Association Brain Food: 6.5.26

The weekly list of free educational events and resources for the association community

a spot of sunshine landing on a shaded trail in the green woods

I’m heading west for a family hiking vacation next week, so this edition of Association Brain Food will have to tide you over until Friday, June 26. See you all then!

Good reads for the association community

“You can be relevant as hell and still be boring as f*ck.” ~brand strategist Martin Weigel (Is he talking about associations?)

Program management. If your trade association runs certifications, awards, scholarships, committee applications, or product competitions, staff end up managing each one with a mix of spreadsheets, email chains, and manual follow-up. OpenWater shows how all five programs can run on one platform—with examples from associations in construction, aviation, consumer electronics, food service, and sports.

Website content strategy. The debate over public vs. gated content is addressing the wrong question, says Shannon Gray (Betty.AI). She recommends separating content by strategic purpose: public for AI discoverability and member acquisition, members-only for retention and depth, and internal for staff efficiency. She supports her argument with membership revenue data from associations already running this model.

Association membership benchmarks. Marketing General Inc. (MGI) previews early data from its forthcoming 2026 Membership Marketing Benchmarking Report. Not all the findings are good news. Only 39% of associations grew membership this year, down from 48% in 2024. And, fewer than one in eight associations consider their value proposition very compelling. The report also covers AI adoption, recruitment tactics, and what high-performing associations are doing differently.

Free marketing design/copy course. Go beyond the basics with Association Academy’s Association Creative Marketing Masterclass, a four-week deep dive designed specifically for association professionals. This program teaches you to optimize banner ads, landing pages, and email copy for maximum performance. Through live weekly classes led by association CMOs, learn to master the copy and layout techniques needed to increase the return on your promotional materials—all while earning up to four CAE credits. Classes start Thursday, July 2 at 1 p.m. Enrollment is free with the referral code BRAINFOOD.

Repurposing content for microlearning. Last year, Cathy Lada (Lada Consulting) built member microlearning programs for two associations using their archived webinar content. Her advice: start with what members need to do at work, not what’s sitting in your content archive, and build an operating rhythm to sustain your programs.

Volunteer leadership as member value. DJ Johnson (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association) describes what it takes to connect volunteer leadership to real member value in this Q&A with Association Adviser’s Gabi Coelho. Their conversation covers strategic alignment, feedback loops, volunteer-staff partnerships, matching volunteers to roles that play to their strengths, and building leadership pipelines that bring in new people.

Website redesign RFPs. Most website redesigns that go sideways don’t fail during the project; they fail during the RFP process. Steward describes ten mistakes associations make before they ever get a proposal back. A well-run RFP process gets you sharper proposals and smoother final approval decisions.

Taming overwhelm. If you want to increase productivity, Steven van Gemert says to start your day with nothing. Begin the day with empty work surfaces: your desk, computer desktop, browser tabs, to-do list, and notebook. He advises not using your work surfaces as storage. Separate the two and the mental clutter starts to clear.

Unaffordable housing. David Larson at the Carolina Journal explains one root cause of the starter-home shortage. “The young workers, moving to our area and graduating from our colleges, want to buy smaller, more-affordable homes. The homebuilders want to build and sell them those homes. But until local governments get out of the way, or are forced to by the state, North Carolina is unlikely to have nearly enough starter homes to meet the demand.”

Snacks

Could future B2B event business models be built directly on content consumption? An intriguing strategy, but is it viable? | Bob Mitchell, Mitchell Partnership Alliances

The indoor childhood is bad for America. We need to reckon with the cultural implications of trapping an entire generation at home with nothing useful to do. | Ben Sasse, Wall Street Journal (gift link, I hope)

Wow. Fourth-century coin and mysterious inscriptions found under Notre Dame cathedral: “Dig of the century.” | CBS News


Association Brain Food is a labor of love and always will be. If it’s been useful to you, your team, or your webinar marketing, buying me a beer is genuinely appreciated. Thanks!

Please buy me a craft beer!

You never grow old at the table

My chives are going crazy, so I browsed a few recipes and came up with this simple, quick salmon dish. Before roasting, top salmon fillets with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Once out of the oven, spoon over a deep green sauce made in the immersion blender with cilantro, chives, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil.

