Why the Future of IABC May Be Less Stage and More Circle

What happens when a conference has no keynote, no formal agenda, and no single expert at the front of the room?  The new IABC International Chair calls this an “unconference” model. And it’s one glimpse of how professional associations can evolve: by creating space for communicators to learn directly from one another. Also in this episode – why community, credibility, and connection matter more than ever in a profession being reshaped by AI, shrinking budgets, and rising expectation, the changing role of communicators in the age of AI, and why earned media, credible third-party sources, FAQs, and even the press release may be gaining new relevance in AI search.  Listen For4:13 Why was the ABC Designation Considered Tougher than the SCMP?5:34 How is AI Making Earned Media and Press Releases Valuable Again?8:09 Why Should Communicators Bring FAQ Pages Back for AI Search?9:56 Why are Chief Communications Officers Gaining a Stronger Seat at the C-Suite Table?17:11 How Is IABC Rethinking Chapters With Community Models and Unconferences?Guest: Richard Kies, Incoming IABC International ChairLinkedIn | Bio PageDoug DownsSubstack | Website | LinkedIn Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it.Apply to be a guest on the podcastConnect with usLinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | PinterestSend us a note about this episode. We'll reply and thank you on a future episodeSupport the show