The Hidden Power of Middle Management
Fri Feb 06 2026
The Hidden Power of Middle Management
Hosts: Mervyn Dinnen
Guest: Gary Cookson,
Summary
In this episode of the HR Means Business podcast, host Mervyn Dinnen speaks with Gary Cookson about the often-overlooked role of middle managers in organizations. They discuss the challenges faced by middle managers, including the emotional labor they perform, the invisible work that goes unrecognized, and the need for better preparation and support. The conversation emphasizes the importance of middle managers in navigating change, particularly in the context of AI and hybrid working environments. They also highlight the need for organizations to redefine the role of middle managers and empower them to create a positive impact on workplace culture and performance.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Middle Management Dynamics
05:15 The Emotional Reality of Middle Management
10:05 Invisible Work and Its Impact
13:21 Navigating Change and Uncertainty
21:18 Adapting to AI and Hybrid Work
25:18 Transforming Perspectives on Middle Management
27:21 The New Manager Bounce and Its Implications
Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!
The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.
The role of HR is changing fast—and the leaders who move beyond administration into true business leadership will have the edge. Workhuman Live is where that shift becomes real. Four transformative days in Orlando built around the challenges HR leaders are facing now. With 65-plus standout speakers, you'll get practical, research-backed insights you can use immediately, honest conversations with leaders under the same pressure, and a human-first experience designed to energize – not exhaust. It's why 93% of past attendees left inspired—and why you need to be there this April 27-30. Register now at WorkhumanLive.com and use code HRHAPPYHOUR before February 2/28 to save 20%. That's HRHAPPYHOUR, all one word.
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The Hidden Power of Middle Management Hosts: Mervyn Dinnen Guest: Gary Cookson, Summary In this episode of the HR Means Business podcast, host Mervyn Dinnen speaks with Gary Cookson about the often-overlooked role of middle managers in organizations. They discuss the challenges faced by middle managers, including the emotional labor they perform, the invisible work that goes unrecognized, and the need for better preparation and support. The conversation emphasizes the importance of middle managers in navigating change, particularly in the context of AI and hybrid working environments. They also highlight the need for organizations to redefine the role of middle managers and empower them to create a positive impact on workplace culture and performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Middle Management Dynamics 05:15 The Emotional Reality of Middle Management 10:05 Invisible Work and Its Impact 13:21 Navigating Change and Uncertainty 21:18 Adapting to AI and Hybrid Work 25:18 Transforming Perspectives on Middle Management 27:21 The New Manager Bounce and Its Implications Thank you for your continued support of the show and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman. The role of HR is changing fast—and the leaders who move beyond administration into true business leadership will have the edge. Workhuman Live is where that shift becomes real. Four transformative days in Orlando built around the challenges HR leaders are facing now. With 65-plus standout speakers, you'll get practical, research-backed insights you can use immediately, honest conversations with leaders under the same pressure, and a human-first experience designed to energize – not exhaust. It's why 93% of past attendees left inspired—and why you need to be there this April 27-30. Register now at WorkhumanLive.com and use code HRHAPPYHOUR before February 2/28 to save 20%. That's HRHAPPYHOUR, all one word.