The Power of Empathy and Authentic Connection in Leadership

In this episode, host Jarrod A. Clabaugh, CAE, welcomes Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CEO of Vista Cova and a recognized leader in association management and facilitation. Lowell reflects on his path from education into the association world, sharing how curiosity, intentionality, and authentic connection shape effective leadership. The discussion explores the growing need for genuine community in a noisy digital era, the rising importance of personalized communication, and the future of inclusive, equitable leadership. Lowell also underscores the vital role nonprofit associations play in advancing missions without partisanship, and he offers practical advice on empathetic listening and building deeper, more meaningful relationships. This episode is sponsored by the OSAP Foundation. OSAP Observations is produced by Association Briefings.