Analyst Talk - Motion Commotion: Voting to Advance IACA’s Innovative Ideas

Leapodcasts

Episode: 00267 Released on May 19, 2025 Description: In this special Leapodcasts Deep Dive, host Jason Elder moderates a timely and thought-provoking panel featuring Mindy Duong, Noah Fritz, and Deb Piehl, centered on the IACA’s brand-new Innovative Ideas Forum. This episode explores the origins of the initiative, outlines the submission and voting process, and examines the motions that could reshape how the association governs, grows, and communicates.

Listeners will get the inside scoop on why this forum was created, how it aligns with IACA’s ongoing bylaws revisions, and what’s at stake with each submitted idea. From member engagement and motion thresholds to international representation and transparency, the panel debates the future of participatory governance in a global association.

The motions now up for vote will only move forward if at least 735 members vote in favor—a 10% threshold of the total membership. That means your vote matters. Even more important: encourage your peers to vote, share the link, and help make this process a success. These motions impact the entire membership, and the future of the IACA depends on active participation.

Whether you're new to the IACA or a longtime member, this episode offers a candid, constructive conversation on organizational evolution, and highlights the importance of creating space for member voices in shaping the future of our profession.

🔗 Explore the forum and vote on ideas:
https://community.iaca.net/discuss/viewcategory/140

🗓️ Key Date:
Voting Period Starts: May 19, 2025 at 09:00 CST
Voting Period Ends: May 26, 2025 at 23:59 CST

[Note: Description produced by ChatGPT.]

Name Drops:
Ritchie Martinez (01:06:55), Mark Stallo/Steve Gottlieb (01:14:22), Dale Harris/Christopher Bruce/Susan Hammen Whitford (01:18:22)
Public Service Announcements:
Related Links:
Innovative Ideas Voting: TBA
IACA Innovative Ideas Forum: https://community.iaca.net/discuss/viewcategory/140
Association(s) Mentioned: IACA
Vendor(s) Mentioned:
Contact:
Transcript: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/nhhrmg7ike2aghff/IACAinnovativeIdeas2025_transcript.pdf
Podcast Writer:
Podcast Researcher:
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00:00:17 – Introduction
00:02:00 – Background on the New Process
Jason outlines the rationale behind the forum, how the initiative came about, and how members can participate.
00:03:36 – Member Spotlight: Noah’s Role in Sparking the Forum
Noah Fritz discusses his original inquiry to the Board and his first motion challenging the 10% voting threshold.
00:08:34 – Optimism and Early Feedback
Mindy and Jason reflect on the need for a longer timeline and improved visibility for future forums.
00:10:54 – Member Engagement and Apathy
Noah discusses voter turnout issues and the importance of consistent outreach and visibility.
00:13:26 – Deb Peele Joins & Shares Initial Thoughts
Deb offers perspective on innovation, governance complexity, and the importance of intentional feedback structures.
00:15:53 – Motion: Improve Motion Process
Noah proposes the development of a new online motion process, arguing that the current system conflicts with the IACA’s bylaws and established practices.
00:16:10 – Motion: Creating a Working Group to Review the Current State of Affairs
Noah presents his second motion calling for a research-based member working group to evaluate member’s values and opinions.
00:24:33 – Motion: Feedback Before Rule Changes
Jason introduces his motion advocating for a formal process allowing member feedback before new rules take effect.
00:34:48 – Motion: International and Regional Access
Mindy summarizes five motions submitted by John Anteyi, covering exam pricing, global access, and leadership development.
00:41:24 – Motion: Information Sharing and Transparency
Jason and panelists discuss the need for a member-accessible library of official documents and better communication.
00:50:48 – Motion: First-Timer Buddy System
Mindy shares her motion to connect first-time conference attendees with returning members through a buddy program.
00:56:42 – Motion: Open Committee Meetings
Jason advocates for allowing members to observe committee meetings to increase transparency and involvement.
01:02:36 – Motion: Restructuring the IACA
Noah presents his proposal for a working group to examine governance reforms, representation, and paid staff positions.
01:08:15 – Encouraging New Voices
Mindy raises the concern of avoiding “usual suspects” and ensuring new and diverse voices are included in leadership efforts.