ESG Talk: Recent Episodes
Workiva
The ESG Talk podcast is your go-to source for environmental, social, and governance insights. Each week, we're featuring candid conversations with ESG leaders to transform complex ESG topics into simple, practical opportunities for business and society.
AI transformation is a problem of governance, not technology. Anthony Habayeb, CEO of Monitaur, argues that organizations don’t need to spin up a new AI governance framework, but they need better use of the controls CFOs and auditors already own.
In this episode:
-Why AI pilots stall and what it reveals about governance gaps
-How to build an AI governance framework from structures you already have
-Why the agent isn’t the risk, but the use case is
-Who owns accountability when an autonomous system takes action?
-How CFOs and audit teams are becoming the forcing function for AI quality
Subscribe for episodes on the issues shaping finance, audit, risk, and sustainability at the C-suite level.
Most climate risk assessments are missing hazards, scoping too narrowly, and leaving physical climate risk under-analyzed. Linda Romanovska helped write the rules, and she’s here to explain what better reporting looks like.
As co-author of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards and a member of the EU Sustainability Reporting Board, Linda has spent 20 years working on climate risk assessment across sectors and jurisdictions. She joined The Pre-Read to break down what mandatory climate-related financial disclosure requires.
In this episode:
Why most climate risk assessments assess too few hazards
The key differences between physical climate risk and transition risk
How to scope scenarios and time horizons without cutting corners
What climate-related financial disclosure users want to see
Where AI is making climate risk assessment faster and more audit-ready
The M&A market is heating up, and AI is compressing deal timelines from weeks to days.
In this episode of The Pre-Read, guest host Josh Gertsch and Troy Hooper of Mergermarket provide a capital markets update that touches on the SpaceX IPO, the quiet M&A surge, and why quality assets with resilient cash flows are winning. Then, guest host Esther Toth talks with Latitude Financial Services CFO Guillaume Leger about leading finance teams through change, AI, and why sustainability reporting is a frontier CFOs can’t ignore.
0:00 What’s in this episode
1:56 Capital markets & M&A update with Josh and Troy
3:32 The IPO boom and M&A recovery
4:39 Trends driving M&A
13:18 Esther asks Guillaume about guiding finance teams through change
16:55 Upsides and downsides to AI in finance
19:48 The new frontier of financial reporting
Subscribe to The Pre-Read for weekly conversations at the intersection of finance, sustainability, audit, and risk.
Sustainability reporting and financial reporting are converging fast. But the controller who treats them as the same thing could get burned.
In this episode, Dr. Lee Hui Mien of Singtel and Jonathan Gregory of The Hershey Company offer their views on one urgent question: what does it actually mean to bring sustainability reporting under the finance umbrella, and where does that process break down?
Chapters:
0:00 — Intro
2:30 — Dr. Lee Hui Mien on why sustainability data is fundamentally different
8:45 — Why restatement in sustainability is a feature, not a failure
13:20 — Scope 3 and why supply chain visibility can break down at tier two
19:10 — Jonathan Gregory, Global Controller at The Hershey Company
24:00 — AI governance and segregation of duties
29:45 — What the next five years demand from controllers
Guests:
Dr. Lee Hui Mien, Sustainability Leader, Singtel
Jonathan Gregory, Global Controller, The Hershey Company
Subscribe to The Pre-Read for more conversations at the intersection of finance, sustainability, audit, and risk.
Boards are under pressure to govern AI responsibly, but most directors still lack the knowledge to ask the right questions, let alone hold management accountable. Two leaders explain what it actually takes.
Dr. Chong Yoke Sin chairs Singapore’s SCS AI Ethics and Governance Council and sits on financial services, property, and healthcare boards. Heather Holding is Chief Risk Officer at Best Egg and hosts an AI adoption series called “AI With Heather.” They’ve approached AI governance from opposite ends of the org chart—and landed on the same answer.
In this episode:
- Why fiduciary responsibility now extends to AI (and what that means for directors who lack technical backgrounds)
- How continuous AI monitoring is disrupting the traditional three-lines-of-defense model
- The “organize my closet” onboarding method that got an entire risk team using AI regularly
- Why curiosity is the most important governance capability of the next 12 months
- What “clean data in” means for getting AI outputs you can trust
Subscribe to The Pre-Read for bi-weekly insight for finance, risk, audit, and sustainability leaders.
Climate mandates, GRC strategy, and a bike metaphor that'll change how you think about controls. In this episode, Alyssa Zucker speaks with sustainability expert Mark Mellen on California's SB 253 soft launch—and why companies treating this year as a free pass will be blindsided in 2027. Then 25-year GRC veteran Graeme Fleming explains why governance-first programs help organizations move faster. Chapters 00:00—Intro: California, GRC, and what's at stake 01:45—Mark Mellen: California SB 253 and the soft launch 07:00—SB 261, climate risk, and the commercial case 10:00—Global mandates: CSRD, ISSB, and the fragmented web 11:30—The ESG controller and data governance 17:00—Quantifying sustainability value 20:00—Graeme Fleming: Putting the G back in GRC 22:00—AI, the EU AI Act, and GRC's strategic role 23:00—The bike brake framework
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"I think risk factors have become more of an area where companies are trying to reduce their exposure to litigation, and it's not really viewed as being a meaningful section to most readers of financial statements." — Chelsea Hall
In this episode, we tackle SEC updates and the high-stakes world of IPO readiness. Market dynamics are shifting from rigid quantitative thresholds to a new era of professional judgment. Financial reporting expert Chelsea Hall unpacks recent SEC signals on materiality and the potential for significant tariff refunds. Then, Josh Gertsch joins to discuss the massive backlog of unicorn companies and a capital markets explosion sitting on the sidelines.
Key Discussion Points:
Materiality Overhaul: Why the SEC is moving away from the 5% or 10% rules and toward a crisp, digestible MD&A.
Tariff Refund Opportunity: Evaluating accounting models for potential recoveries following a Supreme Court ruling.
The Deal Accelerator: How AI is cutting weeks and months off due diligence and registration drafting.
The Rule of 40: Why investors are prioritizing companies where combined revenue growth and profit margin exceed 40%.
Timestamp Highlights:
0:00 - Intro
01:50 – Moving away from quantitative materiality thresholds
02:20 – The Supreme Court and tariff refund opportunities
03:55 – Why risk factors have become a "CYA" exercise
17:00 – The IPO quality bar and the return of the rule of 40
19:30 – Leveraging technology and AI in the deal cycle
24:40 – The shift in readiness strategy for private companies
A visit to Blockbuster Video used to be the ultimate Friday night trip, but today, that blue and yellow ticket is a legal battleground for intangible assets. In this episode of The Pre-Read, we unearth the true drivers of company valuation, from nostalgic trademarks to proprietary AI.
"The question isn't whether Blockbuster was famous. It's whether it's famous enough now for trademark law to care in the same way." —Ivan Moreno
Guest spotlight:
Ivan Moreno, senior reporter at Law360®, breaks down the Blockbuster trademark case against a Mississippi animal feed company. He discusses why heritage brands must fight to stay legally relevant even when they no longer lead the market.
Then Alana Chartier, Sustainability Analyst at Workiva, explains the $81 trillion blind spot in global company valuation. She argues that a 21st-century economy cannot run on 20th-century reporting systems that classify human capital and AI as costs instead of assets.
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
03:30 The Blockbuster trademark case vs. Southern Seed and Feed
05:40 Dilution by blurring: Can you protect a legacy name?
08:30 Accounting for brand value: Acquisition vs. internal builds
11:00 Reputation as a corporate credit score
18:40 The orchard analogy: Why we only count the fruit
21:30 Integrated reporting: Connecting financial and non-financial data
Subscribe to catch all upcoming episodes of The Pre-Read.
Don't let the political noise fool you: Green hushing is real, but green quitting is a myth. In this episode, we sit down with Grant Harrison, VP at Trellis Group, to bridge the narrative reality gap.
We explore how the office of the CFO is taking the lead, shifting sustainability from a values-driven initiative to a finance-led sustainability strategy anchored in financial materiality. Learn how to build a data backbone that delivers assurance-ready sustainability data for global mandates like CSRD and ISSB.
Key moments:
00:00 Introduction
02:15 Identifying the narrative reality gap in today's market
05:40 Green hushing vs. green quitting: What the data says
09:10 Why the controller's office is the new home for sustainability
12:50 Moving beyond a check-the-box compliance mindset
17:45 Using assurance-ready sustainability data to optimize the cost of capital
"Companies getting it right treat the disclosure as a byproduct of good decision-making, not an output of something that was ... machine built to produce PDF outcome." —Grant Harrison, VP of Sustainable Finance and ESG at Trellis Group
Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
#Sustainability #CFO #ESG #FinanceStrategy #Workiva
Is your reporting strategy ready for a six-month silence? #podcast
The traditional quarterly cycle is under the microscope. We explore the potential shift to semi-annual reporting and why "less" disclosure often results in more work for finance, legal, and IR.
What we cover:
» The Capital Gap: Will investors penalize companies that choose to say less?
» The 8-K Surge: Why voluntary filings might become the new 10-Q.
» The Governance Risk: Navigating longer "dark periods" and insider trading exposure.
» Decision-Grade Data: Why you can't afford to lose the discipline of a quarterly close.
The Insight:
"Never has an investor asked for less information." — Mike Rost,SVP & Chief Strategy Officer, Workiva
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
02:21 Highlights and Key Risks
04:23 IR Transparency Tradeoffs
07:39 Eight-K Takes Center Stage
10:43 Finance Governance and Data
13:54 Reg FD and Guidance Pressure
14:50 Insider Trading and Litigation
22:15 Final Takeaways and Readiness
26:06 Europe and UK Real-World Model
#SEC #CFO #InvestorRelations #Governance #ThePreRead #Workiva
Workforce reimagination is here. In 2026, the office of the CFO is moving from AI as a tool to a coworker.
Recorded in Davos, this episode digs into the human side of transformation. We sit down with global leaders to unpack why the human in the loop is being rewritten and why change management has become a core executive capability.
Mandi McReynolds talks with Costi Perricos, Global GenAI Business Leader at Deloitte, Dennis Woodside, CEO of Freshworks, and Dr. Márcia Balisciano, Board Member Foundation for the UN Global Compact and CSO of RELX, about what they're seeing on the ground as roles evolve from task execution to AI orchestration.
In this episode:
04:00 Costi Pericos on agentic collaboration and why HR and AI are converging
13:10 Dennis Woodside on the execution gap and changing daily work habits
15:30 Marcia Balisciano on CFO leadership and becoming "chief environmental champions"
19:00 Conclusion: Why CFOs must architect the agentic future
"I often say you'll learn without AI first so that one day you can be the human in the loop, coordinating and governing AI."
— Costi Pericos, Deloitte
Enjoy this episode? Find more at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
Traditional finance models are hitting a wall. This episode highlights a panel at Davos that gets straight to the engine room of the enterprise.
Jatin Dalal, Chief Financial Officer, Cognizant; Mike Rost, Chief Strategy Officer, Workiva; Jonathan Zanger, Chief Technology Officer, Check Point; and Jennifer Steinmann, Global Sustainability Business Leader, Deloitte gathered to talk about:
The ROI heresy: Why waiting for a fixed ROI is like using an obsolete map for a moving target
The 3x productivity jump: Why a 300% increase is the new starting point for AI
Security risks: Understanding white font attacks and AI doppelgangers in HR systems
Strategic insights: How predictive analytics and earth observation are changing risk valuation
Timestamps:
00:00—Multiplying traditional productivity by three
02:15—The Davos panel: AI promise and peril
04:10—Why ROI is an irrelevant measure for AI
05:40—Security alerts: The white font attack
07:15—The $3.8 trillion insight at stake
08:20—The Monday morning mandate
"Whatever you thought about traditional productivity multiplied by three at minimum, and that should be a starting point, not the end point." —Jatin Dalal, CFO of Cognizant
Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
Misinformation, amplified by AI, has climbed to the top of the global risk landscape. What does that mean for the office of the CFO?
