Ever wonder why Gen Z seems to hop jobs so much? Or why titles matter less than purpose? In this episode, we’re breaking down the Gen Z Career Playbook - the rules no one ever told us, but that are shaping the way we work, hustle, and build our careers.
Whether you’re a Gen Z figuring out your next move, or a manager trying to understand the new career mindset, this episode is packed with insights, perspective, and maybe a few lessons we can all learn.
Articles:
- https://www.hrdive.com/news/83-of-gen-z-workers-consider-themselves-job-hoppers-study-suggests/693539/
- https://www.randstad.com/press/2025/genz-workplace-blueprint/
- https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2022/12/23/6-reasons-gen-zers-with-side-hustles-make-the-best-employees/
Links + Resources:
📖 Order my book We’re Human. Not Resources: https://a.co/d/2jkOAdV
🎧 Follow the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and RogersTV
💬 Let’s connect on Instagram: @em.thinkhr
💻 Check out my website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
I'm diving into one of the biggest mindset shifts you can make in your career: separating who you are from what you do. Your job is important, but it’s not your entire identity - and learning to detach the two can actually make your career (and life) better.
As I'm navigating this as well - we're covering how to detach your self-worth from your job title, the importance of building life goals that exist outside of work, reframing career pivots as growth opportunities, and more.
This is your reminder that your career is just part of the story — not the whole thing.
Links + Resources:
📖 Order my book We’re Human. Not Resources: https://a.co/d/2jkOAdV
🎧 Follow the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and RogersTV
💬 Let’s connect on Instagram: @em.thinkhr
💻 Check out my website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
Season 4 is here! In this kickoff episode, I’m catching you up on everything that’s been happening since June - from wedding planning to triathlon training, book launches, and big shifts at Think HR. I’m sharing the highs, the chaos, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way about work, life, and how the two really fit together. Plus, I’ll give you a sneak peek at what you can expect this season on Your Gen Z Co-Worker.
If you’ve ever felt like life and work keep pulling you in different directions, this is your reminder that you’re not alone.
Links + Resources:
📖 Order my book We’re Human. Not Resources: https://a.co/d/2jkOAdV
🎧 Follow the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and RogersTV
is burnout just part of the deal? my guest doesn’t think so - and after this episode, you might not either.
in this episode, I’m joined by Mallory Rowan, anti-burnout educator and 4x founder, to talk about what it really takes to build a sustainable business and life. we unpack the myths of hustle culture, what it means to grow a business, build wealth, and create without burning out. whether you’re building something of your own or just tired of doing things the old way - this conversation is your permission to do it differently.-----
Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker.
Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find Mallory:
IG: @malloryrowan
Website: https://malloryrowan.com/
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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In this episode, I sit down with Layla, host of Heart to Hustle, to dive into what it means to be Gen Z in today’s world - from the perspectives between “elder” and “younger” Gen Z to how we balance ambition with well-being.
We explore the myths about our generation, how we approach work and creativity, and whether our passion-over-paycheck mindset is truly sustainable. Layla also shares her journey of turning storytelling into a career, the power of podcasting for connection, and where she sees Gen Z leading the future of work.
If you’ve ever questioned how to find success without the grind taking over your life, this episode is for you. Tune in for an honest, fun, and eye-opening conversation about redefining careers, passion, and what it really means to hustle with heart. ❤️
Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find Layla:
IG: @hearttohustlepod
Website: https://hearthustlemedia.com/
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
In this episode, Emily chats with Kate Leatherbarrow, city councillor for the City of Woodstock, about her unique journey and the realities of leadership. Kate opens up about the challenges and surprises of stepping into the role, what inspired her to run for council, and how Gen Z can reshape the future of local leadership and community.
What You'll Learn:
✨ Why redefining success and leadership matters for younger generations.
✨ Actionable ways for young people to step up and lead in their communities.
Whether you're curious about politics or how to make an impact as a young leader, this episode is filled with real talk and practical advice.
Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!-----
LINKS:
Find Kate:
IG: @leatherbarrowwoodstock
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
Ever felt like the corporate world just isn't for you? In this episode, Emily sits down with Alyssa to unpack how it's not always the industry that's the problem - but the leadership style, culture, and company values that make all the difference.
Alyssa shares her journey of realizing that it wasn’t corporate life she disliked but the environments that didn’t prioritize transparency, trust, or true employee well-being. She dives into what her current company gets right, from empowering leadership to meaningful check-ins and how a culture of trust (instead of micromanagement) has transformed her work experience.
What You'll Learn:
✨The biggest red flags that signal an unhealthy work environment.
