Podcasts about The Business Council

Imagine a world where rural and tropical regions aren't struggling backwaters, but breeding ground for fresh ideas, new jobs and sustainable growth. According to OECD's Rural Innovation Pathways, rural innovation isn't just a smaller copy of what happens in cities, it's different: rooted in community‑led projects, adaptive agriculture, renewable energy, social enterprises and creative responses to local needs. https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/rural-innovation-pathways_c86de0f4-en.html The “tropical economy” vision isn't pie‑in‑the‑sky, it fits squarely within OECD's roadmap for leveraging natural capital, innovation and place‑based assets to build resilient, inclusive, future‑oriented rural economies. In today's episode of our #FromtheGroundUp series, Betty-Ann Bryce (OECD) sits down with Ingo Plöger (CEAL), for a conversation to explore how tropical regions, with abundant natural resources, rich biodiversity and favourable climate, can become engines of sustainable growth, innovation and resilient rural development. Have a listen and find out what in the world is the Tropical Economy! Ingo Plöger is a Brazilian-German engineer, entrepreneur and business leader deeply engaged in strengthening ties between Brazil, Europe and Latin America. He is currently the International President of The Business Council of Latin America (CEAL). He holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technische Universität Darmstadt (Germany) and a postgraduate degree in Economic and Labor Sciences from the Technische Universität München. Over his career he served as Executive President of the historic São Paulo firm Cia. Melhoramentos and today is founder and president of the consultancy firm IPDES, which supports institutional, corporate and cross-border business development. He participates in the boards of several major national and multinational companies and holds advisory roles with organisations like Robert Bosch GmbH among others. As of January 2026, he will assume the presidency of ABAG, the main agribusiness association in Brazil, reinforcing his commitment to sustainable, competitive and globally connected agriculture and agro-industry. **** To learn more, visit OECD Latin American Rural Development Conference https://www.oecd.org/en/events/2025/11/oecd-latin-american-rural-development-conference.html and the OECD's work on Rural Development https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/policy-issues/rural-development.html. Find out more on these topics by reading Reinforcing Rural Resilience https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/reinforcing-rural-resilience_7cd485e3-en.html and Rural Innovation Pathways https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/rural-innovation-pathways_c86de0f4-en.html. To learn more about the OECD, our global reach, and how to join us, go to https://www.oecd.org/en/about.html To keep up with latest at the OECD, visit https://www.oecd.org/ Get the latest OECD content delivered directly to your inbox! Subscribe to our newsletters: https://www.oecd.org/en/about/newsletters

In this week's segment from Mehdi Unfiltered, Mehdi is joined by Goldy Hyder, the president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada, to break down the impact of Trump 2.0 on Canada-US relations.SUBSCRIBE TO ZETEO TO SUPPORT INDEPENDENT AND UNFILTERED JOURNALISM: https://zeteo.com/subscribeWATCH ‘MEHDI UNFILTERED' ON SUBSTACK: https://zeteo.com/s/mehdi-unfilteredFIND ZETEO:Twitter: https://twitter.com/zeteo_newsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeteonewsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zeteonewsFIND MEHDI:Substack: https://substack.com/@mehdirhasanTwitter: https://twitter.com/@mehdirhasanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/@mehdirhasanTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mehdirhasanThis video is being shared without a paywall. If you believe in the work we do and want to see more of it, do consider becoming a paid subscriber. And if you're not ready for the commitment, then a donation would still go a long way. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit zeteo.com/subscribe

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan, Former Vice President for Editorial Development at the New York Press Association Judy Patrick, and Former Times Union Associate Editor Mike Spain.

Donald Trump says he could let the Canada-US-Mexico trade deal expire -- but our guest, the president of the Business Council of Canada, argues the agreement is crucial to American and Canadian prosperity. A new trove of thousands of photos shows the horrors of detention under the regime of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad. British Columbia makes a move to seize three properties from the group it says is using them for crime -- that group being the Hell's Angels. Even if you don't know his name, you know his songs -- a fellow Stax Records musician tells us about the legendary guitarist and songwriter Steve Cropper. An Arizona lineman confronts a bear that has climbed a power pole and cannot, or will not, get down -- and discovers the most effective way to convince it is by prodding it with a stick. If you've ever been told you sound like a "dying walrus" when you thought you were outdoing Celine, Sharon Marnell wants you in her musical group. It's called the Tuneless Choir. As It Happens, the Thursday edition. Radio that believes everyone deserves some tenor loving care.

Free For All Friday - Hour 1 Amanda Galbraith breaks down the biggest stories of the day with Canada's top newsmakers. On today's show: The FIFA World Cup Draw is unfolding right as we hit the airwaves! But as the biggest worldwide faces gather in Washington, it's not all about soccer. Bob Richardson, a public affairs consultant, unveils the bigger picture at play. What’s at stake for Canada in the ongoing CUSMA review? We dig deeper with Goldy Hyder, the President and CEO for the Business Council of Canada. Tech analyst Carmi Levy reacts to Australia's U16 social media ban, and explains why 2025 is the year of 'Gen Beta'. Free For All Friday - Hour 2 Contributors from all over the country join The Roundtable to discuss the top stories of the week. Today's edition features Texture Communications president Melanie Paradis and CTV News political analyst Scott Reid. Topic 1: The CUSMA review is officially underway, as preliminary public hearings kick off in Washington. Topic 2: Is the 'pay to play' economy coming back to bite Canada's rear-end? Topic 3: How does the panacea of climate change factor into the present-day Canadian political equation? Topic 4: Is co-hosting the FIFA World Cup a worthwhile endeavour for Canada? Topic 5: Based on your Spotify playlist, how old are you?

