
Generations at Work
136 episodes — Page 1 of 3
036: 11 Experiences All Gen Z Employees Need for Growth (Part 2)
#035: 11 Experiences All Gen Z Employees Need for Growth (Part 1)
034: HR & the Emerging Workforce feat. SHRM CEO Johnny C. Taylor Jr.
033: From Transactions to Purpose: How to Ignite Gen Z's Ambition
032: Inside the Mind of a Gen Z Professional
In this episode of Generations at Work, Dr. Tim Elmore and Susan welcome guest Colin Webb to explore the mindset of a young professional and serial entrepreneur. Colin shares his leadership journey from high school through MIT, his experiences at General Motors, and his leap into building tech startups—highlighting both the opportunities and challenges faced by Gen Z in traditional corporate environments. The conversation covers... how Gen Z professionals approach career choices the importance of trust, inspiration, and being believed in at work what established companies can do to attract and empower emerging talent Discover how to foster generational collaboration and adapt leadership styles for the changing workforce! If you want to learn how to bridge generational gaps and inspire the next wave of leaders, this episode offers candid stories and actionable takeaways. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z
031: Navigating Gen Z's High Expectations in Today's Workforce
In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore tackle the pressing issue of unrealistic expectations among Gen Z employees entering the workforce. Drawing insights from Dr. Elmore's latest book, they discuss how social media, parenting styles, and shifts in views on authority have shaped Gen Z's mindset about work and leadership. The conversation highlights the importance of clear communication, connection, and feedback to bridge the gap between employer expectations and Gen Z's aspirations. Packed with powerful stories, memorable metaphors, and actionable tips, the episode encourages leaders to slow down, listen well, and guide young professionals toward growth—ultimately helping organizations uncover the unique strengths and fresh perspectives Gen Z brings to the modern workplace. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z
030: Rethinking Productivity: Burnout, Wellbeing, and Generational Shifts on the Job
In this episode, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by special guest Brooke Dukes, bestselling author of Burn On, Not Out. The trio explore the realities of burnout across different generations in the workplace, challenging the outdated notion that burnout is solely an individual resilience issue. Through Brooke Dukes's personal story and research, the episode highlights how generational mindsets influence attitudes toward work, fulfillment, and wellbeing. Listeners gain insights into shifting workplace expectations, recognizing systemic causes of burnout, and learning practical strategies for leaders to foster a more aligned, energized workforce. With actionable advice for both leaders and employees, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to create healthier, more productive multigenerational teams. Discover how to work from rest, not without it, when you get your copy of Brooke Dukes' book, Burn On, Not Out
029: Practical Ways to Cultivate a Workplace Culture of Belonging
In this episode of the Generations at Work podcast, Dr. Tim Elmore is joined by Dov Baron explore how organizations can foster meaningful connections across generational divides to build a culture of belonging in the workplace. Dov introduces insights from his new book, "The Art of Belonging," emphasizing the critical distinction between fitting in and genuine belonging. They tackle the challenges of remote work, rising isolation, and the impact of technology and AI on human relationships, offering practical strategies to create environments where healthy friction and diversity of thought spark innovation. Listeners will find actionable ideas for leaders to facilitate community, encourage authenticity, and unlock the creative potential of multi-generational teams—making this episode an essential listen for anyone seeking to strengthen workplace relationships and drive lasting engagement. Get more practical culture tips at DovBaron.com
028: Creating an Irresistible Workplace: How to Retain Top Talent from Every Generation
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Dr. Tim Elmore welcomes special guest William Vanderbloemen to explore how organizations can create workplace cultures so phenomenal that the organization is irresistible to all generations. William shares his journey from pastor to founder of Vanderbloemen Search Group and discusses insights from his books Culture Wins and Be the Unicorn. Together, they unpack the key habits that set top performers apart, highlight the importance of cultivating a strong organizational culture, and discuss practical ways to leverage generational strengths and communication styles on teams. The episode is full of actionable advice on creating environments where every generation—from Gen Z to Boomers—can thrive, as well as strategies leaders can use to better understand themselves and those they lead. If you want practical wisdom on building high-performing, multigenerational teams, this conversation is essential listening. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z Discover your strength zone when you take the Vander Index assessment
027: Why Gen Z Faces Rising Anxiety and How Leaders Can Help
In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore explore practical strategies for supporting Gen Z and addressing mental health issues in the modern workplace. They discuss the impact of technology, social isolation, and workplace culture on anxiety and depression among young employees. The conversation covers recognizable symptoms of mental health struggles, root causes like smartphone overuse and loneliness, and actionable steps leaders can take—from creating psychologically safe environments and encouraging community, to fostering movement and work-life margin. Highlighting the importance of empathy and compassionate leadership, the episode offers guidance for leaders intent on equipping their teams to grow stronger through adversity, making this a must-listen for anyone managing or mentoring across generations. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z
026: From Cancel Culture to Resilience: Strategies for Leading Gen Z Employees
