The Association Podcast

Jake Toohey, Ben Muscolino, Gretchen Steenstra
  • 5.0 (13)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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.

  1. MAR 5

    Engineering the Future of Associations: Data, AI, and Digital Transformation with Ravi Rooprai

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Ravi Rooprai, Director of IT and PMO at the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT). Ravi shares his unique journey from molecular microbiology and pharmaceutical consulting into association technology leadership, bringing a scientific mindset to digital transformation and innovation. The conversation explores how MDRT is modernizing association technology by decoupling legacy systems, building scalable data ecosystems, and experimenting with AI-driven personalization. Ravi explains how his team approaches technology through experimentation, feasibility studies, and agile thinking to improve member experiences and operational efficiency. We also dive into MDRT’s cutting-edge meeting technology, including large-scale multilingual interpretation powered by AI and the infrastructure required to support thousands of attendees simultaneously streaming translated sessions. Ravi discusses how associations can better leverage data, personalization, and experimentation to drive engagement, retention, and measurable member value. From building a culture of innovation to applying e-commerce thinking to membership value, this episode offers practical insights for association leaders navigating digital transformation. 00:01:00 Introduction to Ravi Rooprai and MDRT 00:01:30 Rapid Fire Questions 00:02:40 Ravi’s Career Journey from Science to Association Technology 00:04:30 Lessons from Industry Applied to Associations 00:05:30 Using ROI and Value Metrics in Association Technology Decisions 00:07:00 Measuring Member Lifetime Value 00:08:30 The Value of MDRT Membership for Financial Professionals 00:10:30 Reworking Legacy AMS Systems Through Decoupled Data Architecture 00:12:00 Building a Modern Data Ecosystem Around Legacy Platforms 00:13:30 Scaling Membership Systems to Handle Peak Demand 00:14:45 Managing 60–70K Membership Applications During Renewal Season 00:16:00 Leveraging AI and Technology at Large Global Conferences 00:17:00 Simultaneous Translation and Multilingual Meeting Experiences 00:18:30 Solving Conference Connectivity and Infrastructure Challenges 00:20:00 Improving the Member Experience Through Technology 00:21:00 Favorite Tools: AI, Copilot, and Power Apps 00:23:30 Empowering Staff to Experiment with Technology 00:24:30 Personalization and Data-Driven Engagement 00:26:00 Using Engagement Data to Shape Event Programming 00:28:00 The Future of Digital Transformation in Associations 00:29:00 Applying a Scientific Mindset to Technology Innovation 00:31:00 Building a Culture of Experimentation and Safe Failure 00:33:00 Feasibility Studies and Agile Technology Testing 00:35:00 Applying E-commerce Thinking to Membership Value 00:37:00 The Future of AI and Meeting Technology at MDRT 00:39:00 Rethinking the Conference Experience 00:40:00 Closing Thoughts

    45 min
  2. Wrestling with Leadership and Innovation with Mike Moyer

    FEB 23

    Wrestling with Leadership and Innovation with Mike Moyer

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Mike Moyer, Executive Director of the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA). Mike shares his journey from wrestling coach to leading the NWCA, detailing the organization's mission to develop transformational coaches and advocate for wrestler safety through groundbreaking initiatives such as the creation of a weight management system. We delve into NWCA's innovative strategies, including coaching development programs and the Wrestlers in Business Network (WIBN), which connects wrestlers with career opportunities. Mike also highlights the challenges and triumphs of expanding wrestling programs nationwide and the critical role of technology in achieving their goals.

    48 min
  3. Growth and Tech Evolution: Embracing Change with Liam O'Malley, CAE, PMP, AAiP

    FEB 16

    Growth and Tech Evolution: Embracing Change with Liam O'Malley, CAE, PMP, AAiP

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome industry veteran Liam O'Malley from Path LMS by Momentive. Liam shares his extensive journey in the association market, highlighting key experiences from the American Bar Association to his current role at Momentum. The discussion covers the evolving landscape of online learning, microlearning strategies, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. Liam also introduces the exciting launch of Momentive IQ, a tool designed to centralize data and integrate various association technologies. Tune in to hear insights on managing nano markets and the future of AI in associations.

