Why Your Best Employee Might Be Your Worst Manager

Why Your Best Employee Might Be Your Worst Manager

Author: Jacob Stone and Maria Williams February 28, 2026 Duration: 14:13

On this week’s episode of The Intentional Workplace, we’re unpacking “Why Your Best Employee Might Be Your Worst Manager.”

Too many organizations promote based on output, not leadership readiness. Being exceptional at doing the work is very different from being responsible for other people doing the work.

In this 15-minute conversation, we discuss: • Why promotions without preparation backfire• How to evaluate leadership potential before handing over a team If you’re scaling a team, building bench strength, or thinking about internal promotions, this one will challenge you—in the best way.

Fifteen minutes.

Two experts.

Intentional work.


Every week, Maria Williams of SaleSmart HR Solutions and Jacob Stone from WorqTap get together for a live conversation that cuts through the noise. Their The Intentional Workplace podcast is built on a simple idea: scaling a company shouldn't mean your culture or your sanity falls apart. Instead of abstract theories, they focus on the tangible, often messy problems that leaders encounter as their teams grow. You’ll hear direct discussions on everything from reshaping talent strategy to implementing HR practices that actually stick, all framed by the latest workplace trends. This isn't about adding more complexity to your day; it's about finding practical clarity. Designed for founders, executives, and HR leaders in the thick of building something, each episode feels like a candid strategy session. Tuning into this podcast means getting actionable insights from two hosts who’ve been in the trenches, helping you build a workplace that works on purpose.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 13

The Intentional Workplace
Podcast Episodes
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