The Untold Truths: Navigating Successes and Struggles
As a producer, I like to share insights from behind the curtains - what really goes on in the trenches of production. I do this because I wish people had shared these kinds of stories when I was starting out. It’s also the reason I started the Make The Logo Bigger podcast. To reveal the realities of the industry, helping newcomers find their footing and also let them know that real shit happens with nearly every single job.
So a while ago, I worked on a project with a great company. The crew was outstanding, the execution was strong, and overall, it was a success. When I shared about the job, I thought I was simply stating the facts: the job went well, the team was stellar and as with any project - there were challenges along the way.
Because no matter the budget or lead time hurdles always ensue. It’s just part of the game.
But not everyone saw it that way. The company I contracted for wasn’t happy that I mentioned any challenges at all. They felt it could be perceived negatively. Ironically, the actual clients - the people the job was for - engaged with the post positively. They even ‘liked’ it.
So it raises a bigger question: When we share about our work, does it always have to be all rainbows and sunshine? Should we not be sharing real insights that help others? Or is posting on LinkedIn just about ‘selling’ your brand?
Scroll through LinkedIn, and you’ll see a sea of posts starting with “Honoured to have worked on this” or “So grateful to have done this job.” There’s nothing wrong with that. Hell, I’ve posted my fair share of those too. But what if we added some honesty? Something like “So grateful to have not lost the plot with this awesome job and crew”?
I See the Other Side Too
At the same time, I get why companies take this stance. Your business and reputation are everything. A single post that’s interpreted the wrong way can cause issues.
I was reminded of this the other day when my partner was speaking with her mentor about her own business and the people who work in it. The mentor advised that contracts should explicitly state that employees or contractors can only post positive things about their work. And I get it. I hear about my partners struggles that come with running a thriving business and I wouldn’t want my her to deal with another layer of unnecessary negativity either - especially knowing how incredible she is and how much effort she puts into what she’s built.
So I understand the need to control the narrative.
Does Transparency Matter in 2025?
After 26 episodes of the podcast, I've found that the most engaging moments aren't when guests share polished successes. Instead, it's when they discuss the real experiences. The specifics, the roadblocks, the creative problem solving and the times they had to pivot.
In 2025, don’t we want more transparency? Shouldn't we be discussing the challenges we face and how we navigate them? Isn't that more valuable than another perfectly curated highlight reel?
As Brené Brown stated, "Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are." Perhaps I lean too far in that direction. Or maybe not.
What do you think? Where do you draw the line between authenticity and professionalism?
