When employers say “26 is the new 18,” what they’re really noticing is Tim Elmore’s Peter Pan paradox in action: the age of authority is dropping while the age of maturity is rising. In this energizing conversation, Tim and Ginny decode Gen Z’s “magic and tragic”—their native fluency with tech and AI alongside lagging people skills—and offer hopeful, practical ways to coach rather than complain. You’ll hear why childlikeness is fading while childishness expands, how social media turned from connection to performance, and why soft skills (read: people skills) will be the ultimate edge in the AI age. Listen for simple, family-ready reps—hosting adults, letting kids own their schedules, building EQ—and workplace plays like great first days, hobby-like projects, and leading with empathy.
We also get real about the gig economy, shrinking loyalty ladders, and why teens need margin, movement, mindfulness, and management to protect mental health and grow grit. You’ll leave with language that reframes Gen Z from “problem” to “potential,” and with concrete steps for parents, teachers, and team leaders to build self-awareness, social awareness, and emotional regulation in everyday life. Leaders are dealers of hope—start here, share this episode with a friend who’s wrestling with Gen Z, and model the future you want your kids to inherit.
Get your copy of The Future Begins with Z here
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