Real Conversations, Real Connections: Reflections from MACMA Chicago

Last month, I (Natalie Sorge) had the honor of speaking at MACMA’s Monetization Strategies for Audience Growth and Revenue Innovation event in Chicago—an inspiring gathering of media and marketing minds who are shaping the future of audience engagement.

Sharing the stage with Joyce Rulka Neth (Consultant) and Alison Martin (Modern Healthcare), we dove into how multi-channel strategy, editorial alignment, and segmentation can transform audiences into loyal communities. The conversation was rich, practical, and full of energy—exactly the kind of dialogue that moves the needle.

But arguably the best part?

Connecting face-to-face with vendors, clients, and new industry peers. In a world that’s increasingly digital, these real-life moments of connection remind us why we do what we do. Relationships matter. Conversations matter. Community matters.

A few personal highlights?

Poetry Foundation Visit

Visiting the stunning offices of the Poetry Foundation and getting an insider’s tour from colleague and friend, Whitney Hallberg. The space is a work of art in itself, and the mission behind it is even more beautiful. It was a moment of calm, creativity, and inspiration tucked into a whirlwind week.

Chicago Cubs Game

Joining Blake and Andrew from the eMags team at a Chicago Cubs game - while the Cubbies didn’t win, the company and conversation made up for it. And if you have the chance to visit the Catalina Club, 10/10 recommend (try the boneless wings!).

I left Chicago feeling energized, inspired, and deeply grateful—for the collabs, the convos, and the community that continues to grow around us.

Let’s keep the momentum moving in the right direction!