On the side, another new recipe: sweet and sour melting cabbage. Plan ahead, because it takes about an hour to cook. Orange juice, maple syrup, and red wine vinegar provide the sweet and sour.

I made this Italian-stuffed pork loin for the second time. We love it so much, it might end up on our Christmas Eve menu. One warning: don’t use as much salt as the recipe calls for. I did that the first time and it was way too salty. Instead, sprinkle what you think is the right amount inside and outside the loin. I used less than half of what they suggested. An inspired addition: scatter dried cranberries across the filling before rolling up the loin.

On the side, roasted sweet potatoes and creamed collards with mushrooms, red bell pepper, onion, carrot, bacon, etc.



About CAE credits: Per ASAE, “any continuing professional education offered by any professional entity may be accepted toward the [CAE] professional development requirement as long as it is directly related to either association or nonprofit management as defined by the CAE exam content outline.”

Education providers: If you have a free webinar or event coming up, please send me the link by Wednesday afternoon the week before it’s scheduled. I’m happy to feature it as long as it’s not product-centric.


Fri 6/5 from 11:02 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.* – EVENTASTIC

EVENTASTIC is an events focused conference designed to help exceed your current strategies with actionable advice you can deploy same-day, informed by a deep pool of real-time user data. EVENTASTIC is designed to share the very latest trends from event design, marketing, event tech, sponsorship sales, engagement, swag, content planning and more. More info/register.

Host: Guru Media Hub

*All events are online at Eastern Time unless otherwise noted.


Fri 6/5 at 1 p.m. – Foresight Fridays: Member Value Is Shifting – Turn Your Programs into AI-Driven Experiences

Learn how associations can evolve their value proposition beyond static benefits. Explore how to create intelligent, personalized experiences that adapt to member needs in real time. Hear how existing programs, content, and systems can become the foundation for future-ready engagement. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

  • Farhad Khan, CEO of Member Lounge
  • Mallory Mejias, AAiP, Co-Host and Producer of the Sidecar Sync Podcast
  • Eden Dahlstrom, Vice President of Professional Development and Membership at EDUCAUSE

Mon 6/8 at 8 a.m. – Will You Be Missed? Association Relevance (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Every week, Rogue Tulips brings the association community intriguing guests who discuss vital topics affecting associations around the world. Episodes are published Monday mornings in both audio and video format, available on YouTube and the usual podcast channels. 

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, ACNP, LPEC, Principal & Founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guest: Christine Saunders, Halmyre


Mon 6/8 at 12 p.m. – Membership Mondays: Membership Skills That Translate All the Way to the C-Suite

Hear how a member‑centric mindset propelled Tip Tucker Kendall, CAE, from membership specialist to executive director and has driven over 150% growth along the way. Explore the core membership skills that naturally translate to executive influence, culture‑building, and strategic decision‑making, and learn how membership professionals can shape their organization’s direction from any seat. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE


Tue 6/9 at 12 p.m. – Renovating Your Board: A Seven-Domain Framework for Governance Health

Good intentions don’t hold a board together. Strong governance does. Learn about the House of Governance™, a framework that examines seven core domains of governance health. Walk through the “rooms” of the house, identify where your governance system is solid, where it’s drafty, and where it needs renovation. Discover how decisions get made, how leaders understand their roles, and how the board and executive can stay aligned,  so your organization keeps moving forward. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: GrowthZone

Speaker: Jim Thompson, Tying it Together Consulting


Tue 6/9 at 12 p.m. – Tech Tuesday: Beyond Trains Running and Lights On – Are You in the Engine Room or the Boardroom

The job description for association tech leadership has changed. Keeping the Wi-Fi up and the AMS running is just the starting point. In an era shaped by AI and rapid change, technology leaders have the opportunity to move beyond maintaining systems to driving strategy and impact. As technology reshapes our organizations and the very makeup of our teams, association leaders face a critical pivot. So, where is your focus: just keeping the lights on, or lighting the way? More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Facilitators:

  • Reggie Henry, Chief Information and Performance Excellence Officer, ASAE
  • Dave Coriale, President, DelCor Technology Solutions

Tue 6/9 at 2 p.m. – Ethics and Decision Making When Leading Volunteers

When you’re torn between two or more of the core values for leading and managing volunteers, how do you know if you’re in an ethical dilemma, and what should you do to ensure that you make the right decision? Learn about those core values and how to incorporate ethical decision making into your work. Find out how to think through a real ethical dilemma faced by a leader of volunteers, and practice the steps needed to implement this practice in your own work. More info/register.

