Masters of Scale Rapid Response: What campus protests mean for business, w/Ken Frazier and Ken Chenault
May 21, 2024
Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck, advocates for health equity and social responsibility, while Ken Chenault, ex-CEO of American Express, champions diversity in business. They discuss how campus protests influence corporate leadership, urging CEOs to navigate societal tensions carefully. The duo emphasizes the vital role of DEI initiatives and the necessity of inclusive practices to reflect diverse perspectives. They also highlight the importance of civil discourse on contentious issues, particularly in today's polarized environment, advocating for courageous leadership amidst uncertainty.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
CEO Silence
- CEOs are becoming increasingly hesitant to speak out on social issues.
- This stems from witnessing other companies face backlash for public stances.
Prepare to Speak Up
- CEOs should determine their core principles and be prepared to defend them.
- They must decide under what circumstances they would speak out, especially if democracy is threatened.
DEI Controversy
- Terms like "DEI" are becoming controversial, hindering business operations.
- These terms operate within business, not politics, impacting opportunity and inclusion.