The Corporate Director Podcast
Diligent
On The Corporate Director Podcast, we discuss the experiences and ideas behind what's working in corporate board governance in out digital-tech-fuled world. You'll hear interviews with corporate leaders who have compelling stories to share, governance researchers with new insights, and conversations with "governance geeks" who are passionate about finding the best ideas out there to help board directors do their work better. Episodes will feature topics such as: corporate governance, strategy, board culture, risk management, ESG, secure communication, digital transformation through boardroom technology, board meeting management, director recruiting and succession planning, board refreshment, boardroom meeting minutes and other good governance best practices.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 6, 2025 • 31min
AI leadership strategies for a changing world
Beena Ammanath, Global Head of Deloitte's AI Institute and author of 'Trustworthy AI,' shares her expertise on responsible AI adoption. She emphasizes the critical need for AI literacy among leaders and discusses decision-making frameworks essential for navigating AI's impact on the workforce. Beena advocates for redefining job roles and continuous learning to harness emerging talent effectively. She also addresses societal concerns regarding AI's influence on jobs while highlighting opportunities that arise from its integration into daily life.
13 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 35min
Cybersecurity in the age of AI
Nick Shevelyov, founding partner at VCSO AI and cybersecurity thought leader, delves into the complex world of cybersecurity amidst the rise of AI. He highlights how generative AI empowers both attackers and defenders, emphasizing the threat of sophisticated spear phishing and deep fakes. Effective defense strategies are key, requiring companies to balance AI investment with strong cyber hygiene. Shevelyov also discusses the pressing need for board-level awareness of AI's implications to enhance organizational resilience against evolving threats.
Jul 9, 2025 • 33min
Inside Wall Street Journal's Top 250 Directors List
Alan Murray, founding president of the Wall Street Journal's Leadership Institute, dives into the Top 250 Board Directors List. He discusses the evolving criteria for great directors and how the business landscape is altering leadership qualities, especially post-pandemic and with AI's rise. Murray touches on the increasing accountability due to new shareholder dynamics and critiques the misconceptions surrounding effective board membership. He emphasizes the need for diversity, sound judgment, and empathy in navigating the complexities directors face today.
Jul 3, 2025 • 43min
Understanding the PCAOB
In this episode, hosts Dottie Schindlinger and Meghan Day delve into the creation and legacy of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) with insights from notable guests. Mike Levy discusses the implications of a congressional bill which proposed to eliminate the PCAOB and transfer its responsibilities to the SEC. Sherron Watkins and Cynthia Cooper, known for exposing the Enron and WorldCom frauds respectively, share their perspectives on the importance of maintaining strong audit oversight and the potential consequences of dismantling the PCAOB and similar audit oversight bodies.
12 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 28min
C-suite views on board performance
Arielle Berlin, Director at PwC's Governance Insights Center, dives into pivotal survey findings on board effectiveness. She reveals how C-suite members and board members have differing views on collaboration. Arielle discusses the growing demand for directors skilled in AI and sustainability, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence in leadership. The conversation also explores how boards can implement proactive governance strategies amidst today's unpredictable landscape, highlighting the importance of resilience and effective communication in boardroom dynamics.
6 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 29min
Empowering female corporate leaders
Alicia Syrett, Founder of Madam Chair, leads a vibrant network of female chairs and directors of public companies. In this discussion, she shares her inspiring journey from finance to board leadership and the creation of a powerful support system for women in corporate governance. Key topics include the rising demand for diversity in leadership, reevaluating mandatory board member retirement ages, and the critical role of peer support in empowering female leaders. Alicia also emphasizes the need for accountability and mentorship in fostering future corporate change.
19 snips
May 28, 2025 • 30min
Uncertainty and the board: Strategies for turbulent times
Brian Kushner, Senior Managing Director at FTI Consulting, dives into the daunting challenges corporate boards face today. He highlights a concerning confidence gap between CEOs and directors, stressing the need for improved communication to reduce executive turnover. Kushner discusses evolving governance roles, especially concerning human capital and environmental issues. With insights on leveraging AI for decision-making and strategies to engage with activist investors, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration and adaptability in uncertain times.
May 14, 2025 • 26min
CEO safety and the role of the board
In this episode of The Corporate Director Podcast, we sit down with Mike Meyer, Principal at Meridian Compensation Partners. He discusses the growing importance of CEO security. The conversation delves into recent incidents, the factors that make certain companies more vulnerable, and the steps boards can take to enhance CEO security. It also explores the integration of security measures into compensation packages, the associated costs, and the evolving role of the board.
13 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 27min
AI status report from the boardroom
In this episode of The Corporate Director Podcast, we sit down with Claudia Allen, Senior Advisor at KPMG’s Board Leadership Center. The conversation delves into survey findings that highlight the current state of AI adoption at organizations and key concerns for directors. Claudia offers valuable advice on staying informed about AI and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. If you’re looking to learn more about how to navigate AI adoption at your organization, read more here.
Apr 16, 2025 • 30min
How to make investor relations a competitive advantage
Kevin Roy, Managing Director at S&P Global, explores how to leverage investor relations for a competitive edge. He discusses the evolving role of IR post-pandemic and its impact on company valuations. Key topics include the importance of credibility and responsiveness in building trust, along with the increasing relevance of ESG and AI in shaping investor strategies. Kevin also addresses the cautious approach in today’s IPO market and how strategic messaging is essential for effective communication between management and investors.
