In today’s workplace, Gen-Z is talking about authenticity, but where’s the line between being real and being unprofessional? In this episode of our Professionalism Series, David, Philip, Ryan, and Gen Z John break down one of the biggest questions young professionals ask:

“How do I show up as my true self at work without hurting my reputation?”

In this episode, we unpack:
• What authenticity really means (hint: it’s not “saying whatever you feel”)
• How Gen Z can bring their whole selves to work without crossing professional boundaries
• Why honesty, self-awareness, and integrity are the pillars of workplace authenticity
• The need for "reading the room" and matching the culture without losing who you are
• Where authenticity becomes harmful (oversharing, venting, “keeping it real”)
• How your behavior shapes your personal brand and reputation
• The difference between “being real” and being responsible

If you’re trying to build credibility, earn respect, and show up confidently as a young professional, this episode is your starting point for doing it the right way.

⏱️ Timestamps (Accurate for a 15-Minute Episode)
00:00 — Welcome back + What this episode is about
00:38 — Why authenticity matters at work
02:00 — Gen Z and “bringing your whole self to work”
03:05 — What authenticity is vs. what it is not
05:10 — When “keeping it real” goes wrong
06:40 — How to read the room (critical soft skill)
08:15 — Honesty, self-awareness, integrity: the roots of authenticity
09:45 — Avoiding oversharing and emotional dumping at work
11:10 — Authenticity vs. responsibility
12:35 — How authenticity shapes your reputation
14:05 — Final takeaway

🎧 Watch or listen on:
▶️ YouTube
🎧 Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts