Behind the Curtain: The Raw Truth About Power and Influence

Leadership is rarely what it looks like on the surface.

We’re bombarded with polished quotes, tidy frameworks, and stories of self-made success. We’re told to “lead with authenticity” and “work hard and be seen”—as if influence naturally follows merit. But if you’ve been in a boardroom long enough, you know the truth isn’t that neat.

Real leadership isn’t just about what’s said—it’s about what’s left unsaid. It’s about knowing where decisions are made, who really holds power, and how to move through the system without being devoured by it.