CGK President Jason Dorsey was honored to return to the Out of Home Advertising Association of America’s (OAAA) OOH Media Conference. His return marked his second time speaking at this event, and once again, the experience delivered!! From the energy in the room to the conversations offstage, this year’s conference was yet another phenomenal gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and strategic thinkers in OOH from around the world.

During his main stage session, Jason debuted some of our brand new research discoveries, focused on the behavioral shifts reshaping how each generation thinks, acts, and makes decisions—and how those shifts impact brands, economies, and consumer engagement.

A few key findings Jason covered during his session included:

• How Millennials and Gen Z are reaching major life milestones—like moving out, getting married, or buying a car—on different timelines than previous generations.

• What CGK’s research shows about Gen Z’s mindset around money, work, and financial stability, and why those views are already influencing brand loyalty and trust.

• How trust, timing, and technology continue to shape each generation’s expectations—and what that means for reaching and resonating with them.

Jason has had the opportunity to know and work with OAAA for many years, and each time, his experience underscores why they continue to lead the out-of-home space. They set the pace. They bring the right people into the room. And they consistently create an environment where bold ideas, meaningful data, and innovative strategy come together.

This year’s conference was a powerful reminder of the resilience and momentum within the OOH industry. The innovations presented were undoubtedly inspiring, but even more so were the conversations Jason had after his session concluded with the OOH leaders committed to shaping where the industry goes next.

At CGK, we’re focused on delivering research that helps organizations move beyond generational stereotypes to uncover the true behavioral drivers that create lasting impact and opportunity across all generations. Jason was so grateful to share a few of our new insights at this year’s OOH Media Conference and to be part of a dialogue that’s shaping the future of the industry.

A big thank you from us to the entire OAAA team for inviting Jason to present at such an impactful event! He loved every minute, and is already looking forward to round three.

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At CGK, we’re committed to helping leaders and organizations bridge generational gaps and drive measurable results. That’s why we were honored when Alkami Technology invited our President, Jason Dorsey, to keynote their 2025 Alkami Co:lab conference—an event focused on innovation, digital transformation, and building what’s next.

In his keynote, Jason shared one of his most well-known discoveries:

“Technology is only new if you remember the way it was before.”

This powerful insight underscores a central theme in CGK’s work: Generational context shapes how people engage with the world—including how they experience technology, make decisions, and form expectations as consumers and employees.

For Gen Z, today’s digital tools aren’t seen as revolutionary—they’re simply the way things have always been. This perspective impacts everything from how they apply for jobs and communicate at work to how they shop, learn, and build loyalty with brands. It also means that strategies built for previous generations may not fully resonate with this emerging generation unless they’re updated with intention.

That’s where forward-thinking organizations like Alkami come in. As a leader in digital banking solutions, Alkami is embracing innovation to meet the expectations of the next generation—and creating meaningful connections through technology along the way. Their Co:lab event brought together thought leaders and change agents to explore how to better serve clients, customers, and teams in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Jason’s keynote highlighted how Gen Z is already reshaping the workforce and marketplace—and how organizations can respond with confidence. Rather than replacing what works, businesses can enhance their strategies by layering in Gen Z’s mindset: valuing speed, transparency, digital fluency, and a sense of shared purpose.

This isn’t just a trend. It’s a shift—and one that presents an exciting opportunity for organizations across industries.

We’re excited to continue supporting leaders through this generational transformation. By combining Alkami’s innovative approach with CGK’s data-driven insights, we’re helping companies across sectors unlock the full potential of Gen Z—and every generation.

2025 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year for generational strategy, and we’re just getting started.

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As CGK has grown and evolved since its founding 2011, we’ve been fortunate to work with a variety of team members, from world-class speakers to pioneering generational researchers. For this Team Member Spotlight, CGK President Jason Dorsey is thrilled to interview one of our great team members, who many of you know, Alicia Rainwater.

Alicia has been a Certified Keynote Speaker for CGK since 2015. Since joining CGK, Alicia has inspired, entertained, and educated audiences of leaders across the U.S. and internationally. Her industry clients range from education and healthcare to agriculture, finance, and hospitality. She presents our generational discoveries, research insights, and how-to strategies in her trademark engaging speaking style. If you’ve ever attended one of Alicia’s generational presentations, you know exactly what I mean!

Interviewing Alicia for this Team Member Spotlight was a blast. What stood out most to Jason and the entire team was how rooted she is in the “why” behind what we do—and how she continues to bring both precision, presence, and fun to the stage. We hope you enjoy getting to know her a little bit more and that you reach out to invite her to speak for you. Alicia doesn’t just talk about generations—she connects to the people within them.

Jason: What is one thing most people may not know about you and your work? 

Alicia: “Most people may not know that in addition to being a speaker for CGK, I’m also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and that background adds a valuable depth to my speaking, event preparation, and insights delivery. For me, the best part of this work has always been the people—both the speaking clients we serve and the audiences we have the honor to share our insights and research in a compelling way. My goal is to approach each keynote with curiosity, clarity, and to seek a deep understanding of the different stakeholders in the audience so I can customize my talk for them.”

Jason: What most stood out to you when you considered joining our team?

