I always keep up with the latest news from the C-suite, as the vast majority of our clients and candidates are board members or active executives. It was disheartening to hear the recent news surrounding Evolve and Summa Health. Though AI and tariffs have dominated much of the discussion in our circles, we’re also talking about how tried-and-true leadership fundamentals remain irreplaceable

Starbucks is downsizing, and we couldn't help wondering, if Niccol is taking a page from OG Alan Mulally's playbook,

as we move into uncharted territory, CEOs should remember the traits that AI cannot replace—traits that are crucial when framing the need to reduce a workforce. These aren't just headcounts; they are human beings with families, financial responsibilities, and most importantly, feelings.

We join the business world in mourning the passing of Titan Fred Smith, the Founder of FedEx. In 1973, the company was founded  with 389 employees and 14 planes, and pioneered the hub and spoke model still in use. 705 aircraft, 200,000 vehicles and over 500,000 employees later, the company handles 17 million shipments daily. Smith was a stellar human outside of the boardroom as well and was awarded a medal for bravery during the Vietnam War. Most describe Fred Smith as a