Cyber threats. Growth and scaling in a time of economic uncertainty. The AI revolution. Talent management and succession. Engendering mental health and wellness.

Any one of these business challenges is enough to give a CEO a 365-day case of insomnia.

But in 2025, all five are poised to be at the top of the agenda for executives in the Capital Region and beyond.

To help you navigate them, we’ve gathered insights from seasoned leaders who have faced these pressures firsthand—as well as frontline consultants—to share their proven strategies and best practices.

Baton Rouge General Chief Information Officer Bennett Cheramie and  General Informatics CEO Donald Monistere share their strategies for tackling the rising threat of cyberattacks with strategies to safeguard critical business systems. BASF Senior Vice President Jerry Lebold and Our Lady of the Lake Health CIO Will Landry break down how they’re leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to solve complex challenges and enhance efficiency.

Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry founder Lee Michael Berg and Lamar CEO Sean Reilly provide insights into mentoring the next generation of leadership and laying the groundwork for a successful transition that ensures long-term growth and stability. Highland Wealth partner Gavin Filasek explains how he’s overcoming economic challenges with a fresh approach to scaling operations and achieving sustained success.

And Success Labs partner Melissa Thompson and Dr. Curtis Chastain explore innovative solutions to empower your team by addressing mental health and well-being in meaningful ways.

Jerry Lebold

Capitalizing on the AI revolution

Cullen Talley

Navigating economic uncertainty

Bennett Cheramie

Confronting the cyber threat

Sean Reilly & Lee Berg

Cultivating leadership and managing succession

Melissa Thompson & Curtis Chastain

Engendering mental health and wellness