From X to Z
Purple Acorn
Welcome to From X to Z, the show that believes you never age out of learning about the world around you. Featuring social media maven Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen, the analyst who puts the X in ‘expert,’ they’re here to talk all things jobs, HR, and trends. So mind the generational gap, this is From X to Z.
Episodes
#23 - Rethinking Career Commitment Across Generations
From X to Z
Gen Z is shaking up the workplace with a very different approach to careers—and employers are taking notice. A new survey shows nearly half of Gen Z plans to leave their job within a year, with many averaging less than two years in a role. What does this mean for organizations trying to build loyalty, and for young professionals navigating their early careers? Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen dig into the data, exploring why Gen Z is redefining career commitment and how companies can adapt to a workforce that values growth, purpose, and flexibility over long-term tenure. They challenge assumptions about loyalty, discuss the implications for hiring and retention strategies, and consider how leaders can create environments that inspire people to stay. Whether you’re leading a multigenerational team or rethinking your own career path, this conversation offers sharp insights into the future of work—and why the definition of commitment is changing fast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#22 - What Today’s Workforce Wants From Employers
From X to Z
Work isn’t just changing—it’s transforming before our eyes. From shifting career paths to the growing influence of technology, today’s workplace looks nothing like it did even a decade ago. But what does that mean for employees, leaders, and organizations trying to keep up? Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen bring two very different perspectives to the conversation—one rooted in the Gen Z experience of entering the workforce, the other shaped by years of analyzing HR trends across industries. Together, they unpack how generational expectations influence everything from job satisfaction to leadership styles, and why listening across age groups is the key to thriving in a rapidly evolving world of work. Whether you’re navigating your first role, leading teams through change, or rethinking the future of talent strategy, this episode offers fresh insights and actionable takeaways for anyone invested in the human side of work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#21 - The 'Gen Z Stare': What Does It Mean? We Can't Ignore It.
From X to Z
Hosts Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnon tackle the social media phenomenon known as the "Gen Z Stare". Danielle describes it as a flat, zombie-like, and disengaged expression that is often difficult to read, particularly in the workplace or when interacting with customers. Mervyn and Danielle demonstrate the stare before exploring its origins. Danielle cites a TikTok therapist who suggests the stare is a symptom of a larger cultural shift, where Gen Z wants to skip small talk and get straight to the point because pleasantries can be exhausting to them. This shift may be rooted in a decrease in social interactions due to the pandemic and an increased reliance on digital communication. Mervyn agrees that the nature of person-to-person interaction has changed, noting that in the past, small talk was a key part of customer service and positive customer experiences. He believes that with more forms of communication, the era of small talk is fading. Danielle adds that the many different ways to connect, from liking a post to in-person meetings, have created a sense of "superficial connection" that contributes to higher levels of loneliness among young people. The hosts discuss how a manager could respond to the "Gen Z Stare" by being curious and asking if something is going on. Danielle suggests that by offering their own personal tips or narratives, a manager can build trust and earn the employee's attention. Mervyn emphasizes that politeness costs nothing and that in a working environment, it's important to be polite to everyone because you never know when your paths will cross again. He concludes by stressing the importance of maintaining humanity in human resources and not cutting off human interaction in an age of digital communication and AI. Danielle agrees, stating that the ability to make people feel a certain way and inspire them to go above and beyond is a skill that helps ensure job security in a world with AI. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#20 - Nearly 9% of Younger Workers Use Alcohol or Drugs at Work
From X to Z
Hosts Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnon discuss a recent headline about younger workers and substance use in the workplace. Danielle begins by sharing her weekend, which included a course on public speaking and a trip to Long Island to visit family. Mervyn recounts his weekend activities, which involved an open-air concert in Kent and a walk along the River Thames. The hosts dive into the main topic, prompted by the statistic that nearly 9% of younger workers use alcohol or drugs at work. Mervyn initially finds the headline to be "clickbait" and compares it to past workplace cultures, recalling a time in the UK when drinking during lunch was common, though not necessarily at one's desk. Danielle references a study from the American Journal of Industrial Medicine that found 5.6% of employees surveyed drank alcohol at work, while 3.1% used marijuana and 0.8% used hard drugs. The study also showed higher substance abuse among food industry, white-collar, and safety-sensitive workers. Danielle notes that while drug positivity rates have decreased, drug test cheating has increased, suggesting people may be using substances on weekends and trying to avoid detection at work. She questions the practice of drug and alcohol testing for recreational use, arguing that workplace policies should reflect the evolving cultural perspective on these substances. Mervyn and Danielle also discuss the historical context of substance use in the workplace. Danielle mentions a statistic that in 1971, one in ten US executives were considered "functioning alcoholics". Mervyn points out that people often underestimate the lingering effects of substances on their work performance the following day. Danielle concludes the conversation by suggesting that the concept of using "uppers" to get through the workday is not new, but the methods have changed. She highlights the rise of supplements and other "healthier ways" to achieve a boost, noting a shift from traditional substances to things like "functional mushrooms" and "neuro gum". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#19 - Saying vs. Supporting: A Workplace Disconnect
