{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Episode 96:  Steering the Future: How the Propeller Club is Transforming Maritime Associations with Maria Conatser","description":"Episode 96 Guest: Maria Conatser, President, International Propeller Club of the United States; Senior Financial Planning Analyst, Ingram Barge Company Episode Overview: Maria Conatser joins The Last Dinosaur to discuss the transformation needed for industry associations like the International Propeller Club to remain relevant in today\u2019s digital age. She highlights the strategies to attract and retain members, leverage social media, and modernize offerings while reflecting on the organization\u2019s rich history and ongoing contributions to the maritime industry. Key Points:  The Propeller Club\u2019s Legacy and Evolution:  Founded in 1922, the International Propeller Club is a cornerstone of maritime networking. Maria shares its evolution from informal luncheons to a global network with over 80 ports worldwide.   Adapting to the Digital Age:  Associations must embrace technology to meet the expectations of younger members, including virtual events, interactive websites, and engaging social media campaigns.    Transformative Leadership:  Maria\u2019s vision for revitalization includes expanding international chapters, strengthening government advocacy, and fostering collaboration with like-minded organizations.   Impact of the Pandemic:  COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of digital tools, enabling global connections through virtual meetings and webinars. This shift created opportunities to reach wider audiences.   Engaging the Next Generation:  To attract younger maritime professionals, the Propeller Club is diversifying its offerings, from social events to educational webinars, and addressing workforce development challenges.   Workforce Development and Retention:  Maria emphasizes the need for improving the industry's perception, providing connectivity and work-life balance for seafarers, and aligning with societal values to attract new talent.    Strengthening International Relations:  The Propeller Club\u2019s intentional push for international growth includes new chapters in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Norway, and more, signaling its commitment to a global maritime strategy.    Leveraging Social Media:  A robust digital presence is key to staying relevant. Maria shares the Propeller Club\u2019s ongoing efforts to modernize its website and social media strategies.   The Future of Maritime Advocacy:  Addressing \u201csea blindness,\u201d Maria calls for greater public awareness about maritime\u2019s essential role and its environmental advantages in global trade.    Special Mention: Christopher Aversano\u2019s podcast is proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week, coming in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration! Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you\u2019ve found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference! ","author_name":"The Last Dinosaur - Maritime Shipping In The Digital Age","author_url":"http:\/\/sites.libsyn.com\/404561\/site","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/34824230\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/183337830"}