MSAE Insight
An original podcast series from the Michigan Society of Association Executives where we explore the creative solutions achieved by associations navigating today’s turbulent business, regulatory, and social landscapes and the people who lead them.
An original podcast series from the Michigan Society of Association Executives where we explore the creative solutions achieved by associations navigating today’s turbulent business, regulatory, and social landscapes and the people who lead them.
Episodes

Oct 22, 2024
Oct 22, 2024
27 min
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.
Oct 22, 2024
27 min

Sep 24, 2024
Sep 24, 2024
26 min
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.
Sep 24, 2024
26 min

Aug 20, 2024
Aug 20, 2024
28 min
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.
Aug 20, 2024
28 min

Jul 9, 2024
Jul 9, 2024
26 min
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.
Jul 9, 2024
26 min

Jun 11, 2024
Jun 11, 2024
28 min
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.
Jun 11, 2024
28 min

Mar 21, 2024
Literary Landscapes: Championing a Cause
Mar 21, 2024
Mar 21, 2024
33 min
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.
Mar 21, 2024
33 min

Feb 20, 2024
Feb 20, 2024
30 min
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.
Feb 20, 2024
30 min

Jan 16, 2024
Jan 16, 2024
30 min
In our inaugural episode, we talk to Sam Klemet, president and CEO of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and member of the Michigan Society of Association Executives’ Board of Directors. He joins our hosts Donna Oser, CAE, and Ariel Backus for an engaging conversation wrapped around his career journey, how his members are changing the world, and strategies for recruiting young and emerging professionals into the industry.
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
Jan 16, 2024
30 min

Dec 14, 2023
Insight Trailer
Dec 14, 2023
Dec 14, 2023
1 min
The Michigan Society of Association Executives presents the all-new Insight – a podcast for association professionals. Join our host Donner Oser, CAE, and her cohosts – some of the best and brightest young leaders in Michigan’s association community – as they explore the creative solutions achieved by associations navigating today's turbulent business, regulatory, and social landscapes.
Dec 14, 2023
1 min

Meet your host
Today’s rapid advancements in technology, diverse, multigenerational work force, and changing economy present significant challenges for associations and nonprofits. A Certified Association Executive® with 20+ years of experience in nonprofit management, Donna Oser combines business acumen, an entrepreneurial mindset and a creative approach to collaboration to help organizations leverage change to build capacity, grow influence and, ultimately, achieve their unique purposes.






