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Association Transformation

Association Transformation

Written by: Brewer Pratt Solutions & Elevated
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Welcome to Association Transformation, a transatlantic conversation advancing the impact and evolution of non-profit organizations. We're always seeking diversity of thought and new examples of innovation in action. That and a commitment to mission driven organizations spurred this collaboration between the teams at Brewer Pratt Solutions and Elevated. Together with our special guests, each episode we take a deep dive into the issues, topics, challenges and opportunities facing the association community. Between us we’ve been there, done it, got the t-shirt: membership, mergers, boards and leadership, advocacy, and education - nothing is off limits. Any subject that effects non-profits, their survival or their success is up for discussion.

© 2026 Association Transformation
Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Fighting for Members but Undervaluing Association Staff
    Jan 25 2026

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    What happens when associations aggressively advocate for their members, while quietly shortchanging the professionals who make that advocacy possible?

    In Episode 167, Elisa Pratt and Andrew Chamberlain unpack a timely and uncomfortable case from the UK that exposes a deeper, sector-wide challenge: how perceived value, power, and authority shape decisions about association staff compensation, governance, and respect. Using the current British Medical Association staff dispute as a lens, this conversation goes far beyond one organization, exploring reserves, volunteer decision-making, executive authority, cultural hierarchy, and the real consequences of undervaluing professional expertise.

    This episode is a must-listen for CEOs, board chairs, finance committee members, and volunteer leaders who care about credibility, sustainability, and the future of association leadership.

    Because advocacy starts at home, and how we treat our staff says everything about the values we claim to represent.

    🎧 Listen now.

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    43 mins
  • Rethinking Association Events
    Jan 19 2026

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    Tired of expensive conferences with ten competing tracks, swag bags that collect dust, and exhibitors standing awkwardly behind tables? So is Gordon Glenister.

    In this episode, the CEO of Membership World joins Andrew and Elisa to share his upcoming UK road show—a bold experiment in intimate, regional events designed around one question: How do we actually engage members in an increasingly noisy world?

    Gordon breaks down what he's doing differently: → Four locations bringing content to members instead of making everyone trek to London → A pricing model that rewards participation (£60 if you commit to meeting with partners) → Repositioning suppliers as "experts" and embedding them in roundtables—not relegating them to the hallway → Capturing and sharing insights from every session so the learning doesn't die in your notebook

    Whether you're rethinking your own conference model or just fed up with the status quo, this conversation is packed with ideas worth stealing.

    P.S. 📣 Association Transformation is proud to be the official media partner for the Membership World Road Show. Dates run January 29 through February 10 across Birmingham, Manchester, London, and Glasgow. Details and registration at https://www.membershipworld.com/roadshow/

    🎧 Listen now and join the transformation.

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    25 mins
  • The Year of Courageous Associations: Letting Go, Leaning In, and Leading Forward
    Jan 12 2026

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    As associations head into 2026, the pressure to prove relevance, sharpen focus, and deliver measurable member value has never been greater. In Episode 165 of Association Transformation, Andrew Chamberlain and Elisa Pratt are joined by Grant Carpenter of Raybourn Group International for a candid conversation about what association leaders must stop doing, start doing, and seriously rethink. From moving beyond pre-COVID benchmarks and sunsetting “sacred cow” programs, to redefining membership value, strengthening volunteer leadership, navigating increased competition, and confronting the growing impact of AI on member industries, this episode challenges boards and executives to get lean, lead with courage, and stay relentlessly member-focused as they position their associations for the next decade, not the last one.

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    32 mins
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