Carter’s Holiday Pick: Truthless
Conspiracy Theories
Deep Dive
Why did The Kid Mero lie about his computer skills to get a job at Lehman Brothers?
Mero wanted a promotion and saw an opening in the IT department, even though he knew nothing about computers. He lied to secure the position, hoping to avoid the more physically demanding work in the mailroom.
How did The Kid Mero manage to keep his IT job for two years despite knowing nothing about computers?
Mero avoided doing actual IT work by focusing on paperwork and using his marijuana use as an excuse not to handle technical tasks. He also traded favors with coworkers, offering them weed in exchange for covering for his lack of skills.
What event ultimately saved The Kid Mero from potential exposure at Lehman Brothers?
The 9/11 terrorist attacks, which forced Lehman Brothers to relocate its headquarters, allowing Mero to move back to the mailroom without anyone discovering his lack of IT expertise.
Why did The Kid Mero eventually quit his job at Lehman Brothers?
Mero quit because the commute to the new location in Jersey City was inconvenient and he didn't want to socialize with his high-earning colleagues after work, preferring to spend time with his friends in the Bronx.
What was the financial environment like at Lehman Brothers before the 2008 financial crash?
The environment at Lehman Brothers was characterized by excessive spending, entitlement, and a culture of magical thinking. Employees flaunted expensive items and engaged in reckless behavior, contributing to the eventual collapse.
How did The Kid Mero view his time at Lehman Brothers in relation to the broader financial crisis?
Mero wasn't surprised by the financial crash, having witnessed the waste and unrealistic expectations within the company. He felt that the industry's focus on excess and lies contributed to its downfall.
What is the significance of the Icarus story in relation to The Kid Mero's experience at Lehman Brothers?
The Icarus story, as interpreted by Brian Phillips, suggests that regular people like Mero get caught up in larger events beyond their control. Mero's experience mirrors Icarus's, where he navigated a complex environment and made choices that allowed him to escape unscathed.
- Daedalus and Icarus's mythological story of ambition and downfall.
- Introduction to The Kid Mero's background and his entry into Lehman Brothers.