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore take a deep dive into the challenges of leading and engaging Generation Z in today's workplace. They explore how feedback, conflict, and evaluations have evolved across generations, emphasizing the importance of resilience, psychological safety, and connecting before correcting. The conversation offers practical strategies for managing conflict, giving constructive feedback, and navigating sensitive topics with younger employees, while highlighting the broader cultural shifts affecting both leaders and teams. Listeners will find actionable steps and resources for further growth. Don't miss this episode if you're aiming to bridge generational gaps at work! Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend
025: How to Turn Gen Z From Job Renters to Job Owners
In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore explore research-backed strategies for building authentic connections, discuss the impact of generational differences on authority and engagement, and emphasize the importance of moving from an "enforcer" or "protector" mindset to that of a mentor. The conversation features practical advice for fostering ownership, flexibility, and a strong sense of value among younger employees, alongside real-world examples and actionable tips that organizations can use to combat disengagement, quiet quitting, and high turnover. If you're looking for fresh, practical ways to bridge generational gaps and tap into the potential of the emerging workforce, this episode delivers key insights for leaders at every level. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend
024: Keeping Gen Z Engaged: Culture, Mentorship, and Meaningful Work
In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore explore effective strategies for attracting and retaining Generation Z employees in the workplace. Drawing from Dr. Elmore's new book The Future Begins with Z, they discuss the unique challenges employers face with Gen Z's changing attitudes toward entry-level work, higher rates of job-hopping, and the importance of workplace culture and leadership style. They're also joined by Adrienne Kelly, a Gen Z member of the workforce, who shares her firsthand experience transitioning into the workforce, highlighting how culture, mission, and meaningful connections with leaders shaped her commitment to stay. This episode offers practical insights for leaders—including the value of moving from a gatekeeper to a mentor mindset, fostering open communication, and creating a welcoming, growth-oriented environment—to ensure Gen Z feels engaged, valued, and motivated to remain with their organizations. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z — https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=g@w_libsyn_24 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend — https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_24
023: Earning the Right: Relationship-Driven Feedback Across Generations
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis & Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by leadership expert Jeff Hancher to explore the crucial role of feedback in multi-generational workplaces. The conversation delves into the nuances of delivering effective feedback across generational lines, highlighting differences in how Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z perceive and respond to feedback. Jeff Hancher shares insights from his book, Firm Feedback in a Fragile World, emphasizing the importance of building trust, understanding expectations, and customizing feedback approaches for individual team members. The episode is filled with actionable tips for leaders looking to foster a culture of meaningful feedback, strengthen team relationships, and create environments where all generations can thrive. If you're eager to improve feedback dynamics across all ages in your organization, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Discover the 5 most impactful questions to ask in your one-on-ones with Jeff Hancher's free leadership resource, the Leader's Conversation Guide: https://www.jeffhancher.com/post/leader-s-conversation-guide-elevate-your-leadership-through-impactful-conversations/?el=g@w_libsyn_23 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_23
022: From Multitasking to Innovation: The Gen Z Edge in Today's Workforce
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by restaurant owner John Craze to explore the unique strengths and challenges that Gen Z team members bring to the workplace. Drawing from his experience managing a large team of young employees at Chick-fil-A, John Craze discusses the importance of flexibility, engagement, and care in retaining Gen Z workers. The conversation highlights Gen Z's ability to multitask, adapt quickly, and contribute creatively, especially in fast-paced service environments. The episode also covers practical strategies for fostering a supportive work culture, offering stories of how empowering young employees leads to meaningful growth and results. Discover actionable ideas for leveraging Gen Z's talents! Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend
021: Rethinking Leadership: Connecting with Gen Z's Agency and Diversity
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis and guest Dr. Tim Elmore explore key insights from Dr. Elmore's upcoming book, The Future Begins with Z, focusing on how Generation Z is shaping the modern workplace. They discuss Gen Z's unique blend of agency and anxiety, increasing workplace diversity, evolving gender and identity perspectives, and the generation's entrepreneurial mindset. Through engaging stories and research-backed predictions, Dr. Elmore encourages leaders to move beyond frustration, foster curiosity, and embrace the "masterpiece inside" Gen Z employees by shifting from control to connection and from telling what to do to sharing why. Packed with practical leadership shifts and eye-opening anecdotes, this episode offers valuable guidance for anyone looking to bridge generational gaps and harness the potential of younger team members. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=yt_g@w_21 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=yt_g@w_21
020: Grace and Grit: The Art of Mentoring Young Leaders
In this episode of the Generations at Work podcast, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore sit down with renowned UCLA coach Sue Enquist to explore strategies for growing into a powerful mentor for the next generation of team members. Sue shares lessons from her storied career in high-performance sports, highlighting the importance of listening without ego, balancing rest and rigor, and fostering belief and relevance in young team members. The conversation delves into peer-to-peer mentoring, the power of optimism, and practical habits for leaders to build connection and resilience across generational lines. Packed with insightful stories and actionable takeaways for leaders in corporate and athletic settings alike, this episode is an inspiring guide to building bridges and enabling high performance in today's multi-generational workforce. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=g@w_libsyn_20 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_20
