C-Suite Perspectives

AI is advancing so quickly that companies may need to rethink their strategies every nine to 12 months. But keeping pace is not simply a matter of adopting more technology: lasting gains will require companies to redesign business processes, establish clear metrics, build secure common architectures, and treat AI as a CEO-led transformation.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, speaks with John Chambers, former Executive Chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems, about what business leaders can learn from the internet revolution as they navigate the faster and potentially more consequential AI era.

Together, they discuss why CEOs must own AI strategy, how companies can move from experimentation to measurable pilots, and why productivity gains should fund growth and new revenue opportunities—not simply reduce headcount. They also explore the cybersecurity risks posed by agentic AI; the need to combine speed with repeatable processes and governance; and the culture, workflows, and leadership practices that will separate the next decade's winners from the companies left behind.

More from The Conference Board:

· A Framework for Agentic AI and Work Redesign

· From Principles for Practice: Governing AI in the Corporation

· AI and the C-Suite: Implications for CEO Strategy in 2026

· Transforming Organizations for AI: Critical Factors for AI Success

After two decades of relatively flat US electricity consumption, power demand is growing again as AI, data centers, and advanced manufacturing expand. Solar and battery storage can add capacity relatively quickly and economically—but lengthy development and grid-interconnection processes could prevent new power from coming online fast enough.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, speaks with David Zwillinger, CEO of DESRI, about what it will take to meet America's rising demand for reliable, affordable power.

Together, they discuss why solar accounted for 54% of new US generating capacity last year and how falling battery costs are making renewable energy more attainable and attractive. They also explore the role of natural gas and other energy sources in maintaining reliability, how developers can build community support, why the business case for renewables has shifted from ESG goals to cost and speed, and what CEOs and CFOs should understand about power agreements and transferable renewable energy tax credits.

More from The Conference Board:

· Wired for AI: What US Tech Giants' Growing Energy Appetite Means for Business

· Data Center Buildout Puts Pressure on Power Infrastructure, Input Costs

· Can the US Grid Keep Up with the Demand for AI?

· US Power Surge: How Businesses Can Prepare for Electricity Demand Spikes from AI

An established company can be profitable and still lose its place in the future. Avoiding that fate requires treating disruption as an opportunity, preserving what remains valuable, and renewing the organization for the next era.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, speaks with George Kurian, CEO of NetApp and a recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Leadership Award, about leading an established technology company through the rise of cloud computing into AI.

Together, they discuss how customer empathy informs strategy, why CEOs must be willing to say no, and how authenticity can help employees understand difficult decisions. They also explore NetApp's response to cloud computing and AI, the importance of cyber resilience and responsible risk-taking, and why business leaders should view themselves as stewards responsible for building institutions that will endure beyond their own tenure.

This episode is part of the Leadership in Challenging Times series from The CEO Center at The Conference Board. The series features discussions with the business leaders who are recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Awards.

No CEO can personally master every technological, geopolitical, and economic challenge confronting a modern organization. The leadership advantage now comes from building a system that draws on the knowledge of the entire team—and enables the business to keep transforming without depending on one person for every answer.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, speaks with Constantine Alexandrakis, CEO of Russell Reynolds Associates and author of The Catalyst CEO, about why the traditional command-and-control model is no longer enough.

Together, they explore why effective CEOs lead from the center of the organization rather than the top; how empowerment differs from abdication; and why humility, adaptability, resilience, and self-awareness are becoming essential leadership capabilities. They also discuss the board's role in transformation, how AI is changing jobs and workflows, and why CEOs must build cultures and leadership systems capable of continuous change.

More from The Conference Board:

· What Does It Really Take to Succeed in the C-Suite?

· A Framework for Agentic AI and Work Redesign

· Transforming Organizations for AI: Critical Factors for AI Success

· Shedding Light on Culture: A Framework for Board Insights

US salary increase budgets are projected to remain at 3.5% in 2027, unchanged from 2026. But stability in the headline number does not mean the workforce—or the way companies allocate compensation—is standing still.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, speaks with Diana Scott, US Human Capital Center Leader at The Conference Board, about findings from the 41st annual US Salary Increase Budgets 2026–2027 study and what they mean for business and human capital leaders.

Together, they discuss why the average merit budget of 3.1% should reward performance rather than compensate for inflation; how companies can target limited pay dollars toward promotions, critical skills, retention, and equity; and why AI capabilities should be rewarded only when they create measurable business value. They also explore how automation is changing the mix of work even when overall headcount remains stable, the expanding role of CHROs in workforce transformation, and why transparency and a broader total rewards story are essential to maintaining employee trust.

More from The Conference Board:

· US Salary Increase Budgets 2026–2027

· The Evolving Role of the CHRO in the Boardroom

· A Framework for Agentic AI and Work Redesign

· Skilling for AI: Critical Factors for Navigating AI Disruption

Strategic errors rarely begin as obviously bad decisions but emerge when a strategy outlives the assumptions on which it was built—and leaders fail to recognize that disruptions or transformations have changed the game.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director, International at The Conference Board, speaks with Vincent Giolito, Professor of Strategy and Organization at emlyon business school and Senior Fellow at The Conference Board, about how boards can identify strategic errors before they threaten the future of the company.

They discuss why boards must continually test strategic assumptions, recognize weak signals, and understand transformation as an ongoing process rather than a single event. They also explore the competencies boards need beyond financial expertise, why directors require "progressive lenses" that let them examine both operational details and the wider business landscape, and how ruthless empathy can help boards support CEOs while still challenging them when necessary.

More from The Conference Board:

Board Readiness in 2026

Corporate Governance in an Era of Sustained Disruption

Modernizing Board Governance for Today's Risk Environment

AI Policy and Regulation in the EU: What Companies Need to Know

US Consumer Confidence fell to 81.9 in September, marking a third consecutive monthly decline. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, The Conference Board's Eric Lundh and Allen Li examine what is driving greater consumer caution — from financial well-being and inflation concerns to signs of softer discretionary spending.

They also discuss The Conference Board's latest global economic forecast: how energy disruptions and trade uncertainty are weighing on growth; how AI investment and semiconductor demand are supporting parts of the global economy; and what to expect in the US, Asia, the Gulf region, and Europe through 2027.

What changes when employees are not only part of a company but its owners? At Graybar, employee ownership has fostered a long-term approach to leadership—one that places trust, resilience, shared accountability, and responsibility to future generations alongside financial performance.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, speaks with Kathy Mazzarella, Chairman, President, and CEO of Graybar. Mazzarella reflects on joining the company at 19, rising through roles to become CEO, and the defining experiences that prepared her to lead one of North America's largest employee-owned companies.

Together, they explore why leadership is an act of stewardship, how Graybar's ownership culture strengthens engagement and customer loyalty, and why resilience can matter more than an uninterrupted path to the top. They also discuss how leaders can use AI to improve productivity without sacrificing human judgment and trust, why the right decision for employees can also produce stronger business results, and what it means to leave both a company and its people better positioned for the future.

This episode is part of the Leadership in Challenging Times series from The CEO Center at The Conference Board. The series features discussions with the business leaders who are recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Awards.

Leading a global organization does not mean making every decision yourself. It means creating enough strategic clarity for people to act, understanding the context behind difficult choices, and knowing when to step in—or step back.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, is joined by Antoinette Gawin, President and CEO of Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies and a recipient of a 2026 Distinguished Leadership Award, to explore the experiences that shaped her leadership and how she empowers people to act across a complex global organization.

Together, they discuss why leaders have an obligation to speak when invited to the table, how strategic alignment can give teams greater operational autonomy, and why empathy is an underrated leadership attribute. They also examine the potential of blood and cell therapies, the role of AI and data in accelerating medical discovery, the need to expand access to innovation, the fragility of the global blood supply, and how regulation can protect patients without unnecessarily slowing progress.

This episode is part of the Leadership in Challenging Times series from The CEO Center at The Conference Board. The series features discussions with the business leaders who are recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Awards.

The US has no shortage of people who want careers in health care—or employers eager to hire them. Yet tens of thousands of qualified nursing and medical-school applicants are turned away each year, revealing a constrained pipeline with too few classroom seats, faculty members, and clinical placements to train the workforce the country needs.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, is joined by Steve Beard, Chairman and CEO of Covista, to examine why the health care workforce shortage begins long before employers try to fill open positions—and what it will take to build a larger, stronger, and more sustainable talent pipeline.

Together, they discuss how educational institutions can expand access without sacrificing quality; how employer-educator partnerships can connect tuition assistance, clinical training, and employment; and why reducing administrative burdens is essential to retaining clinicians. They also explore how AI can personalize health care education and give clinicians more time with patients, the policy changes needed to increase training capacity and remove barriers to practice, and the leadership required to drive continuous change at scale.

