What if your career achievements are actually the least memorable thing about you at work?

In this captivating episode of "Gen Mess with Tess," host Tess Brigham sits down with John Garrett, a former Big Four CPA turned stand-up comedian and award-winning keynote speaker, to dig deep into the messy world of generational workplace dynamics—and why bringing your whole self to work is your biggest asset.

Episode Highlights:

• The Surprising Power of Your “And”: John reveals how your outside interests—not just your job title—define who you are at work and are what people actually remember years later.
• From CPA to Comedian: Hear how John’s journey from cubicles to comedy clubs (and back again as a corporate culture guru) taught him lessons every leader should know about authenticity, connection, and communication.
• Authenticity vs. Professionalism: Why embracing your passions and quirks doesn’t mean sacrificing professionalism—and how leaders can balance both for a thriving workplace.
• Generational Differences, Demystified: Tess and John dive into whether Gen Z, Millennials, and Boomers really want such different things—or if we’re all just seeking belonging in our own way.
• Actionable Connection: The show unpacks research, real stories, and simple strategies to build rapport across generational divides and foster a workplace where people want to stick around.
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Continue the Conversation: Want practical tools, leadership trainings, or just a dose of fun inspiration? Check out John Garrett’s book and resources at whatsyourand.com and tune in for more real-talk every week here on "Gen Mess with Tess."

Remember: The Gen Mess gets cleaned up one authentic conversation at a time. So what’s your “And”—and how will you share it this week?

00:00 First Comedy Paycheck Surprise

04:46 Midwest Comedy Opportunities

07:26 "Comedy and Identity Merge"

10:07 Technical Skills Aren't Enough Anymore

16:10 "The Power of Speaking Out Loud"

17:29 Conversational Language and Comedy Confidence

21:28 Ego and Miscommunication Issues

23:40 Reevaluating Work-Life Balance

27:48 Redefining Success Across Generations

30:09 "Balancing Work and Personal Identity"

32:55 COVID's Impact on Mutual Understanding

38:39 "Workplace that Values Whole Self"

41:19 "Embracing Imperfection in the Workplace"

44:17 Intentional Time Between Work Hours

48:26 Vetting by Conversation

49:25 "Pug Passionate Conversations Thrive"

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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What if the real reason your team is struggling isn’t just about generational clashes—but about whether your employees feel seen, heard, and valued at work?

On this eye-opening episode of Gen Mess with Tess, host Tess Brigham sits down with Dr. Ryan Warner, award-winning consulting psychologist, military leader, and Fortune 500 organizational strategist. Together, they dig beneath the surface of generational dynamics to reveal the hidden causes of workplace stress and conflict—and show you what truly builds inclusive, high-performing teams.

Key Highlights:

• Dr. Warner’s riveting journey from college athlete to military psychologist, and how his passion for health and wellness led to a global consulting career.
• Behind-the-scenes in the military: the surprising generational dynamics and why communication, not just hierarchy, drives team success.
• The truth about DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) in 2024: Why performative checkbox initiatives fail and how truly embedding inclusion into daily practice can transform organizations—regardless of what the headlines say.
• How real inclusion boosts productivity, mental well-being, and innovation—plus why addressing bias and building psychological safety are essential.
• Actionable advice for leaders who feel overwhelmed: Where to start, how to create more inclusive systems without piling on more work, and why even small changes (like feedback loops and cross-generational mentoring) can make a massive impact.

Connect with the Show: Visit TessBrigham.com or find Dr. Ryan Warner at rcwarnerconsulting.com to learn more about their work and upcoming opportunities.

Don’t let generational misunderstanding or outdated workplace practices hold your team back. Dive into this episode for real strategies—and start cleaning up your “gen mess” today!

00:00 Passion for Health and Education

05:06 Military Leadership and Entrepreneurial Journey

07:56 "Internship Insights and Career Paths"

10:35 "DEI Changes Spark Reflection"

14:24 "Addressing Workplace Generational Challenges"

19:13 Generational Bias in Organizations

23:26 Inclusion's Impact on Workplace Productivity

25:35 Balancing Work Culture and Leadership

27:50 "Mindful Leadership & Inclusion"

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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What if everything you think you know about addiction and recovery is wrong? In this eye-opening episode of Gen Mess with Tess, host Tess Brigham sits down with Shirley Wantland, cofounder and principal of Recovery Consultants LLC, to dismantle the conventional wisdom around substance abuse, mental health, and healing. Shirley argues that no one is born an addict—and that true recovery comes from healing the inside, not just modifying behaviors on the outside.

