At The Center for Generational Kinetics, we have three incredible certified speakers, in addition to our Co-Founder Jason Dorsey. This is the first in our three-part series in which you will get to know each of our certified speakers and see what they think about generations!
First up: Matt Beaudreau
- Which generation are you in based on your birth year—and your state of mind?
I am a Millennial by birth year, but just a couple of years outside of Gen X. In my state of mind, though, I lean towards Gen Z. I’m a big kid at heart and I see myself taking on a lot of traits of Gen Z and younger Millennials. I think the reason for this is that I’ve worked in education for many years and have worked closely with Generation Z—plus I have Gen Z kids!
In fact, when I took the Generational Power Index assessment, my results were almost equal across Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z, with Gen Z in the slight majority.
- If there’s one thing you want people to know about generations, what is it?
One of the most important things to know, and one that I believe strongly in, is that generations are not boxes, but powerful clues. It’s important to understand the value of those clues. One of the keys to my personal success is that I’ve been naturally able to figure out people’s generational clues. If you can hone in on these clues, you can make relationships stronger, create better and more effective interactions as a manager, leader, sales professional, and in your personal life.
- What is the biggest misconception that you think audiences have about generations?
By far, the biggest misconception is that each generation thinks they are “doing everything right,” and that everyone else has it all wrong. This is a natural perception for people to have—but it’s not accurate. People often think that their own generation did things the right way, whether that’s how they interacted with money, technology, or at work. People too often tend to believe that the generations that came before them are antiquated and the generations that came after them are out of control and ruining everything.
They aren’t right or wrong in their thinking, just coming at life with a different perspective. The key is to help people acknowledge these generational gaps and show them how to recognize power—and good—in every generation.
- Who is your biggest influence or role model?
I’ve been lucky to have so many role models in my professional life. I really look up to my friend, Jon Arjil. Jon is 12 years old, going on 60. He has the purest heart of possibly anyone I’ve ever met, and has an immediate connection with anyone and everyone. He can connect on a personal level with a doorknob; he’s that electric and genuine.
As a speaker, Jason Dorsey has become a huge mentor to me. He is my biggest supporter and constant motivator.
It’s interesting that even though I’m from California, my two professional role models are based in Austin!
- What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I used to be a competitive martial artist. I was a kick boxer and did mixed martial arts! These experiences taught me discipline, respect, and the value of diversity of thought.
Interested in learning more about inviting Matt to speak at one of your upcoming events? Email info@genhq.com!.
