
In this powerful debut episode of Business Backstage, I sit down with leadership development expert Gayle Thompson to explore a subject every tech entrepreneur needs to understand – the silent ROI of developing your line managers before it's too late.
From training engineers on how to use computers in 1990s South Africa to working in castles, prisons, and sheep farms, Gayle brings a colourful, deeply insightful lens to what it really takes to build effective managers in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.
In this episode, we cover: The red flags founders miss when poor management is hurting their startup Why middle managers are your organisation’s most underdeveloped asset What happens when leadership is left to chance How to build a pipeline of leaders without burning people out Why psychological safety is non-negotiable The messy reality of career development in modern teams Whether you’re a founder, people manager, or someone figuring out their place in a growing tech company, this conversation is packed with real stories, practical advice, and sharp truths.
Featuring: Gayle Thompson – Leadership Consultant, Trainer, and Developer of VILT: Virtual Intelligent Leadership Transformation
🎙 Hosted by #bukolaosuntuyi Founder & Host, Business Backstage