In a candid conversation on the Pivot Podcast, actor Anthony Mackie delivered a powerful and thought-provoking statement:

“We’re lying to our kids… success is given, it’s not earned.”

This bold declaration sparked an engaging discussion with hosts Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder about the realities of success in today’s world. Mackie’s words challenge the long-standing belief that hard work alone guarantees success. Instead, he argues that opportunity—not just effort or talent—is the true determinant of who rises to the top.

For generations, parents, teachers, and mentors have instilled in children the idea that if they study hard, stay disciplined, and excel in their fields, success will naturally follow. Mackie, however, suggests that this narrative doesn’t always align with reality. While talent and hard work are important, access, exposure, and networks often play an even greater role in determining who gets ahead.

This is a tough point to make. He’s not saying to not work hard. He’s saying that somewhere long the line somebody with influence picks and chooses who they give opportunities to. He’s arguing against the idea that solely hard work gets you there.

— Jon Fields (@TheeJonFields) March 12, 2025

A HARD TRUTH ABOUT SOCIETY

His statement highlights a hard truth: Many highly skilled and intelligent individuals never achieve mainstream success simply because they aren’t in the right rooms or don’t have the right connections. Meanwhile, others with fewer credentials or less talent can soar, thanks to opportunities they were given.

This perspective resonates deeply in industries like entertainment, sports, and business, where nepotism, favoritism, and systemic barriers often dictate who gets a seat at the table. Mackie’s own journey as an actor has likely given him firsthand insight into these challenges, making his words even more compelling.

WAKE UP CALL?

The conversation on Pivot Podcast challenges listeners to rethink the way we define and pursue success. It forces us to ask: Are we preparing young people for the real world, or selling them an outdated dream? How can we create more pathways for success that aren’t solely based on privilege or access?

Mackie’s words serve as both a wake-up call and a challenge—one that encourages us to shift the conversation from simply working hard to also working smart, building connections, and recognizing the deeper structures that shape success.

What do you think? Is success truly given, or is there still space for those who earn it? Join the conversation.

SOCIAL MEDIA REACTION

I didn’t debate that, I am siply saying that when we break it down it really isn’t up to us. There should be something liberating In that, not destructive. Almost as if you should try your hardest and leave it in the hands of the universe

— internet kay (@internetkay) March 12, 2025

Went over ppls heads or they want to believe they control all their outcomes. Same ppl will complain about nepotism and favoritism. You should always work hard to be prepared for the opportunities life presents.

— Kevin Norant (@SledgeTheHammer) March 12, 2025

No this is telling people the truth and telling them to prioritize networking. It’s not about what you know but who you know.

— TheBackHandofTruth🇺🇸 (@backhandoftruth) March 12, 2025

Yep, perpetuating victim mentality. You have to decide what your own version of success looks like and find your own opportunities. If one thing doesn’t work, find another way. If the opportunities aren’t where you are, go somewhere else.

— Julie B (@thatbernerlife) March 12, 2025