This Week on the Convene Podcast: Inside a Finance Officers Gathering, Rebuilding Association Value with Michelle Mason, and Our Favorite Stories of 2025

From how NAFOA blends tech and tradition to boost engagement, to Michelle Mason’s insights on future-ready associations, to the Convene editors’ favorite stories of 2025, here’s what’s new on the Convene Podcast.

Author: Magdalina Atanassova       

Here’s what’s new on the Convene Podcast this week.

🎙️ Convene Article: Inside a Gathering of Finance Officers
In April, the Native American Finance Officers Association held its 43rd annual conference in New Orleans, marrying tech and tradition to maximize engagement. Written and read by Michelle Russell, editor in chief at Convene.

🎙️ Convene Series: Michelle Mason on Rebuilding Association Value: Revenue Models, Retention, and “Conscious Inclusion”

Associations are under pressure to grow revenue, retain members, and stay relevant—often with fewer resources and more uncertainty. In this conversation, ASAE President & CEO Michelle Mason explains why the old business model is over and what’s working now: prioritizing retention, listening to the real “voice of the member,” reading behavioral data (not just surveys), and designing hybrid, distributed experiences that keep engagement alive year-round. She also shares ASAE’s “conscious inclusion” approach to DEI amid polarization, how to cultivate next-gen leaders without losing institutional wisdom, and why future-focused leadership means taking smart risks on behalf of your community.

🎙️ Convene Talk: The Stories We Loved in 2025: Fast Tracks, Inclusive Awards, Accessibility Wins and Everyday Work Joy

In this episode, the Convene Editors are swapping their favorite Convene stories from 2025 — from events that redefined attendee engagement to stories that challenged how we think about inclusion, accessibility, and workplace culture. Join Jen, Michelle, Barbara, and Kate for a behind-the-scenes look at the reporting that inspired them most — and a glimpse at what’s next for Convene.


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