x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

MSAE Insight

Michigan Society of Association Executives

An original podcast series from the Michigan Society of Association Executives where we explore the creative solutions achieved by associations navigating today’s turbulent business, regulatory, and social landscapes and the people who lead them.

business non-profit

All Episodes

17:54

Advocacy That Works: Building Bipartisan Bridges with...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/11/20

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus sits down with Melissa McKinley, President of Kelley Cawthorne, to explore what effective advocacy looks like in today’s polarized political landscape. Melissa shares why bipartisan strategies are more important than ever and highlights the unique influence associations bring to legislative work. She also reflects on her own career path, the role mentorship has played in her growth, and offers practical guidance for emerging leaders in the government

en

25:51

Resilience, Creativity, and the Art of Association...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/10/27

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus sits down with Jean Jernigan, CAE, CMP, IOM, President of the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Board for the Michigan Society of Association Executives. Jean reflects on her long-standing involvement with MSAE since 1996, her diverse career path, and the leadership roles that have shaped her journey. The conversation explores member engagement, mentorship, and the impact of community-building initiatives—including the She Leads program

en

23:11

Grassroots Power: How Big I Michigan Supports Agents

MSAE Insight ·

2025/09/24

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus welcomes Jared Burkhart, CAE, CEO of Big I Michigan. Jared shares how his association advocates for insurance agents, supports their professional growth, and strengthens local communities. The discussion explores the impact of AI on the industry, the challenges of rising insurance costs, and why community-based agents remain so essential. Jared also reflects on his career path and highlights the power of grassroots advocacy in helping members navigate

en

30:44

Driving Impact: How Golf Fuels Michigan’s Economy and...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/08/21

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus sits down with Jada Paisley, CMP, executive director of the Michigan Golf Course Association. Jada shares how the organization supports golf course owners and operators while highlighting the industry’s $6 billion economic impact in Michigan—including $1 billion tied to tourism. Despite being a seasonal state, Michigan ranks fourth nationally in golf tourism. The conversation also explores workforce development efforts like the state’s first registered

en

26:20

Reimagining the Michigan CPA: Innovation, Advocacy,...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/07/17

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus chats with Bob Doyle, president and CEO of the Michigan Association of CPAs and MSAE board member. Bob shares his unique career journey from engineering to association leadership and offers a look into the mission and work of MICPA—from advocacy and education to building community among CPAs. The conversation also covers how the CPA profession is evolving, including Michigan’s new licensure pathway and the growing importance of embracing AI and

en

20:04

Big Hearts, Big Impact: Advancing Early Education in...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/06/12

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus welcomes Erica Willard, CAE, executive director of the Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children. Erica shares her journey in early childhood education and highlights Michigan AEYC’s mission to support high-quality learning from birth through age eight. With nearly 4,000 members, the organization focuses on policy, professional development, and advocacy. Erica discusses challenges like undercompensation, key initiatives like the Big Hearts

en

24:30

Packaging Smarter: Balancing Protection and...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/05/22

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus sits down with A.J. Gruber, President and CEO of the International Safe Transit Association (ISTA). A.J. shares how his roots in packaging science at Michigan State University and his early career at UPS led him to champion innovation in transit packaging. Together, they delve into the vital role packaging plays in the global supply chain—especially with the rise of e-commerce—and the growing pressure to balance product protection with environmental

en

18:29

Leading Through Change: The Evolution of the Michigan...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/05/07

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus welcomes Joanne Misuraca, CEO of the Michigan Mortgage Lenders Association (MMLA). Joanne shares the rich history of the MMLA, which began in 1929, and how the organization has evolved to reflect industry shifts and a broader, more inclusive membership. She also reflects on her personal journey, from becoming the association’s first full-time employee in 1995 to helping shape it into what it is today. Joanne gives listeners a look inside the MMLA’s

en

20:58

Honoring Tradition: The History and Future of MFDA...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/03/27

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus sits down with Phil Douma, executive director of the Michigan Funeral Directors Association (MFDA). Phil shares the rich history of MFDA, founded in 1880, and its pivotal role in shaping the National Funeral Directors Association. He also reflects on his personal journey to becoming Executive Director, inspired by the loss of his father and his career in funeral services and policy. The conversation covers MFDA’s services, including the master escrow

en

21:09

Empowering Michigan’s Workforce: The Impact of...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/02/26

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus chats with Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works Association, about the organization's role in strengthening workforce development across the state. Ryan shares his transition from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to leading Michigan Works during the pandemic, as well as key initiatives like the Business Solutions Professional certification and partnerships with schools for career exploration. He also discusses advocacy efforts, the

en

19:46

Mentorship Matters: Investing in Innovation with Ara...