Hosts: Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration and Idealist

Speakers: Faiza Venzant, CVA, Executive Director for the Council for Certification in Volunteer Administration and Jennifer Bennett, CVA


Wed 6/10 at 11 a.m. – How to Manage Vendors: Drive the Bus, Don’t Ride (Office Hours for LMS Buyers)

Learn what it takes to run a streamlined, defensible vendor selection process. Explore techniques for managing vendors, evaluating proposal responses, comparing prices, down-selecting vendors, and staying on schedule. More info/register.

Host: Talented Learning

Speaker: John Leh, CEO and Lead Analyst at Talented Learning


Wed 6/10 at 11 a.m. – Making Volunteer Selection Objective – Building Thoughtful Criteria

Volunteers are an association’s most engaged members. They regularly find the most value in their membership. Yet many associations obfuscate the process for becoming a volunteer, either relying on who they know, or creating a process that is difficult to navigate. Learn how associations can better outline their process for volunteer selection to help engage more members, providing more value to both members and the association. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Justin Burniske, MBA, Principal Consultant, Co-Owner at Volunteer Me by Meta-Dao


Wed 6/10 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Learning is the Value: Turning Continuing Education into Your Association’s Growth Engine (Washington DC)

Learn how to position your education strategy as a core driver of member value, engagement, and retention aligned to what your members need and will pay for. Discover practical ways to scale impact and monetize learning from certifications to digital offerings. Explore how you can leverage digital learning to expand reach, stay competitive, and deliver measurable outcomes across the member lifecycle. Location: Washington DC. CAE credits. More info/register.

Host: D2L

Speakers:

  • Bill Sheehan, Global Head of Association Strategy, D2L
  • Tobin Conley, VP of Client Education, DelCor

Wed 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Only Marketers in the Building: Successful Campaign Strategies for Associations

From growing membership and raising awareness to driving advocacy and supporting organizational goals, your campaigns carry serious weight and a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t cut it. Learn how to craft campaigns that speak to member motivations and organizational mission; create strategies for recruitment, retention, and re-engagement; amplify your message across digital and traditional channels; measure success; and make the case for your marketing investments. More info/register.

Host: GrowthZone

Speaker: Nicole Araujo, Client Engagement Director, Mighty Citizen


Wed 6/10 at 12 p.m. – How Mentors and Emerging Talent Will Succeed Together in the AI Workplace

Learn why the relationship between mentors and emerging professionals is shifting in the AI workplace, what both sides need from each other right now, and what associations can do to help both groups succeed. More info/register.

Host: TaleWind Digital

Speaker: Amberlee Huggins, President, American Marketing Association—Washington, DC


Wed 6/10 at 12 p.m. – Scale Your Reach: Redesigning Association Events

Learn how to rethink traditional event models to expand your association’s influence and attract a broader, more diverse audience. For association leaders, reimagining these gatherings is essential for keeping members engaged and attracting a new generation of professionals to your mission. More info/register.

Host: NXUnite by Nexus Marketing

Speakers:

  • Bill Zimmer, Head of Marketing and Creative at 360 Live Media
  • Joe Colangelo, Co-Founder and CEO at Bear Analytics
  • Lawrence Givens, Senior Director of Partnerships at eShow

Wed 6/10 at 1 p.m. – What Leading Organizations Do Differently with Learning: Strategy, Measurement & Impact

Learn about a practical approach to assessing the role of learning within a credentialing portfolio. Using the Learning Power Index (LPI) as an illustrative example, see how a single metric supports data-informed decision-making, evaluates program performance, and aligns learning initiatives with organizational strategy. Hear how CompTIA evaluated its learning strategy, aligned stakeholders, and implemented changes to improve program performance. More info/register.

