Global Trends and Politics
CEO Departures at U.S. Companies Hit a Record This Year

CEO Turnover Reaches Record High in 2024
U.S. public companies announced 327 chief executive changes this year through November, according to outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas. This marks more than in any other year since at least 2010, when the firm first started tracking the turnover. It’s also an 8.6% increase from last year.
Turnover included CEOs at U.S. companies that have long dominated their industries — like Boeing, Nike, and Starbucks. The pace of change points to those companies’ customers, investors, hedge funds or boards growing impatient with sales slumps or strategic missteps in an otherwise strong economy when consumers proved they were willing to spend.
CEO Changes: A Sign of Impatience
The cost of capital, the speed of transformation, is creating faster turnover, said Clarke Murphy, managing director and former chief executive of Russell Reynolds Associates, a leadership advisory firm. Murphy said it was easier to stand out for poor performance in an otherwise strong market.
"In years of 20-plus-percent S&P [500] returns two years in a row, any company that’s significantly underperforming, the spotlight has been on, and boards of directors moved faster than they might have moved five or seven years ago," Murphy said.
Major U.S. CEO Changes
Here are some of the major U.S. CEO changes so far this year:
Intel
The semiconductor company ousted CEO Pat Gelsinger earlier this month, nearly four years after he was appointed to turn the chipmaker around and better compete with rivals. Intel’s stock price and market share had collapsed as the artificial intelligence wave boosted chipmaker Nvidia while Intel struggled to crack into the business. A successor hasn’t yet been named.
Boeing
The aerospace giant announced former CEO Dave Calhoun’s departure in March, part of a broad executive shake-up. It came nearly three months after an unsecured door plug blew off midair from a nearly new Boeing 737 Max 9 operated by Alaska Airlines, plunging the company back into a safety crisis after years of problems across its defense and commercial aerospace business, frustrating the leaders of some of its biggest airline customers. Calhoun himself was appointed in the last days of 2019 to succeed ex-CEO Dennis Muilenburg, who was ousted for his handling of the aftermath of two fatal crashes of Boeing’s 737 Max in 2018 and 2019.
Starbucks
With sales shrinking in its biggest markets, Starbucks poached Chipotle Mexican Grill star CEO Brian Niccol to turn around the coffee chain’s fortunes, replacing Laxman Narasimhan. The company’s shares soared nearly 25% when Niccol’s appointment was announced in August.
Nike
The shoemaker replaced CEO John Donahoe in September with Elliott Hill, a company veteran who started as an intern at Nike in the 1980s. Donahue had helped Nike grow sales since he took the helm, from $39.1 billion in fiscal 2019 to $51.4 billion in fiscal 2024, but growth eventually stagnated after he moved away from wholesale partners like Foot Locker and Macy’s and lost sight of innovation.
Peloton
A darling of the pandemic, the home fitness equipment company had struggled since return-to-office mandates started rolling in. In 2022, Peloton brought in former Spotify and Netflix executive Barry McCarthy to take over for founder John Foley, but he stepped down in May after the company announced yet another restructuring. In October, Peloton announced Peter Stern, a former Ford executive and Apple Fitness+ co-founder as its third CEO. Stern has a background in growing subscription-based services, and Wall Street is hopeful he’ll bring Peloton to profitability by cutting costs and focusing on its high-margin subscription revenue.
Kohl’s
Kohl’s CEO Tom Kingsbury is stepping down on Jan. 15, the off-mall department store said late last month, and he will be succeeded by Ashley Buchanan from crafting mecca Michaels. Kohl’s has seen its comparable store sales, a key metric for retailers, drop in each of the past 11 quarters, and its stock price slumped.
WW International
The weight loss company formerly known as Weight Watchers announced in September that CEO Sima Sistani would step down immediately. WW International has struggled, with shares falling more than 80% this year. It tired to reorient itself under Sistani’s tenure to include a platform that links customers with popular weight loss drugs.
Conclusion
The pace of CEO turnover is accelerating, driven by the cost of capital, the speed of transformation, and the pressure to deliver results in an otherwise strong economy. As companies face challenges in an increasingly competitive landscape, boards of directors are holding CEOs accountable for underperformance.
FAQs
Q: Why is CEO turnover increasing?
A: CEO turnover is increasing due to the cost of capital, the speed of transformation, and the pressure to deliver results in an otherwise strong economy.
Q: Which industries are most affected by CEO turnover?
A: Consumer-focused companies, which are more susceptible to changing tastes and trends, are generally more affected by CEO turnover than industries like oil and gas or utilities, which tend to have internal and longer-tenured CEOs.
Q: What are the consequences of CEO turnover?
A: CEO turnover can have significant consequences, including disruption to the company’s strategy, loss of key talent, and a potential impact on the company’s stock price.
