322 | The Trust Recession: Why Leadership Isn’t Working Like It Used To

Trust is at the center of everything leaders want—but in today’s skeptical, information-saturated world, trust is harder to earn than ever.

In this episode of the LeadCulture Podcast, Jenni Catron sits down with financial coach, business owner, and speaker MJ Pittman for a timely conversation on what he calls the trust recession—and why it places an even greater responsibility on leaders. Together, they unpack why likability isn’t the same as trust, how predictability creates psychological safety, and what leaders often overlook when they assume trust should already exist.

MJ brings a fresh lens by blending financial principles with leadership realities, offering practical frameworks leaders can actually apply. From understanding why trust is rooted in safety—not charisma—to exploring the five questions every person is subconsciously asking before they trust a leader, this conversation challenges leaders to rethink how trust is built, sustained, and repaired.

If you’re leading in uncertain times, navigating team skepticism, or wondering why clarity and consistency matter more than ever, this episode will give you language, insight, and actionable next steps to lead with greater credibility and confidence.

Key takeaways include:

• Why we’re experiencing a “trust recession” in organizations
• The difference between likability and trust—and why it matters
• How predictability builds safety in both calm and stressful seasons
• The five questions people ask before they trust a leader
• Why trust is a learnable leadership skill—not a personality trait

This is a must-listen for leaders who want to strengthen culture, deepen influence, and lead in a way that earns trust over time—not just goodwill in the moment.

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