Host: Institute for Credentialing Excellence

Speakers:

  • Katie Hoenicke, Chief Product Officer, CompTIA
  • Ashish Rangnekar, Co-founder and CEO, BenchPrep

Wed 6/10 at 1 p.m. – The Trust Gap: What New Research Reveals About How Events Build Trust

How are event and marketing teams building credibility with their audiences today? To find out, we commissioned global research with Censuswide, surveying 901 event and marketing professionals across 12 countries. Learn how your peers are building audience trust and why events are a crucial channel for human connection and brand credibility, how AI is reshaping audience trust and what it means for your strategy, and how to design and measure events for human connection and prove the impact back to your organization. More info/register.

Host: Meetings Today

Speakers: Brittany Fisher, Team Lead, Product Marketing, and Victoria Akinsowon, Manager, Content Marketing, Cvent


Thu 6/11 at 11 a.m. – Insourcing vs. Outsourcing IT: Not an Either/Or Decision

Learn how to categorize the various components of IT management; examine the operational risks and opportunities tied to each component; compare common management models (insourced, outsourced, or co-managed IT); and outline key variables to consider when choosing the right model for your association. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speakers: Heinan Landa, Founder & CEO, and Chris Abel, Manager of Consulting Services, Optimal Networks


Thu 6/11 at 12 p.m. – On The Hunt

A monthly, community-driven virtual gathering designed to support AWTC members who are exploring new opportunities, navigating a job search, or considering their next move. Connect with peers, share insights, exchange leads and resources, and stay encouraged through the job-hunting process. Each session includes informal discussion, optional themed topics, and space for participants to reflect on their next steps to create momentum while prioritizing connection, flexibility, and community support. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions


Thu 6/11 at 1 p.m. – How Associations Are Using Digital Platforms to Deepen Member Value and Grow Non-Dues Revenue

More associations are beginning to use ‘plug and play’ digital platforms to turn their websites into stronger engines for member and sponsor value, while driving non-dues revenue in the process. Hear directly from association leaders using platforms to create more useful digital experiences for members while opening the door to more modern, scalable growth opportunities. Find out how these platforms work, where they can create value, and what associations are learning from real-world use. More info/register.

Host: Lead Marvels

Speakers:

  • Vanessa (Vinnie) Finley , Chief Executive Officer, NALA – The Paralegal Association
  • Stephen Kendrick, Senior Program Manager, Communications & Marketing, American Public Transportation Association
  • Marcus Weston, Senior Director, Global Enterprise Sales & Partnerships, The Institute of Internal Auditors
  • Jamie Green (moderator), Founder, ContentOvation

Mon 6/15 at 11 a.m. – The Human Side of AI: Culture, Confidence, & Change

Explore the human side of AI adoption, focusing on how culture, confidence, and change are shaping the way organizations integrate AI. Hear how AI is impacting day-to-day work, team dynamics, and leadership. Learn how to maintain independent thinking, address burnout and pressure, navigate job security concerns, and build a healthy, supportive culture around AI. More info/register (ASAE members only).

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

  • Alex Caldeira, Manager, Policy Coalitions | ASAE
  • Ivanna Casado, Future of Work Strategist & Executive Coach | Your Go-To Coach
  • Marc-André Rochefort, Founder & President, | Leanova Academy

Mon 6/15 at 12 p.m. – AWTC Virtual Co-Working Session

Virtual co-working is an online gathering where participants spend dedicated time working alongside one another. In the first five minutes, brief introductions: your name, organization, and the project, task, idea, or decision you hope to make progress on or complete during the session. This is protected time to work alongside your AWTC champions. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions (AWTC)


Mon 6/15 at 1 p.m. – The Power of You: Unlocking Leadership Traits and Values That Drive Success

Explore the leadership traits that have the greatest impact on your effectiveness. Hear how even your greatest strengths can become obstacles when overused, how to be more intentional in choosing the right leadership approach for the moment, and how small shifts can create meaningful change in your career and team outcomes. Dive into the role of values as your leadership “true north.” 1.5 CAE credits. More info/register.

