Shows
Power ShiftsCheeky Half: Carney visits the White House, UK signs a big trade dealAfter losing a chunk of our life to technical issues trying to interview our Australian colleagues, we gave up and came at you with a cheeky half from a suspicious hotel room. We cover:1. Carney White House Visit2. UK/India Trade Deal3. UK Local ElectionsAnd on tap, we enjoy a Boréale IPA du Nord-Est with Krush Hops2025-05-0713 minPower ShiftsThe 42% Ceiling, Urban Conservatism, and What Carney Inherits Next with Sean SpeerIn this deep-dive episode, we welcome The Hub’s Sean Speer for a sweeping post-election conversation that looks well beyond the seat count. Together, we unpack what the results signal about Canada’s shifting political map—and the governing challenges that come next.We cover:Why Canada may be settling into a two-party system—and what that means for the NDP and voter coalitionsThe trap of 42%: Why Conservatives need to stop relying on vote splits and start expanding their baseIs tone the final frontier? W...2025-05-0141 min
Power ShiftsCheeky Half: Post-Election DebriefAndrew and Joseph unpack the early takeaways from Canada’s federal vote—before the full dust settles. With Dead Frog and Backcountry brews in hand, we reflect on what just happened, what didn’t happen, and what we got wrong.We tackle:Why the Liberals’ minority win is both change and more of the sameHow early voting and older demographics gave the Liberals their edgeThe collapse of the NDP and the myth of a youthquakeThe case for Pierre Poilievre staying on—and the case againstWhy Conservatives can’t afford to overcorrect… or under-learnWhether we’re already on the clock for...2025-04-3040 minPower ShiftsWhat This Campaign Already Tells Us About the Next Four YearsThe 2025 federal election isn’t even over yet—and already, the next political era is taking shape.In today’s episode of Power Shifts, I share eight key observations about how this campaign has reshaped Canada’s political terrain.These aren’t predictions. They’re the deeper dynamics already at work—forces that will define the next four years, no matter who wins.We cover: • Why the 2025 campaign became a referendum on leadership, not policy • How “change without chaos” became the ballot question • The shifting fault lines for the Conservative coalition • What the NDP’s collapse really signals about future influence • Why early...2025-04-2511 minPower ShiftsElection Vibes, Voter Turnout & the BC Battleground with Mike McDonaldWe sit down with veteran strategist Mike McDonald for a sharp, beer-fueled breakdown of the federal campaign—with a special focus on British Columbia.We start with a big-picture analysis of the national race: Is this election a true battle of leadership vibes? Has Mark Carney neutralized the ideological contrast with Poilievre by simply being less of a liability? And why does the rise in advance polling numbers say more about convenience than political momentum?We then dig into the courts’ growing role in settling cultural debates, using the UK’s recent ruling on gender and sex...2025-04-2349 minPower ShiftsI deconstruct two political attack adsI deconstruct attack ads from the Conservative and Liberal parties in Canada, analyzing their strategies, emotional triggers, and the effectiveness of their messaging. 2025-04-1321 minPower Shifts"It's supposed to be harmful." Foreign Interference with Janice Stein and Farhaan LadhaniWe invite fan favourite Janice Stein back to the show with Farhaan Ladhani to talk about foreign interference in Canadian elections. What is it, exactly? What implications does it have for voters? What impact does it have on the spread of polarized political views? Andrew and Joseph also touch on global economic concerns and the rising sentiment of Western separatism in Canada.This week's beer? Ostro, by Superflux and Four Winds.Here's a link to one of the stories we referenced on the show: A network of X accounts is targeting Canada ahead of th...2025-04-0959 minPower Shifts"The NDP is falling off a cliff" with James MooreFormer Cabinet Minister James Moore joins us to assess the state of the federal election, and the contrasting leadership styles of Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre. And what the NDP collapse means for the choice voters face in the April 28 election.Chapters00:00 Beers, Banter, and Things to Watch21:00 Interview with James Moore27:01 The Current Political Landscape30:03 The Two-Horse Race: Carney vs. Poilievre32:49 The Impact of Historical Context on Current Politics36:06 The Influence of Trump on Canadian Conservatism39:20 The Threat of Trump and Canadian...2025-04-0254 minPower ShiftsHow Ford Outfoxed Trump: A Case StudyJoseph Lavoie explores how Ford strategically navigated regulatory challenges by embracing stricter emissions standards ahead of federal requirements, showcasing the importance of regulatory foresight and compliance leadership in the automotive industry. The analysis highlights Ford's proactive approach, the political backlash faced, and the eventual shift in the industry's stance towards stricter regulations.Takeaways- The most successful companies shape regulation, not just react to it.- Ford's compliance leadership was a strategic move for long-term planning.- The Rogue Four's agreement with California was unprecedented in the industry.