KC IABC

Join GKC-PRSA and KCIABC for a special co-hosted happy hour featuring networking and a conversation on crisis communications with Mike Swenson, founder of Barkley Public Relations. With a career spanning broadcast journalism, a press secretary role and decades leading one of the region’s most respected PR firms, Mike brings hard-won perspective on what it takes to protect a reputation when it matters most.
https://kciabc.com/events/gkc-prsa-x-kciabc-happy-hour-with-mike-swenson

Charitable nonprofits change the world. And leadership drives the change. The Kauffman Foundation is accepting nominations for a Kansas City-area leader for its Uncommon Leader Visionary Award. The award winner receives $75,000 along with $150,000 for the associated organization. Learn more: https://www.kauffman.org/visionary-award

You don’t need the title to think (and act) like a communications strategist. Join us for “How to Think Like a CCO (Even Without the Title)” with Julie Masson, founder of the Nonprofit Comms Club. You'll walk away with practical tools and mindset shifts to help you plan strategically, build trust across your organization, and show up as the communications leader your team needs – no matter where you sit on the org chart.
Register: https://tinyurl.com/yhrajbfd
Details: Wednesday, June 10, 7:30-9 a.m., Messenger Coffee, 1624 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, Mo.

Special thanks to Brent Bowen for delivering practical insights at our lunch last week, hosted by the American Academy of Family Physicians. Brent explained, in actionable steps, how AI technologies can make audio and video production more accessible and affordable and expedite production timelines. Thank you Brent and everyone who joined us!

Join KC IABC for our next free Coffee Chat featuring Zach Arend – entrepreneur, leadership coach, and former rodeo competitor whose unconventional journey has yielded uncommon insights into career paths. Zach will explore how communicators can break free from cycles of overwork and self-doubt, lead with clarity and confidence, and influence others — regardless of title or role. Expect real stories, fresh perspective, and practical takeaways. This informal gathering is free, but registration is required.
👉 Register: kciabc.com/events/kc-iabc-coffee-chat

We’re seeking a virtuoso volunteer to serve as VP of finance on our 2026-2027 board. You’ll work integrally with our board and national organization to help us succeed in our mission to connect and educate communications pros in Kansas City. Training is provided. Contact Board President Natasha Rickel at [email protected]

This Just In! We have new opportunities to serve on our 2026-2027 board. Use your skills in one of three communications positions:
• Website manager
• Social media manager
• Email marketing manager
Build your skills and – more importantly – your professional relationships. Contact Board President Natasha Rickel at [email protected].

Has AI changed the audio and video production game? Many marketers interested in video and podcasting have held back due to the cost and commitment. But new technological possibilities are lowering the bar without reducing quality. Veteran marketer Brent Bowen will lead us through step-by-step podcast and video case studies, demonstrating how AI is making media creation more accessible. Register today for this Wednesday, May 13 event: https://kciabc.com/events/mastering-audio-video-with-artificial-intelligence