In this thoughtful and engaging episode, Sarah Sladek sits down with Erin Mantz, founder of Gen X Girls Grow Up and VP of Marketing at Zeno Group, to explore the evolving dynamics of generational communication and workplace engagement. Erin shares insights from her recent Fortune interview about Gen Z's communication preferences and challenges stereotypes with her own professional observations.

The two dive into the rising importance of connection, mental health, and mentorship in today’s workforce. They reflect on how generational differences—especially between Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z—affect leadership, employee satisfaction, and innovation. Erin also introduces Project Gap, an initiative designed to close communication divides between today’s leaders and the next generation.

In this episode of Membership IQ, host Sarah Sladek is joined by Susan Swart, a longtime leader in the nursing association world and founder of a niche association management company in Illinois. Together, they explore the unique challenges and opportunities facing nursing organizations today—from engaging younger generations to fostering transparent, community-driven leadership.

Susan shares powerful insights on navigating rapid change, encouraging inclusivity across generational divides, and learning through failure. She emphasizes the value of transparency, experimentation, and empowering frontline professionals to shape the future. The conversation highlights a shift away from perfectionism toward purpose-driven collaboration—where listening, peer support, and human-centered leadership drive innovation in membership organizations.

In this episode of Membership IQ, Sarah Sladek sits down with Tom Gehring—retired Navy officer, former CEO, and founder of a health leadership academy—to unpack the essentials of strategic leadership in chaotic times. With wit and wisdom, Tom outlines the four major barriers leaders face today: time scarcity, lack of actionable follow-through, excessive non-value-added tasks, and what he calls “the branching problem” of modern complexity.

From submarine life to managing physicians, Tom shares stories and strategies that highlight the importance of simplifying decisions, mentoring the next generation, and leading with integrity. His practical leadership compass—seven roles every leader should play—serves as a timeless guide in an era of rapid change. Whether you're steering a membership organization or leading a team, this conversation is a masterclass in meaningful leadership and human connection.