We kick off a Davos miniseries with Workiva CSO Mandi McReynolds, bringing perspectives straight from the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Mandi sits down with Ami Badani, CMO of Arm, Rob Fisher, Global Head of Advisory at KPMG, and Robin Hodess, CEO of Global Reporting Initiative, to break down brand risk, workforce pressure, and why transparent, trusted data is now a leadership mandate.
In this episode:
04:00 Defending information certainty and proactive brand protection
09:30 The "dollar for dollar" rule: Investing equally in tech and people
18:00 Why reporting is becoming a frontline risk tool
21:00 Preview: The rise of cybersecurity doppelgangers
"For every dollar on the tech, you should be spending a dollar on the workforce transformation."
—Rob Fisher, Global Head of Advisory, KPMG
Enjoy this episode? Find more at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
#Davos2026 #GlobalRisk #CFO #AIStrategy #WorkforceTransformation
Is your organization ready for the SOX journey of sustainability data?
In this episode of The Pre-Read, we sit down with Lori Defnet, ESG Controller at The Hershey Company, to define the core remit of this emerging role. While traditional controllers guard the known, ESG controllers manage ambiguity. Lori shares how she navigates moving targets in the regulatory landscape and why curiosity and adaptability are the most critical skills for the next generation of finance leaders.
Key moments:
02:45—Defining the core remit of an ESG controller
05:30—The data challenge: ERP systems vs. supplier surveys
08:15—A "crawl, walk, run" approach to limited and reasonable assurance
11:40—Stakeholder management: Education and empathy
13:50—Will the ESG controller role eventually merge with finance?
17:15—Curiosity and adaptability in succession planning
"I think the role of that ESG controller is that translator to help teach the business and teach the finance organization how to get there." —Lori Defnet
Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
#ESG #Accounting #Sustainability #FinanceTransformation #Workiva
How do leaders turn messy data into something they can trust?
Global C-suite executive Amina Razvi joins us to explain why decision-grade data is the foundation of modern CFO risk management. She breaks down how integrating financial and non-financial data changes how companies manage volatility, price risk, and build long-term resilience.
In this conversation, we cover:
Why waiting for perfect data is a risk in itself
How sustainability data quality drives innovation, not just compliance
What CFOs gain by connecting financial, operational, and supply chain data
Why working pre-competitively can reduce risk across entire industries
Enjoying the show? Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
Subscribe for more insights on leadership, data, and risk.
Is your team ready for foreign private issuer (FPI) Section 16 reporting? Congress recently passed the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act, which fundamentally changes how international insiders must disclose their trades.
Alan Wilson and Chelsea Hall join the conversation to break down these new FPI director and officer reporting obligations and why the SEC has a tight deadline of March 18 to implement the rules. We discuss the sudden loss of exemptions, the need for individual EDGAR® codes, and the risks of missing the two-day filing window.
Chapters:
00:00–Introduction: A Regulatory Ground Shift The hosts introduce the end of long-standing exemptions for FPIs and the era of regulatory accommodation.
05:15–Breaking Down FPI Section 16 Reporting Alan Wilson explains the nuances of Form 3, 4, and 5 requirements, noting that while reporting is mandatory, short-swing liability (Section 16b) currently does not apply.
06:45–The Surprise of Congressional Speed Analysis of why Congress moved faster than the SEC and what this bipartisan unity signals for future securities rulemaking.
09:30–Future Outlook: Beyond Section 16 Insights into potential further changes, including updates to the FPI definition and the convergence of IFRS and US GAAP.
13:15–Infrastructure for Resilience Why investing in stability and agility is the only way to meet rapidly approaching deadlines like the March 18 cutoff.
17:30–Closing Thoughts: The Complexity of Compliance Final debate on whether this is a "big lift" for FPIs and how the market might react to potential moves toward quarterly reporting.
Enjoy this episode? Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
Subscribe to catch all our upcoming episodes.
https://www.workiva.com/What does leadership look like when volatility becomes the norm?
Workiva CEO Julie Iskow joins Steve Soder and Alyssa Zucker to unpack what 2025 taught executives and how to prepare for 2026. This conversation goes beyond headlines to explore how leaders can stay grounded while moving faster, make data a strategic asset, and meet rising board expectations with confidence.
In this episode:
Redefining resilience: Why stability and agility must coexist
Data integrity as strategy: Turning trusted data into a competitive advantage
AI readiness: Why governed, audit-ready data is the foundation for safe AI adoption
The evolving boardroom: How expectations are shifting toward deeper, more frequent engagement
Chapters
0:00 Defining resilience for 2026
3:15 Stability vs. agility in volatile markets
7:40 Data integrity: From compliance to strategy
11:20 When bad data becomes AI risk
15:00 The new expectations of the boardroom
18:30 Julie's word for 2026: Clarity
Enjoy this episode? Explore more conversations at the intersection of finance, risk, and sustainability at workiva.com/pre-read-podcast.
Steve and Alyssa are taking a well-earned break, but the challenges facing the office of the CFO are not slowing down. In this short episode, producer Mike Gravagno looks back on a year where AI moved from pilot programs to expectation and sustainability became more than a side conversation. Looking ahead to 2026, The Pre-Read will return with sharper conversations on data trust, AI governance, reporting rigor, and how leading teams turn systems into true productivity multipliers. Subscribe now and be ready for what's next.
Semiannual Reporting: Will doing "less" actually create more work?
Finance and accounting leaders are split on whether moving from quarterly to semiannual SEC reporting will simplify processes or compound risk. In this episode, industry expert Tom Schneiders joins to unpack what a reduced cadence would really mean for teams, investors, and market stability.
We cover:
- The hidden risk of doubling the data window—from three months to six
- Why most finance teams aren't asking to report less frequently
- How quarterly reporting strengthens risk management and operational discipline
- What's fueling the new momentum in the IPO pipeline
- Why generative AI is moving from experiment to essential for the C-suite
If you want to understand how reporting cadence shapes trust, transparency, and executive decision-making, this conversation is for you.
Jacob Andra, CEO of Talbot West, joins to discuss the urgent imperative for companies to move beyond siloed, ad hoc growth and embrace an integrated, tech-forward future.
What you will learn in this episode:
Why "total organizational intelligence" is a survival imperative for the modern enterprise
How orchestrating your data across the organization is a huge unlock for immediate revenue opportunities
The most common and foundational AI use case: standardized knowledge management powered by large language models
How to build a clear, defensible AI roadmap to avoid "AI washing" and drive real, long-term impact
Beyond large language models: Using advanced machine learning for complex optimization
Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read. Subscribe to catch all our upcoming episodes.
#Leadership #FinancePodcast #AITransformation #OrganizationalIntelligence
Could U.S. public companies shift from quarterly to semiannual reporting?
Jonathan Johnson, former chairman and CEO of Overstock and current member of various boards, joins the show to unpack one of the most debated proposals to SEC reporting. They explore whether fewer formal filings would help management teams stay focused on long-term enterprise value instead of reacting to quarterly earnings swings.
In this episode:
• How a semiannual cadence could affect a company's time horizon
• Whether companies would still feel pressure to share quarterly updates
• The gap between GAAP metrics and the metrics leaders actually use to run the business
• Why the growing length of 10-Qs and 10-Ks is fueling this debate
• The role XBRL® tagging plays in machine and AI analysis—and what could shift
• Whether board oversight and accountability would meaningfully change
Jonathan also points out that semiannual reporting already works in markets like Europe and Australia.
Catch this episode for a candid executive view on one of the biggest potential shifts in public-company reporting.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
01:15 Why semi-annual reporting is back in the spotlight
03:10 CEOs vs. CFOs: What the WSJ poll revealed
06:30 How quarterly reporting shapes internal rigor
08:00 Jonathan Johnson joins the conversation
08:20 Does quarterly reporting really drive short-term thinking?
13:00 Why internal reporting cadences won't change
15:20 Are 10-Qs simply too long?
18:00 Board oversight: What would actually change?
20:00 Should executives rethink their processes?
21:50 Semi-annual reporting around the world
Subscribe to The Pre-Read for more conversations at the intersection of finance, reporting, and leadership.
The Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE) is challenging long-held assumptions about what it means to go public in the U.S. Jeff Karcher joins The Pre-Read to share how the TXSE is rethinking the public company experience—reducing friction, lowering reporting and legal costs, and creating an environment where management can focus on running the business, not navigating lawsuits.
In this episode, we explore:
• How Texas' corporate growth sparked the idea for a new national exchange
• Why the TXSE focuses on helping companies become better public companies—not louder ones
• Legislative wins in Texas that curb excessive litigation and the weaponization of governance
• Why decentralization has made the physical location of an exchange less relevant
• The roadmap for building investor confidence through ETF/ETP listings and a physical exchange launch
• Why this is about practical rules that impact a company's bottom line, not loosening governance
Timestamps:
01:00 | Why Texas? Corporate growth and diversification
03:50 | The TXSE philosophy and vision
08:30 | Litigation, governance, and reporting costs
10:15 | Business judgment rule and D&O insurance benefits
14:30 | The exchange's national and global ambitions
18:00 | Decentralization and the future of trading
20:15 | Building investor confidence
23:45 | Advice for private companies preparing for an IPO
Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of finance, sustainability, governance, and strategy.
Financial data has its challenges—but non-financial data is a different scale of complexity. It cuts vertically up and down the value chain, and now requires the same level of confidence as financials, with board sign-off and external assurance becoming the norm.
In this episode of The Pre-Read, we break down how finance and sustainability leaders are aligning around programs like sustainability-linked bonds, why a long-term mindset matters, and how AI is helping organizations make sense of fragmented, non-standardized information.
• Why sustainability data is more complex than financial data
• The need for integration—top-down from the board and across every business unit
• How companies build data confidence through external assurance
• The two-pillar reporting model: impact (GRI, SDGs) and value (ISSB, TCFD, TNFD)
• Why brave leadership and a growth mindset are essential for adopting new technology
Featuring:
Esther An, CSO, City Developments Limited
Andrea Amozurrutia Casillas, Finance and Sustainability Director, Grupo Herdez
Read the full report on how professionals are building value with AI: workiva.com/pr-building-value
Key Segments:
01:00 | Why sustainability data is more complex
03:50 | The two-pillar approach: Impact + value
08:30 | Esther An on board sign-off and assurance
15:30 | Long-term view in a volatile environment
18:00 | Andrea Amozurrutia Casillas on sustainability-linked bonds
25:30 | Why AI matters for data chaos
Find more conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
Subscribe for upcoming episodes.
The chief sustainability officer (CSO) is moving from a siloed function to a strategic, finance-aligned partner.
In this episode of The Pre-Read, Workiva Chief Sustainability Officer Mandi McReynolds sits down with Serena Oppenheim, co-founder of Fin-Erth, to discuss the need for a tighter integration between the CFO and the CSO, framing sustainability as enterprise risk management.
Serena Oppenheim explains why genuine community, not transactional networking, is the key to tackling big business problems. Learn about the power of the small ask—focusing on manageable tasks that impact business and society. Mandi and Serena also share:
Why the CFO, CSO, and CIO worlds are starting to work together
The growing frustration when the sustainability function sits in a silo
How to build your own "table" with people who will challenge your thinking
The importance of asking different questions in a new executive role
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:50 Climate Week takeaways: The partnership of the CFO and CSO
03:30 Framing sustainability as enterprise risk management
04:20 Serena Oppenheim on building trust and community
05:15 The power of the small ask
07:10 Why traditional networking is awful for introverts
09:40 The accidental birth of Thin Earth as a community
12:50 Being intentional with C-suite relationships
17:00 How to build your own table with dissenters
20:45 Leaning into a different perspective at the executive table
25:00 Finding your business superpower to build your table 2
8:00 Driving strategy by looking at financial and sustainability data together
AI has completely changed the rules of marketing, and finance can't afford to play catch-up. Workiva's VP of Revenue Marketing, Joel Capperella, joins Steve Soter to unpack how AI is reshaping data, trust, and decision-making across the business.
