“I was promoted once… and quickly realized I’m not management material.”
If you’ve ever thought or said those words, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
In this episode, Clay and Adam unpack why so many talented professionals opt out of management and why that decision often has more to do with broken systems than broken people.
We explore the cultural shift that’s made leadership feel more like a trap than a reward, and we ask a better question: What if you’re not management material… yet?
You’ll learn:
Why Gen Z and Millennials are skeptical of traditional management
What “I’m not management material” usually means underneath
How to reframe the role of a manager from a pressure-filled title to a purposeful growth path
Why good managers aren’t born—they’re built
If you’ve ever doubted your place in leadership, this one’s for you.
About Clay Scroggins: Clay Scroggins is a sought-after speaker and leadership coachknown for his practical and engaging approach to leadership. He is the author of three books, most notably How to Lead When You're Not In Charge. With a passion for helping leaders thrive in any environment, Clay brings valuable insights and real-world experience to this podcast and his weekly email. Learn more at ClayScroggins.com
About Adam Tarnow: Adam Tarnow is a recovering CPA and now a partner at PeopleWorks International, where he heads the Leadership Development Practice. He is the co-author of The Edge: How to Stand Out by Showing You're All In and shares his insights on leadership through his Substack, Beyond the Obvious. Learn more at AdamTarnow.com