019: Coping and Hoping: Inside Generation Z's Approach to Work and Life
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore focus on the forces that have shaped Generation Z in the workplace. Together, they examine the democratization of the workforce, the shift from top-down management to giving younger employees a voice, and how instant access to information has influenced Gen Z's expectations and behaviors. Through compelling stories and practical insights, Dr. Elmore emphasizes the importance of empathy, relationship-building, and adapting leadership styles to bridge generational gaps. Listeners gain valuable strategies for understanding and leading Gen Z, along with resources for further learning and organizational development. If you're interested in fostering a more connected, future-ready team, this episode offers essential takeaways for leaders across all generations. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=g@w_yt_19 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_yt_19
018: Why Gen Z is Changing the Workplace and How Leaders Can Adapt
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore kick off a multi-part series exploring Tim's book, The Future Begins with Z. Together, they unpack the growing challenges and opportunities of leading Generation Z, the new majority. Dr. Elmore shares timely data about Gen Z's workplace struggles—from high turnover rates to the disconnect between classroom and workroom skills—and introduces practical, research-driven strategies for bridging generational divides. Drawing on relatable stories and real-world examples, the episode highlights the importance of mentoring, extending onboarding, giving effective feedback, and fostering a culture of engagement and empathy. Leaders seeking actionable ways to retain and develop young talent will find this episode especially insightful. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=g@w_libsyn_18 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_18
017: Gen Z and Beyond: Adapting HR and Corporate Culture
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by special guest Cami Mackey, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer at the Atlanta Hawks, to explore how organizations can bridge generational gaps in the workplace. Cami shares her HR journey and insights into managing multiple generations, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, communication, and personalized experiences for employee engagement. The conversation touches on how the Hawks adapt their hiring, marketing, and recognition strategies to reach younger generations, using data-driven approaches and innovative platforms. Packed with practical examples and leadership advice, the episode offers listeners actionable ways to foster collaboration across age groups and highlights the continuous learning mindset essential for today's dynamic workforce. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=g@w_libsyn_17 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_17
016: Cultivating a "Whatever It Takes" Team Culture Across Generations
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore explore how teams can cultivate a "whatever it takes" attitude across all generations in the workplace. Drawing on research, focus groups, and personal anecdotes, Dr. Elmore unpacks the roots of generational differences in work ethic, loyalty, and commitment—debunking common myths about Gen Z along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of moving beyond stereotypes, building trust, and fostering relationships centered on people rather than institutions. Amongst a shifting professional atmosphere, Dr. Elmore offers practical leadership strategies and memorable metaphors—such as the "second mile" and the story of the Waldorf Principle—to empower leaders and teams to bridge generational gaps and create cultures of commitment and accountability. Listeners walk away with actionable insights for motivating every generation to not just do their job, but to go above and beyond together. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z/?el=g@w_libsyn_16 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_16
015: Mastering Feedback: Insights for Leading Multigenerational Teams Effectively
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore share how to master feedback within multigenerational teams. Together, they unpack how feedback preferences differ from Boomers to Zoomers, highlighting the importance of empathy, tailored communication, and understanding generational traits. Dr. Elmore shares actionable insights and memorable metaphors—like treating feedback with the care of a surgeon rather than a vampire—to help leaders avoid common pitfalls and foster a culture of effective, consistent, and constructive feedback. The episode is filled with practical strategies for building trust, balancing individual needs, and turning feedback into a competitive advantage across all age groups. If you're leading a diverse team and want to elevate your feedback game, this conversation is full of valuable takeaways. Equip the next generation in the workplace with Dr. Tim Elmore's guide, The Future Begins With Z: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400256046/?el=g@w_libsyn_15 Master the art of giving feedback with Jeff Hancher's Firm Feedback in a Fragile World: https://store.maxwellleadership.com/products/jeff-hancher-firm-feedback-in-a-fragile-world-how-to-build-a-winning-culture-with-critical/?el=g@w_libsyn_15 Unleash the power of your story at A Book in a Weekend: https://www.abookinaweekend.com/?el=g@w_libsyn_15
014: Building Teamwork Across Ages: Stories from Chick fil-A's Multigenerational Staff
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis is joined by Dr. Tim Elmore and Chick-fil-A owner-operator Zach Thomas to explore the challenges and rewards of leading a multigenerational workforce in the quick service industry. Zach shares engaging stories from his restaurant, highlighting memorable moments of intergenerational teamwork and the importance of building relationships across age groups. The discussion dives into strategies for connecting with both seasoned employees and younger team members, emphasizing emotional intelligence, tailored leadership, and the balance between results and relationships. Listeners will gain valuable insights into fostering connection, encouraging collaboration, and creating a workplace culture where every generation can thrive—making this episode a practical resource for leaders navigating diverse teams. Click here to learn more about A Book in a Weekend!
013: Loyalty, Purpose, and Productivity: Generational Trends in the Workplace
