This is an incredibly insightful post that truly explores the complexities involved in managing a tech team. I admire the way you've brought clarity to the different roles and responsibilities of a Tech Lead and an Engineering Manager, a distinction that is often blurred in many organizations. I also appreciate your emphasis on the importance of trust and communication, which are indeed vital for any successful team. Your point on communication complexity scaling quadratically is particularly thought-provoking, and it makes a compelling case for the division of labor you propose. It's a great reminder that as a team grows, so too must the structures that support it. The visual representation of team size vs communication interconnections brings an additional layer of understanding. Lastly, your exploration of the TLM role is a fresh perspective that challenges conventional wisdom. Thanks for sharing these valuable insights.