In this episode, host Justin Burniske (Meta-Dao), sits down with Elizabeth Engel (Spark Consulting), Jamie Notter (Culture Scientist), and Adam Savino (ASIS International) to explore how the Lean Startup methodology can help associations innovate smarter, faster, and with greater impact.

The group discusses how associations can apply Lean principles—like rapid experimentation, the build–measure–learn cycle, and data-driven decision-making—to test new ideas and develop non-dues revenue streams without wasting limited resources. They also dive into the cultural side of innovation: how to create space for change, embrace learning from failure, and move beyond the “loudest voice in the room.”

From overcoming internal resistance to exploring how AI can accelerate learning, this conversation offers practical advice and real-world examples for any association ready to adapt and grow.

🎧 Listen to learn:

• How Lean Startup principles translate to the association world

• Why culture can make or break innovation

• The importance of measuring what truly matters

• Ways AI can enhance experimentation and learning

Inspired by the recently released white paper “Lean at 10” (https://bit.ly/LeanAt10), this episode is a must-listen for association leaders looking to turn smart ideas into sustainable action.

In the final episode of the I want to be a CXO series, how do I get there? series, Gabrielle Elahimjian Sroor (member of ASAE’s Young Professional Advisory Council) sits down with Brianne Wheeler, Founder & CEO of Levitate Marketing, to talk about unconventional career paths, entrepreneurship, and leadership in the association space.

Brianne shares how diverse experiences shaped her career, why people and networks open unexpected doors, and what it really takes to step into the C-suite—or launch your own business. From lessons on resilience, metrics, and mentorship to candid stories of navigating challenges, this conversation is full of practical takeaways for anyone looking to grow as a leader in associations.

In this episode, "When One System Isn’t Enough: Rethinking Association Tech for Agility and Growth," we explore a challenge many associations face: relying solely on their AMS to manage everything from member management to communications. As member expectations grow and digital strategies become more complex, a single system often can’t keep up—resulting in workarounds, data silos, and stalled innovation.

Discover how a more flexible, integrated approach to technology can help. We dive into how associations are rethinking their tech stacks by combining specialized platforms that work seamlessly together. This approach doesn’t replace the AMS but expands its impact, delivering greater agility, richer data insights, and a more personalized member experience.

Whether you’re feeling limited by your current system or just curious about what’s next, this episode offers practical insights for building a smarter, more adaptive technology foundation to support growth.

Moderator:

• Vinnu Deshetty, Event ROI Coach

Speakers:

• Reggie Henry, ASAE’s Chief Information & Performance Excellence Officer
• Jeff Horne, Founder & CEO of Wicket
• Ron McGrath, Founder & CEO of HighRoad Solutions

Make sure to follow TPAC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asae-tpac/