Podcast Summary: The Official BNI Podcast – Episode 926: Diamond Chapter Culture
Date: September 3, 2025
Host: Dr. Ivan Misner
Guest: Jason Avery, President of BNI Referral Masters (Florida)
Episode Overview
In this episode, Dr. Ivan Misner, founder of BNI, is joined by Jason Avery—president of the BNI Referral Masters, the largest chapter in Florida. The discussion centers on what it means to create and sustain a “Diamond Chapter” culture, the practices that drive extraordinary chapter growth, and how accountability, strategic inviting, and mutual support can translate into unprecedented business results. Jason shares actionable strategies and hard-earned wisdom from growing his chapter from 30 to 138 members and generating over $22 million in closed business annually.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. What is a Diamond Chapter?
(02:34) Jason Avery explains:
- Definitions:
- Titanium Chapter: 75+ members sustained for three months.
- Diamond Chapter: 100+ members sustained for three months.
- Growth Remark: Jason’s chapter recently reached 138 members, up from 30 at his start 14 years ago.
2. Three Pillars of Diamond Chapter Culture
A. Accountability
(03:14–06:32)
- Jason’s Experience: Only 4–5 out of 30 early members were actively driving results.
- Learning the System: Initially misguided advice led Jason to skip education, but as president, he realized the importance of understanding BNI systems.
- Performance Drivers: Five areas tracked—One-to-Ones, Continuing Education Units (CEUs), referrals, thank-you for closed business, and inviting.
- Accountability Measures:
- If members fell below standards in 3 out of 5 areas, they were put on probation.
- The process was non-punitive but candid—“let us help you, but you must improve to renew.”
- Notable Quote:
"You don't have to be mean to your friends. You just hold them accountable to the system we all signed up for."
– Jason Avery [05:31] - Ivan’s Analogy:
"You want to apply the rules more like Mandela than Attila… tough love, but you gotta apply it, otherwise it becomes a social group."
– Dr. Ivan Misner [05:39]
B. Strategic Inviting
(06:38–08:26)
- Data-Driven Recruiting: To reliably secure one visitor per month, members must invite 10 people weekly, as most will decline or not qualify.
- Motivation Methods:
- Weekly strategies: themed days, tag-team inviting, incentive (spiff) programs, and contests.
- Ivan on Inviting’s Impact:
"A chapter of 132 members is going to generate a whole lot more business than a chapter of 30 members."
– Dr. Ivan Misner [08:12] - Results: Chapter passed $22 million in closed business annually.
C. Showing Up for Each Other / “Giver’s Gain” Culture
(08:26–10:28)
- Differentiator: Large chapters thrive when members “show up for each other”—supporting events, charities, and each other’s businesses.
- Membership Criteria: Preference for high-energy, “extraordinary” contributors—people willing to engage and give.
- Clear Expectations:
- Two referrals and two One-to-Ones per week; two CEUs; 10–12 hours of weekly commitment.
"We're looking for those like-minded thoroughbreds… amazing in their business with the heart of giving."
– Jason Avery [09:07] - No Tolerance for Mediocrity:
"Why accept mediocrity when excellence is an option?"
– Dr. Ivan Misner [09:57]
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
-
On Motivation and Reciprocity:
"What you need to focus on is 100% the reciprocal relationship. Every person in that room knows 500 people that you don’t know."
– Jason Avery [10:28] -
On the Value of Strategic Inviting:
"If you actually bring these people to the chapter, you and all of the people in the room will make more than $1,500 a piece. The expansion of the group and the exponential increase that it creates with every new body…"
– Jason Avery [11:52] -
On Chapter Growth:
"Some people didn’t like that and they did leave the chapter. Some people stepped up their game … Everybody that came in new had a fresh energy, clear expectation, and they started driving us towards the stars."
– Jason Avery [06:01]
Timestamps of Important Segments
- 00:50–02:34: Introduction of Jason Avery, background, and chapter achievements
- 02:34–03:14: Defining Titanium and Diamond Chapters
- 03:14–06:32: Accountability as a foundation; performance tracking; applying rules
- 06:38–08:26: The strategy and mindset behind inviting; incentives and results
- 08:26–10:28: The importance of community, support, and high standards in chapter culture
- 10:28–12:24: Best advice for BNI members: focus on relationships, reciprocal intent, and motivational leadership
Advice for BNI Members
Jason’s Parting Wisdom:
- Focus on building reciprocal relationships through one-to-ones, not on direct sales.
- Leverage the collective network within the chapter for introductions.
- Motivate and set clear, inspiring expectations—members should want to join and contribute, not just fill a seat.
Final Thoughts
Jason Avery’s journey illustrates how clarity of expectations, consistent accountability, dynamic recruitment, and a culture of “showing up” for one another can transform a BNI chapter into a powerhouse of referrals and business growth. Dr. Misner reinforces the message: chapters that set a standard of excellence and inspire members with purpose reap extraordinary rewards.
For more info on Jason and his work, visit: constructsuccess.com