Masters of Scale

Rapid Response: What campus protests mean for business, w/Ken Frazier and Ken Chenault

May 21, 2024

30:25

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Former CEOs Ken Frazier and Ken Chenault discuss business leaders' role in addressing societal issues like DEI and campus protests. They highlight the importance of speaking out, supporting democratic principles, and fostering healthy dialogue. The conversation explores challenges in communication, controversies surrounding Israel and Palestine, and the need for courage and humility in leadership roles.

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Quick takeaways

CEOs must be prepared to take a stand on societal issues despite potential backlash.

Promoting diversity and inclusive practices in business is essential for fostering a fair and engaging work environment.

Deep dives

CEOs and Speaking Out on Social Issues

Ken Chanal and Ken Frazier discuss the changing landscape where CEOs are hesitant to speak out due to potential backlash. They emphasize the importance of understanding societal divides, supporting democracy, and being prepared to take a stand when necessary. CEOs are urged to consider under what circumstances they should voice their opinions and engage in meaningful discourse.

Introduction

3min

CEOs' Responsibility in a Divided Society

18min

Navigating Controversies and Campus Unrest for Business Leaders

3min

Navigating Societal Challenges on College Campuses

6min

Exploring Courage and Humility in Leadership with Insights from Ken and Ken

3min

Amid college campus protests over Palestine and Israel, stark US political divides, and legal challenges to diversity initiatives, business leaders face new pressure on whether to speak out and take action on issues of our time. Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck, and Ken Chenault, former CEO of American Express, offer their unfiltered advice, as board members of the Harvard Corporation and two of America’s most prominent Black executives. It’s a candid conversation about the most controversial topics in American business, from DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) to January 6th.

The pair collaborate at the venture capital firm, General Catalyst. Ken Chenault is the Chairman and a Managing Director, while Ken Frazier is the firm’s Chairman of Health Assurance initiatives.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QctAB_DGAIM

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