"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.
In each episode, we will sit down with influential voices from the association world to discuss their experiences and insights. We'll dig deep into the issues and opportunities facing associations today, and explore the ways that leaders are shaping the industry's future.
Kellen's Website: https://www.kellencompany.com/europe/
Kellen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kellen-company-europe/
AI In Associations: Moving Past the Curiosity Phase | 16 | Associations Unplugged
A summary here, a LinkedIn post there. Most associations have started experimenting with AI. But how many have made it part of the way they actually work?In this episode of Associations Unplugged, Anna Gumbau joins Daniel Friedlaender, Senior Vice President and Head of CCIA’s European office, and Gert Meylemans, Vice President of Kellen Europe, to discuss how associations are putting AI into practice and where they are still missing opportunities.From analysing legislation and testing advocacy arguments to cutting down on admin, our guests share how their teams use AI, where they draw the line and why human judgement remains essential.We also explore a bigger question: when members can access information in seconds, what makes an association worth belonging to?In this conversation:• Moving from individual experimentation to adoption across the organisation.• Protecting confidential information and checking AI outputs.• Using AI to prepare for challenging interviews and policy debates.• Keeping a distinctive voice when everyone has access to the same tools.• Rethinking member value through speed, expertise and personal connections.--"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.In each episode, we will sit down with influential voices from the association world to discuss their experiences and insights. We'll dig deep into the issues and opportunities facing associations today, and explore the ways that leaders are shaping the industry's future.
25 Jun 2026
Beyond the Position Paper: How Associations Win With Narrative | 15 | Associations Unplugged
In Brussels, evidence used to be enough. Not anymore.In this episode of Associations Unplugged, host Anna Gumbau sits down with Gökşen Çalışkan (Senior B2B Advisor at Euractiv) and Simona Romeo (Associate Director at Kellen Europe) to unpack why narrative has become essential for associations that want to stand out, stay relevant, and actually move policy without losing their credibility.They get into what narrative really means (and how it's different from talking points), why policy communication in Brussels has become more political, and how the rise of the attention economy and populist movements has changed the rules for everyone in the bubble.In this conversation we uncover:- The three building blocks of a strong narrative: audience centricity, emotional arc, and systemic delivery- Why your association is not the main character of its own story- The five things great narratives have in commonWhy "safe communication is invisible communication" - The two habits associations should drop immediately- How to balance technical precision with emotion without oversimplifying---"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.In each episode, we will sit down with influential voices from the association world to discuss their experiences and insights. We'll dig deep into the issues and opportunities facing associations today, and explore the ways that leaders are shaping the industry's future.
13 Apr 2026
Geopolitics Is Shifting. How Can Associations Adapt? | 14 | Associations Unplugged
In this episode of Associations Unplugged, we go straight into one of the biggest shifts shaping Europe right now: geopolitics.
The world is changing fast. Conflicts are escalating, alliances are shifting, and the European Union is being pushed to act like a global power while still figuring out its own position.
So what does this mean for associations, businesses, and the industries they represent?
We're joined by geopolitical analyst Shada Islam and Kellen Europe's Managing Director Maria Teresa Scardigli to unpack what is really happening behind the scenes.
We talk about:- Whether the EU is truly a geopolitical power or still stuck in someone else’s shadow
- The real impact of global conflicts on supply chains, energy, and business stability
- Why trade might be Europe’s strongest weapon
- How associations need to rethink strategy, governance, and influence
- The growing importance of creativity, agility, and collaboration
- Why inclusivity and credibility are becoming non negotiable
We also dive into how leaders like Ursula von der Leyen have shaped Europe’s geopolitical direction, and how global tensions, including the role of Donald Trump, are redefining transatlantic relations.
If you work in associations, policy, or public affairs, this conversation will give you a sharper lens on what is coming next and how to stay relevant.
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"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.
In each episode, we will sit down with influential voices from the association world to discuss their experiences and insights. We'll dig deep into the issues and opportunities facing associations today, and explore the ways that leaders are shaping the industry's future.
11 Dec 2025
Future-Proofing 2026: What Must Associations Prepare For? | 13 | Associations Unplugged
2026 will be a milestone year for the EU, and this episode will help associations professionals to prepare for it.In this conversation with Sophie Pornschlegel (European Policy Centre), we break down the political and geopolitical trends that will shape the next EU cycle. From defence and competitiveness to the EU budget, industrial strategy, sovereignty narratives, and national elections, we explore what associations and EU professionals must pay attention to, and why starting early matters.This episode is your guide to looking beyond the crisis mode and understanding the deeper shifts that will influence funding, regulation, and strategic priorities across all EU sectors.---"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.In each episode, we will sit down with influential voices from the association world to discuss their experiences and insights. We'll dig deep into the issues and opportunities facing associations today, and explore the ways that leaders are shaping the industry's future.
