Culture and Sexism: Are women allowed to fail fast?

To preface this blog: I love my industry (IT) and my job.   I  have faced little to no overt discrimination or harassment.   That said ...  

After reading an excellent article "Just Being Who We Are Is Extremely Risky" by Fast Company, my mind went back to a recent presentation by Pamela Vickers of Big Nerd Ranch at All Things Open in October 2014.   During the talk on culture, she acknowledged that they stepped away from their "hang out" culture test when they realized it inhibited diversity.   I've been pondering both how brave and insightful she is.  I also ponder how dishonest our industry can be when we talk about "culture".  

My question: "Is your Culture the new Jim Crow?"   Are you using culture competency to keep the status quo?   Do you understand the skills that will lead to success?   Do you hire for them or do you hire shiny veneers?

I have a visceral reaction to "Fail Fast".   I liked the concept and the courage.   However, I see it more often as an excuse to take shortcuts or to dump the consequences on others.   I also wonder if it is only young, white males with hubris who are allowed the second, third, chance.   Interesting article here "Why Silicon Valley's "Fail Fast" Manta is just hype" by Rob Asghar in Forbes.

oh and do we need new music too?