304 | Bonus Episode - How to Lead Gen Z in the Workplace: What Every Executive Needs to Know

Aug 5, 2025

Zach Meerkreebs, a pastor and leadership coach renowned for guiding Gen Z students, shares his insights on leading this dynamic generation. He discusses the unique blend of authenticity and high expectations that defines Gen Z’s approach to work. Zach highlights the importance of empathy and clear communication in leadership while advocating for the investment in younger team members. Drawing from his experience with a remarkable movement at Asbury University, he emphasizes nurturing Gen Z's voices and fostering collaboration across generations.

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ANECDOTE

Unexpected Revival Spark

Zach Meerkreebs shared how a chapel message he felt was a failure sparked a 16-day spiritual outpouring at Asbury University.
Approximately 80,000 people congregated, drawn by authentic, humble expressions of faith rather than spectacle.

INSIGHT

Gen Z: The Corrective Generation

Gen Z is known as the "corrective generation," unafraid to challenge norms with fresh solutions.
Leaders must meet their spirited corrections with humility and curiosity rather than dismissal.

ADVICE

Pay the Leadership Tax

Pay the leadership tax by investing extra time mentoring young team members to help them succeed.
Guide their ideas tactfully, coaching them on workplace communication and interaction.

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As the summer of leadership series wraps up, we’re diving deep into one of today’s most urgent leadership challenges: effectively leading Gen Z. This special bonus episode features an exclusive conversation between Jenni Catron and Zach Meerkreebs, a seasoned pastor who has walked alongside Gen Z students during their formative college years. Zach brings a unique, frontline perspective on what it truly takes to engage, empower, and inspire this emerging generation in the workplace.

Why does leading Gen Z challenge everything seasoned leaders thought they knew? Because this generation operates with a fresh mix of authenticity, high expectations, and a corrective spirit that’s reshaping organizational culture. Zach unpacks the “why” behind Gen Z’s motivations and the “how” executive leaders can create space for their voices, foster their growth, and cultivate a thriving multigenerational team.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

The defining values and leadership styles of Gen Z that every leader needs to understand
How empathy and consecrated curiosity can transform your approach to coaching and feedback
Why paying the “leadership tax” for younger team members is an investment, not a cost
How to set clear expectations while honoring authenticity and a hunger for meaningful impact
Real-world insights from Zach’s experience shepherding Gen Z through a powerful moment of revival and transformation in college ministry

About Zach Meerkreebs:
Zach is a pastor, leadership coach, and author who has dedicated his career to developing leaders and mentoring Gen Z students. Most recently, Zach led a historic spiritual movement at Asbury University, engaging tens of thousands of young people in a powerful awakening. His new book, Lower: How Humility Shapes Leaders and Transforms Culture, explores the role of humility as a leadership superpower in today’s complex world.

Where to connect with Zach & learn more:

Grab Zach’s book Lower to dive deeper into leadership and humility
Follow Zach on social media for ongoing leadership insights and encouragement. (Instagram)
Visit the Barnabas Collective, Zach’s nonprofit focused on leader renewal and growth

If you’re leading Gen Z on your team — or preparing to — this episode is an essential listen. Let Jenni and Zach guide you through the challenges and opportunities of stewarding this next generation of leaders with clarity, confidence, and heart.

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