In this episode, we sit down with Craig Toalson, CAE, CEO of the Home Builders Association of Virginia, to explore the evolving role of associations from advocacy organizations to community hubs. Toalson discusses strategies for engaging students and non-traditional members, highlighting the success of the Virginia Builder Summit, which attracted 7…

In this episode, we talk to Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CPF, CEO of Vista Cova, offering valuable insights into the vital relationships between CEOs and board members. Lowell explores how leadership has evolved in recent years and underscores the importance of creating inclusive and intentional pathways for future leaders. He also addresses t…

In this episode, we talk to Corey Clayborne, senior vice president of knowledge & practice, at The American Institute of Architects. Corey shares his deep passion for service and volunteering, highlighting the critical role of building strong relationships and leading by example. He delves into his experiences managing diverse member groups at the …

In this episode, we talk to Shannon McCabe, CAE, executive director of the Association of Consulting Foresters and current president of the Virginia Society of Association Executives. Shannon shares her journey into the association profession and her enthusiasm for stepping to the president role for VSAE. She discusses leading as a millennial, enga…

In this episode, we talk to Michelle Runge, CAE, director of chapter relations with the American Inns of Court and VSAE board member. Michelle shares her journey into the association profession, highlighting her dedication to fostering community and hospitality. We delve into her involvement in VSAE and the significance of being part of this organi…

In this episode, we talk with Sam Richter, one of the world's foremost sales intelligence and digital reputation experts, award-winning speaker and bestselling author. As the closing keynote speaker at this year's VSAE Annual Conference, May 5-7 in Norfolk, Sam provides insights into gaining intel secrets to grow your organization. Tune in for a sn…

In this episode, we talk with Anne Bonney, a courage ignitor, two-time author, and a renowned authority on change management. As the opening keynote speaker at this year's VSAE Annual Conference, May 5-7 in Norfolk, Anne provides insights into the challenges and opportunities we collectively encounter. Tune in for a sneak peek into Bonney's keynote…

In this episode, we talk to Bailey Kasten, CAE, executive director of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society. Join us for a conversation centered around the challenges and opportunities of managing a small association, leadership qualities, providing opportunities to women and young professionals, mentorship and the importance of being a part of …

In this episode, we talk to Bruce Whitehurst, president and CEO of the Virginia Bankers Association. Join us for a conversation centered around leadership, including Bruce's leadership journey, his leadership style and its evolution in the last 15 years, influential leaders and mentors that have shaped his career, advice for aspiring leaders, culti…

In this episode, we talk to Jeff De Cagna, FASAE, a respected contrarian thinker on the future of associating and associations. Join us for a conversation about how boards should safeguard their members and successors from technological harm, the importance of ethical decision-making before implementing generative AI, the need for regulation of AI …

In this episode, we talk to Sarah Sladek, a 20-year industry veteran who has dedicated her career to studying and researching the membership and engagement shift. Join us for a conversation about major differences in the generations that make up associations, why her generational research is so important, competition in the association space, and i…

In this episode, we talk to Jennifer Watson, CAE, membership manager of the Society of American Foresters. Join us for a conversation about her career journey, changes in association membership, how associations can stay relevant, leveraging collective resources and expertise to support members during times of crisis, and the value of VSAE membersh…

In this episode, we talk to Susan Park, PhD, CAE, executive director of the Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation. Join us for a conversation about her career journey, leadership advice, inspiring the next generation of leaders, the future of DEI in the association space, why we should all focus on our well-being, and how VSAE helped advance her …

In this episode, we talk Kristen Reid, CMP, Vice President of Education & Training for the Virginia Bankers Association, and Eric Hash, CEO of the Harrisonburg Rockingham Association of REALTORS - two graduates from this year’s cohort of Association Leadership Virginia. Join us for a conversation about the benefits of ALV, the importance of peer-to…

In this episode, we talk to Carter Lyons, CAE, director of communications for Associated General Contractors of Virginia. Join us for a conversation about Carter's journey from elementary school teacher to association executive, her passion for life-long learning, diversifying communication channels, involving early career professionals in your org…

In this episode, we talk to the co-chairs of VSAE’s Early Career Professionals Task Force, Laiya Rollins, membership and workforce initiatives manager at LeadingAge Virginia, and Lucy Firebaugh, communications and membership specialist for the Association of Consulting Foresters. Join us for a conversation about the importance of young and emerging…

In this episode, we talk to three recipients of this year's VSAE Award of Excellence. Join us for a conversation with Ray Mattes, CAE, president and CEO of the Retail Alliance; Phyllis Errico, CAE, General Counsel to the Virginia Association of Counties; and Jamie Mitchell with the Virginia Beach CVB. Each of these guests have a lot to say about th…

In this episode, we talk to Christina Lewellen, MBA, CAE, executive director of the Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools. Join us for a conversation about Christina's journey through the association space from content creator to executive director, her passions and challenges, and some inspiring advice for emerging leaders. Show…

In this episode, we talk to Rear Admiral Cari Thomas, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. Join us for an engaging conversation wrapped around Cari's personal journey in the military and how it prepared her for the association space, her passion about volunteerism, her leadership advice, and why family is so important to h…

In our inaugural episode, we talk to Steven Williams, CAE, association veteran and current president of the Virginia Society of Association Executives. Join us for an engaging conversation wrapped around Steven's career journey in the association space, his passions, his leadership advice, and a few interesting nuggets about Virginia life. Show not…

The Virginia Society of Association Executives presents the all-new VSAE ConneXions – an original podcast series focused on the interconnectivity of Virginia’s association community. Join our hosts Colby Horton and Frank Humada as they engage in conversations with VSAE members about life, work, and the communities they serve.…