In this podcast Tyler Thompson, (award-winning speaker and youth communication coach), shares how his split upbringing of local roots and private-school opportunities, led him into public speaking and youth work. He explains how he connects with young people, why mental-health and phone culture matter, and practical ways both young and older people can close the communication gap.

Episode highlights

• Tyler’s background: growing up in Edmonton, the influence of schooling and debating on his speaking career.
• How public speaking and debating shaped his confidence and later work with corporates and youth.
• Observations on youth mental health, the accelerating effects of COVID and social media.
• Practical tips for connecting with young people: use their slang, lean into their passions, keep sessions fun.
• Role-modelling in action. Why young people respond to adults who are “real” not preachy.

Tyler Thompson Takeaways:

• Listen first. Let them feel heard; that builds trust far faster than lecture-style teaching.
• Meet young people where they are. Earn their slang, their tech, and the things they care about.
• Find each young person’s why. Their interests are the lever to pull them out of unhealthy routines.
• Set clear boundaries with compassion — kindness plus structure works better than coddling or shouting.
• Advice for older people. Spend time in younger spaces and try to see the world through their lens before judging.
• Advice for young people. Be willing to learn from older people’s experience. Value can flow both ways.

Tyler Thompson Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerjthompsons

Generationally Speaking Links:

Generationally Speaking Website

Generationally Speaking on LinkedIn

Alastair on LinkedIn