- Ford's decision was driven by a need for regulatory certainty...2025-03-2819 minPower ShiftsCanadian Election, Top Secret Chats, and UK Local ElectionsElection time! In this cheeky half we take stock of the Canadian federal campaign in its nascent stage with an eye to what it takes to change the frame, and if Canada's third party, the NDP, have any hope.Plus, we talk top secret chats on Signal and why the local election in the UK matter as a reflection of national sentiments. Chapters00:00 Beer Talk01:57 Canadian Federal Election04:48 Polling Dynamics and Party Strategies07:37 The Trump Factor in Canadian P...2025-03-2643 minPower ShiftsConservative Crumble?Is it only Wednesday? It has been a hell of a start to the week. Two big and credible polls have the Liberal Party of Canada, under Mark Carney, as the frontrunners to win the federal election. The pendulum appears to be shifting away from Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives.Of course, the only poll that matters is the one on election day, and as I share in this week’s episode of the show, this may come down to how agile the Conservatives can be in adjusting their tone, and how Carney performs in the crucible of...2025-03-1948 minPower ShiftsCarney's Decisive Win with Dan ArnoldWe welcome our first Liberal on the show! Dan Arnold joins us to analyze the Liberal leadership race in Canada. We analyze the performances of key candidates, particularly Mark Carney and Chrystia Freeland, and explore the impact of Donald Trump on the ballot question. We also geek out on the strategies employed by Carney's campaign, the public's perception of him, and the expectations surrounding his leadership. Chapters00:00 Beer and Banter17:32 Mark Carney's Dominance in the Race20:25 Christia Freeland's Campaign and Future23:25 The Impact of Trump on Canadian Politics26:22 Mark Carney's Authenticity and Campaign Strategy29:29 Expectations...2025-03-1243 minPower ShiftsTrump, and a lot of swearingPercy and Joseph get really ranty in this cheeky half episode as they dig into the current political climate, focusing on the implications of Trump's leadership on global affairs, the future of NATO, and the responses from various political leaders. They reflect on the state of democracy and the challenges facing Western alliances, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of diplomatic strategies in light of recent events. The conversation is marked by a mix of personal anecdotes and serious political analysis, highlighting the emotional toll of the current political landscape.TakeawaysThe cu...2025-03-0536 minPower ShiftsUngovernable with Simon HartI hope you enjoy this Craft Politics episode with former Chief Whip, Simon Hart on the publication of his diaries -- the first Chief Whip to do so in the UK2025-03-041h 09Power ShiftsNATO is deadI discuss the recent exchange between Trump and Zelensky in the Oval Office, highlighting the implications for US foreign policy and global business. I am extremely concerned over the shift in America's stance towards Ukraine and NATO, and the US move towards a more transactional and isolationist approach. I also explore the potential consequences for international relations and the business landscape, emphasizing the need for companies to adapt to a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.Takeaways The US can no longer be relied upon as a staunch ally for NATO...2025-03-0118 minPower ShiftsUK Politics Catchup with Lord WhartonI’m wrapping up a short visit to London this week, where Andrew Percy and I had the chance to interview two political brains. The first interview is with Lord James Wharton, the former MP who chaired Boris Johnson’s leadership race. We cover a lot of ground, including:The current state of British politics, focusing on the challenges faced by the Conservative Party and the rise of the Reform Party. The implications of these dynamics for voter sentiment, party identity, and the strategies needed to navigate the changing political landscape. The nee...2025-02-2853 minPower ShiftsWhy changing minds is harder than everWhy motivated reasoning and tribalism are getting in the way of persuasion efforts2025-02-2319 minPower ShiftsMaking sense of the polls with Alex SwannIn this conversation, the Andrew Percy and Joseph Lavoie discuss the current political landscape in Canada, focusing on the implications of recent polling data, the impact of Pierre Poilievre's rally, and the shifting dynamics within the Conservative and Liberal parties. We explore the methodologies behind polling, the significance of leadership changes, and the economic factors influencing voter sentiment. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by the NDP and the potential effects of the Trump administration on Canadian politics.2025-02-1946 minPower ShiftsThe most successful corporate campaign of all time?I explore the groundbreaking marketing campaign by De Beers that transformed diamond engagement rings into a cultural necessity. I take a look at the historical context, the strategies employed by the advertising agency N.W Ayer and Son, and the long-term impact of the campaign on consumer behaviour and societal expectations surrounding love and commitment. I also highlights key lessons for modern public affairs campaigns, emphasizing the importance of selling ideas, leveraging cultural institutions, and making alternatives unthinkable.2025-02-1514 minPower ShiftsThe Conservative Movement in Canada: A Deep Dive with Ginny RothIn this conversation, Joseph Lavoie, Andrew Percy, and Ginny Roth discuss the current state of the Conservative movement in Canada, focusing on Pierre Poilievre's leadership, polling dynamics, and the coalition of voters supporting him. They explore the challenges Poilievre faces, including the influence of Trump, the balance between cultural conservatism and economic policies, and the future of the Conservative Party. The discussion highlights the complexities of Canadian politics and the evolving landscape as the next election approaches.2025-02-1252 minPower ShiftsI analyzed two years of Pierre Poilievre speechesHere's what they reveal about communicating with Canadians today.2025-02-0829 min
Power ShiftsCraft Politics: "This is economic warfare" with Janice SteinAndrew Percy and Joseph Lavoie welcome Janice Gross Stein on to the show to analyze the recent imposition of tariffs by Trump on Canada and Mexico.