As progression analysis evolves and web traffic declines, traditional forecasting and investment models are losing their edge. This episode breaks down what modern finance and marketing leaders must do to keep pace.
You'll learn:
Why the old CFO-CMO disconnect is no longer sustainable
How AI's data disruption is forcing a new model of collaboration
Why credibility and transparency are now the most valuable data currencies
What separates a caretaker CFO from a truly transformative one
Watch the full episode for practical insights on data trust, financial transformation, and redefining success in the age of AI.
00:00 Introduction
01:14 Rewriting the Marketing Playbook with AI
02:42 The Changing Role of CFOs in the AI Era
06:25 The Future of Marketing and Finance Collaboration
10:14 Closing Thoughts
AI is revolutionizing finance, but the hardest part isn't coding or controls—it's fear.
In this episode of The Pre-Read, recorded live at Amplify 2025 in Washington, D.C., finance and accounting leaders share unfiltered takes on how AI is changing the way teams think, work, and lead.
You'll learn:
Why fear of losing data lineage and control slows AI adoption
How AI is driving teams to strengthen data processes—even before they deploy it
Why emotional resilience and communication are essential for transformation
Real-world AI use cases freeing up time for high-value work
How to lead through uncertainty with confidence and trust
Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:43 AI in Finance: Leaders' Perspectives
03:23 Concerns and Benefits of AI Adoption
08:24 Navigating Uncertainty with AI
14:11 Broader Uncertainty and Leadership
16:56 Optimizing Team Efficiency with AI
18:22 Addressing AI Fears and Human Value
19:21 Maintaining Team Resilience and Progress
22:55 The Importance of Check-ins and Communication
24:45 Embracing AI as a Team Companion
28:19 Navigating Rapid Change and Continuous Improvement
Hosted by Steve Soter and Alyssa Zucker.
Learn more at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read
AI isn't perfect and sometimes it makes us worse at our jobs. Jen Stave of the Digital, Data, and Design Institute at Harvard joins The Pre-Read to explore why even top experts can become less effective with AI, what "cognitive offloading" really means, and why the future of AI success depends on human culture, not just code.
Watch to learn:
How the "jagged frontier" changes AI's reliability
Why some workers thrive with AI while others falter
The hidden risks of treating AI like a teammate
What leaders can do to create a culture of safe experimentation
AI is transforming audit, risk, and corporate governance—but most companies are struggling to keep up.
In this episode of The Pre-Read, Radical Compliance's Matt Kelly and Shane Negangard, Senior Director of Internal Audit at Workiva, join hosts Steve Soter and Alyssa Zucker to discuss:
✅ Why "shadow AI" is a real compliance threat
✅ How governance and internal controls must evolve
✅ The risks of AI in employee training and internal audit
✅ How auditors can move from reactive to proactive in an AI world
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: The real risk of "shadow AI" in audit and compliance
02:10 – Why AI is rewriting governance faster than policies can catch up
05:25 – The blurred line between automation and accountability
09:40 – What internal auditors are seeing on the ground
14:05 – How CFOs and CAOs can partner with marketing and data teams on AI
17:30 – Governance, controls, and the need for real-time oversight
21:15 – Why culture and education matter more than ever
25:10 – The future of AI governance and trust in reporting
If you're in audit, risk, compliance, or finance, this episode is your playbook for governing AI responsibly—without slowing innovation.
Jill Klindt, Workiva CFO, sits down with Ayssa and Steve live at Amplify 2025 in D.C. Hear how she navigated early startup life, tackled the challenges of being the public face of a company, and what advice she has for aspiring professionals.
00:00 Introduction 02:20 Early Career and Transition to Workiva 03:58 Building Workiva from the Ground Up 05:09 Becoming the CFO: Challenges and Insights 10:06 Reflections and Career Advice 14:43 Conclusion and Farewell
AI is no longer just hype; it’s a powerful tool in corporate reporting. But what does it take to truly trust the outputs it produces? On this episode of The Pre-Read, Workiva Chief Information Officer Kim Huffman talks with Deepa Rao, a leader in sustainability and AI governance. They break down the essential steps for executives to govern and validate AI, including the "AIRS" framework for accountability, integrity, reporting, and stewardship. You'll learn why data quality is paramount, why a hybrid approach of artificial intelligence plus human intelligence is the most successful model, and the critical skills teams need to develop to challenge the machine's outputs and build confidence in their data.
Episode Highlights: * 0:00 Introduction * 01:00 Is AI a copywriter or a core part of corporate reporting? * 03:50 The biggest gaps in data readiness and why you can't trust what you can't trace. * 08:30 Best practices for integrating AI: Start small and scale with confidence. * 10:15 The 'ARES' framework for responsible AI governance. * 14:30 The power of a human intelligence and artificial intelligence hybrid model. * 18:00 The critical skills teams need to develop beyond basic AI training.
Sustainability isn’t a silo anymore—it’s shaping strategy across the balance sheet. In this episode of The Pre-Read, two CEOs share how they’re modernizing corporate approaches to climate challenges. Natalia Dorfman, CEO of Kita, explains how carbon insurance de-risks voluntary markets and drives capital into climate projects. Then, Orianna Bretschger, CEO of Aquacycl, shows how innovations in industrial wastewater treatment can reduce costs, lower emissions, and strengthen resilience.
00:00 Introduction
01:45 Types of risks in carbon projects
03:20 Why carbon projects are resilient to short-term political shifts
05:00 How profitability and ROI drive climate technology
06:40 The future of the voluntary carbon market
08:30 How executives can reframe sustainability as a financial metric
10:00 Why water is a critical business resource
11:30 Rethinking wastewater as a business opportunity
13:00 The financial and reputational risks of poor water stewardship
15:45 Metrics that prove ROI in wastewater management
17:00 Advice for leaders on making their operations more resilient
#CFO #Sustainability #ESG #CarbonMarkets #ClimateFinance #RiskManagement
Record numbers of CEOs are leaving their posts. But why? This week on The Pre-Read, Tim Paradis of Business Insider weighs in on the forces at play, from burnout to impatient boards and activist investors. We also hear from Workiva Chief People Officer Emily Forrester on why CEO succession must be more than a talent pipeline exercise. One keystone is working closely with the office of the CFO to ensure resilience through leadership transitions that align with long-term value.
88% of finance, accounting, audit, and sustainability professionals in a new survey say they've seen an increase in ROI from using AI in the last year. But there’s a disconnect: only about a third of companies surveyed have the necessary governance, high-quality data, and role-specific training to support it.
In this episode of The Pre-Read, we sit down with Workiva Chief Accounting Officer Junko Swain and Chief Information Officer Kim Huffman to discuss the implications of the Workiva 2025 Global Practitioner Survey. We explore why the C-suite is uniquely positioned to set the foundation for a successful and secure AI strategy.
Timestamps: 01:00 ROI and the lack of AI governance
04:00 Defining high-quality data
06:30 The role of AI in data quality
08:00 The importance of role-specific training
10:45 The difference between generic and specialized AI tools
12:30 How the C-suite can set the foundation for AI strategy
Read more from the survey at workiva.com/PR-BuildingValue
Leaders in charge of projects around artificial intelligence and sustainability don’t need to manage those two trends in parallel, says Professor Michael Wade of IMD. In fact, strategies for the two are bound to intersect.
The Pre-Read hosts Steve Soter and Alyssa Zucker dig into AI, sustainability, and how leaders can harness the transformative power of one to unlock the game-changing impacts of the other.
Keep listening because there is an obstacle to twin transformation that may surprise you.
0:00 Intro
02:33 Meet Professor Michael Wade
03:36 The two mega trends of the decade
04:28 The ties that bind
07:22 The best-positioned sectors to take advantage
08:44 OK, so what are the blockers?
12:21 Transformation is closer than you think
12:23 The playbook
Subscribe to catch all our upcoming episodes, including episodes about the latest conversations in all things #accounting #finance #sustainability #audit and #risk.
The PCAOB is under siege. Critics say it's overreached its mission while supporters argue we've forgotten why it was created: to prevent another Enron or WorldCom.
On this episode of The Pre-Read, Workiva Industry Principals Chelsea Hall and Grant Ostler join for a roundtable to discuss what's broken and what's worth saving. We examine the push to dismantle the board and roll its responsibilities into the SEC. We also discuss what executives need to keep in mind, the importance of maintaining investor confidence in financial reporting, and how leveraging technology can streamline compliance and reduce the burden of documentation.
0:00 Introduction
01:40 What's going on with the PCAOB?
03:20 Is this political theater or a real threat?
05:00 Why the PCAOB matters to the C-suite
06:30 The value of audits as a foundation for capital markets
08:00 Where the PCAOB may have missed the mark
10:15 The cost of compliance
13:30 Investor concerns on regulation and efficiency
16:15 How companies can prepare for change
17:30 Finding the balance between regulation and efficiency
Enjoy this episode? Find past conversations of us surfing the uncharted waters of accounting, finance, risk, and wherever else the waves take us at workiva.com/pre-read-podcast.
Subscribe to catch all our upcoming episodes, including episodes about the latest conversations in all things finance, sustainability, audit, and risk.
The market is changing, and it’s not just about inflation or interest rates. It’s rewriting valuations, reworking supply chains, and reshaping your disclosures. This episode of The Pre-Read, brought to you by Workiva, explores what happens when market volatility meets materiality, and why CFOs, GCs, and audit chairs are all paying attention. We feature insights from Nick Mazing of AlphaSense and Josh Gertsch, Workiva Industry Principal for Capital Markets, on the unpredictable forces at play. Nick discusses the messy and varied impact of tariffs, noting that the deal-by-deal approach has created an unpredictable environment, even for companies expected to benefit. He also touches on how AI is maturing in corporate disclosures, the return of M&A, and the growing number of companies allocating to Bitcoin. Josh provides a historical perspective on the IPO market, highlighting the biggest boom in over 20 years, followed by some of the worst years ever, and its current upward trend. He explains that despite a large pipeline of companies ready to go public, market volatility—especially with changes over 20%—is preventing deals from being priced. He advises companies to focus on what they can control, such as refining their equity story and ensuring operational readiness, while they wait for stability. Timestamps: 03:00 The messy and explicit nature of tariff disclosures 06:25 The copper example: Who are tariffs really helping? 09:15 Other topics showing up in earnings releases: AI, inflation, and M&A 11:00 Interest rates, inflation, and the new normal 13:50 The return of big M&A deals 15:45 The risk of assessing the impact in SEC filings 18:50 Josh Gertsch’s background and expertise in capital markets 21:30 What happened to the pent-up demand for IPOs 25:30 What needs to happen for the IPO window to open again 30:40 The importance of the equity story and operational readiness #IPOs #CapitalMarkets #Tariffs #M&A #Finance #Workiva #MarketVolatility Subscribe to catch all our upcoming episodes and never miss out on the latest discussions in all things accounting and finance.
AI is here, and it’s sparking conversations about everything from how we work to how we report. This episode of The Pre-Read, brought to you by Workiva, dives into the heart of what happens when artificial intelligence meets the real world of finance and risk. We’re talking about why CFOs, general counsels, and audit chairs are all leaning in—and what questions they’re asking.
