#United States #Las Vegas #TaChelle Lawson #Corporate Culture #Outrage Economy

America's Corporate Culture Forecast 2026

As the calendar inches closer to 2026, corporate America finds itself entrenched in a landscape defined by cultural instability. Esteemed Executive Advisor TaChelle Lawson has compelling insights on this evolving situation, noting that the outrage economy is not on the horizon but very much a current reality.

In a bold forecast, Lawson emphasizes that businesses are already navigating this tumultuous terrain, with predictions that the chaos will only escalate in the coming year. The publication of her new book, Culture Crisis Inside America's Outrage Economy, slated for release in February 2026, promises to delve into the depths of this phenomenon.

A Look Back at Lawson’s Predictions

Lawson’s record of foresight is remarkable. In recent years, she has repeatedly alerted corporate leaders about the consequences of their actions in the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Back in 2020, while many firms were eager to project progressive stances through DEI statements, Lawson was quick to warn of an expiration date on these performative acts. Subsequent events proved her right, as backlash and repercussions became evident.

By 2023, she anticipated a governmental reduction in federal DEI initiatives and funding under a Republican administration, and in 2024, she predicted a backlash against corporations withdrawing their public commitments. Each of her forecasts has materialized, validating her expertise.

Lawson emphasizes, “If you're a betting person, bet on me. When it comes to culture, outrage, and corporate risk, my record speaks for itself.” Such confidence sets the stage for her extensive insights in the soon-to-be-released forecast.

Key Areas of Focus in the 2026 Forecast

The upcoming 2026 forecast outlines seven critical flashpoints that Lawson identifies as pivotal for businesses to understand and navigate:
1. Symbolic Statements
Actions that may provoke external backlash and intensify public scrutiny.
2. Internal Radicalization
A shift from mere activism to potential insurrection within corporate entities.
3. Political Loyalty Tests
Brands may face challenges stemming from election-related pressures and political allegiances.
4. Boycotts as Currency
Understanding how consumer boycotts can alter a company’s financial landscape.
5. Consequences of Silence
The dangers of “no comment” in a heated cultural climate.
6. DEI Reversals
The risks accompanying a retreat from DEI commitments versus the hazards of doubling down without a plan.
7. New Accountability Standards
Scrutiny of executives and the potential for cancel culture impacting their tenure.

Lawson warns that the outrage economy represents a significant shift in power dynamics, where influence is no longer isolated to traditional authority figures within corporations. “The Outrage Economy is very real,” she asserts. “And in it, anyone can have power, not just the traditionally powerful.”

Upcoming Briefings and Book Release

For those keen on delving deeper into these insights, Lawson is organizing a limited number of private Forecast Briefings in the fourth quarter of 2025. These sessions, designed for enterprise teams and corporate boards, promise to provide invaluable guidance leading into a potentially perilous 2026. However, availability is only open until December 12, 2025.

Additionally, as a trusted advisor with a direct approach to navigating cultural and political complexity, Lawson’s upcoming book, Culture Crisis Inside America's Outrage Economy, is expected to be a must-read for corporate leaders.

For inquiries into interviews, access to review copies, or booking requests for upcoming events, interested parties can reach out to Jani Nelson-Medija for further assistance.

Conclusion

As America's corporate culture prepares for the incoming wave of challenges in 2026, TaChelle Lawson's insights will be essential for navigating the uncertain terrain ahead. Companies aiming to remain resilient in this new era must stay attuned to the evolving dynamics of the outrage economy and prepare thoroughly for what lies ahead.