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by Barna Research Institute's Matt Randerson to explore how shifting cultural trends and generational differences are reshaping the workplace. Drawing on Barna's latest research, the conversation uncovers the growing importance of belonging, relational connection, and purpose at work—particularly among Gen Z and millennials. The episode highlights surprising insights, such as younger generations' desire for workplace friendships and the disconnect between job satisfaction and employee loyalty. Packed with data-driven observations and practical advice for leaders of all generations, this episode offers valuable strategies for fostering engagement, retention, and organizational flourishing in today's evolving work environment. Click here to learn more about A Book in a Weekend! Click here to see more of the research referenced in this episode and connect with Barna!
012: Setting Clear Expectations to Unite Generations at Work
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis and generational expert Dr. Tim Elmore explore the crucial role of setting clear expectations to bridge gaps between different generations in the workplace. They discuss why generational differences lead to varied expectations, how unspoken assumptions can undermine team cohesion, and why ongoing, clear communication is essential for maintaining engagement and satisfaction. Drawing on real-life examples and practical analogies, Tim and Susan emphasize the importance of addressing expectations early and often to prevent conflict and disengagement. If you're looking for actionable insights on how leaders can unite multi-generational teams and foster a positive, productive culture, this episode is packed with strategies you can start using today.
011: Accountability in the Multi-Generational workplace
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore unpack the complexities of accountability in today's multi-generational workplace. Together, they explore how different generations—from Boomers to Gen Z—perceive and respond to accountability, and discuss the impact of management styles, trust, and organizational culture on team performance. Tim shares practical stories, including presidential case studies, to illustrate the power of authentic leadership and personal responsibility. The conversation dives deep into common clashes around micromanagement, feedback, and generational stereotypes, offering actionable strategies for leaders to foster empowerment and build authentic relationships across age groups. If you're working in or leading a diverse team and want tools to turn generational differences into a competitive advantage, this episode delivers insightful advice to help you build bridges and drive results. Click here to get your copy of Tim Elmore's A New Kind of Diversity!
010: Mental Health and the Generations You Work With
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis and generational expert Dr. Tim Elmore tackle the complex topic of mental health across multiple generations in the workplace. Together, they explore how perceptions of mental health have evolved—from the stigma and silence of older generations to the more open dialogue of Millennials and Gen Z. Dr. Elmore shares eye-opening statistics on the prevalence of mental health challenges among today's workforce and examines how factors like technology, work-life balance, and generational values shape mental health needs and expectations. With practical stories, generational insights, and actionable strategies, this episode underscores the importance of empathy and transparent leadership in fostering a healthy, high-performing, multi-generational team. If you want to better understand and bridge generational gaps around mental health at work, this is an essential listen. Click here to get your copy of Tim Elmore's A New Kind of Diversity!
009: Navigating Life's "Curves" with Dr. Arthur C. Brooks
In this episode of the Generations at Work podcast, Dr. Tim Elmore sits down with Dr. Arthur C. Brooks to explore how leaders can navigate the evolving stages of life and work with purpose and fulfillment. Drawing on the research of Raymond Cattell, Dr. Brooks breaks down the transition from fluid to crystallized intelligence, offering insights into how our strengths shift as we age and why embracing these changes leads to greater happiness. Through compelling examples—from Charles Darwin's struggle with decline to Johann Sebastian Bach's reinvention as a mentor—Brooks illustrates the power of repurposing one's career and influence. He also explores the challenges faced by different generations in today's workplaces, the impact of technology on relationships and meaning, and practical advice for leaders striving to foster connection, well-being, and genuine fulfillment across all ages. If you're interested in building bridges among generations and discovering how personal growth shapes professional leadership, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable takeaways.
008: Understanding the Emerging Generation (Part 2) with David Yeager
In this episode of Generations at Work, hosts Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore continue their discussion with author and psychological scientist Dr. David Yeager on effectively leading and motivating younger generations in the workplace. Dr. Yeager shares insights from his book 10 to 25 and introduces the mentor mindset—a balanced approach that combines high standards with high support. See the science behind growth versus fixed mindsets, the importance of transparency and asking questions, and practical strategies for fostering motivation and resilience in young team members. Packed with actionable guidance on building trust, delivering feedback, and bringing out the best in emerging talent, this episode is an essential listen for leaders looking to bridge generational gaps and inspire excellence.
007: Understanding the Emerging Generation (Part 1) with David Yeager
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis, generational expert Dr. Tim Elmore, and special guest Dr. David Yeager explore the unique motivations and needs of the emerging generation in the workplace. Drawing on insights from Dr. Yeager's book 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, they discuss the pitfalls of the "neurobiological incompetence model," which underestimates young people's capabilities, and instead highlight the importance of status, respect, and authentic relationships in motivating younger employees. Leaders will find practical advice for building trust, foster growth, and communicate effectively with Gen Z and young adults. If you're seeking actionable strategies to engage and empower the next generation at work, this episode delivers valuable research-backed tools and real-world examples.