We explore the implications for trade relations, national identity, and the economic landscape.
We analyze the Canadian response, the nature of economic warfare, and the challenges posed by globalization and technological advancements.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction, Beer Selection, Tasting Notes
14:51 Understanding the Insanity of Current Tariff Policies
17:42 The Political Philosophy Behind Tariffs
20:40 Canada's Response to U.S. Tariffs
23:27 Strategic Approaches in International Relations
26:28 The Role of Bullying in Diplomacy
29:18 The European Union's Position on Tariffs
32:14...2025-02-0543 minPower ShiftsWhy DeepSeek MattersA week ago, we had a picture of what the future economic structure would be for AI in 2025. Today, that structure has been blown up. Here's my take on why it matters.2025-02-0110 minPower ShiftsCountdown to 51 | With Guest Nicki NeillyOn this episode of Craft Politics, we dive into the latest political and economic developments with a focus on Donald Trump's impact. Join Joseph Lavoie and Andrew Percy as they discuss DeepSeek's rise in the AI sector and its implications for U.S. tech stocks, Trump's provocative stance on Greenland, and the looming threat of tariffs on Canadian imports. We also explore the broader geopolitical landscape, including the U.S.-China AI race and Canada's strategic responses. Special guest Nicki Neily, Founder and CEO of Parents Defending Education, shares insights on Trump's first week, trade policies, and the evolving...2025-01-291h 08Power ShiftsWhy podcast influencers are the new power brokers—and how you can adaptJoseph discusses the evolving landscape of influence in politics, emphasizing the role of influencers and the importance of empathy in communication. He outlines the shift from traditional media to influencers as key players in shaping public discourse and provides a framework for effective engagement with audiences.
Takeaways
Influencers are reshaping political influence.
Empathy is crucial for building trust with audiences.
Authenticity is more valued than polished messaging.
Long-form content fosters deeper connections.
Organizations must adapt to the new media landscape.
Engagement metrics should focus on audience sentiment.
Two-way conversations enhance trust and understanding.
...2025-01-2519 min
Power ShiftsCheeky Half: Trump InaugurationIn the latest episode of Craft Politics, recorded a couple hours after Trump's inauguration, we try to make sense of his inauguration speech, over an Octopus Wants to Fight IPA from Great Lakes Brewing. 2025-01-2221 minPower ShiftsBecoming a student (again)What happens when ego gets in the way of collaboration? In this episode, I recount a recent experience that challenged my assumptions about mentorship and leadership. You’ll hear how a late-night call reminded me of the value of humility, the courage it takes to ask for help, and why even the most experienced professionals should never stop being students.2025-01-1807 min
Power ShiftsWelcome to Craft Politics! | With Guest Ian RobertsonWelcome to the first-ever episode of Craft Politics! Hosts Joseph Lavoie and Andrew Percy are here to bring you a blend of politics, business, and craft beer analysis. This week, they kick things off by diving into the big headlines: Justin Trudeau’s resignation and what it means for governance and business in Canada, plus the latest drama from Meta—shutting down its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program and switching gears on content moderation.
But the real highlight? A chat with their very first guest, Ian Robertson, a seasoned strategist and partner at Jefferson Hawthorne. Ian takes...2025-01-151h 15Power ShiftsWelcome to Power Shifts!A new year, a new name, and a (slightly) new concept.