Alicia: “I was drawn to how CGK uses research to unlock understanding between people who might otherwise talk past each other or not think they have the ability to connect with one another. I love that we make data meaningful—and fun! We give people permission to laugh at what they’ve experienced across generations, and in that moment, they start to be open to see things in a new way.”

That approach resonates with her background in social work. “In clinical work, you’re trained to look at people in context,” she told me. “You ask why someone is behaving a certain way and what experiences shaped them. With generational research, we do the same thing—just at scale. We start with real-world trends, events, and behavioral shifts, then translate that into something leaders can act on.”

That clinical curiosity—paired with her engaging stage presence—makes Alicia especially good at connecting the dots for diverse audiences. She helps people see past stereotypes and into shared experience.

Jason: How do you feel right before you go on stage to speak?  

Alicia “Even after all these years, I still feel a surge of excitement right before presenting. It happens every time. Just being in the room with the audience, I feel their energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity, and it shifts my own energy. As soon as I take the stage, I feel that connection and build on that momentum throughout my talk.

“One of my first keynotes was for a group of education professionals, a space where I had worked directly as a clinical social worker. Right from the beginning, there was so much laughter and engagement in the room during my presentation. It really energized me. Afterward people came up and told me they saw their students and colleagues differently because of my presentation. That’s when I knew this work had real impact.”

Jason: What is one of your favorite quotes or points during your keynote?

Alicia: “One of my favorite moments during my keynote is when audiences light up during the discussion of generational tech shifts. Every time I share CGK’s breakthrough discovery, ‘Technology is only new if you remember it the way it was before’ people light up. They instantly see the work in a new way, and I love that.”

“The same is true when I ask people to share their experiences with technology. Whether it’s talking about electric typewriters, the first time they used a fax machine, or what it felt like to get dial-up internet in their office—it reminds everyone just how much change they’ve lived through. This technology throughline is a powerful connector and shows that even though we’re different we’re all connected as well.”

Jason: What has most changed about generations since you started speaking for CGK?

Alicia: “When I started speaking, all eyes were on Millennials—trying to figure us out. Now, Millennials are increasingly in management and leadership roles. With Gen Z emerging so quickly, I often find myself empathizing more than I originally did with Gen X and Boomers who were trying to understand ‘those young Millennials’ just a decade ago. It is fascinating to see the generational change and continuum in our work!”

Jason: What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your work with speaking clients?

Alicia: The biggest lesson I’ve learned after keynoting so many events is to not assume anything about an audience or industry. I’ve spoken to similar industries in different regions and had completely different experiences. The same is true for working with different companies in the same business in the same state! This always reminds me to meet every audience where they are—and not put people in boxes, even if I’ve spoken in the industry numerous times. I always want to go in ready to learn, observe, and connect.

Jason: That mindset reflects the same message we share in every keynote: generations are not boxes that each of us fit neatly inside. Rather, they are powerful, helpful clues that can help leaders to better connect with, build trust, and influence across people of all ages. We don’t believe in generational stereotypes. We believe in data-driven insights that leaders can rely on.

So, Alicia, what are you most excited about now?

Alicia: “Right now, I’m most excited and inspired about helping new leaders step into their roles with confidence. I’m excited to help more Millennials step fully into leadership roles and even begin mentoring and developing the talent of Gen Z. I believe that Millennials right now are in a unique place—they remember what work was like before some of the more recent tech shifts, such as social media, but they’re also working on how to lead younger and older generations. Helping them bridge that generational gap is incredibly rewarding.”

Jason: What do you most love about speaking?

Alicia: “I’ve spoken to professionals in healthcare, military, education, hospitality, and many more. Every time, I walk away with a deeper appreciation for the work people are doing—and a renewed sense of gratitude for being a small part of their journey. That makes me love this work every day.”

Why We Wanted to Feature Alicia This Month

There’s a reason audiences keep asking for Alicia. She’s thoughtful, smart, deeply engaging, and able to make complex information accessible and actionable. She also instantly connects with audiences, clients, and the message behind our research.

Our team has had the opportunity to see her impact rooms across the country. We are proud to have her on our team, and even more excited for the audiences who get to learn from her.

Alicia brings more than her expertise with her to the stage. She brings our research to life in a way that makes people lean in, laugh, and walk away seeing their teams—and themselves—a little differently. We are inspired to have her on our team!

If you’re interested in learning more about Alicia, or would like to bring her in to speak for your company or organization, please reach out to our friendly team by clicking here.

Thank you for being on this journey of speaking, research, and discovery with Jason, Alicia, and the entire CGK team!

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At CGK, we track the subtle shifts that reveal larger generational trends—and one of the more surprising ones recently gained mainstream attention: Gen Z is ditching capital letters.

CGK President Jason Dorsey was featured in a recent Reader’s Digest article exploring why so many Gen Zers are choosing to text, post, and message in all lowercase—and what that choice reveals about how communication norms are changing.

While this trend may seem trivial or even careless to some older generations, what we’re seeing is actually a generationally driven evolution in tone, authenticity, and digital self-expression.