✨What real transparency and trust look like in a company.
✨How leadership shapes the culture and future of work.
✨Actionable advice for companies ready to better support their teams.
Tune in for an honest, empowering conversation about what it really takes to create a workplace where people want to stay and grow.
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Catch the full episode on RogersTV, Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find Alyssa:
IG: @ alyssasmusings
Find Emily:
IG: @ em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
Writing a book is one thing - but having your sister be the first to edit it? That’s a whole new level of real talk! In this episode, I sit down with my sister, the first editor of "We're Human. Not Resources." to dive into her unfiltered thoughts on the book.
We discuss her first impressions, the biggest surprises she found while editing, and what she thinks readers will take away from the book. She also turns the tables on me, asking about the inspiration behind the book, the biggest challenges I faced while writing, and my hopes for its impact on the HR world.
If you’re curious about the behind-the-scenes process of writing "We're Human. Not Resources," or you want a sneak peek into the book’s key themes, this episode is for you. Get ready for an honest, insightful, and sibling-filled conversation about changing how we think about work, individuality, and what it means to be human in the workplace.
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Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
Being your own boss sounds like the ultimate dream - no micromanaging, no rigid schedules, and complete creative freedom. But let’s be real: entrepreneurship isn’t just sipping lattes in cute coffee shops and calling the shots. It’s also full of uncertainty, self-discipline, and wearing all the hats.
In this solo episode, I’m getting real about the highs and lows of running my own business. I’ll share the best parts - like flexibility, impact, and designing a career on my terms - and the hardest parts - like financial unpredictability, decision fatigue, and the occasional loneliness of entrepreneurship. Plus, I’ll break down what I wish I had known before taking the leap and how I’ve built a business that actually works for my life.
Whether you’re already self-employed, thinking about making the jump, or just curious about what it really takes, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!
Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
-----
LINKS:
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
The workforce is evolving, and staying ahead means understanding the trends shaping recruitment, talent retention, and workplace culture. In this episode of Your Gen Z Co-Worker, I sit down with Kerri & Kelly from VP Workforce Solutions to explore the future of work, from hybrid work models to the increasing importance of diversity and inclusivity in recruitment.
We discuss how job seekers can future-proof their careers, and what organizations need to do to attract and retain top talent in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re navigating your own career path or leading a team, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable takeaways.
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Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find VP Workforce Solutions:
IG: @ vpworkforcesolutions
Facebook: VP Workforce Solutions
Website: https://www.vpworkforcesolutions.com/
Find Emily:
IG: @ em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
In this episode of Your Gen Z Co-Worker, I sit down with Lauren from Light and Lau to explore how energy healing, Reiki, and chakra balancing can help us navigate burnout, career transitions, and workplace dynamics.
We dive into how protecting your energy can transform your work life, simple grounding techniques for busy professionals, and what it means to show up authentically in your career.
If you’ve ever felt out of alignment or struggled to balance ambition with well-being, this conversation is for you! 🌿✨
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Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find Lauren & Light and Lau:
IG: @ lightandlau
Facebook: Light & Lau
Find Emily:
IG: @ em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
In this episode of Your Gen Z Co-Worker, I sit down with Holly from the Stratford Perth Centre for Business to talk about entrepreneurship, community, and what it takes to start and grow a business today.
We dive into:
✨ The unique and growing entrepreneurship scene in Stratford Perth
✨ How the Centre for Business supports new and aspiring entrepreneurs
✨ Why Gen Z is leading the charge in redefining business and innovation
✨ Common challenges entrepreneurs face—and how to tackle them head-on
If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business (or just want to know what’s happening in the local entrepreneur space), this one’s for you!
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Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
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LINKS:
Find Holly & the Stratford Perth Centre for Business:
IG: @ stratfordperthbusiness
Website: https://www.stratfordperthbusiness.ca/
Find Emily:
IG: @ em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet-
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
In this episode of Your Gen Z Co-Worker, I sit down with Heather Reeves, a former massage therapist turned wellness entrepreneur, to talk about burnout, balance, and the power of slowing down.Heather shares her journey from 30 years in massage therapy to building a business that helps women shift from overdrive to cruise mode - without guilt. We dive into:✨ The sneaky signs of burnout you might be missing✨ Why saying "no" is a radical act of self-care✨ Practical tools to calm your nervous system when life feels overwhelming✨ How to integrate mindfulness into your daily work-life flowIf you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty, this episode is for you. Tune in now and start reclaiming your energy!Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!-----LINKS:Find Heather:Facebook: Heather Reeves YogaIG: @ heather_reeves_yogaWebsite: https://www.heatherreevesyoga.ca/Overcoming Burnout Masterclass: https://pages.heatherreeves.net/live-training-1Free Guide: https://pages.heatherreeves.net/free-guide-1-oFind Emily:IG: @ em.thinkhrWebsite: https://www.thinkhr.ca/-----Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet-----Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
Ever feel like your career path should make more sense? Same. In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I went from 14 jobs in 7 industries to building a business, launching a YouTube channel, and securing a spot on RogersTV - without following a traditional route.
