Association Transformation

Brewer Pratt Solutions & Elevated
  • 5.0 (3)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Association Transformation

Welcome to Association Transformation, a transatlantic conversation advancing the impact and evolution of non-profit organizations. We're always seeking diversity of thought and new examples of innovation in action. That and a commitment to mission driven organizations spurred this collaboration between the teams at Brewer Pratt Solutions and Elevated. Together with our special guests, each episode we take a deep dive into the issues, topics, challenges and opportunities facing the association community. Between us we’ve been there, done it, got the t-shirt: membership, mergers, boards and leadership, advocacy, and education - nothing is off limits. Any subject that effects non-profits, their survival or their success is up for discussion. 

  1. Surviving Nonprofits

    14 HR AGO

    Surviving Nonprofits

    Send us a text 🎉 150 episodes and still surviving! In our milestone episode, Surviving Nonprofits, we’re joined by Survivor winner and nonprofit leader Ethan Zohn to talk scaling global impact, building better boards, and leading through challenge and change. From grassroots to governance, this episode brings the best of what Association Transformation has delivered for 150 episodes: real talk, tough questions, and transformational ideas for association and nonprofit leaders. 🎙️ Tune in, celebrate with us, and get ready to rethink what it takes to thrive in the mission-driven world. Support the show

    33 min
  2. The Credibility Crisis: Can Associations Rebuild Trust in a Post-Truth World?

    6 DAYS AGO

    The Credibility Crisis: Can Associations Rebuild Trust in a Post-Truth World?

    Send us a text 🎧 The Credibility Crisis: Can Associations Rebuild Trust in a Post-Truth World? 📄 New White Paper Alert: Restoring Trust in Expertise In a world drowning in misinformation, eroding trust, and self-declared "experts," can membership organizations reclaim their role as guardians of truth and professional integrity? In our latest episode of Association Transformation, we unveil our new white paper and explore the historical, societal, and strategic role associations must play to rebuild credibility in a post-truth era. We dive deep into the threats of epistemic pollution, the pitfalls of certification as a business model, and the leadership required to restore trust — from boardrooms to community listservs. 🧭 This isn’t just commentary. It’s a call to action. 🎙️ Listen now, read the paper, and join the conversation on how associations can lead with integrity in uncertain times. Download our white paper at https://associationtransformation.org/restoring-trust.  Support the show

    30 min
  3. Mid-Year Reality Check: AI Adoption, Innovation Pressure, and Finding Perspective in 2025

    29 JUN

    Mid-Year Reality Check: AI Adoption, Innovation Pressure, and Finding Perspective in 2025

    Send us a text Join us for a hot mid-year conversation as we take the temperature on where associations really stand in 2025. We dive into the reality of AI adoption—why the gap is widening between early adopters and everyone else, and how technical discussions are keeping members from getting started with AI basics. We also tackle the mounting pressure on associations to constantly innovate and the artificial narrative that "everyone else is doing amazing things." Plus, we discuss the ongoing challenges with board-staff relationships, the importance of managing expectations, and why taking time to gain perspective might be the most important thing you do in the second half of this year. It's a honest look at the state of our sector, complete with practical advice for navigating the rest of 2025 without burning out. Support the show

    36 min

  4. 24 JUN

    RE-RELEASE: Board Culture and the Cult of Personality

    Send us a text Elisa and Andrew are on the road this week but we don't want you to go without your weekly dose of AT!! So here's a Season 4 episode we released back in November 2023. We'll be back soon but until then, put your members and your mission first!! We’re thankful for our #boardofdirectors . . . aren’t we?? Let’s talk about the challenges and complexities of board culture in #associations. Join Andrew and Elisa for this real and necessary Association Transformation episode where they share their hopes and concerns about professionalism on #nonprofit boards and historical approaches to leadership. Maybe you can put board education, training, qualification criteria, and a focus on organizational interests (rather than individual roles) on your Christmas list 😊 Support the show

