Leadership, ROI, and the Changing Expectations of Membership

In this episode, host Jarrod A. Clabaugh, CAE, sits down with Tom Balzer, CAE, president and CEO of the Ohio Trucking Association, to discuss his journey into the association world and the leadership lessons he’s learned along the way. Tom reflects on how fraternity involvement first introduced him to organized leadership and service, eventually leading to a career in motor carrier and trade associations. The conversation explores how the industry—and the broader association landscape—has evolved over the years, including changes in civil discourse, member engagement, and growing expectations around immediate return on investment. He also shares personal insights on balancing work and life, learning the value of saying no, and finding fulfillment in developing staff and helping boards think strategically about the future. Along the way, Tom makes the case for more “blue ocean” thinking in strategic planning and offers a grounded perspective on AI, viewing it as a valuable tool rather than an imminent threat. This episode is sponsored by Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts. OSAP Observations is produced by Association Briefings.