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Professor of Political Studies, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Bard College Jonathan Becker, Dean of the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity at the University at Albany Robert Griffin, Senior Fellow for Health Policy at The Empire Center for Public Policy Bill Hammond, and CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan.

BCA President Adam Legge is joined by Karen Brookman, President and CEO of WCD, for an inspiring conversation on C-Suite Unplugged. WCD has been part of Alberta's business landscape for more than 70 years. In this episode, Adam sits down with Karen Brookman to talk about the company's evolution, the values that have shaped its growth, and what it means to steward a multigenerational family business. Karen shares how she approached taking the helm at WCD and how she continues to build a culture rooted in innovation, service, and community. She also reflects on the mentors who guided her— including her father, George Brookman— and the lessons that inform her leadership today. This conversation offers a thoughtful, grounded look at leading a legacy company forward, supporting Alberta's community, and preparing for the opportunities ahead. --------------------- About the Business Council of Alberta The Business Council of Alberta was founded on a simple idea: to make life better for all Albertans. We believe that business has an important role in improving society, and that when business does well, we all do well. We work with the chief executives and leading entrepreneurs of Alberta's largest enterprises to understand the big, long-term challenges that Albertans are facing and work with industry, government, and civil society to solve these problems and build shared prosperity for every person who calls Alberta home. Check out more of our recent work: https://bit.ly/3JG9ifS Listen to BCA Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3bHlfFB Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/3BPxDhv Follow us on socials: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3QaetHE YouTube: https://bit.ly/3QswqAV X: https://bit.ly/3P7pgB0

The COP30 climate talks in Belem wrapped up over the weekend, and reactions to the outcome were sharply divided. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, said “climate cooperation is still alive…we're undeniably still in it and we are fighting back.” Others said the COP had been another failure, with a final statement that amounted to “a form of climate denial”.To make sense of what really happened at COP30, and where the talks leave the global effort on climate change, host Ed Crooks is joined by three regular Energy Gang contributors who have been following the negotiations closely. Amy Harder is the national energy correspondent at the news service Axios, Lisa Jacobson is the president of the Business Council for Sustainable Energy, and Simon Evans is deputy editor of the website Carbon Brief. Together they discuss the arguments over COP30's statement on fossil fuels, the rise of climate adaptation as a key priority, and hopes for increasing flows of capital to lower-income countries.A pledge to triple adaptation finance for developing countries by 2035 is attracting a lot of scrutiny. Lower-income countries are pushing for clear plans for delivery, not just vague aspirations. What could those plans look like? Another key issue is China's complicated role in the energy transition. It is leading the way in manufacturing and deploying low-carbon energy technologies. But it is still adding coal-fired generation capacity at a rapid pace. Does it make sense to see China as a climate leader?It is a complex picture. The world is still off track for the Paris Agreement's climate goals, even after the latest round of country pledges on emissions, known as Nationally Determined Contributions. But solar, wind and storage are still on declining cost trends, and are making significant progress in many countries.Finally, Ed speaks with Gianpiero Nacci, who's Managing Director for Climate Strategy and Delivery at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, for a focused discussion on climate finance. Gianpiero explains why multilateral development banks such as the EBRD are being asked to do more, what makes adaptation harder to fund than mitigation, and what the new COP30 to COP31 roadmap means for climate finance, as focus shifts to next year's meeting, which will be held in Turkey a year from now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Brief, guest host Adam Legge sits down with Jonathan Martin, Politics Bureau Chief and Senior Political Columnist with POLITICO, for a clear-eyed look at the forces shaping U.S. politics today and what they mean for Canada. Drawing on years of firsthand reporting from around Washington, D.C., and inside the Oval Office, Jonathan unpacks how President Donald Trump approaches decision-making, how the dynamics of modern politics have shifted in the age of social media, and what Canada should keep top of mind as it navigates this environment. He also offers a candid assessment of where Canada has leverage—from highlighting tangible, near-term wins that resonate with the president, to positioning our natural resources as indispensable to North American security, Jonathan outlines how Canada can engage with the Trump 2.0 administration in ways that actually move the needle. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About the Business Council of Alberta The Business Council of Alberta was founded on a simple idea: to make life better for all Albertans. We believe that business has an important role in improving society, and that when business does well, we all do well. We work with the chief executives and leading entrepreneurs of Alberta's largest enterprises to understand the big, long-term challenges that Albertans are facing and work with industry, government, and civil society to solve these problems and build shared prosperity for every person who calls Alberta home. Check out more of our recent work: https://bit.ly/3JG9ifS Listen to BCA Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3bHlfFB Subscribe to our monthly newsletter: https://bit.ly/3BPxDhv Follow us on socials: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3QaetHE YouTube: https://bit.ly/3QswqAV X: https://bit.ly/3P7pgB0 Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Qx6B2J

From immigrant roots to international leadership, Diana's story embodies curiosity, courage, and compassion. As Executive Director of the Canadian Business Council in Dubai, she connects cultures, empowers entrepreneurs, and builds lasting bridges between Canada and the Middle East.00:09- About Diana Szyszka PompeiDiana Szyszka Pompei is the Executive Director of Canadian Business Council (CBC), Dubai.

