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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode, David Walsh, the new Executive Director of the Virginia Society of Association Executives (VSAE), shares his journey into the association profession and the experiences that have shaped his leadership approach. Influenced early on by his mother’s career and hands-on internships, David reflects on his path through the association space, including a 14-year tenure at SNAC International and his involvement with the Army Strong Bonds program. The conversation explores David’s wide-ranging background across event planning, membership, advocacy, and communications, and how those experiences inform a leadership style grounded in relationships, trust, and attention to detail. David also shares his excitement about connecting with VSAE members across the Commonwealth and expanding the organization’s reach and relevance. Looking ahead, he outlines priorities for VSAE’s future, including strengthening education and professional development, building leadership pipelines, and creating space for innovation through thoughtful experimentation. The episode closes with a preview of VSAE’s upcoming annual conference in Williamsburg and what members can expect from the year ahead.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, John Newby, CAE, CEO of Virginia Bio, shares his path into the association world and the life sciences industry, highlighting the pivotal role of networking and mentorship along the way. Drawing from his military background, John reflects on a people-first approach to leadership and why listening is foundational to leading well. The conversation explores how aligning professional roles with personal values can lead to long-term career satisfaction, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing the life sciences sector—from navigating regulatory complexity to adapting to emerging technologies like AI. John also discusses the value of association communities such as VSAE in supporting professional growth and closes by offering a glimpse into his life outside of work, including his passion for cycling, yoga, and international travel.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Stephanie Peters, CAE, president and CEO of the Virginia Society of CPAs, joins us for a conversation about leadership, resilience, and the evolving landscape of the accounting profession. Stephanie traces her unexpected path from history major to association executive, reflecting on the mentors and pivotal moments that shaped her collaborative approach to leadership. She shares how honest feedback transformed the way she leads and why learning to delegate has been essential to her growth. Stephanie also opens up about a major professional setback—how it challenged her organization, what it taught her, and why it ultimately became a catalyst for innovation. She discusses the shifts reshaping the CPA profession, from private equity investment to emerging technologies like AI, and the role VSCPA is playing in helping members stay agile. Beyond the boardroom, Stephanie talks about her passion for travel and music, her recent recognition on the Virginia 500 Power List, and the deep value she finds in the VSAE community, both professionally and personally.

This episode is sponsored by Doubletree by Hilton Williamsburg Hotel and Conference Center.

VSAE ConneXions is produced by Association Briefings.