Over dinner the other night, a friend and I started talking about AI. She asked what I was working on, expecting something about efficiency or automation. I told her I was more interested in using AI to help leaders build stronger connections – trust, presence, follow-through.

She paused and said, “That’s not what I expected.”

That surprised her. What surprised me was how naturally the conversation shifted from AI to something deeper: culture. Not the kind companies post on their websites, but the kind you can feel in the room.

The Culture Facade

Because culture has become one of those words people reach for when they’re trying to say their business is healthy. But sometimes, it’s not.

Sometimes, culture becomes a cover story.

I’ve walked into businesses that talk about culture constantly. People know the “right” words to say. There’s a framed list of values in the front lobby. But if you spend a little time there, something feels off.

The team is guarded. Energy is flat. Decisions are sticky. And under the surface, culture isn’t being cultivated. It’s being used to cover what’s not being said.

Four Warning Signs Your Culture Has Become A Cover Story

Here are a few signs I’ve learned to look for:

1. “We’re like a family” is used to avoid accountability.

Closeness becomes a reason not to speak directly. Caring turns into tiptoeing. Real trust doesn’t mean avoiding hard conversations. It means you can have them.

2. Emotional language replaces financial clarity.

There’s talk about values, mission, purpose – but no one’s talking about pricing, margins, or cash flow. Culture isn’t a substitute for revenue discipline. It should make it easier to talk about what matters.

3. The values on the wall don’t match what gets rewarded.

If “integrity” is posted in the hallway but speed or loyalty is what actually earns praise, the culture splits. People learn fast that what’s said isn’t what’s real.

4. Leaders stop noticing the drift.

Meetings are full. Metrics are tracked. Everyone’s busy. But connection starts to slip. Language becomes scripted. People start performing culture instead of living it.

Show. Don’t Tell.

Here’s what I’ve learned: ”Culture isn’t something you say. It’s something you show.” And when you’re under pressure, it reveals what’s really there.

Uncover What’s Really Happening in Your Culture

If these warning signs feel familiar, you’re not alone. Let’s have an honest conversation about what’s happening beneath the surface of your organization’s culture. Book a complimentary 1-hour clarity conversation where we can identify what’s really going on and map a path forward. No pressure, no pitch. Just clarity.

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