How bad structures destroy good governance: Podcast

How bad structures destroy good governance: A Corporate Governance Podcast

On this episode of the Corporate Governance Podcast, Dan speaks with Alison Teitelbaum, Advisor to Boards & Executive Teams with many years of experience in governance and strategy alignment. 

Dan and Alison discuss the chronic problem of blame games as they play out in the boardroom. A lot of the time, the tendency is to point fingers at individuals in cases of bad decision-making, but Alison is passionate that the root cause is often not individual-based at all. It goes deeper, to a more strategic level. 

Dan and Alison also unpack the worrying trend whereby female leaders continue to be seen through a different and unfairer lens when decisions don’t produce planned results – something Alison is passionate about shining the spotlight on.

With more than 20 years of experience across complex, mission-driven organisations, Alison Teitelbaum has led work spanning operations, strategic planning, governance, and organisational change. Her approach combines data-informed strategy with a clear-eyed understanding of the human dynamics that shape how organisations actually function.

Having served in senior executive roles, Alison understands the pressures leaders face and the gap that often exists between strategy and execution.

Many of the challenges organisations encounter are not rooted in strategy itself, but in how leadership, governance, and priorities align (or don’t) in practice.

Her work focuses on helping organisations address that gap.

She has led multimillion-dollar turnarounds, strengthened leadership pipelines, and guided boards and executive teams through complex strategic and governance decisions. From boardrooms to cross-functional leadership settings, she designs and facilitates conversations that bring clarity, alignment, and shared direction.

Whether supporting a leadership transition, strengthening board and executive alignment, or helping an organisation move from strategy to execution, Alison brings a calm, grounded presence and practical tools that enable progress.

Based in the Washington, DC area, Alison works with clients across the United States and internationally. She partners with organisations both virtually and in person and is available to travel for key meetings, retreats, and facilitated sessions.

The Corporate Governance Podcast is your taster of what’s new in governance worldwide. The modern director understands that boardroom responsibilities have dramatically increased, and old norms are being challenged by new ideals around sustainable business that respect all stakeholders – not just shareholders. 

Because of this, corporate governance education is an invaluable addition to a director’s skillset—something that will help you stand out amongst your colleagues. 

CGI offers dedicated diplomas in corporate governance and ESG, as well as numerous other certificates and membership opportunities focusing on the areas of governance you’re passionate about. 

They’re delivered entirely online and self-paced – meaning you can learn and study at a rate that suits you. 

To learn more or enrol, check out our courses. We look forward to working with you in the future.