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
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.
6 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 22min
Compliance risks: The board perspective
Kristy Grant-Hart, Vice President at Spark Compliance and former FCPA defense attorney, shares her expertise on critical compliance risks today. She dives into alarming issues like modern slavery and the ever-complex landscape of AI regulations. Kristy emphasizes the need for comprehensive training to curb bribery and corruption, especially in supply chains. Additionally, she advocates for the often-overlooked role of Chief Compliance Officers in board meetings, highlighting their value in risk management and strategic communication.
Mar 19, 2025 • 25min
Tips and trends shaping the 2025 proxy season
In this episode of The Corporate Director Podcast, we’re joined by Doug Schnell and Sebastian Alsheimer, partners at Wilson Sonsini. The conversation centers around shareholder engagement trends and the evolving landscape of shareholder activism as we approach the 2025 proxy season. The guests share their insights on how the new U.S. presidential administration's stance on DEI and ESG might impact corporate governance. They also provide practical advice for directors and corporate leaders on navigating the ESG/DEI backlash, protecting against shareholder activism, and fostering effective shareholder engagement. If you like this episode be sure to check out our guide on preparing your board for shareholder activism.
15 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 31min
Re-centering strategy in the boardroom: Tips from an experienced director
Ana Dutra, a former CEO and Fortune 250 executive with extensive board experience, shares invaluable insights on corporate governance and strategy. She emphasizes the significance of aligning CEO succession planning with strategic missions. Ana discusses the critical need for boards to engage in long-term discussions and tackle the challenges of geopolitical risks. She also highlights the role of generative AI in shaping modern business strategies, urging board members to adapt and educate themselves continuously.
Feb 19, 2025 • 36min
150th episode special: The future of governance
In this special 150th edition of The Corporate Director Podcast, hosts Dottie Schindlinger and Meghan Day are joined by Diligent's CEO & President Brian Stafford and Annalisa Barrett, Senior Advisor at KPMG’s Board Leadership Center. The episode reflects on key developments over the past decade in corporate governance, discusses the growing importance of CEO succession planning, and explores the transformative potential of AI in governance and risk management.
18 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 27min
What’s on the board agenda in 2025?
Melanie Nolen, Head of Research at Chief Executive Group, leads intriguing discussions on the priorities for corporate boards heading into 2025. She highlights the surge in focus on growth opportunities and the critical need for improved CEO succession planning. The conversation also touches on how boards are adapting strategies in response to disruptions, such as cybersecurity threats and the evolving landscape of innovation. Insights from the Director Confidence Index reveal shifting sentiments among corporate directors that could shape governance policies.
Jan 22, 2025 • 35min
Future-proofing your cybersecurity strategy
In this episode of The Corporate Director Podcast, we welcome Timothy Youngblood, Chief Information Security Officer at Astrix Security. Timothy shares his insights on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and its implications for corporate governance. He delves into the lessons learned from cyber events in 2024, the significant threats organizations should prepare for in 2025, and the shift from reactive to proactive cyber risk management. Additionally, Timothy discusses the impact of AI on cybersecurity, potential regulatory changes, and strategies for boards to future-proof their approach to cyber risk management.
