Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast C-Suite Perspectives
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The State of the Economy for August 2024 | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:33:34 | |
The latest survey results from The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® show consumers in the US have positive views about current and future business conditions, but their overall feelings about the economy remain mixed, and they are still worried about high prices, inflation and unemployment.
Join Erik Lundh, Senior Economist, Global at The Conference Board and Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist, Global Indicators at The Conference Board, to find out how US consumer sentiment could soften spending in the second half of 2024.
(00:30) U.S. Consumer Confidence Overview
For more on this topic from The Conference Board: | |||
| FedEx CEO: How Business Leaders Should Navigate Disruption | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:25:20 | |
2024 Distinguished Leadership Award recipient Raj Subramaniam explains how FedEx thinks about sustainability, data, culture and much more.
FedEx aims to have carbon-neutral operations by 2040, and that will require careful management of 5,000 facilities and 200,000 motorized vehicles. How can FedEx do this while making millions of deliveries every day, continuing to innovate, and leveraging its data to improve supply chains globally?
Join Dr. Lori Esposito Murray and guest Raj Subramaniam, President & CEO of FedEx, to find out the three principles today’s leaders need, how FedEx leverages physical networks and proprietary data, and its plans for meeting ambitious sustainability goals.
(01:51) Leadership and Risk Management
For more from The Conference Board:
This Leadership in Challenging Times discussion is featured as a C-Suite Perspectives podcast and a special CED Policy Watch Webcast. Leadership in Challenging Times features timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. | |||
| How Can the Global Labor Shortage be Addressed? | 08 Jul 2024 | 00:32:42 | |
Many large economies across the globe are experiencing or will experience labor shortages over the next decade. How can countries address these gaps, and to what extent can artificial intelligence (AI) and immigration solve the workforce crisis?
Join Steve Odland and guest Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader, Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to find out about the current state of global labor markets, the impact of an aging population, and potential solutions to labor shortages. 00:40 Welcome to C Suite Perspectives 01:11 Global Labor Market Outlook 02:12 Aging Population and Labor Shortages 05:23 Impact of Immigration on Labor Markets 08:30 AI and Automation in the Workforce 10:15 Regional Labor Market Differences 15:43 Solutions to Labor Shortages 18:21 Engaging the Domestic Workforce 29:49 Final Thoughts and Conclusion | |||
| Why Hybrid Work Is Helping Employers Keep Talent | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:29:45 | |
Hybrid work works, according to The Conference Board Reimagined Workplace 2024 report, with 84% of human capital leaders reporting higher job satisfaction and 79% citing better worker attraction and retention. But can HR leaders continue to demonstrate the ROI of flexibility and employee well-being, or are we headed for a Great Resignation 2.0?
Join Diana Scott and guest Robin Erickson, Vice President, Human Capital, at The Conference Board, to find out about the tightening job market, trends in employee well-being and flexibility, and how human capital leaders are exploring AI.
(00:58) History and Methodology of the Reimagined Workplace Study | |||
| Net Zero Isn’t Enough. So What's Plan B? | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:29:44 | |
With temperatures rising and countries trailing on net zero goals, how can the private and public sectors adapt?
Global temperatures are well on their way to rising 2.6 degrees Celsius by 2100, and we’re already seeing deleterious effects. How can humanity adapt to climate change—and what happens if we don’t? Join Steve Odland and guest Alex Heil, Senior Economist at The Conference Board, to discuss the most pressing risks, where we stand on 2050 emissions goals, and how the private and public sectors should help our world adapt.
(00:10) Understanding Climate Change
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| AI and Cybersecurity: The Future According to Nikesh Arora | 12 Aug 2024 | 00:24:59 | |
The next five to 10 years could yield unprecedented, life-changing innovation in artificial intelligence (AI). Can industry and governments capitalize on this moment by finding the right balance of business innovation, AI regulation, and cybersecurity best practices?
Join Dr. Lori Esposito Murray and guest Nikesh Arora, CEO of Palo Alto Networks, to find out why consistent AI regulation is important, how Arora built an innovation culture at Palo Alto, and why cybersecurity is more important than ever.
(01:24) Nikesh's Leadership Journey
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Headed for Recession? Only 30% of CEOs Think So | 08 Aug 2024 | 00:21:16 | |
The latest Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence™ in collaboration with The Business Council reveals cautious optimism among US CEOs, with only 30% expecting a recession in the next 12 to 18 months. What do CEOs expect in terms of hiring and wages, and what are the biggest risks they see in the marketplace?
