When we talk about “investing in the future,” it’s easy to think about hot-button topics like technology, infrastructure or renewable energy. These are undeniably important to Arizona’s growth and long-term sustainability. But there’s another critical investment that doesn’t always make the headlines and yet is just as essential for the health of our economy and communities: … [More]
The Business Case for Investing in Under-Resourced Youth
Challenges aren’t just social concerns but are also economic ones
How Minority-Owned Businesses Can Counter Funding Barriers
Capitalizing on alternative collateral
Minority-owned businesses generate nearly $2 trillion annually in the U.S., yet consistently face disproportionate barriers to funding. Despite growing entrepreneurial momentum, these businesses receive less than 2% of venture capital and face systemic exclusion from traditional financing. This gap is not just a matter of inequality — it’s a multibillion-dollar market … [More]
From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Advancing Arizona’s Innovation Economy
Companies across diverse industries face remarkably similar challenges
Recent economic uncertainties create headwinds for Arizona businesses, yet our state continues to strengthen its position as a growing technology hub. Phoenix recently hosted SEMICON West 2025, ASU and Applied Materials just opened a shared world-class $270-million research and development facility, and TSMC's $100-billion investment attracts supplier companies daily. These … [More]
Import Tariffs: The Hidden Costs of Staying Competitive
In Arizona, where population growth and record-breaking demand are stretching the power grid, the push for new solar and energy infrastructure is as strong as it has ever been. Every project we deliver connects to a system that needs more capacity and more resilience. Yet, the pace at which we can build is increasingly shaped by a factor that feels far removed from substations … [More]
5 Common Mistakes That Can Create a Crisis – and Make It Worse
Insights from the author of The Crisis Casebook: Lessons in Crisis Management from the World’s Leading Brands
The crisis management hall of fame is filled with companies and high-profile individuals who were responsible for creating disasters, scandals or other emergencies. There are also those who, when their organizations were the victims of a crisis, made matters worse by what they did or said — or failed to do and say. After analyzing hundreds of different crisis situations, … [More]
Your Reputation Is Your Résumé – Guard It Well
Deeper than brand, it starts with integrity
We’ve all heard the saying, “Your reputation precedes you.” In today’s hyper-connected world, that’s not just a phrase, it’s a reality. Before you enter a room, pitch a client or apply for an opportunity, chances are someone has already looked you up. They’ve scanned your LinkedIn, read what others have said, maybe even formed an opinion based on a single post or interaction. … [More]
How Employers Are Shaping Sustainable Compensation Strategies in 2025
Shifting focus to long-term workforce development
After years of pressure on compensation programs due to a highly competitive labor market, changing employee priorities and rising inflation and cost of living, most employers are experiencing relief. Employers are now shifting the focus to build strong and actionable foundational compensation programs as we navigate new economic uncertainty. When discussing the 2025 SHRM … [More]
The ‘Why’ & ‘How To’ of Gratitude at Work
It can be simple, but the benefit is grand – and it benefits all
Business owners will routinely claim that employee retention is one of their ongoing challenges. I disagree. It’s employee defection that causes migraines! For businesses that don’t have the capacity to offer significant annual raises and/or year-end bonuses, one way to build morale and engender loyalty is by showing deep gratitude to the staff. This can be accomplished … [More]
Are Cultural Divides Growing at Work? And Why Does It Matter?
Leapsome’s latest report reveals trends impacting company culture and challenging HR leaders
A recently released report from Leapsome, the AI-powered people platform for HR excellence, spotlights the growing pressure on People teams to juggle top-down mandates, widening cultural divides and the rapid rise of AI — all while being tasked with driving productivity and influencing key business decisions. From economic pressure to political polarization and AI … [More]
Four Reasons Why Investing in Your People Managers Is Paramount
Recognize their role as distinct and valued
People managers are the cornerstone of any successful organization, serving as the link that actively and agilely balances the changing needs of the people and the business. Here are four reasons why investing in their development is one of the most significant strategic moves a business leader can make. 1. A Key Influence on Employee Mental Health and Well-Being … [More]
A Multigenerational Workforce Needs a Multipronged Approach to Benefits
One size doesn’t fit all
The cultural climate of the workforce has undergone some significant changes in recent years, and businesses need to be able to think on their feet regarding how they adapt. With Gen Z now making up a greater portion of the workforce, alongside an aging population that’s choosing to work past the age of 65, businesses are face to face with a truly multigenerational workplace. … [More]
What I’ve Learned from Women Who Lead Outside the Lines
Radical potential to advance resilience, authenticity and connection
Reflecting on my leadership journey, one of the most transformative experiences has been working alongside incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women. These women have challenged my views of resilience, strength and what it means to lead. Decades of research on women in leadership confirm what I’ve seen firsthand: When women lead, organizations become stronger, more … [More]
Future-Proofing Your Culture: Adapting to the generational shift in 2025 and beyond
For years technology companies have struggled with maintaining their culture as they grow and scale, but today’s challenge is even tricker because of the generational shift underway that is complicating matters. The sheer number of technology companies starting up each day is massive, and competition for top talent has intensified as predicted over the last 10 years. With … [More]
Dear Leaders: A Candid Note on Performative Empathy
And the value authentic commitment
In a recent Washington Post article, George F. Will wrote about the supposed downfall of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) and DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) in corporate America. While I disagree with Will’s stance that ESG and DEI are bad for business, what struck me most was the lack of empathy in his message. It almost felt like he was celebrating this … [More]
It’s All in Your Mind … Set
How to Foster a Growth Mindset
You start by opening your mind to different circumstances, different inputs, different ways forward, different people around you, and different feedback based on your newfound mindset. Soon enough you’ll find yourself more open and curious, with a newfound ability to feel empathy, see problems in a new light, see new opportunities, pay attention to unforeseen … [More]
Innovative Bars Are Revolutionizing Dining Experiences
Trending: immersive, experiential dining
In an era when dining out is as much about the experience as the food, innovative bars are stepping up to deliver unforgettable moments. Consumers have a lasting shift toward an experiential mindset and, while they may not be spending less, they are becoming more intentional about their spending. In fact, according to recent research, 72% of diners want more experiential dining … [More]
How to Align Business Success with Sustainable Development Goals
Prioritizing sustainability in the investment and lending industry leads to long-term success
SDGs, or Sustainable Development Goals, are universal guidelines established by the UN that call on organizations to participate in a collaborative effort to address social, economic and environmental issues. Prioritizing SDGs creates socially responsible businesses and enables leaders to identify growth opportunities. When implementing SDGs, business leaders should choose … [More]
The Future Workforce: Revolutionizing Skill Development with AI
Forecasting needs and potential skill gaps
The fast pace of AI/ML evolution and other domains has created a new revolution across industries, which has never been seen before. The shift is not only showing up in how we work, but it is also forcing employees and companies to ask deep, profound questions. As the future of work becomes increasingly uncertain, individuals are confronted with a pivotal quandary: "Will the … [More]