Host: The Alliance of Women in Associations

Speaker: Kathy Shanley, Founder of Statice


Tue 6/16 at 10:30 a.m. – Meditation Skills for Busy Lives

Take a pause from busyness and learn simple mindfulness practices to ease stress and reduce the feelings of burnout. These monthly sessions, designed to help you create space in your day, include: 5 minutes to arrive and settle in, 10 minutes of guided meditation practice, and 5 minutes for questions and reflection. Every month, we explore a new area of meditation and introduce a practical skill you can carry with you. Open to everyone, no prior meditation experience required. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions

Meditation leader: Moira Edwards, Owner & President, Ellipsis Partners


Tue 6/16 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Beyond Membership: The Revenue Shift Associations Can’t Afford to Ignore (Ottawa ON)

Learn how to move beyond dues dependence by diversifying revenue and better monetizing education. Explore practical strategies—from certifications and on‑demand learning to sponsorships and digital content—that strengthen member value while driving sustainable non‑dues growth. Location: Ottawa ON. More info/register.

Host: D2L

Speaker: Bill Sheehan, Global Head of Association Strategy, D2L


Tue 6/16 at 12 p.m. – CRVM Crunch and Munch

Join us for an interactive discussion regarding best practices, challenges, and wins in component relations and volunteer management. These meetings are open to all ASAE members—insights and questions welcomed. More info/register.

Host: ASAE Component Relations Volunteer Management Advisory Council


Tue 6/16 at 12 p.m. – Risky Business: What Types of Insurance Do Associations Really Need?

Explore the core insurance products associations should understand, emerging exposures reshaping association risk, common coverage definitions in plain language, and the types of claims associations are seeing most often. Get the clarity to evaluate your current coverage and make insurance decisions that fit your association. More info/register.

Hosts: ASAE and Aon


Tue 6/16 at 2 p.m. – Onboarding That Works: From Instant Access to Complex Approval Processes

Explore how to design onboarding experiences that drive early engagement, no matter how simple or complex your process may be. From fast, automated access to phased and approval-based models, unpack the common challenges that lead to disengagement and show you how to overcome them. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speakers: Eileen Quinn, Senior Strategic Advisor; Emily Jennings, Senior Partner Program Manager; and Georgina Donahue, Director, Community Innovation & AI Strategy, Higher Logic


Wed 6/17 at 11 a.m. – The Well-being Edge: How Flourishing Employees Drive Mission Success

Join a practical, research-backed conversation about workplace well-being built specifically for leaders who make decisions that affect people and culture. Learn what a thriving workplace looks like, why it drives better organizational outcomes, and how to build one – even in the face of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. Get a clear understanding of how to recognize a healthy culture, the science that explains why it works, and concrete steps you can start applying at your organization. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

  • Dennis P. Stolle, JD, PhD, Executive Lead Psychologist, Applied Psychology | American Psychological Association
  • Doug Reynolds, PhD, Executive Vice President | aptMetrics
  • Tara Davis, Senior Director, Internal Communications & Staff Wellbeing | American Psychological Association

Wed 6/17 at 12 p.m. – Lead the Change You Want to See

Learn how to drive change effectively along with the essential skills required for change leadership, along with the steps needed to implement and sustain change within organizations. More info/register.

Host: Stratford Group

Speaker: Kathryn Yeung, Senior Consultant & Change Management Expert, Stratford People & Culture


Wed 6/17 at 1 p.m. – From Silos to System: How Associations Can Converge Content, Marketing, and Data

Explore how leading associations are moving from disconnected efforts to a unified, converged model—where content, marketing, and data work together as one system. Learn how to rethink your structure, align your teams, and create a content ecosystem that meets your audience where they are. See how this strategy comes to life in practice and what tools can support a more connected, data-informed approach to engagement. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: Fonteva

Speakers: Michelle Jackson, Chief Strategy Officer, and Janet Celosia, Vice President, Marketing Strategy, BackPocket Agency


Wed 6/17 at 1 p.m. – Woo That Works: Authentic Leadership in an Age of Artificial Everything

Hear how to reconnect with the most human parts of leadership: presence, self-awareness, courage, and connection. In a world increasingly shaped by AI, automation, and performative professionalism, authentic leadership is no longer a nice-to-have; it is a real differentiator. Through a practical blend of mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and the head-heart-gut framework, explore how to lead with more clarity, empathy, and courage without hiding behind corporate armor. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Anne Robie, Principal at Darshan Leadership


Wed 6/17 at 2 p.m. – Keys to Driving Webinar Registration

Learn tips for creating compelling promo messaging, how to optimize and personalize your email invitations, new ways to drive social promotions, and tricks to driving on-demand registrations. More info/register.