Join Steve Odland and guest Dana Peterson, Chief Economist at The Conference Board, to find out why recession has faded as an immediate fear, whether CEOs plan to reduce headcount, and why they’re especially worried about cyber risks right now. (00:28) Overview of the CEO Confidence Survey
For more from The Conference Board:
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| Flooding Is Getting Worse. What Should Businesses Do? | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:31:27 | |
With 40% of the US living in coastal areas, the risk of flooding from stronger storms and rising sea levels isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a looming crisis for businesses, insurers, and governments. How can businesses and governments assess the risks, update their strategies, and balance the needs of all stakeholders, including residents?
Join Steve Odland and guest Alex Heil, PhD, Senior Economist at The Conference Board, to explore the rising costs of more severe flooding, the challenges of urban planning and development in flood-prone areas, and how businesses can build resilience against these risks.
(00:08) Overview of Economic Impact of Flooding
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| The State of the Economy for July 2024 | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:32:19 | |
Consumers are happy to be working, but they’re still concerned about elevated prices and interest rates. That’s according to The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® for July.
Join Markus Schomer, Senior Economist at The Conference Board, and Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to find out what’s affecting US consumer attitudes and spending—and how it fits into the bigger picture of economic growth around the world.
(00:36) Key Insights from the July Consumer Confidence Survey
For more on this topic from The Conference Board: | |||
| Unlocking the Value of Hybrid Work | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:34:52 | |
Most workers and leaders believe in the benefits of hybrid work, but they're struggling to measure these effects or find an approach that serves all employees. How can human capital leaders create a compelling vision for new hybrid policies?
Join Diana Scott and guest Matt Rosenbaum, Principal Researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to find out about the shortcomings of existing metrics, why hybrid policies require a clear vision, and the benefits of training people on how to work in this new reality.
00:30 Maximizing the Value of Hybrid Work 01:57 Challenges in Measuring Productivity 03:43 Optimizing Hybrid Work Models 05:28 Importance of Clear Communication 09:48 Engaging Employees in Hybrid Work Decisions 27:55 Training Managers for Hybrid Work 31:05 Evaluating Hybrid Work Effectiveness 32:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Cancel the ESG Backlash | 22 Jul 2024 | 00:30:20 | |
When it comes to ESG, most companies feel better about their progress on “E” — environmental — than on the “S” or the “G,” according to a new report by the ESG Center at The Conference Board. How can companies reset their ESG agendas and make meaningful progress in the face of economic, political, and other tailwinds?
Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, Senior Researcher, ESG Center, at The Conference Board to find out about the political and economic factors creating a backlash against ESG investing, the role of regulation in achieving ESG goals, and the business opportunities available in the “S” and “G” pillars of ESG.
(00:47) Understanding ESG: A Brief Overview
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| How the Global South Is Disrupting the International Order | 15 Jul 2024 | 00:30:15 | |
The countries of the Global South comprise 88% of the world’s population but only 40% of GDP. How is this bloc’s growing economic and geopolitical influence manifesting, and what role does Russia play in all of this?
Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, former president of the Committee for Economic Development (CED), the public policy center of The Conference Board, to learn about the evolution of the Global South, how the pandemic and the war in Ukraine have empowered these countries, and what China and Russia’s closer ties mean.
(00:13) Understanding the Global South | |||
| The State of the Economy for September 2025 | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:24:35 | |
In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Dana Peterson speaks with economists Stephanie Guichard and Alex Heil about declining US consumer confidence, rising inflation concerns, and lowered spending expectations-- and explores how the global energy transition is reshaping markets, costs, and business strategy.
This episode provides a dual lens on the economy: the current thinking of US consumers, which shapes spending and growth, and the long-term global shift in energy systems, reshaping industries and business planning.
Leaders and executives will gain timely insights into how these trends affect both household behavior and strategic business decisions.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Shutting Down the Economy? Impact of US Government Shutdown | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:22:57 | |
What happens when Washington fails to fund the government? In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, guest host Dana Peterson, Chief Economist at The Conference Board, sits down with Yelena Shulyatyeva, Senior US Economist for The Conference Board Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to unpack the economic, business, and consumer impacts of a government shutdown.
From delays in critical economic data to disruptions for federal workers, contractors, and even mortgage approvals, Yelena explains the ripple effects of shutdowns across sectors. The discussion also explores how consumer confidence, GDP growth, and even the Federal Reserve’s policy decisions can be influenced when the government goes dark.
