MDSHRM Learning Lab: A New Kind of Diversity: 3 Keys to Turning Generational Friction into High-Performing Teams

Learning Lab:  A New Kind of Diversity: 3 Keys to Turning Generational Friction into High-Performing Teams

Hosted by Kelly Lippenholz

April 29, 2026

12pm to 1pm

Meeting details provided in the registration email.  When registering - Please register and purchase a guest ticket.

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Meeting Details: 

For the first time in history, up to five generations are working side by side — and many leaders feel the tension every single day. From #OKBoomer to #HowToConfuseMillennials, we laugh about generational differences online… but in the workplace, they show up as miscommunication, frustration, disengagement, and even lost revenue.

While organizations often focus on race, gender, and background, only a small percentage intentionally address the very real gap between Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. The result? Conflicting expectations around communication, feedback, work ethic, flexibility, and leadership. In this high-energy workshop, participants will discover how generational differences function like cross-cultural dynamics — each group bringing its own values, motivations, and “language” to the team.

Through humor, real-world examples, and practical tools, participants will learn how to build bridges instead of walls, reduce workplace loneliness, and leverage the strengths of every generation. Instead of managing tension, leaders will walk away equipped to create connection, mentorship across age groups, and cohesive teams that turn generational friction into fuel for innovation and retention.This isn’t a lecture about “kids these days” or “out-of-touch leadership.” It’s a practical roadmap for transforming generational gaps into generational gains.

Learning Objectives:

The audience will be able to:

1. Identify the core values, communication preferences, and workplace expectations of each generation currently represented on their team.
2. Recognize how those differences create both friction and opportunity.
3. Apply practical communication tools to reduce cross-generational misunderstandings and increase clarity, trust, and collaboration.
4. Develop strategies to build intergenerational bridges through mentorship, feedback, and shared purpose — transforming generational tension into higher engagement, morale, and retention.

Speakers Bio:

Kelley Lippenholz

Maxwell Certified Trainer, Speaker and Coach

Certified DISC Behavior Analysis Consultant

Kelly works with HR leaders and people managers to make communication easier and leadership more human—especially across different generations. She uses DISC to help teams understand personality, reduce friction, and communicate in ways that actually work, all while keeping things practical, engaging, and real. Learn more at www.kellylippenholz.com

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