A Shift Fueled by Digital Behavior and Evolving Education

The lowercase trend isn’t random—it reflects the two major forces shaping Gen Z’s communication style:

1. The rise of social media as their primary form of communication

2. A shift in how writing is taught in schools

Gen Z came of age communicating on platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, where messages are short, casual, and designed to feel personal and in the moment. In that context, formal punctuation and capital letters can come across as overly serious—or even insincere.

As Jason shared in Reader’s Digest, “There’s definitely a trend where Gen Z eschews traditional grammar in written communications. We see this particularly in how they have dropped using capital letters and punctuation.”

In interviews for the article, Gen Zers described lowercase writing as feeling “more natural” or “less formal”—even calling capital letters “fake.” At the same time, schools have moved toward teaching digital literacy over traditional grammar drills, meaning Gen Z has spent more time learning how to communicate effectively online than memorizing sentence diagramming.

Why This Matters in the Workplace

The lowercase trend may feel harmless—or even clever—when used in text messages and social media. But it can create challenges when Gen Z brings this informal tone into professional communication.

At CGK, we consistently hear from employers and cross-generational teams about the friction lowercase communication can cause, especially in emails and formal messages. Some leaders from older generations interpret lowercase messages as careless or unprofessional. In reality, this is simply a generational difference in tone, not intention.

As Jason noted in the article, “These stereotypes aren’t true. This is just evidence of the norms changing, as they always do over time.”

The key for emerging Gen Z professionals is to know their audience. At CGK, we advise Gen Z to adapt their communication style based on context: keep it casual in group chats, but switch to traditional grammar and punctuation when messaging clients or executives. This isn’t about conforming—it’s about clarity and professionalism when it matters most.

Beyond Lowercase: A Bigger Shift in Communication

While the all-lowercase trend is eye-catching, it’s just one part of a larger evolution in how Gen Z and Gen Alpha prefer to communicate. In fact, we’re seeing a growing shift away from written communication altogether.

More young people are turning to voice memos and short videos over texting or emailing—favoring tools like Snapchat, Instagram stories, and iPhone audio messages.

As Jason shared in Reader’s Digest, “One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is the move to voice memos and short videos instead of texting or emails. That means no capitals, no punctuation—just straight-up talking.”

This move reflects what we call at CGK “low-friction communication”—fast, casual, and emotionally expressive. Unlike live phone calls, voice memos allow the sender to think before responding, while still conveying tone and emotion. And for Gen Z, that balance of thoughtfulness and authenticity is key.

The Takeaway: It’s Not About Grammar—It’s About Generational Context

Gen Z’s lowercase messages aren’t about laziness or a disregard for rules—they’re part of a broader shift toward efficient, emotionally resonant, and digitally native communication.

At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we help leaders, educators, and organizations recognize and adapt to these shifts. Understanding the why behind Gen Z’s communication preferences can reduce misinterpretations, improve cross-generational teamwork, and foster greater empathy between colleagues and customers.

Language evolves—and so does every generation’s relationship with it. Lowercase may not become the default forever, but it’s a clear signal that Gen Z is redefining the tone of modern communication.

Check out the full Reader’s Digest article here. To dive deeper into generational trends, explore our annual State of Gen Z research study here or download the first few chapters of our latest book, Zconomy, by clicking here.

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At CGK, we’ve spent years researching how each generation experiences technology, work, and culture—and how these shifts impact the generations that follow. Millennials, the first generation to grow up in both an analog and digital world, are now facing a new and important role: guiding their children through a digital landscape that is vastly different from the one they first encountered.

CGK President Jason Dorsey was recently featured in a Newsweek article discussing this very topic—how Millennials are uniquely positioned to help the next generation develop digital resilience and literacy—and we would like to share some of our favorite insights from the article with you.

From Digital Guinea Pigs to Digital Gatekeepers

Born around the dawn of the internet revolution, Millennials were the first to navigate unfiltered social media, online chat rooms, and the early days of digital communication. Many remember MySpace top friends, AIM away messages, and a time when Facebook was exclusive to college students. They also played a key role in introducing older generations to smartphones and online safety.

Now, as parents, Millennials are reversing roles—teaching their children how to safely engage in a digital world that is evolving at an unprecedented pace.

As Jason shared in Newsweek, “Millennials got a little bit more of the wild west of the internet. They got social media that was a little bit rawer than things are now. Now, those same Millennials are frequently becoming parents and trying to figure out, knowing all we know, how do we think about digital technology with our kids?”

Teaching the Next Generation Digital Resilience

Millennial parents are acutely aware of the risks, challenges, and benefits of technology. Unlike older generations who may view digital platforms as an afterthought or younger generations who have never known life without them, Millennials occupy a unique space in understanding both the promises and pitfalls of an always-connected world.

Because of this, many Millennial parents are proactively engaging their children in discussions about digital literacy. They are explaining why influencers push likes and subscriptions, educating their kids on online scams, and setting boundaries to help them develop critical thinking skills around digital content.

The ability to balance access with protection is a significant challenge. While some parents take a stricter approach, aiming to shield their children from harmful content, others focus on equipping them with the tools to navigate the digital world responsibly. The key, as our research has shown, is helping children develop a strong sense of digital awareness rather than relying solely on restrictions.