Power is always in motion—between political actors, within societies, and across boardrooms. In Power Shifts, Joseph Lavoie explores the forces upending the status quo: the rise of populism, the demographic waves reshaping economies and politics, governments asserting new authority, and the technological revolutions redefining how we live and work.
Drawing on over 20 years of experience advising G7 leaders, premiers, and executives, Lavoie reveals the patterns driving these shifts—and what it takes to stay ahead in a world where power never...2025-01-1406 minPower ShiftsPolitics is the ultimate disruptorIn this episode, I share a talk I gave in October 2024 on the disruptive nature of politics and regulations.
I break down how political decisions, like New York City’s crackdown on Airbnb hosts, can reshape entire industries overnight. Regulation isn’t slowing down—it’s ramping up. From insurance brokers to tech giants, every business faces the same challenge: adapt or get caught off guard.2025-01-0919 minPower ShiftsThe Chaos of Politics Joseph Lavoie and Andrew Percy discuss the chaotic political landscape of 2024, exploring the implications of leadership changes, the dynamics within political caucuses, and the importance of voter advocacy for businesses. They emphasize the need for businesses to adapt to political chaos, plan for potential changes in government, and engage with constituents to build resilience in uncertain times.
Chapters
00:00 The Political Landscape of 2024
04:02 Navigating Political Chaos
09:10 Leadership Changes and Their Impact
15:36 Caucus Dynamics and Business Interests
22:37 Building Resilience in Political Uncertainty
2024-12-2338 minPower ShiftsLaunch a side campaignYour regular 9-5 job might not challenge every aspect of your abilities, but a side campaign can push you to new heights.2024-12-1003 minPower ShiftsKnow your enemyHere’s what happens when you define an enemy:
• It rallies supporters with a clear focus. In the case of the carbon tax, it became a symbol of government overreach for some and a call for fairness for others.
• It simplifies the narrative. Suddenly, you’re not fighting a vague concept like ‘climate policy’; you’re fighting a specific tax that impacts families and businesses.
• It focuses resources. By targeting the tax, campaigns could zero in on legislative repeal or public pressure on key policymakers.
• It creates a compelling storyline. The battle became about ‘stand...2024-11-2602 minPower ShiftsDon't Sit on the SidelineChoosing to sit it out is riskier than playing the game of campaigning.2024-11-2103 minPower ShiftsDon't Talk. Have ConversationsThis week, a client shared a thought-provoking Substack from The Honest Broker that provides a new framework for communications, he calls the 6 new rules for communicating. The main point the author makes is that the era of teleprompters and talking points has come to an end.
Some of these rules we’ve always known to be true in politics. But they’ve been harder to adopt in a business or regulatory context. But, given how less accessible the public has become, it might be time to loosen up a bit.
Here are the...2024-11-2006 minPower ShiftsDon't Bark Without BiteTactics and activity for the sake of it can be distracting and ineffective.2024-11-1903 minPower ShiftsThe Ground Game Still MattersIn trying to assess what went right/wrong for Democrats in last week’s lost to Trump, I’ve come across several pundits who are using these results as proof that the ground game doesn’t matter.
The take goes along these lines:
Harris relied on back technology: the technology of knocking on doors. In some battleground states, they estimate they were knocking on 10 doors for every one that the Trump campaign knocked on.
And yet, it wasn’t enough.
In other words, stop wasting so much money on old tech, because...2024-11-1404 minPower ShiftsThe ballot questionThere’s been plenty of coverage and analysis in the aftermath of Trump’s victory.
It’s while there is such a thing as over-simplifying these, sometimes, there’s solace in simplicity, so long as it’s not simplistic.
And I think every corporate communicator has a simple lesson to learn from the results.
It’s not about who has the better ground game.
It’s not about who signals the right virtues.
It’s not about whether you can or should trust public opinion polling.
It’s about one simple...2024-11-1302 minPower ShiftsThe Frame MattersI’ve been spending a lot of time recently obsessing over word choices.
That’s because words matter.
The right combination of words matter even more.
But here’s why I obsess over word choices: It is tough to find the right combination.2024-11-1203 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Societal AlignmentSocietal Alignment is the strategic power derived from a company’s ability to align its goals, values, and operations with the broader needs and priorities of society, and to actively engage with citizens and communities/ Here's why it matters.2024-11-0504 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Public TrustPublic Trust is about building a strong, trustworthy reputation that enhances public confidence and influences regulatory perceptions and decisions. When you have public trust, you earn the benefit of the doubt. You earn a wider permission space. It’s like the grease between the gears, and without it, you can’t be effective.