Whether you’re a business leader preparing for uncertainty, an investor tracking economic signals, or simply curious about how a shutdown affects everyday life, this conversation offers clarity and context on one of Washington’s most disruptive events. | |||
| The State of the Economy for August 2025 | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:19:45 | |
Consumer confidence mostly held steady in August – what's driving people’s current mood and spending habits? The latest update from The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® shows a slight dip in August, with the index slipping to 97.4 from July’s 98.7. Both the Present Situation Index and the Expectations Index fell, with expectations remaining below the recession-warning threshold of 80. Join Dana Peterson, Center Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, and Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist, Global Indicators, The Conference Board, as they discuss:
More from The Conference Board: | |||
| As Deals Come Together, What’s Next for Tariffs and Trade? | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:27:45 | |
How successful has the US been with tariffs, and what other aspects of trade could be negotiated next?
The US is inching closer toward certainty on tariffs, but China, India, Canada, and Mexico are key markets with unanswered questions. How can business leaders prepare for further changes in tariffs, trade politics, and import-export controls?
Join Steve Odland and guest Erin McLaughlin, senior economist in The Conference Board Economy, Strategy and Finance (ESF) Center, to find out what tariff deals have been struck, how consumer spending and inflation might fare in the coming months, and which non-tariff aspects of trade could be negotiated down the line.
For more from The Conference Board: · The Conference Board's Tariff Tracker · Buried Leverage: Will Critical Minerals Remain Available and Affordable? · Have Tariffs and Price Concerns Reduced the Appeal of Product Country of Origin? | |||
| 10 Priorities for Every Business Operating in China in 2025 | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:28:59 | |
Doing business in China increasingly requires an entirely different approach to supply chain, IT, government relations, and innovation. How can multinational companies operating in China evaluate the risks and opportunities—including gray swans and even black swans?
Join Steve Odland and guest David Hoffman, China Center Leader and senior advisor for Asia at The Conference Board, to explore the difference between “complicated” and “complex,” how to win in down market operating conditions, and why managing geopolitical risks requires both the local operation and your global headquarters.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Lessons In Credit Access and Culture-Building at Synchrony | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:26:36 | |
The average credit decision at Synchrony relies on 9,000 pieces of data. How does the company use all this information to expand credit access while giving consumers the right amount of credit at the right time?
Join Steve Odland and guest Brian Wenzel, chief financial officer at Synchrony, to find out how the company is improving financial literacy, how Synchrony uses machine learning, AI, and other technologies to improve its offerings, and how it reset its culture through active listening and transparency.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| FIS CEO Stephanie Ferris on Embracing GenAI at Work | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:21:15 | |
Find out how FIS is staying on the cutting edge of technology while serving clients and communities.
FIS processes more than 10% of the global economy and handles $16 trillion in assets annually. How does the company simultaneously safeguard data, pursue innovation, and serve its communities?
Join David Young and guest Stephanie Ferris, CEO and president of FIS, to learn about Ferris' journey to the corner office, three ways Ferris and FIS are exploring generative AI, and how the company supports communities across 64 countries. The Leadership in Challenging Times discussions feature timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. For more from The Conference Board: · CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards | |||
| Are Boards Effective? Here’s What Our Latest Research Says | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:26:42 | |
More C-Suite leaders view their boards as effective in 2025, but numerous challenges remain, including keeping up with AI.
More than one-third (35%) of C-Suite executives surveyed by PwC and The Conference Board say their board’s effectiveness is “excellent” or “good.” What are these boards doing well, and where do they need to improve?
Join Steve Odland and guest Arielle Berlin, director of the Governance Insights Center at PwC, to find out how boards are grappling with uncertainty, why companies want boards to focus more on AI and talent, and why nearly all senior executives are calling for board refreshment.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| The State of the Economy for July 2025 | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:27:09 | |
In this episode, we break down the latest data from The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index®, released today. The numbers show a modest but notable improvement in consumer sentiment as we move through summer 2025. We explore:
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| Lessons in Digital Transformation from Clorox’s CEO | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:17:24 | |
Learn how Clorox invested in technological innovation so it could continue delivering superior consumer experiences. Almost 90% of US households use Clorox products, giving the company a unique window into consumer behavior during this uncertain time. How has The Clorox Company used innovation and technology to reinvent itself and respond to shifting consumer needs? Join David Young and guest Linda Rendle, CEO and chair of Clorox, to find out about her family background in CPG, the company's ongoing digital transformation, and the state of the consumer today. The Leadership in Challenging Times discussions feature timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| What Are CHROs' Top 10 Priorities for the Rest of 2025? | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:28:14 | |
2025 is half over. What issues should human capital leaders focus onduring the restof the year?