Keeping Up with the Rapid Pace of Technology

One of the biggest challenges Millennials face as digital parents is the relentless speed of technological advancement. By the time policies and laws are created to address digital safety concerns, new technologies have often already changed the landscape.

As Jason noted in Newsweek, “By the time a law comes into effect, it may no longer be the right fit because technology has moved so far from when that law was originally written or conceived.”

This means that, for now, the responsibility of digital parenting falls largely on Millennials themselves. They are raising Gen Z and Gen Alpha children in an era of deepfake technology, AI-driven algorithms, and social media influence that extends beyond entertainment to education and identity. The pressures of online comparison, screen time management, and navigating digital interactions are daily challenges for today’s parents.

A More Skeptical Generation is Emerging

Millennials, having experienced both the benefits and the drawbacks of the digital revolution, are raising children who are more aware of the risks of social media and online platforms, potentially resulting in younger generations becoming more skeptical of the content they encounter, whether it be online or “IRL,” to borrow a term from Gen Z!

As Jason shared in Newsweek, “The idea that you can simply trust social media because it’s new and exciting is gone.”

This generational shift signals a major change in how future generations will interact with technology. Rather than viewing digital platforms as inherently positive or trustworthy, Millennials are teaching their children to approach technology with a more critical eye.

Looking Ahead: How Millennials Are Shaping the Future of Digital Parenting

The responsibility of preparing the next generation for a digitally complex future is both challenging and evolving. Millennials, once the test subjects of the digital age, are now serving as mentors—translating their own lessons into guidance for their children.

At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we continue to study how generational experiences shape parenting, technology adoption, and workplace expectations. As Millennials lead this next wave of digital parenting, their influence will play a defining role in how Gen Alpha and beyond interact with technology, social media, and digital culture.

To explore more about this trend, check out the full Newsweek article here. For deeper insights into generational trends, visit our latest State of Gen Z research study or download a free chapter of Zconomy here.

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As we enter 2025, we welcome not just a new year but an entirely new generation—Generation Beta. While these newest members of our society are just beginning to take in the world around them, conversations about their future impact on culture, technology, and the economy are already underway. CGK President Jason Dorsey had the opportunity to share his thoughts on this emerging generation in a feature story for Marketplace, and we want to dive deeper into what these insights mean for businesses, brands, and leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve.

The Rise of Generation Beta

Generation Beta, the cohort born between approximately 2025 and 2039, follows Generation Alpha and will come of age in a world where artificial intelligence, virtual environments, environmental concerns, and (potentially!) space travel are woven into daily life. Their experience will be shaped by the rapidly evolving technological landscape, the values of their Millennial and Gen Z parents, and the global power dynamics they inherit.

While we don’t yet know what personal values Generation Beta will champion, we can make predictions based on the generations before them. Just as Gen Z has been shaped by the internet and social media but is now showing a heightened awareness of digital privacy and technology’s downsides, Generation Beta will likely bring its own nuanced approach to technology use, personal identity, and causes that matter most to them.

What This Means for Marketers and Brands

One of the biggest takeaways from my interview with Marketplace is that, while Generation Beta has no direct buying power yet (they’re only six weeks old, after all), their influence will eventually be undeniable. Their Millennial and Gen Z parents are already making purchasing decisions that will shape Beta’s earliest experiences. Understanding this parental influence is key for brands looking to connect with the families of the future.

Marketers must also recognize the evolving attitudes toward technology. Many Gen Z parents are anecdotally showing increased skepticism toward excessive screen time and digital overexposure. This means that brands catering to young families should think carefully about how they approach digital engagement.

Generations Are Clues, Not A Box

As many of you may know, we at CGK always emphasize that generations are clues and not a box. We view generations as helpful, research-based starting points for understanding trends and finding potential areas for connections, trust, influence, and bringing different groups closer together.

Looking Ahead: Will the Concept of Generations Evolve?

One of the most thought-provoking questions Jason raised in the Marketplace interview was whether generational labels themselves will hold up as the pace of technological change accelerates. If the pace of innovation continues to increase exponentially, will we still define generations by 15+ year birth spans, or will we need a new model to describe shifts in consumer behavior, workforce trends, and societal change?

For now, the emergence and naming of Generation Beta gives us a useful framework for studying change over time. But as AI, automation, and digital environments transform our world at an ever-increasing rate, we may need to rethink how we define birth cohorts in the decades to come.

Final Thoughts

We’re just at the starting line of understanding Generation Beta, but one thing is clear—now is the time for businesses, leaders, and researchers to start thinking about the future they will shepherd as trendsetters. By understanding parenting trends, technological environment, and economic forces shaping this generation, we can prepare for their needs and behaviors long before they enter the workforce or become primary consumers.

At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we’ll be closely tracking the emergence of Generation Beta—along with our continued State of Gen Z annual research series—and sharing our discoveries along the way. If you want to stay ahead in understanding this new generation and what it means for your business, sign up for our newsletter here where you’ll receive our latest research, data, and actionable strategies.

Welcome to the era of Generation Beta. The future starts now.

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At CGK, our research has consistently shown that Gen Z is changing the way individuals, businesses, and nonprofits think about giving. This generation, despite often having limited financial resources, is driving donations, amplifying causes, and influencing others to take action—particularly through digital platforms like GoFundMe.

