Top 10 Books Association Leaders Should Read in 2025
From refining strategy to reimagining leadership and member engagement, today’s association leaders are tackling complex challenges—and they’re finding insight and inspiration in the right books.
We asked ten association executives and thought leaders—each of whom appeared on the Association Adviser podcast—to share one book that’s shaped their leadership, problem-solving, and change-driven approach. These aren’t just good reads—they’re field-tested guides to modern leadership in the association space, shared without affiliate links or sales pitches—just genuine recommendations.
Recommended by: Michael Reed, American Fence Association
Recommended for: Associations looking to innovate with focus and intention
In our conversation about leveraging AI and technology to modernize operations, Michael Reed emphasized the importance of structure, focus, and intentionality. That’s exactly where Measure What Matters delivers. The book explores how Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) create clarity around priorities—something Reed applied firsthand when transforming the American Fence Association’s back-office systems, education programs, and member engagement strategy. For any association looking to innovate without getting overwhelmed, this book offers a roadmap to ensure every tool and tactic aligns with measurable goals.
Recommended by: Michelle Mason, ASAE
Recommended for: Associations working to build a resilient, inclusive culture
In our discussion on building inclusive, resilient leadership, Michelle Mason spoke about the importance of creating cultures that empower every voice and prioritize long-term impact. 7 Measures of Success, a cornerstone publication from ASAE, echoes these values, outlining the traits that set truly remarkable associations apart. The book’s emphasis on visionary thinking, member-centricity, and values alignment closely reflects the conscious inclusion work Michelle leads at ASAE, including initiatives like ReadyMe. If you’re looking to build a collaborative, high-performing culture that stands the test of time, this book offers a blueprint rooted in real association success stories.
Recommended by: Aaron Wolowiec, Event Garde
Recommended for: Associations reevaluating pricing models for equity and engagement
Aaron Wolowiec made it clear: pricing isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a strategic communication tool. Pricing for Associations reinforces this idea by helping leaders understand how pricing models influence perceived value, accessibility, and inclusion. Whether you’re developing event tiers, sponsorship packages, or membership dues, the book equips you to make choices that support engagement across diverse member needs. For anyone aiming to make both attendees and sponsors feel seen, heard, and valued, this book offers more than numbers—it offers insight into how pricing can shape community.
Recommended by: Evan Sparks, American Bankers Association
Recommended for: Associations improving member communications and messaging
In our episode on transforming member communications, Evan Sparks emphasized that great messaging starts with something often overlooked: the ability to truly listen. You’re Not Listening dives into the art and science of listening as a strategic advantage. Evan applies this principle across writing, editing, and campaign development at ABA. Whether you’re creating content, launching a campaign, or refining your organization’s voice, this book is a powerful reminder that understanding your audience begins with silence, not sound. It’s a vital read for any association professional seeking to build trust and relevance through better communication.
Recommended by: Shan Haugabrook, Atlanta Apartment Association 
Recommended for: Associations aiming to lead with authenticity and courage
Shan Haugabrook’s leadership approach centers on showing up for members with authenticity and purpose, not just delivering value, but deeply serving. Dare to Lead captures that spirit, providing a playbook for leading with empathy, trust, and courage. Brené Brown’s framework aligns with Shan’s efforts at the Atlanta Apartment Association to strengthen member relationships and foster long-term engagement. If your goal is to build a culture where people feel supported and seen, this book will challenge and equip you to lead from the heart without sacrificing accountability.
Recommended by: Meredith Martino, Women in Government
Recommended for: Associations rebranding with purpose and inclusivity
Meredith Martino understands that rebranding isn’t just about logos or colors—it’s about redefining the story you tell and who gets to tell it. The Moment of Lift speaks directly to that idea, illustrating how empowerment and visibility can transform not just individual lives but entire systems. As Meredith shared during our episode, a successful rebrand must reflect the organization’s values and the people it serves. For leaders rethinking their brand identity, this book offers both inspiration and a reminder: the most powerful stories are the ones that lift others up.
Recommended by: Mike Skiados, National Association of Professional Insurance Agents
Recommended for: Associations navigating complex internal or external power dynamics
Mike Skiados spoke about the importance of understanding members’ evolving expectations and leading with intentionality in a crowded, fast-moving landscape. The 48 Laws of Power provides a sharp lens for navigating the often-unspoken dynamics that exist in boardrooms, advocacy work, and member relations. While provocative, Robert Greene’s insights offer a strategic framework for leaders working to influence change, communicate value, and build lasting trust. For associations aiming to sharpen their positioning and guide organizational growth with clarity, this book can help decode the power structures that shape perception and impact.
Recommended by: Steven Stout & Katy Markert, Texas Society of Association Executives
Recommended for: Associations focused on empowering staff, volunteers, and members
Steven Stout and Katy Markert emphasized that the heart of a strong association lies in its ability to elevate other members, partners, and staff through connection and collaboration. Multipliers captures this mindset perfectly, showing how the best leaders don’t have all the answers; they create the conditions for others to thrive. That “better together” philosophy isn’t just TSAE’s motto—it’s a guiding principle that fuels their storytelling, event strategy, and community-building work. For leaders looking to unlock the full potential of their teams and membership, this book is both a strategy and a mindset.
Recommended by: Jennifer McClennon, National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
Recommended for: Associations managing high-stakes dialogue and decision-making
Jennifer McClennon spoke about leading with empathy and empowerment, values shaped by her background in both healthcare and business strategy. Crucial Conversations is a practical extension of that approach, offering tools to navigate high-stakes discussions with clarity, courage, and compassion. Whether you’re managing a team, nurturing partnerships, or advocating for mission-driven work, this book helps you create space for honest dialogue and build deeper trust. It’s an essential read for association professionals who want to lead from the heart, without losing sight of outcomes.
Recommended by: Bill Rowan, National Asphalt Pavement Association
Recommended for: Associations looking to improve content strategy and voice
Bill Rowan’s approach to rebranding at NAPA was rooted in clarity, consistency, and member-centric storytelling—all of which align seamlessly with Ann Handley’s Everybody Writes. This book serves as a modern manual for communicating effectively in a noisy world, something Bill prioritized during NAPA’s transformation. Whether you’re overhauling your brand, launching a campaign, or fine-tuning your messaging, Handley’s insights offer practical guidance for creating content that connects. This book is a must-read if your association is serious about elevating how it speaks to its audience.
Want to Hear More?
Each of these titles was recommended by a guest on the Association Adviser podcast. Hear the full conversations to discover how today’s association leaders are tackling complex challenges—and the ideas that are helping them lead with purpose. Listen to all the episodes here.
