Better By Association

In this episode, recorded live at TSAE’s New Ideas Annual Conference in San Antonio, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Christian Malesic, MBA, CAE, CMP, IOM, an eight-time CEO with more than 28 years of leadership experience. Christian shares his remarkable path from Air Force officer to association executive, highlighting the strategies and mindset that have guided his success in organizational turnaro...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert welcome Dr. Tracey Wilen, the closing keynote speaker at this year's New Ideas Annual Conference in San Antonio. Dr. Wilen shares her unconventional path from the world of fashion magazines to leadership roles in technology and manufacturing, highlighting how resilience, curiosity, and adaptability shaped her career. The conversation explores the major forces reshapi...

In this episode, recorded live at TSAE’s New Ideas Annual Conference in San Antonio, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Pam Donahoo, FASAE, CAE, CEO of USFN - America's Mortgage Banking Attorneys. Drawing from her distinguished career with organizations like American Mensa and USFN, Pam shares lessons on leading through transition, engaging multiple generations, and fostering trust through transparency a...

In this episode, recorded live at TSAE’s New Ideas Annual Conference in San Antonio, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Jenifer Sarver, Principal at Sarver Strategies and keynote speaker at this year’s New Ideas Annual Conference. Together, they explore how clear, authentic communication can strengthen associations and build trust in times of change. Jenifer draws on her background in media relations, cr...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert welcome Gloria Terry, CEO of the Texas Council on Family Violence, and the 2025-2026 board chair of TSAE. Gloria shares her inspiring path from Chamber of Commerce executive to nonprofit leader, driven by a commitment to creating meaningful change. The conversation explores the Council’s multifaceted work—from legislative advocacy to crisis response—while also addres...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert explore how associations can harness the power of artificial intelligence with guests Jennifer Mitchell, CAE, of the Association of Texas Professional Educators, and Emily Stamm of Betty:AI. From first steps to future visions, they share real-world stories of implementing AI, including how it's being used to personalize member experiences and solve sector-specific ch...

In this episode, Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Tracy Ginsburg, Ed.D., CAE, executive director of the Texas Association of School Business Officials. With over 40 years in association leadership, Tracy shares how she helped transform TASBO through strategic planning, legislative advocacy, and a strong focus on member value. She offers insights on overcoming fear around finance, the power of data-informed d...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert chat with Angela Davis, MBA, CAE, CEO of the Society for Pediatric Radiology, about the leadership lessons that have shaped her journey. Angela shares how she navigated the leap to CEO, the power of building a strong remote team, and her strategies for staying grounded amid uncertainty. She opens up about imposter syndrome, adapting leadership styles, and the ongoing...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert welcome Aaron Wolowiec, FASAE, CAE, CMP, founder and president of Event Garde, to explore what’s shaping the future of meetings and events. Aaron shares how he unexpectedly found his path in the industry and offers valuable insights into the lasting effects of the pandemic, shifting attendee expectations, and the increasing costs of AV, food, and beverage. The conver...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert welcome Avi Olitzky, president and principal consultant of Olitzky Consulting Group, to explore the unique and often complex relationship between association CEOs and volunteer leaders. Avi shares insights on the role of emotional intelligence, strategic planning, and shared purpose in building strong CEO-volunteer partnerships. The discussion covers best practices, ...

In this special episode, recorded live at the TSAE Women's Summit, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with confidence-building expert Marli Williams to explore the power of self-trust and personal transformation. Marli shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, strengthening confidence in both individuals and teams, and practical strategies like curating a "support wall" and recognizing personal strengt...

In this episode, Ryan Byrd, CAE, director, managed chapters at the American College of Emergency Physicians, joins hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert. Ryan shares her journey into association management, her passion for building strong member relationships, and the key to understanding what truly motivates members. The discussion dives into the role of marketing in recruitment, effective engagement strategies, and the...

In our season 2 finale, Dr. Michelle Smith joins hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert to explore strategies for associations ahead of the 2025 legislative session. Smith highlights the critical need for associations to engage with newly elected legislators, craft clear messaging strategies, and mobilize grassroots advocates. She also shares insights on navigating advocacy challenges, such as aligning internal priorities...

In this episode, Shirley Robinson, CAE, executive director of the Texas Library Association (TLA), joins hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert to share her inspiring journey in the association world and advocacy efforts of Texas associations. From her early ambition of becoming an optometrist to discovering her passion for nonprofit work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Shirley reflects on the experiences and les...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert are joined by Lucinda Hart, CAE, MBA, IOM, and Nita Scott, CAE, MSE, from Delta Kappa Gamma International Association. They discuss the unique leadership transition between a retiring CEO and the incoming one, highlighting the importance of clear communication and strategic planning for a seamless change. The conversation underscores the need to set egos aside and fo...

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert are joined by Sarah Sladek, founder and CEO of XYZ University, renowned author, and keynote speaker at this year's New Ideas Conference. Sarah dives into the evolving landscape of member engagement, emphasizing the need for associations to adapt to shifting demographics. She discusses the emotional connection members have with organizations and the critical focus on ...

In this episode, Paulina Van Eeden Hill, CAE, chief operating officer at Strategic Association Management, executive director of the Texas Association for the Gifted & Talented, and 2024-2025 board chair of the Texas Society for Association Executives, joins hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert. Paulina shares her insights on balancing responsibilities, personal growth, and blending both scientific and artistic appr...

In this episode, Tracy Tomson, CAE, former executive director and CEO of the Restaurant Facilities Management Association and Distinguished Life Member of TSAE, joins hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert. Tracy shares her fascinating career journey, detailing her transition from the radio industry to association management. She discusses the transferable skills that contributed to her success and emphasizes the value of...

In this episode, we chat with Tiffany McGee, CAE, CEO of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association. She joins hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert to delve into why staff culture is vital for association success. They discuss the importance of intentionally nurturing a positive work environment, creating a safe space for open communication, and addressing sensitive issues head-on. Tiffany also highlights the value of engageme...