WWPR Panel: How Associations Lead with Strategic Storytelling

<p>In this special episode of the <em>Association Insights Podcast powered by OnWrd &amp; UpWrd</em>, host Colleen Gallagher shares a live panel discussion from Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) on how associations can use strategic storytelling to build trust, strengthen member engagement, and drive organizational results.</p><p>Joining Colleen are:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Courtney Rhodes</strong>, Head of News Media Relations, U.S. Travel Association</p></li><li><p><strong>Jeanne Metzger</strong>, Vice President, Membership, Marketing &amp; Analytics, Software &amp; Information Industry Association (SIIA)</p></li><li><p><strong>Alexandra Bradley</strong>, Director of Communications &amp; Marketing, American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR)</p></li></ul><p>Together, they share practical strategies for helping associations move beyond promoting programs to becoming trusted, strategic voices during times of uncertainty, rapid technological change, and shifting member expectations.</p><p>🎧 Whether you lead communications, marketing, membership, or strategy, this episode offers actionable ideas for building trust, creating stories that resonate, and positioning communications as a driver of organizational success.</p><p><strong>Key Highlights</strong></p><p><strong>Communications as a Business Driver:</strong> Why communications deserves a seat at the leadership table—and how it supports membership, revenue, advocacy, and reputation.</p><p><strong>Leading Through Uncertainty:</strong> How associations can communicate with confidence, avoid reactive messaging, and build trust during challenging moments.</p><p><strong>Tell Better Stories, Not More Stories:</strong> Why audience segmentation, member insights, and authentic storytelling outperform constant promotion.</p><p><strong>Putting Members at the Center:</strong> Learn how member experiences, volunteer voices, and community stories create stronger engagement than organizational messaging alone.</p><p><strong>Using AI with Intention:</strong> Practical ways AI can improve efficiency while preserving the authenticity that only people can provide.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Stay Connected: </strong>Subscribe to <em>The Association Insights Podcast powered by OnWrd &amp; UpWrd</em> on <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5dhc49SHcWAAm9wbVFcGAD"><u>Spotify</u></a>, <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-association-100-podcast/id1739260875"><u>Apple Podcasts</u></a> or <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhH-dPUFm13x4oX3XUGfNieuQ9c6AdhF3&si=X9pwO5TcH2SXe81G"><u>YouTube Podcasts</u></a> to ensure you never miss an episode.</p><p>Follow us on LinkedIn at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/onwrd-upwrd"><u>OnWrd &amp; UpWrd</u></a> for the latest in association trends and strategies.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Coming Soon:</strong> More conversations with association professionals sharing the trends, insights, and strategies helping associations navigate change, engage members, and lead with confidence. Stay tuned!</p>