12 Nov 2025
Built to Last: How to Future-Proof Your Association | 12 | Associations Unplugged
What does it really take for associations to stay relevant in a world that won’t stop changing?In this episode of Associations Unplugged, host Anna Gumbau sits down with Giles Dickson, outgoing CEO of WindEurope, and Nele Devolder, Senior Vice President at Kellen Europe, to explore how associations can reinvent themselves, deliver lasting value, and thrive amid disruption. From balancing member interests with innovation, to leading through uncertainty, Giles and Nele share candid insights from decades of experience... and what Giles would tell his successor about the future of associations.Expect a conversation that’s honest, a little provocative, and full of practical takeaways for anyone trying to make their organisation built to last.--"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.In each episode, we will sit down with influential voices from the association world to discuss their experiences and insights. We'll dig deep into the issues and opportunities facing associations today, and explore the ways that leaders are shaping the industry's future.
9 Jul 2025
What’s next for trade associations? | 11 | Associations Unplugged
Live recording of Associations Unplugged with Maria Teresa Scardigli and João Sousa, exploring the latest trends shaping the future of trade associations.
16 Jun 2025
Transparency in EU Lobbying: What It Means for Trade Associations | 10 | Associations Unplugged
Emma Brown, President of SEAP, discusses transparency for EU lobbyists and trade associations in Brussels, including the Transparency Register and public trust, in an interview on advocacy responsibilities.
6 May 2025
How to Run Innovative Campaigns for Trade Associations | 09 | Associations Unplugged
This episode features Maria Linkova Nijs from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), discussing how trade associations can run effective and innovative campaigns. Topics include digital strategy, public affairs, policy alignment, and lessons from the automotive sector. The episode concludes with Simona Romeo from Kellen, who explains how Kellen supports associations in building and executing successful campaigns.
27 Mar 2025
Driving Change: How NGOs Represent Public Health Priorities | 08 | Associations Unplugged
Werner Schultink (Iodine Global Network) and Adriana Nosewicz (Kellen Europe) discuss how NGOs influence public health policy, with a focus on iodine deficiency in Europe. The episode explores findings from the WHO/IGN report and highlights advocacy strategies to address shifting dietary habits and protect population health.
15 Jan 2025
Global Trends in Association Management | 07 | Associations Unplugged
In this episode of "Associations Unplugged," Travis Rush, CEO of Kellen, and Maria Teresa, Managing Director of Kellen Europe, share their perspectives on trends, challenges, and opportunities for trade associations in Europe and the U.S.
The conversation covers Kellen’s approach to addressing regulatory requirements, adapting to evolving member expectations, and using technology to support association management.
Tune in for insights and practical approaches to effective association management.
19 Nov 2024
Balancing Policy and Business in Sustainable Agriculture | 06 | Associations Unplugged
Olivier De Matos and Nele Devolder discuss how CropLife Europe's agility and technological diversity bridge policy and business objectives, driving innovation in sustainable agriculture.
2 Sept 2024
Perspectives on Democracy and Strategic Engagement | 05 | Associations Unplugged
In this episode of "Perspectives on Democracy and Strategic Engagement," we host Tom Vandenkendelaere, Former MEP (EPP Group), and Adriana Nosewicz, Director & Practice Leader, Food & Nutrition.
Tom shares his insights on the recent election results, discussing strategic engagement and effective lobbying practices with MEPs.
Adriana explores the crucial role of industry organizations in supporting democratic values, highlighting ethical advocacy and constructive stakeholder engagement. Tune in for expert perspectives on how to navigate the intersection of industry, democracy, and policymaking.
2 Jul 2024
Post-Election Strategies for Trade Associations to Boost Influence | 04 | Associations Unplugged
"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.
Guests:
1. Kristian Ruby: Secretary General at Eurelectric
2. Giorgio Corbetta: Director and Cluster Leader: Energy, Cleantech and Construction at Kellen
3. Olga Henkele: Association Manager at Kellen
4. Ana Rivas: Public Affairs Manager at Kellen
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
17 Apr 2024
How Associations Drive EU Elections | 03 | Associations Unplugged
"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.
Guests:
1. Daniel Bond: Publishing Director at The Parliament Magazine
2. Céline Benini: Secretary General at AMFEP - The Association of Manufacturers and Formulators of Enzyme Products
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
1 Feb 2024
Promoting Industry Sustainability without Compromising Authenticity | 02 | Associations Unplugged
"Associations Unplugged” Podcast by Kellen is a straightforward podcast that explores the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of association leaders and industry experts.
Guests: Jori Ringman - Director General at CEPI - The European Forest Fibre and Paper Industry
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
24 Nov 2023
Finding Your Leadership Path | 01 | Associations Unplugged
Guests:
Part 1:
Wouter Vermeulen - Senior Director Public Policy Europe at the Coca-Cola Company
Maria Teresa Scardigli - Managing Director at Kellen
Part 2:
Paul Voss: Director General European Aluminium
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
Socials:
(https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-teresa-scardigli-1819211a/ )Maria's Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-teresa-scardigli-1819211a/ )
Wouter's LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/wouter-vermeulen-b87b708/)
(https://www.linkedin.com/in/wouter-vermeulen-b87b708/)Paul Voss's Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-voss-43b34437/)
Paul Walsh's Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-walsh-b729181a/)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
2,203
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
41
Social presence
0
YouTube
68
Engagement
32
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