"Our culture has become so inverted, we believe, without thinking much about it, that perks and privileges are a natural right of those in power."

"Therein lies the mistake leaders make and good courtiers, if you’re lucky enough to have one, point out."

"And it’s in the small things that the rot starts. Do the wrong thing once, it’s easier to do it again."

"it’s in the small things that the rot starts."

"There was more rot to come."

"A few more C-level princes and some more rot later, the company slid into a version of bankruptcy."

"It’s not a case of no one sees it coming. Almost everyone sees it coming. Just like those who bothered to pay attention had long predicted a global pandemic was a real and legitimate threat."

"Anyone can see flames and smoke, feel the earthquake tremors and observe the resulting cracks in the foundation."

"Try this: work on developing a sixth sense for spotting the rot and anticipating if it will take hold."

"Power is responsibility."

"Buying into the increasingly pervasive idea that it’s a privilege, is pure rot."