Leading in 2026 – Navigating the Multigenerational Workplace with Anna Liotta

As we enter 2026, the workplace continues to evolve with five generations working side by side. Leaders who understand generational expectations and adapt their leadership style will be better positioned to retain top talent and build thriving organizations.

But many leaders still struggle with outdated assumptions about different generations, from work ethic to technology adoption. Understanding these generational codes is no longer optional; it’s essential for organizational success.

Gayle Lantz speaks with Anna Liotta, a generational expert who helps leaders build workplaces where all generations can thrive. Anna works with organizations to upgrade their leadership approaches that go beyond traditional time-and-money exchanges.

Anna offers a fresh perspective on generational differences, challenging common stereotypes and providing practical strategies for leaders. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity over judgment and explains how each generation has built upon the previous one’s achievements.

This episode covers:

• Why we should expect multiple generations in the workplace from now on, and what that means for leaders
• The evolution from work-life balance being a dream to being an expectation and a deserved right
• Understanding the difference between entitlement and legitimate generational expectations
• The concept of “fully currencied” organizations: happiness, compassion, stability, and significance alongside time and money
• The 10-10-10 conversation framework for meaningful employee engagement
• How different generations are approaching and adapting to AI in the workplace
• The evolution of leadership styles from “boss” to “guide” and what Gen Z expects from leaders
• Communication strategies across multiple platforms and generational preferences
• Why curiosity is the antidote to generational friction
• Practical tips for leaders resistant to changing their approach

This episode challenges listeners to get curious about generational differences, upgrade their leadership codes, and create psychological safety for all employees regardless of age or generation.