In this time of rapid change, chief HR officers (CHROs) shouldfocus on issues such as AI transformation, leadership resilience, and strategic workforce planning. Whatelse made The Conference Board’s top 10 CHRO priorities for the restof 2025?
Join Steve Odland and guest Diana Scott, center leader of the US Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to find out why succession and workforce planning are so important, the role of reskilling and upskilling, and how to help your workforce overcome their fear of AI.
The Conference Board is profiling the top 10 priorities for crucial job functions and business units. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, we look at the top priorities for CHROs.
(00:46) Priority Number 10: Employee Well-Being
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| How Vertex Pharmaceuticals Succeeds with Serial Innovation | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:17:34 | |
Learn why culture and constant innovation are essential to developing life-changing biopharma treatments. Vertex Pharmaceuticals focuses on “serial innovation” because this year’s billion-dollar blockbuster drug could become next year’s failure. How does this biopharmaceutical company recruit and onboard employees, and how does it create a culture where the best ideas thrive? Join David Young and guest Reshma Kewalramani, president and CEO at Vertex Pharmaceuticals and a recipient of the 2025 CED Distinguished Leadership Awards. You’ll learn about Kewalramani’s career path, what the company learned from developing a hepatitis C drug, and why the company welcomes in students to experiment alongside employees. The Leadership in Challenging Times discussions feature timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. For more from The Conference Board: · CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards | |||
| What's at Stake in the Supreme Court Tariffs Case? | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:30:49 | |
The lawsuit against certain US tariffs could be resolved soon, but uncertainty for businesses will likely linger.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to rule in November on certain tariffs issued by the Administration. What’s at stake in the case, and how can businesses prepare for all possible outcomes?
Join Steve Odland and guest John Gardner, vice president of public policy at the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board, to find out how this lawsuit started, how the Supreme Court could potentially rule, and what the administration could do in response.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| 10 Priorities Every CMO Needs for the Rest of 2025 | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:27:47 | |
We've just passed the midway point of 2025 -- what are the top 10 priorities for chief marketing officers (CMOs) for the rest of the year?
CMOs have been tasked with driving growth even while they grapple with external uncertainty, widespread burnout, and the rise of AI. What else made The Conference Board’s top 10 CMO priorities for the rest of 2025?
Join Steve Odland and guest Ivan Pollard, the Marketing & Communications Center Leader at The Conference Board, to find out what we can learn from CMO surveys, why the CMO-CEO relationship matters, and why 2025 is the year AI needs to contribute to revenue growth.
The Conference Board is profiling the top 10 priorities for crucial job functions and business units. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, we look at the top priorities for CMOs.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Lessons in Executing Strategy from General Mills’ CEO | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:17:11 | |
Learn how General Mills takes strategy from concept into reality—all while standing for good.
General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening had the company pick 10 areas where it would “stand for good” and deliver meaningful impact, including regenerative agriculture and packaging reductions. What can other businesses learn about executing a strategy that delivers sustainable results for shareholders, customers, and the planet?
Join David Young and guest Jeff Harmening, CEO of General Mills, to find out why General Mills builds purpose into its strategy, how the company maintains its culture, and why Harmening didn’t always dream of being a CEO.
The Leadership in Challenging Times discussions feature timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. 00:32 Meet Jeff Harmening: CEO of General Mills 01:18 Jeff's Career Journey and Leadership Values 03:48 The Accelerate Strategy: Driving Sustainable Growth 06:07 Standing for Good: General Mills' Purpose and Values 08:50 A Legacy of Philanthropy and Community Impact 10:10 Focusing on Key Initiatives: From 70 to 10 10:48 Regenerative Agriculture and Environmental Goals 12:39 Building a Culture of Belonging at General Mills 15:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| The State of the Economy for June 2025 | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:21:21 | |
After a brief rebound in May, consumer confidence slipped again. What changed in June—and what might it mean for the economy this summer? The Consumer Confidence Index dropped to 93.0 from 98.4, wiping out half the gains seen last month. Consumers are feeling less optimistic across the board: both their assessment of current business and labor market conditions and their short-term expectations for income, jobs, and the economy have weakened. Pessimism about job availability and business conditions is also more pronounced than it was in May. In this episode, Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist for Global Indicators, joins Malala Lin, Economic Research Associate, to unpack the latest data. They explore what’s driving this decline in sentiment, how it could shape consumer behavior through the summer, and the broader implications for US economic growth.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Employer Branding Delivers ROI—If You Get the Strategy Right | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:26:18 | |
Employer branding reflects your organization’s public perception—and you can measure its effectiveness.