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Professor Emeritus of Russian at Hofstra University and author of: Illiberal Vanguard: Populist Elitism in the United States and Russia Alexander Mihailovic, CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan, Siena University Professor of Economics Aaron Pacitti, and economics majors from Siena University -- Micah Moore, Andrew Kirk, and Kylie Castellana.

We'll take you live to B.C. Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon making an announcement in Victoria on interprovincial trade. It follows the federal government's announcement that the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act will come into effect on Jan. 1. Questions also remain about B.C. and Alberta's pipeline disagreements. Laura Jones, president and CEO of the Business Council of B.C., joins the show as we ask viewers what they make of B.C.'s efforts to do business with other provinces and if pivoting to interprovincial trade is enough to fight the impacts of U.S. tariffs.

Jessica Biga-Wadstein, Canada country head for Pearson, Theo Argitis, senior vice president of policy at the Business Council of Canada, and Gabe Miller, president and CEO of Universities Canada, discuss Canada's growing skills gap and how to better connect our education system to the needs of a fast-changing economy. They share practical ideas for bridging that gap through work-integrated learning, micro-credentials, lifelong learning, and stronger partnerships between educators and employers.   This episode is presented in partnership with Pearson.   The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet.   Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go:  https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify)  Want more Hub? Get a FREE 3-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en   CREDITS: Producer & Editor - Elia Gross Sean Speer - Host   To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts email support@thehub.ca.

COP30, which began this week in Belém, Brazil, marks a decade since the Paris Agreement was adopted at COP21 in 2015. It's being billed as the “implementation COP”: instead of grand new announcements of international agreements, governments are supposed to be focused on delivering on the commitments they have already made. Host Ed Crooks and regular guest Amy Myers Jaffe welcome back Amy Harder, National Energy Correspondent at Axios. She says not every COP is created equally, and “this is definitely one of those COPs that are more of an ebb than a flow.”But that said, it doesn't mean COP30 will inevitably be unproductive. Amy Myers Jaffe, who is the Director of NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab, argues that COP30 “could wind up over time being seen as a more successful meeting than people are currently thinking it will be.”Instead of a new comprehensive global framework, the objectives for this year's talks will be a series of smaller-scale sectoral initiatives: scaling sustainable fuels, tackling industrial emissions, protecting forests, and aligning private capital with policy goals. The Energy Gang also welcomes to the show for the first time Lisa Jacobson, who is President of the Business Council for Sustainable Energy. She joins the show from Brazil to give the boots on the ground view as the conference begins. Previous COPs have generally put the mosh emphasis on government action. Lisa says that a focus on what's good for business might be a better way to spur change. Clean energy technologies are winning in many markets around the world because they make commercial sense. Policy can be helpful, but is it ultimately the business case that has to be what pushes the energy transition forward? Ed, Amy, Amy and Lisa debate the changes to US energy and climate policy, China's emissions trajectory, the global impact of EU measures, and how much of the clean energy build-out is now driven by economics rather than politics. And they wonder whether there is a central paradox in global climate policy. If the future of energy will be decided by market forces and national interests, not by anything that happens at COP30, is that a sign that the series of past COPs has been a success? We've got more coverage of COP30 coming soon, so make sure you're following us for all the key news and insight from Brazil. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Business Council of Australia CEO, Bran Black, joined Tom Elliott.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Businesses are being encouraged to plan ahead as talks of an India-New Zealand trade deal continue. Prime Minister Chris Luxon says both regions are making progress on a new trade agreement, as Trade Minister Todd McClay holds talks with his Indian counterpart. India New Zealand Business Council chair Edwin Paul says discussions indicate it's likely we'll get an FTA by early 2026. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget week on Parliament Hill quickly became a stunning political drama after Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre lost two of his MPs in quick succession. One has crossed the floor to join the Liberals and the other says he'll resign as an MP in the spring. How bad is this for the Official Opposition, and where does Poilievre go from here? Conservative strategist Kate Harrison and Liberal strategist Marci Surkes discuss the impact on Poilievre's leadership, the mood in caucus and whether more departures could follow.Plus, Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer responds to the caucus commotion and lays out his party's criticism of the budget; and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defends his government's financial plan.And: Business Council of Canada president Goldy Hyder joins Armine Yalnizyan, Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers in a debate over whether this budget can spur investment and growth without making cost-of-living concerns worse; and Sahir Khan, co-founder and VP of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy helps tally up a budget scorecard on how the document has landed as a win or loss for Canadians.This episode features the voices of:Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist and vice chair at Summa StrategiesMarci Surkes, former senior advisor to Justin Trudeau and chief strategy officer at Compass RoseSahir Khan, co-founder of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and DemocracyFrançois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of FinanceAndrew Scheer, Conservative House leaderGoldy Hyder, president of the Business Council of CanadaArmine Yalnizyan, Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are senior fellow and faculty member in the Center for the Advancement of Public Action at Bennington College, President of Beyond Plastics, former EPA Regional Administrator, and co-author of the book "The Problem with Plastic" Judith Enck, CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan, Siena University Professor of Economics Aaron Pacitti, and Economics majors from Siena University: Josh Florence, Kerry Ann Wise, and Giovanna Perez.