From X to Z
In this episode of From X to Z, Mervyn Dinnen and Danielle Farage dive into the messy middle of workplace transformation—where systems are shifting, but expectations haven’t caught up. They explore the gap between what organizations say they want (innovation, agility, inclusion) and what they actually support through policy, leadership, and structure. From the myth of “readiness” to the dangers of waiting for permission to act, Mervyn and Danielle challenge conventional thinking and offer a more adaptive, human lens for navigating change. If you’ve ever felt stuck between old models and new realities, this episode will resonate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#18 - How to Build Trust in an Era of Surveillance
From X to Z
Mervyn Dinnen and Danielle Farage tackle the tension between policy and people in today’s evolving workplace. They discuss how rigid compliance structures can clash with human-centered values, explore the risks of over-regulating culture, and examine the growing disconnect between leadership intent and employee experience. The conversation covers hot topics like return-to-office mandates, performance surveillance, trust erosion, and why nuance is essential for modern HR. For anyone navigating the complexities of leading with both structure and empathy, this episode offers honest insights and practical perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
# 17 - Gen Z’s Take on Work, Ambition, and Burnout
From X to Z
In this episode of From X to Z, Mervyn Dinnen and Danielle Farage explore the evolving expectations around work, performance, and success across generations. They unpack how younger workers are redefining ambition, why traditional career paths are being questioned, and what this all means for leaders trying to retain and engage top talent. This candid conversation touches on burnout, work-life integration, the value of transparency, and how to create cultures where people feel seen, heard, and supported. If you're rethinking how to build trust and drive performance in today’s world of work, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#16 - How to Lead Change Without Losing Trust
From X to Z
In this episode of From X to Z, Mervyn Dinnen and Danielle Farage explore why organizational change is so hard to implement—and what leaders can do about it. They break down the emotional and structural barriers that cause resistance, discuss the importance of clarity and trust, and share real-world insights on how to lead change that actually sticks. Topics include why change initiatives often fail, how generational perspectives shape adoption, and what it takes to move people and culture forward in today's dynamic work environment. If you’re navigating change at any level, this conversation is full of practical takeaways you won’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#15 - TA in Transition: Heidi Barnett on Merging Brands, AI, and the Future of Hiring
From X to Z
Live from the UNLEASH America expo floor, Mervyn Dinnen sits down with Heidi Barnett, President of Talent Acquisition at isolved, to explore the evolution of TA through strategic integrations, AI innovation, and generational shifts in the workforce. Heidi shares the story behind the transition from ApplicantPro to isolved, the rise of smaller recruiting teams handling more complexity, and why efficiency—without losing the human touch—is the name of the game. They dive into how AI is reshaping recruiter roles, candidate expectations, and entry-level hiring, and what companies must do now to adapt to changing talent dynamics. Takeaways include: Why the TA market is more turbulent—and more exciting—than ever The hidden impact of generational delays in workforce entry and retirement How AI can empower, not replace, recruiters—if used with human oversight Rethinking candidate experience in a post-job-posting world Why reskilling, adaptability, and logic still matter in an AI-driven future 🎙 Presented by Purple Acorn Network 📍 Recorded at the PeopleInsights by HireRoad booth at UNLEASH America Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#14 - From HR Leader to Tech Trailblazer: Jocelyn King on Automating Compliance
From X to Z
Jocelyn King, CEO of Virgil HR, joins Mervyn Dinnen live from UNLEASH America to share how she's transforming the HR compliance landscape through automation and AI. Drawing on her experience as a global HR leader, Jocelyn explains the compliance headaches that inspired her to build Virgil’s prescriptive legal chatbot—and how it's helping HR teams stay compliant across multiple states without legal degrees or endless Google searches. They explore what HR teams need to know about evaluating AI tools, how to build cross-functional advisory boards, and why remote and hybrid work models have made compliance even more complex. Plus, Jocelyn offers a sneak peek at what's next for Virgil HR and her vision for the future of AI-driven compliance. Key Takeaways: Why HR teams can’t afford to ignore compliance automation The missing AI knowledge gap in most HR departments Fundraising lessons from launching a startup post-2021 What generational differences mean for talent development today How Virgil HR integrates into HRIS systems for real-time legal guidance 📍 Recorded at the PeopleInsights by HireRoad booth 🎧 Part of the Purple Acorn Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#13 - Why Gen Z Managers Are Struggling—and It’s Not Their Fault
From X to Z
