Adulting isn’t something they teach in school, but Heather Redisch is here to help college graduates figure it out.
I see it all the time—young professionals landing their first jobs and feeling completely unprepared. Why does the transition from school to career feel so overwhelming? Heather Redisch, founder of The Talent Maven and creator of the Adulting 101 Masterclass, has spent nearly 25 years in recruiting and has noticed a shift. College graduates today struggle with confidence, communication, and the realities of professional life in ways previous generations didn’t. The rise of smartphones, helicopter parenting, and the impact of COVID-19 have all played a role, leaving many feeling unsure of how to step into the working world.
In this episode, Heather and I dig into what’s missing and what young professionals can do to set themselves up for success. We talk about work ethic, resilience, and the small, uncomfortable steps that build confidence over time. We also get into the generational disconnect in the workplace, why older employees misinterpret the behaviors of younger colleagues and how both sides can bridge that gap.
Success isn’t about having it all figured out on day one. It’s about learning, adapting, and taking action. Heather’s Adulting 101 Masterclass gives college graduates the tools and support they need to step into their careers with confidence.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction
05:09 Challenges of Transitioning to Adulthood
07:07 The Anxious Generation and Technology
08:02 Helicopter Parenting and Its Effects
10:05 The Role of Confidence in Adulting
11:00 Communication Skills in the Digital Age
13:01 Generational Differences in the Workplace
15:04 Building Resilience and Facing Awkwardness
16:04 Being Comfortable with Uncomfortable
17:09 Misconceptions About Gen Z
18:08 Bridging the Generational Gap
20:22 Skills Can Be Learned: Etiquette and Resilience
21:14 The Role of Mental Health in the Workplace
22:07 Balancing Entitlement and Responsibility
23:08 The Reality of First Jobs
24:06 The Importance of Foundational Skills
26:04 Career Paths Are Not Linear
27:04 Valuable Skills for Graduates
29:10 Practical Tips for Building Confidence
31:10 The Importance of Proactivity
32:28 The Role of Feedback in Growth
33:10 Celebrating Small Wins
34:11 Accepting and Learning from Feedback
35:15 Closing
Connect with Heather Redisch:
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