Our own CFO, Jill Klindt, spills the beans about how finance teams can use AI to make their jobs better, not replace them. Think augmenting expertise and making those tedious tasks disappear. She’s also got the inside scoop on why data quality is like gold for AI success and why CFOs should lead the charge when it comes to experimenting with this new tech.
Plus, Alan Wilson, Partner at WilmerHale, gives us the straight talk on the legal side of things. He emphasizes getting your legal team involved early, treating AI just like any other business risk, and keeping an eye on how regulatory accountability is already shaping up. It’s a must-listen for anyone ready to navigate the exciting, and sometimes head-scratching, world of AI.
Timestamps:
02:30 Jill K. on AI: Enhancing human expertise versus automating the mundane.
05:10 Unlocking value: Where AI fits into your income statement.
08:00 Inside Workiva’s AI strategy: Collaborating to build better tech.
10:45 Why clean data is the secret sauce for AI success.
13:30 Jill K’s candid advice for executives embracing the AI future.
15:45 Alan W. on looping in legal when implementing AI.
18:30 Public perception: How to talk about AI without overselling it.
21:00 Navigating the legal maze: Agencies, juries, and the “AI washing” problem.
24:30 Peering into the crystal ball: Unforeseen risks and the future of AI.
Just like the slides before a big meeting, The Pre-Read gets CFOs and execs ready for what’s next. Each week, hosts Alyssa Zucker and Steve Soter connect the dots between finance, sustainability, audit, and risk — with sharp insights and unfiltered conversations from leaders navigating change at scale. If you’re driving transformation or need to understand the ones who are, this is your prep. Subscribe now!
In this bonus episode of ESG Talk, we throw back to a live recording of our sister show Off the Books. Charley Nelson is an environmental policy major who joined a technical accounting team at Etsy. Charley explains why that actually makes sense and what he’s learned from working with accountants.
We're hard at work creating the next evolution of the show and we want to hear from YOU! We want the show to be a resource that reflects what's most important to you. What’s top of mind for you? What questions do you have? What issues are you facing that you think we should dive into? Is there a topic you wish you could ask a whole bunch of peers about to see what they’re each doing? Whether you’re looking for deeper insights, practical tips, or even guest speakers with expertise in your field, we’re all ears. If you have thoughts, suggestions, or topics you’d like us to explore, don’t hesitate to reach out! You can contact us at press@workiva.com
Join Mandi McReynolds and an esteemed panel at UnDavos as they dive into the evolving role of Chief Sustainability Officers post-global elections. Featuring insights from top executives like Dr. Anna Gawlikowska, Co-Founder & CEO @ Swiss AI AG, Rainer Karcher, Founder & CEO of Heartprint GmbH, and Viktoriia Savitska, Chief of Sustainability and Strategic Engagement from EPICNTR Group, this discussion covers the essential values driving their sustainability strategies, the importance of collaboration, and the innovative use of AI to tackle sustainability challenges. Tune in to discover how industry leaders are navigating regulatory landscapes, business performance, and environmental impact to build a sustainable future.
This week, Deanna Bratter, Chief Sustainability Officer at Crocs, Inc., joins Alyssa Zucker to talk about the company's pioneering initiatives in the circular economy. They discuss Crocs, Inc.'s introduction of the Keep It Going Classic Clog, made with 25% recycled content, and the 2023 launch of their retail take-back program. Tune in for highlights of the challenges and strategies associated with the program, including customer reactions and scalability. Plus, Crocs, Inc.'s social responsibility initiatives within their supply chain, and so much more!
In this episode of ESG Talk, Cassandra Garber, chief sustainability officer at Dell Technologies joins host Mandi McReynolds. Listen in as Cassandra and Mandi discuss how the global technology leader incorporates the measurement, management, and governance of ESG priorities into both its operations and product offerings.
This week, Mandi McReynolds, along with co-hosts Steve, Andie, and Alyssa, discuss the latest findings from Workiva’s Executive Benchmark survey that explores the intersection of finance and sustainability amidst global political complexities. Highlighting the importance of integrated reporting, they address the impact of European legislation, ISSB standards, and U.S. state-level regulations. The conversation delves into the strategic value creation of sustainability reporting and offers practical advice for engaging with the C-suite. Read the 2025 Executive Benchmark on Integrated Reporting. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:35 Executive Benchmark Survey Insights 01:51 Impact of European Legislation on Companies 05:04 Global Implementation of ISSB Standards 07:48 State-Level Climate Regulations in the US 13:40 Value Creation Through Sustainability Reporting 18:52 Practical Tips and Humorous Insights 28:58 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
This episode of ESG Talk is a special crossover with the accounting and finance podcast, Off The Books! The momentum behind sustainability is changing around the world. How are companies adjusting their environmental, social, and governance programs as the political landscape shifts? Steve and Catherine ask Brandon Buhler, Chief Accounting Officer for Playa Hotels and Resorts, and Esther Toth, Senior Industry Principal at Workiva, about the future of sustainability. Read some original research on this topic here.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Amy Brachio, global vice chair of sustainability at EY, and Michael Goldhaber, a senior research scholar at New York University’s Stern Center for Business and Human Rights, join the show with Alyssa Zucker. Listen in as they explore how shareholder advocacy is evolving on environmental and social issues and what it means for companies.
In this special bonus episode of ESG Talk recorded live at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Mandi McReynolds sits down with Jill Klindt, CFO of Workiva, to discuss the interplay between sustainability and financial performance. They explore how emerging tech like generative AI is revolutionizing regulatory compliance and business processes, the evolving roles of chief sustainability officers, and the importance of integrating non-financial data in achieving company goals. Tune in for insights on sustainable innovation, growth strategies, and the future of ESG reporting.
ESG Talk hosts Mandi McReynolds, Steve Soter, Andie Wood, and Alyssa Zucker come together for the season four premiere to reflect on the transformative year of 2024 and discuss the key sustainability, governance, and technological trends shaping 2025. Listen in for actionable insights for turning complexity into opportunity in the year ahead!
In this special episode of ESG Talk, Mandi McReynolds reflects on pivotal climate conversations leading up to Davos, revisiting key discussions from Climate Week NYC and COP29 in Azerbaijan. Joined by Steve Soter and Mike Gravagno, they dive into insights from professionals across industries, exploring the goals, challenges, and outcomes of these critical conferences. Tune in for a look at how these global events are shaping the future of sustainability initiatives.
Our final ESG Talk replay features two engaging episodes, featuring Alison Taylor, clinical associate professor at NYU Stern School of Business, and Tarynn Zenk, vice president of accounting and ESG controller at Mastercard. In part one, Tarynn highlights the growing role of ESG controllers, focusing on how their work at the intersection of finance and sustainability ensures the credibility of corporate ESG disclosures. In part two, Alison discusses the role of business in society and the use of data and technology to create long-term value.
In this episode of ESG Talk, we’re replaying the last two segments from the Climate Week series. Frank Koch, CEO of Swiss Steel Group, and Alberto Carrillo Pineda, CTO of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), discuss long-term decarbonization strategies and the importance of emissions transparency. Nancy Mahon, chief sustainability officer of the Estée Lauder Companies, adds to the conversation with her expertise on Scope 3 measurement and the unique challenges of driving sustainability across a diverse brand portfolio.
In this episode, ESG Talk revisits key segments from the Climate Week series, spotlighting actionable solutions and industry insights. First, join hosts Steve Soter, Andie Wood, and Alyssa Zucker as they demystify greenhouse gas emissions and explore practical approaches to carbon accounting. Then, hear from Amelia DeLuca, Delta Air Lines’ chief sustainability officer, as she discusses Delta’s innovative strategies for reducing direct carbon emissions and advancing sustainable aviation fuel production in the airline industry.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Mandi McReynolds is onsite in Baku at COP29 with Linda-Eling Lee, head of the Sustainability Institute at MSCI, to explore the evolving role of businesses in tackling global climate challenges. Listen in as they discuss key themes from COP29, including the rise of transition finance, the complexities of operating in a global economy, and the integration of AI into sustainability strategies.
Read more about the Sustainability Institute’s research here: https://www.msci-institute.com/.
In this replay episode of ESG Talk, we bring together our two-part series featuring Amalgamated Bank's CEO, Priscilla Sims Brown, CFO Jason Darby, and special guest host Kim Huffman, CIO of Workiva. Learn how Amalgamated Bank leverages technology to advance its mission-driven business model and actionable strategies for organizations looking to make an impact.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Mandi McReynolds welcomes Kristen Siemen, former chief sustainability officer at General Motors to the show. Listen in as they discuss how one of the world’s largest automakers is integrating electrification, sustainability, and innovation into its culture.
This episode was recorded prior to Siemen’s departure from GM.
Ann Tracy, chief sustainability officer, and Lauren Richardson, chief procurement officer, of Colgate-Palmolive, join ESG Talk with Alyssa Zucker to discuss how collaboration and innovation drive sustainability in the CPG industry. They share insights on Colgate-Palmolive's journey as the first multinational consumer company to have net-zero goals approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and how teamwork and creativity help reach sustainability goals.
During Climate Week NYC, Workiva released a report with research on how companies are getting ready for the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and how practitioners feel about it. Dig into the findings in this crossover episode with ESG Talk host Mandi McReynolds, Off the Books host Steve Soter, and Workiva Industry Principals Alyssa Zucker and Esther Toth.
Check out the full report.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Caitlin Leibert, vice president of sustainability at Whole Foods Market, joins host Alyssa Zucker to explore how technology, supply chain engagement, and industry partnerships are driving sustainability strategies. The duo discuss key takeaways from Whole Foods' 2023 Impact Report, highlighting the company’s commitment to responsible stewardship, sustainable sourcing, and transparency.
This week’s ESG Talk episode features Michael Littenberg and Marc Rotter of Ropes & Gray, one of the world's premier law firms with over 1,500 attorneys worldwide. The duo joins Andie Wood to discuss the complexities of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and explore its far-reaching implications for businesses in Europe and beyond.
In this week’s episode of ESG Talk, Anke Ehlers, managing director of international sustainability at the ALDI SOUTH Group, joins Workiva’s Andie Wood to discuss the complexities of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Tune in as they discuss what this new regulation means for European companies and the steps the ALDI SOUTH Group, one of the world’s largest supermarket chains, is taking to prepare for its implementation.
Recorded live at Amplify Americas, this special episode of ESG Talk features Ron Insana, award-winning journalist from CNBC, moderating an insightful discussion with industry leaders: Katherine Neebe, Chief Sustainability Officer at Duke Energy; Alexander Davis, Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Pie Insurance; Maura Hodge, KPMG’s U.S. sustainability leader; and Kim Huffman, Chief Information Officer at Workiva. Together, they explore how reporting professionals can leverage data and foster cross-functional collaboration to effectively navigate the rapid changes shaping the ESG landscape.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Tom Rayner, founder of Sillion, a transition consultancy focused on corporate ESG, and Ian Plummer, the commercial director of Auto Trader Group, the largest automotive marketplace in the United Kingdom join Andie Wood. Tune in as they discuss the sustainability skills gap and share practical advice and lessons learned from successfully implementing a carbon literacy program for over 1,000 professionals.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Sara Kappelmark, Co-CEO of Norrsken Foundation, and host Mandi McReynolds explore how startups are driving transformative change across industries. Sara shares insights from the foundation’s 2024 Impact 100 list, highlighting groundbreaking solutions in renewable energy, carbon-free cement, and healthcare.
In the fourth and final episode of the ESG Talk Climate Week series, Nancy Mahon, chief sustainability officer of the Estée Lauder Companies, joins host Alyssa Zucker to discuss the company’s approach to Scope 3 measurement and reporting. They cover the impact of consumer sustainability preferences and the unique challenges of leading sustainability efforts across a diverse portfolio of brands.