Is Gen Z too confusing—or are we just not listening closely enough? In this episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen dig into the real challenges organizations face when trying to engage and support their youngest employees. From HR leaders unsure how to guide Gen Z managers to the widening skills gap in leadership development, this episode explores why companies are struggling to meet a generation that’s demanding more purpose, flexibility, and growth. Fresh from conferences like UNLEASH and ERE, Danielle and Mervyn share what they’re hearing on the ground—from the overuse of AI buzzwords to the underdevelopment of soft skills—and how generational disconnects are showing up in real workplace dynamics. With personal stories, research-backed insights, and plenty of laughs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating today’s multi-generational workforce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#12 - Names, Nations, and Navigating Identity in the Workplace
From X to Z
Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen open with a cross-continental catch-up—from New York to London—blending personal stories and cultural commentary, including Danielle’s journey with the pronunciation and evolution of her last name. They dig into how names and backgrounds influence perception in the workplace and why identity still plays a subtle but powerful role in professional interactions. The conversation then turns to one of the hottest Gen Z workplace trends: skipping college for the trades. Referencing the headline-grabbing article, “Gen Z workers increasingly opt out of college and into the trades: ‘There are about 2 million fewer students,’ says expert”, the hosts explore what’s driving this shift, what it means for the future of work, and how employers need to adapt. With wit, wisdom, and a global perspective, this episode delivers insight for anyone navigating generational and cultural change in today’s workforce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#11 - The Trust Gap: Why Gen Z Demands More from Employers
From X to Z
In this eye-opening episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen examine the growing trust gap between Gen Z employees and their employers. They dive into why Gen Z is increasingly skeptical of leadership, what transparency and accountability mean in today’s workplace, and how organizations can rebuild credibility with younger talent. The conversation covers everything from corporate ethics to the role of social media in shaping workplace expectations—offering actionable insights for leaders seeking to foster trust across generations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#10 - Redefining Success: Gen Z’s Bold Approach to Work and Identity
From X to Z
What if climbing the corporate ladder is no longer the dream—but a red flag? In this eye-opening episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen explore how Gen Z is flipping the script on success, trading in titles and traditional ambition for authenticity, alignment, and impact. Today’s youngest professionals are no longer separating who they are from what they do—and they’re demanding that work reflects their values, identities, and need for personal fulfillment. This conversation dives deep into how Gen Z is reshaping organizational culture, rejecting rigid career paths, and redefining what it means to thrive in the modern workplace. Danielle and Mervyn unpack the ripple effects across generations, revealing the new rules for collaboration, leadership, and building workplaces where everyone—from interns to executives—can belong and grow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#9 - Challenging Workplace Norms: The Gen Z Effect
From X to Z
Is success still about climbing the ladder—or is Gen Z building an entirely new one? As the youngest generation in the workforce challenges long-held ideas about ambition, identity, and fulfillment, a seismic shift is underway in how we define a meaningful career. This episode explores how Gen Z is blending personal values with professional goals, demanding more inclusive, flexible, and purpose-driven workplaces—and rejecting the notion that success must come at the expense of self. From rethinking career paths to reshaping company culture, this conversation reveals the transformative impact Gen Z is having across teams, industries, and generations. With fresh insights and bold questions, the episode unpacks what it truly means to thrive in a world of work that’s being reimagined from the ground up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#8 - Mental Health at Work: A Generational Shift
From X to Z
What if your company offered psychedelic therapy or a concierge to help with elder care? Workplace mental health is undergoing a radical transformation—and Gen Z is helping lead the charge. In this episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen explore how attitudes toward mental wellbeing at work have shifted from silence and stigma to openness and innovation. They trace the evolution across generations—from the “leave your problems at the door” mindset to a new era where emotional health, work-life balance, and mental clarity are seen as essential to performance. With a spotlight on emerging benefits, cultural expectations, and the pressures of always-on technology, this conversation unpacks how companies can better support a workforce that’s overwhelmed, hyperconnected, and demanding more than just a paycheck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#7 - Micro-Retirements: Gen Z Breaks the Mold
From X to Z
What if the key to a fulfilling career isn’t climbing the ladder nonstop—but stepping off it on purpose? In this episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen dive into the growing trend of “micro-retirements,” where Gen Z workers are breaking free from the traditional 9-to-5 grind and embracing intentional pauses throughout their careers. These aren’t gaps—they’re strategic breaks for travel, upskilling, creative exploration, and personal growth. Is this a bold generational reimagining of success, or simply a natural response to the fluid, tech-driven world of work? Danielle and Mervyn unpack what’s fueling this shift, explore the implications for employers and workplace culture, and debate whether “micro-retirement” is even the right term for this evolving approach to work-life balance and career design. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#6 - Are Gen Z Really Annoying Coworkers?