Few industries have survived as many waves of disruption as music—from vinyl and MTV to streaming, AI, and now virtual artists. The performers who endure do more than react: they anticipate the next curve, reinvent without losing their identity, and keep experimenting before a crisis forces them to change.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director, International at The Conference Board, is joined by Peter Corijn, Founder and CEO of VUCASTAR Consulting, Senior Fellow at The Conference Board, author, and recording artist under the name Paul Numi, to explore what business leaders can learn from the music industry about disruption and reinvention.

Together, they examine seven strategies for responding to a game changer; how artists including David Bowie, U2, Madonna, and Prince remained relevant; and why curiosity, resilience, diverse teams, and continuous experimentation underpin lasting success. They also discuss how leaders can innovate without abandoning their core identity, which capabilities organizations should develop before the next crisis, and whether generative AI can replicate the creativity and emotional experience that remain distinctly human.

More from The Conference Board:

Beyond AI Pilots: Building Future-Ready Companies

AI Is Transforming Organizations. How Will Yours Change?

C-Suite Outlook 2026: Uncertainty and Opportunity

Health care systems face a widening capacity challenge: an aging population and rising rates of chronic illness are increasing demand for care, while persistent workforce shortages limit how many patients clinicians can serve. AI could help close that gap—not by replacing health care workers but by reducing administrative burdens, improving workflows, and enabling the existing workforce to deliver more and better care.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, is joined by Erka Amursi, Principal Researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to explore how AI can help health care organizations alleviate workforce shortages, increase productivity, and improve the delivery of care.

Together, they discuss how AI is already supporting diagnosis, documentation, patient monitoring, and administrative work; why the greatest gains will come from redesigning workflows and operating models; and which new skills health care workers will need. They also examine the risks of overreliance, bias, privacy violations, and unclear accountability—and why effective governance should treat AI as a copilot for clinicians rather than an autopilot for patient care.

Leadership does not get easier—leaders get better at doing hard things. For Kristin Peck, navigating uncertainty requires discipline, a growth mindset, and the mental resilience to move forward without having all the answers.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center of The Conference Board, is joined by Kristin Peck, CEO of Zoetis, to explore how she leads the world's largest animal health company through rapid change.

Together, they discuss how purpose and curiosity have shaped Peck's career, why culture is a competitive advantage, and how Zoetis uses innovation to address emerging needs in animal health. They also examine the connection between healthy animals, food security, and economic opportunity—and why empathy and "frustrated optimism" are essential qualities for today's business leaders.

This episode is part of the Leadership in Challenging Times series from The CEO Center at The Conference Board. The series features discussions with the business leaders who are recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Awards.

The era of corporate climate pledges is giving way to the harder work of execution. As 2030 deadlines approach and AI drives demand for energy and infrastructure, companies are confronting difficult questions about which emissions they can control, what they can afford, and how their goals may need to evolve.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, is joined by Dr. Andrew Jones, Principal Researcher at the Governance & Sustainability Center of The Conference Board, to examine how companies set climate goals and the progress they are making across scope one, scope two, and scope three emissions.

Together, they discuss why companies have made the greatest progress on emissions from purchased electricity, the financial and operational challenges putting climate commitments at risk, how AI is reshaping energy demand and corporate emissions—and why revising a target does not necessarily represent a retreat.

Reward is moving out of the HR back office and into the heart of business strategy. From improving frontline productivity to navigating AI and pay transparency, decisions about how employees are rewarded increasingly shape organizational performance, workforce trust, and a company's ability to compete.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director, International at The Conference Board, is joined by John Beadle, Senior Research Fellow and Corporate Reward and Global Mobility Council Director at The Conference Board, to explore insights from the Future: Reward Europe 2026 event and what they reveal about the changing role of reward leaders.

They discuss why successful reward redesign begins with diagnosing the business problem, how global benefit standards are challenging traditional market-based approaches, and whether AI will make reward functions more effective or simply reduce head count. They also examine the unfinished work of EU pay transparency, differences between US and European compensation, the more disciplined use of ESG measures in incentive plans, and the emerging issues that should be on reward leaders' agendas for the year ahead.

More from The Conference Board:

What Employers Need to Know About EU's Pay Transparency Law

The New Reward Agenda: Strategy, AI, Transparency, and Trust

EU Workforce Regulation Outlook 2026: 5 CHRO Priorities

AI and the Workforce: Governing Risk, Opportunity, and Access

A strong culture can help an organization navigate disruption—but the same beliefs and behaviors that drove success in the past can become barriers when the world changes. With AI accelerating uncertainty, how can leaders tell whether their culture is helping their organization adapt or holding it back?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, is joined by Erka Amursi, Principal Researcher in the Human Capital Center, to explore what makes an organizational culture strong, healthy, adaptable, and consistent, and how leaders can determine where their own culture needs work.

They discuss a new four-dimension framework for understanding and measuring culture; why trust and psychological safety are especially important during periods of rapid change; and how leaders' actions, incentives, and communication shape the behaviors that take hold across an organization. They also examine how AI is challenging traditional approaches to change management and why transparency becomes even more important when leaders cannot offer employees certainty about what comes next

Could the Federal Reserve raise interest rates in September?

Yelena Shulyatyeva, Senior US Economist for The Conference Board, analyzes Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's latest remarks and discusses with Erik Lundh, Senior Global Economist for The Conference Board, why markets interpreted Warsh's message as increasingly hawkish. Shulyatyeva examines what Warsh revealed about the Fed's approach to inflation, why the speed of progress toward its 2% target matters, and what his comments suggest about the underlying strength of the economy and labor market.

The conversation also explores the market reaction to the speech, the economic data the Fed will consider before its September meeting, and why The Conference Board is not yet changing its forecast of no rate hikes this year.

FNB grew from a small bank into a major regional institution without abandoning the culture, communities, or risk discipline that helped make its expansion possible. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The CEO Center at The Conference Board, speaks with Vincent Delie Jr., Chairman, President, and CEO of FNB Corporation and First National Bank, and a 2026 Distinguished Leadership Awards honoree, about the leadership decisions behind that transformation.

Together, they explore how FNB has combined strategic growth with disciplined risk management; why decisiveness, collaboration, and a low-bureaucracy culture create competitive advantage; and how investments in AI, digital banking, and underserved communities are shaping the bank's next chapter.

This episode is part of the Leadership in Challenging Times series from the CEO Center at The Conference Board. The series features discussions with the business leaders who are recipients of the Distinguished Leadership Awards.

Consumer confidence edged lower in August as expectations weakened, even as consumers' assessment of current conditions improved. Yelena Shulyatyeva, Senior US Economist, The Conference Board and Allen Li, Associate Economist, The Conference Board examine what the latest data reveal about jobs, inflation, and recession concerns.

They also preview Jackson Hole and discuss what Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's address could mean for interest rates, Treasury yields, and monetary policy.

For more from The Conference Board:

Organizations have long relied on surveys, forecasts, and expert analysis to anticipate future risks and opportunities. Could prediction markets offer business leaders a new—and in some cases more accurate—way to forecast economic conditions, manage risk, and improve decision making?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, is joined by PJ Tabit, Principal Economic Policy Analyst at The Conference Board's CEO Center, to explore the growing role of prediction markets in business and public policy.

Together, they examine how prediction markets work and why they are gaining credibility as forecasting tools; discuss how companies can use them to strengthen risk management and business planning; and explore the governance, compliance, and reputational considerations executives should understand as these markets continue to evolve.

More from The Conference Board:

· Making Predictions Is Hard, Especially About the Future—Or It Used to Be

· AI and the C-Suite: Implications for CEO Strategy in 2026

· EU Digital Markets Act Developments Impact US Tech Firms

· Government Actions Attempt to Address AI Cybersecurity Risks

Organizations are racing to prepare their people for AI—but many may already be training them for yesterday's technology. As AI advances, knowing how to prompt a chatbot isn't enough. The bigger challenge is building the business acumen, adaptability, and organizational capabilities employees will need to put AI to work effectively.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Diana Scott, Human Capital Center Leader at The Conference Board, is joined by Matt Rosenbaum, Principal Researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, to explore how organizations can build an AI-ready workforce that delivers lasting business value.

Together, they discuss why AI literacy alone is no longer enough; examine how CHROs can prepare employees for rapid advances in AI and workforce transformation; and explore the leadership, culture, learning ecosystems, and talent strategies needed to develop future-ready capabilities, support large-scale reskilling, and turn AI into a sustained competitive advantage.

Explore Related Insights:

· Navigating for AI: Critical Factors for Navigating AI Disruption

· Reinventing the Talent Pipeline in the AI Era

· Job Satisfaction 2026: Record High Marks 16 Years of Gains

· Organizational Culture: What Really Matters?

