VSAE ConneXions

Presented by the Virginia Society of Association Executives, each episode of VSAE ConneXions series focuses on the interconnectivity of Virginia’s association community. Our hosts engage in conversations with VSAE members about life, work, and the communities they serve. Get an inside look into the association world through the eyes of a close-knit community that calls Virginia its home.

VSAE ConneXions is a business podcast hosted by Virginia Society of Association Executives, with 38 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Virginia Society of Association Executives hosts VSAE ConneXions, a business show with 38 episodes published.

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  Episode #37

  Connecting with Mark Kenny on Building Uncommon Collaboration

  Aug 27, 202618 min

  In this episode, Mark Kenny offers a preview of his opening keynote, “Uncommon Collaboration: The Paths That Transform How We Work Together,” ahead of VSAE’s Fall Conference & Expo. Mark shares his journey from IT and software entrepreneurship to helping organizations build stronger, more collaborative teams, and explains why simply coordinating work isn’t the same as true collaboration. He introduces his concept of “collaboration passes,” the human gifts we give one another that help teams succeed, including the importance of passing our presence through attention, curiosity and listening without an agenda. Mark also shares a simple question leaders can use to invite meaningful feedback from staff, boards and volunteers and discusses how to keep conversations about collaboration going long after the conference ends. VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings .

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  Episode #36

  Connecting with Joe Burak on Practical AI Strategies for Associations

  Jun 25, 202626 min

  In this episode, Joe Burak, founder and chief strategist of TRANSiT Strategy & Analytics, explores how artificial intelligence and data analytics are transforming the association industry. He shares his journey from analyzing home show attendance data to launching an AI and analytics consulting firm, and discusses how tools like ChatGPT accelerated AI adoption across associations. Joe explains how organizations can use AI to turn member, survey, program, and financial data into actionable insights, dashboards, forecasts, and faster decision-making. He also offers practical advice on AI governance, staff training, evaluating new tools, and balancing innovation with security and organizational readiness. VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings .

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  Episode #35

  Finding Clarity in the Chaos: Lessons in Leadership and Core Values

  Apr 23, 202626 min

  In this episode, Janine Stange, closing keynote speaker for VSAE’s upcoming annual conference, shares her journey from pursuing a music career to leading a purpose-driven mission that reshaped her path. From recording albums on Long Island and in Los Angeles, Janine reflects on the pivotal moment sparked by her mother’s illness that led her to reevaluate her priorities, let go of self-imposed limitations, and focus on something bigger than herself. That shift inspired her to embark on a nationwide journey to sing the national anthem in all 50 states, honoring veterans and their families while bringing people together through a shared moment of connection. She also shares how the journey gained momentum through national media coverage and grassroots support, culminating in her final performance in Tennessee during a Vikings–Titans game in 2014, later captured in a documentary. Throughout the conversation, Janine connects her experience to the realities of association leadership, highlighting the importance of resilience, adaptability, intentional listening, and her “DROP method” as a practical approach to getting unstuck and moving forward with clarity. VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings .

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  Episode #34

  Connecting with Sean Bott on Engagement, Human Connection, and the Art of Mentalism

  Mar 26, 202618 min

  In this episode, Sean Bott—mentalist and opening keynote speaker for VSAE’s upcoming annual conference—shares how he blends psychology, performance, and humor to create what he calls “magic for adults.” What began with a hypnosis book at age 12 evolved into a global career in entertainment, and ultimately, a transition into speaking where he helps audiences better understand connection, attention, and human behavior. At the heart of the conversation is a simple idea: meaningful engagement doesn’t happen by accident. Sean explains how his keynote combines clean humor, interactive moments, and research-backed insights to help association professionals connect more quickly with members and create experiences that stick. He also offers practical leadership shifts that translate beyond the stage—listening more than speaking, resisting the urge to immediately solve problems, and intentionally building a culture of gratitude. Along the way, Sean shares personal influences that shape his perspective, from time spent hiking and traveling to his appreciation for unexpected, underrated food cities. VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings .

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  Episode #33

  Connecting with Jonathan Williams on AMC Leadership and Lasting Impact

  Feb 26, 202618 min

  In this episode, Jonathan Williams, president of Easter Associates, reflects on his unexpected path into association management and what has kept him energized through nearly two decades in the AMC environment. As Easter Associates marks its 50th anniversary, Jonathan shares insights on the firm’s long-standing client relationships and the core pillars that guide association success—advocacy, education, and networking. The conversation explores how the association profession has evolved into a more connected, always-on environment, the opportunities and pressures facing AMCs amid industry consolidation, and why tangible impact remains a powerful motivator for association leaders. Jonathan also discusses the importance of community through VSAE and offers a glimpse into life beyond work, including parenting triplets, staying active through running and sports, and finding balance through intentional compartmentalization. VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings .

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