In a world where any job candidate can see your reputation at a glance online, employer branding is essential. How is employer branding different from other branding, and how can companies measure the ROI?
Join Steve Odland and guest Erka Amursi, principal researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to find out the history of employer branding, the challenges in measuring ROI, and why change management can help employer branding efforts succeed. (00:38) The Evolving Role of the CHRO (01:43) Strategic Partnership and Talent Management (03:14) CHROs in the Boardroom (07:03) Global Perspectives on Corporate Governance (08:49) Research Methodology and Insights (10:17) CHROs' Collaboration with C-Suite Members (13:04) Future Skills for CHROs (18:17) Board and CEO Support for CHROs
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Leadership Lessons from Johnson & Johnson CEO Joaquin Duato | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:21:30 | |
Science and technology will bring more change to health care over the next decade than we saw in the past century, says Joaquin Duato, Chairman and CEO, Johnson & Johnson, and a 2025 Distinguished Leadership Award honoree. What drives his confidence, and how is the company creating this future?
Join David K. Young and Duato to discover what he has learned in 36 years at J&J, how the company innovates in science and technology, and how the company supports employees and communities. This Leadership in Challenging Times discussion is featured as a C-Suite Perspectives podcast and a special CED Policy Watch Webcast. Leadership in Challenging Times features timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate.
(04:08) Leadership Philosophy and Company Culture
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| 10 Priorities for Sustainability Leaders to Close Out 2025 | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:25:31 | |
If you work in sustainability or ESG, you’re already grappling with a rapidly evolving regulatory and policy landscape, all while proving the ROI of your sustainability strategy. What other crucial issues should sustainability executives prioritize for the remainder of 2025?
Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, PhD, principal researcher at The Conference Board Governance & Sustainability Center, to find out how AI is affecting sustainability work, the importance of supply chain sustainability and water stewardship, and why policy changes shouldn't affect your underlying goals.
At the midway point of 2025, The Conference Board is profiling the top 10 priorities for crucial job functions and business units. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, we look at the top priorities for sustainability executives.
(00:49) Priority Number 10: AI in Sustainability
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Zscaler’s Secret to Success: Be Obsessed with Customers | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:25:57 | |
Cybersecurity has become top of mind for Fortune 500 companies, and yet attacks, breaches, and other incidents keep happening. Can companies really prevent cyber risks, and what approach should they be taking? Join David Young and guest Jay Chaudhry, CEO, chairman, and founder of Zscaler, to find out the three lessons his parents taught him, why Zscaler has a customer obsession, and why zero trust architecture is critical for today's cyber approach. This Leadership in Challenging Times discussion is featured as a C-Suite Perspectives podcast and a special CED Policy Watch Webcast. Leadership in Challenging Times features timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED’s Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate. For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| The State of the Economy for May 2025 | 27 May 2025 | 00:24:15 | |
Tariffs and stock market movements remained top of mind for consumers in May. The Expectations Index—based on consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—showed modest improvement overall. Expectations for business conditions and the labor market inched up but stayed in pessimistic territory. The key bright spot was income expectations, which moved into positive territory, supported by a stronger stock market and early signs of progress on a trade deal with China.
Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, sits down with Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist, Global Indicators, and Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist, to discuss the outlook for the US GDP, whether consumers are worried about a recession, and how the Fed might handle the current uncertainty.
00:38 Consumer Confidence in May 01:34 Impact of Tariffs and Financial Markets 04:08 Consumer Expectations and Spending 08:21 Inflation and Financial Concerns 13:03 Changes in US and Global Economic Forecasts 21:10 Factors Influencing Future Economic Outlook 22:46 Conclusion and Farewell | |||
| What New Polling Says About Tariffs, Immigration and More | 27 May 2025 | 00:26:19 | |
Get insights on the President’s polling 100 days in and how Americans view crucial domestic issues. The Administration’s approval rating has declined from 51% to 45% since Inauguration Day, but that's relatively in line with historical precedent. What does the President’s polling tell us about the American public today—and how they might vote in the 2026 midterms? Join Steve Odland and guest Clifford Young, president of polling and societal trends at Ipsos, to explore the President’s polling versus his first term, the nuances of polling on immigration and taxes, and why domestic issues matter more to Americans than foreign affairs.
