In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Liz Peuster, the Chief Communications Officer of the South Carolina Association of CPAs (SCACPA). Liz brings over two decades of experience in association management, communications, and technology integration. The episode looks at the impact of AI tools on the nonprofit sector, particularly in associations, and highlights how Liz’s innovative approach has led her organization through successful AI adoption.

Josh and Liz address the challenges and responsibilities that come with adopting AI, particularly around ethics and data privacy. Liz shares her straightforward approach to responsible AI use: treating AI like any other technology and ensuring sensitive data remains secure. She emphasizes the need for training and education, both for staff and association members, to demystify AI and create trust within the organization. According to Liz, education is the backbone of successful AI integration, and associations must invest in upskilling their teams to stay relevant in an increasingly digital world.

The discussion further explores the potential of AI as a tool for building lasting member relationships and the shift in focus for associations away from commoditized content and education to the more human-centric aspects of advocacy and community support. Liz underscores the necessity of embracing AI not just for operational efficiency but as a strategy for remaining relevant and competitive.

Liz offers practical advice for organizations looking to start their AI journey, emphasizing the importance of starting small and scaling up. She suggests identifying routine, repetitive tasks where AI can make an immediate impact and build from there. Throughout the episode, she remains optimistic about the future of AI in associations, stressing that with the right balance of human oversight and technological adoption, AI can become an invaluable partner in advancing an organization’s mission and delivering value to its members.

Key Topics:

• How AI tools can boost operational efficiency in associations
• The role of Custom GPTs in improving member engagement and communication
• The human element and ethical considerations in AI adoption
• Education and training as vital aspects of AI integration
• Practical steps for associations to begin their AI journey
• The evolving landscape of AI in nonprofit organizations and its promising future

Guest Bio: Liz Peuster, CAE, is an accomplished association professional with over 20 years of experience in communications, membership, and technology integration. As the Chief Communications Officer at SCACPA, she champions association initiatives, tells inspiring member stories, and plays a pivotal role in advocacy efforts. Liz has led SCACPA’s team through the adoption of AI tools aimed at boosting operational efficiency and delivering enhanced value to members. Her career is marked by notable achievements in membership growth, innovative tech initiatives, and strategic leadership across prominent associations. A Certified Association Executive (CAE), Liz is dedicated to driving organizational success through technology-driven advancements in the association sector.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to AI in Associations and Nonprofits
• 02:04 – Efficiency Gains from Adopting AI Tools
• 05:52 – Using Custom GPTs for Enhanced Member Engagement
• 10:11 – The Human Element in Technology Integration
• 14:08 – Ethical and Responsible AI Use
• 17:54 – The Slow Adoption of AI in the Association Space
• 21:48 – Importance of Education and Training for AI Integration
• 26:07 – Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Nonprofits
• 30:09 – Practical Tips for Associations Starting with AI

Resources:

• Learn more about SCACPA: https://www.scacpa.org/
• Follow Liz Peuster on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-peuster/

Connect with Josh Hirsch:

• Website: http://theaidude.ai/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/