Speaker: Professor Bhamati Viswanathan, Visitor, Cambridge Law Faculty and Fellow at the Kernochan Center for Law, Media and the Arts at Columbia Law School Biography: Bhamati Viswanathan is a Senior Visitor at the University of Cambridge Faculty of Law and a Fellow (Non-Resident) at the Kernochan Center for Law, Media and the Arts at Columbia Law School (New York). Prior to joining the Cambridge Faculty of Law, she was Assistant Professor at New England Law | Boston, where she taught copyright law, artificial intelligence and the law, law and the visual arts, intellectual property law, and U.S. Constitutional law. She is the author of “Cultivating Copyright: How Creative Industries Can Harness Intellectual Property to Survive the Digital Age” (Routledge/Taylor & Francis Press). She currently holds an Edison Fellowship from the Intellectual Property Policy Institute at University of Akron Law School, under whose aegis she is writing a series of articles on the disparate impact of copyright law on women creators and women-centric work. She is also planning a book on the nexus of intellectual property and arts/culture in the age of artificial intelligence.Bhamati serves as Chair of the American Bar Association Intellectual Property Section: Visual and Dramatics Works Committee. She is a Faculty Advisor on the Copyright Alliance Academic Advisory Board. She serves as Faculty Partner to the News/Media Alliance. She is Education Advisor to the Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA)/ Massachusetts Arts and Business Council. She is also a Faculty Advisor to the Journal of the Copyright Society; and she was a Trustee of the Copyright Society, as well as Chair of its New England Chapter. She holds an S.J.D./LL.M. from University of Pennsylvania Law School; a J.D. from University of Michigan Law School; and a B.A. from Williams College. She is a competitive figure skater, violinist, and published poet/translator and lives in Boston.Abstract: The training of generativeAI models on ingested work is a hotly contested area of U.S. copyright law. In this Seminar, I will inquire whether such training may constitute “fair use” under the nonexclusive four-factor test of the U.S. Copyright Act. Currently, courts are wrestling with the fair use defense in several major cases, including Thompson Reuters v. ROSS Intelligence; Bartz v. Anthropic; Kadrey v. Meta; and the consolidated litigation of In re: OpenAI.Another open question is whether AI outputs infringe copyright in other works. Here, plaintiffs must establish that AI outputs infringe their works by passing the threshold of the “substantial similarity” test. I will discuss the test in the context of AI litigation, and will suggest that the relatively novel “market dilution” theory, focusing on harm caused by stylistically similar outputs, might be applied to weigh against a fair use defense for GenAI training. I will also address whether the theory of “vicarious liability” might be fruitfully brought to bear against certain genAI companies. Lastly, I will ask what action Congress can, or should, take, with a view to striking a fair balance between meeting the needs of innovative technologies and securing the rights of creative industries and creators. As an example, I will raise a recent proposal (in which I was involved) that Congress explicitly prohibit GenAI training on materials derived from digital repositories of unlicensed materials (so-called “shadow libraries”).For more information (and to download slides) see: https://www.cipil.law.cam.ac.uk/seminars-and-events/cipil-seminars

Business Council of Australia hits out at the Albanese government as red tape and activist lawfare stifle investment and jobs growth. Plus, former police officer turned author and radio commentator Brandon Tatum joins the show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Senior fellow and faculty member in the Center for the Advancement of Public Action, President of Beyond Plastics, former EPA Regional Administrator, appointed by President Obama, and co-author of the book “The Problem with Plastic” (published by The New Press) Judith Enck, CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan, Siena University and Professor of Economics Aaron Pacitti. Siena University economics majors:Bradley FraserJake NassNatalie Zhu

