Leading today means understanding the motivations of a diverse, multigenerational workforce. In this episode of the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast, Rob Shields and David Spickard explore how leaders can inspire purpose, engagement, and growth among employees from every generation.

Drawing on Gallup and Deloitte research, we discuss why younger employees prioritize purpose, why only a small percentage aspire to traditional leadership roles, and how leaders can adapt to meet these changing expectations. Rob and David offer practical strategies for cultivating engagement, aligning individual purpose with organizational goals, and creating a leadership culture that nurtures growth, trust, and fulfillment.

If you lead a team of any size, this episode will equip you with actionable tools to inspire your workforce, improve retention, and unlock potential across generations. Discover how purpose-driven leadership isn’t just motivational—it’s a competitive advantage for your organization.

00:00 Introduction to the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast

01:34 Today's Topic: Purpose at Work

02:56 Gallup and Deloitte Studies on Purpose

07:28 Generational Differences in Seeking Purpose

09:38 Leadership Challenges and Opportunities

14:16 The Importance of Humility in Leadership

23:33 Conclusion and Resources

Resources

1. 11 Ten Leadership
2. Gallup - Purposeful Work Boosts Engagement, But Few Experience It
3. Deloitte - 2025 Gen Z & Millennial Survey