In the third installment of ESG Talk’s Climate Week series, Frank Koch, CEO of Swiss Steel Group, and Alberto Carrillo Pineda, CTO of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), join Mandi McReynolds to discuss long-term decarbonization strategies, the steel industry's commitment to sustainable production, and the importance of full emissions transparency.
In the second episode of the ESG Talk Climate Week series, Amelia DeLuca, Delta Air Lines’ chief sustainability officer, speaks with Andie Wood about Delta Air Lines’ strategies for reducing its direct carbon emissions and efforts to increase sustainable aviation fuel production within the airline industry.
In this special Climate Week episode, ESG Talk and The Week in Sustainability team up to demystify greenhouse gas emissions. Join us as hosts Steve Soter, Andie Wood, and Alyssa Zucker kick off a four-part series focused on practical solutions for carbon accounting, management, and achieving net-zero goals.
In part two of this special 100th episode series of ESG Talk, we continue our conversation with Amalgamated Bank's CEO, Priscilla Sims Brown, and CFO, Jason Darby, to discuss how they use technology to drive the company's mission-driven business model and share actionable insights for other organizations.
In this special 100th episode of ESG Talk, we kick off a two-part series with Priscilla Sims Brown, CEO of Amalgamated Bank, Jason Darby, CFO, and special guest host Kim Huffman, CIO of Workiva. Discover how the bank has aligned its entire organization around a century-old mission, while driving a modern, socially responsible business.
In the second installment of a series exploring sustainable finance, co-host Andie Wood meets with Maria Lettini, CEO of the US Sustainable Investment Forum (SIF), and Kevin Thomas, CEO of the Shareholder Association for Research and Education (SHARE), to discuss how sustainable investors influence corporate sustainability strategy and ESG reporting.
The first installment of a two-part series, this episode explores sustainable finance from the perspective of Germany's leading bank. Jörg Eigendorf, Deutsche Bank’s Chief Sustainability Officer, joins co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss the organization’s sustainability strategy, its sustainable finance framework and how the bank supports its clients with their transitions.
Michael Schor, partner in Deloitte & Touche LLP’s Risk & Financial Advisory practice, and Grant Ostler, GRC industry principal at Workiva, join co-host Steve Soter for the latest episode of ESG Talk. The group explores the risks of unintentional greenwashing, external pressure on sustainability reporting, and how good governance builds truth and transparency.
Julia Binder, professor of sustainable innovation and business transformation at IMD Business School, and Manuel Braun, director of Systemiq and lecturer at the Technical University of Munich, join co-host Andie Wood to share how businesses can integrate circularity into existing frameworks, illustrated by successful, real-world case studies.
Matt Kelly, editor and CEO of Radical Compliance, and Matthew Williams, ESG solutions lead at Clearview, join co-host Steve Soter to explore how cybersecurity and ESG intersect. Together, they discuss the challenges of assessing the importance of cybersecurity events, a year after the SEC introduced new rules on disclosing such incidents.
Bhushan Sethi, partner in PwC’s Strategy& consulting business and adjunct professor at NYU Stern School of Business, returns to the show alongside best-selling author and keynote speaker Stan Phelps. Stan, Bhushan, and co-host Mandi McReynolds discuss the significance of trust and transparency in employee engagement and the relationship between well-being and financial performance.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Brett Weaver, tax leader for the ESG Practice at KPMG US, joins Workiva’s Andie Wood to discuss everyone’s favorite topic. Together they explore how tax acts as both a driver and measure of sustainability, taking advantage of green tax incentives, and the different approaches to tax policy in the United States and Europe.
In this episode of ESG Talk, host Mandi McReynolds reflects on her conversation with AT&T's Chief Sustainability Officer, Charlene Lake. They discuss the importance of achieving audit-ready ESG data and the crucial role technology plays in tracking and reporting emissions data.
Laura Lane, chief corporate affairs and sustainability officer at UPS, joins Workiva’s Andie Wood to explore how one of the world’s largest package delivery companies is tackling emissions reduction. Listen in as they discuss the importance of leveraging data to drive down emissions, optimize investments, and achieve sustainability goals.
Jim Andrew, PepsiCo’s chief sustainability officer, joins Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds to discuss sustainable agriculture. Listen in as they explore forging trust and accountability in the supply chain, the concept of shared value, and the role of partnership in achieving ESG goals.
Tarynn Zenk, vice president of accounting and ESG controller at Mastercard, joins co-host Mandi McReynolds on the latest episode of ESG Talk to discuss the growing role of ESG controllers within companies. Discover how ESG controllers navigate the intersection of finance and sustainability, safeguarding the credibility of companies' ESG disclosures.
Garrett Quinn, group chief sustainability officer at Smurfit Kappa Group, one of the leading providers of paper-based packaging, and Robert Eccles, a leading authority on sustainability, join co-host Andie Wood on the latest ESG Talk episode. Listen in as they explore the intricacies of navigating sustainability and financial performance, achieving sustainability targets, and Smurfit Kappa's journey with implementing the Taskforce for Nature-related Financial Disclosures.
Shivaram Rajgopal, chair of the accounting division at Columbia Business School, and Gihan Hyde, founder and CEO of Communique, join co-host Mandi McReynolds on the latest episode of ESG Talk. Listen in as they discuss their advice for current and emerging leaders as well as how sustainability adds soul to accounting and could attract more people to the profession.
Eric Alam, CEO of RPD Energy, and Chris Pennington, director of energy and sustainability for Iron Mountain, join co-host Mandi McReynolds on ESG Talk to discuss the journey to carbon-free data centers. Listen in as they explore the surging electricity demands of modern data centers and the decisions that led Iron Mountain to pursue 24x7 carbon-free energy.
John Turner, CEO of XBRL International, and Wes Bricker, vice chair and trust solutions co-leader at PwC US, join Workiva’s Andie Wood to explore the impact of digitization on ESG reporting. Discover how XBRL taxonomies make it easier to share and analyze data and their role in corporate sustainability.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Steve Manocchio, head of global financial compliance and risk management at Cisco, meets with Workiva’s Steve Soter to discuss incorporating climate data into financial disclosures and how assurance, technology, and community advance ESG initiatives.
Anthony Pugliese, president and CEO of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), joins co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss global internal audit standards and their impact on corporate governance, risk management, and ESG reporting. From enhancing collaboration among teams to leveraging technology for audit programs, tune in as they discuss how organizations can adapt to today's dynamic business environment.
To register for IIA’s Sustainability Audit Risk Assurance Virtual Conference on June 20, visit: https://www.theiia.org/en/events/conference/virtual-conferences/esg-virtual-conference/
In this episode, we welcome back to the show Alex Edmans, professor of finance at London Business School and author of May Contain Lies, to discuss data gaps, including ESG metrics, with co-host Andie Wood. They delve into the complexities of data interpretation, the nuances of ESG reporting, and the importance of contextualizing data within a broader narrative for effective communication and decision-making.
Julian Kölbel, assistant professor at the University of St. Gallen and a research affiliate at the MIT Sloan School of Management, joins co-host Mandi McReynolds for a discussion on ESG rating agencies. Listen in as they delve into his research on sustainable investing with a focus on ESG ratings, the disagreement between different rating agencies, and how it affects investors and companies.
For more information on Julian’s work, check out his research: Aggregate Confusion: The Divergence of ESG Ratings.
Miguel Sossa, vice president and sustainability GTM lead for Capgemini Americas, joins co-host Andie Wood to discuss the role supply chains play within ESG. They explore the pragmatic approaches necessary to advance towards a more sustainable world, tackling the urgent need for sustainable supply chains, and the challenge that Scope 3 emissions pose in measuring a company’s carbon footprint.
In this episode of ESG Talk, host Andie Wood looks back on a conversation with Nadja Picard, partner and global reporting leader at PwC Germany. The duo explores how ESG reporting can drive operational change, the advantages of interoperability in standards, and the pivotal roles of CEOs and CFOs in spearheading ESG initiatives.
In this special crossover episode, ESG Talk and Off The Books dive into the long-awaited SEC climate disclosure rule. Jonathan Gregory of The Hershey Company and Alan Wilson of WilmerHale and hosts Steve Soter, Mandi McReynolds, and Andie Wood discuss what the new requirements mean for practitioners, investors, and the future of financial and ESG reporting.
Helle Bank Jorgensen, CEO of Competent Boards, and Paul Washington, executive director of The Conference Board ESG Center, join co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss the pivotal role that boards play in advancing and achieving corporate sustainability objectives. Listen in as they discuss how boards prepare to meet today’s economic, environmental, and social challenges.
Alison Taylor, clinical associate professor at NYU Stern School of Business and author, joins co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss the role of business in society, including stakeholder capitalism, employee engagement, and measuring impact with data and technology. Listen in as they explore how ESG fits within the bigger picture of driving societal progress and achieving long-term value creation for all stakeholders.
Jeannie Renné-Malone, vice president of global sustainability for VF Corporation, and Tim Tensen, chief operating officer for Terra Genesis, join co-host Andie Wood to discuss regenerative agriculture and the transformative potential of their partnership in fueling product innovation and creating a sustainable supply chain. Learn how this initiative is paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future in the apparel and footwear industry.
Mandi McReynolds looks back on her conversation on the value of collaboration in ESG with Noel Kinder, chief sustainability officer at Nike, and Brian Matt, head of ESG advisory at the New York Stock Exchange. Listen in as the trio discusses ESG's role as a catalyst for product innovation, and explores the value of collaboration and how we can learn from each other to address the biggest challenges of our time.
Tensie Whelan, Director of NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business, and Jackie Murphy, former Managing Director of Edelman Purpose & Impact, join co-host Andie Wood to discuss a consumer brand study the two organizations partnered on around sustainability claims, exploring impact and performance across diverse consumer groups. Listen in to learn about the best practices for creating action-backed messages and promoting sustainability effectively.
Katherine Neebe, chief sustainability and philanthropy officer at Duke Energy, joins co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss the company’s commitment to one of the largest clean energy transitions in North America. Mandi and Katherine explore the role of energy companies in ESG, including how to achieve a balanced energy transition while meeting the diverse needs of customers and stakeholders.
Brandon B. Buhler, SVP and chief accounting officer at Playa Hotels & Resorts, and Melanie Glover, partner in PwC’s ESG Trust Solutions practice, join co-host Steve Soter to discuss assurance and integrated reporting. They navigate the nuances of collaborating with a professional services firm and adopting a robust approach to ESG reporting akin to financial reporting.
Cognizant’s head of ESG, Aya Kiy-Morrocco, and Amelia Pan, managing director in the strategic advisory group of PJT Partners, join co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss how sustainability leaders can partner with their C-suite and boards to advance ESG strategy and meet stakeholder demands for transparency, accountability, and action.
Read the 2023 Workiva's Global Practitioner Survey: https://www.workiva.com/resources/2023-global-esg-practitioner-survey
Mandi McReynolds, Steve Soter, Andie Wood, and Ernest Anunciacion are back to kick off the third season of ESG Talk. The group revisits thought-provoking conversations from season two — including insights on sustainability, regulation, and ESG reporting — and shares a preview of what’s to come in the year ahead.
Each week, ESG Talk features candid conversations with business leaders from around the world. Season three explores the connections between people and data that are the foundation of ESG, including partnerships that move sustainability goals forward and best practices in reporting and assurance.
This ESG Talk mini-series highlights two episodes featuring Tensie Whelan, director of the NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business. Part one introduces CSB’s innovative Return on Sustainability Investment—or ROSI—model. In part two, Tensie and Mandi McReynolds are joined by Kelly Fisher, head of corporate sustainability at HSBC Bank USA, and share stories of companies driving financial performance with ESG.
