Satell Institute's Executive Session

The Satell Institute

Executive Session features the business world's most impactful CEOs talking about giving back to their communities — and why it's become THE crucial business strategy in the 21st century. In these candid, fast-paced conversations, you'll learn tactics and best practices from companies committed to Corporate Social Responsibility. You'll also hear why CSR helps not only communities and nonprofit organizations, but also employees, shareholders and companies. Executive Session is produced by the Satell Institute, the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility.

Episodes

  1. 21h ago

    The American Dream Is Alive and Well in Queens

    In this episode, Tom McGrath sits down with Tom Grech, CEO and President of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, to explore how the Chamber boosts economic development, promotes diversity, and fosters community resilience in Queens—New York City's most diverse borough. Discover how their work supports small businesses, attracts major investments, and drives innovative initiatives in technology and sustainability. Key Topics:The historical role and evolution of the Queens Chamber of Commerce since 1911How Queens’ diversity—190 languages and 300 countries—shapes Chamber strategiesThe impact of recent development projects: LaGuardia airport, JFK overhaul, mega casino entertainment projects, and US OpenSupport for small and large businesses, including mom-and-pop shops and corporationsThe Chamber’s core functions: education, advocacy, and networkingInitiatives in workforce development, including a cybersecurity academy and tech incubatorsExamples of companies giving back through philanthropy, internships, and community engagementThe importance of supporting not-for-profit organizations as part of economic and community growthCollaboration with elected officials and community organizations to streamline regulations and promote growthFuture plans: tech innovation, minority women-owned startups, and leadership in AI and cyber securityTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Queens Chamber of Commerce’s role in community growth 02:00 - Overview of Queens' diversity and economic landscape 05:00 - Historical background and evolution of the Chamber since 1911 08:30 - Major development projects transforming Queens (airports, casinos, stadiums) 12:00 - How local businesses—from mom-and-pops to multinationals—benefit from Chamber programs 15:00 - Core mission: education, advocacy, and networking features and success stories 18:00 - Chamber’s work supporting workforce development and tech innovation 22:00 - Philanthropy and corporate social responsibility initiatives in Queens 25:00 - Collaboration with community organizations and overcoming regulation barriers 28:00 - Future initiatives: cybersecurity, minority-owned startups, and global competitiveness 30:00 - Closing remarks and the Chamber’s vision for the future

  2. Feb 24

    A Brand Builder On Why Giving Back Is Essential for Your Company's Success

    Marc Brownstein, CEO of award-winning branding firm the Brownstein Group, visits the podcast and talks about why Corporate Social Responsibility is no longer just a "nice" thing to do — it's essential for your company's long-term growth. Marc talks about why companies need to develop a targeted CSR strategy and why authenticity is crucial. He also discusses brands that are doing CSR right — and seeing a big impact because of it. Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Marc Brownstein's background 02:45 - Brownstein Group’s evolution and expansion of services 04:40 - The cultural shift towards increased CSR focus 06:55 - The relationship between CSR and corporate branding 07:53 - Cause-related marketing examples (Subaru, Alex’s Lemonade Stand) 09:17 - Consumer expectations, especially among Gen Z 10:36 - Effective storytelling and authentic communication strategies 12:20 - Leadership’s role in embedding CSR into corporate culture 13:49 - Risks of inauthentic CSR efforts and reputation management 14:27 - Case study of NJM Insurance’s community involvement 17:00 - Virtuous cycle: employee engagement, brand loyalty, and community impact 19:23 - The strategic focus on select causes for greater impact 22:39 - Future trends: nonprofit consolidation and increased CSR pressure 25:06 - Moving from token gestures to strategic CSR initiatives 26:54 - The role of industry peer exchange through the Satell Institute 28:01 - The value of CEO conferences and peer learning in CSR strategy 29:24 - The importance of storytelling platforms and transparency 32:00 - Closing thoughts on long-term CSR strategy and authenticity Resources & LinksSatell InstituteBrownstein GroupSubaru’s Cause Marketing CampaignsAlex’s Lemonade Stand FoundationNJM Insurance Community InitiativesConnect with Marc BrownsteinLinkedInTwitter

    A Brand Builder On Why Giving Back Is Essential for Your Company's Success

About

Executive Session features the business world's most impactful CEOs talking about giving back to their communities — and why it's become THE crucial business strategy in the 21st century. In these candid, fast-paced conversations, you'll learn tactics and best practices from companies committed to Corporate Social Responsibility. You'll also hear why CSR helps not only communities and nonprofit organizations, but also employees, shareholders and companies. Executive Session is produced by the Satell Institute, the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility.