That's them! Specifically part I (the three layers of hierarchy) and part V (how the top layer manipulates the middle layer, leaving them with all the blame and none of the credit).
$100K by being a more savvy operator within office politics?
Yes. Specifically, by understanding that the ladder is a trap and looking for the backdoor.
What was the backdoor?
Low estimate over long enough timeline.
Oh I definitely believe you -- just confirming my read of your statement was correct.