Episode 1: Difficult or Different? Generations in the Workplace

Is Gen Z really difficult, or just different? In the first full episode of *I Turned Out Fine*, Deborah Grayson Riegel (Gen X, the mom) and Sophie Riegel (Gen Z, the daughter) dig into the generations at work: what each wants from a job, what counts as a benefit now, and how to keep work relationships strong across the age gap. Deborah traces her first job choices back to a would-be comedy career (and a very early bedtime). Sophie makes the case for purpose over payment. Together they get honest about mental health at work, the "pay your dues" debate, and why hard work looks different depending on when you grew up. Plus: listener questions on growth mindset and building bridges between generations, and the debut of Not Yet Sponsors, where they make their pitch to Bombas and Carvel. **In this episode:** - Why Gen X chased stability and Gen Z chases purpose - What counts as a benefit now (hint: flexibility) - Talking about mental health at work, and how a boss can set boundaries without shutting the door - The Gen X myth: independent doesn't mean we don't want feedback - Side hustles, identity, and life beyond your job title - Tips for managing, and being managed by, another generation - Why "difficult" should become "different" **Mentioned in this episode:** - Overcoming Overthinking by Sophie Riegel and Deborah Grayson Riegel - Carol Dweck's research on growth mindset - Daniel Pink's four T's of autonomy: task, technique, time, and team ***Got a question or a topic you want us to tackle? Email us at*** [iturnedoutfinepod@gmail.com](mailto:iturnedoutfinepod@gmail.com)  **Follow **I Turned Out Fine** wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss the next episode!** **Find Sophie Here:** Website: https://sophieriegel.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-riegel-40410017b/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sophie.riegel.357  **Find Deborah Here:** Website: https://deborahgraysonriegel.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgraysonriegel/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deborahgraysonriegel