Organizations invest heavily in technology and business continuity—but are they investing enough in the resilience of their people? As employee expectations evolve and disruption becomes more frequent, workforce resilience is emerging as a strategic advantage rather than simply a human resources priority.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Rita Meyerson, Principal Researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, is joined by Matt Pierce, CEO of E4E Relief, to discuss how employee relief programs can help organizations build a more resilient workforce.

Together, they examine how employee financial resilience, organizational culture, and crisis preparedness influence business performance; explore the changing expectations of today's workforce; and explain why helping employees recover quickly from personal crises can strengthen engagement, agility, and long-term organizational resilience.

More from The Conference Board:

· Strategic Integration of HR & Corporate Citizenship: Insights for the C-Suite

· Winning Partnership: HR & Corporate Citizenship

· Organizational Culture: What Really Matters?

· Reinventing the Talent Pipeline in the AI Era

As the US marks its 250th anniversary, what will it take to strengthen the institutions, leadership, and civic trust needed for the next 250 years?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, David Young, President of The Conference Board's CEO Center, is joined by former US Senator Joe Manchin to reflect on America's 250th anniversary and the leadership challenges shaping its future.

Together, they explore the importance of bipartisanship, civic trust, and democratic resilience; discuss the growing influence of political polarization and AI; and consider why compromise, accountability, and common sense remain essential to strengthening American democracy and creating long-term prosperity.

More from The Conference Board:

A super El Niño is forecast to bring more than extreme weather—it could reshape the global economy. From supply chains and insurance markets to commodity prices and infrastructure, how should business leaders prepare before disruption strikes?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland is joined by Dr. Alex Heil, Senior Economist at The Conference Board, to examine the economic implications of a powerful El Niño event.

Together, they discuss which industries face the greatest exposure, how climate volatility can affect enterprise risk and financial performance, and what practical steps organizations can take to strengthen resilience through scenario planning and strategic decision-making.

More from The Conference Board:

· El Niño's Global Reach: The Business Impact of Extreme Weather

· The Global Water Crisis—Mitigation and Adaption in a World of Water Shortages

· The Heat Is On! How Extreme Heat Is Reshaping Business Risk

· At the Climate Crossroads: US Corporate Commitments 10 Years After Paris Accord

US consumer spending has been remarkedly resilient. But will consumers' patience run out?

It's one of the questions on the minds of economists, including Allen Li, Associate Economist at The Conference Board. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Erik Lundh, Global Senior Economist, The Conference Board talks with Allen about the US Consumer Confidence Index.

They begin by examining the latest US Consumer Confidence Survey, discussing why confidence declined in July, how consumers are thinking about inflation, interest rates, employment, and recession risks, and what those expectations could mean for spending in the months ahead.

In the second half of the conversation, the focus shifts to the global economic forecast. Erik explains the reasoning behind the improved global outlook and the shift from consumption-led growth toward investment-led growth in the US.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

2026 is being called "the year of the carve-out." Why are carve-outs so popular right now, and what makes such deals successful?

Join Steve Odland and guest Steve Sapletal, Principal, U.S. Transaction Strategy Practice Leader, KPMG, US, to learn about how to conduct successful carve-outs, why stranded costs can be an overlooked concern, and why you need a business continuity plan as the carve-out is underway.

For more from The Conference Board:

· From Strategy to Value: Building a Proactive Approach to Divestment & Carve Outs

· 2026 M&A Summit - San Francisco

· Mergers & Acquisitions Executives Council

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director, International at The Conference Board, is joined by Nick Davis, Senior Fellow at The Conference Board, Chief Innovation Officer at Mid-Ohio Food Collective, CEO of Shopsight, and author of Future Ready, to discuss what it takes for organizations to thrive in an era of generative AI, accelerating technological change, and constant disruption.

Together, they explore what it means to become future ready; examine how leaders can move beyond isolated AI pilots to enterprise-wide transformation; discuss the operating models, leadership capabilities, and organizational cultures needed to adapt at speed; and share practical lessons on innovation, continuous learning, governance, and building organizations that can turn uncertainty into long-term strategic advantage.

More from The Conference Board:

Reinventing the Talent Pipeline in the AI Era

Upskilling and Reskilling for AI

Culture in Flux: Continuous Change and AI Transformation

The Reimagined Workplace 2026: Adopting AI Today, Poised for Tomorrow

Every generation has the responsibility to continue the Founding Fathers' vision, says Rep. Brad Schneider.

If the Founding Fathers materialized in 2026, they'd likely worry about polarization and threats to checks and balances, but they'd also be amazed by the breadth of American innovation. How can today's leaders reinvigorate civic values and political courage as we enter America's next 250 years?

Join David Young and guest Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Illinois, to find out why every generation has a responsibility to the republic, why today's environment punishes civility and political courage, and what gives him hope about American political and civic life looking forward.

For more from The Conference Board:

250 Years Forward: Strengthening an American Future

America at 250: How Can We Move Past Political Deadlock?

The CEO Center Q2 2026 Impact Report

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Barbara Mendes George, sustainability communications expert and guest host, speaks with Edvin Lindgren, Global Circular Economy Lead at Hitachi Energy, about how the company is embedding circular economy principles into its strategy, operations and customer offering.

Together, they explore the shift from a linear value chain to a value cycle; how circularity can create customer value through longer product life, resource efficiency and new service models; and why data, regulation, collaboration and a clear business case are critical to accelerating progress.

More from The Conference Board:

The EU's Circular Economy Test: Creating Demand at Scale

How Business Can Turn Sustainability Ambition into Commercial Opportunities

Why Reliable Supplier Data Is Now Key to Supply Chain Transparency

In this era of polarization, how can Americans embrace statesmen who find common ground and move the country forward?

The United States has thrived for 250 years despite constant and evolving political differences. But does today's political and civic environment reward the leadership qualities essential to a robust democracy?

Join David Young and guest Rep. Don Bacon, R-Nebraska, to explore how the Founding Fathers would react to America in 2026, why politicians should spend less time on social media and more time with constituents, and why we need more statesman willing to compromise for the common good.

For more from The Conference Board:

250 Years Forward: Strengthening an American Future

America at 250: How Can We Move Past Political Deadlock?

The CEO Center Q2 2026 Impact Report

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director International at The Conference Board and guest host, speaks with Alejandro Fiorito, Economist at The Conference Board Europe, about the economic impact of the war in Iran and the broader geopolitical forces influencing markets and business.

Together, they explore the outlook for global growth; the evolving policy response in Europe and beyond; and why resilience, scenario planning, and adaptability are becoming essential capabilities for business leaders.

More from The Conference Board:

European Consumer Confidence

CEO Confidence Diverges Globally, With Europe Lagging the US and China

What Consumer Confidence Reveals About Europe's Recovery

2 Years Below Neutral: European CEO Confidence Falls as Outlook Deteriorates

Board effectiveness is rising, but so are expectations, according to the latest research.

In 2026, 41% of executives rated their boards as "excellent" or "good," the highest percentage seen by The Conference Board and PwC. What does board effectiveness look like today, and where do boards still need to improve?

Join Brian Campbell and guests Ariane Marchis-Mouren, senior researcher for corporate governance at The Conference Board, and Arielle Berlin, director of the Governance Insights Center at PwC. Find out about why boards struggle with adapting to change, three ways to improve board assessments, and why top board trends have only intensified in the first half of 2026.

For more from The Conference Board:

Board Effectiveness 2026: A Survey of the C-Suite

Director Bandwidth Is Becoming a More Visible Test of Board Effectiveness

Modernizing Board Governance for Today's Risk Environment

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Barbara Mendes-Jorge, Sustainability Communications Expert and guest host, is joined by Arnaud Marqui, Chief Sustainability and Safety Officer at Tarkett, to explore how the circular economy is transforming business models and helping companies build long-term resilience.

Together, they discuss Tarkett's circular economy journey, the role of product design and take-back programs in reducing waste, and how business leaders can balance sustainability investments with commercial success while preparing for a more resource-constrained future.

More from The Conference Board:

EU Regulatory Outlook: The Way Ahead for 2026

Corporate Governance in an Era of Sustained Disruption

Europe 2026: Competitiveness, Clean Industrial Policy, and Institutional Reform

How Businesses Can Turn Sustainability Ambition into Commercial Opportunities

How are US consumers feeling as summer begins — and what should business leaders know about the growing economic impact of extreme heat?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Dana M. Peterson, Chief Economist and Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center at The Conference Board, is joined by Alex Heil, Senior Economist.

They begin by examining the latest US Consumer Confidence Survey, discussing why confidence improved modestly in June, how consumers are thinking about inflation, interest rates, employment, and recession risks, and what those expectations could mean for spending in the months ahead.

In the second half of the conversation, the focus shifts to one of the defining business challenges of our time: extreme heat. Alex explains how rising temperatures are affecting workers, productivity, energy systems, supply chains, and business operations around the world, while highlighting practical considerations for executives looking to build resilience.