(00:55) Themes in Recent Polls: Trepidation and the President For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| What’s Russia’s Next Move in Ukraine—and in Europe? | 19 May 2025 | 00:30:20 | |
Can President Trump get Ukraine and Russia to agree on a peace deal? If so, what happens next?
The US administration is pushing for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, but progress has been slow, and success remains uncertain. How likely is a long-term cessation of hostilities, and how could that affect Russia’s military ambitions in Europe?
Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, senior fellow for national security and managing director of CEO programs at the Council on Foreign Relations, to find out the major issues prolonging the Russia-Ukraine war, the potential Russian threat to Finland and the Baltics, and the details of the recent US-Ukraine deal on critical minerals.
(01:36) Occupied Regions and Military Tactics
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Is Stagflation a Looming Risk? | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:29:17 | |
The global economy is slowing — but is it a recession, stagflation, or just a soft patch? In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland speaks with Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist at The Conference Board, about the latest forecast for the US and world economies. They break down:
This episode was recorded on September 16, 2025.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| What's on the White House Agenda for the Next 100 Days? | 12 May 2025 | 00:27:27 | |
As the Trump presidency enters its second 100 days, what should we expect next?
The Trump administration has had arguably the busiest first 100 days since President Franklin Roosevelt’s first term. How will the White House handle the challenges of the next hundred days, including tax legislation, the next phase of DOGE, and pivotal court cases regarding the executive branch’s autonomy?
Join Steve Odland and guest David K. Young, president of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board (CED), on what the coming months hold for the Trump presidency.
Key topics include:
(01:31) Key Policy Areas: Tax and Debt Ceiling (02:38) Understanding Reconciliation and Debt Ceiling Implications (05:05) Tariffs and International Trade Relations (06:38) Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Negotiations (16:42) The Role of the Federal Reserve and Executive Tensions (20:08) Geopolitical Concerns: South China Sea, Taiwan, and More (25:04) Congressional Actions and Budget Considerations For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| CHROs in the Boardroom: What’s Trending, What’s Next? | 05 May 2025 | 00:29:45 | |
As HR becomes more strategic, CHROs are building their presence inside the boardroom.
The latest research from The Conference Board shows that chief human resource officers (CHROs) are engaging much more with corporate boards in recent years. How can CHROs continue being a strategic partner while helping companies navigate the future of work?
Join Steve Odland and guests Rita Meyerson, EdD, principal researcher in The Conference Board’s Human Capital Center, and Andrew Jones, PhD, principal researcher in The Conference Board’s Governance & Sustainability Center. They discuss what the CEO-CHRO partnership should look like, how CHROs can improve cross-functional collaboration, and how CHROs are engaging more with boards these days.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| The State of the Economy for April 2025 | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:24:31 | |
Consumer confidence plunges to a 13-year low — is a recession next? Consumer confidence declined for a fifth consecutive month in April, to levels not seen since May 2020. With Americans’ spending comprising 70% of economic growth, what could their growing concerns mean for the US this year?
Three specific expectation components – business conditions, employment prospects and future income – all dropped sharply, reflecting deep pessimism about the future. Crucially, the number of consumers expecting fewer jobs in the next six months was nearly as high as in April 2009, the middle of the “Great Recession.” Americans' concerns about the wider economy are bleeding into worries about their own personal situations.
Dana Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, sits down with Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist of Global Indicators, and Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist to unpack how this could shape US and global economic growth this year.
For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Why Change Management Is More Important Than Ever | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:26:50 | |
Change is constant, and that’s why your business needsa structured change management strategy.
Your business is constantly changing, even if you don’t use the term “change management” to describe it. What does successful change management look like, and how can business leaders do this successfully in a time of uncertainty?
Join Steve Odland and guest Diana Scott, Center Leader of The Conference Board'US Human Capital Center, to learn about change management’s history, how to win employee buy-in, and how HR leaders can help organizations adapt. (00:00) Introduction to C-Suite Perspectives (00:16) Meet Diana Scott: Change Management Expert (00:51) Understanding Change Management (01:59) The Human Reaction to Change (03:05) Proactive vs. Reactive Change Management (04:14) The Evolution of Change Management (07:13) Implementing Change: Key Steps (13:52) The Importance of Transparency and Communication For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| e.l.f. Beauty CEO: Purpose and Growth Go Hand in Hand | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:27:25 | |
e.l.f. Beauty —a 2025 recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Awards— is the only cosmetics brand to have grownits market share for 24 consecutive quarters, all while being a leader in innovation, diversity, and Fair Trade certification.What lessons can other businesses learn from e.l.f.’sembrace of diversity, sustainability, and affordable products?
