Association Hub Podcast - Episodes #Membership Growth

#52: Never Waste a Crisis: Paul Zahra on Leading Through Challenges and Change

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:31:14 +1100

In this inspiring episode, Olena catches up with Paul Zahra, outgoing CEO of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA). Paul reflects on his journey leading the ARA through some of its toughest years—think COVID-19, economic shifts, and rapidly changing customer preferences.

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In this episode of the Association Hub Podcast, Olena sits down with Paul Zahra, outgoing CEO of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA). Known for his transformative leadership, Paul reflects on his five-year tenure, where he helped the ARA navigate a turbulent era marked by the COVID pandemic, economic shifts, and changing consumer behavior. He shares insights on the power of community in associations, the importance of understanding diverse member needs, and how tailored resources can drive engagement and value. Paul also offers valuable advice for association leaders on the keys to resilience and strategic growth in a fast-changing landscape.

As Paul moves on to new opportunities, he provides a glimpse into the ARA’s future as it transitions into the Australian Retail Council, a consolidation aimed at enhancing the industry's voice and impact.

Whether you're an association leader or a retail industry professional, Paul's insights on handling change, embracing challenges, and delivering member value make this a must-listen episode.

#51: Growing Pains: When Membership Growth Shakes the Business with Rob Di Leva

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 10:32:19 +1100

Over the past decade, Speech Pathology Australia has doubled its membership, and Rob takes us behind the scenes to discuss the necessary changes driven by the recent remarkable expansion.

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In this episode of the Association Hub Podcast, Olena chats with Rob Di Leva, Chief Operating Officer at Speech Pathology Australia, to explore the positives and challenges of exponential growth within associations. Over the past decade, Speech Pathology Australia has doubled its membership, and Rob takes us behind the scenes to discuss the necessary changes driven by the recent remarkable expansion. He'll cover everything from adapting to external factors like the NDIS and increasing public awareness, to enhancing internal strategies in advocacy, professional development, and strategic marketing.

While growth is often celebrated, it also brings its fair share of challenges. Rob opens up about the operational pressures that come with rapid scaling, how to manage resources effectively, and the pivotal role technology plays in supporting organisational change. He also shares his experience balancing forward-thinking leadership with the practicalities of day-to-day management, offering advice on when to take bold steps and when to focus on preparation and risk management. Rob also emphasises the importance of remaining true to your organisation’s core purpose, even when opportunities for expansion arise.

This episode is packed with actionable advice and thoughtful perspectives for association leaders at any stage of their growth journey. Don’t miss out – listen in, subscribe, and share it with your colleagues!

#50: Leading Through Growth and Advocacy: Elevating the Surveying Profession with Michelle Blicavs

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:16:07 +1100

In this episode of the Association Hub Podcast, Olena chats with Michelle, CEO of Surveyors Australia, about her dynamic journey in transforming a long-standing association into a thriving, forward-thinking organisation.

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If you're looking for a leader in the association sector who has tackled it all—rebranding, skyrocketing membership, launching a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), and spearheading advocacy—you won’t find anyone better than Michelle Blicavs.

In this episode of the Association Hub Podcast, Olena chats with Michelle, CEO of Surveyors Australia, about her dynamic journey in transforming a long-standing association into a thriving, forward-thinking organisation. From an ambitious rebrand to hands-on member engagement and securing a seat at the advocacy table in Canberra, Michelle shares her recipe for success. Hear how she grew the association's membership by personally visiting hundreds of organisations across Australia and how that boots-on-the-ground approach led to remarkable growth.

Michelle also opens up about the bold decision to start a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to address Australia’s surveyor skill shortages, despite many peers in the sector advising against it. Plus, learn how she navigated the often daunting world of advocacy, proving that even small associations can have a big voice.

This episode is packed with real-world insights, actionable advice, and stories that showcase the power of passion and perseverance in the association sector.

#26: Leading Through Change: IAP2 Transformative Journey with Marion Short

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +1100

Marion shares her story of a comprehensive transformation that touches every aspect of association management.

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In this inspiring episode of the Association Hub Podcast, host Olena Lima sits down with Marion Short, CEO of the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Australasia as she shares her story of a comprehensive transformation that touches every aspect of association management.

Discover how IAP2, as a peak body for community and stakeholder engagement, navigates the unique challenges of representing a diverse professional community across Australia and New Zealand.

Olena and Marion explore the transformations in governance, strategy, organisational culture, and technology adoption. Marion shares insights on the pivotal role of governance in steering such changes, the importance of a skill-based board, and the challenges of leading an association through a period of rapid evolution.

With an honest reflection on the highs and lows of her six-year tenure, Marion provides invaluable lessons on resilience, leadership, and the importance of nurturing a supportive team culture.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of association leadership, change management, and driving member value in challenging environments.

#21: Start with the Why Not: Challenging Conventions to Drive Association Innovation with Lindsay McGrath, SPASA

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +1100

Discover how Lindsay encourages culture of innovation by asking 'why not' and considering alternative approaches to member engagement, service delivery, and industry leadership.

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This episode invites listeners to explore the transformative power of questioning established norms within their associations. It's about encouraging a culture of innovation by asking 'why not' and considering alternative approaches to member engagement, service delivery, and industry leadership.

Join host Angela Shelton and guest Lindsay McGrath, CEO of Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia to discuss how this mindset has been pivotal in his own association's evolution and offer insights on how others can adopt this approach to catalyse change and growth within their organisations.

Learn more about SPASA