Host: Content Marketing Institute

Speakers:

  • Mark Bornstein, VP, Content Marketing and Chief Evangelist, ON24
  • Stephanie Stahl, Managing Director, Content Marketing Institute

Wed 6/17 at 2 p.m. – Uncovering Emerging Destinations

Hear about the new locations the panel is exploring and booking for 2026 and beyond. Find out how they discover and research emerging destinations, and assess a destination’s infrastructure. Learn strategies for easing stakeholder concerns and effectively promoting and marketing events in new or emerging spots. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Northstar Meetings Group


Thu 6/18 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Beyond Membership: The Revenue Shift Associations Can’t Afford to Ignore (Toronto ON)

Learn how to move beyond dues dependence by diversifying revenue and better monetizing education. Explore practical strategies—from certifications and on‑demand learning to sponsorships and digital content—that strengthen member value while driving sustainable non‑dues growth. Location: Toronto ON. More info/register.

Host: D2L

Speaker: Bill Sheehan, Global Head of Association Strategy, D2L


Thu 6/18 at 12 p.m. – Rethink Your LMS: A Framework for Engagement and Follow-Through

Explore how today’s learners actually behave—not how we wish they behaved—and what that means for the way you design and deliver educational experiences. Look at why common formats fall short, what patterns are emerging that do work, and how to structure learning in a way that supports real participation and follow-through. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: GrowthZone

Speaker: Beth Brodovsky, founder, Iris Creative


Thu 6/18 at 1:30 p.m. – AI as Leverage: How a 10-Person Team Operates Like 50

Learn about the internal AI skill library the Bear Analytics team uses every day: from client-needs intelligence that compounds across every prospect call, to delivery tools that turn raw data into executive-ready client briefs in minutes instead of hours. Hear how that same leverage philosophy extends to clients, when bespoke intelligence can be tailored to each account and delivered through mechanisms built specifically for how that client operates. Get the real playbook from a team that built AI into how they run and what their clients touch. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Hosts: Barbara Armentrout, CAE, BJA Solutions for Associations, and Teri Carden, COO, Insight Guide

Speaker: Joe Colangelo, CEO of Bear Analytics


Thu 6/18 at 2 p.m. – Safeguarding Your Association: Governing and Managing Cyber & AI Risks

Explore how cyber and AI risks are interconnected enterprise challenges that demand leadership-level ownership and integrated governance strategies. Get practical tools and strategies to safeguard your organizations, protect member data, and ensure ethical AI practices. More info/register.

Host: GrowthZone

Speaker: Christopher Hetner, Cyber Risk Advisor to the National Association of Corporate Directors


Thu 6/18 at 3 p.m. – Bridging Generations, Building Leaders: Lessons from Cross-Organizational Mentorship

Learn how a senior association executive and an emerging leader from different organizations built a partnership grounded in curiosity, trust, and mutual learning. Hear how cross-organizational mentoring deepened their understanding of leadership, organizational culture, and the evolving expectations of today’s workforce. Find out what makes mentorship relationships thrive, how to structure meaningful connections across institutions, and how to sustain a culture of development that benefits both mentor and mentee. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speakers:

  • Bradley Brewer, Director Corporate Engagement, ACORE
  • Samantha Rosenberg, SPHR SHRM-SCP, CAE, Chief People & Governance Officer, Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine

Mon 6/22 at 8 a.m. – The Cost of Being Reactive (Radio Free 501c, the podcast of Rogue Tulips Consulting)

Every week, Rogue Tulips brings the association community intriguing guests who discuss vital topics affecting associations around the world. Episodes are published Monday mornings in both audio and video format, available on YouTube and the usual podcast channels. 

Host: Cecilia Sepp, CAE, ACNP, LPEC, Principal & Founder, Rogue Tulips Consulting

Guest: Pamela Murphy, Minerva Insight Strategies


Tue 6/23 at 12:30 p.m. – How Event Teams Can Deliver Better Sponsor ROI

Explore how modern event teams are evolving their sponsorship strategies to better align internal teams, improve sponsor experiences, and create more effective ways to measure and communicate ROI. From operational efficiency to creative activations, we’ll discuss practical ideas for building stronger sponsorship programs that work for everyone involved. More info/register.

