What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?

Every industry has its myths—stories insiders repeat until they sound like truth. But behind the slogans and the spin are unspoken (and sometimes unnoticed) realities – we asked some of the wisest folks we know to share what lies they’ve noticed in their industries.

Tess Maribao

That self-promotion has to look like bragging, or worse, humblebragging. You know the kind: “I’m so grateful to be so busy,” or “I can’t believe I was chosen for this amazing opportunity.” Cue the invisible back-patting. The truth is, people are far too smart for that now. Read more>>

Cedric Gegel

That Paddington 2 isn’t the most perfect film ever made. Kidding (kinda). Honestly, there’s the obvious answers – beauty standards, etc, which are important to discuss because it’s shockingly easy to develop body dysmorphia in this industry. Read more>>

Eric D

That followers equal worth or talent. That you have to look and act a certain way to be successful. It’s 2026, we are all independently able to create art and share it with the world. There are no more rules. The only restrictions are what you put on yourself. Read more>>

Vita DeVoid

If you really really want something, and you work so very hard, you’ll get it!’ Absolute lie for the entertainment industry. Sometimes, it’s more about meeting the right person who sees a spark in you that they either love, or know how to exploit. Sometimes it’s being in the right room. Sometimes it’s sheer dumb luck. Read more>>

Nikkole Hall

One of the biggest lies in this industry is that popularity equals talent. The truth is, hype, algorithms, and trends often overshadow real artistry. Another lie is that success comes overnight…the idea that you just need to ‘go viral’ or post the right thing. Read more>>

Triet Nguyen

One of the biggest lies our industry tells itself is that new technology “won’t work” or that “no one asked for it.” I hear that every time something new emerges—whether it’s virtual reality, augmented reality, or now artificial intelligence—and it often discourages creators from taking meaningful risks. I’ve learned to approach technology as a tool, not a threat. Read more>>

David Hicok

One of the biggest lies the financial industry tells itself is that money is mostly about numbers. We like to believe that if the spreadsheets are right, the outcome will be right. But in my experience, money is far more emotional than mathematical. Fear, identity, family dynamics, past experiences—those forces shape financial decisions far more than interest rates or asset allocation models ever will. Read more>>