For more from The Conference Board:

Carbon reporting gives you data but isn't a strategy. How do businesses like DuPont put that data into context so they can make better, smarter business decisions?

Join Steve Odland and guest Scott Collick, chief sustainability officer and vice president of sustainability and regulatory compliance at DuPont. Learn how Collick defines "carbon fluency," why companies should switch from spend-based models to activity-based models, and why sustainability needs to be fully integrated with the rest of the business.

For more from The Conference Board:

Measuring Sustainability ROI in an Era of Risk & Resilience

Did US Companies Pull Back from Sustainability Reporting in 2025?

Corporate GHG Emissions Progress: Scope 1 and Scope 2 in Focus

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director, International at The Conference Board, is joined by Matei Farcas and Konstantinos Panitsas of The Conference Board Europe to analyze the latest Consumer Confidence Index findings for the Euro Area.

Together, they discuss the factors shaping consumer sentiment; explore how inflation expectations, labor market concerns, and geopolitical developments are influencing household behavior; and consider what business leaders should watch as they navigate a more cautious consumer environment.

More from The Conference Board:

Euro Area Consumer Confidence Stabilized in Early 2026 but Remains Weak

European Consumer Confidence database

2 Years Below Neutral: European CEO Confidence Falls as Outlook Deteriorates

Where to Hire: Europe 2026

As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, there are questions about the future of leadership, citizenship, and civic life in a country that seems increasingly polarized. How can higher education develop young people to be the citizens and leaders we need?

Join David Young and guest Katherine A. Rowe, president, William & Mary, to learn about the university's role in educating American founders, why students should develop civic leadership skills, and how William & Mary encourages better arguments.

For more from The Conference Board:

250 Years Forward: Strengthening an American Future

America at 250: How Can We Move Past Political Deadlock?

A Stable Democracy at 250: Trusted Elections as the Foundation

This episode was recorded on June 15 as part of the Policy Talks series hosted by The Conference Board.

Up to 330,000 companies could receive tariff refunds because of the Supreme Court ruling that invalidated a swath of tariffs. How can communication leaders tell a story about the tariff refunds that builds trust across stakeholders, including employees, customers, and investors?

Join Ivan Pollard and guests Davy Young, president of The CEO Center, John Gardner, head of public policy and research at The CEO Center, and Denise Dahlhoff, head of research at the Marketing & Communications Center at The Conference Board. They discuss why the court battles over tariff refunds aren't fully resolved, why new tariffs are likely to be issued, and why communications has become a central, collaborative function across the enterprise.

For more from The Conference Board:

The Tariff Refund Process

Intersections: Communications + Government Relations

CCOs Have a Seat at the Table. Now What?

The Federal Reserve held its first meeting Wednesday since Kevin Warsh succeeded Jerome Powell as chair. What can we learn from Warsh's statements and the Fed's unanimous decision to leave rates unchanged?

Join Dana M. Peterson and guest Yelena Shulyatyeva, senior US economist at The Conference Board, to hear about the potential impact of Warsh's task forces, why we're likely to see less Fed communication, and whether the Fed will prioritize inflation over the labor market.

For more from The Conference Board:

FOMC Decision: There's a Task Force for That

June FOMC Preview: Meet the Warsh Fed: Rates on Hold, Communication in Focus

What Could the Fed Look Like Under Kevin Warsh?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Barbara Mendes-Jorge, Sustainability Communications Expert and guest host, speaks with Susan Stenson, Founder of Sustainable Boards on the gap between boards that function and boards that truly perform.

They examine how boards can prepare for geopolitical disruption, emerging technology risks, and an increasingly complex operating environment; discuss the role of scenario planning and governance in effective oversight; and highlight the conversations boards need to have before a crisis emerges.

More from The Conference Board:

Board Effectiveness 2026: A Survey of the C-Suite

From Principles to Practice: Governing AI in the Corporation

AI Policies and Regulation in the EU: What Companies Need to Know

What Drives CEO Succession Today—And Are Boards Ready?

Companies are increasingly focused on employee performance, which is challenging but also gives CHROs and CFOs an opportunity to collaborate. How can these key functions work together to reinforce culture, drive organizational change, and influence the CEO and board?

Join host Diana Scott and guests Henry Artalejo, SVP of global human resources at Griffith Foods, Matt Corker, EVP and chief financial officer at Griffith Foods, and Maria Colacurcio, CEO of Syndio. Find out what defines a people-first organization in 2026, how the CHRO-CFO partnership can drive culture and compensation conversations, and why AI transformation is an opportunity for HR to rebrand itself.

This special episode was recorded on June 3 at the 2026 CHRO Summit, hosted by The Conference Board in Chicago.

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In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director, International at The Conference Board Europe, is joined by Alejandro Fiorito, Economist at The Conference Board Europe, to unpack the latest results from the Measure of CEO Confidence for Europe survey.

Together, they examine the factors weighing on CEO confidence; explore signs of resilience at the industry level; and discuss how European business leaders view geopolitical risks, long-term competitiveness, and growth opportunities both within and beyond Europe.

More from The Conference Board:

2 Years Below Neutral: European CEO Confidence Falls as Outlook Deteriorates

Measure of CEO Confidence for Europe Dashboard

CEO Confidence Still Wavering, Investments Stalled, EU Reforms in the Spotlight

The 2026 Agenda for Business Leaders: Reimagining the Future in Europe

Amid polarization and deadlock, how can people in the United States better understand the habits and responsibilities that sustain a free society?

The United States has practiced the same type of government since the late 1700s, enduring through vast societal and technological changes. What are the biggest political challenges facing America as it turns 250, and how can citizens lead the country forward?

Join David Young and guest Yuval Levin, director of social, cultural, and constitutional studies at the American Enterprise Institute, to find out why today's era reminds Levin of the Gilded Age, why political leaders must embrace coalition-building, and why today's challenges are numerous but far from insurmountable.

For more from The Conference Board:

250 Years Forward: Strengthening an American Future

A Stable Democracy at 250: Trusted Elections as the Foundation

Trusted Elections Are the Foundation of Economic Growth and Business Confidence

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Barbara Mendes-Jorge, sustainability communications expert and guest host, speaks with Tashmeem Muntazir Chowdhury, senior vice president and head of ESG and sustainable finance at BRAC Bank, about the changing landscape of sustainable finance and the growing expectations of ESG investors.

They discuss why sustainability is becoming a business imperative rather than a compliance exercise; how companies can strengthen investor confidence through better data, governance, and reporting; and why sustainable finance continues to gain momentum despite evolving regulations and market scrutiny. The conversation also examines sustainable finance opportunities in Bangladesh and the role of public-private partnerships in supporting climate resilience and inclusive growth.

More from The Conference Board:

· EU Regulatory Outlook: The Way Ahead for 2026

· The Sustainability Reset

· Corporate Governance in an Era of Sustained Disruption

· Europe 2026: Competitiveness, Clean Industrial Policy, and Institutional Reform

The US is still the premier investment opportunity. Marc S. Cooper of Solomon Partners explains why.

This special episode was recorded on May 6 at the 2026 M&A Summit, hosted by The Conference Board in New York.

After last year's strong M&A market, 2026 is being powered by corporate strategic acquisitions. What's the overall health of M&A and of the US as an investment opportunity?

Join Steve Odland and guest Marc S. Cooper, chairman and CEO of Solomon Partners, to find out the state of the deals market, the challenges facing middle market private equity, and why the US remains the world's top destination.

For more from The Conference Board:

2026 M&A Summit - New York

Reshaping Strategy: Navigating M&A in the Next Era

Deregulation Reshapes Financial Oversight

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, Managing Director International at The Conference Board, speaks with Max Zenglein, Center Leader for Economy, Strategy & Finance in Asia at The Conference Board, about how economic security and geopolitical rivalry are reshaping global trade and business strategy across Asia.

They discuss the erosion of the rules-based trading system; the growing intersection of trade, national security, and industrial policy; and why companies must rethink efficiency, resilience, and risk in a more fragmented global economy. The conversation also explores supply chain vulnerabilities, shifting trade alliances, and how business leaders can navigate uncertainty while identifying new opportunities for growth.

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The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® dipped 0.7 points to 93.1 in May, down from an upwardly revised 93.8 in April, continuing a downward trend for consumer confidence since late 2024.

The Present Situation Index—based on consumers' assessment of current business and labor market conditions—retreated by 3.2 points to 121.2. The Expectations Index—based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—rose by 1.0 points to 74.4.

The survey period for this month's preliminary results was May 1–19, encompassing the ongoing war in the Middle East that is placing upward pressure on prices globally. Join Dana M Peterson and Alex Heil to find out what to make of the latest consumer confidence results and what's next for US energy markets.

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Generative AI and other technologies are transforming clinical research and trials. Find out how it's done.

