In the inaugural episode of the Association Evidence Project, host Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CPF, sits down with three leading voices in association research and strategy: Sheri Jacobs, FASAE, CAE, president and CEO of Avenue M Group; Dean West, FASAE, founder and president of Association Laboratory Inc.; and Andrea Wieters, director of strategic and future-focused research at ASAE. Together, they examine the current state of association research, including persistent challenges around data utilization, survey fatigue, and turning insights into action. The discussion centers on how associations can move beyond collecting information to using evidence as a strategic asset, supporting better decision-making, stronger collaboration, and more future-focused planning. The episode sets the stage for building research-driven cultures that continuously engage members and use evidence to drive meaningful impact.

The Association Evidence Project is produced by Association Briefings.

In this preview of The Association Evidence Project, host Lowell Aplebaum introduces a new series designed to help association leaders cut through the noise and make smarter, data-informed decisions. Each episode spotlights the research, insights, and experts shaping the future of the association sector — from governance and membership to foresight, economics, and innovation. Season One begins with conversations from inside the evidence itself, featuring leading researchers as they share what they’re seeing, studying, and anticipating as we move into 2026.