And here’s why it’s so powerful: A well-known and respected brand is difficult for new entrants to replicate quickly. A good brand comes with time, and is the result of constant engagement with political actors, regulators, and citizens.2024-10-3104 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Regulatory AdaptabilityRegulatory adaptability and ecosystem control is the strategic power derived from a company’s ability to control critical components of its industry ecosystem, enabling it to influence regulatory environments, shape regulatory standards, and quickly adapt to regulatory changes.
Here's why it matters.2024-10-3004 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Coalition BuildingNext up in my draft framework for regulatory success: Coalition building.
Now, this sounds like a pretty standard play, but uniting competitors behind a shared industry goal is something near impossible. It involves herding cats and getting competitors to work collaboratively. This can be especially tough in emerging sectors or emerging policy areas. When it works though, it works well and can often lead to more balanced regulations that consider multiple perspectives.2024-10-2904 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Advocacy InfluenceHere's how effectively advocating for favourable regulatory conditions through strategic lobbying efforts and mobilizing citizens can create a hell of a moat.2024-10-2403 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Compliance LeadershipWe’ve covered off the first two powers, 1) Regulatory Foresight, and 2) Government Engagement. Next up, the Power of Compliance Leadership.
Which is simply setting industry benchmarks by exceeding standard regulatory compliance requirements.2024-10-2303 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Regulatory EngagementI’m experimenting with a new framework for multinational brands navigating complex political and regulatory landscapes. Last week I explored the power of Regulatory Foresight. Today, we look at the power of Government Engagement, with an eye to securing exclusive regulatory partnerships.2024-10-2203 minPower ShiftsThe Power of Regulatory ForesightI’m experimenting with a new framework for multinational brands navigating complex political and regulatory landscapes.
I’m still fleshing this out, but I have a v.01 of 7 Regulatory Powers that the most successful businesses leverage to manage political risk, regulatory challenges, influence policy, and build a strategic advantage in diverse markets.
Here are my 8 Regulatory Powers:
Regulatory Foresight
Government Engagement
Compliance Leadership
Advocacy Influence
Coalition Building
Regulatory Adaptability
Public Trust
Citizen Engagement
I’ll break down each of these over the course of the next 8 episodes of the podcast.
First up, Po...2024-10-1805 minPower ShiftsBoeing and the FAABoeing is in trouble.
17,000 jobs are being cut.
The 777X jet is delayed.
But there’s more to this story.2024-10-1702 minPower ShiftsThe small business burdenEvery government is becoming more interventionist.
Every business faces more regulation.
And small businesses should the burden of increasing regulation.
But every small business carries political influence.2024-10-1604 minPower ShiftsAlways be planningEvery business needs to do politics.
To do politics, you need a plan. Specifically, a campaign plan.
Not for the output, for the input.
Because, let’s be honest: most plans are useless.2024-10-0904 minPower ShiftsNintendo and conflict mineralsEvery business is in the business of politics. Today’s example? Nintendo.
How can a video game producer become a political target? Oh, the possibilities are endless.
political content in games
portrayal of violence in games
patent infringements.
But today, let’s take a look at conflict minerals sourcing.2024-10-0802 minPower ShiftsUncut: BC Election and Electoral MapsJoseph Lavoie, Jason Craik, and Hunter Knifton discuss the evolving political landscape in British Columbia, focusing on the upcoming election. They analyze the significance of electoral maps, demographic shifts, and the impact of voter turnout on the election outcome. The discussion highlights the importance of businesses understanding these dynamics to engage effectively in the political process and influence policy decisions. The conversation emphasizes the need for targeted strategies in campaigning and the role of demographics in shaping voter preferences.
Takeaways
The BC political landscape is rapidly changing with significant shifts...2024-10-0435 minPower ShiftsElectoral maps, part three: business impactIn this episode, Jason Craig uses the example of a forest company to illustrate how maps overlay with political issues.2024-10-0302 minPower ShiftsElectoral maps, part two: going hyperlocalIt's not enough to understand electoral maps at a riding or constituency level, you need to understand poll by poll, or house by house. But that has its own challenges.2024-10-0202 minPower ShiftsElectoral Maps with Jason Craik and Hunter KniftonThis week I have two colleagues join to talk about electoral maps, with British Columbia serving as a real-time example of why these maps matter. Today's focus: demographic shifts.2024-10-0104 minPower ShiftsMake it practicalHere’s the reality of securing a political win: You can’t do it unless you get a large market share.
Which means, at some point, what you campaign on, and what you present as your vision to voters needs to be practical.2024-09-2601 minPower ShiftsGeopolitics is businessGeopolitics can completely upend your business.
