
The Association Podcast
Jake Toohey (Adage Technologies), Gretchen Steenstra (DelCor) and Ben Muscolino (Breezio and AMS Geek) bring you The Association Podcast. With a combined five decades of experience in the association tech space, they explore challenges facing associations and bring fresh ideas to address them using strategy, design, analytics, and technology.
Latest episodes

Oct 16, 2023 • 48min
Managing Enterprise Systems with a Small Staff with Angela Melle, CCUFC
On this episode of The Association Podcast, Angela Mell, Senior Director of Communications and Education at the Louisiana Credit Union League, shares her journey in the credit union space, the transition from Google Groups to a new community platform, and the challenges faced in adopting new technology. We also discuss the importance of listening to member needs, prioritizing technology initiatives, and delegating responsibilities.

Sep 25, 2023 • 38min
Part 2: A Discussion About Gaps in the Association Market with Wes Trochlil
The Association Podcast welcomes Wes Trochlil back to the show for a great conversation about holes in the association market. In part 2 of this conversation, we discuss the integration and fundraising challenges associations have. We look at difficulties in justifying investments in expensive technology for small fundraising efforts, the risks of straying from an association's mission, and the importance of integrating systems for efficient data management. We also get into topics such as credentialing, certifications, ecommerce, membership engines, and communication tools within associations.

Sep 19, 2023 • 42min
Part 1: A Discussion About Gaps in the Association Market with Wes Trochlil
The Association Podcast welcomes back Wes Trochlil to the show for a great conversation about holes in the association market. In part 1 of the conversation, we get into the importance of training and ongoing professional development in the association industry and the challenges of implementing new software. We also discuss the effectiveness of the "train the trainer" model, the importance of continuous improvement and investment in software systems, and the concept of "guardrails" in project management and budgeting, emphasizing the need for clear boundaries and effective communication.

Aug 29, 2023 • 28min
From Networking to Collaborating: Recapping ASAE Annual 2023
Jake, Ben, and Gretchen discuss their experiences at ASAE Annual 2023 on this episode of The Association Podcast. We discuss the shift in focus from socializing to networking with prospects and customers and share our personal highlights and challenges from the conference, including the importance of creating a welcoming environment for new attendees. We also get into the evolving nature of the industry and the impact of new technologies, particularly AI.

Jul 11, 2023 • 45min
Leveraging Data, Personalization, and AI to Revolutionize Marketing for Associations with Matthew Montoya
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we have Matthew Montoya, Senior Channel Marketing and Enablement Manager at Constant Contact. Matthew shares his background and how he got involved with Constant Contact through the association space and discusses the evolution of email marketing, including the use of generative AI. We talk about the importance of personalizing content and leveraging generative AI, particularly for smaller staff organizations, and discuss the value of relevancy in email marketing and the potential revenue tied to each contact.

Jun 16, 2023 • 46min
How Associations Can Prepare for Economic Uncertainty with Bill Conerly
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we have an interview with Economist, Consultant, and Senior Contributor at Forbes, Bill Conerly, who has written about the impact of a recession on associations and trade shows. We discuss the challenges associations face in predicting revenue and staying in touch with members, particularly those who are not regular attendees. We also get into the importance of cultivating data around members and staying in touch with them to understand their business needs and potential impact on revenue. Our conversation also covers the potential impact of a recession on membership in associations, programming, AI, and hybrid events.

May 16, 2023 • 55min
The Diamond in the End is Worth the Pressure in the Process with Ron Mark Moen
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Ron Mark Moen, CIO of the American Society for Clinical Pathology. We discuss the role of CIOs in the association market, the qualities that make a good CIO, and how to bridge the gap between technical teams and the business side of an organization. We also get into the challenges of adopting new technology, the importance of empathy and expertise in serving customers, and the importance of feedback, integrity, and transparency in building high-performing teams.

May 7, 2023 • 1h 8min
Revolutionizing Associations and Their Boards: Flaws in the System & the Impact of AI with Jeff De Cagna
On this episode of The Association Podcast, governance expert Jeff De Cagna discusses the need for association boards to become more active and intentional in guiding their organizations into the future. We discuss the flaws in the current system of association boards and the need for them to adapt to changing circumstances. The conversation also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on board decision-making and the introduction of generative AI into the system. Jeff emphasizes the importance of having a thoughtful conversation about the implications of technology use in associations and staying objective when exploring new technologies. Check out the links below for more from Jeff!Jeff's Articles on AuthoryJeff's LinkedIn ProfileJeff's April 4 Open Letter on Generative AIRegister for Jeff's May 10 session on Generative AI (Association staff only)

May 1, 2023 • 45min
Staying Ahead of the Curve: Embracing Technology and Trends in Marketing Automation with Dave Caruso
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Dave Caruso, Co-Founder, President, and CRO of HighRoad Solution, to hear about his background and the evolution of HighRoad from an email marketing provider to their current focus on marketing automation strategy and integrations. We discuss the importance of channel strategy, building integrations and partnerships with other companies in the industry, and the need for companies to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and trends to provide the best possible experience for their customers. We also touch on the concerns surrounding the rapid adoption of AI and the importance of human intervention in its use.

Apr 11, 2023 • 46min
Does Your Association Need a Podcast...or Two? with Colby Horton & Frank Humada
On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Colby Horton and Frank Humada from Association Briefings to discuss how your association can use podcasts to reach their specific audience segments. Colby and Frank share tips for creating a great podcast for your association to spread industry expertise and reach emerging professionals to help them learn and engage with your organization.www.associationbriefings.com