A prominent US business leader has ignited a massive online discussion after revealing she fired two employees for having an extramarital affair, describing such behavior as a significant liability for her company.
The Controversial Decision
Natalie Dawson, who serves as president of Cardone Ventures, made this startling revelation during her appearance on the popular 'The Diary of a CEO' podcast. The executive explained that she immediately terminated both employees upon discovering they were romantically involved with each other while being in committed relationships with other people outside the workplace.
"As soon as I caught wind of it, it wasn't even a split-second decision," Dawson told podcast host Steven Bartlett during their conversation. "I can't have this in my environment, especially someone close around me."
Personal Ethics Reflect Professional Behavior
When questioned whether she would dismiss an employee solely for cheating on their partner, Dawson responded with absolute certainty. "Absolutely. I can't have cheaters," she stated firmly. "If they will cheat on the person they're supposed to spend their life with, do you think they won't cheat on their work? Or on our clients? That person is a liability."
The business leader articulated her belief that personal ethics directly influence professional conduct. "If somebody has a problem in their personal life, they are the same person who shows up to work," Dawson emphasized, adding that she considers it her responsibility to safeguard the company's culture and values.
Social Media Divided
Dawson's remarks triggered intense debate across social media platforms, with users sharply divided on her approach to workplace management.
One supporter commented, "Never do business with a cheater... If they can cheat on the most important person in their life, imagine what they'd do behind your back."
However, another user strongly criticized Dawson's management style, labeling it as "power-drunk management." They argued, "If they're doing their jobs and on time, why should a manager interfere in their personal relationships? Trying to control people's lives just because they work for you is narcissistic behaviour."
A third participant offered a more balanced perspective, noting: "She's saying personal integrity reflects how someone will behave at work — if you betray your partner, you might betray your employer too."
Other social media users expressed varying opinions, with one writing "Morals and values over everything," while another stated: "At the end of the day, her company her rules. She gets to decide what values she wants to upkeep within her premises, under her watch. A leader with principle."
About Cardone Ventures
Dawson co-founded Cardone Ventures in 2019 alongside her husband, renowned entrepreneur Grant Cardone. The company operates as a management consulting and private equity firm and has experienced remarkable growth since its establishment, reporting impressive revenues of $225 million.
The ongoing debate raises important questions about where employers should draw the line between monitoring workplace behavior and respecting employees' private lives, a discussion particularly relevant in today's increasingly interconnected professional environments.
