230 – Why Gen Z Isn’t the Problem (And What Leaders Need to Fix)
June 30, 2026
If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by what feels like a disconnect between generations in your team—especially when working with Gen Z—this episode will shift your perspective. Rather than blaming younger employees for a lack of accountability or work ethic, this conversation with Trudy MacDonald reframes the issue: it’s not about effort, it’s about expectations, communication, and leadership. You’ll walk away with practical ways to improve accountability, have better conversations, and create a more aligned and productive team, regardless of age.
What you’ll learn:
- Why Gen Z isn’t the problem and what’s really driving workplace friction
- How generational differences shape expectations around work, feedback, and accountability
- The role of empathy in bridging the gap between leaders and younger employees
- How to create a feedback-rich culture where conversations flow up, down, and across teams
- Why many accountability conversations fail and how to improve them
- A simple framework (SBI: Situation, Behaviour, Impact) to give clearer, more constructive feedback
- How to shift from blame to curiosity when addressing performance issues
- Why setting clear outcomes matters more than controlling how work gets done
- The importance of regular check-ins and consistent communication rhythms
- How to agree on next steps so accountability conversations actually lead to action
At its core, this episode is about leadership evolution. The workplace has changed, and expectations have shifted, but the opportunity is significant. By combining empathy with accountability, creating space for open dialogue, and being intentional in how feedback is delivered, leaders can unlock the full potential of every generation. The conversation finishes with a simple but powerful reminder: stay curious. That’s the key to better communication, stronger teams, and better outcomes.
For more great conversations, check out Trudy’s previous episodes here:
Ep 152 – From Burnout to Brilliance: Transforming Workplace Culture
Ep 169 – Rethinking Pay: Why Your Top Talent Might Be Eyeing the Exit
Trudy MacDonald has worked extensively with Boards, leaders and leadership teams over the past 20 years and is a sought-after coach to leaders across industries.
She is an experienced CEO, an established business leader and thought leader in the areas of strategy, people, and culture. She specialises in empowering organisations to become great by maximising the performance and productivity of their people.
She is a multi-award-winning speaker having been honoured as “Speaker of the Year” by the world’s largest CEO network – The Executive Connection (TEC). Trudy is a regular speaker to Leaders and Boards and regularly presents on the topics of strategy, high performance organisations and leadership at Industry Associations, Conferences and Corporate Events. Her career is founded on an education in Organisational Psychology and spans Australia, New Zealand, the USA and parts of Asia.
