ReThinking Generational differences are vastly exaggerated
26 snips
Jun 10, 2025 
Nicole Smith, a journalist turned newsroom manager, and Jennifer Deal, a senior research scientist specializing in generational workplace dynamics, tackle the exaggerated stereotypes surrounding different age groups. They discuss how perceived generational differences can actually obstruct collaboration rather than enhance it. Smith shares her experiences navigating the divide between seasoned print journalists and younger digital natives. The conversation highlights that workplace conflicts often arise from issues of status and respect, not age, urging a shift in focus to individual capabilities.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Invisible Generational Barrier
- Nicole Smith faced visible generational barriers in her newsroom between older print and younger digital journalists.
- None of the older journalists crossed the invisible boundary to collaborate initially, showing deep divides.
Generational Stereotypes Are Cyclic
- Generational stereotypes recycle every few decades as the illusion of moral decline.
- People forget their own younger selves and unfairly judge younger generations compared to their current selves.
Life Stage Trumps Generation
- Generations share many values like fair pay and respect, but differ in how they express these.
- Life stage issues like parenting affect work needs more than generational cohort does.