Podcast

Read more about the article Member Value Reimagined: Launching a Freemium Model that Works

Member Value Reimagined: Launching a Freemium Model that Works

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, we launch our Member Value Reimagined series with a bold and inspiring story from the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT). Host Meghan Henning sits down with Pat White, Director of Membership, and Nealy Wheat, Chief Financial & Administrative Officer, to explore how ASNT broke the mold—replacing a traditional dues-based model with a freemium structure that’s already delivering surprising results. From board buy-in to cross-team collaboration, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how associations can challenge the status quo, grow their reach, and still drive revenue—without sacrificing value.

Continue ReadingMember Value Reimagined: Launching a Freemium Model that Works
Read more about the article The Association PR Toolkit—Smart, Strategic, and Actually Doable

The Association PR Toolkit—Smart, Strategic, and Actually Doable

In this solo episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher, CEO of OnWrd & UpWrd, walks through the essential tools every association needs in their PR playbook. From mapping out the right stories to building the right press list—and pitching them to the right people—this is your tactical, honest, and refreshingly practical guide to PR that works. Get ready for a fast-moving, tip-packed episode designed to help you build visibility, credibility, and momentum—on your terms.

Continue ReadingThe Association PR Toolkit—Smart, Strategic, and Actually Doable
Read more about the article Making Awareness Days Work: A Smart Strategy for Associations

Making Awareness Days Work: A Smart Strategy for Associations

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.

Continue ReadingMaking Awareness Days Work: A Smart Strategy for Associations
Read more about the article A True Video Partner: Rethinking Storytelling at Your Association

A True Video Partner: Rethinking Storytelling at Your Association

In 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.

Continue ReadingA True Video Partner: Rethinking Storytelling at Your Association
Read more about the article Communicating What Matters: A Roundtable Replay

Communicating What Matters: A Roundtable Replay

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 Institute Sean 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.

Continue ReadingCommunicating What Matters: A Roundtable Replay
Read more about the article Leading Across Borders: Lessons in Global Alignment, Agility, and Advocacy

Leading Across Borders: Lessons in Global Alignment, Agility, and Advocacy

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.

Continue ReadingLeading Across Borders: Lessons in Global Alignment, Agility, and Advocacy
Read more about the article From BeccaBot to Better Member Experience: Using AI to Drive Value

From BeccaBot to Better Member Experience: Using AI to Drive Value

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.

Continue ReadingFrom BeccaBot to Better Member Experience: Using AI to Drive Value