From X to Z
Are Gen Z really the most annoying co-workers—or are they just rewriting the rules of work? In this punchy episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen unpack a viral article that paints Gen Z as workplace troublemakers and ask the bigger question: what’s actually behind the label? With Mervyn’s Gen X lens and Danielle’s insider perspective on younger generations, they explore the real friction points—like shifting expectations around purpose, feedback, boundaries, and what it means to grow in your career. Is “annoying” just a stand-in for “different”? And are these differences a threat to workplace culture—or the key to evolving it? This conversation cuts through the noise to reveal what’s really going on across generational lines—and why it matters for every organization. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#5 - Gen Z Work Ethic: Lazy or Realistic?
From X to Z
Is Gen Z really lazy—or just fed up with a system that no longer works? In this fiery episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen dig into a controversial Fortune article questioning Gen Z’s work ethic and take a closer look at the stereotypes fueling the debate. What older generations might see as entitlement, Gen Z frames as a demand for fairness, flexibility, and purpose. From skyrocketing living costs and stagnant wages to a complete reimagining of what a “career” even looks like, this conversation unpacks the real forces shaping Gen Z’s relationship with work. Danielle and Mervyn examine how generational expectations collide with today’s economic realities—and challenge listeners to rethink what work ethic actually means in a world that’s changing faster than ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#4 - RTO or GTFO? Gen Z’s Take on the Office Comeback
From X to Z
Is forcing people back to the office a return to normal—or a step backward? In this timely episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen tackle the heated debate around Return to Office (RTO) mandates and what they really mean for the future of work. As more companies push for in-person attendance, Gen Z finds itself caught between outdated assumptions and a desire for connection and flexibility. Danielle and Mervyn break down the generational divide in workplace expectations, challenging the myth that Gen Z wants to work exclusively from home. They explore how this generation views office culture, the evolving definition of “hard work,” and how economic pressure and outdated policies are clashing with a new workforce mindset. It’s a must-listen for leaders trying to bridge generational gaps and build a workplace that actually works. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#3 - Gen Z and the Future of Careers: Adaptability, Curiosity, and Why Accounting is Back
From X to Z
What if the key to future-proofing your career is thinking more like Gen Z? In this forward-looking episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen explore how the youngest generation in the workforce is quietly reshaping the career landscape. Backed by a new report showing lower termination rates and increased employer investment in Gen Z talent, the conversation dives into what’s driving this shift—and what it means for the future of work. Danielle and Mervyn break down Gen Z’s values—continuous learning, flexibility, and purpose—and how they contrast with the linear career paths of previous generations. They highlight the power of adaptability and curiosity in a rapidly changing economy and even spotlight the unexpected comeback of accounting as one of the most in-demand professions. Whether you're launching your career or leading the next generation, this episode offers smart, practical insights for staying relevant and resilient in the modern job market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#2 - Generational Gaps and the Future of Workplace Flexibility
From X to Z
Is the push to return to the office solving problems—or creating new ones? In this episode of From X to Z, Danielle Farage and Mervyn Dinnen dig into the hot-button debate around Return to Office (RTO) mandates and why they’re landing differently across generations. As companies double down on in-person policies, younger workers—especially Gen Z—are questioning whether proximity actually equals productivity. With insights from recent research and firsthand generational perspectives, Danielle and Mervyn unpack the myths around Gen Z’s work preferences, the real reasons behind the RTO movement, and what today’s talent actually wants: flexibility, purpose, and meaningful in-person moments—not just butts in seats. This conversation offers a nuanced look at how to bridge generational divides and reimagine workplace structures to meet the evolving expectations of a modern workforce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
#1 - Gen Z's Manager Dilemma
From X to Z
Why doesn’t Gen Z want to be your boss? A new study shows that climbing the corporate ladder into middle management isn’t on their vision board—and it’s forcing companies to rethink how they define leadership. This episode explores the generational shift in workplace expectations, where autonomy, purpose, and personal growth often outweigh job titles and traditional success metrics. From reimagining the role of managers in hybrid work environments to questioning whether organizations are truly equipping leaders with the emotional intelligence needed today, this conversation dives deep into what it really takes to engage and retain Gen Z talent. If you’re managing young professionals—or hoping to—this episode will challenge your assumptions and offer fresh insights into the future of leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices