“The Government May Shut Down, But Your Future Doesn’t Have To” — Why Executives Need Plan B

Hire Yourself Podcast with Pete Gilfillan

You’ve worked your whole career to earn your seat at the table—but with the current wave of economic instability, government shutdowns, and corporate layoffs, that seat may no longer be secure.

In this episode, Pete Gilfillan takes on the tough reality facing senior executives: uncertainty is the new normal, and even top performers are at risk. Drawing from headlines in Forbes, Politico, and The Wall Street Journal, Pete explores how today's chaos is reshaping boardroom dynamics—and why franchise ownership might be your smartest backup plan.

In this episode, Pete discusses:

1. Boardroom Risk is Rising
Uncertainty breeds blame. If the board doesn’t like the outcome—even if it's beyond your control—your position could be the first to go.

2. Data Blackouts Lead to Bad Decisions
In a world where compliance data and reporting are delayed or distorted, execs are forced to lead through a fog. Missteps aren’t forgiven.

3. Workforce Fallout Damages Credibility
Low morale from layoffs or lost contracts—even when not your fault—can erode team trust and reflect poorly on leadership.

4. Executive Cuts Are Often Permanent
You’re highly paid, and that makes you a target. Once your role is eliminated, it rarely comes back.

5. You Need a Plan B Before You Need It
Pete shares how executives are diversifying their income and creating security through franchise ownership—before they’re pushed out.

Key Takeaways:

• The corporate table is shrinking, and your seat isn’t guaranteed.
• The board doesn’t wait for fairness—it demands results, even in chaos.
• You need to start building something for yourself before you lose control.
• Franchising offers a practical path to security, income, and autonomy.
• The best executives don’t wait—they prepare.

“The question isn’t if uncertainty will cost you your seat—it’s whether you’ll be ready when it does.” — Pete Gilfillan

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🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/
🌐 Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/

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