The clinical trials sector is risk-averse, heavily regulated, and not often thought of as a technology first-mover. How is Merck changing that perception by using AI to improve insights, innovation, and operations?

Join Steve Odland and guest Jennifer Sheller, senior vice president and head of global clinical trial operations at Merck, to find out how the company is using AI for clinical research and clinical trials, why "human in the loop" remains essential, and how Merck thinks about the ethical, safety, and privacy considerations of digital health.

For more from The Conference Board:

How AI Can Help Remedy the US Health Care Workforce Crisis

Health Care Workforce Policy Summit: Insight Summary

Navigating the Health Care Landscape in 2026

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Barbara Mendes-Jorge, sustainability communications expert and guest host, speaks with Fabienne Crisovan, group head of governance, ESG legal, and corporate law at Zurich Insurance Group, about how companies can measure the return on investment of sustainability initiatives through the lens of risk, resilience, and long-term value creation.

They discuss why sustainability should be embedded into core business strategy rather than treated as a compliance exercise; how insurers assess climate and ESG risks; and the growing role of governance in building trust with investors, regulators, employees, and customers. The conversation also explores greenwashing, sustainability-related litigation, and why sustainability and profitability are increasingly interconnected.

More from The Conference Board:

· EU Regulatory Outlook: The Way Ahead for 2026

· AI and the New Cyber Risk Landscape: Disclosure Gaps in the S&P Europe 350

· The Sustainability Reset

· Corporate Governance in an Era of Sustained Disruption

IBM's chief legal officer explains how governance drives AI success through trust, transparency, and employee adoption.

Enterprises are learning that employees won't use AI if they don't trust it. How can the right governance policies help companies improve AI adoption while also increasing innovation?

Join Steve Odland and guest Anne Robinson, senior vice president and chief legal officer at IBM, to find out how AI trust ties directly to AI adoption, why companies need to be clear about the problems they're trying to solve, and how the public sector is grappling with AI.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Marion Devine, principal researcher at The Conference Board's European Human Capital Center, speaks with James Williams, head of global total rewards at Ericsson, about the realities of preparing for the EU Pay Transparency Directive and what it means for organizations across Europe.

They discuss the opportunities and challenges of greater pay transparency, how organizations are balancing compliance with culture change, and why manager readiness will be critical to success. The conversation also explores fairness, employee trust, pay equity, and the practical complexities of implementing transparency across multiple countries and evolving local regulations.

More from The Conference Board:

· The Reimagined Workplace 2026

· Reimagine 2025: Human Capital Leadership in an Era of Disruption

· Where to Hire: Europe 2026

· Europe's Pay Transparency Law: Companies Scramble to the Finish Line

AI is a powerful accelerant for performance systems, but only when employees trust the system. Here's how Microsoft does it.

Artificial intelligence is helping enterprises improve their performance systems and incentives. How can companies capitalize on this opportunity while also instilling trust, governance, and clarity that motivates employees and improves their decision-making?

Join Diana Scott, Human Capital Center Leader at The Conference Board, and guest Nandini Ramaswamy, corporate vice president of seller incentives at Microsoft, to find out how Microsoft uses AI to improve performance-based decision-making, why trust is the crucial differentiator, and how to measure whether your AI strategy is working.

For more from The Conference Board:

Important Human Skills in the Age of AI

How Leaders Can Close the AI Readiness Gap

The Reimagined Workplace 2026

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Martin Wiese, leader of the European Governance & Sustainability Center at The Conference Board, speaks with Dr. Márcia Balisciano, chief sustainability officer and global head of corporate responsibility at RELX, about how companies can move from sustainability ambition to measurable impact.

They discuss the shift from reporting to execution, how sustainability drives financial performance, and what it takes to embed sustainability into commercial strategy and innovation.

More from The Conference Board:

· What's Next for ESG Legislation in Europe?

· Europe 2026: Competitiveness, Clean Industrial Policy, and Industrial Reform

· EU Regulatory Outlook: The Way Ahead for 2026

· Corporate Governance in an Era of Sustained Disruption

How are companies translating their AI principles into practice?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, speaks with Andrew Jones, PhD, Principal Researcher at The Conference Board Governance & Sustainability Center, about how companies are putting AI governance into practice.

They discuss how AI is rapidly moving into core business operations and what that means for risk management, accountability, and leadership. The conversation explores how organizations are shifting from high-level AI principles to formal governance structures; the rise of cross-functional oversight; and the growing role of boards in AI strategy. The discussion also covers emerging challenges, including regulatory complexity, cybersecurity threats, and workforce disruption.

More from The Conference Board:

From Principles to Practice: Governing AI in the Corporation

Top 5 Corporate Governance Priorities for 2026

Governing Through Uncertainty: US Boardroom Priorities for 2026

AI and Environmental Sustainability: Risks, Opportunities, and What Comes Next

AI Risk Disclosures in the S&P 500: Reputation, Cybersecurity, and Regulation

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Barbara Mendes-Jorge, Sustainability Communications Expert and guest host, speaks with Manali Paranjpe, Program Director of the Governance & Sustainability Center at The Conference Board Europe, about how sustainability is being integrated into European businesses' corporate strategy.

They explore a range of insights from C-suite leaders, including on recent ESG regulatory changes, resilience as a growth strategy, how the role of CSIO has evolved, and what these developments mean for the future of sustainable business in Europe.

More from The Conference Board:

Consumer confidence has ticked up slightly from March but remains low, and the global economic outlook has been downgraded for a second time.

The growing impact of tariffs, inflation and ongoing war is extending to consumers' expectations for their incomes, job prospects and overall confidence in the economy. The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® edged up by 0.6 points to 92.8 (1985=100) in April, from 92.2 in March's upwardly revised reading.

The Present Situation Index — based on consumers' assessment of current business and labor market conditions — retreated, while the Expectations Index — based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions — rose.

Join Dana M Peterson and Erik Lundh, to find out what to make of the latest consumer confidence results and what's next for the global economy.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, President and CEO of The Conference Board, speaks with Gillian Riley, President of The Conference Board of Canada*, about what business leaders need to know when operating in and with Canada.

They discuss how CEOs are navigating heightened volatility, evolving US-Canada trade tensions, and a shifting economic landscape. The conversation explores Canada's resilience; the need for trade diversification; and the country's opportunities in energy, AI, and global finance. They also examine talent challenges, productivity gaps, and how leaders can build organizational resilience in an increasingly uncertain environment.

More from The Conference Board:

The Conference Board of Canada

Global Economic Outlook

*The Conference Board of Canada and Signal49 Research are separate, unaffiliated entities.

What does the ongoing conflict in the Middle East mean for European markets? Join Sara Murray and Alejandro Fiorito as they unpack the latest developments and economic implications.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Diana Scott, leader of the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, is joined by Robin Erickson, head of human capital research, and Matt Maloof, human capital researcher, to discuss insights from The Reimagined Workplace 2026: Adopting AI Today, Poised for Tomorrow.

They explore how organizations are assessing and accelerating AI maturity, why most remain in early stages of adoption, and what it takes to build AI fluency across the workforce. The conversation also examines the evolving balance between hybrid and onsite work; the growing importance of flexibility in total rewards; and how leaders can address talent, retention, and well-being challenges while reimagining the workplace.

More from The Conference Board:

The Reimagined Workplace 2026: Adopting AI Today, Poised for Tomorrow

CHROs Navigating Uncertainty to Drive Growth

Enhancing Employee Engagement: 5 Often-Forgotten Fundamentals

Off-Site, Out of Mind? Overcoming the Downsides of Hybrid Work

Join Bárbara Mendes-Jorge and guest Radhika Ralhan, an ESG and sustainability global impact leader and a guest lecturer at the Maastricht School of Management, to find out how the EU compares with India and the US, why she's excited about the Circular Economy Act, and why younger generations are unafraid to question a company's commitment to sustainability.

For more from The Conference Board:

Guardrails to Prevent Greenwashing

Top 5 Corporate Governance Priorities for 2026

The Sustainability Reset

What if water -- not energy or labor -- becomes your biggest business constraint?

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, president and CEO of The Conference Board, sits down with Alex Heil, senior economist at The Conference Board, to examine the rising business risks tied to water scarcity.

They discuss how limited freshwater supply, aging infrastructure, and inefficient use are creating new pressures on industries, and why leaders need to factor water risk into strategy and operations.

More from The Conference Board:

A Global Water Crisis—Mitigation and Adaption in a World of Water Shortages

Till the Well Runs Dry: How Companies Can Shore Up Against Global Water Scarcity

Running Dry: The US Southwest Water Crisis

At the Climate Crossroads: US Corporate Commitments 10 Years After Paris Accord

Rising Stakes: Climate Impacts Worsen as World Set to Miss Paris Agreement Goals

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Sara Murray, managing director, international at The Conference Board, speaks with Robin Maillard, researcher in the Human Capital Center at The Conference Board, Europe, about where multinationals should hire in today's shifting European labor market.

