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August 15.2025
3 Minutes Read

Vistage on the Hill 2025: Business Leaders Share Brutal Facts with Washington

Vistage on the Hill 2025 group at the US Capitol steps.

Brutal Facts: Real Insights from Business Leaders

At the recent Vistage on the Hill event, business leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. to voice the pressing issues facing their operations today. Amidst an atmosphere charged with economic uncertainty, these CEOs brought forward 'brutal facts,' ensuring policymakers heard real-world insights directly from the front lines. This eighth annual gathering aimed not just to inform but to engage in genuine dialogues with policy experts, fostering a strong connection between business realities and legislative action.

Why CEOs Are Speaking Up

As Sam Reese, CEO of Vistage Worldwide, articulated, understanding the complexities that high-integrity leaders navigate is crucial. These leaders are not just running companies; they are caretakers of families and communities. Tami Bohannon, CEO of AllThrive 365, echoed this sentiment by emphasizing the importance of being heard by the policymakers who influence the regulations affecting their businesses. It provides a glimmer of hope that their needs are being acknowledged.

Addressing Tariffs and Tax Concerns

The interaction at Vistage on the Hill revealed tariffs to be a significant concern among attendees. Businesses that rely on imports, like those represented by Mark Shinbane, CEO of SK Food Brands, expressed frustration over how tariffs are affecting product costs and overall operations. Moreover, discussions on tax policies unveiled potential advantages and nuances, ensuring that leaders like Brooke Lee, new Chair of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, are well-equipped to adapt their strategies in the coming year.

Integrating AI: A Common Goal

As automation becomes more critical in sustaining business growth, the call to embrace artificial intelligence was prominent. Companies are eager to leverage AI not only to streamline processes but also to enhance decision-making. This aspect was particularly motivating for many attendees, providing them with practical avenues to innovate within their organizations.

Strengthening Community By Engaging Local Lawmakers

Vistage members are encouraged to use their experiences to engage with local lawmakers actively. Andy Zucaro, president of AZCO Corporation, emphasized the need for clear communication to help policymakers understand the real needs of businesses. This philosophy highlights a proactive approach, paving the way for more responsive regulations supportive of growth.

The Lasting Impact of Vistage on the Hill

The conversations at Vistage on the Hill will not remain isolated in D.C. Following the event, initiatives are in place for peer groups across the country to discuss these insights collaboratively. This exchange of ideas within local chapters will enhance the decision-making processes of these businesses, fostering innovative solutions to common challenges.

Sam Reese reaffirmed the ongoing commitment of Vistage to represent small and medium-sized businesses. Their dedicated presence at this annual event ensures that the voices driving the U.S. economy are not silenced but amplified, creating a robust dialogue between business leaders and the policymakers who shape the regulatory landscape.

The Vistage on the Hill 2025 highlighted that during times of uncertainty, collaborative engagement between business leaders and policy experts is essential. For business leaders, sharing experiences and positioning themselves within this dialogue not only influences policy decisions but also fosters a collective resilience among entrepreneurs.

Leadership Strategies

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