    27 min
  5. Mastering Association Branding: The Story Your Members Tell

    15 JUN

    Mastering Association Branding: The Story Your Members Tell

    Send us a text Why do associations struggle with something as fundamental as branding? In this eye-opening episode of Association Transformation, hosts Andrew Chamberlain and Elisa Pratt welcome Tom Silva, Principal of Silver Brand and author of "The Challenge of Association Branding," to unpack the unique obstacles facing membership organizations. From volunteer governance structures that create decision-making bottlenecks to the multi-dimensional member experience that goes far beyond functional benefits, Tom reveals why traditional branding approaches fall short in the modern and future-focused association space. Discover how to move beyond logos and taglines, improve generic messaging that speaks to no one, learn the difference between marketing (the story you tell) and brand (the story your customers tell about you), and explore practical frameworks like the "minimum viable brand" approach that can help your organization create authentic, experience-driven connections with members. Whether you're facing industry disruption. Can’t define your value proposition or simply haven't held up the mirror in a while, this conversation provides actionable insights for associations ready to transform their brand strategy from the inside out. Download Tom's new e-book entitled "The Challenge for Association Branding" for free at https://www.silvabrand.com/.  Support the show

    34 min
  6. The Great Committee Cull

    9 JUN

    The Great Committee Cull

    Send us a text Ever wondered what happens when 400+ volunteers spread across 44 committees becomes an organizational nightmare? Our latest Association Transformation episode features Angela Davis, CEO of the Society for Pediatric Radiology, who tackled this exact challenge head-on. Join hosts Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain as they dive into Angela's strategic approach to governance transformation—and why medical associations present unique challenges when it comes to committee restructuring. In this candid conversation, you'll discover: ✅ How to build the business case for committee consolidation ✅ The art of managing expectations during governance changes ✅ Why "being on a committee doesn't mean you're engaged" ✅ Strategic approaches to combining committees without losing volunteers ✅ The power of transparency and phased implementation This isn't just about cutting committees—it's about creating more meaningful volunteer experiences and operational efficiency. A must-listen for any association leader drowning in governance complexity. Support the show

    38 min
  7. Finding Your Authentic Leadership Voice

    2 JUN

    Finding Your Authentic Leadership Voice

    Send us a text What if the best leaders aren't born but made? 🤔 Join hosts Andrew Chamberlain and Elisa Pratt as they dive deep with authentic leadership expert Jennifer Jensen, author of "Developing Authentic Leaders." 🔍 Key takeaways: → Why 90% of leaders suppress their "hidden treasures" at work → How to spot invisible leadership potential in your volunteers → The truth about imposter syndrome (spoiler: even experts feel it!) → Moving beyond personality tests to real self-awareness Perfect for nonprofit executives, association leaders, and anyone working with volunteer boards who want to unlock authentic leadership potential. Support the show

    27 min
  8. Governance is Leadership: Announcing the AT Executive Retreat

    27 MAY

    Governance is Leadership: Announcing the AT Executive Retreat

    Send us a text Join Andrew and Elisa as they preview the Association Transformation Governance & Leadership Executive Retreat, happening September 3-4, 2025 in Berkshire, UK! After five years of collaboration and extensive consultation with association leaders, they're launching this groundbreaking retreat designed specifically for CEOs, executive directors, and board chairs who want to move beyond reactive crisis management to proactive leadership excellence. This isn't your typical executive education – it's a carefully curated experience that embodies their core philosophy that "governance is leadership." With only 20 spots available and multiple Q&A sessions scheduled through summer 2025, this retreat promises to transform how association leaders navigate today's complex challenges. Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring board leader, discover how this collaborative approach to professional development could be the game-changer your organization needs. Don't miss their candid discussion about building something truly special for the association community – and yes, there might be branded merchandise involved! Download the retreat brochure at https://associationtransformation.org/executive-retreat. Ready to register? Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/governance-as-leadership-an-association-transformation-executive-retreat-tickets-1370204341069?aff=ebdsshcopyurl&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=organizer-profile&utm-share-source=organizer-profile.  Support the show

    20 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Association Transformation, a transatlantic conversation advancing the impact and evolution of non-profit organizations. We're always seeking diversity of thought and new examples of innovation in action. That and a commitment to mission driven organizations spurred this collaboration between the teams at Brewer Pratt Solutions and Elevated. Together with our special guests, each episode we take a deep dive into the issues, topics, challenges and opportunities facing the association community. Between us we’ve been there, done it, got the t-shirt: membership, mergers, boards and leadership, advocacy, and education - nothing is off limits. Any subject that effects non-profits, their survival or their success is up for discussion. 

Information

  • Creator
    Brewer Pratt Solutions & Elevated
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    154
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Association Transformation
  • Show Website
    Association Transformation

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