CGK President Jason Dorsey was recently featured in Yahoo Life discussing this important trend. Gen Z’s approach to philanthropy is redefining charitable giving, making it more personal, digital, and immediate than ever before.

A New Approach to Giving

For older generations, philanthropy often followed a structured model—donating to well-established nonprofits, writing checks, and contributing to large-scale fundraising campaigns. Gen Z, however, has completely reshaped this model. They are drawn to causes with immediate, tangible impact, whether that means helping a friend in need, supporting a local family, or contributing to a grassroots movement.

Rather than focusing solely on national organizations, Gen Z prioritizes direct, personal giving—often to individuals and communities they can see and connect with. They don’t just want to donate; they want to experience the effect of their generosity in real time.

This shift is being powered by platforms like GoFundMe, which make donating as simple as clicking a button. These platforms also allow Gen Z to publicly share their support, encouraging others to join in. Unlike previous generations, who often kept charitable giving private, Gen Z is 10 times more likely to publicly share that they donated, according to GoFundMe. But this isn’t about recognition—it’s about mobilization.

Gen Z’s Real Superpower: Influence

One of the biggest misconceptions about Gen Z and philanthropy is that their impact is limited by their financial resources. In reality, their influence is their greatest asset.

Gen Z is a generation of mobilizers. They are more likely than any previous generation to rally their social networks around a cause, create viral content to drive donations, and use their voices to inspire action. They may not have the deepest pockets, but they have a very strong ability to amplify a message.

What sets Gen Z apart is their authenticity. They won’t support a cause unless they truly believe in it, but when they do, their advocacy is passionate, persistent, and far-reaching. This is a generation that not only gives but also encourages others to do the same.

The Future of Philanthropy Is Digital and Immediate

Gen Z’s approach to philanthropy is reshaping how nonprofits, businesses, and individuals engage with giving. This generation isn’t interested in outdated, slow-moving charitable models. They expect transparency, digital accessibility, and real-time impact.

Organizations that want to engage with Gen Z donors must meet them where they are—on digital platforms, through compelling storytelling, and with immediate, visible results. This shift is already happening, with more companies integrating giving into their platforms and more nonprofits adapting their strategies to connect with younger donors.

The takeaway? Gen Z is redefining what it means to give. It’s not about the size of the donation—it’s about the impact. And their influence is proving that even small contributions, when amplified, can create meaningful change.

At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we continue to study and share insights on how each generation is reshaping industries, work, and society. Gen Z’s approach to giving is just one more way they are driving change, and organizations that understand their mindset will be best positioned to engage with the donors of the future.

Want more on Gen Z? Check out our latest bestselling book, Zconomy: How Gen Z Will Change the Future of Business—And What to Do About It by clicking here, or download one of our free State of Gen Z reports by clicking here.

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We are absolutely thrilled to announce CGK President Jason Dorsey’s recent feature in Reader’s Digest discussing a new generation—Generation Beta, who made their grand entrance starting this year! As a generational researchers and speakers, the blend of events, trends, and challenges that shape each generation fascinates all of us here at CGK. This preview into Gen Beta gives a sneak peek of what they might expect and experience. Check out the full Reader’s Digest article here.

So, who is Gen Beta? They are the next generation to follow Gen Alpha, and the first generation entirely born after the pandemic, growing up in a world that has been redefined by remote work, virtual education, and leaps in technology—including generative AI and immersive digital experiences that they will likely consider to be part of their everyday lives.

That’s right! For Gen Beta, AI will be more than just a tool or feature—it will be an integral, seamlessly integrated aspect of nearly everything they do. AI will likely act as their first teacher, assistant, and even a creative partner. Unlike older generations who view AI as something “new,” Gen Beta will likely see it as part of their expected experience, like electricity or the internet.

On the education and career fronts, Gen Beta may experience life very differently from previous generations.  Advancements like AI, gamified learning, and personalized educational paths could eventually suggest a shift away from traditional classrooms and towards learning that suits individual pacing, needs, and strengths. Professionally, they’ll navigate workplaces that might eventually include six or even seven different generations working side-by-side—not to mention helpful robots!

Social interactions for Gen Beta will also blend physical and digital realms more seamlessly than ever, thanks to tech like wearable devices and virtual reality. But these advances will also reshape their views on trust and authority, potentially challenging traditional notions of management and leadership.

Understanding Generation Beta isn’t just about looking forward—it’s about preparing for (and proactively anticipating!) the shifts they’ll bring. This generation will challenge norms, drive innovation, and force industries to rethink what’s possible. By seeking to study their experiences, values, and trends as they come of age, leaders can better prepare to support, collaborate, and connect with them as they shape the future.

At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we believe every generation is valuable and brings something unique to the table. Generation Beta is no exception. They’re entering the world at a pivotal time, and their impact will be profound. We’re excited to continue uncovering insights about this new generation and helping leaders adapt to the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Let’s embrace the future they represent and work together to create a world where every generation has the tools to thrive.