Global Trends and Politics
ESPN Flagship Streaming App To Be Named ‘ESPN’

Introduction to ESPN’s New Streaming Service
A general view of the ESPN logo on a camera at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 6, 2024. At long last, ESPN has chosen a name for its upcoming all-access streaming service. The name of the service is "ESPN." Disney’s sports media division will announce the new name at a media event next week, according to people familiar with the matter who declined to be named speaking about not-yet-public details.
Features of the New Streaming Service
Disney executives have referred to the streaming product, which is expected to cost $25 or $30 a month, as "flagship" internally for the past two years as they have developed the service. It will consist of everything ESPN has to offer, including all games; programming on other ESPN cable networks such as ESPN2 and the SEC Network; ESPN on ABC; fantasy products; new betting tie-ins; studio programming; documentaries and more.
Difference from ESPN+
This will differ from ESPN’s current streaming product ESPN+, which does not include the most-watched live games, such as Monday Night Football, that currently only air exclusively on traditional pay-TV. ESPN+ costs $11.99 per month and can be bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for $16.99 per month with commercials. ESPN+ will remain a less expensive offering for consumers, according to people familiar with the matter.
Reason for the Name Choice
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro decided to name the application ESPN to simplify what has become a cluttered streaming world, filled with different media products that can be bundled with other services at different price points, according to those people. The new ESPN streaming service is a new distribution mechanism, but most of the content is not new. Rather, the launch is about introducing consumers to a different way customers can access ESPN’s programming.
Access to the New Service
The ESPN mobile application will be reimagined and act as the gateway to the all-access service on smart TVs and devices. Pay-TV subscribers who already get ESPN will automatically be able to authenticate into the new app to get the digital bells and whistles that are not available through cable TV. That overlap also played into executives’ decision to maintain uniformity with the name ESPN, rather than a different name that may increase confusion, the people said.
Pricing and Availability
ESPN will next week announce the pricing of the application, as well as associated bundled discounts, Disney CEO Bob Iger said Wednesday during Disney’s quarterly earnings conference call. ESPN has previously said the service will debut in the fall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ESPN’s new all-access streaming service will be called "ESPN" and will offer a wide range of content, including games, programming, and fantasy products. The service will be available for $25 or $30 a month and will differ from ESPN’s current streaming product ESPN+. The new service is expected to debut in the fall and will be available on smart TVs and devices.
FAQs
Q: What is the name of ESPN’s new streaming service?
A: The name of ESPN’s new streaming service is "ESPN".
Q: How much will the new streaming service cost?
A: The new streaming service is expected to cost $25 or $30 a month.
Q: What content will be available on the new streaming service?
A: The new streaming service will offer a wide range of content, including games, programming, and fantasy products.
Q: Will the new streaming service replace ESPN+?
A: No, ESPN+ will remain a less expensive offering for consumers.
Q: When will the new streaming service be available?
A: The new streaming service is expected to debut in the fall.
Global Trends and Politics
Avoiding the Pitfalls: Strategies for Effective Communication in a Political Workplace

As political impacts on workplaces continue to rise, effective communication is crucial for success. In today’s fast-paced, globally connected world, the political landscape can significantly influence the workplace, making it essential to navigate these challenges with ease. With the ever-changing political climate, employees and employers must be aware of the potential pitfalls that can arise and develop strategies to overcome them.
Understanding the Political Landscape
The political landscape can have a significant impact on the workplace, with issues like election results, policy changes, and social movements affecting employee morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. For instance, the 2020 US presidential election saw a significant increase in workplace discussions and debates, with some employees feeling uncomfortable or even harassed by their coworkers’ political views. Employers must be aware of these potential issues and develop strategies to address them.
Recognizing the Risks of Polarization
Polarization is a significant risk in the workplace, as employees with differing political views can create a toxic work environment. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that 44% of employees reported feeling uncomfortable discussing politics at work, while 25% reported feeling harassed or bullied due to their political views. Employers must take steps to prevent polarization and create a welcoming environment for all employees.
Addressing Microaggressions and Bias
Microaggressions and bias can also be significant issues in the workplace, particularly in environments where political views are openly discussed. For example, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who experienced microaggressions were more likely to feel disengaged and less productive. Employers must take steps to address microaggressions and bias, such as providing training and creating a safe and inclusive work environment.
Developing Effective Communication Strategies
Effective communication is crucial for success in a political workplace. Employers and employees must develop strategies to navigate difficult conversations and create a welcoming environment for all. Some effective communication strategies include active listening, empathy, and respect for differing opinions. For instance, a study by the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employees who felt heard and understood by their employers were more likely to be engaged and productive.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Work Environment
Creating a safe and inclusive work environment is essential for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers can achieve this by establishing clear policies and procedures for addressing political discussions and debates, as well as providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, Google’s diversity and inclusion program has been recognized as one of the best in the industry, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for employees from all backgrounds.
