digital market.

Our guests, Don Dea, Co-Founder of Fusion Productions and digitalNow, and his son, Al Dea, Founder of Edge of Work, sat down with us to discuss how leaders can be better listeners, tips to attracting top talent, and the most effective ways to encourage a team to do their best work.

“If you did your job in terms of bringing the right people on the bus, you have to make sure they are in the right seats,” says Don.

Get ready to challenge assumptions, spark creativity, and invite exploration in this thought-provoking episode of the Association 4.0 Podcast. Listen in!

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Ep 81: The Blueprint for Success – A Proven Framework for Driving Certification Revenue

By association40 | December 1, 2023

Welcome to episode 81 with this week’s inspiring guest, Ashish Rangnekar, CEO/Co-Founder of BenchPrep. Sherry Budziak, Founder/CEO of .orgSource discovered the inside scoop into his wildly successful company. BenchPrep is proud to be the world’s first exam prep mobile app for iPhone. Since 2009, the app has transformed into a Learning Management System trusted by the world’s leading associations and credentialing organizations. In fact, Ashish and his team recently celebrated their app serving professionals in more than 50 countries with over 10 million learners!

This enlightening conversation dives into the history of BenchPrep, the importance and growing popularity of continuing education, and features a sneak peak of Ashish’s recent webinar with .orgCommunity. To watch the full webinar, visit https://videos.orgcommunity.com/mastering-revenue-growth-a-strategic-framework-for-your-certification-training-program. Don’t miss Ashish and Sherry’s ideas for growth and how to increase revenue using a strategic framework for educational programs. Listen in!

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Ep 80: Unlocking the Executive Mindset with Donna Gandt of Impexium

By association40 | November 13, 2023

Join us in this insightful episode as I sit down with Donna Gandt, Chief Revenue Officer at Impexium, a leading force in empowering associations through streamlined membership management solutions. In today’s conversation, Donna and I delve into a topic close to .orgSource’s heart—cultivating the executive mindset within your team. We explore the essence of “thinking like an executive” and the profound impact it can have on both individuals and organizations.

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights from Donna’s wealth of experience and expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or aspiring to develop your team, this episode provides actionable strategies for fostering a culture of executive thinking within your organization.

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Ep 79: The important role for AI functionality in the learning environment with Robb Rabito

By association40 | October 28, 2023

Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Robb Rabito, the Senior Director of Program Development at the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST). Robb wears many hats, overseeing education, program creation, instructional design, accreditation, and online learning, all in the pursuit of advancing healthcare and professional development.

Discover how CHEST is at the forefront of empowering healthcare professionals with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their fields. Robb Rabito shares insights into the organization’s work and the profound impact they have on the world of chest medicine. Whether you’re a healthcare practitioner or simply curious about the ever-evolving world of medical education, this episode is a must-listen.

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