Business and Society Program

How and where might executives best deploy their influence to address polarization and embrace democracy?

What makes for truly effective, trustworthy business leadership in today’s complex environment? Judy Samuelson, the Executive Director of the Business & Society Program, joins other Aspen leaders for an “In Session” interview.

The votes are in; in New York City, we have elected a Democratic Socialist to lead from the heart and soul of Capitalism.

Judy Samuelson reflects on how investment in cities, infrastructure, and energy shapes America’s economy.

Judy Samuelson shares what she’s learned from Chief Sustainability Officers during NY Climate Week.

The public wants business to lead, but corporate leaders are hesitant to speak about democratic institutions, freedoms, and norms.

How do we lead in an age of polarization? How do we sustain momentum on climate, equity, and inclusion under political pressure?

Massive changes — in law, tariffs and trade, the workplace, climate, and revolutionary technology like AI — exhaust even the most seasoned executives’ knowledge and experience. This town-hall session at the 2025 Aspen Ideas Festival invited the audience to share perspectives and ask how we can avoid paralysis in the face of such uncertainty.

Judy Samuelson shares three things that are clearer to her after the 2025 Business & Society Summit.

Judy Samuelson reflects on the growing silence of business executives on social, environmental, and political issues.