Host: Bizzabo


Tue 6/23 at 1 p.m. – Does Your Budget Become Obsolete the Day the Board Approves It?

Learn how forecasting and scenario planning improve the financial ability and sustainability of nonprofits in a changing funding landscape. Hear about practical steps to move beyond annual budgets, including how to introduce forecasting and align it with existing processes. More info/register.

Host: Raffa Investment Advisers

Speakers: Buu-Linh Tran, CPA and Dan Holcomb of JMT Consulting


Wed 6/24 from 9:05 a.m. to 4:50 p.m. – Demo Day: AI in Action

Get a firsthand look at how associations are using AI today through live, real-world 30-minute product demos. See practical examples from both AI-first companies and established tech providers who have infused AI features into their offerings—showcasing tools that could enhance member engagement, operations, and strategic initiatives. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Participants: Bulletin Apps, GrowthZone, Breezio, Hivebrite, Higher Logic, Forj, Tradewing, Clowder, Cantarus, and Izzy—Blue Cypress


Wed 6/24 at 11 a.m. – Communication Killers: Why Smart C-Suite Leaders Lose Their Jobs—And How Not to Be Next

What takes down even the best association CEOs and C-suite leaders isn’t performance—it’s communication. Misread your board or misjudge your staff dynamics, and your credibility can erode fast, taking your reputation and role down with it. Get a candid look at how subtle missteps in messaging, tone, or alignment can turn collaboration into confrontation, and what you can do today to stop it. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Richard Yep, Vice President at Vetted Solutions


Wed 6/24 at 12 p.m. – AI Readiness Check: Is Your Team Actually Prepared?

Many associations are eager to “use AI,” but struggle when results fall flat or create more confusion than clarity. Learn whether your organization is truly prepared to use AI effectively and what needs to be in place before AI can deliver meaningful value. Get a practical readiness checklist that helps you identify gaps, prioritize next steps, and move forward with confidence instead of guesswork. More info/register.

Host: HighRoad Solutions

Speaker: Maneesha Manges, CXO, HighRoad Solutions


Wed 6/24 at 12 p.m. – How High Performing Organizations Build and Maintain a Sponsorship Advantage

Learn how to connect with the right people inside a prospective sponsor, present a clear and compelling case for sponsorship, and develop sponsorship relationships that create real value for both a sponsor and your organization. More info/register.

Host: Zzeem Consulting


Wed 6/24 at 12 p.m. – Security Across Exam Modalities: Are We Having the Right Conversation?

Explore the evolving landscape of exam security, with a focus on the ongoing debate between remote proctoring and traditional test center delivery. Recent moves by major organizations to withdraw from remote proctoring as a modality option for test takers is creating a lot of discussion in the assessment industry regarding the effectiveness and security of different testing modalities. Hear how assessment programs should design and apply layered security controls to protect integrity in an increasingly complex threat environment. More info/register.

Host: Association of Test Publishers

Speakers:

  • Basim Baig, Director of Engineering, Duolingo
  • Claire McCauley, Director of Exam Services, Cambridge Assessment
  • Wally Dalrymple, Chief Security Officer, ETS
  • Rachel Schoenig (moderator), Cornerstone Strategies, Vice-Chair of ATP Security Committee

Wed 6/24 at 1 p.m. – Smarter F&B: Balancing Cost, Care and Experience

Learn where cost pressures are showing up most in F&B; how to avoid common planning mistakes that increase risk; how to deliver inclusive, thoughtful menus without blowing the budget; and how to support stronger conversations with venues and stakeholders. 1 CMP credit. More info/register.

Host: Meetings Today

Speaker: Tracy Stuckrath, founder of thrive! meetings & events


Wed 6/24 at 4 p.m. – Build a Private AI Assistant Using Local LLMs Without Sending Company Data to ChatGPT

Learn how to run powerful AI models locally on your own computer, connect them securely to internal company documents, and build private AI assistants for your organization — without exposing sensitive data to public AI platforms. More info/register.