We’re diving into three game-changing lessons that shaped my journey:
- Embracing Career Pivots – Why trying different jobs (and quitting some) was the best thing I ever did.
- The Power of Authenticity – How being unapologetically me opened doors I never imagined.
- Being ‘Delulu’ on Purpose – Why ignoring the naysayers and believing in big, wild dreams actually works.
Tune in for a real talk, bold moves, and a reminder that success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s redefine what’s possible! #YourGenZCoWorker #LifeOverWork #Podcast
Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
-----
LINKS:
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Intro Song: A Growing Success by Dip Diet
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
I'm catching up with Erica from Bear + Fox Apparel to reflect on her journey since our first chat in Season 1! From evolving perspectives on entrepreneurship to balancing life and business, Erica shares the highs, the challenges, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
Tune in as we discuss:
✨ How her motivations and goals have evolved
✨ New ways she prioritizes life outside of business
✨ Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
✨ A look ahead at what’s next for Bear + Fox Apparel
This episode is packed with inspiration, honesty, and heartfelt reflections - perfect for anyone navigating their own entrepreneurial rollercoaster.
Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨
I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode!
-----
LINKS:
Find Erica:
IG: @ bearandfoxapparel.ca
Website: https://bearandfoxapparel.ca/
Find Emily:
IG: @ em.thinkhr
Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/
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Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
Welcome to Season 3 of Your Gen Z Co-Worker! I'm kicking things off with a fresh perspective on what it means to succeed in today’s world. In this episode, we’re unpacking traditional ideas of success - think: hustle culture and endless ladder climbing - and exploring how Gen Z and Millennials are flipping the script. From prioritizing mental health and work-life balance to celebrating individuality, we’ll discuss actionable ways to define success on your own terms and show up authentically in the workplace. Whether navigating your career, striving for balance, or figuring out what success means to you, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in to reflect, redefine, and realign with what truly matters to you! Catch the full episode on RogersTV - Woodstock Channel 13, YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts✨ I’m Emily, your gen z co-worker. Just a heads up - I’m not a licensed therapist, and this podcast isn’t meant to replace advice from a doctor, coach, therapist, or any other qualified pro. Cool? Cool. Catch you in the next episode! ----- LINKS: Find Emily: IG: @em.thinkhr Website: https://www.thinkhr.ca/ ----- Sign up for my newsletter - "life over work insider" https://www.thinkhr.ca/
"Your Gen Z Co-Worker," the podcast where we break down the workplace and focus on what matters: building well-being into your career, prioritizing life over work, and staying true to yourself.
Hosted by me (a fellow Gen Z-er who's been there, done that, and is still figuring it out); this is your space for real-talk career advice, workplace trends, and actionable insights that put you first.
From ditching outdated office norms to embracing the freedom to thrive authentically, I am here to guide and inspire you. So grab your coffee (or your snack of choice), hit subscribe, and navigate this work-life thing with me on "Your Gen Z Co-Worker."
let me take you through my career journey, reflecting on the 13 different jobs I've had - from university co-op roles to navigating the challenges and discoveries of post-graduation life. along the way, I share insights on the value of trying new things, the lessons learned from unexpected pivots, and the importance of not letting your career define who you are. this episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, exploring their options, or seeking inspiration to embrace the twists and turns of professional life.
-- LINKS:
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
feeling nostalgic this stick season? listen to this episode where I open up about the complexities of navigating exhaustion, self-trust, and the pressure of setting (and meeting) goals. I will share my obvious obsession with to-do lists, how I am celebrating milestones (big and small), and how I am learning to embrace self-acceptance along the way. listen to this episode for insights on prioritizing yourself, redefining success, and navigating life authentically.
-- LINKS:
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr
tune in to an introspective conversation about my journey as an entrepreneur, focusing on the values that drive my career choices and the philosophy of life > work. I open up about the importance of staying true to myself, understanding my "why" in business, and the power of fearless expression in a world that often prioritizes hustle over humanity. a must-listen for anyone interested in creating a work life that’s grounded in purpose and authenticity.
-- LINKS:
Find Emily:
IG: @em.thinkhr