Case in point:
The US department of commerce announced this week that it wants the US to ban Chinese software and hardware for vehicles with a built-in internet connection, a move that would effectively ban Chinese vehicles in the US market.
Why does it matter, especially if you’re not in the automotive sector? Because it serves as a live example of how geopolitical developments can completely derail an entire industry.2024-09-2502 minPower ShiftsAre public affairs and public relations different?I used to say that public affairs and public relations were different. I was wrong:
Public affairs and public relations are no longer separate fields.
They are the same.
Here's why.2024-09-2402 minPower ShiftsDon't blame votersThis week, Prime Minister Trudeau lost two by-elections, one of which is in the fortress of Montreal, the second time he has lost a Liberal stronghold in the last three months.
Losing like this always hurts, even when the writing is on the wall, as it has been for some time now.
But the PM’s response is one that surprised me, because it’s one I’m used to hearing from corporate leaders, not elected officials.2024-09-1901 minPower ShiftsStart small to go bigSpoiler alert: Big crowds don’t create change. Small, focused groups do.
I once had a client sheepishly tell me their event “only” had 15 people show up. My response? Be proud.
It’s not about the numbers—it’s about the purpose. I’ve seen this firsthand2024-09-1803 minPower ShiftsThe Silent Disruptor hits Airbnb in NYCForget competitors or market downturns—politics is the real disruptor. In this episode, we unpack how New York’s Local Law 18 blindsided Airbnb, gutting its short-term rental market and handing hotels a massive win. Politicians, driven by optics and emotions, went after short-term rentals to fix housing affordability. The result? Hosts were decimated, rents skyrocketed, and surprise—housing supply didn’t improve. Join me as we explore how political whack-a-mole could take down your business next.2024-09-1704 minPower ShiftsThe First 100 DaysThe first 100 days are critical for any new leader, but did you know they should also be a key focus for your public affairs strategy? In this video, I explore the origins of the “first 100 days” concept, from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s ambitious start as president, and how it has since become a powerful benchmark for political leaders.
But this isn’t just about politics. It’s about how YOU can seize opportunities, tackle challenges, and get your issues on the agenda when a new government takes office. Learn how to position your organization for succes...2024-09-1202 minPower ShiftsBe a campaignerAdvocacy is important—but it’s not enough.
If you want to thrive in today’s business landscape, you need to be more than just an advocate. You need to think like a campaigner.
What’s the difference? An advocate speaks up, but a campaigner does something even more powerful: they build movements. They’re unrelenting, engaging, and—most importantly—they don’t stop until they win.
Think about it. The most successful business leaders are not only influencing decisions behind closed doors, but they’re rallying people—customers, employees, and communities—around their cause.
So, wh...2024-09-1102 minPower ShiftsBe your own advocateMost CEOs think they can sit back and let their public affairs or corporate affairs teams world shape their regulatory strategy. Wrong. The leaders who win are the ones who think like advocates.
What separates the winners from the also-rans?2024-09-1002 minPower ShiftsVW is feeling regulatory painVolkswagen, for the first time in its 87-year history, is shutting down plants in Germany. Workers are protesting, and the brand identity at the heart of VW is in question. But the real driving force? The regulatory landscape that’s reshaping the automotive industry.2024-09-0502 minPower ShiftsPlan for the unexpectedIt's been a summer of shocking and surprising political developments. But these events are often predictable. You just need to use your imagination and engage in the discipline of scenario planning.2024-09-0403 minPower ShiftsHow is your margin of effortNever assume 1+1=2 in politics, especially if you don't put in the effort. 2024-09-0303 minPower ShiftsYes, you can mobilize votersI’ve encountered skepticism about voter mobilization countless times. The belief that voters don’t care enough or that their efforts won’t make a difference is common. However, I've seen firsthand how aligning a cause with voters’ values can turn apathy into action. Here’s a breakdown of how we achieved this.2024-08-2903 minPower ShiftsHarley Davidson's problemHarley Davidson is not just a bike brand.
It is Americana.
It is Freedom.
And its dedicated fan base wraps itself in that identity.
So much so, that when Harley Davidson fans meet up at bike rallies, they talk about it as “the brand of freedom…in the land of freedom.”
At a recent rally, one fan put it this way: “Harley was like a brotherhood….now it’s just a ghost.”
What happened?2024-08-2802 minPower ShiftsPick your enemiesIn every campaign I've worked on, people rally for what they believe to be right. And that means they need to understand what's wrong
To win a regulatory battle, you need to pick your enemy. Without an enemy, your regulatory campaign won’t perform well.
