[John2022]

Surely there’s a German word for this - framing a weakness as if it contributed to the success.

I’ve seen it in so many talks, especially from people working in big tech. Something is a success in spite of some aspect of it, and those responsible for that aspect go on speaking tours about their journey and what we mere mortals can learn from them.

[domschl]

Try "Lobhudelei"

[peepee1982]

I'm a native German speaker. "Lobhudelei" doesn't fit for me, as I would rather translate it as "schmoozing" or "glazing".

"Schönreden" is the closest I can think of on the spot.

[canadiantim]

Well, not German but there is the tale of the fox who lost its tail and framed it as a good thing