In this insightful episode of High Octane Leadership, I sit down with recent UNC-Charlotte graduate and rising professional Diana Garland to unpack the realities of Gen Z in the workplace. With candor, insight, and a touch of humor, Diana challenges stereotypes and offers a fresh perspective on what Gen Z truly values: purpose, mentorship, psychological safety, and meaningful work. This episode offers a two-way masterclass in leadership across generations. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this conversation bridges the generational divide with empathy, truth, and actionable takeaways.

We talk about what Gen Z actually wants from work, redefining hustle and rejecting quiet quitting, how to deliver (and receive) tough feedback, the power of mentorship and mutual respect and why leadership is always about relationships.

High Octane Leadership is hosted by The Diversity Movement CEO and executive coach Donald Thompson and is a production of Earfluence.

Order UNDERESTIMATED: A CEO’S UNLIKELY PATH TO SUCCESS, by Donald Thompson.