006: Bridging the Generational Gap with Communication
In this conversation, Tim Elmore and Susan Davis explore the complexities of communication across different generations in the workplace. They discuss the varying communication styles, the widening generational gap, and the importance of establishing clear communication norms. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to understand preferences, expectations, and demands of team members to foster a collaborative environment. They also highlight the significance of engagement and traditions in bridging generational divides, ultimately advocating for intentional communication strategies to enhance workplace dynamics. In this conversation, Tim Elmore and Susan Davis explore the essential elements of effective leadership communication. They emphasize the importance of building trust through personal relationships, understanding the emotional dynamics of conversations, and adapting communication styles to navigate disruptions and conflicts. The discussion highlights practical strategies for leaders to connect with their teams on a personal level while maintaining a focus on collective goals. Elmore shares insights on the three types of conversations leaders should recognize: practical, social, and emotional, and how to approach each effectively. The conversation concludes with advice on balancing personal and collective leadership to foster a supportive and productive work environment. Click here to learn more about our corporate workshops.
005: Working with Gen X
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by guests Colin Sewell of the Sewell Family of Companies and Valorie Burton, bestselling author of Successful Women Think Differently. Together, they delve into the nuances of working with Generation X. The conversation explores the unique position of Gen X as a bridge between the old and new, blending traditional values with modern perspectives. Valorie and Colin share personal insights on how their experiences as "latchkey kids" and lifelong learners have shaped their leadership styles and adaptability in today's evolving work environment. With a focus on respect, connection, and understanding across generational lines, the episode offers valuable lessons on fostering collaboration and developing resilient, purpose-driven teams. For anyone interested in improving generational leadership and work dynamics, this episode is an insightful listen.
004: Working with Millenials
In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by Millennial guests Mission Mobile Medical president & CFO Amanda LeFever and bestselling leadership author Ryan Jenkins. In this episode, our hosts and guests delve into the intricacies of working with the Millennial generation, emphasizing the importance of bridging generational gaps in the workplace. They explore the common misconceptions about Millennials, such as their perceived entitlement, and highlight the values they bring, including efficiency, collaboration, and a desire for feedback. Discover how Gen Y balances traditional workplace values and the evolving expectations of a modern workforce. By focusing on genuine interest, clear direction, and a blend of high-tech and high-touch approaches, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering connection across multiple generations. If you're interested in enhancing generational collaboration and leadership, you'll find practical advice for building more inclusive and productive work environments. References: Learn more about Ryan Jenkins Learn more about Rivet Learn more about Mission Mobile Medical
003: Working with Generation Z
In this episode of Generations at Work, host Susan Davis and guest Dr. Tim Elmore sit down with Generation Z members Natalie Letchworth and Christian Jones to delve into the dynamics of working and connecting across generations. Dr. Elmore paints a portrait of Gen Z, highlighting their memories shaped solely by the 21st century. Natalie and Christian share their experiences and perspectives on bridging generational gaps, emphasizing Gen Z's adaptability, entrepreneurial spirit, and demand for transparency and trust in the workplace. The conversation touches on the significance of building genuine relationships, moving away from traditional workplace hierarchies, and leveraging the unique contributions of all generations. Packed with insights on the future of work and leadership, this episode is a valuable listen for anyone looking to improve multi-generational collaboration.
002: Expectations and Preferences of Different Generations
In this episode of the Generations at Work podcast, Susan Davis is joined by generational expert Dr. Tim Elmore to explore the complexities of generational dynamics within the workplace. Together, they delve into defining a generation, understanding the varying expectations, demands, and preferences of different age groups, and how these differences influence perceptions of jobs and careers. Dr. Elmore provides insights into "tweeners," those caught between generational cohorts, and how they can exhibit traits from both sides. The episode also discusses the democratization of the workforce and the necessity for modern leaders to adapt their styles to connect effectively with Gen Z and other emerging professionals. Packed with anecdotes and practical advice, the conversation bridges the generational gap and emphasizes the importance of flexibility and empathy in leadership, making it a valuable listen for anyone navigating diverse age groups in their professional environment. References: Access the FREE Generations at Work Playbook at MaxwellLeadership.com/GenerationsAtWork!
001: Welcome to Generations at Work
In this inaugural episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore embark on a comprehensive exploration of the diverse generations present in today's workforce and strategies to bridge generational gaps for enhanced productivity. Dr. Elmore traces his journey studying generational diversity starting from the 1980s, introducing terms like "Baby Buster" and "Generation X." Together, Susan and Tim discuss how historical contexts and technological advancements have widened generational gaps, especially as screens have become private rather than public. They underscore the importance of empathy and understanding, using examples like reverse mentoring and the innovative leadership approach of Angela Arentz at Burberry. The episode is rich with insights on collaborative leadership, the need to adapt to different generational perspectives, and concrete advice for leaders striving to foster inclusive and dynamic workplaces across generations. References: Access the FREE Generations at Work Playbook at MaxwellLeadership.com/GenerationsAtWork!

