Everyone wants “a seat at the table.” But what’s actually going on in that room — and who gets let in?

In this episode, Lola and Mamuna dissect the mythology around “the room where it happens” (yes, Hamilton fans, this one’s for you). We explore why seniority often requires managing people, how individual contributors hit ceilings, and what it really means to grow in your career without chasing a title.

We break down:

🏛️ What “the room” is and who usually gets in
👥 Why ICs often hit a ceiling — and why that’s not necessarily bad
📊 Why people management is the currency of leadership in most orgs
🎤 How to ask for growth without asking for a promotion
🎭 What Hamilton’s Aaron Burr teaches us about entitlement and access

This one’s part coaching, part clarity. If you’ve ever wondered why your title didn’t get you into the big strategy meeting, this is your backstage pass.

👀 For ambitious ICs, new managers, and anyone wondering what’s behind the closed doors — listen in.