Join Steve Odlandand guest Tarang Amin, chairman and CEO of e.l.f. Beauty, to find out how e.l.f.aligns its purpose with customer values, how the companyformulatesproducts that are clean, vegan, and cruelty-free, and why e.l.f. wants to make the best of beauty accessible to every eye, lip, and face.
The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have moved beyond public commitments to fully integrate responsible business practices into their core strategies, driving measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, and society.
(00:35) Elf Beauty's Mission and History
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| Will China Blockade Taiwan? | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:35:57 | |
China is determined to reincorporate Taiwan—raising the stakes for countries and for businesses.
By 2027, China could be militarily capable of taking over Taiwan, backed by the world’s largest navy and a growing air force. What’s next for China-Taiwan relations, and how does their relationship affect Western businesses?
Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, senior fellow for national security and managing director of CEO programs at the Council on Foreign Relations, to find out how Taiwan got here, why China could seek to blockade or quarantine Taiwan, and what options are available to the US to deter or counter such threats.
(01:01) China's Military Buildup For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Why Yum! Brands Focuses on Food, People, and Planet | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:29:10 | |
Food, people, and planet—these are the three north stars that help Yum! Brands —a 2025 recipient of the Corporate Responsibility Awards—focus its sustainability efforts across water use, energy, packaging, and more. What lessons can other businesses learn from the sustainability success of this multinational company?
Join Steve Odland and guest Jon Hixson, chief sustainability officer at Yum! Brands, to find out why your sustainability strategy requires north stars,how the company wins buy-in from franchisees, and what advice he gives to up-and-coming sustainability leaders.
The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have moved beyond public commitments to fully integrate responsible business practices into their core strategies, driving measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, and society.
(01:54) Defining Sustainability in the Food Industry (05:06) Key Trends in Corporate Sustainability (06:46) Yum! Brands' Strategy: People, Food, and Planet (10:49) Global Operations and Supply Chain Challenges (18:50) Leveraging Technology for Sustainability (21:49) Franchisee Engagement and Regulatory Challenges (25:35) Future Priorities and Advice for Sustainability Leaders
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| Are Trade Deficits Bad for the US? It’s Complicated | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:28:40 | |
Dive deep into the world of trade balances, the role of the US, and the power of the dollar.
The US regularly runs trade deficits with its biggest trade partners, while other blocs such as the EU have trade surpluses. Is this bad for the US, and if so, what can be done about it?
Join Steve Odland and guest Maria Demertzis, The Conference Board Economy, Strategy & Finance Center Leader for Europe, to explore trade balances, why the US dollar underpins global trade, and why the WTO rule book doesn’t work well with China.
(00:21) Understanding Trade Deficits (01:09) Measuring Trade Balances (02:18) Country vs. Trading Block Deficits (05:00) The Impact of Trade Deficits (07:13) The Unique Position of the US Dollar (10:04) Global Trade and Currency Dynamics (18:52) Economic Policies and Trade Surpluses (21:59) China's Role in Global Trade
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| How Prudential Turns Purpose into Practice | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:25:18 | |
Learn how Prudential Financial continues to serve all stakeholders through clarity of purpose.
Prudential Financial has served its local community of Newark, New Jersey, for 150 years, and that's one reason it is a recipient of The Conference Board 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards. How does the company choose when and where to invest, and how does it scale those efforts globally?
Join Steve Odland and guest Lata Reddy, senior vice president, inclusive solutions, at Prudential Financial and chair of the Prudential Foundation, to find out about Prudential’s commitment to Newark, why partnerships are essential, and why the company chose "inclusive solutions” as the best title to describe their corporate responsibility mission.
The 2025 Corporate Responsibility Awards, taking place on April 23, celebrates organizations that have moved beyond public commitments to fully integrate responsible business practices into their core strategies, driving measurable, positive impacts on their organizations, stakeholders, and society. (01:25) Prudential's Legacy in Newark (02:36) Newark's Evolution and Prudential's Role (06:38) Global Impact and Local Prioritization (10:51) Employee Engagement and Volunteerism (16:29) Inclusive Solutions and Corporate Strategy (20:49) Looking Ahead: Future Strategies For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| What Should Corporate Philanthropy Look Like in 2025? | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:27:56 | |
Learn how companies can evolve their philanthropy in a divided political climate while staying true to their values.