Our second mini-series highlights episodes with Bob Eccles, a leading authority on integrated reporting, and Maher Al-Haffar, the chief financial officer of Cemex. Both guests join co-host Mandi McReynolds to discuss how the roles of the chief sustainability officer and chief financial officer are evolving alongside ESG.
This mini-series combines two of the most popular episodes of the season: “The Future of ESG Reporting,” featuring Allyson Anderson Book, chief sustainability officer at Baker Hughes, and “Reporting Led Transformation,” with Nadja Picard, partner and global reporting leader at PwC Germany. Listen as both guests discuss the dynamic landscape of ESG reporting and its role in sustainable business.
ESG Talk hosts Mandi McReynolds, Steve Soter, Andie Wood, and Ernest Anunciacion come together for the first time in this special season finale. The group discusses key moments that shaped sustainability in 2023 and their predictions for 2024 — including the massive impact of global regulations and generative AI.
Jingdong Hua, vice-chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), and Paul Druckman, chairman of the World Benchmarking Alliance, sit down with Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds to share how standards and benchmarks bring credibility to ESG reporting as well as their insights heading into COP28.
A leading authority on integrated reporting, Robert Eccles joins Mandi McReynolds to explore how the role of the chief sustainability officer is evolving. They discuss the concept of trade-offs and resolving conflicts of interest between stakeholders as well as the deepening connection between finance and ESG.
Dina Trainor, managing director in Deloitte & Touche LLP’s Controllership Practice, joins ESG Talk host Ernest Anunciacion to discuss how companies can build governance, risk, and compliance for ESG reporting. The duo dive into the importance of governance, essential controls, and the roles of internal and external auditors in building a robust reporting program.
In this quick chat, ESG Talk host Andie Wood provides an update on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards — new reporting rules companies will need to follow to comply with the CSRD — and explores their connection to the concept of double materiality.
Steve Manocchio, senior director of financial compliance and operations at Cisco, joins ESG Talk host Steve Soter in a conversation around unifying climate data in financial disclosures. Listen in as they explore the financial impact of ESG, the evolving role of accountants, and how assurance and technology can help further ESG initiatives.
The chief financial officer of Cemex, Maher Al-Haffar, joins Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds to examine how ESG is influencing the office of the CFO. Mandi and Maher discuss the pivotal role of CFOs at the intersection of sustainable finance and its potential impact on business and society.
ESG Talk host Andie Wood discusses the final recommendations of the Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and their connection to the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Join us as Andie unpacks the significance of both guidelines, their strategic timing, and their impact on environmental sustainability and financial transparency.
Keurig Dr Pepper’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Interim Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Monique Oxender, joins ESG Talk host Mandi McReynolds to talk about the intersectionality of ESG and creating synergies within business, governance, and communities. They discuss the importance of connectivity and alignment across departments to ensure long-term impact.
ESG Talk and Off The Books join forces at Amplify! Workiva’s Catherine Tsai interviews Mandi McReynolds, Steve Soter, and conference attendees to explore trends like generative AI and how finance and accounting, ESG, and audit and risk are evolving — together.
Access virtual Amplify sessions here: sm.workiva.com/amplify-podcast
Todd Brady, chief sustainability officer at Intel, joins Mandi McReynolds for the final episode in the ESG Talk Climate Week series. Todd sheds light on Intel's pursuit of net-zero emissions, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency and how technology fosters disclosure and accountability for a more sustainable world.
Watch ESG in the C-Suite here: sm.workiva.com/esg-csuite
Can businesses embrace circularity without compromising profitability? Kurt Ritter, The Coca-Cola Company’s vice president and general manager of sustainability North America, joins Mandi McReynolds in the third episode of the ESG Talk Climate Week series. Mandi and Kurt explore collaboration within the supply chain and integrating sustainability strategies into business outcomes across a global organization.
For the second installment in our Climate Week series, Mandi McReynolds is joined by global experts Eelco van der Enden, CEO of the Global Reporting Initiative, and Anna Nefedova, global ESG reporting leader at Deloitte. They walk us through the various global reporting standards and how they benefit the organizations that use them.
With Climate Week NYC around the corner, there’s no better time to reconnect with Paul Dickinson, Climate Week co-founder, Workiva ESG advisor, and the founder and chair of CDP. Paul joins host Mandi McReynolds to kick off a four week series exploring Climate Week and its impact on corporate sustainability.
Looking for more? Join Workiva for “ESG in the C-Suite,” a free, virtual session at Climate Week on Tuesday, September 19 at 2:00 pm EDT.
Register here: sm.workiva.com/climate-week-2023
In this quick episode of ESG Talk, Mandi McReynolds highlights key findings from Workiva's second ESG practitioner survey, which polled more than 900 professionals involved in ESG reporting across North America, Europe, and Asia. The data underscores the complexity in ESG reporting and reveals a surprising disconnect between managers and executives.
Read the report: workiva.com/2023-ESG-Survey
Register for our LinkedIn Live: sm.workiva.com/linkedin-live
Can ESG reporting transform operations and propel businesses forward? Nadja Picard, partner and global reporting leader at PwC Germany, and Workiva’s Andie Wood discuss reporting-led transformation and its impact on sustainability, uncovering the benefits of interoperability in reporting standards and the roles of CEOs and CFOs in driving ESG initiatives.
Kristina Wyatt, deputy general counsel and chief sustainability officer at Persefoni and former senior counsel at the SEC, joins ESG Talk host Steve Soter to talk about CSRD and its impact on companies outside of the European Union. They discuss the importance of assurance and harmonization in ESG reporting and proactive strategies companies should consider to be set up for success.
AT&T’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Charlene Lake, joins host Mandi McReynolds to discuss how AT&T’s ESG program has matured and evolved from its CSR roots. Discover what AT&T has learned having published 15 sustainability reports in the past 15 years, how data and regulation are shaping the industry/driving change and predictions for what ESG will look like 10 years in the future.
When the sea of data is tamed, ESG reporting turns from overwhelming to opportunity. Maura Hodge, partner and ESG audit leader at KPMG, and Neetha Ravikumar, global director, sustainability partner solutions at Microsoft, join host Mandi McReynolds to discuss common hurdles like manual data collection and varied requirements in global regulation.
Noel Kinder, chief sustainability officer at Nike, and Brian Matt, head of ESG advisory at the New York Stock Exchange, join Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds on the latest episode of ESG Talk. The trio talk about ESG as a catalyst for product innovation and finding value in collaboration and learning from others.
Noel Kinder, chief sustainability officer at Nike, and Brian Matt, head of ESG advisory at the New York Stock Exchange, join Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds on the latest episode of ESG Talk. The trio talk about ESG as a catalyst for product innovation and finding value in collaboration and learning from others.
In the second installment of our CSRD series, Mandi McReynolds is joined by Amelia Pan of PJT Partners, an advisory-focused investment bank, and Diana Tidd, formerly of MSCI and the company's first chief responsibility officer. The group discusses everything from metrics and materiality to integration and data, and how the role of the chief sustainability officer is evolving to meet new demands.
Workiva’s Ernest Anunciacion sits down with Nancy Jordan, vice president of internal audit at Cornerstone Building Brands, and Tom Rams, senior director of SOX and internal audit at 8x8. Tom and Nancy share lessons they’ve learned about ESG and assurance and discuss the importance of breaking down silos to foster the collection of more consistent, accurate data.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, this quick primer from ESG Talk host Mandi McReynolds will help you prepare for your organization’s next internal audit. Listen as she explores best practices for ESG reporting and how auditors and sustainability teams can come together on the pathway to assurance.
This episode of ESG Talk features Chad Reed, vice president of strategic initiatives and ESG at HASI, the first public company to report avoided emissions. Chad shares how his team calculates its “carbon count” metric, the critical role coalitions play in sustainability reporting, and why HASI has doubled down on double materiality.
Honeywell’s chief sustainability officer, Evan Van Hook, and Shelly Kramer, Futurum Research’s principal analyst, join host Mandi McReynolds to discuss the Environmental Sustainability Index (ESI), a quarterly comparison of sentiment and progress on ESG initiatives, and the role technology will play in their success.
Learn more about the ESI: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en/company/sustainability/environmental-sustainability-index
Andie Wood, vice president of regulatory strategy at Workiva, shares a primer on the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive), new ESG regulation adopted by the European Commission impacting thousands of companies worldwide. Andie also explores the context surrounding its adoption and its impact on integrated reporting.
Allyson Anderson Book, chief sustainability officer at Baker Hughes, joins Mandi McReynolds to share how her team has transformed the company’s annual sustainability report and advocated for transparency over perfection. They explore how acknowledging shortcomings, engaging the board, and navigating regulatory change contribute to ESG.
Join host Mandi McReynolds as she describes Workiva’s approach to ESG ratings and rankers, how to identify which matter the most to your organization, and the benefits of communicating progress against ESG goals on an ongoing basis.
Erin Bigley, chief responsibility officer at AllianceBernstein, pulls back the curtain on transparency and decision making in asset management. Erin and Mandi McReynolds, Workiva's vice president of global ESG, discuss the realities of corporate greenwashing, measuring and managing social risks, and more.
Matthew Sekol, ESG and sustainability advocate at Microsoft, joins Mandi McReynolds on the latest episode of ESG Talk. Sekol explains why he believes understanding stakeholders is a critical component of the “G” and why governance is too often overlooked in the world of ESG.
Resources:
ESG Advocate Newsletter: https://esgadvocate.substack.com/
Mandi McReynolds looks back on her discussion with Jared Forman, managing partner of ESG and climate risk at FORVIS. The two discuss risk management and ESG, including scenario analysis and how Workiva benefited from a FORVIS risk scenario workshop in this episode of ESG Talk.
Resources:
FORVIS ESG & Climate Risk - https://www.forvis.com/services/esg-climate-risk
Tensie Whelan, director of the NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business, returns to ESG Talk. Tensie is joined by Kelly Fisher, head of corporate sustainability at HSBC Bank USA, alongside Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds. The group shares case studies showcasing how companies are driving financial performance with sustainable investments and urges business leaders to reconsider how they measure ESG’s ROI.
In the latest episode of ESG Talk, guest host Ernest Anunciacion shares how companies can build assurance into ESG reporting. A certified internal auditor, Ernest emphasizes the critical role GRC (governance, risk, and compliance) will play in complying with ESG regulation, including climate disclosure rules coming from the SEC.
In the latest episode of ESG Talk, guest host Ernest Anunciacion shares how companies can build assurance into ESG reporting. A certified internal auditor, Ernest emphasizes the critical role GRC (governance, risk, and compliance) will play in complying with ESG regulation, including climate disclosure rules coming from the SEC.
Host Mandi McReynolds shares insights from Reuters’ flagship event, Responsible Business USA 2023, where she moderated a panel on collecting audit-ready ESG data. Mandi shares key takeaways from her time in New York, including using technology to balance business and societal impact and aligning ESG and financial statements.
Previous ESG Talk episodes on SEC regulation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4D4YjU7MUE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHcLVwXUL_4
Alex Edmans, finance professor at London Business School and leading expert on sustainable finance, joins Mandi McReynolds, vice president of ESG at Workiva. Alex and Mandi discuss sustainability and long-term value creation, including the importance and limitations of data and executive compensation.
In this episode of ESG Talk, David Kanarek, vice president and managing counsel at American Express, joins Workiva’s Mark Mellen and Steve Soter to discuss the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal. Mark and Steve predict what will make it into the final ruling while David shares how his finance and sustainability teams are preparing for the new regulation.
Denise Vaughn, vice president of ESG at Ferguson Enterprises, and Christopher Lindsay, vice president of government relations for the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials, join Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds. They explore the business and societal risks associated with water, how their organizations are coming together to address the water crisis in the United States, and the importance of pilots, process, and partnership for driving ESG strategy.