Key Highlights:

• Inside-Out Healing: Shirley reveals why the traditional "outside-in" approach to recovery often fails—and how focusing on internal healing leads to lasting change.
• Generational Shifts: Delve into how Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z view substance use, achievement, and even parenting differently. Shirley exposes the intense pressures younger generations face and how this is reshaping addiction trends.
• Social Media & Isolation: Discover the surprising role social media plays in driving both addiction and disconnection among young people, and the social skills crisis it’s fueling.
• Cannabis Culture Unpacked: Hear why today's parents need to be extra vigilant about cannabis use—even if their kids “seem fine”—and the long-term consequences of chronic use.
• Generational Challenges at Work: Shirley shares personal insights on managing multi-generational teams—why simple things like phone vs. text can be a minefield, and how leaders can foster inclusive, resilient workplaces.
• Radical Compassion: Why seeing the pain behind anger—and focusing on understanding, not just fixing—can transform how we support loved ones struggling with addiction.

Follow-Up with Shirley Wantland: Ready to dive deeper or need support? Visit recovery-consultants.com to book a free consultation, or connect on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more insights.

Don’t let the ‘gen mess’ mess with you—listen, reflect, and join us as we turn understanding into action, one conversation at a time.

00:00 "Exploring Generational Dynamics and Recovery"

05:32 Holistic Addiction Recovery Approaches

08:32 Generational Parenting Shifts

11:05 Social Media's Impact on Self-Image

14:47 In-Person Mentorship Benefits

17:49 Overprotective Parenting and Weed Concerns

22:06 Cannabis-Induced Psychosis Concerns

23:47 "Embrace Risk in Love and Life"

29:29 Evolving Language and Inclusivity

33:04 "Employee Needs Beyond Money"

34:42 "Value Beyond Money"

38:41 "Understanding Addiction Beyond Disease"

41:12 "Understanding Anger's True Source"

43:48 "Generational Identity Revelations"

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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Is Empathy the Missing Link in Bridging Generational Divides?

In this captivating episode of "The Gen Mess with Tess," we dive deep into the world of generational dynamics with Katherine Manning, an authority on leading with empathy when it matters the most. Ever wondered how understanding and transparency can shift the way generations interact in both personal and professional spheres?

Prepare to be enlightened as Tess and Katherine explore the crucial role of empathy in tackling generational challenges.

We’ll walk you through Katherine's inspiring journey from a hotline counselor at a domestic violence clinic to a pivotal advisor on high-profile cases like the Madoff scandal and the Boston Marathon bombing. Discover the universal truths she uncovered about our shared needs during times of trauma, and learn how these apply to everyday workplace struggles.

Key Highlights:

• Katherine shares her insights on the vital need for information and consistency during periods of upheaval, emphasizing the importance of communication in the workplace.
• The discussion delves into the generational perception gap on transparency, with Tess uncovering the reasons why Gen Z craves it more than ever.
• Real-life stories and anecdotes illustrate the power of curiosity as a gateway to empathy, offering practical approaches to fostering a culture where empathy thrives across all generations.

Join us as we clean up the Gen Mess, one conversation at a time. Stay curious, and let's transform the way generations connect and thrive together. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on building an empathetic workplace!

00:00 Legal Career Highlights and Insights

03:56 Craving Information During Turmoil

07:55 Transparency and Accountability Issues

12:50 "Trust Building in Firehouse"

13:50 Band Stage Requirements as Safety Checks

17:09 Evolving Work-Life Balance Perspectives

23:09 "Tackling Workplace Generation Gaps"

24:54 Empathy Hindered by Survival Instincts

28:47 Trauma as a Catalyst for Growth

30:27 "Empathy's Ripple in Workplace Culture"

36:01 Clarity and Consistency in Communication

37:51 "Effective Support Communication Strategies"

40:01 Empathy in Multigenerational Workforce

44:15 "Leadership Tips via Text"

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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Have you ever considered that the real communication problem might not lie with the younger generation, but with us—the ones who should know better?