Encouraging Open and Respectful Dialogue
Encouraging open and respectful dialogue is also essential for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers can achieve this by creating a culture of respect and empathy, where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions and views. For instance, a study by the Journal of Business Ethics found that employees who felt comfortable sharing their opinions were more likely to be engaged and committed to their employer.
Navigating Difficult Conversations
Navigating difficult conversations is a crucial aspect of effective communication in a political workplace. Employers and employees must be able to navigate conversations about sensitive topics, such as politics and social issues, with ease and respect. Some strategies for navigating difficult conversations include staying calm and composed, listening actively, and focusing on the issue rather than the person.
Managing Conflict and Disagreements
Managing conflict and disagreements is also essential for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers can achieve this by establishing clear policies and procedures for addressing conflicts, as well as providing training on conflict resolution and management. For example, a study by the Journal of Conflict Resolution found that employees who received training on conflict resolution were more likely to manage conflicts effectively and maintain positive relationships with their coworkers.
Building Trust and Credibility
Building trust and credibility is crucial for effective communication in a political workplace. Employers and employees must be able to trust each other to navigate difficult conversations and create a welcoming environment for all. Some strategies for building trust and credibility include being transparent and honest, following through on commitments, and demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, effective communication is crucial for success in a political workplace. Employers and employees must develop strategies to navigate difficult conversations, create a safe and inclusive work environment, and build trust and credibility. By understanding the political landscape, recognizing the risks of polarization, and addressing microaggressions and bias, employers can create a welcoming environment for all employees. By following the strategies outlined in this article, employers can navigate the challenges of a political workplace and create a positive and productive work environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I create a safe and inclusive work environment in a political workplace?
A: Creating a safe and inclusive work environment in a political workplace involves establishing clear policies and procedures for addressing political discussions and debates, as well as providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Q: How can I navigate difficult conversations about politics in the workplace?
A: Navigating difficult conversations about politics in the workplace involves staying calm and composed, listening actively, and focusing on the issue rather than the person.
Q: What are some strategies for building trust and credibility in a political workplace?
A: Some strategies for building trust and credibility in a political workplace include being transparent and honest, following through on commitments, and demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Q: How can I address microaggressions and bias in the workplace?
A: Addressing microaggressions and bias in the workplace involves providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as creating a safe and inclusive work environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions and views.
Q: What are some effective communication strategies for a political workplace?
A: Some effective communication strategies for a political workplace include active listening, empathy, and respect for differing opinions, as well as creating a culture of respect and empathy where employees feel comfortable sharing their opinions and views.
Global Trends and Politics
Newark Air Traffic Controllers Lose Contact with Planes

Introduction to Air Traffic Control Outages
A man stands outside Terminal C with the airport control tower in the background at Newark Liberty International Airport, on May 6, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. Andres Kudacki | Getty Images
Recent Outage at Newark Liberty International Airport
Air traffic controllers who guide planes in and out of Newark Liberty International Airport lost radar and communication with aircraft before dawn on Friday in another 90-second outage, the Federal Aviation Administration said, hours after the Trump administration unveiled a plan to overhaul the aging technology that keeps U.S. airspace safe. The outage occurred at about 3:55 a.m. ET, the FAA said. There are far fewer aircraft flying overnight, so disruptions were minimal compared with a similar outage on the afternoon of April 28, which snarled air travel for days.
Impact of the Outage
Several controllers took leave because of the stress of that April incident, the FAA said. That exacerbated low staffing levels at the Philadelphia facility tasked with guiding planes in and out of Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, forcing the FAA to slow the airport’s traffic. Like in the April incident, Friday’s outage left controllers unable to communicate with aircraft and their radar screens dark.
Need for Improvements to Air Traffic Control
Airlines and labor groups said in February that the U.S. urgently needs billions of dollars in emergency funding from Congress for improvements to air traffic control, which has faced both staffing shortfalls and outdated equipment.
Conclusion
The recent outages at Newark Liberty International Airport highlight the need for improvements to air traffic control technology and staffing levels. The Federal Aviation Administration and airlines are working together to address these issues and prevent future disruptions to air travel.
FAQs
Q: What happened at Newark Liberty International Airport on Friday?
A: Air traffic controllers lost radar and communication with aircraft for 90 seconds due to a technical outage.
Q: What was the impact of the outage?
A: The outage caused minimal disruptions since it occurred overnight when there are fewer aircraft flying.
Q: What is being done to address the issues with air traffic control?
A: The Trump administration has unveiled a plan to overhaul the aging technology, and airlines and labor groups are seeking emergency funding from Congress for improvements.
Q: How often do outages like this occur?
A: This is the second outage in recent months, with a similar incident occurring on April 28.
Q: What are the main challenges facing air traffic control?
A: Air traffic control is facing staffing shortfalls and outdated equipment, which need to be addressed to prevent future outages and disruptions.
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