Host: Simpalm

Speakers: Piyush Jain, CEO and Founder; Andrew French, Digital Project Manager; and Alex Neibart, Business Analyst, Digital Products, Simpalm


Thu 6/25 at 12 p.m. – Intro to AI Webinar for Associations and Nonprofits

Get a plain-language breakdown of generative AI and LLMs, what they are, how they work, and where their limits are. See real examples of how associations are using AI to deepen member engagement and simplify day-to-day operations. Watch live demos of the tools making the biggest practical impact right now. More info/register.

Host: Sidecar

Speakers:

  • Erica Salm Rench, CMO, Sidecar
  • Thomas Altman, Co-Founder, Tasio

Thu 6/25 at 1 p.m. – Leading with Confidence: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Explore the connection between leadership confidence and imposter syndrome two forces that deeply influence how leaders show up, make decisions, and inspire others. Learn how to recognize and reframe imposter thoughts, strengthen self-awareness, and build the confidence needed to lead with authenticity and resilience. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speaker: Rachel Schuster-Simmons, Deputy Director | Bostrom


Thu 6/25 at 3 p.m. – The Community Blueprint: Design a Digital Home for Your Members

Get a blueprint for your own community platform: what belongs on your homepage, how to structure navigation, how to set up engagement triggers that keep members coming back, and how to measure community health beyond simple login counts. More info/register.

Host: Farhad Khan, CEO, Member Lounge


Thu 6/25 at 4 p.m. – AI for Non-Profits: How to do More with Less

Learn about current AI capabilities, limitations, and emerging trends relevant to organizational workflows; practical ways AI can support team productivity through real-world use cases and workflow examples; and key principles for responsible, effective team-level AI adoption and actionable next steps. More info/register.

Host: ASAE

Speaker: Jonathan Bloomfield, Founder Upskailed | AI Upskilling


Mon 6/29 at 11 a.m. – AWTC Open Doors

Open Doors is a monthly online gathering for AWTC members—45 minutes designed for genuine connection, discussion, and problem solving. With rotating hosts from the AWTC community, volunteers, board, and other leaders in the field, it’s a space to meet new members, deepen existing relationships, and tap into the collective expertise of the community. Each session opens with an ice breaker, moves into a featured topic or AMA, and includes a “Situation Room” where members can bring a real challenge and gather insight from peers. More info/register.

Host: Association Women Technology Champions


Mon 6/29 at 12 p.m. – Board Burn Out and What to Do If you See It

Instead of losing valuable contributors, learn how to identify board burnout symptoms, ways to prevent it, how to discuss this topic with your board members, and what to do if it becomes disruptive. More info/register.

Host: Association Xchange

Speaker: Denise Roosendaal, Executive Director, Institute for Credentialing Excellence


Wed 7/1 at 11 a.m. – AI Is Changing the Inbox, Are Your Emails Ready?

AI is already reshaping how emails are delivered, summarized, and prioritized—especially in Gmail. That means your members may be seeing a version of your email before they even open it. Learn how inboxes are changing, what it means for associations, and how to adjust your email strategy now. Get simple, practical ways to improve your email structure, content, and design so your emails stay visible, relevant, and effective. 1 CAE credit. More info/register.

Host: UST Education

Speaker: Amber Worthen, CEO & Founder at Email Maven


If Association Brain Food has ever sent you to information you used, helped you earn CAE credits, or made Friday a little better, buying me a beer is a nice thank you.

Please buy me a craft beer!

Association Brain Food Weekly is published Friday mornings. If you offer free professional development to the association community, please send me the link by Wednesday afternoon.



Creative Commons licensed photo by Myles Bloomfield via Unsplash

Amazon, AssociationBrainFood.com, and Association Academy links allow me to earn a royalty and/or complimentary registration from any resulting leads or sales. Thank you!

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Author: deirdrereid

Deirdre is a content marketing writer/partner for companies serving the association market. After more than 20 years managing associations and restaurants, she's enjoying the good life now by helping companies inform, educate, and deepen relationships with the association community. Away from her laptop, you can find her walking in the woods, enjoying live music, reading hundreds of newsletters, watching hockey, cooking, hanging at the local brewery, or relaxing with a Kindle book.