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Gen Z isn’t the problem—it’s the way we manage them.
We’ve heard it all: Gen Z is lazy, entitled, and lacks work ethic. But are they really the issue, or have we just not figured out how to lead them effectively?
This week, I’m excited to welcome back Heather Elkington—leadership coach, TEDx speaker, and social media powerhouse—who is reshaping the way we manage the next generation of talent.
After our first conversation, Heather and I knew we had only scratched the surface. In this episode, we dive into:
1. Why the term “manager” needs a rebrand (and how to lead without the “Karen” vibe)
2. The 5-step framework for emotional intelligence in leadership
3. How to handle tough conversations that spark real growth
4. Why Gen Z can spot inauthentic leadership from a mile away
If you’re a leader struggling to connect with your team, an ambitious manager ready to level up, or a Gen Z professional seeking leadership that truly gets it, this conversation is for you.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
05:28 - You’re Already a Leader
08:59 - Gender Disparity in the Workplace
20:51 - Gen Z and the Future of Work
27:09 - What Will Get Your Team Engaged Again?
31:58 - Managing Employees’ Expectations
35:34 - Helping Your Employee Grow
44:44 - Giving Your Team Independence
52:59 - Tips for Having Difficult Conversations
01:02:25 - Gossip and Emotional Intelligence
01:08:16 - Aligning Your Team with Core Values
Heather is the founder of Fresh Leadership World, a company which educates managers on creating empowered, high-performing teams where every individual feels valued and capable.
She’s spent the last 10 years leading fast-growing and effective SaaS companies like GoProposal and Sage, where she was Director of Operations.
Heather Elkington:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/heather-elkington
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershipheather/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leadershipheather
Website: https://www.freshleadershipworld.com/
Maria Hvorostovsky:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariahvo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariahvo/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maria_hvo
X: https://twitter.com/mhvorostovsky
Podcast filmed, edited and produced by:
https://www.londonbeautyphotographer.com
Need help HIRING – http://www.hirewithmaria.com
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