They explore how the Where to Hire Index helps leaders balance skills, cost, productivity, and long-term competitiveness when making strategic workforce decisions.

More from The Conference Board:

· Where to Hire: Europe 2026

· Reimagine 2025: Human Capital Leadership in an Era of Disruption

· Five EU Directives CHROs Must Prepare for in 2025

· Navigating Europe's Tight Labor Market

· Steady Hands in Stormy Seas: Human Capital as the Anchor of Business Resilience

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, president and CEO of The Conference Board, sits down with Jennifer Eggers, founder and president of LeaderShift Insights, to explore what it truly takes to succeed at the highest levels of leadership.

They discuss why transitioning to the C-Suite is more challenging than many expect, the mindset shifts required to lead at an enterprise level, and the most common mistakes new executives make. Jennifer shares practical insights on stakeholder management, building influence, and preparing for the complexities of senior leadership.

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What Drives CEO Succession—And Are Boards Ready?

CEO Succession Practices in the Russell 3000 and S&P 500: 2025 Edition

The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence

From Talent Democratization to Differentiation: The CHRO's Next Balancing Act

Consumer confidence has ticked up slightly but remains low in the face of tariffs, spiking prices and war.

The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® edged up in March to 91.8 (1985=100), from 91.0 in February. The Present Situation Index—based on consumers' assessment of current business and labor market conditions—increased by 4.6 points to 123.3. The Expectations Index—based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—declined by 1.7 points to 70.9.

While not obvious in the headline or its component indexes, the weight of rising costs due to tariff passthrough and spiking oil prices was evident among other measures in the survey like inflation expectations.

Join Yelena Shulyatyeva and guest Allen Li, Associate Economist, The Conference Board, to find out what's behind consumers' current and future expectations.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

In this episode, Dana Peterson, leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance (ESF) Center at The Conference Board, speaks with Malala Lin, economic research associate at the ESF Center, about new research on shifting consumer habits. They explore the widespread move toward value seeking, how strategies differ across income groups, and what these changes signal for businesses planning in an uncertain environment.

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Cutting Back and Making Trade-offs: How Consumers Are Managing Food Costs

How Are Consumers Paying for Health Care?

Will E-Wallets and Deferred Payments Overtake Cash and Credit Cards?

Fur Babies: How Are US Consumers Financing Veterinary Care?

China remains one of the most essential -- and complex -- markets for global companies. In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, host Steve Odland sits down with David Hoffman, Senior Advisor and China Center Leader at The Conference Board, to unpack what's really happening on the ground.

Fresh from a three-week visit to Beijing and Shanghai, David shares a nuanced view of a market in transition: slower growth, ongoing real estate challenges, and a policy environment that is becoming less market driven. Yet, despite these headwinds, China continues to offer unmatched scale, a deeply capable supply chain, and increasingly rapid innovation cycles that make it indispensable for companies competing globally.

The conversation also explores the rising strength of Chinese competitors, whose gains in design, quality, and cost are reshaping industries worldwide. Against a backdrop of geopolitical tension and trade frictions, companies are adapting through "China for China" strategies: localizing operations to build resilience while navigating a more fragmented global landscape.

For more from The Conference Board:

All China Center Research

China Economy Watch

China Consumption Quarterly Roundup

In this episode, Brian Campbell, leader of the Governance & Sustainability Center at The Conference Board, is joined by Blair Jones and Greg Arnold, managing directors at Semler Brossy, to examine the evolving role of the board in CEO selection and transition. Drawing on recent research, they discuss internal versus external hires, the signaling challenges boards face, and how disciplined succession planning can protect long-term value and organizational resilience.

More from The Conference Board:

CEO Succession Practices in the Russell 3000 and S&P 500: 2025 Edition

CEO Insight Minute: How Are CEO Succession Trends Shifting in 2025?

CEO Succession and Representation of Women in European Companies

CEO Succession Practices in the Russell 3000 and S&P 500: 2024 Edition

As climate extremes intensify, resilient infrastructure is no longer a future consideration; it is a present-day imperative.

Alex Heil, senior economist at The Conference Board, speaks with Greg Stonehouse, chief strategy officer at HDR, about how infrastructure design is evolving in response to rising climate risk. From transportation and water systems to health care and energy facilities, they explore how resilience is becoming a core design parameter rather than an add-on.

The conversation examines the economics of resilient investment, the growing role of nature-based solutions, advances in data and real-time system controls, and how cross-sector collaboration is reshaping the future of infrastructure.

For more from The Conference Board:

At the Climate Crossroads: US Corporate Commitments 10 Years After Paris Accord

Extreme Impacts: Severe Weather Events Create Growing Risks for US Businesses

Rising Stakes: Climate Impacts Worsen as World Set to Miss Paris Agreement Goals

Window On: The Business Impact of Intensifying Natural Disasters

Flooding Is Getting Worse. What Should Businesses Do?

New global data reveals strong employee support for diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI)—but also a widening gap between how leaders view progress and how workers experience it.

Allan Schweyer, principal researcher in the Human Capital Center, speaks with Marion Devine, principal researcher, Human Capital Europe, and Matthew Maloof, researcher, Human Capital Center, about findings from a survey of more than 1,300 employees across the US, Europe, and Asia.

They explore why managers are the make-or-break factor in DEI success, how regional attitudes differ, and what senior leaders can do to strengthen credibility in a climate of political and cultural pushback.

For more from The Conference Board:

Bridging International Perspectives: Exploring DEI

Evidence Over Optics: Proving the Impact of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Advancing Opportunity and Access: Linking DEI to Business Outcomes

A Tale of Two Continents: The Impact of US DEI Policy on European Businesses

The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® increased by 2.2 points in February to 91.2 (1985=100), from an upwardly revised 89.0 in January. The Present Situation Index—based on consumers' assessment of current business and labor market conditions—decreased by 1.8 points to 120.0 in February. The Expectations Index—based on consumers' short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions—rose by 4.8 points to 72.0.

Join Dana M. Peterson and guest Malala Lin, Economic Research Associate, to find out what's behind consumers' expectations for the future, and where CEOs are focusing their growth efforts this year.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

C-Suite Outlook 2026

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

Three years into the conflict, the Ukraine war has evolved into a brutal war of attrition—with implications far beyond the battlefield.

The Conference Board CEO Steve Odland and Dr. Lori Esposito Murray, a global affairs consultant most recently with the Council on Foreign Relations and the Committee for Economic Development, discuss the history underpinning the conflict, the realities on the ground, and the economic and political pressures facing both Kyiv and Moscow.

From sanctions and shifting alliances to the possibility of a frozen conflict or negotiated settlement, they explore how the war is reshaping geopolitics—and what may come next.

For more from The Conference Board:

The US Critical Minerals Ministerial and Industrial Policy

Three Years of War in Ukraine – And an Extraordinary Week

US–Ukraine Negotiations and Possible Ceasefire

Global Grey Swans Tool

Learn why companies need to understand AI's promise and potential drawbacks for environmental sustainability.

More than 60% of companies are using AI to support or advance environmental sustainability. What are the use cases they're exploring, and how can businesses also guard against the environmental risks of AI?

Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, PhD, principal researcher at the Governance & Sustainability Center of The Conference Board, to learn about the environmental impact of AI-focused data centers, how companies are capitalizing on AI for sustainability, and how sustainability leaders can demonstrate the ROI of AI applications.

For more from The Conference Board:

AI and Environmental Sustainability: Risks, Opportunities, and What Comes Next

Exiting International Climate Pacts Will Leave The US Isolated

AI Risk Disclosures in the S&P 500: Reputation, Cybersecurity, and Regulation

Find out what's new in CEO and executive compensation, including say-on-pay practices and SEC regulations.

CEO pay in the S&P 500 increased 7% year-over-year in 2025, with stock awards as the largest driver. What are the latest trends in CEO and executive compensation for governance teams and boards to consider?

Join Steve Odland and guest Dana Etra, managing director and head of the Boston office at FW Cook, to find out why some perquisites are being viewed through a risk and duty-of-care lens, how say-on-pay approaches have evolved, and why companies should watch for SEC changes to disclosure requirements.

For more from The Conference Board:

CEO and Executive Compensation Practices in the Russell 3000 and S&P 500: 2025

Pay Ratios: CEO and C-Suite Compensation in the Russell 3000 and S&P 500

Executive Compensation Benchmarking Tool

Find out what Kevin Warsh's nomination for Fed chair means for interest rates—and the potential Senate battle ahead.

Kevin Warsh has been known as an inflation hawk. Will that change if he is confirmed as Federal Reserve chair, and what could that mean for the economy?