MSAE Insight ·

2025/01/16

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel sits down with Ara Topouzian, executive director of the Michigan Venture Capital Association, to explore the critical role of venture capital in driving startup success. Ara delves into Michigan's growing tech scene, the impact of economic development organizations, and the association's initiatives like the Venture Fellows Program, which champions diversity and inclusion. He also addresses common misconceptions about venture capital, shares insights into the

en

18:05

Pouring Success: Advocating for Michigan’s Beer &...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/12/17

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel sits down with Spencer Nevins, President of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, to explore the vital work of representing 43 Michigan-based beer and wine wholesalers. Spencer shares insights into Michigan’s booming craft beer and wine industry, the role of advocacy and legal efforts, and the ongoing challenges around talent recruitment and infrastructure. He also explains the significance of the state’s bottle bill and the three-tier

en

19:45

Preserving Tradition: Growing Membership with Amy Start

MSAE Insight ·

2024/11/26

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel sits down with Amy Start, Executive Director of the Michigan Christmas Tree Association, to explore strategies for member recruitment and retention. Amy shares the rich 72-year history of the association, highlights its member benefits like the industry journal and biannual meetings, and discusses key challenges such as attracting new members and addressing retirements among veteran farmers. As a bonus, Amy offers expert tips on selecting the perfect Christmas

en

27:48

Building Leaders: Professional Development and...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/10/22

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel speaks with Wendy Zdeb, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP), about the critical role of professional development and mentorship within the association space. Wendy highlights how MASSP supports its members by offering over 200 events annually and expanding its mentorship program to include formal training for new administrators, ensuring they have the tools needed for success in their leadership roles.This

en

26:16

Sustaining Parks and Wellness: Nichole Fisher on...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/09/24

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel speaks with Nichole Fisher, CMP, Executive Director of the Michigan Recreation & Park Association, about the critical need for sustainable funding and equitable access to parks. Nichole highlights the surge in park usage during COVID-19 and the growing demand for improved resources. She also shares strategies for boosting member engagement and underscores the vital role of association advocacy in promoting health and wellness through public parks.MSAE

en

28:32

Breaking Industry Barriers: Insights on Michigan's...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/08/20

In this episode of Insight, Ariel chats with John Lindley, IOM, president and CEO of the Michigan Association of Recreational Vehicles and Campgrounds and The Michigan Manufactured Housing Association. John shares his insights on navigating Michigan's unique business landscape, exploring both the challenges and opportunities within the manufactured housing and recreational vehicle industries. The conversation highlights the crucial role of collaboration and advocacy, the value of industry

en

26:03

Navigating Industry Challenges: Working for the Needs...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/07/09

In this episode of Insight, Ariel chats with Angela Madden, MPA, executive director of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services (MAAS). Angela shares her career journey to becoming executive director, detailing the unique challenges of working in a small-staff association and being available 24/7 for her members. They discuss the significant hurdles EMS agencies in Michigan face, including financial struggles, lack of reimbursement, and difficulty in increasing salaries, and emphasize the

en

28:12

Facing Member Challenges: Work-Life Balance and the...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/06/11

In this episode of Insight, Ariel chats with John Tramontana, CAE, executive director of the Michigan Dental Association and current chair of the MSAE board of directors. They discuss meeting the diverse challenges of members, the significance of maintaining work-life balance, and John's career journey to becoming CEO of MDA. John also highlights the crucial role of mentors in navigating various professional roles and the importance of focusing on listening. This episode is sponsored by Yeo &

en

33:49

Literary Landscapes: Championing a Cause

MSAE Insight ·

2024/03/21

In this episode of Insight, Donna and Ariel chat with Deborah Mikula, executive director of the Michigan Library Association. They discuss the impactful work of the association and its members, strategies for gaining insights into the industry and its professionals, and initiatives aimed at attracting young talent to the profession. Learn about Michigan's Right to Read program and the association's advocacy efforts to champion important causes. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the evolving

en

30:03

It's All About Relationships, Leading by Listening...

MSAE Insight ·

2024/02/20

In this episode of Insight, Ariel and Donna have the pleasure of visiting with Patty Corkery, President and Chief Executive Officer at the Michigan Credit Union League & Affiliates. Our hosts talk with Patty about what it's like to lead a large, complex, state-based association and how Patty leans in to learn what members need. Tune in to hear what MCUL has been doing to engage young professionals, Patty's insights about leading credit union advocacy efforts, and the role of mentors in her

en

22 results

Similar Podcasts

TaxTalent.com The Golden Rule Podcast

Adam Golden

TaxTalent.com Podcast

Tony Santiago

Handelsblatt Crime - spannende Streitfälle der deutschen Wirtschaft

Ina Karabasz, Solveig Gode, Sönke Iwersen

Deffner und Zschäpitz – Der Wirtschafts-Talk von WELT

WELT

Black Box - La scatola nera della finanza

Guido Brera e Gian Luca Comandini -...