In this episode of the Leading Learning podcast, Jeff interviews Cheryl Ronk, CEO of the Michigan Society of Association Executives (MSAE).
Cheryl discusses the critical role that MSAE’s members have played in shaping the organization’s approach to learning and talks about some of the specific initiatives her organization has under way, like the online platform Third Thought.
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Listen to the Show
Read the Show Notes
[00:18] – Preview of what will be covered in this podcast with Cheryl Ronk, CEO of the Michigan Society of Association Executives (MSAE) and why you will want to listen.
[01:21] – Introduction to Cheryl Ronk. She explains who the MSAE serves and what they do.
[03:08] – What is your vision for learning and how does it fit into the organization’s overall value proposition? Cheryl shares how members have been allowed to create the things they need and that they are successful because everything they do is member-driven.
[03:51] – An overview of the previous model for providing services to members that was ineffective and not based on actual needs. Cheryl shares information about how they revolutionized who they are and what they do by creating programs to service member needs based on their position as well as where they are in their career.
[05:49] – Discussion about Hall of Fame program where they recognize people who have left a legacy as well as get information from them about what made a difference in their career.
[06:40] – Specifics on the weekly programs MSAE offers to members.
[07:51] – Does it ever get messy or too much to manage? Cheryl shares how she deals with challenges around being innovative and managing all the different groups.
[09:29] – Discussion about MSAE’s use of technology and what led up to creating their Third Thought online learning initiative. She discusses certification and reveals information about how MSAE has now created more CAE’s than anyone else in the world.
[12:15] – Details about the Third Thought online learning initiative and her vision for associations as the ultimate source in each industry.
[14:10] – Do you think associations are moving fast enough and making the right choices to lead lifelong learning? Cheryl discusses what they are doing to lead the way.
[15:30] – Information about where they are (year 3) in Third Thought including information about self-assessment and links to resources. She provides specific examples of the types of resources available and explains her vision for the library of resources as the solution place for people in different stages in their careers.
[17:35] – Further discusses her vision for what role associations will play for members and why.
[18:02] – What advice would you give to other leaders who are struggling and want to bring others along to this new vision of learning? Cheryl shares the importance of thought leaders to provide you with the “what” so you can figure out the “how”.
[21:04] – Personally, where do you look for inspiration and what are your own habits as a lifelong learner? Cheryl tells about her love of learning, vacations, and the importance of reading on a variety of topics to learn different perspectives. She shares specific examples of how that has helped her in her career.
[24:45] –Where to find information on MSAE and how to connect with Cheryl.
[26:20] – Wrap Up.
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[27:50] – Sign off
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