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Generation Beta is finally here—and they are going to have very different experiences and expectations from previous generations. The first members of Gen Beta were born on January 1, 2025, and already they are garnering tremendous attention, as they should. As a generational researcher and trend explorer, the emergence of a new generation is incredibly exciting for me! I’ve already had the opportunity to share some of my insights on NBC National News in a great feature article. You can read the full article here.

What you need to know about Gen Beta based on my research leading over 140 generational studies:

1. Gen Beta will come of age in a vastly different technology-driven world. They will NOT remember a time before AI. In fact, I predict they won’t even talk about AI as a
   “separate idea” from technology. Instead, AI will just be a part of everything they experience in the same way we no longer say to go on the “world wide web” or use “www dot” before a URL. AI will be a part of their lives from their birth. This is big!
2. Gen Beta will be the first generation to experience Gen X as the elder statesman in the workplace. That’s right. Gen Beta won’t remember Baby Boomers in office or as the largest holders of wealth. Instead, Gen X will be the wealthy generation along with the Millennials who benefited from the impending great wealth transfer.
3. Climate change will be an everyday challenge for Gen Beta. They will NOT remember the transition from internal combustion engines to hybrid and electric vehicles. In fact, they may never drive their own cars!!!! This is not Jetson’s thinking (for my Gen X readers) but rather the natural, continued evolution of technology.
4. Covid-19 will always have been history to Gen Beta. They will hear about it from their Gen Z and Millennial parents and learn about it in their highly individualized, immersive education but it won’t be a contemporary event of any kind. The best example I provide is talking to Gen Z about 9/11 in the U.S. or explaining the JFK assassination or Watergate to Millennials. You can watch the videos and read all about it, but it’s always been history.
5. Gen Beta will not remember a time before cryptocurrencies. It is likely that crypto will just be seen as another store of wealth in the same way many in Gen Z think of money today as purely digital. In fact, I gave my Gen Z daughter a $10 bill and she asked how she was supposed to get that into her phone! Gen Beta will never use a check and likely not use plastic credit cards. Their currency will be entirely digital.
6. Gen Beta will likely have deeply personalized learning that adapts to them and is likely going to be completely or mostly immersive in nature. They will finally get the benefit of VR and AR as it will likely integrate directly into other areas of their life including entertainment, communication, and community experiences.
7. My favorite: Gen Beta will think Gen Z is old! That’s right. They’ll think Gen Z is old and that Millennials act like grandparents because they will be!
8. There is so much more about Gen Beta that I can dive into—from the future of work to living beyond 2100 and more—but the key thing to keep in mind is that Gen Beta will eventually drive the trends that older generations adopt, such as technology usage and entertainment. It is going to be exciting!

For anyone new to my research at The Center for Geneational Kinetics, or my bestselling book on Gen Z, Zconomy: How Gen Z Will Change the Future of Business, please check out a video of my speaking here. At CGK, we view generations as clues and not a box, but the clues are research-based and incredibly valuable for giving leaders, communities, brands, and families a head start to drive faster connection, trust, and influence.

I believe the concept of a generation may go away in the traditional sense within the next 15+ years because the pace of change may increase so much that the predictability and consistency within a birth cohort might not extend over such long periods of time. As a generational researcher, speaker, and author this is a VERY exciting time to study Gen Beta, Gen Alpha, Gen Z, and every other generation as we now have six generations side by side!

For more information about my work, visit JasonDorsey.com or download our State of Gen Z annual study. If you’d like to request a media interview or speaking information, please reach out here.

Thank YOU for your interest in Gen Beta and unlocking the value of every generation!

The post Gen Beta is HERE! CGK President and head researcher Jason Dorsey Shares His Top Eight Predictions appeared first on The Center For Generational Kinetics.

Many readers may not know this, but CGK President Jason Dorsey slept on the floor for two years when he first started his speaking business. It’s one of his most enduring entrepreneurial memories. Jason had just written his first book and could only afford the garage apartment, not a bed or furniture. Sleeping on the floor taught him a lot, but one insight was unexpected: floors are important. We all start somewhere. This is why he was thrilled to share his story of starting out sleeping on a floor with over 1,000 flooring leaders who are driving innovation across the industry at the CCA Global Partners’ Global Connextion Conference!

To make an already great experience even better, this was his third time speaking for this great organization. Jason loves returning to organizations where he’s spoken before because it feels like coming home to him—and he says that the energy of being back is always palpable! Attendees stopped him throughout the hotel to share their excitement about his return and share a favorite joke or quote from one of his previous talks there. Jason loves that sense of connection.

In fact, CCA Global is all about connection. They are the driving force to help flooring entrepreneurs and leaders drive innovation, new technology, growth, and bridging from generations. Two of their innovations, in particular, align with our research and speaking:

1. Retail2.0 – CCA has reinvented the in-person customer experience and created a seamless physical and digital buying experience. This breakthrough has been transformative for their members and for the customers, who now represent five different generations. We love seeing such bold innovation in traditional businesses!

2. NEX40 – CCA’s team created a group specifically for the next generation of leaders in their members’ companies. This is a big deal because many of these flooring businesses are now in their second and even their third(!) generation of ownership. In addition, they employ four different generations of team members. NEX40 created an instant community for emerging generations to get to know each other, learn, grow, and have a voice in the industry’s future. Jason was even more honored to meet with the CCA NEX40 leaders and dive deep into their initiative and how it has grown from an idea to hundreds(!) of members.

