Motivation Mondays: Climate Change and Corporate Strategy: A Deep Dive with Dr. Bruce Piasecki, Founder of AHC Group

Breakfast Leadership Show

Dr. Bruce Piasecki is the president and founder of AHC Group, Inc., a management consulting firm specializing in energy, materials, and environmental corporate matters. Its clients range from Suncor Energy and the Warren Buffett firm Shaw Industries to Walgreens Boots Alliance and BP to Toyota and other global companies.

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Piasecki's influence extends beyond his consulting work. He is the author of several groundbreaking books on business strategy, valuation, and corporate change. His works, including the Nature Society’s book of the year, 'In Search of Environmental Excellence: Moving Beyond Blame, 'and the recent New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestseller 'Doing More With Less, 'have shaped the way businesses approach these areas.

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Since 1981, he has advised companies about the critical areas of corporate governance, energy, environmental strategy, product innovation, and sustainability.

Scott Meredith Literary Agency advises AHC Group and Bruce Piasecki on publishing matters.

Summary Global Issues and Organizational Changes Discussed Michael and Bruce had a discussion about current global issues and organizational changes over the past four decades. Bruce, a social historian, shared that his firm was hired by numerous global companies to manage change and deal with new issues. He also mentioned that in 1980, his book "Beyond Dumping" influenced Congress's attitude towards hazardous waste. They also discussed the top two global worries identified by Bruce's firm: conflicts and climate change. War and Climate Change: Managing the Intersection Effectively Bruce and Michael discussed the relationship between war and climate change, with a focus on how to manage this intersection effectively. Bruce, who has written extensively about this topic, emphasized the need for change management and leadership to address these issues. He also highlighted how climate change can cause migration stress and shared success stories of companies like Merck that have made positive environmental impacts. Michael agreed with Bruce's perspective and expressed interest in learning more about this connection between war and climate change. Business-Society Intersection and Sweet Spot Bruce and Michael discussed the intersection of business and society, highlighting a new approach that maximizes both financial and social returns. Bruce introduced the concept of the "sweet spot" where business interests and social interests meet, resulting in innovation, cost savings, revenue growth, risk reduction, brand strengthening, and improved social relationships. They also noted the benefits of attracting and retaining talent by focusing on this sweet spot. Furthermore, they emphasized the importance of purpose in today's generation and how it can lead to fulfillment and satisfaction in their work. Embracing Diverse Perspectives for Social Impact Bruce shared his pride in his daughter's career as a doctor in rehabilitation, emphasizing her dedication to societal and environmental issues. He attributed her awareness to the global community and its challenges to her medical education, which exposed her to diverse perspectives. Michael concurred, highlighting the importance of an open and curious approach to problem-solving. Both underscored the need for a collaborative and socially conscious mindset in their respective fields. Creative Force, Foundation, and Redistribution Bruce discussed the concept of a 'creative force' as opposed to a 'selfish competitive force,' which he attributed to his work and personal philosophy. He mentioned the establishment of a foundation with his wife, which awards young writers on business and society. Bruce also talked about his upcoming book, 'Wealth and Climate Competitiveness,' in which he explores the concept of Robin Hood and the redistribution of wealth. Michael agreed with Bruce's ideas and emphasized the importance of social good and efficiency in organizations, stating that the two could coexist and even enhance profitability. Breakfast Leadership Network and Resilience Discussion Bruce and Michael discussed the Breakfast Leadership Network, which Michael founded 18 years ago to address burnout among executives. Michael shared his personal experience with burnout and his mission to raise awareness about preventing it. Bruce offered to send Michael some of his books to further educate him on the topic. They also discussed the importance of resilience and innovation in businesses, with Bruce sharing examples of successful companies that have implemented these principles. Michael agreed to email Bruce his contact information for future discussions.