Old School Meets New School: Leading Across Generations: In this episode of the Never in Reverse podcast, we explore what it truly takes to lead a multigenerational workforce in today’s manufacturing world. Jeremy Axel and Douglas Cox break down the challenges of uniting boomers, millennials, and Gen Z on the same team, while clearing up the stereotypes that often hold leaders back.

Discover why transparent communication, strong mentorship, and consistent knowledge sharing are essential for modern manufacturing leadership. You’ll also learn how documenting tribal knowledge, adapting leadership styles, and building real collaboration across generations can elevate productivity, retention, and team culture.

If you’re passionate about leadership, workforce development, or creating a workplace where every generation can thrive, this episode is for you.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Challenging Generational Stereotypes 
Debunking myths about boomers, millennials, and Gen Z; the real issue is leadership communication across generations

(00:00:32) Podcast Introduction & Episode Theme 
Hosts introduce themselves, the podcast, and the focus on leading multiple generations in manufacturing.

(00:01:20) Gen Z Engagement & Learning Styles 
Discussing Gen Z's reputation for disengagement, their tech-driven learning, and differences from older generations.

(00:02:03) Communication, Vision, and Transparency 
Importance of clear communication, transparency, and casting a vision that Gen Z can engage with.

(00:04:42) Challenges in Information Sharing 
Difficulties in providing transparency and clear job responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

(00:05:41) Cross-Departmental Alignment 
Need for roadmaps and better alignment between teams to ensure everyone is informed and connected.

(00:06:20) Empowering Gen Z in Manufacturing 
Integrating Gen Z into a traditional industry, leveraging their skills, and encouraging open communication.

(00:08:18) Balancing Vision and Listening 
Leaders must balance big-picture vision with listening and adapting to team input.

(00:08:37) Transparency and Buy-In Across Generations 
Sharing transformation and vision to avoid resistance and foster unity among age groups.

(00:10:06) Flexibility vs. Execution 
Exploring generational expectations for flexibility, autonomy, and the importance of delivering results.

 (00:11:24) Trust, Accountability, and Knowledge Transfer
Building trust, ensuring accountability, and the critical need for knowledge transfer in manufacturing.

(00:12:56) Mentorship and Self-Directed Learning 
Role of mentorship, self-learning, and the balance between guidance and independence.

(00:14:25) Documenting Tribal Knowledge 
Importance of documenting processes and knowledge to ensure continuity and clarity.

(00:15:12) Choosing the Right Mentors 
Selecting mentors who enjoy teaching and can effectively transfer skills and knowledge.

(00:16:07) Building a Transparent, Data-Driven Culture 
Creating a culture where information is accessible, organized, and not dependent on individuals.

(00:17:06) Consequences of Poor Knowledge Transfer 
Risks of losing undocumented expertise as older workers retire, and the need for structured mentorship.

(00:19:19) Overcoming Resistance to Sharing Knowledge 
Addressing reluctance among experienced workers to mentor newcomers and fostering teamwork.

(00:21:03) Bridging the Generational Gap with Structure 
Implementing documentation and mentorship to ensure smooth generational transitions.

(00:22:10) The Basics and the Need for Clear Documentation 
Highlighting gaps in basic skills and stressing the need for clear, replicable documentation.

(00:23:35) Leadership, Mentorship, and the Right Personality 
The importance of having leaders and mentors with the right skills and attitudes to bridge generational divides.

(00:24:29) Hybrid Procedures and Adapting to Change 
Developing procedures that work for all generations and preparing for inevitable workforce transitions.

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