You’ve probably heard the stereotypes of different generations in the workplace, including millennials just wanting trophies and more seasoned workers being averse to technology. These are the signs of some of the generational friction that exists in (and out) of the workplace. These challenges can be mitigated through a better understanding of the narrative identity each generation has of work (and the world) and why these narratives exist.

My guest Chris De Santis is a speaker, podcaster, and consultant with over 38 years of experience in training and development. He’s also an expert in generational differences in the workplace. And he joined me to discuss the impact of generational theory on his work, which he wrote about in his humorously titled book, Why I Find You Irritating: Navigating Generational Friction at Work.

In this episode of the Branding Room Only podcast, you’ll learn about how the upbringing of each generation, and the traits they take on as a result, affect workplace dynamics. We’ll dig into the importance of understanding and adapting communication styles across different age groups, the shift towards a new career progression model, the role of technology in the workplace, and so much more!

1:03 - Personal branding versus reputation and how you are the actor, agent, and author of your life

4:43 - The ability to authentically align with certain characteristic traits for a short while and a fair point about authenticity

8:00 - Chris’ upbringing, career trajectory, and the benefits he sees in having a background in improv

18:15 - One differentiating factor influencing the four current generations in the workplace and perceptual differences that cause friction between them

26:58 - The mistake being made in the workplace with millennials (and Gen Z) and what the emerging adult is looking for in their career

36:47 - How generations tend to be talked about differently when it comes to technology and the evolving workplace (and its dynamics)

48:37 - The one thing Chris will never do to hurt his brand and the Branding Room Only attribute that makes him unique

Mentioned In How to Navigate Generational Friction In the Workplace with Chris De Santis

Chris De Santis | LinkedIn

Cubicle Confidential

Why I Find You Irritating by Chris De Santis

2024 Intention and Goal Setting Webinar

Sponsor for this episode

This episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.

PGE Consulting Group LLC is dedicated to providing a practical hybrid of professional development training and diversity solutions. From speaking to consulting to programming and more, all services and resources are carefully tailored for each partner. Paula Edgar’s distinct expertise helps engage attendees and create lasting change for her clients.

To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at

We're starting off 2026 with a bang with my New Year's Intention and Goal Setting session on January 3rd, and then my new three-part series, LinkedIn Strategy for Lawyers: Build a Brand that Works for You, running January through March. 

Reserve your seat at paulaedgar.com/events.