Peace Through Business: Building Peace by Empowering Women Entrepreneurs In a world often torn by conflict, peace through business may sound like a lofty goal. Yet for nearly two decades, that's exactly what Dr. Terry Neese , Monica Smiley, and the Peace Through Business Program have been accomplishing—helping women in Afghanistan, Rwanda, and now Uganda rise as entrepreneurs, leaders, and community changemakers. In the final episode of my three-part Peace Through Business podcast series, I was joined by Monica Smiley, president and founder of the Enterprising Women Foundation and publisher and CEO of Enterprising Women magazine. Monica, a long-time champion of women entrepreneurs worldwide, shared the remarkable journey of Dr. Neese, the founder of Peace Through Business, and how the Enterprising Women Foundation has joined forces to carry that mission forward. A Vision Born from a Call to Action The story began nearly twenty years ago when First Lady Laura Bush called Terry Neese with a bold request: travel with her to Afghanistan to help empower women through entrepreneurship. Despite her husband's warnings about the risks, Terry packed her bags and boarded a plane. What she witnessed changed her life. Soon after, she founded the Peace Through Business Program under the IEEW banner—a leadership and entrepreneurship training initiative designed to equip women in post-conflict nations with the tools to rebuild their lives and their communities through business ownership. Terry was no stranger to pioneering women's initiatives. She had co-founded Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), served as a president of NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), and played a pivotal role in passing H.R. 5050, the landmark legislation often called the "Big Bang" of women's entrepreneurship by creating the National Women's Business Council, laying the groundwork for a network of Women's Business Centers across the nation, and changing archaic laws that kept women from getting credit in their own names. From her base in Oklahoma City, this native of Cookie Town, Oklahoma, went on to build a global movement rooted in one core belief: economic empowerment is the path to peace. From Afghanistan to Rwanda: Courage in Action What began as a training program for Afghan women quickly expanded. Within a year, Peace Through Business added Rwanda, a country rebuilding after the genocide that took more than 800,000 lives. "In Rwanda," Monica shared, "women literally held up the sky after the genocide." Many were left as heads of households and community leaders. With support from Peace Through Business, these women learned to create sustainable enterprises that fueled their country's recovery. Rwanda is now one of the few nations in the world where women hold a majority in Parliament, a testament to their determination and leadership. One unforgettable example is Chantal, a graduate of the program who turned a personal crisis into opportunity. After a car accident left her vehicle stranded abroad for repairs, she realized there were no local body shops. Determined to change that, she founded the first woman-owned auto repair business in Rwanda—and even created the National Garage Owners Association to help others follow her lead. When Monica presented Chantal with the Enterprising Woman of the Year Award, both women were moved to tears. "She had lost over 200 family members during the genocide," Monica recalled. "It was the only time I've ever broken down during a speech. The resilience of these women is indescribable." Adapting and Persevering Through Crisis The fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban in 2021 brought enormous challenges. The program's Afghan director, Manizha, happened to be in the U.S. when the country collapsed. She immediately called her team, instructing them to destroy records to protect participants from reprisal. In the days that followed, Peace Through Business helped over 300 graduates escape the country while continuing to support those who remained. Today, the Afghan program operates entirely online. The women meet virtually several times a week in a ten-week course covering business planning, marketing, finance, taxation, and leadership. Because many participants lack internet access, the program covers their connectivity costs. As Monica noted, "It's like a mini-MBA. The women are committed attendance is strict, there are assignments, tests, and business plans are developed." Graduates then join the Peace Through Business Alumni Association, where they mentor other women and "pay it forward." The results have been extraordinary: alumnae have launched new ventures, expanded into export markets, and even entered politics as ministers and policymakers. Watch our video on YouTube Here: A Call to Action: Women Helping Women Monica's message is clear—these programs depend on us. With cutbacks to international aid, nonprofit funding is tighter than ever, even as demand grows. "We had 124 Afghan women apply for 35 openings this year," she said. "The need is overwhelming." Every dollar and every mentor counts. Mentors are matched virtually with entrepreneurs to share expertise and encouragement. Donations go directly toward training, internet access, and modest stipends for local program directors like Manizha and Chantal, who continue to risk so much for others. Monica's organization, Enterprising Women Foundation, now hosts the Peace Through Business program, helping amplify its reach and celebrating its graduates at the annual Enterprising Women of the Year Awards. The partnership exemplifies how women lifting women can create ripple effects across continents—building stronger families, economies, and, ultimately, peace. Building Peace, One Business at a Time As I closed our conversation, I reflected on how deeply these women embody resilience and hope. Their stories remind us that peace is not simply the absence of conflict—it is the presence of opportunity. When women gain access to education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, they transform not only their own lives but the futures of entire communities. Programs like Peace Through Business show that empowering women economically is one of the most powerful peace strategies in the world. The program is now operating in Canada and the United Kingdom. It is mostly serving immigrant women entrepreneurs from around the globe who have moved to those countries and need the Peace Through Business training. The Program is becoming truly global. If you would like to support or mentor women through the Peace Through Business program, visit Enterprising Women Foundation at www.enterprisingwomenfoundation. Together, we can build peace—one woman, one business, and one community at a time. Connect with me: Website: www.simonassociates.net Email: info@simonassociates.net Books: Learn more about our books here: Rethink: Smashing the Myths of Women in Business Women Mean Business: Over 500 Insights from Extraordinary Leaders to Spark Your Success On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights Listen + Subscribe: Available wherever you get your podcasts—Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube, and more. If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share with someone navigating their own leadership journey. Reach out and contact us if you want to see how a little anthropology can help your business grow. Let's Talk!

U.S. President Donald Trump says he will terminate trade talks with Canada over an ad sponsored by the Ontario government that featured Ronald Reagan's 1987 radio address warning of the consequences of trade barriers. Now, B.C. Premier David Eby says B.C. will create its own ad targeting Trump's tariff policies. B.C. jobs minister Ravi Kahlon takes viewers' calls as he discusses the province's planned ads and its response to the latest setback in the trade war. Laura Jones, the CEO of the Business Council of B.C., joins the show to discuss whether or not Canada should fight back harder in response.

The Business Council of Westchester's Circles of Influence event, held on Monday, October 20th, 2025, at the Sonesta in White Plains, brought together more than 200 attendees for an evening of networking, introductions, and opportunity. This signature BCW event has grown over the past few years into one of Westchester's most recognized member acquisition programs, giving BCW members the chance to invite guests and showcase the many benefits of Council membership. The room was filled with professionals eager to connect, collaborate, and strengthen their business relationships. Westchester Talk Radio was on hand covering the evening, with host Joan Franzino sitting down for an interview with BCW member Geri Pell, co-founder of Rise Private Wealth Management, who attended with Dana Horowitz of the UJA Federation NY.

