Businesses face an ever-changing landscape, and as 2025 approaches, the challenges on the horizon are varied and complex. Here’s a snapshot of nine topics that thought leaders, the PepTalk team and our speakers anticipate as the dominant topics in the coming year:
9 Essential Business Challenges to Address
1. Truth and Honesty in a Post-Truth World
The resurgence of misinformation and polarising narratives makes truthfulness more critical than ever. Speakers can emphasise the role of honesty in building trust, sustaining workplace culture, and fostering collaboration.
Why it matters: Employees and consumers demand transparency, especially in a climate of scepticism and political division.
What to read next: The Business Case For Kindness: How Do You Crack The Code?
2. Human-Centric Leadership in the Age of AI
As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to revolutionise industries, businesses must ensure they don’t lose sight of human connection. This topic will explore fostering empathy, adaptability, and trust in an increasingly automated world. Is Human Intelligence what we all need?
Why it matters: Leaders need strategies to balance technological advancements with human-centric values.
What to read next: Why Great Leaders Unlearn With Terence Mauri
3. Geopolitics and Global Interconnectivity
From US-China tensions to the Middle East’s evolving landscape, geopolitical trends will heavily influence business decisions. Topics will also include de-dollarization and its economic ripple effects.
Why it matters: Businesses require insights to navigate political shifts and global supply chain challenges.
What to read next: Explore PepTalk’s geopolitical speakers
4. Ethical Business and Corporate Responsibility
The backlash against corporate greed is mounting. Ethical business practices, executive compensation transparency, and stakeholder value prioritisation will dominate discussions.
Why it matters: Companies must align with public expectations or risk reputational damage.
What to read next: Discover how brands like Lucy & Yak and Social Bite are leading with purpose.
5. Sustainability and Compliance in Global Markets
Ambitious directives in sustainability reporting and extended supply chains are transforming business operations. This topic is especially relevant for manufacturers but will grow in importance across industries.
Why it matters: Companies must adapt to new regulations and consumer demands for sustainability.
What to read next: Explore PepTalk’s top sustainability speakers.
6. Skills for the Future Workforce
The rise of robotics, AI, and automation is displacing traditional roles. Speakers will address the growing skills gap and strategies to future-proof the workforce.
Why it matters: Without proactive solutions, the divide between skilled and unskilled workers may widen, impacting economic stability.
What to read next: Discover top speakers on the future of work, from resilience experts to digital trendsetters. Learn how they can inspire your organisation.
7. Disability Pride and Inclusion in the Workplace
With Disability Pride Month gaining momentum in July, businesses will focus on championing inclusivity for employees with disabilities. This topic will highlight best practices for accessibility, representation, and fostering equitable workplaces.
Why it matters: Disability inclusion is not just a compliance issue—it's a driver of innovation, diverse thinking, and ethical business practices.
What to read next: Disability Pride Month: It's Time To Wave The Flag
8. Mental Health and Inclusivity: A Focus on Men’s Wellbeing
November 19, 2025, marks International Men’s Day, bringing a renewed focus on mental health, particularly for men. Companies are expected to expand wellness initiatives and foster inclusive discussions.
Why it matters: A healthier workforce is a more productive workforce.
What to read next: What is International Men’s Da, and why does it matter?
9. The Practical Use of Emerging Technologies
Beyond buzzwords, businesses want to know how AI, robotics, and automation translate into practical, day-to-day applications. This topic demystifies how companies outside of the tech industry inner-circle are integrating cutting-edge tech.
Why it matters: Leaders need actionable insights to stay competitive.
What to read next: Struggling to engage your team with tech? Discover how top speakers on disruption and innovation, like Jason Bates, Dan Cobley, and Christiane Vejlø can help.
As businesses grapple with these challenges, expert speakers will be crucial in offering clarity, actionable insights, and inspiration. If you're looking to book thought leaders on these topics, PepTalk is your strategic partner for connecting with the best minds in the industry.
💡 Would you like to explore any of these topics with an expert speaker? Let us know, and we’ll find the perfect PepTalk expert for your organisation. Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com or send us a message via chat. You can also call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US). Remember, it’s always a good time to get a PepTalk!