Why?
Because a clear enemy simplifies your narrative.2024-08-2701 minPower ShiftsNine Core CEO CompetenciesToday’s most effective CEOs do politics as a core competency. Which means they need to have these nine core features.2024-08-2203 minPower Shiftsf*ck oatlySometimes you’re forced to engage in a regulatory campaign because you’ve made people angry and they bring the fight to your doorstep. Too many businesses default to turtling in these moments, worried that fighting back may make matters worse or draw negative attention to the fight.
Oatly does the opposite, and I love it.2024-08-2102 minPower ShiftsVibes are not votesThe polling data is clear: Kamala Harris has momentum. But momentum can be blinding, and I’m seeing a lot of it in the media coverage. Don’t confuse vibes with votes. I’ve done it before, and the end result was painful: we were shocked to lose.2024-08-2002 minPower ShiftsStop chasing moderatesHere’s something I’m seeing in corporate boardrooms: a desire to win over moderates.
It’s a well-intentioned mistake, but it’s a mistake nonetheless.
Why?
Because that cohort just doesn’t exist on any issue. If they’re “moderate,” they’re indifferent.
So, you’ve got two options when engaging this slice of the population.2024-08-1401 minPower ShiftsIncumbency is a liabilityUnless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you know this is the so-called year of democracy.
Voter turnout is surging across the globe, and political junkies can barely keep up with the drama.
We’ve seen a dramatic change in government in the UK.
An impressive counter-mobilization effort to block the right in France.
Big shifts in India, South Africa, and Turkey.
And just this past week, a major shakeup in Bangladesh.
Why does it matter?2024-08-1301 minPower ShiftsContrast over consensusLessons from Kamala Harris' speech to supporters unveiling her VP pick.2024-08-0802 minPower ShiftsActivists move faster than youAt some point, your organization will face opposition. For public companies, that opposition often hits hard in the form of an activist investor. Case in point: Robby Starbuck2024-08-0702 minPower ShiftsShape your regulatory environmentLet’s talk about “The 5-year strategic plan”.
Something many organizations develop at some point.
Many have the disciplined to review and revise their 5-year strategic plan every 2-3 years.
It’s a great exercise in looking around the corner.
But here’s the problem with the ones I have seen:
They assume the regulatory environment will remain static.2024-08-0601 minPower ShiftsGone fishing...but hey, a small favour?I'm in the UK this week and will return with fresh takes next week. In the meantime, could I trouble you for some 5-star love?2024-07-3000 minPower ShiftsPolitics is about choicePolitics, and especially campaigns, are a choice.
And if you’re going to engage in politics, you must communicate what the choice is.
Every message should be framed through this lens.
And that lens needs to reveal the emotions that make the choice compelling.2024-07-2501 minPower ShiftsPolitics is about valuesPolitics is about values.
Which means business is about values.
But let’s face it, values are scary.
If you lean into them too hard, or don’t execute properly, communicating your brand’s values can backfire.
Last week I used Bud Light as a case study for how this can go sideways quick.
But, as counter-intuitive as it seems, if your gut instinct is to shy away from values-based campaigns, you’re making a mistake.2024-07-2402 minPower ShiftsExpect shock and surpriseWhen I got the news that Joe Biden was stepping out of the race, I was shocked, but not surprised.
We’ve seen this coming for weeks. It was only every a matter of time. And yet, when the moment hit, the gravity of it all sends shockwaves through the body.
This is politics. And in politics, a minute can feel like an hour, an hour can feel like a day, and a day can feel like a decade.
What does it mean for business?2024-07-2302 minPower ShiftsSitting out a campaign is risky businessThe fear that public campaigning in regulatory affairs might do more harm than good is a common but misplaced concern. Here's why.2024-07-1803 minPower ShiftsLessons from Bud Light's political choiceSometimes, a business trips into a political crisis. Other times, it does so my choice.
Today's example is the latter. We're going to rewind the clock to May 2023.
Bud Light was on a 22-year run as America’s best-selling beer.
A month later, it was dethroned by Modelo Especial.
The sharp drop in sales didn’t happen incrementally over an extended period of years.
It happened in a matter of weeks.2024-07-1704 minPower ShiftsAirbnb restrictions were inevitableBarcelona is experiencing an Airbnb backlash. And it serves as a reminder that every industry faces increased regulation.
Consider the trajectory of short-term leasing from Airbnb’s launch in 2008 to now. The pattern is familiar and applies to any industry:
• A new service emerges in a regulatory grey zone.
• Regulators scramble to respond.
