Reimagining Business: The American Dream and Corporate Responsibility

Introduction to the Reimagined Business Speaker Series

Welcome to our very first reimagined business speaker series, where we delve into the changing landscape of American business and its implications for workers. Our host, Abigail Disney, introduces us to the concept through her film, The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales, which examines the dramatic shifts in business practices over the last century and their impact on American workers.

The Evolution of the American Dream

Abigail Disney and co-director Kathleen Hughes created a film that shines a light on the changing nature of American business. The film explores how the assumptions about what business is for have shifted, especially concerning the well-being of American workers. The discussion begins with a trailer of the film, setting the stage for an in-depth conversation about reimagining business.

Guest Insights on Corporate Responsibility

Jorge Fontanez: Advocating for B Corps

Jorge Fontanez, the lead executive at B Lab USA and Canada, shares his journey and the importance of B Corps in today's business landscape. B Corps are for-profit companies certified for meeting high standards of social and environmental impact, demonstrating that purpose and profit can coexist. With over 6,000 B Corps globally, there's a growing demand for businesses that prioritize the impact on people and the planet alongside their financial goals.

Sam Miller: Reflecting on Disney's Past

Sam Miller, who started working at Disneyland in 1970, offers a personal account of how business attitudes towards workers have changed over the years. She recalls a time when employees were deeply valued and considered an integral part of creating magic for guests. This contrasts sharply with today's focus on profitability and shareholder value, often at the expense of worker well-being.

Redefining Success in Business

The conversation explores the concept of shareholder primacy and its alternatives. By broadening the focus to include stakeholders like workers, communities, and the environment, businesses can create more sustainable and equitable models of success. The B Corp movement exemplifies this shift, encouraging companies to consider their broader impact and work towards positive change.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

The discussion acknowledges the challenges faced by workers and the role of unions in advocating for their rights. It also highlights the potential for businesses, including large corporations, to adopt more responsible practices. Examples like Grayston Bakery and The Body Shop show how innovative hiring practices can benefit both workers and companies, challenging traditional narratives about the relationship between profitability and corporate responsibility.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we reimagine the future of business, it's clear that change is possible. By embracing a more inclusive and sustainable approach, companies can contribute to a more equitable society. The reimagined business speaker series invites everyone to join the conversation and support efforts to create a better future for workers and communities alike.

For more details and to watch the film, visit American Dream and Other Fairy Tales.