Huge congrats to the entire team CCA Global leadership team and events team on organizing such a meaningful, inspiring event. We can see why you are influencing the industry!

The post CGK President Jason Dorsey Thrilled to Keynote for Over 1,000 Flooring Leaders appeared first on The Center For Generational Kinetics.

Generation Beta is finally here—and they are going to have very different experiences and expectations from previous generations. The first members of Gen Beta were born on January 1, 2025, and already they are garnering tremendous attention, as they should. As a generational researcher and trend explorer, the emergence of a new generation is incredibly exciting for me! I’ve already had the opportunity to share some of my insights on NBC National News in a great feature article. You can read the full article here.

What you need to know about Gen Beta based on my research leading over 140 generational studies:

1. Gen Beta will come of age in a vastly different technology-driven world. They will NOT remember a time before AI. In fact, I predict they won’t even talk about AI as a
   “separate idea” from technology. Instead, AI will just be a part of everything they experience in the same way we no longer say to go on the “world wide web” or use “www dot” before a URL. AI will be a part of their lives from their birth. This is big!
2. Gen Beta will be the first generation to experience Gen X as the elder statesman in the workplace. That’s right. Gen Beta won’t remember Baby Boomers in office or as the largest holders of wealth. Instead, Gen X will be the wealthy generation along with the Millennials who benefited from the impending great wealth transfer.
3. Climate change will be an everyday challenge for Gen Beta. They will NOT remember the transition from internal combustion engines to hybrid and electric vehicles. In fact, they may never drive their own cars!!!! This is not Jetson’s thinking (for my Gen X readers) but rather the natural, continued evolution of technology.
4. Covid-19 will always have been history to Gen Beta. They will hear about it from their Gen Z and Millennial parents and learn about it in their highly individualized, immersive education but it won’t be a contemporary event of any kind. The best example I provide is talking to Gen Z about 9/11 in the U.S. or explaining the JFK assassination or Watergate to Millennials. You can watch the videos and read all about it, but it’s always been history.
5. Gen Beta will not remember a time before cryptocurrencies. It is likely that crypto will just be seen as another store of wealth in the same way many in Gen Z think of money today as purely digital. In fact, I gave my Gen Z daughter a $10 bill and she asked how she was supposed to get that into her phone! Gen Beta will never use a check and likely not use plastic credit cards. Their currency will be entirely digital.
6. Gen Beta will likely have deeply personalized learning that adapts to them and is likely going to be completely or mostly immersive in nature. They will finally get the benefit of VR and AR as it will likely integrate directly into other areas of their life including entertainment, communication, and community experiences.
7. My favorite: Gen Beta will think Gen Z is old! That’s right. They’ll think Gen Z is old and that Millennials act like grandparents because they will be!
8. There is so much more about Gen Beta that I can dive into—from the future of work to living beyond 2100 and more—but the key thing to keep in mind is that Gen Beta will eventually drive the trends that older generations adopt, such as technology usage and entertainment. It is going to be exciting!

For anyone new to my research at The Center for Geneational Kinetics, or my bestselling book on Gen Z, Zconomy: How Gen Z Will Change the Future of Business, please check out a video of my speaking here. At CGK, we view generations as clues and not a box, but the clues are research-based and incredibly valuable for giving leaders, communities, brands, and families a head start to drive faster connection, trust, and influence.

I believe the concept of a generation may go away in the traditional sense within the next 15+ years because the pace of change may increase so much that the predictability and consistency within a birth cohort might not extend over such long periods of time. As a generational researcher, speaker, and author this is a VERY exciting time to study Gen Beta, Gen Alpha, Gen Z, and every other generation as we now have six generations side by side!

For more information about my work, visit JasonDorsey.com or download our State of Gen Z annual study. If you’d like to request a media interview or speaking information, please reach out here.

Thank YOU for your interest in Gen Beta and unlocking the value of every generation!

The post Gen Beta is HERE! CGK President and head researcher Jason Dorsey Shares His Top Eight Predictions appeared first on The Center For Generational Kinetics.

As 2024 comes to a close, we’re excited to share a special reflection from our President, Jason Dorsey. He’s selected 10 of his most memorable moments and unexpected highlights from this incredible year. These moments capture the impact of his work and the milestones we’ve reached together—as well as some fun personal memories—all written from Jason to you!

We hope you find them as inspiring and entertaining as we do! Read more about them below, and join us in celebrating a remarkable year. From all of us at CGK, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful New Year and an extraordinary 2025.

10. Speaking at Cowboys Stadium and Filming a Fun Behind-the-Scenes Video! 

One of my favorite moments of 2024 was keynoting a Leadership Symposium at AT&T Stadium. It was my second time speaking in this iconic venue, and standing where the Dallas Cowboys play felt like a full-circle moment, especially remembering how I once dreamed of attending a game as a kid.

The Leadership Symposium featured an inspiring group of leaders. Sharing my new generational discoveries was a highlight of the year. You can see my excitement by watching my behind-the-scenes video on LinkedIn or on Instagram!

