Inside the Strategy Room 254. John Stankey, AT&T’s CEO and Chairman of the Board, on embracing long-term vision
11 snips
Jun 5, 2025 John Stankey, AT&T’s CEO and Chairman, discusses his 40-year journey at the company. He emphasizes the importance of long-term vision amid economic uncertainty and highlights the strategic shift to fiber infrastructure for future digital needs. Stankey also explores how artificial intelligence is transforming business efficiency and customer experience. Additionally, he shares insights on navigating leadership challenges during the pandemic, stressing clear communication and the legacy of excellence in corporate culture.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Navigating Economic Policy Shifts
- Economic policy shifts always impact businesses but are part of a broader timeline.
- Companies must adapt by making controlled, sustainable bets and over-communicating optimism to employees.
Fiber as Digital Infrastructure
- John Stankey compares AT&T's fiber investment to historic infrastructure projects like the Transcontinental Railway and interstate highways.
- He views fiber as the essential digital-age infrastructure supporting AI and high-performance networking demands.
AI Transforming Business Models
- AI will transform business faster than the internet did.
- Businesses must redesign organizations leveraging AI to overcome human capacity limits and unlock strategic advantages.