Denise Roberson, chief purpose officer at TBWA\Chiat\Day, joins Mandi McReynolds, Workiva’s head of global ESG, this week on ESG Talk. Denise and Mandi discuss what Mandi has coined the value versus values debate in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and how ESG reporting is accelerating corporate transparency.
Alicia Petross, chief diversity officer at The Hershey Company, joins Workiva’s Steve Soter in the latest episode of ESG Talk. Alicia and Steve discuss the labor shortage, how ESG reporting has evolved, and the connection between DEI and HCM.
In this episode of ESG Talk, Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds is joined by Mark Horoszowski, co-founder and CEO of MovingWorlds. Mark and Mandi discuss how having a shared language around ESG will move business forward and finding common ground between business leaders, investors, and consumers.
In this week's episode of ESG Talk, host Mandi McReynolds shares her top three takeaways from GreenBiz 23—including data driven decision making and automation for ESG reporting.
In this week’s episode of ESG Talk, Workiva’s resident accounting and regulatory reporting expert, Steve Soter, stops by to share his predictions for the SEC’s climate disclosure proposal, human capital management, and the future of ESG and financial reporting.
Consultants Harry Etra, chief executive officer of HXE Partners, and Peylina Chu, senior vice president of ESG Business Strategy at Antea Group, join Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds to explore what it takes to launch a successful ESG program—including team building, goal setting, and learning from failure.
This week on ESG Talk, we’re reaching back into the vault to share one of our most popular episodes from season one. Si-Yeon Kim, former chief risk and compliance officer and executive chair of ESG at American Express Global Business Travel, joins host Mandi McReynolds to share how her team transformed sustainability challenges into business opportunity.
Global accounting expert Paul Druckman joins Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds on the latest episode of ESG Talk. Mandi and Paul discuss sustainability, accountability, and why it might be time to rethink the title “CFO.”
In this episode of ESG Talk, host Mandi McReynolds is joined by Jennifer Hunter, senior vice president of corporate citizenship and chief sustainability officer at Altria, one of the world's largest producers of cigarettes and tobacco. Jennifer shares how her team balances corporate responsibility and the harm associated with Altria’s products —including advocating to increase the legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21.
To kick off our second season of ESG Talk, host Mandi McReynolds introduces our theme for the year—perspective and the diversity of thought shaping the discourse around ESG. According to Mandi, a new perspective can be an obstacle or an opportunity. Which one will you choose?
We’re taking a look back on some of our favorite moments from season one of ESG Talk. In this highlight reel, we bring together insights and advice from Fortune 500 executives and consultants to authors, reporters, and leading academics. In season two, we’re bringing you more diverse perspectives to help simplify ESG and accelerate its impact on business and society.
In this short chat, ESG Talk host Mandi McReynolds shares part of an executive presentation she gave exploring dynamic materiality. Mandi describes practical ways companies can align stakeholder engagement with dynamic materiality as well as how ESG leaders are using technology to drive both forward in 2023.
Resources:
1) The Chat: Challenges and Opportunities in ESG Reporting - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/esg-talk/id1622905439?i=1000568095872
2) Gaining Trust in Your ESG Data Is a Material Issue - https://www.workiva.com/blog/gaining-trust-your-esg-data-material-issue-0
In this regulatory wrap up from ESG Talk, host Mandi McReynolds is joined by her Workiva colleagues, Andromeda Wood, Vice President of Regulatory Strategy, and Steve Soter, Senior Industry Principal. Andie and Steve share their takes on ESG regulation in the EU and US, including CSRD and recent developments by the SEC.
Resources:
1) Andromeda Wood, CSRD Debrief - https://www.workiva.com/blog/csrd-debrief-whos-impacted-and-how-prepare
2) Steve Soter, podcast co-host Off the Books https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-books/id1505814699
3) COP27 and What’s Next for ESG ft. Paul Dickinson, CDP - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/esg-talk/id1622905439?i=1000588129567
4) The ROI of Sustainability ft. Tensie Whelan, NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/esg-talk/id1622905439?i=1000585631997
Bhushan Sethi, Joint Global Leader of People and Organization at PwC and Adjunct Professor at NYU Stern’s School of Business, joins Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds on this week’s episode of ESG Talk. Mandi and Bhushan explore building a strategy for human capital management during an economic downturn, including how transparency can breed trust and empowering employees with "voice and choice."
Resources:
1) PwC Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2022 - https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/news-room/press-releases/2022/global-workforce-hopes-and-fears-survey-2022.html
2) CNN Interview: “Voice and Choice” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAn1PJ3h7E0
3) PwC Pulse Survey: Managing business risks - https://www.pwc.com/us/en/library/pulse-survey/managing-business-risks.html
4) CeFPro Survey: ESG State of Play: Banks' Compliance and Automated Reporting Trends - https://www.cefpro.com/esg-state-of-play-report/
5) PwC Workforce Transformation - https://www.pwc.com/us/en/services/consulting/business-transformation/workforce-transformation.html
This week, host Mandi McReynolds is joined by Paul Dickinson, founder and chair of CDP, the not-for-profit organization that runs the global environmental disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states, and regions. Paul and Mandi discuss announcements from COP27, the importance of data, and what lies ahead for ESG.
Resources:
1) Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Proposed Rule - https://www.sustainability.gov/federalsustainabilityplan/fed-supplier-rule.html
2) CDP questionnaire to add ISSB’s climate disclosure standard - https://www.corporatesecretary.com/articles/esg/33225/cdp-questionnaire-add-issb%E2%80%99s-climate-disclosure-standard
3) The Chat: Questions Emerge at COP27 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/esg-talk/id1622905439?i=1000586406377
4) Shaping the Global Climate Transition for All ft. Simon Mundy - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/esg-talk/id1622905439?i=1000578677697
This week, we’re taking a moment to thank our ESG Talk audience and guests for an incredible first season. As a token of our appreciation, host Mandi McReynolds invites viewers and listeners to join the ESG Pro Group community, a free networking group for professionals involved in ESG.
Resources:
1) ESG Pro Group - https://www.progroups.org/about-us/about-us/esgprogroup-about-us
COP27 is underway. In this quick chat, ESG Talk host Mandi McReynolds reflects on President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s opening remarks and asks business leaders to pause and reflect on the difficult questions that will determine our impact on business and society. Stay tuned for a follow up episode featuring CDP Chairman Paul Dickinson that will explore reflections from the remainder of COP27 and what’s to come in the year ahead.
Resources:
1) COP27 - https://cop27.eg/#/
2)President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi Opening Speech - https://www.sis.gov.eg/Story/172566/President-El-Sisi's-Speech-at-the-Opening-Session-of-COP-27?lang=en-us
In the latest episode of ESG Talk, host Mandi McReynolds is joined by Tensie Whelan, Clinical Professor of Business and Society and the director of the NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business. Tensie shares examples of companies that have achieved a significant return on investment from sustainability initiatives as well as the concept of cost avoidance and importance of setting the right ESG KPIs for your organization.
Resources:
1) NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business Return on Sustainability Investment (ROSI™) - https://www.stern.nyu.edu/experience-stern/about/departments-centers-initiatives/centers-of-research/center-sustainable-business/research/return-sustainability-investment-rosi
2) Harvard Business Review: ESG Reports Aren’t a Replacement for Real Sustainability - https://hbr.org/2022/07/esg-reports-arent-a-replacement-for-real-sustainability
3) NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business - https://www.stern.nyu.edu/sustainability
This week, host Mandi McReynolds is joined by Peter Land, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Peter shares how a large consumer brand took a stand to advocate for youth sports and gun reform. They discuss the risks, opportunities, and costs of public accountability for brands.
Resources:
1) DICK’S Sporting Goods 2021 Purpose Playbook - https://investors.dicks.com/news/sideline-report/blog-story-details/2022/A-TEAM-EFFORT-INTRODUCING-THE-2021-PURPOSE-PLAYBOOK/default.aspx
2) DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation Sports Matter program - https://www.sportsmatter.org/
3) Sandy Hook Promise - https://www.sandyhookpromise.org/
Barjouth Aguilar, Head of Global Sustainability at Flex, joins Workiva’s Mandi McReynolds on this week’s episode of ESG Talk. Learn how Flex has embedded sustainability into its supply chain and manufacturing operations, embraced sustainable finance, and localized ESG strategy in more than 100 facilities across the globe.
Resources:
1) Flex - Our Sustainability - https://flex.com/company/our-sustainability
2) Flex Foundation - https://flex.com/company/our-sustainability/flex-foundation
3) McKinsey & Company - https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/building-sustainability-into-operations
This week, host Mandi McReynolds is joined by Beth Wood, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Principal Financial Group® and the chair of the Principal ESG Task Force. In recognition of National Women's Small Business Month, Beth shares how her experience running a small business prepared her to drive ESG strategy for a Fortune 500 company and describes the innovative Principal® Global Financial Inclusion Index.
Resources:
1) Principal Financial Group ESG Strategy - https://www.principal.com/sustainability/esg-strategy
2) Global Financial Inclusion Index - https://www.principal.com/financial-inclusion
3) Edelman Trust Barometer - https://www.edelman.com/trust/2022-trust-barometer
We’re chatting about how startups and small to midsize enterprises play a critical role in our global economy and how they can engage in ESG moving forward. Host Mandi McReynolds shares three fundamental principles for startups and SMEs to consider when implementing ESG into their business strategy.
Resources:
1) World Economic Forum article - https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/09/what-start-ups-think-about-esg-and-why-it-matters/
2) UN Global Compact participants - https://www.unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/participants
3) UN Global Compact resources - https://www.unglobalcompact.org/take-action/leadership
4) Kevin O’Leary on ESG: Straight Talk from Mr. Wonderful - https://www.workiva.com/blog/kevin-oleary-esg-straight-talk-mr-wonderful
Tune into our chat with George Serafeim, Charles M. Williams Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School and author of Purpose + Profit. He and host Mandi McReynolds discuss the humanistic element of ESG, why corporate purpose and ESG issues have become more important over time due to transparency and technology, and practical tips to drive purpose and profit forward.
Resources:
1) Purpose and Profit - https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Profit-Business-Lift-World/dp/1400230357/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
2) Harvard Business School Profile - https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/profile.aspx?facId=15705
We’re joined this week by the Workiva Off The Books podcast team, Steve Soter, Senior Industry Principal, and Catherine Tsai, Senior Content Marketing Specialist, to discuss all things Amplify. Amplify is Workiva’s annual user conference bringing together the top minds in financial reporting, ESG, and risk. Host Mandi McReynolds discusses this year’s theme “All In” and the event’s top takeaways including SEC proposals, tackling ESG, automation, and innovation.
Resources:
1) Amplify - https://www.workiva.com/amplify
2) Off The Books Podcast - https://www.workiva.com/off-the-books-podcast
This is an illuminating conversation between Shivaram Rajgopal, Kester and Byrnes Professor at Columbia Business School, and host Mandi McReynolds. Listen as they discuss his pragmatic approach to ESG as illustrated in his three-part Forbes article series ESG – A Defense, A Critique, And A Way Forward: An Evidence-Driven Pragmatic Perspective.
Resources:
1) ESG – A Defense, A Critique, And A Way Forward: An Evidence-Driven Pragmatic Perspective - https://www.forbes.com/sites/shivaramrajgopal/2022/08/21/esg--a-defense-a-critique-and-a-way-forward-an-evidence-driven-pragmatic-perspective/
2) ESG – A Defense, A Critique (part 2), And A Way Forward: An Evidence-Driven Pragmatic Perspective - https://www.forbes.com/sites/shivaramrajgopal/2022/08/28/esg--a-defense-a-critique-part-2-now-and-a-way-forward-an-evidence-driven-pragmatic-perspective/
3) ESG – A Defense, A Critique, And A Way Forward (part 3): Evidence-Driven Pragmatic Perspective - https://www.forbes.com/sites/shivaramrajgopal/2022/09/01/esg--a-defense-a-critique-and-a-way-forward-part-3-now-evidence-driven-pragmatic-perspective/
4) Website - https://www.shivarajgopal.com/
The focus of our chat today is acronyms. Every business has acronyms. The ESG acronym soup can be overwhelming and confusing, but do not let that deflect from your determination to learn. We need a common understanding of key terms to help each other drive business value and society forward.
