In this special guest episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we’re joined by Steve Davis, co-founder of My Next Stage, a platform built to help experienced professionals thrive in a changing workforce.

Together, we unpack a critical and under-discussed issue: ageism in the workplace - its often unintentional nature, how it's built into systems, and what we can all do about it.

Steve shares wisdom from his career in recruiting and talent strategy at major firms, including Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg, and Broadridge, and reflects on the persistent misconceptions around older workers’ adaptability, cost, and leadership potential.

▶️ Ageism in Hiring & the Future of Experienced Workers:

• [03:26] Meet strategic talent acquisition leader Steve Davis
• [06:16] The systemic challenges experienced professionals face
• [09:31] Contributing factors to unintentional age bias
• [13:58] Resume tactics and interview pitfalls for older job seekers
• [17:11] The workforce is aging fast – what the numbers tell us
• [20:51] Tactics older professionals can use to stay competitive
• [25:11] Rethinking employment models
• [29:39] How assumptions about runway and retirement limit hiring
• [33:18] Lightning Round: Favorite leader, biggest mistake, top achievement
• [40:39] Takeaways for both job seekers and business leaders

Resources:

E26: Career Ladder vs. Career Lattice: The Value of Experiential Learning

Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.

Notable Quotes from Ageism in Hiring & the Future of Experienced Workers with Steve Davis:

“ A lot of people are asking the same question: how do I make my experience matter in a world that seems to value youth and learning agility?” - Steve Davis

“ Ageism is everywhere. Around 90% of workers over 40 say that they've experienced ageism in the workplace.” - Steve Davis

Connect with Steve Davis:

📱 Follow Steve Davis on LinkedIn.

💻 Check out Steve Davis’s website.

Connect with Your Hosts:

📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.

📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.

🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube.

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