The Business Council of Westchester's Circles of Influence event, held on Monday, October 20th, 2025, at the Sonesta in White Plains, was a dynamic evening of networking, introductions, and relationship building. Designed to help BCW members showcase the benefits of membership to their invited guests, this signature event has evolved into one of Westchester's premier member acquisition programs, drawing an impressive crowd of over 200 attendees. The room buzzed with energy as professionals from across the region connected and shared ideas. Westchester Talk Radio was on-site capturing the excitement, with host Joan Franzino interviewing BCW members Barbara Selesky, Director of Services, and Julia Moreland, Family Service Associate, of Woodlawn Cemetery, about their experience and involvement with the Council.

The Business Council of Westchester's Circles of Influence, held Monday, October 20, 2025 at the Sonesta in White Plains, drew an energetic crowd of over 200 business leaders and guests eager to connect. Designed so BCW members can bring guests and personally introduce them to the many benefits of Council membership, this signature event has expanded in recent years into a well-known Westchester member-acquisition program. The evening was filled with networking and meaningful conversation as members reconnected and welcomed newcomers. Westchester Talk Radio covered the event, with host Joan Franzino sitting down with BCW member Maggie Carey, Founder of Master It Media, who attended with Lorraine Santoli, author and PR/marketing consultant.

 Jennifer Wong is the CEO of Aritzia. She began her tenure at Aritzia in 1987 as a part-time style advisor, advancing her way through retail leadership roles to serve as president, COO, and chair of the executive committee for seven years. She was elected to the board of directors in 2016 and appointed CEO in May 2022. She has led virtually every facet of Aritzia's business: building critical infrastructure across people, process, technology and space, and pioneering key strategic growth initiatives—including the expansion of distribution facilities, enterprise technology implementations, the launch of the e-commerce business and the initial US expansion. A visionary and results-driven leader, Jennifer has been recognized as one of Canada's Top 40 Under 40, a Glossy 50 honoree in 2023, an inductee into the Business of Fashion 500 Class of 2024, and a recipient of Ascend Canada's 2025 Executive of the Year Award. She is also a member of the Business Council of Canada. She earned a BA in Economics from the University of British Columbia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of C-Suite Perspectives, Chief Economist Dana M. Peterson sits down with Associate Economist Allen Li to unpack the latest findings from The Conference Board Measure of CEO Confidence™ in collaboration with The Business Council. CEO confidence slipped slightly to 48 (down from 49), signaling cautious optimism among US business leaders amid ongoing tariff uncertainty and geopolitical risks.    Dana and Allen explore what's driving sentiment among Fortune 500 executives, from their views on the broader economy and their own industries to evolving workforce and investment plans. Despite a softer headline number, CEOs remain resilient — with many expecting only a mild slowdown, steady wages, and no imminent recession.    With official government data delayed due to the shutdown, this survey offers crucial real-time insights into how corporate leaders view the US economy, labor markets, and investment landscape heading into 2026.    For more on the Measure of CEO Confidence™, click through here. 

The Business Council of Westchester's Annual Fall Fete took place on Wednesday, October 8th, at the beautiful Harrison Meadows Country Club in Harrison, New York. This highly anticipated event brought BCW members together for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration. Guests enjoyed the perfect fall setting while networking with business and community leaders from across the region. The Fall Fete provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen professional relationships, forge new partnerships, and share ideas in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Westchester Talk Radio was on-site, with host Joan Franzino speaking with Brian MacConnell, owner of Hudson Infosys, sharing insights on technology, business growth, and community engagement. 

 The Business Council of Westchester's Annual Fall Fete took place on Wednesday, October 8th, at the beautiful Harrison Meadows Country Club in Harrison, New York. This highly anticipated event brought BCW members together for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration.  Guests enjoyed the perfect fall setting while networking with business and community leaders from across the region. The Fall Fete provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen professional relationships, forge new partnerships, and share ideas in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Westchester Talk Radio was on-site, with host Joan Franzino speaking with Brett Banchek, co-founder of Fenwick Partners, discussing business strategies, leadership, and community initiatives.

The Business Council of Westchester's Annual Fall Fete took place on Wednesday, October 8th, at the beautiful Harrison Meadows Country Club in Harrison, New York. This highly anticipated event brought BCW members together for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration. Guests enjoyed the perfect fall setting while networking with business and community leaders from across the region. The Fall Fete provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen professional relationships, forge new partnerships, and share ideas in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Westchester Talk Radio was on-site, with host Joan Franzino speaking with John Noonan, owner of Growth Plan Partners, highlighting insights on business growth and community engagement. 

The Business Council of Westchester's Annual Fall Fete took place on Wednesday, October 8th, at the beautiful Harrison Meadows Country Club in Harrison, New York. This highly anticipated event brought BCW members together for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration.  Guests enjoyed the perfect fall setting while networking with business and community leaders from across the region. The Fall Fete provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen professional relationships, forge new partnerships, and share ideas in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Westchester Talk Radio was on-site, with host Joan Franzino speaking with Charles Kaplan, owner of CH Kaplan Law, discussing business insights and community initiatives.