    36 min
  4. Designing for Success: Community and Empowerment in Women’s Roles with Dr. Ginna Santy

    FEB 3

    Designing for Success: Community and Empowerment in Women’s Roles with Dr. Ginna Santy

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome newly minted Executive Director of Women in Revenue, Dr. Ginna Santy. Ginna shares her journey from academia to founding a women-focused co-working business and ultimately leading Women in Revenue. We discuss her passion for elevating women's roles in revenue-generating positions and discuss the importance of designing for inclusivity. Ginna emphasizes the importance of creating value for women in professional spaces and describes Women in Revenue's community-building efforts.

    49 min
  5. The Art of Asking Why: Brand Experience and Strategic Marketing with Laura Sparks

    JAN 23

    The Art of Asking Why: Brand Experience and Strategic Marketing with Laura Sparks

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome Laura Sparks, Director of Marketing and Communications at the American Society of Appraisers. We dive into Laura’s journey into the association space, exploring her eclectic background and approach to marketing and leadership. We also discuss the importance of member engagement, the integration of AI in association marketing, and the critical role of content quality. Laura highlights the significance of marketing’s seat at the table and the need for collaborative planning to enhance member experiences and drive growth. Additionally, we explore volunteer engagement strategies and the value of feedback in refining marketing efforts.  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome  00:37 Rapid Fire Questions  02:23 Laura's Journey into Associations  05:40 Marketing and Sales Synergy  05:56 Content Marketing and AI  08:59 Tagging and Data Management  15:50 Member Experience and Feedback  26:01 The Role of Marketing in Associations  27:58 Marketing vs. Promotion: Understanding the Difference  29:55 The Importance of Marketing's Seat at the Table 31:02 Gender Dynamics in Marketing  32:29 Engaging Volunteers Effectively  35:28 Marketing Volunteer Opportunities  38:16 The Challenges of Committee Work  43:49 Planning and Ideation in Marketing  50:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    49 min

  6. JAN 13

    100th Episode Special: Reflecting on 5 Years of Association Insights

    Welcome to the 100th episode of The Association Podcast! We reflect on the evolution of topics and themes over the past five years, discuss our key takeaways, and acknowledge many of our influential guests. We cover themes like leadership and governance, digital strategy, data and analytics, culture, marketing and brand, community and engagement, education and learning, DEI, association strategy, and the impact of AI. You'll hear our personal anecdotes, audience insights, and future predictions.

    1h 13m
  7. Human-First Approaches: AI, Ethics, and Association Boards with Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE

    12/23/2025

    Human-First Approaches: AI, Ethics, and Association Boards with Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome repeat guest Jeff De Cagna, AIMP, FRSA, FASAE, and Executive Advisor at Foresight First LLC,  for a deep dive into the challenges and considerations involving AI and association boards. We discuss the Future of Association Boards (FAB) Report, which De Cagna curated and edited, touching on the importance of creating a better future for association boards. Jeff stresses the need for ethical reflection in adopting AI, the concept of stewardship over traditional leadership, and fostering humanity within organizational purposes. The conversation also covers practical approaches for boards, board readiness, and actions association leaders can take to effectively navigate the evolving landscape. FAB Report

    55 min
  8. Embracing AI & Accelerating the Velocity of Change in Associations with Alex Mouw

    12/11/2025

    Embracing AI & Accelerating the Velocity of Change in Associations with Alex Mouw

    On this episode of The Association Podcast, we welcome back Alex Mouw, Principal Strategic Advisor at AWS for Nonprofits. Highlighting the importance of strategic alignment and the value of diverse stakeholder involvement, Alex provides insightful guidance on implementing AI solutions sustainably and effectively. The discussion touches on the evolving role of technology in nonprofits, the necessity of a culture that supports experimentation, and how to decide between building or buying technology solutions. We also discuss the Imagine Grant, AWS resources for nonprofit organizations, and what skills are essential for today's tech landscape.

    47 min
See All (104)

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jake Toohey, Ben Muscolino, Gretchen Steenstra
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Association Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Association Podcast