Archive for December 2025
The Myth of Member Loyalty—and What Actually Drives Retention in 2026
Spoiler: It’s not your dues discount or annual meeting Let’s get real about something we don’t talk about enough in the association space: Member loyalty isn’t what it used to be. And pretending it is? That’s costing you relevance—and revenue. For decades, associations have relied on an assumption: “If we offer enough value, members will stay.” But here’s the truth: Value isn’t the issue. The real issue is that value has been redefined. …
Read More25 Years Ahead of the Curve—and Why I’m More Concerned Than Ever About Relevance
Reflections on digital transformation, leadership, and what comes next for associations I’ve spent the last 25 years standing at the edge of what’s next. When many association executives were still wondering if the internet was a fad, I was already helping organizations rethink how digital tools could transform member relationships. When cloud computing emerged, I was leading conversations about operational agility and…
Read MoreAI is Coming for Your Assumptions—Are You Ready?
Why association leaders can’t afford to ignore the future anymore Let’s start with the uncomfortable truth: Many associations are still operating as if AI and digital transformation are optional. They’re not. Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t a distant disruptor lurking on the horizon. It’s already changing how your members live, learn, and work. If your organization isn’t adapting alongside them,…
Read MoreDigital Dexterity: The Skill Your Association Can’t Ignore
You invested in the platform. You launched the tools. You checked the “digital transformation” box. But something’s still off. Systems don’t talk to each other. Staff rely on workarounds. Member experiences feel… clunky. Sound familiar? The problem might not be your tech stack. It might be your team’s digital dexterity. What Is Digital Dexterity? Digital dexterity isn’t about coding or mastering AI. It’s your organization’s ability to adapt, adopt, and apply digital tools—across…
Read MoreIf Everything Is a Priority… Nothing Is.
Another board meeting. Another strategic planning session. Another list of 27 “must-win” initiatives. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. In fact, one of the biggest barriers to progress in associations isn’t a lack of ideas—it’s too many priorities competing for limited attention, resources, and time. When everything is a priority… nothing actually gets done. Strategy Should Give You Focus—Not Fatigue Strategic plans are…
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