We Tested a Gen Z Advisory Model. Here’s What We Learned.

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We Tested a Gen Z Advisory Model. Here’s What We Learned.

In this milestone 100th episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, recorded live at our industry's largest trade show, Amanda Schneider is joined by Candon Murphy (HOK), Joseph Oliveri (Corgan), and Caroline Murphy (FutureGen) to put a new idea to the test: What happens when you give Gen Z a real seat at the table?

Building on years of ThinkLab research and an ongoing Gen Z cohort, this live conversation explores a Gen Z advisory model designed to bring the next generation into real business decisions—not as observers, but as contributors. Together, the panel uncovers fresh perspectives on leadership, collaboration, communication, and the future of work, challenging long-held assumptions about what younger professionals really want and what organizations can learn from listening. Rather than talking about Gen Z, this episode demonstrates what happens when leaders talk with them.

In this episode:

• Why ThinkLab created a Gen Z advisory model and what it revealed
• How younger professionals are reshaping leadership and collaboration
• What organizations gain by inviting emerging voices into business decisions
• Where generations align—and where they see the future differently
• Practical lessons for leaders preparing their organizations for what's next

Links Mentioned: 

• Grab your copy of Work for What's Next.

• Sign up for ThinkLab’s Newsletter to keep up with industry trends.

• Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more workplace insights. 

• Book Amanda for a speaking engagement. 

READ THE TRANSCRIPT

Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at surroundpodcasts.com. This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. 

Special thanks to our podcast episode sponsors,  NeoCon and SURROUND -- companies doing big things to move the design industry forward.