The Huddle
What’s top of mind for us this week? Rebuilding. Between career shifts, layoffs, and leadership changes, it’s clear that people are reassessing their networks and paths forward. Greg wrote about the importance of rebuilding professional connections, and Brett reconnected with an old colleague through Chicago Camps’ Tent Talk—proving that sometimes, the right conversations happen at the right time.
The Review: This Week’s Topic
The middle management trap: why it’s failing and how to fix it
Middle management used to be the stepping stone to leadership. Now? It’s a high-stress, low-reward role that no one wants. Companies are piling impossible expectations onto managers while stripping away the resources and training they need to succeed.
We break down three key questions:
- What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before stepping into management? Leadership is more than just delegation—it’s about navigating impossible expectations with little guidance.
- Why are future leaders avoiding management roles? Gen Z sees the burnout cycle and wants no part of it. Who can blame them?
- How do we fix it? Companies need clear leadership expectations, structured training, and actual support for managers—not just vague platitudes about ‘leading with empathy.’
We also published two new Teamangle articles this week:
- How shared language enhances team cohesion
- Avoid misinterpretations: developing a shared language for your team
The Ask
We’re launching our Same Team Partners newsletter!
If you want real talk about leadership, team dynamics, and communication—delivered straight to your inbox—subscribe now at sameteampartners.com/subscribe. Our first issue drops Tuesday!
The Hit List
What we’re reading, writing, listening to, and watching this week:
Reading:
- Superagency: What Could Possibly Go Right with Our AI Future by Reid Hoffman – A deep dive into how AI might shape the future (for better or worse).
Writing:
- DOGE isn’t making government more efficient—it’s just destroying people’s lives – Brett’s latest take on leadership failures and the ripple effects of reckless decision-making.
- Your network is broken. Fix it like a human. – Greg’s guide to reconnecting in a time when professional networks feel tapped out.
Watching:
- Yellowstone – Greg finally dives into the cowboy drama.
- Pivoting in Life: How to Use Your Transferable Skills with Betty Chan & Sean Murphy – A timely LinkedIn video on career shifts and reinvention.
Listening:
- Finally Enough Love: 50 Number Ones by Madonna – Who knew she had 50 #1 hits? Brett is rediscovering the magic.
The High Five
This week’s high five goes to Kris Fulton!
Kris has been a game-changer in helping us refine our marketing strategy. We’re makers, not marketers—but she is showing us the way. Huge high-five for the impact Kris has already made! Thank you!