9. Celebrating our VP of Sales’ 15th Anniversary!

It is with great excitement that we celebrated Emily’s 15th anniversary with CGK. Emily joined us at a pivotal time as our business was rapidly growing. She brought years of experience, speaking industry wisdom, and lots of great stories. A Baylor alum, Emily is very involved in her local community, an avid Mavericks fan, and an expert global traveler. The entire team at CGK is deeply grateful for Emily’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to serving clients. We look forward to many more years together! Read more and connect with Emily on LinkedIn.

8. Created My New Speaking Preview Video!

I’m constantly updating, changing, and evolving my speeches, so I was thrilled to release my brand-new speaking preview video. This video includes footage from events with over 100,000 attendees! I love how the video shows some of my favorite funny stories, unexpected discoveries, and unique high-energy approach to speaking. I would be honored if you watched the short video and shared it with your family or any friends who might be looking for a new take on bridging generations. You can watch the video here.

7. Filmed a New Video About Why Every Generation Is Important

If you’ve heard me speak or read one of my books, you know that one of my central beliefs (and key messages!) is that every generation is important. Every generation brings something valuable, meaningful, and actionable to the world. I filmed a new video where I share this in my own words and was thrilled to see how many people engaged with it on social and digital media. If you haven’t seen it, please check it out here. We are stronger when every generation is represented.

6. I Ran (and finished!) My First 10k Race!

A personal highlight for me, this year I discovered my love for running. I found running later than most runners, and I really enjoy both the physical challenge and mental spark it provides. This year I signed up for my first-ever race, the Capitol 10K in Austin. Running through our capitol city with 20,000+ runners was unforgettable. The best part: celebrating with Denise at the finish line!

5. Leading Custom Thought Leadership for Great Companies, Associations, Authors, and Speakers!

This year CGK led more than 25 custom research studies for innovative companies, industry-leading associations, and numerous bestselling authors and acclaimed speakers. Every study was different but each delivered on a key mission: uncovering new, never-before-seen insights and discoveries that made our client the source of truth, conversation, and solutions.

The custom studies ranged in focus from hidden workforce trends to unexpected sales insights as well as technology innovation, communication solutions, and tons of behavioral discoveries. I was honored to work with so many great CEOs, leadership committees, CMOs, and personal brands. I love this work and helping our clients uncover unexpected insights that advance conversations and solve urgent challenges!

4. My First 9-Minute National TV Interview!

I’m grateful to have been on over 200 television interviews, but this year was the first one I ever did for over nine minutes! That is a long, long time in the TV news world, but the hosts and I were having so much fun digging into Gen Z that the interview kept going and going! We covered many different aspects of Gen Z, from their views on spending and retirement to universal basic income and so much more. Please check out the interview here. It is packed with insights, debate, and a lot of energy! I’m excited for you to see it.

3. Denise Hikes the Grand Canyon!

Our fearless CEO and Co-Founder, Denise Villa, achieved one of her bucket list goals by hiking the Grand Canyon from the North Rim to the South Rim! That is a 24-mile hike with a 50 lb+ backpack, including three nights of sleeping and camping in the Grand Canyon. Denise trained for many months to be able to do the hike, and everyone at CGK is proud of her focus and determination.

2. Featured on CBS Discussing a Peculiar New Gen Z Trend

Early this year I was fired up to be featured on CBS National News to discuss a hot topic: Gen Z quitting their jobs—or being let go—and sharing it on TikTok. In the interview, I explained how this trend reflects Gen Z’s approach to transparency and self-expression. Social media is where Gen Z shares life’s highs and lows, from breakups to layoffs.

Understanding this behavior offers valuable insights into workplace dynamics. If you’re curious to learn more about Gen Z, check out our State of Gen Z research study by clicking here. Every generation brings unique value, and understanding each other helps us thrive together.

1 Rya’s Surprise 13th Birthday at a NYC Speaking Event – Thanks Hilton!

My favorite memory of 2024 was keynoting Hilton’s prestigious Hilton LIVE event at the Conrad Hilton Downtown in New York City. The event was incredible—filled with culinary experiences, new research, and an amazing audience of meeting and event leaders. I knew it was going to be an amazing event, so our whole family joined.

The best part? The Hilton team found out it was my daughter, Rya’s, 13th birthday and surprised her (and us!) by filling our hotel room with balloons, sweets, gifts, and a giant gold #13 display. She was thrilled, turning it into a Snapchat photo shoot (so Gen Z!). Seeing her excitement and Denise’s happiness made this a family memory I’ll never forget.

Thank You for an Amazing 2024. I’m Fired up about 2025! 

As you can see, I am grateful and inspired by the impact and adventures the team and I had in 2024. We reached tens of thousands of people, led over two dozen new research studies, and discovered many new insights that I shared in my speeches. What an adventure! After such a great year, we are thrilled to look back and see the learning and growth as well as look ahead to a fantastic 2025. I very much hope our paths cross in this coming year and that we find ways to collaborate together.

I wish you a very happy, healthy, and meaningful 2025!

The post CGK President Jason Dorsey’s Top 10 Favorite Moments of 2024 appeared first on The Center For Generational Kinetics.