
Truth, Lies and Work · 2026-06-18 · 1h 1m
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.