• Initial heavy-handed regulations often miss the mark, misunderstanding public demand.
• Regulators face backlash, allow the industry to grow, then gradually tighten regulations.
• Over time, the regulatory landscape becomes more complex...2024-07-1603 minPower ShiftsUK Election Analysis with Christine QuigleyChristine provides insights into the Labour Party's victory and their focus on economic growth, infrastructure, and addressing the cost of living crisis. We also cover the government's fast-paced approach and the need for businesses to understand and adapt to the new government's priorities and language. We also caution against assuming that the current government will be the same as previous Labour governments.
Takeaways
The Labour Party's victory in the UK election signals a focus on economic growth, infrastructure development, and addressing the cost of living crisis.
The government is moving...2024-07-1218 minPower ShiftsUK Election: Why the electoral map mattersBusinesses need to understand electoral maps. Christine Quiqley tells us why that matters in the UK, and what it means for how Labour governs over the next 5 years.2024-07-1105 minPower ShiftsDon't chase virality“How can we go viral with our campaign?”
I cringe at that question.Obviously it comes from the right place — a desire to ensure your message gets broad reach so you can change public opinion or grow your cause.
But here’s the thing: in public affairs and regulatory campaigns, chasing virality is a seductive and misguided goal.2024-07-1002 minPower ShiftsCampaigning vs Advocacy“Do I need to run a campaign?” I get this question a lot —usually when the organization has been in market with an advocacy effort already. I break down the difference, and offer a framework for assessing which makes the most sense for you.2024-07-0901 minPower ShiftsSpotify's bundles are politicalYou may not have noticed it, but when Spotify reclassified its Premium subscriptions as bundles in March 2024, the impact to songwriters is estimated to be $150 million in the first year alone. And that's a political problem.2024-07-0402 minPower ShiftsCitizens, not consumersIt takes a special kind of person to dive into the political or regulatory process.
It takes a citizen.2024-07-0301 minPower ShiftsLufthansa's big political betLufthansa has become the first airline to pass the cost of Europe’s new emissions rules on to passengers.
Consumers can now expect a surcharge ranging anywhere from €1 to €72 per ticket, starting next year on departures from European countries.
The rationale? To cover the “steadily rising additional costs” of new environmental fuel requirements.
It's a heck of a gamble.2024-07-0202 minPower ShiftsForget your factsHere's a big mistake we often make: we lead with the facts. Here's the problem: people aren’t persuaded by facts. They use facts to support their emotions and values.
Effective campaigns require empathy, not just advocacy. Here's what it takes to connect with your audience on their terms, not yours.2024-06-2703 minPower ShiftsSurviving a polarized worldI share insights from my upcoming conference talk on thriving in a polarized public opinion environment.
Key Points:
US vs. Canada Polarization: In the US, affective polarization makes people despise opposing views. In Canada, while people are ideologically consistent, they don’t hate others with different opinions. Instead, they respond to clear, sharp policy positions, which is actually good for democracy.
Perception vs. Reality: There’s a perception of increased polarization, but it’s often exaggerated. The more ideologically consistent we are, the more distor...2024-06-2604 minPower ShiftsProve you have voter demandEvery business leader knows that having a great product or service is not enough. You need social proof to demonstrate demand for your offering. This is especially true when it comes to lobbying political decision-makers. If you’re in business, you’re in the business of demonstrating voter demand.2024-06-2504 minPower ShiftsThe next palm oilHere’s the problem: 80% of the world’s gum arabic comes from Sudan.
And Sudan is in the middle of a gruesome civil war that erupted last year. That war has created the largest humanitarian crisis on the planet. Things are going to get worse a whole lot of industries.2024-06-2003 minPower ShiftsShein's IPO is politicalHey everybody, Joseph Lavoie here and here’s something I’m watching: fast fashion giant Shein’s (shee-in) ongoing effort to go public. Why? Because it’s proof positive that business is politics. Especially if your business has ties to China. Or rather, if it wants to gently sever those ties.2024-06-1902 minPower ShiftsCEOs are political leadersEvery business is operating in a polarized environment. That means CEOs are prime targets.2024-06-1802 minPower ShiftsWelcome to Business is Politics!I'm jumping into the video and podcast game, sharing what I've learned in my 20 years of advising G7 leaders and corporate leaders on how to reshape regulatory conditions.
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Apple Podcasts2024-06-1801 min
No Good PoetryEpisode 29: Surrealist Poetry Games with Madeline LavoieThis week poet Madeline Lavoie joins us to play some surrealist poetry games and share some of her poetry.
2017-10-2140 min