Welcome to Pulse: Amplify, where we sit down with the leaders and changemakers shaping the future of health. Today we're thrilled to be joined by Rohan Mead, chief author of the Business Council of Australia's Health and Care Blueprint, Chair of the BCA Health and Care Services Committee and Australian Unity chief executive.Across 140 recommendations in 6 reform pillars, the Business Council of Australia's Health and Care Blueprint lays out a bold vision: to modernise our fragmented system, boost productivity, and unlock billions in savings through digital transformation, smarter use of data, and the safe adoption of AI.Together, we unpack:Why BCA wrote the Blueprint, what's the sense of urgency around health reformThe demographic trends impacting healthWhy digital transformation is keyWhy it's time to centre healthcare around the consumerInvesting in interoperability and role of governmentsChanging the power dynamics of healthcareHow we build new business models for healthcareThe clinical demarcation changes needed to help fix healthcareAI, regulation and consent – what's the right model?Resources:Supporting a Healthy and Productive Nation, Business Council of Australia – LinkVisit Pulse+IT.news to subscribe to breaking digital news, weekly newsletters and a rich treasure trove of archival material. People in the know, get their news from Pulse+IT – Your leading voice in digital health news.Follow us on LinkedIn Louise | George | Pulse+ITFollow us on BlueSky Louise | George | Pulse+ITSend us your questions pulsepod@pulseit.newsProduction by Octopod Productions | Ivan Juric

On this episode of Policy Outsider, the Institute on Immigrant Integration Research and Policy is joined by John Ravitz, executive vice president and COO of the Business Council of Westchester and a former New York State legislator, to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing both local and national economies: the workforce crisis. From labor shortages in healthcare and education to the vital role of Westchester's immigrant workforce, Ravitz offers a candid and informed look at the challenges businesses face and the innovative strategies being used to adapt. The discussion, led by Institute on Immigrant Integration Deputy Director & Intergovernmental Liaison Guillermo Martinez, explores the impact of sweeping immigration policy changes, new federal laws, and the rise of minority-owned businesses, while also looking ahead to how technology and demographic shifts will shape the future of work in Westchester County.GuestsGuillermo Martinez, Deputy Director & Intergovernmental Liaison, Institute on Immigrant Integration Research and Policy John Ravitz, Executive Vice President and COO, Business Council of Westchester

Frank McKenna, Former Canadian Ambassador to the U.S., Derek Burney, Former Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. & Goldy Hyder, Business Council of Canada; The Front bench with: Dan Moulton, Shakir Chambers & Laura Stone; Danielle Smith, Alberta Premier; Mike Le Couteur, CTV News Senior Political Correspondent.

Prime Minister Mark Carney emerged from Tuesday's talks with U.S. President Donald Trump without immediate relief from steel tariffs, but Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc says the 'positive' meeting ended with Trump and Carney directing their cabinet members 'to quickly land' deals on steel, aluminum and energy. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, Business Council of Canada President Goldy Hyder and the Power Panel discuss whether Trump's positive signals are enough of a result from another Washington trip, and how likely it is that they'll be converted to meaningful relief for Canadians.

Prime Minister Mark Carney, once known as the Governor of the Bank of Canada, is set to table his first federal budget next month.With a few weeks left until the November 4th reveal, Ottawa is now putting the final touches on who gets what for the upcoming fiscal year.But with a projected deficit of $68B, Carney and his business-focused background will be looking for ways to spend smart, leaving some sectors inevitably vulnerable to cuts.Host Mike Eppel speaks to Theo Argitis, Senior VP of Policy at the Business Council of Canada, who also co-chaired a consultation proposal that outlines five points towards a prosperous upcoming budget. They discuss what challenges are up ahead for the Carney government, and the ways in which Ottawa could set some firm fiscal guardrails to prioritize economic growth. We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us:Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute Robert Pondiscio, and Former Times-Union Associate Editor Mike Spain.

The Business Council of Westchester proudly celebrated its Rising Stars – 40 Under 40 Awards on Tuesday, September 16, at the sleek Million Air venue at Westchester County Airport, honoring an exceptional group of young professionals who are shaping the county's future. These 40 dynamic leaders embody innovation, dedication, and community spirit, making Westchester a vibrant and flourishing place to live and do business. Westchester Talk Radio captured the excitement of the evening, with host Joan Franzino sitting down for a special interview with award winner Remy Silvestre, owner of Love To Learn. Together, these remarkable “Rising Stars” truly represent the next generation of Westchester's business excellence.

The Business Council of Westchester proudly celebrated its Rising Stars – 40 Under 40 Awards on Tuesday, September 16, at the sleek Million Air venue at Westchester County Airport, honoring an exceptional group of young professionals who are shaping the county's future. These 40 dynamic leaders embody innovation, dedication, and community spirit, making Westchester a vibrant and flourishing place to live and do business. Westchester Talk Radio captured the excitement of the evening, with host Joan Franzino sitting down for a special interview with honoree Anthony Bartolotta, owner of Pete's Saloon in Elmsford. Together, these remarkable “Rising Stars” truly represent the next generation of Westchester's business excellence.