Most companies in 2025 are focusing their social efforts on economic opportunity and education, according to The Conference Board C-Suite Outlook 2025. How is corporate philanthropy changing, especially with the rise of AI and the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives?
Join Steve Odland and guest Jeff Hoffman, Acting ESG Center Leader at The Conference Board, to find out how companies can avoid scattershot giving, whether they should give directly or through an intermediary, and how to show the ROI on corporate giving. (00:36) Understanding Corporate Philanthropy and CSR (02:30) Aligning Community Strategy with Business Strategy (04:58) Best Practices for Corporate Foundations (06:29) Trends in Corporate Philanthropy for 2025 (07:33) Impact of DEI and Political Environment on Philanthropy (09:21) Geographic Shifts and Employee Volunteerism (15:11) Leveraging AI for Smarter Giving (18:34) Direct Giving vs. Intermediaries (22:49) Adapting to the Changing Political Landscape (24:10) Measuring Impact and ROI in Corporate PhilanthropyFor more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Salary Budgets 2026: What to Expect | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:24:43 | |
As organizations head into 2026, pay planning has become more strategic than ever. Salary budgets remain firm, but workforce strategies are shifting toward automation, reskilling, and greater pay transparency.
Diana Scott welcomes Mitchell Barnes and Rita Meyerson of The Conference Board to discuss how salary budgets are evolving; why pay equity and transparency are critical to retention; and how economists, HR leaders, and members of the C-Suite can partner to shape resilient, future-ready workforce strategies. | |||
| EVs Have Been a Growth Story, But Will That Continue? | 28 Mar 2025 | 00:30:20 | |
EV sales in the US continue to grow. Learn what needs to happen to spur further adoption.
Roughly 20% of US passenger vehicles sold in 2024 were battery electric or hybrid vehicles. What’s next for the EV industry, especially in the face of a changing regulatory environment and tariffson key materials such as lithium?
Join Steve Odland and guest Dr. Alex Heil, senior economist in the US Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to explore the future of EV growth in the US, whether EVs are price competitive with fossil fuel vehicles, and what’s happening in countries such as Norway, China, and India.
(00:29) Understanding Electric Vehicles (02:15) Trends in EV Adoption (03:47) Challenges of Range and Cost (06:27) Impact on the Electrical Grid (09:10) Charging Infrastructure Developments (14:06) Commercial and Freight EVs (17:33) Global EV Market Insights For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| The DOGE Effect: How Is the Federal Workforce Changing? | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:28:07 | |
Amid potentially massive job cuts by the federal government, how should leaders manage this disruption?
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) seeks to cut hundreds of thousands of federal jobs while shrinking or eliminating many agencies. How can leaders guide the federal workforce through such disruptions, both for those affected and those who remain?
Join Steve Odland and guest Diana Scott, Center Leader of the US Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to find out how DOGE is shrinking the federal workforce, what change management looks like, and why emotional intelligence is a crucial skill for leaders right now. (00:50) Objectives and Actions of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) (02:16) Impact on Federal Workforce and Schedule F Reclassification (03:38) Challenges and Risks of Workforce Reduction (05:15) Advising Leaders on Managing Change (08:27) Importance of Communication and Transparency (17:51) Emotional Intelligence and Support During Change (22:07) Opportunities for the Private Sector For more from The Conference Board: | |||
| Proxy Season Is Busier Than Ever. How Can Companies Prepare? | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:26:33 | |
Find out the latest trends in shareholder proposals—and whether they’ll succeed.
Shareholder proposals are at an all-time high, but support for most of these proposals has greatly declined. What’s on deck for this year’s proxy season, and how should corporations prepare to engage with shareholders?
Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, principal researcher at The Conference Board ESG Center, to find out why proxy filings have risen, what’s trending in proposals related to DEI and ESG, and why shareholders are starting to scrutinize companies’ charitable donations. (02:17) Trends in Shareholder Proposals (03:08) Impact of SEC Rule Changes (04:38) Focus on Environmental and Social Issues (10:18) Mechanics of Shareholder Proposals (12:15) Corporate Governance Trends (14:57) Environmental Proposals and Investor Sentiment (18:58) Social Proposals and DEI (23:50) Emerging Issues: AI and Corporate Governance For more from The Conference Board: | |||