You say all Americans can help ‘fix’ the country. How?
Each of us has a responsibility to ourselves, to each other, to our nation, to society, to be involved, to educate ourselves, and to choose people we think will do the same. We’ve got to vote; we’ve got to be engaged. I believe problems can be solved if we work together.
Why do we need to change the financing of political campaigns?
The Supreme Court decision in Citizens United has made Super PACS possible. That kind of money creates access to legislators that disenfranchises the rest of us. Until we change the game to align the incentives toward public good, it’s difficult for people to be effective leaders.
How would you bridge the gap between the 1 percent and the 99 percent?
People have to change the way they think. That’s one of the first things boards can do: Tie pay to performance. When we get these high multiples, it’s counterproductive. The committees may claim that attracts the best talent, but I don’t believe it.
How do negative corporate cultures create hidden costs?
CEOs who believe ‘there’s no economic benefit to having happy employees’ pay a huge price. There are costs associated with not having a partnership between management and labor, not having an engaged, innovative workforce. You lose good people; you miss productivity targets.
Why do you feel Michelle Rhee is a strong leader?
As head of Students First, she knows holding children to the highest standards is in their best interests and the country’s best interests. It’s not about maximizing the pay and privileges of tenured teachers. It’s about educating our kids.