Introducing School on a Mission Podcast. Premiering August 15th!
Audio Correction: First Episode will drop on August 15th, 2024! Welcome to "School on a Mission," a new podcast co-hosted by Andrew McPeak and Gina Watts, dedicated to exploring the transformative potential of education beyond just grades and GPAs. This podcast is designed for educational leaders who view their schools as opportunities to impact the lives of everyone in the […]

Becoming a Servant Leader with Christa Campbell
Christa Campbell is a Trustee Scholar and honors student at Boston University studying business strategy and innovation. Although she now lives far from home, Christa grew up in Gwinnett County in Georgia and always loves coming back and serving the community that gave so much to her. She has been passionate about service since she was young and has been […]

Exciting Updates about the Future of our Podcast!
In this episode, Andrew and Tim announce exciting changes for the podcast, revealing that it will split into two new shows: "School on a Mission" and "Leading the Next Generation with Tim Elmore." "School on a Mission," launching on August 14th, 2024, will be hosted by Andrew and Gina Watts, focusing on the challenges and innovations in educational leadership for […]

Three Skills Students Need to Become Digital Citizens
Digital citizenship is about what constitutes healthy behavior when engaging with others online. If you are a member of Generation X or Baby Boomers and grew up in the United States, you likely received training in civics and etiquette to become a good citizen. Digital citizenship is ultimately an attempt to update these topics for the digital age. Just like […]