Join Yelena Shulyatyeva and guest John Gardner, head of public policy and research at the Committee for Economic Development (CED), the public policy center of The Conference Board, to find out Warsh's background, the potential roadblocks in the Senate, and what Warsh has said about the 1951 Federal Reserve-Treasury Accord.

For more from The Conference Board:

Trump v. Cook: Is the Fed Special?

Can Fed Governors be Fired?

How Does the Fed Work?

Learn what C-Suite Outlook 2026 reveals for marketing and communications executives as organizations prepare for the rise of A-Commerce (Agentic Commerce)—a new model of commerce driven by autonomous, AI-powered agents. CEOs and CMOs agree: boosting profitability through business model change is a top priority in 2026, according to The Conference Board C-Suite Outlook 2026 survey. But how should marketing leaders drive that profitability growth in an era increasingly shaped by agentic AI? Join Steve Odland and guest Ivan Pollard, leader of the Marketing & Communications Center at The Conference Board, to find out what CEOs, CMOs and CCOs are prioritizing this year, why agentic commerce is the next emerging trend, and why customer experience becomes even more critical as AI agents automate decisions and interactions across the customer journey.

For more from The Conference Board:

C-Suite Outlook 2026

CMOs' 2026 Growth Plans: Advancing the C-Suite Agenda

Today's CMO: AI Savvy and Skills Focused

Finding skilled talent remains difficult. Find out how CEOs and CHROs plan to develop their workforce this year.

Nearly 37% of CEOs say finding qualified workers is a challenge, according to the C-Suite Outlook 2026 survey by The Conference Board. How have labor challenges evolved since the Great Resignation, and what can CEOs do to attract and keep skilled talent in 2026?

Join Steve Odland and guest Diana Scott, US Human Capital Center leader at The Conference Board, to find out why AI requires HR to rethink job roles and skills sets, how CEOs and CHROs rank priorities such as productivity and organizational transformation, and which policy issues HR leaders are monitoring.

For more from The Conference Board:

Uncertainty and Opportunity: The CEO Playbook for 2026

The CEO Outlook for 2026—Uncertainty, Risks, Growth & Strategy

Transforming Organizations for AI: Critical Factors for AI Success

Consumer confidence has plummeted. What does it mean for the economy?

The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index® fell sharply in January, from 94.2 in December to 84.5. Consumers' assessment of both current business and labor market conditions, and their short-term outlook of the same, fell by 9.9 and 9.5 points, respectively, to 65.1, well below the threshold of 80 that typically signals a recession ahead.

Write-in responses showed a continuation in references to prices and inflation, oil and gas prices, and food and grocery prices. Mentions of tariffs and trade, politics, and the labor market also rose in January.

Join Dana M. Peterson and guest Erin McLaughlin, Senior Economist, to find out what's behind consumers' thinking and the current state of US trade.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

Find out how governance and sustainability are evolving, including what's next for ESG.

Change is coming for governance leaders, whether it's the evolution of ESG, the risks around AI, or an increased focus on strategic execution. How can these executives adapt in this rapidly changing and uncertain environment?

Join Steve Odland and guest Brian Campbell, leader of the US Governance & Sustainability Center and general counsel at The Conference Board, to find out why ESG is becoming more disciplined, why AI presents both opportunities and risks, and why revenue growth is increasingly part of the governance team's remit.

For more from The Conference Board:

C-Suite Outlook 2026

CEO and C-Suite ESG Priorities for 2026

2026: A Year in Preview

CEOs are increasingly at risk, both physically and digitally. Find out what's new in corporate risk preparedness.

The killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in 2024 has forced companies to rethink their executive security posture, both in terms of physical and digital security. How can companies and boards assess their security readiness?

Join Steve Odland and guest Bill Udell, CEO of Control Risks' Americas region, to learn about how executive security has evolved in recent years, the biggest gaps in risk preparedness, and why AI and deepfakes only complicate the security challenges.

For more from The Conference Board:

CEO and Executive Compensation Practices in the Russell 3000 and S&P 500: 2025

Report: Women CEOs Outearn Men, and Companies Increase CEO Security Packages

AI Risk Disclosures in the S&P 500: Reputation, Cybersecurity, and Regulation

Our latest C-Suite Outlook reveals CEOs' biggest concerns—and why they're measuring the ROI of AI.

US CEOs rank economic and geopolitical uncertainty as top risk factors for 2026, according to the C-Suite Outlook 2026 survey from The Conference Board. How can CEOs overcome the lack of policy certainty while making investments that lead to long-term success?

Join Steve Odland and guest David Young, president of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board, to find out why CEOs continue to seek regulatory consistency, how they plan to grow their businesses this year, and how CEOs are evolving their view of AI investment.

For more from The Conference Board:

Uncertainty and Opportunity: The CEO Playbook for 2026

The CEO Outlook for 2026—Uncertainty, Risks, Growth & Strategy

2026: A Year in Preview

The survey would not have been possible without the support of Ipsos, one of the world's leading market research companies and the sole sponsor for the C-Suite Outlook Survey 2026.

Find out how CEOs are planning to win this year amid a world of uncertainty.

As 2026 begins, CEOs are worried about uncertainty — in the economy, geopolitics, trade policy, supply chains, and more. What does the C-Suite Outlook 2026 survey tell us about how CEOs plan to grow and invest despite the headwinds?

Join Steve Odland and guest Dana M. Peterson, chief economist at The Conference Board and leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, to find out what's next for AI, which areas companies are investing in, and where CEOs are optimistic for 2026.

For more from The Conference Board:

Uncertainty and Opportunity: The CEO Playbook for 2026

The CEO Outlook for 2026—Uncertainty, Risks, Growth & Strategy

2026: A Year in Preview

Learn how companies can develop a strategy to redesign their structures and processes for AI.

AI not only transforms how companies operate, it's also transforming how they differentiate, according to a new report by The Conference Board. How can companies reimagine themselves with AI at every level of the enterprise?

Join Steve Odland and guests Erka Amursi and Matt Rosenbaum, both principal researchers at The Conference Board Human Capital Center, to find out what makes AI different than previous technologies, why AI strategy needs to mix " top-down and bottom-up elements," and why human-designed systems need to be reimagined for an AI world.

For more from The Conference Board:

Transforming Organizations for AI: Critical Factors for AI Success

How Are GEO & AI Agents Transforming Reputation Management?

Workers' AI Optimism Abounds: How Workers Say AI Affects Their Jobs

Learn how businesses can store and even process goods without incurring immediate tariff obligations.

The effective US tariff rate soared to 17% in 2025. What options are available to businesses that need to import goods but want to mitigate tariff burdens?

Join Alex Heil and guest Erin McLaughlin, senior economist at The Conference Board in the Economy, Strategy & Finance (ESF) Center, to find out what foreign trade zones and bonded warehouses are, how they differ from each other, and how businesses can use them wisely in this uncertain tariff environment.

For more from The Conference Board:

Supply Chain Strategies for Tariffs: Foreign Trade Zones, Bonded Warehouses

Tariff Tracker

For Manufacturers, This Old Solution May Ease Today's Tariff Troubles

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Dana Peterson and Allen Li unpack the latest Consumer Confidence Index® and the surprisingly strong Q3 US GDP report.

US consumer confidence edged lower in December, marking the fifth consecutive monthly decline and ending the year on a cautious note. While confidence improved after the federal government shutdown ended, expectations for the next six months remain weak, at levels that are often associated with rising recession risk.

On the upside, Q3 GDP grew at a 4.3% annualized rate, well above expectations. Strong consumer spending, particularly on services and healthcare, drove much of this. Dana and Allen also discuss how data disruptions from the government shutdown may affect future revisions and what the report could mean for Q4 growth and Federal Reserve policy.

For more from The Conference Board:

Consumer Confidence Index

Robust Q3: Finding a Signal in the Noise

Only 33% of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic gets recycled in the US. What are the obstacles, and how can businesses contribute to greater plastics sustainability and circularity?

Join Alex Heil and guest John Galt, chairman and former CEO of Husky Technologies, to learn about designing an extended producer responsibility system, why most microplastics originate in vehicle tires and city dust, and how businesses can reduce "material tourism" to save money and increase sustainability.

For more from The Conference Board:

Circular Economy and Corporate Sustainability: Emerging Practices

Sustainability Under Scrutiny: Corporate ESG in an Uncertain Policy Environment

Effective Sustainability Messaging Should Tap Emotions

What is neuro-symbolic AI, and how can it help businesses generate value in new ways?

If generative AI is a productivity engine, then neuro-symbolic AI promises to be the growth engine that turns data into business value. But what is this technology, and why should C-Suite leaders move quickly to explore its potential?

Join Ivan Pollard and guest Jeff Schumacher, Growth Platforms leader at EY-Parthenon, to find out how neuro-symbolic AI differs from other AI, how it avoids problems of inaccuracy and bias, and what we can learn from "Moneyball."