In this eye-opening episode of "Gen Mess with Tess," host Tess Brigham dives into a thought-provoking conversation with Jeffrey Klubeck, a master of motivation and communication. Together, they challenge conventional wisdom about generational communication struggles and offer new perspectives on understanding Gen Z.

Jeffrey Klubeck, founder of Get a Clue Inc and a seasoned professor, sheds light on the true dynamics at play in today's world, where technology and communication intersect more than ever. You'll discover surprising insights into how both young and older generations contribute to communication gaps, and why it's crucial to reassess where we place the blame.

Key Highlights:

• Insights into how older generations might need to reconsider their own role in the digital communication landscape.
• The power of curiosity, empathy, and vulnerability in bridging generational gaps.
• A fresh perspective on authority and leadership in both parenting and management.
• Ideas on fostering collaboration and understanding between generations in the workplace.
• Klubeck's personal journey and strategies to improve communication through his books, including "Get a Clue in 52" and "Kluebie Snacks."

Tune into this captivating episode for a fresh take on generational dynamics and start transforming the "Gen Mess" into a synergistic dialogue that benefits everyone.

00:00 "Jovial Approach to Public Speaking"

06:22 "Beyond Coaching: Expanding Your Identity"

08:55 "Embracing Disruption and Innovation"

13:08 Bridging Generational Understanding & Empathy

16:02 Effective Parenting: Curiosity and Empathy

16:54 Rethinking Leadership and Authority

23:52 "Campus Life Overrun by Phones"

26:54 Youth to Aging: Anxiety Shift

30:43 "Misunderstanding Online Success"

31:14 Generational Entitlement Perspectives

36:46 Parenting Insights: Discipline and Vulnerability

37:46 "Managing Digital Distractions and Focus"

41:03 "The Integrity Game Offers Free Resources"

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you could learn the secrets of reputation management from a Navy officer turned PR expert with nearly three decades of experience?

In this episode of "Gen Mess with Tess," host Tess Brigham welcomes Dave Oates, a marketing and PR aficionado, to explore the intricacies of crisis communications and the ever-evolving world of public relations.

Join Tess and Dave as they uncover Dave's unique journey from naval officer to being a sought-after crisis communications consultant. Hear firsthand accounts of navigating crises—from military operations to tech startups—and learn how authentic storytelling can shape an organization's narrative in today's digital age. Dave provides invaluable insights into generational differences in communication styles and the importance of being "confidently vulnerable" in both personal and professional settings.

Key Highlights:

• Explore Dave's robust career and lessons learned in crisis management.
• Discover how PR has transformed with the rise of social media and the digital landscape, blurring the lines between traditional marketing, PR, and social media strategies.
• Understand generational nuances and how they affect communication within teams and organizations.
• Gain insights into the crucial importance of mental wellness, mindfulness, and setting personal parameters in high-stress environments.

Follow-up Actions for Listeners:

• Reflect on your current communication strategies. Are you engaging authentically with your audience or workforce?
• Consider practicing daily mindfulness or mental health check-ins to enhance personal and professional resilience.
• Embrace the concept of being "confidently vulnerable" in your interactions. Start by acknowledging mistakes and embracing opportunities for growth.
• Explore opportunities for storytelling within your organization, focusing on empathy and authenticity.

Listen to the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate today’s complex communication landscape and to harness these lessons in your everyday professional interactions. And as always, stay curious and don’t let the Gen Mess mess with you!

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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Could the key to revolutionizing workplace culture lie in unlocking personal biases and silencing the noise in our minds?

In this eye-opening episode of "The Gen Mess with Tess," Tess Brigham invites bias mitigation expert Matthew Cahill from The Percipio Company to unravel the intricacies of generational dynamics and biases at work.

Matthew reveals actionable insights into how biases like "like me," egocentric, and proximity bias shape organizational culture and individual interactions. Dive into the profound discussion on how the environment you grew up in can heavily influence your workplace behavior, and learn how dismantling age-old stereotypes can lead to a more inclusive and productive workforce.

Highlights of the episode include Matthew’s origin story of founding The Percipio Company with LinkedIn as his first client, and the discussion around the unique challenges various generations face in today's rapidly changing work environment. Matthew also offers valuable tips for creating space in your daily routine to combat the overwhelming pace of modern work life.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to bridge generational gaps and drive meaningful change within their organizations. Don't miss out on practical approaches to clean up the "Gen Mess" and foster a truly inclusive work culture.