You Have Three Options When You Face a Loss
Sometimes, when we face hard times or lose something important, we might feel like it defines or limits us. But most people don't know that there are three ways to respond to these challenges. First, we can let them define us, making us sad or lose our motivation. Second, we can let them confine us, where we feel stuck and […]

We Don't Actually Want Our Kids to Be Happy
Are we, as adults, overly fixated on our children's happiness and success? Research suggests that our obsession with these goals might be leading to unintended consequences. We need to reconsider our parenting or leadership priorities and strive to create environments that nurture not only achievement but also empathy, connection, and fulfillment. In this episode, Tim and Andrew explore the findings […]

Four Data Points that Should Inform Your Decisions This School Year
We live in a world that has constant concerns about artificial intelligence, gun violence's impact on mental health, and gender disparities in schools. By understanding these issues and taking action, we can create better learning environments for students. We have curated recent findings from the Pew Research Center, Gallup, the CDC, and other sources to give our listeners a big-picture […]

Strategies Schools Are Using to Curb Social Media Abuse
These days, we are reading about school decisions regarding smartphone use, ranging from banning portable devices to displaying laissez-faire attitudes regarding phones. Many educators and support staff feel that students' constant access to social media on their smartphones harms their mental well-being and hinders their ability to learn. Some educators go so far as to say that students are addicted […]

Leading Kids: Is Empathy or Compassion Better?
When empathy grows into compassion, it becomes more helpful for both you and the person for whom you demonstrate it. Empathy feels good to give, but you may feel someone's pain so deeply that you're not even able to act. Compassion allows you to practice metacognition and rise above the pain so you can treat the need. In this episode, […]

What the Amish Can Teach Us About Getting Kids Ready for Life
Every teacher, school administrator, coach, youth leader, and parent we know wants to help their kids prepare for the life that awaits them as adults. We want them to be ready to embark on a career after graduation with a sense of self-assured confidence, to see the big picture, and to bet on themselves as they enter job interviews. Believe […]

5 Key Insights Shaping Tomorrow's Leaders with Cam Turner
Leadership across generations is hard, but we believe success in cross-generational leadership begins with listening and empathy. That's what we want to do in our everyday lives. Today, we have a very special episode for our listeners. Joining Tim and Andrew is Growing Leaders' Research Coordinator Cam Turner! Cam is a brilliant leader, and he is also a member of […]

How to Stop Faking Courage and Actually Practice It
Today, as we all know, it's easy to hide behind a screen and post something that seems courageous, but leaders realize we can and must do better. **I now believe you can't be a good leader without courage**. Peter Drucker once said, "When you see a successful organization, you know that someone at some time made a courageous decision." Our […]

What Students Say Will Motivate Them Most
Many educators and youth leaders struggle to motivate kids or to keep them engaged for any period of time. It's worth periodically reminding yourself: that students, particularly those who may misbehave often, face struggles when they're not in the classroom. Because of that, students should always be given a second chance to get their behavior in check. When we don't […]

Build the Year You Want
Most people view happiness as a positive emotion. Without thinking, we may say, "I wish I were happy all the time!" However negative emotions play a useful role in our lives. Happiness is not the goal and unhappiness is not the enemy. In this episode, Tim and Andrew discuss their top books of 2023 and stop to highlight the insightful […]