Resources:
1) ESG Decoded Podcast - https://climeco.com/esg-decoded-podcast/
2) Sustainability Decoded Podcast - https://link.chtbl.com/SustainabilityDecoded-McReynolds
Join our author chat with Simon Mundy, Moral Money editor at the Financial Times and author of Race for Tomorrow: Survival, Innovation and Profit on the Front Lines of the Climate Crisis. He and host Mandi McReynolds discuss takeaways from his journey in 26 countries covering the biggest story of the century and how we move forward as a global society to address climate transition.
Resources:
1) Race for Tomorrow - https://www.simonmundy.com/book
2) Financial Times Moral Money - https://www.ft.com/moral-money
3) Simon Mundy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/SimonMundy
4) Website - https://www.simonmundy.com/
Join the conversation with Jared Forman, Managing Partner, ESG & Climate Risk at FORVIS, as he and host Mandi McReynolds discuss managing risk, board engagement on ESG, and insights from Workiva's participation in the FORVIS risk scenario workshop.
Resources:
1) FORVIS ESG & Climate Risk - https://www.forvis.com/services/esg-climate-risk
2) Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) - https://www.garp.org/
3) ESG Today - https://www.esgtoday.com/
Join the conversation with Si-Yeon Kim, former EVP, Chief Risk & Compliance Officer, and Executive Chair of ESG at American Express Global Business Travel (2014 to 2022), as she and host Mandi McReynolds discuss finding your ESG superpower and how businesses can work together in an ecosystem to tackle complex topics such as scope 3 emissions, travel, and other elements of your ESG strategy.
Resources:
1) LinkedIn Poll on Sustainable Business Travel - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mandimcreynolds_esgtalk-esg-sustainability-activity-6961001859696259072-M2kt/
2) Antea Group: Engaging Supply Chain on Scope 3 for Strategic Advantage - https://us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/engaging-supply-chain-on-scope-3-for-strategic-advantage
3) Antea Group:10 Ways Your Business Can Reduce Its Carbon Footprint - https://us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/10-ways-business-reduce-carbon-footprint
Join the conversation with Lotti Hawkins, Executive Search - Sustainable Investing, ESG & Impact for Private Markets at Farrell Associates, as she and host Mandi McReynolds discuss building ESG talent, focusing on ESG strategy and transferable skills, and the rise of ESG in the C-suite.
Resources:
1) Farrell Associate’s Talent Roots Project - https://www.farrellassociates.com/our-impact
2) LinkedIn Article: Please can we collectively stop saying there is an ‘ESG Talent War’? - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/please-can-we-collectively-stop-saying-esg-talent-war-lotti-hawkins/
3) ESG Meme - https://twitter.com/followalisont/status/1362994652396335118
4) PwC study on CSOs - https://www.reuters.com/business/sustainable-business/number-company-sustainability-officers-triples-2021-study-2022-05-04/
Join our first author chat with Andrea Bonime-Blanc, founder and CEO at GEC Risk Advisory and author of Gloom to Boom: How Leaders Transform Risk Into Resilience and Value. She and host Mandi McReynolds discuss the importance of technology in ESG, interconnected ESG risks and opportunities, and the value of empathy in leadership.
Resources:
1) ESGT Megatrends Manual 2022-2023 Edition - https://issuu.com/medauras/docs/esgt_megatrends_report_2022-2023
2) Gloom to Boom: How Leaders Transform Risk Into Resilience and Value - https://gecrisk.com/gloom-to-boom/
3) ESG Plus T: Tech as ESG Issue, Risk, and Value Influencer - https://www.diplomaticourier.com/posts/esg-plus-t-tech-as-esg-issue-risk-and-value-influencer
4) Harvard Business Review: The C-Suite Skills That Matter Most - https://hbr.org/2022/07/the-c-suite-skills-that-matter-most
Join the conversation as we chat about how to deal with ESG challengers. Our inboxes are inundated with hot takes on ESG pushback or backlash, from politicians and their views on pension funds to looking at how companies are involved with ESG funds. We're putting this into context and simplifying it for all of us. Forget about all the hype, turn off all the noise, and stay focused on adding value to business and society.
Resources:
1) I’m an ESG professional and I applaud dissent from Elon Musk and SEC Commissioner Peirce - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/im-esg-professional-i-applaud-dissent-from-elon-musk-sec-mcreynolds/
Join the conversation with Sarah Chapman, Global Chief Sustainability Officer at Manulife, as she and host Mandi McReynolds discuss how business can drive stronger accountability for both financial and social impact. They share examples of how ESG is a team sport, strong company governance structure, and predict what will be top of mind for ESG in five years.
Resources:
1) Manulife Impact Agenda - https://www.manulife.com/content/dam/corporate/global/en/documents/pas/MFC_impact_agenda_2022_en.pdf
2) Manulife Investment Management Timberland and Agriculture - https://www.manulifeim.com/timberland-agriculture/global/en
3) Manulife - https://www.manulife.com/en/about/sustainability.html
4) 2021 Manulife Environmental, Social and Governance Report - https://www.manulife.com/content/dam/corporate/global/en/documents/pas/MFC_ESGR_2022_EN.pdf/
Join the conversation with Rob Fisher, IMPACT and ESG Leader, KPMG US, as he and host Mandi McReynolds discuss the legacy and impact of ESG, the 2020 KPMG Survey of Sustainability Reporting, and stakeholder engagement and trust.
Resources:
1) KPMG IMPACT - https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2021/12/kpmg-impact-and-esg.html
2) The Trusted Imperative - https://home.kpmg/content/dam/kpmg/xx/pdf/2022/01/trusted-imperative-whitepaper.pdf
3) The KPMG Survey of Sustainability Reporting 2020 - https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/11/the-time-has-come-survey-of-sustainability-reporting.html
4) 2022 Global Leaders in Consulting: Rob Fisher - https://www.consultingmag.com/2022/02/20/2022-global-leaders-in-consulting-rob-fisher/
Today we're chatting about the Workiva ESG Reporting Global Insights 2022 report that was just released. We dive into the survey results and share how 1,300 ESG practitioners are tackling the challenges and opportunities around ESG reporting.
Findings show 72% of senior decision makers say they lack confidence in the ESG data currently being reported to their stakeholders. This may at first seem concerning, but the findings also revealed that the continued commitment to ESG transparency has already translated into positive business outcomes, including recruitment, cost savings, investor/stakeholder engagement, and risk reduction.
Resources:
1) 2022 Global ESG Survey: Top Opportunities and Challenges of ESG Reporting - https://www.workiva.com/resources/global-survey-reports-esg
2) Full Survey Report: ESG Reporting Global Insights 2022 - https://www.workiva.com/sites/workiva/files/pdfs/esg_reporting_global_insights_full_report-en.pdf
3) ESG Practitioners Detail Top Reporting Challenges and Opportunities - https://newsroom.workiva.com/News-Archive/News-Details/2022/ESG-Practitioners-Detail-Top-Reporting-Challenges-and-Opportunities/
Tune into the latest episode of ESG Talk with Dan Lambeth, Brunswick Partner in London. He has over 20 years’ experience in government and the financial services industry: J.P. Morgan, where he led the firm’s sustainability agenda in Europe, Head of Regulatory Policy and Communication at the Royal Bank of Scotland, and held senior roles at the London Stock Exchange and H.M. Treasury. Dan and host Mandi McReynolds share executive notes on the 2022 Annual General Meeting season and World Economic Forum. They dive into how ESG through capitalism drives societal value and provide practical takeaways for companies as they prepare for AGM season.
Resources:
1) ESG During the 2022 AGM Season - https://corpgov.law.harvard.edu/2022/05/05/esg-during-the-2022-agm-season/
2) World Economic Forum - https://www.weforum.org/
Welcome to The Chat. To help us keep up with the fast pace of ESG news, research, and authors, we're having quick 5-10 minute coversations about hot topics and giving you information to make practical simple decisions for your business.
On this episode of The Chat, we're diving into insights from the recent CeFPro Risk Americas conference. We're also discussing recent CeFPro and Workiva research titled "ESG State of Play: Banks' Compliance and Automated Reporting Trends."
Please feel free to share your thoughts with us at ESG talk on Twitter, or on LinkedIn. We'd love to answer any questions you may have about the research or dive in more to what you want to know for the next chat.
Resources:
1) ESG State of Play: Banks' Compliance and Automated Reporting Trends - https://www.cefpro.com/esg-state-of-play-report/
2) CeFPro Risk Americas 2022 - https://www.cefpro.com/forthcoming-events/risk-americas/
Join the conversation with our first guest on ESG Talk: Tim Mohin, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Persefoni. Tim draws from his experience working with the "E" (environmental) in ESG, while host Mandi McReynolds started with the "S" (social). Both now working on ESG for their own companies, for customers, and with innovation. In this episode of ESG Talk, the pair have a conversation about Tim's journey working in the field: the past, present, and future.
Resources:
1) 2022 LinkedIn Top Voices in the Green Economy - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-top-voices-green-economy-15-creators-follow-us-/?trackingId=t6qqRcT0SkKFatb6C7maQQ%3D%3D
2) ESG and Climate News - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6773642479246831618/
3) Changing Business from the Inside Out: A Treehugger's Guide to Working in Corporations - https://www.amazon.com/Changing-Business-Inside-Out-Corporations/dp/1609946405
4) LinkedIn Poll - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mandimcreynolds_esgtalk-sustainability-esg-activity-6930551184088784896-d8vG?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web
5) Harvard Business Review 'Does Your Company Need a Chief ESG Officer?' - https://hbr.org/2022/02/does-your-company-need-a-chief-esg-officer
6) Forbes 'The 10 Traits of Great Innovators' - https://www.forbes.com/sites/rebeccabagley/2014/01/15/the-10-traits-of-great-innovators/?sh=286144234bf4
Welcome to the coversation. In the first episode of ESG Talk, we dive into the development of the ESG Talk podcast: The conversations that shape us in the field and four powerful ESG business drivers happening NOW. Let's talk. Let's listen. This is your ESG Talk podcast and discussion. Like the great educator and international leadership expert Linda Lambert once said: “One great conversation can shift the direction of change forever.” Working together to drive ESG business and societal impact, we can shape a better world for all.
Resources:
1) Turning to One Another - Margaret J Wheatly https://margaretwheatley.com/books-products/books/turning-one-another/
2) Investors Demand ESG Data They Can Trust: Survey Results https://www.workiva.com/resources/investors-demand-esg-data-they-can-trust-survey-results
3) What is the #1 Business Value Driver for ESG in 2022? Linkedin Poll https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mandimcreynolds_sustainability-esgstrategy-esg-activity-6914319328553099264-ZHJM?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web
Welcome to our podcast ESG Talk. Every month we'll be having candid conversations with Environment, Social and Governance leaders on how to transform complex ESG issues into simple practical opportunities for both business and society. Tune in this season as we pull back the curtain and have conversations with global policymakers, the investment community, thought leaders, and those of us on the ground trying to tackle this real work. This is your podcast and your platform for a discussion. Subscribe to ESG Talk wherever you get your podcasts, follow and send in your questions at @ESGTalk on Twitter or connect on LinkedIn with me, Mandi McReynolds.