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered how your relationships, both personal and professional, shape your happiness and success?

In this episode of Gen Mess with Tess, Dr. Abby Medcalf joins host Tess Brigham to unpack generational dynamics and their impact on relationships. With over 35 years of experience in both business and counseling, Dr. Medcalf offers a unique blend of insights that span relational connections across different generations.

Key highlights include her journey from a recovering heroin addict to a successful psychologist and author, the pursuit of world peace through fostering better relationships, and the chronic issue of conflict avoidance in modern generations. Tess and Dr. Medcalf dive into the importance of genuine connection, the societal shifts influenced by technology, and how generational differences impact our interactions and happiness.

Dr. Abby Medcalf’s wealth of knowledge provides actionable insights for all generations striving for richer, more fulfilling connections. Tune in to learn how you can start bridging the generational gap in your own life.

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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Ever wondered if remote work can truly hinder productivity, or if it's simply an evolving work culture challenging traditional norms?

In this insightful solo episode of "The Gen Mess with Tess," host Tess Brigham unpacks the controversy surrounding Jamie Dimon's leaked comments on JPMorgan's return-to-office mandate. Tess delves into the debate ignited by his blunt criticisms of remote work, particularly its impact on productivity, accountability, and Gen Z employees.

Key highlights of the episode include:

• The examination of Jamie Dimon's rationale for a mandatory five-day in-office workweek and the backlash it has spurred amongst JPMorgan employees.
• Discussion of research findings on productivity, highlighting studies that suggest remote work can boost efficiency contrary to the traditional in-office approach.
• Analysis of technology’s double-edged influence on productivity, from facilitating remote work to causing digital overload and 'techno stress.'
• A critical look at the need for evolving management practices to accommodate a hybrid workforce and support diverse work styles effectively.
• Exploration of Gen Z's unique perspectives in the workplace and how leadership can harness their potential rather than generalize them within negative stereotypes.

Join us in future conversations where we continue to dissect generational dynamics and strive toward a more balanced, productive, and flexible work culture.

Stay curious, and remember—don't let the Gen Mess mess with you!

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

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Are you curious about how emotional intelligence (EQ) can transform your workplace relationships and leadership style?

Tess Brigham welcomes expert Susan Schwartz, who dives deep into the world of emotional intelligence and its profound impact on leadership, teamwork, and generational dynamics in the workplace.

Discover Susan’s journey from a technically-focused professional to a leader who champions the power of emotional intelligence. Learn about the essential role of EQ in navigating workplace challenges and creating collaborative environments. Susan shares her insights on how recognizing and balancing emotional intelligence traits can lead to successful leadership and improved team dynamics.

Key highlights from this episode include:

• The actionable elements of emotional intelligence and how it functions as an action verb.
• Bridging generational gaps in the workplace through adaptability and mutual understanding.
• The balance of emotional intelligence traits for effective leadership.
• Navigating biases and building positive workplace cultures centered around collaboration.

Join Tess and Susan in unraveling how you can harness the power of emotional intelligence to not only enhance your personal growth but to positively influence those around you. Remember, change starts with conversation. Tune in and take the steps to clean up the Gen Mess, one relationship at a time.

TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW

00:00 "Exploring EQ with Tess"

04:05 "People Trump Tech in Leadership"

07:12 Understanding Self-Awareness in EQ

11:44 Generational Work Expectations Clash

16:29 "Office Culture: 'Suck It Up'"

19:04 Youth Emotional Intelligence in Careers

20:27 Transition to Emotional Intelligence

26:03 "Conquer Your Quarter-Life Crisis"

27:49 "Shifting Value: Soft vs. Hard Skills"

31:31 Generational Shift in Feedback Culture

34:24 Career Satisfaction and Workplace Shift

39:09 Guidelines for Effective Communication

40:17 Coaching Needed for Young Managers

44:56 "Emotional Intelligence Through Observation"

48:05 "Pay Attention: Value in Collaboration"

51:13 Adaptable Decision Makers Succeed

54:18 "Emotional Intelligence: From Type A to B"

Follow for weekly episodes, and be sure to visit tessbrigham.com to learn more about Tess's work as a licensed therapist and certified coach.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.