MSAE Insight

Mentorship Matters: Investing in Innovation with Ara Topouzian

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel sits down with Ara Topouzian, executive director of the Michigan Venture Capital Association, to explore the critical role of venture capital in driving startup success. Ara delves into Michigan's growing tech scene, the impact of economic development organizations, and the association's initiatives like the Venture Fellows Program, which champions diversity and inclusion. He also addresses common misconceptions about venture capital, shares insights into the challenges the industry faces, and highlights the value of advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration in strengthening the startup ecosystem.
Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
 
Show notes
A longtime champion of small and large businesses with an expertise in association management, Ara Topouzian serves as Executive Director of the Michigan Venture Capital Association.  In his leadership role at MVCA, Topouzian advocates for Michigan’s entrepreneurial and venture investor community with legislative and government officials and promotes Michigan venture investment opportunities to regional and national markets.  He also supports membership growth, guides program development and sets strategic direction for the organization.

Pouring Success: Advocating for Michigan’s Beer & Wine Industry with Spencer Nevins

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel sits down with Spencer Nevins, President of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, to explore the vital work of representing 43 Michigan-based beer and wine wholesalers. Spencer shares insights into Michigan’s booming craft beer and wine industry, the role of advocacy and legal efforts, and the ongoing challenges around talent recruitment and infrastructure. He also explains the significance of the state’s bottle bill and the three-tier distribution system, which helps maintain fair competition and a thriving market. Tune in to learn how the association supports its members through training programs, advocacy, and a commitment to keeping Michigan’s beverage industry competitive and community-focused.
Insight is produced by Association Briefings.

Preserving Tradition: Growing Membership with Amy Start

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel sits down with Amy Start, Executive Director of the Michigan Christmas Tree Association, to explore strategies for member recruitment and retention. Amy shares the rich 72-year history of the association, highlights its member benefits like the industry journal and biannual meetings, and discusses key challenges such as attracting new members and addressing retirements among veteran farmers. As a bonus, Amy offers expert tips on selecting the perfect Christmas tree to bring holiday cheer to your home. Whether you're in the industry or simply love the tradition of fresh Christmas trees, this episode is packed with evergreen insights!
Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
 
Show notes
Amy Start, a proud Michigander, has been a driving force behind the Michigan Christmas Tree Association for over 7 years. As Executive Director, she oversees a range of services, from educational events to marketing campaigns. Her dedication to the industry is also evident in her role as editor of the Great Lakes Christmas Tree Journal, the go-to resource for Christmas tree growers and retailers. When she’s not busy leading the association, Amy can be found spending quality time with her family, including her furry companions, Frito the dog, and Bobby Sue the grand cat.

Building Leaders: Professional Development and Mentorship with Wendy Zdeb

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel speaks with Wendy Zdeb, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP), about the critical role of professional development and mentorship within the association space. Wendy highlights how MASSP supports its members by offering over 200 events annually and expanding its mentorship program to include formal training for new administrators, ensuring they have the tools needed for success in their leadership roles.
 
This episode is sponsored by Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors.
 
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
 

Sustaining Parks and Wellness: Nichole Fisher on Advocacy, Equity, and Funding Challenges

In this episode of Insight, host Ariel speaks with Nichole Fisher, CMP, Executive Director of the Michigan Recreation & Park Association, about the critical need for sustainable funding and equitable access to parks. Nichole highlights the surge in park usage during COVID-19 and the growing demand for improved resources. She also shares strategies for boosting member engagement and underscores the vital role of association advocacy in promoting health and wellness through public parks.
 
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.

Breaking Industry Barriers: Insights on Michigan's Business Landscape

In this episode of Insight, Ariel chats with John Lindley, IOM, president and CEO of the Michigan Association of Recreational Vehicles and Campgrounds and The Michigan Manufactured Housing Association. John shares his insights on navigating Michigan's unique business landscape, exploring both the challenges and opportunities within the manufactured housing and recreational vehicle industries. The conversation highlights the crucial role of collaboration and advocacy, the value of industry associations, and the importance of staying ahead of industry advancements. John also delves into pressing issues such as affordable housing shortages, supply chain disruptions, and labor challenges, offering his perspective on the current state of these vital industries.
 
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.

Navigating Industry Challenges: Working for the Needs of Members

In this episode of Insight, Ariel chats with Angela Madden, MPA, executive director of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services (MAAS). Angela shares her career journey to becoming executive director, detailing the unique challenges of working in a small-staff association and being available 24/7 for her members. They discuss the significant hurdles EMS agencies in Michigan face, including financial struggles, lack of reimbursement, and difficulty in increasing salaries, and emphasize the importance of legislation to address these issues. Angela also gives us a glimpse into her intriguing hobby as a hot air balloon pilot.
 
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings. 

Facing Member Challenges: Work-Life Balance and the Power of Mentorship

In this episode of Insight, Ariel chats with John Tramontana, CAE, executive director of the Michigan Dental Association and current chair of the MSAE board of directors. They discuss meeting the diverse challenges of members, the significance of maintaining work-life balance, and John's career journey to becoming CEO of MDA. John also highlights the crucial role of mentors in navigating various professional roles and the importance of focusing on listening. 
 
This episode is sponsored by Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors.
 
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings. 

Literary Landscapes: Championing a Cause

In this episode of Insight, Donna and Ariel chat with Deborah Mikula, executive director of the Michigan Library Association. They discuss the impactful work of the association and its members, strategies for gaining insights into the industry and its professionals, and initiatives aimed at attracting young talent to the profession. Learn about Michigan's Right to Read program and the association's advocacy efforts to champion important causes. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the evolving landscape of libraries and the crucial role they play in shaping communities.
 
Thanks to Choose Lansing (https://www.lansing.org/ ) for sponsoring this episode on Insight!
 
Insight is produced by Association Briefings.

It's All About Relationships, Leading by Listening and Engaging with Members

In this episode of Insight, Ariel and Donna have the pleasure of visiting with Patty Corkery, President and Chief Executive Officer at the Michigan Credit Union League & Affiliates. Our hosts talk with Patty about what it's like to lead a large, complex, state-based association and how Patty leans in to learn what members need. Tune in to hear what MCUL has been doing to engage young professionals, Patty's insights about leading credit union advocacy efforts, and the role of mentors in her career. 
 
Show Notes 
Helpful links to some of what's discussed:
Michigan Credit Union League & Affiliates (https://www.mcul.org)
Fueling, Uplifting, Educating Leaders Young Professionals Networking (https://www.mcul.org/foundation/fuel-michigan)
CU Solutions Group (https://www.cusg.com/)
Patty's Podcast (https://www.mcul.org/member-connection/credit-unions-coffee-and-conversations)
 
Thanks to Choose Lansing (https://www.lansing.org/ ) for sponsoring this episode on Insight!
 
Insight is produced by Association Briefings.