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.
Nicole Toledo
I think the beauty industry should be one that promotes extra confidence, self expression, self care, & creativity. Instead, I do feel that it creates a feeling of everyone needing to look the same and there only being one standard of beauty. . Read more>>
Jacob Bryant
The biggest lie that the EDM industry tells its people is that this scene is built on Peace, Love, Unity, Respect, Responsibility. That couldn’t be any further from the truth. This scene is treated as a clout contest, a booking contest, and more. Read more>>
Kathleen Hooper & Aubrey Lane
The music industry tells itself (and all artists for that matter) that streaming numbers, followers and viral social posts equate to success. We believe that our worth is connected to a different narrative. We’ve seen firsthand how limiting and exhausting chasing algorithms can be, especially for independent, female-identifying artists. We’re here to build real connection. Read more>>
Sarah Mount
That one must be absolutely flawless at all times to deserve a place in the industry. Humans are imperfect creatures by nature, and chasing perfection is part of being an artist. While technical skill is appreciated, the connection through emotional honesty conveyed by the musicians are often what resonate most deeply with listeners. Read more>>
Jordan Slemmer
The biggest lie our industry tells itself is that there’s a ‘correct’ way to do things. The art world can feel stifled by outdated systems and rigid expectations, but creativity doesn’t follow rules. As a gallery director once told me, ‘…there is no gospel in this realm of work.’ That resonated with me. Read more>>
Melissa Armstrong
One of the biggest lies the health industry tells itself—and the public—is that true health comes from a pill or a procedure. As a former RN, I witnessed firsthand how the system often focuses on managing symptoms rather than fostering real healing. The industry, intentionally or not, can keep people stuck in cycles of chronic illness instead of addressing root causes. Read more>>
Danielle Uhl
The way social media and marketing sells the ease, luxury, and instant gratification of starting your own business. So many new business owners, including myself, fall for these lies because it is the sexy desire we all want to some extent in business—doing what you love, gaining freedom, creating financial stability and success, and making the impact you want to make. Read more>>
Nakoma Garcia
One of the biggest lies the counseling industry tells itself is that healing happens solely through talk therapy, in 50-minute sessions, using cognitive insight as the primary tool for transformation. While traditional therapy has its place, trauma isn’t just stored in thoughts—it’s embedded in the body, the nervous system, and even the spirit. Read more>>
Mariam Molake
I might be skirting the question a bit, but I think one of the biggest lies in holistic healing isn’t always an intentional lie, it’s more of a widespread misunderstanding. Or maybe even a lack of curiosity. Read more>>
