An original podcast series from the Michigan Society of Association Executives where we explore the creative solutions achieved by associations navigating today’s turbulent business, regulatory, and social landscapes and the people who lead them.
Building Michigan’s Talent Pipeline Through Community Colleges
In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus speaks with Brandy Johnson, president of the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA) and founder of the Michigan College Access Network, about community colleges as key drivers of Michigan’s talent pipeline and economy. Johnson shares her path from Arizona to Michigan, her work in education policy under Governors Granholm and Whitmer, and her perspective as a first-generation college graduate. She explains why affordability and risk are fueling a “community college moment,” highlights dual enrollment and adult learners, and outlines the three-part funding model for keeping tuition low while warning that flat state operational funding pressures tuition. Johnson also describes MCCA’s lean staff, 31 community and tribal colleges, a 62-member board, collaboration with other states including helping create MassReconnect, and a 2022 compromise expanding bachelor’s-in-nursing access via university partners on community college campuses.
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
25 Aug 2026
The Cost of Coverage: How MAHP Is Tackling Healthcare Affordability
In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus welcomes Dominick Pallone, executive director of the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP), to discuss his path from issue advocacy in Lansing to association leadership and the healthcare policy issues affecting Michigan health plans and the people they serve. Pallone explores MAHP’s top priorities, including Medicaid and healthcare affordability, and the potential impact of federal policy changes on eligibility, coverage and costs. He discusses concerns that administrative requirements could lead to Medicaid coverage losses and increased uncompensated care, as well as the growing affordability challenges facing small employers amid rising premiums and expiring premium tax credits. Pallone also shares MAHP’s approach to coalition building and finding common ground among diverse stakeholders, and explains why greater transparency, particularly around consumer benefits, pharmaceutical pricing and advertising, gives him reason for optimism about the future of healthcare.
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
26 May 2026
Modernizing Member Support in a Changing Hearing Care Landscape
In this episode of Insight, host Ariel Backus speaks with Alissa Parady, CAE, executive director of the International Hearing Society (IHS), about her leadership journey and the evolution of the hearing healthcare profession during a period of significant industry change. Alissa reflects on her transition from government affairs into the executive director role and shares major initiatives undertaken during her first four years leading the IHSy, including the purchase and renovation of a new headquarters, modernization of internal systems through a CRM update and learning management system, and the launch of a redesigned website. The conversation also explores how the IHS has supported members through FDA-driven industry shifts, including the introduction of over-the-counter hearing aids, while continuing to advocate for hearing aid specialists and patient-centered care. Alissa discusses the organization’s efforts to strengthen workforce recruitment and professional development through initiatives such as the Help Hearing campaign, a dedicated career center, streamlined licensure preparation resources, and free continuing education opportunities. She also shares insights into building legislative influence through consistency, relationship-building, data, and advocacy focused on patient outcomes.
MSAE Insight is produced by Association Briefings.
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 17 / 100
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Quality
23
Social presence
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YouTube
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Engagement
27
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Books guests
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Questions about MSAE Insight
Who hosts MSAE Insight?
Ariel Backus host the show. Published by Michigan Society of Association Executives.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does MSAE Insight take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
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