Episode
311. Are middle managers being set up to fail? With Kristien Turner
- Podcast
- Truth, Lies and Work
- Published
- Jun 18, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3630
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://traffic.megaphone.fm/HS7309911471.mp3
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Summary
Why Are Middle Managers Being Set Up to Fail? (And How to Fix It) with Kristien Turner Are middle managers facing an absolute existential crisis? According to today’s guest, the answer is a resounding, 100% yes. In this episode of Truth, Lies and Work, Al and Leanne sit down with Kristien Turner, founder and CEO of TK Talent Group, who works with global brands across the Americas and Europe to solve the modern talent crisis. Together, they pull back the curtain on why middle managers are drowning under the weight of AI disruption, corporate layoffs, and a severe lack of actual leadership training. If you are a middle manager who feels like they are drowning, or an executive wondering why engagement numbers are plummeting, this episode offers a raw, practical roadmap to reclaiming control of your career and leadership strategy. 🔥 Key Takeaways From This Episode The "Sally" Problem: Companies consistently reward top-performing individual contributors by promoting them into management without giving them a toolkit, a coach, or proper support mechanisms. The AI Illusion: Many organizations are cutting headcount assuming AI can fully replace human roles, failing to realize that technology cannot navigate tricky performance reviews, handle workforce drama, or look a struggling employee in the eye. The 8x8 Structural Trap: Middle managers are stuck acting as an emotional buffer for massive teams (sometimes up to 64 people deep) while running on an empty battery themselves. The Gen Z Shift: A massive shift is occurring where younger generations do not aspire to traditional corporate management roles and prefer gig or portfolio careers, paving the way for a severe leadership skills gap by 2030. The Power of Volunteering: How stepping outside your day job to give back can radica…