The Business Council of Westchester proudly celebrated its Rising Stars – 40 Under 40 Awards on Tuesday, September 16, at the sleek Million Air venue at Westchester County Airport, honoring an exceptional group of young professionals who are shaping the county's future. These 40 dynamic leaders embody innovation, dedication, and community spirit, making Westchester a vibrant and flourishing place to live and do business. Westchester Talk Radio captured the excitement of the evening, with host Joan Franzino sitting down for a special interview with award winner Kayli Tarcy, Director of Marketing for the Cross County Center. Together, these remarkable “Rising Stars” truly represent the next generation of Westchester's business excellence.

The Business Council of Westchester proudly celebrated its Rising Stars – 40 Under 40 Awards on Tuesday, September 16, at the sleek Million Air venue at Westchester County Airport, honoring an exceptional group of young professionals who are shaping the county's future. These 40 dynamic leaders embody innovation, dedication, and community spirit, making Westchester a vibrant and flourishing place to live and do business. Westchester Talk Radio captured the excitement of the evening, with host Joan Franzino sitting down for a special interview with award winner Kara Magoolaghan, owner of KMCG LLC. Together, these remarkable “Rising Stars” truly represent the next generation of Westchester's business excellence.

(Sep 17, 2025) State policymakers are considering whether closing some of the state's psychiatric hospitals could help close the state's budget gap; we speak with a reporter at the Adirondack Explorer about public school enrollment trends in the Adirondacks; and a conversation about Corning's ultra-low expansion (ULE) glass, which is made in Canton and is a finalist in the state Business Council's "The Coolest Thing Made in New York" contest.

914INC Magazine's Best of Business celebration was held on Thursday, September 11, at the Royal Regency Hotel in Yonkers, honoring the remarkable achievements of Westchester's vibrant business community. The evening brought together local business leaders and professionals for a night of networking, recognition, and celebration, showcasing top companies across a wide range of B2B categories. Attendees connected with peers, shared insights, and celebrated the innovations and accomplishments fueling the region's economy. Adding a dynamic and informative touch to the event, Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone conducted interviews with key figures, including Linda Tyler, Vice President of Membership and Programs at The Business Council of Westchester, highlighting the organizations supporting local business excellence.

The Business Council of Westchester's Summer Soirée brought together a lively crowd at the picturesque Larchmont Yacht Club on July 9, 2025, offering a perfect blend of networking, relaxation, and entertainment. Guests enjoyed scenic boat rides on the Long Island Sound, creating memorable connections while taking in the summer breeze. Music and light refreshments set the tone for an evening of camaraderie and conversation. Westchester Talk Radio captured the excitement, with host Joan Franzino interviewing Jennifer O'Connor, owner of Elan Elite, who shared her insights on helping people feel like a million dollars by fostering a healthy life–work balance. It was an unforgettable night of community and inspiration.

The Business Council of Westchester's Summer Soirée drew an energetic mix of professionals to the beautiful Larchmont Yacht Club on July 9, 2025, where networking, relaxation, and entertainment came together in style. Attendees enjoyed breezy boat rides across the Long Island Sound, sparking meaningful conversations and new connections against a stunning waterfront backdrop. Music and light refreshments added to the festive atmosphere, creating a perfect summer evening. Westchester Talk Radio was on site to capture the event's highlights, with host Joan Franzino chatting with Matt Curtis, Vice President of Enrollment at the College of Westchester, about education, growth, and opportunities in the region.

The Business Council of Westchester's Summer Soirée brought together an enthusiastic crowd of professionals at the scenic Larchmont Yacht Club on July 9, 2025, for an evening that combined networking, relaxation, and entertainment. Guests enjoyed breezy boat rides along the Long Island Sound, making meaningful connections while taking in the stunning waterfront views. Live music and light refreshments set the perfect mood for summertime conversation and celebration. Westchester Talk Radio was there to capture the highlights, with host Joan Franzino interviewing Ralph Wiser of Outlast Power, who shared insights about innovative energy solutions and the company's vision for a more sustainable future.

The Business Council of Westchester's Summer Soirée gathered an energetic mix of professionals at the picturesque Larchmont Yacht Club on July 9, 2025, for a night of networking, relaxation, and lively entertainment. Attendees enjoyed refreshing boat rides along the Long Island Sound, sparking meaningful conversations and forging new connections while taking in the sweeping coastal scenery. Live music and light refreshments added to the festive atmosphere, making it a true celebration of summer. Westchester Talk Radio captured the excitement, with host Joan Franzino interviewing Rob Perretta, owner of Walk Your Plans New York, who shared insights about his innovative approach to bringing architectural and design visions to life.

Josh Dorrell is the CEO of the Wyoming Business Council.  I've long been an opponent of this agency because it's not the proper role of government to be monkeying around in the free-market.  Over it's existence, Wyoming taxpayers have dumped over half-a-billion dollars into it.  All the while Wyoming's GDP actually went down.  And, yes, I asked him about that.  Josh was kind enough to sit down and have a frank discussion about his agency and its proper place.

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Partner with the Albany law firm of Whiteman Osterman & Hanna Cianna Freeman-Tolbert, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute Robert Pondiscio, and CEO of The Business Council of New York State Heather Mulligan.