For more from The Conference Board:

Is AI Delivering? The ROI on AI

AI Search and Its Impact on Marketing

Learning for the Future: Preparing Organizations and Workers for AI Disruption

AI is driving the next wave of corporate reinvention, moving beyond efficiency toward creativity and strategic insight. For business leaders, the question is no longer whether to use AI but how to lead with it.

In conversation with John Metselaar, The Conference Board CEO Steve Odland explores the new frontier of human-machine collaboration. The episode highlights how forward-looking leaders are using AI to improve decisions, fuel creativity, and drive growth.

For more from The Conference Board:

AI: The Next Transformation

AI Leadership Summit Event Insights

How Business Model Coherence Unlocks Value Amid the Digital Transformation

2026 is almost here. Find out what risks CEOs are prioritizing in the year ahead.

CEOs have had to spend much of this year dealing with the fallout from tariffs and a government shutdown, but those challenges are far from resolved. What are the biggest risks CEOs are thinking about as the new year approaches?

Join Steve Odland and guest David Young, president of the Committee for Economic Development, the public policy center of The Conference Board, to find out why tariffs will continue regardless of the Supreme Court decision, the increasing challenge of US fiscal debt and deficits, and how organizations can lean into AI.

For more from The Conference Board:

Tariff Tracker

Global Gray Swans Tool

What Business Leaders Need to Know About Global Trade

Consumer expectations for six months in the future continued to worsen in November, and confidence fell to its second-lowest level this year. Will holiday spending turn the tide on this rising pessimism?

Join Dana M Peterson, Chief Economist and Center Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, and Malala Lin, Economic Research Associate, both of The Conference Board, to find out how consumers are approaching holiday shopping this year, whether and how tariffs are factoring into their spending, and why health care costs are increasingly top of mind.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

AI is redefining what effective leadership development looks like. Coaching, once limited to the few, can now reach the many, empowering managers and employees alike.

Diana Scott welcomes Allan Schweyer, both of The Conference Board, to discuss how embedding AI coaches into daily workflows is redefining employee development, scaling mentorship, and enabling organizations to cultivate a more agile and emotionally intelligent workforce.

For more from The Conference Board:

A Coach for Every Worker: Scaling Access and Performance with AI

Does AI Coaching Work?

Activating the AI Coach: Effective Implementation Strategies for CHROs

Globalization is being rewritten as geopolitics, trade, and industrial policy collide. Shifting alliances are reshaping markets, supply chains, and the balance of economic power.

In this episode, Steve Odland of The Conference Board, speaks with Maria Demertzis about what these shifts mean for corporate decision-makers. Together, they share how business leaders can adapt to rising uncertainty and build resilience in a fragmented world.

For more from The Conference Board:

Dutch Government Intervenes on Nexperia, Rewriting Europe's Geoeconomic Playbook

Europe's Financial Independence Needs Derisking, Not Decoupling

How Decision-Makers Can Prepare for Fundamental Uncertainty in Today's World

Companies in the S&P 500 are increasingly disclosing AI-related risks. Find out what this means for C-Suite leaders and boards.

More than 70% of the S&P 500 disclosed material AI risks in 2025, up from only 12% in 2023. What are the biggest AI-related risks for these companies, and how can they integrate AI into governance and risk frameworks?

Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, principal researcher at the Governance & Sustainability Center of The Conference Board, to discover why AI disclosures have soared since 2023, the challenges of divergent regulations in the EU and US, and why AI further complicates cybersecurity.

For more from The Conference Board:

AI Risk Disclosures in the S&P 500: Reputation, Cybersecurity, and Regulation

How Should Companies Approach Reputation Building in the AI Era?

A Coach for Every Worker: Scaling Access and Performance with AI

The modern workplace is being reshaped by a sweeping "whole-of-government" approach to policy, enforcement, and regulation. From diversity and inclusion to AI and immigration, the Administration's actions are influencing how both federal and private employers manage compliance, talent, and organizational risk.

In this episode, Steve Odland speaks with Camille Olson, partner at Seyfarth, about what this evolving landscape means for business leaders. They explore how executive orders, agency directives, and litigation trends are redefining the boundaries between public policy and corporate governance.

For more on this topic:

To H-1B or Not to H-1B: That Is the Policy Question

Is ICE Coming for Your Workers?

No, DEI Is Not Banned: A C-Suite Guide to Navigating the Legal Landscape in 2025

Workplace Governance Under the Trump Administration (Seyfarth)

Find out why a 1-2% increase in annual electricity demand could create stress to the US electrical grid.

US electricity demand has been largely flat for 20 years, thanks to efficiency gains. But with rising power demand from AI, electric vehicles, and other forms of electrification, how can the US grid keep up?

Join Steve Odland and guest Alex Heil, PhD, senior economist at the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center of The Conference Board, to find out the current pressures on power generation and distribution, what kinds of investment are required, and how higher power demand affects US businesses and consumers.

For more from The Conference Board:

Power Playbook: How US Businesses Can Prepare For Electricity Price Pressures

US Power Surge: How Businesses Can Prepare for Electricity Demand Spikes from AI

Plugged In or Power Outage? Corporate Risk in US Grid Capacity

What does the latest Consumer Confidence Index reveal about the economy's true pulse amid a prolonged government shutdown?

In this episode, host Dana M. Peterson, Chief Economist and Center Leader of the Economy, Strategy & Finance Center, talks with Stephanie Guichard, Senior Economist of Global Indicators, both of The Conference Board, about the latest Consumer Confidence Index results and the ongoing federal government shutdown.

They discuss how Americans are feeling about the economy, inflation, and the job market; early signs for the 2025 holiday shopping season; and what the shutdown means for growth, data, and consumers.

Topics covered:

Why consumer confidence is holding steady despite uncertainty

Shifts in inflation expectations and buying plans

Insights on holiday spending and tariff impacts

The shutdown's effects on data, jobs, and GDP

What to watch for as policymakers debate next steps

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Forecast for the US Economy

Global Economic Outlook

"This is a self-inflicted wound on our economy," says former Congressman Ron Klein.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Steve Odland, CEO of The Conference Board, sits down with Klein to unpack the ongoing US government shutdown: what it really means, who it affects, and how it might end. Together, they explore the technical mechanics behind a shutdown, the political dynamics fueling it, and the ripple effects across the economy and private sector.

Executives should monitor the shutdown's downstream effects on consumer confidence, supply chains, and federal partnerships. Klein underscores that resolution will come—but the longer the impasse, the broader the economic and social toll.

For more from The Conference Board:

US Consumer Confidence

Navigating Washington

In just a few decades, corporate sustainability has grown into a core corporate function, particularly at publicly traded companies. What is the state of corporate sustainability in 2025, and how will it evolve in the coming decade?

Join Steve Odland and guest Andrew Jones, principal researcher at The Conference Board's Governance & Sustainability Center, to find out what "corporate sustainability" means, why most companies are embracing a hybrid model, and where sustainability leaders see the function evolving next.

For more from The Conference Board:

Structuring Corporate Sustainability for Business Advantage

Sustainability Under Scrutiny: Corporate ESG in an Uncertain Policy Environment

Survey: 80% of Corporations Are Reworking ESG Strategies Amid Policy Shifts

Learn what the latest research on US shareholder activism can teach CEOs and boards.

Activism has evolved from a niche effort to a mainstream investment strategy, with campaigns in the US quadrupling since 2018. Learn how activists are targeting not only small-cap firms but increasingly large S&P 500 companies, using sophisticated communication strategies and exempt solicitations to influence boards.

Join Steve Odland and guest Matteo Tonello, Head of TCB Benchmarking and Analytics at The Conference Board, to find out what's behind the surge in activism campaigns, how companies are being targeted, the increasing scrutiny of CEOs (including gender bias), and how boards can prepare and respond effectively.

For more from The Conference Board:

2025 Proxy Season Review: From Escalation to Recalibration

TCB Benchmarking

2026 Executive Compensation Event

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Chief Economist Dana M. Peterson sits down with Associate Economist Allen Li to unpack the latest findings from The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence™ in collaboration with The Business Council. CEO confidence slipped slightly to 48 (down from 49), signaling cautious optimism among US business leaders amid ongoing tariff uncertainty and geopolitical risks.

Dana and Allen explore what's driving sentiment among Fortune 500 executives, from their views on the broader economy and their own industries to evolving workforce and investment plans. Despite a softer headline number, CEOs remain resilient — with many expecting only a mild slowdown, steady wages, and no imminent recession.

With official government data delayed due to the shutdown, this survey offers crucial real-time insights into how corporate leaders view the US economy, labor markets, and investment landscape heading into 2026.

For more on the Measure of CEO Confidence™, click through here.