Better By Association

Building Connection Through Travel and Leadership

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE sits down with Erika Boyd, president & CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, for a conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the unexpected paths that often lead people into the association world. Boyd reflects on her “fall-in” journey into associations after responding to a newspaper ad, and how her career evolved from communications and advocacy into executive leadership, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating her transition into the CEO role. Along the way, she shares lessons learned from mentors and contrasting leadership styles, emphasizing the importance of empowering teams, trusting employees, and supporting professional growth opportunities. The conversation also explores the broader impact of travel and tourism as both a storytelling industry and a major economic driver that touches countless connected sectors. Boyd discusses how tourism often serves as an early indicator of consumer sentiment and why authentic, in-person experiences continue to matter in both travel and associations. Steven and Erika also highlight the upcoming LeadHERship Live event, taking place June 9–10 in The Woodlands, a joint initiative designed to inspire, connect, and support women leaders across the travel and association communities. This episode is sponsored by Visit Lubbock [https://visitlubbock.org/].  Better by Association is produced by Association Briefings [https://www.freeman.com/].

Turning Opportunity into Impact: Leadership, Adaptability, and Community in Action

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Jancy Darling, CEO of Darling Promo and TSAE Board member, for a conversation centered on entrepreneurship, adaptability, and the power of relationships in the association space. Jancy reflects on an unconventional career path that led her into associations and ultimately into building her own business, sharing how a willingness to say yes, learn quickly, and lean into opportunity became the foundation for growth. The conversation explores what it takes to scale a company from the ground up, and how trust, responsiveness, and long-term relationships can drive sustained success. The episode also dives into navigating uncertainty, as Jancy recounts leading her team through the challenges of COVID by making difficult decisions, pivoting quickly, and finding new ways to serve clients. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of resilience, accountability, and community—particularly the role associations play in both professional growth and giving back. At its core, this episode is about building something meaningful, staying adaptable in the face of change, and investing in the relationships that make long-term success possible. Better by Association is produced by Association Briefings [https://www.freeman.com/].   Show Notes Jancy Darling is currently the CEO of Darling Promo, a promotional products provider for a wide range of industries, including many associations and association suppliers. Since, 2014, Darling Promo has been privileged to serve as TSAE’s Endorsed Provider for promotional products. Jancy with the help of her amazing team built her small business into a multi-million-dollar company by always keeping customer service and competitive pricing as her top priorities. Jancy believes relationships and trust are the cornerstones of any successful business. Jancy currently serves on the TSAE Board and hopes her entrepreneurial perspective will help TSAE continue to thrive. Jancy is married to Michael Hammond who keeps her life interesting by introducing her to his many passions and hobbies including sailing, surfing, skiing, rafting and white water paddleboarding.

Rethinking Programs, Credentials and Membership Growth

In this episode, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert welcome Kristen Philips, MBA, CAE, IOM, executive director with Stringfellow Management Group and a TSAE Board member, for a candid conversation on leadership, strategy, and sustainability in association management. Kristen reflects on her unexpected path into the profession and shares lessons learned from two decades working with association management companies. She discusses practical approaches to addressing budget deficits, including evaluating underperforming programs, sunsetting outdated initiatives, and reimagining costly products through more efficient digital solutions. The conversation explores leading through constant change with focused annual roadmaps, transparent communication, and project management tools that help align staff and board expectations. Kristen also offers guidance on launching and managing credential programs, growing membership without devaluing benefits, and navigating leadership challenges with confidence and humility. The episode concludes with her perspective on the value of staying engaged with TSAE to strengthen credibility, stay current on best practices, and build meaningful professional connections.   Better by Association is produced by Association Briefings [https://www.freeman.com/].

From Tradition to Transformation: How Associations Must Evolve to Stay Relevant

In our Season 4 premiere of Better By Association, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Jodi Ann Ray, CAE, CCE, IOM, executive director of the Texas Society of CPAs, and Eric Curtis of Curtis Strategy, to discuss the major shifts expected in associations over the next decade. Together, they explore how geographic boundaries are fading, why governance and strategic planning must evolve, and what the future of membership really looks like in an increasingly digital world. The conversation dives into career development as a core value proposition, the impact of digital transformation, and the growing expectation that associations deliver relevance across an entire professional lifecycle. They challenge leaders to ask “why,” rethink long-standing models, and adopt innovative approaches—while staying grounded in mission and purpose.    Better By Association is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

Unwrapping Growth and Confidence with Juan Bendana

In this special holiday bonus episode of Better By Association, hosts Steven Stout, FASAE, CAE, and Katy Markert sit down with Juan Bendana, motivational speaker, confidence expert, and opening keynote speaker for the 2025 New Ideas Annual Conference. Together, they unwrap the power of embracing uncertainty, strengthening trust, and leading with authenticity—timely reminders as we close out the year and look ahead to new beginnings. Juan draws on his work with high-performing teams to share how curiosity, energy management, and individual motivation can spark meaningful growth. The episode ends with a warm reflection on the importance of community and connection within associations, especially during seasons of change and celebration. This episode is sponsored by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com].   Better By Association is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com].