Wednesday Mar 05, 2025

Adulting 101 with Heather Redisch

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