C-Suite Perspectives

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:
US Consumer Confidence
Forecast for the US Economy
Global Economic Outlook