The BarberShop with Shantanu 2 CEOs vs 2 GEN Zs | The Bridge S1E1: Is hustle culture killing India's next generation?
Jun 6, 2025
Radhika Gupta, MD & CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, joins young leaders Vidit Dugar and Gauri Bansal for a lively roundtable on the clash between hustle culture and Gen Z's work expectations. They tackle whether Gen Z is truly underperforming or simply redefining success while juggling mental health challenges. The discussion reveals how societal pressures and social media shape their views on productivity and fulfillment, emphasizing the urgent need for generational dialogue and a healthier work environment.
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Work Hours Need Clear Returns
- Gen Z values hard work but rejects time wasted in low-return jobs and wants to allocate hours to side hustles and life.
- They will invest long hours only when economic returns or ownership trajectories justify that sacrifice.
Hustle Reframed As Life Diversification
- Hustle for Gen Z means pursuing multiple gratifying roles, not just climbing corporate ladders.
- The generation chases diversified satisfaction across fitness, social life, work and creative outlets.
Make Work Worth The Extra Hours
- Employers should make work enjoyable and provide visible career compounding to earn extra hours from employees.
- Communicate growth paths early so employees see why temporary stretches matter.