Why Gen Z Thinks Your Feedback Sucks (and Boomers Are Still Confused)

Think Gen Z is lazy? Boomers are outdated? Millennials are just avocado toast addicts? Megan Grace joins the mic to demolish generational clichés and decode what actually matters in workplace culture. We dive into the mindset gaps that spark friction, miscommunication, and eye-rolls across generations—and how leaders can stop biffing the feedback game. In this episode we unpack Megan’s new book, “Generations in the World of Work,” with no-fluff takes on work-life balance, retirement myths, and why the 19-year-old brain is your HR wild card. If your idea of communication is still email only… buckle up. Key Takeaways: ➡ Megan Grace’s book was a year-and-a-half-long deep dive into workplace generations ➡ Gen Z wants flexibility, not just foosball tables and slogans ➡ Feedback needs a remix—tailor it or tank morale ➡ The 19-year-old brain is still baking—context matters ➡ Retirement is already on Gen Z’s radar (wild, right?) ➡ Boomers and Gen Z view work-life balance like two different planets ➡ Email ≠ communication—set expectations or brace for chaos ➡ Collaboration across generations = workplace gold ➡ Identity formation in young professionals is key to better management ➡ “It’s a sandbox”—test, play, iterate—don’t assume one-size-fits-all culture ➡ Workplace culture shifts fast—your old playbook is outdated Timestamps: 00:00 – Who is Meghan Grace? 01:16 – The Journey of Writing a Book 04:06 – Generational Dynamics in the Workplace 07:19 – Understanding Generational Mindsets 10:11 – The 19-Year-Old Brain and Identity Development 13:22 – Inter-Generational Relationships and Motivations 16:12 – Work-Life Balance Across Generations 16:48 – Generational Perspectives on Work Culture 18:53 – Understanding Workplace Dynamics Across Generations 20:18 – Bridging Communication Gaps Between Generations 23:33 – The Importance of Empathy in Workplace Relationships 26:54 – Navigating Job Expectations and Generational Differences 28:01 – Feedback: A Generational Divide 37:37 – Retirement Perspectives Across Generations Connect with Meghan Grace: Website: https://www.meghanmgrace.com/ #GenZ Podcast: https://www.meghanmgrace.com/podcast Connect with Us: William Tincup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tincup/ Ryan Leary LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleary/ Connect with us on social: Site: http://www.wrkdefined.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wrkdefined LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wrkdefined Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WRKdefined/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/WRKdefined Substack: https://wrkdefined.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices