The Bunker – News without the nonsense Grindset influencers and CEO cosplay – Is business bullshit harming the real economy?
Aug 5, 2025
Fiona McQuarrie, Professor Emerita at the School of Business and music journalist with a love for Fountains of Wayne, dives into the grindset mentality. She critiques the relentless hustle culture glorified by influencers like Gary Vee, revealing its dark side—burnout and spiritual emptiness. Fiona discusses the paradox of modern business heroes, critiques oversimplified business literature, and humorously examines student pressures in pursuing wealth. The conversation also highlights how music, particularly from Fountains of Wayne, reflects the emptiness of corporate life.
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The Hollow Grindset Myth
- The grindset mindset glorifies relentless work, self-optimization, and defines success narrowly.
- Despite hype, it often leads to burnout and spiritual emptiness rather than true achievement.
Changing Nature of Work
- Work has shifted from lifelong secure jobs to zero-hour contracts and temp work.
- This shift helps companies cut costs but creates insecurity, changing the CEO's role and business culture.
Social Media’s CEO Facade
- Social media allows CEOs to curate polished, performative business personas detached from reality.
- It prioritizes constant attention-grabbing content over genuine business substance or accountability.
