S 2 E. 25 - Ageless Ambition: Redefining Work, Purpose & Mentorship with Deborah Heiser

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In this compelling episode, we dive into the realities—and opportunities—of aging in today’s workforce. HR expert Deborah Heiser, Applied Developmental Psychologist and CEO/Founder of The Mentor Project, shares insights on why thriving in later career stages isn’t just vital—it’s purposeful.

🔍 Topics We Covered

1. Aging, Work & Purpose
   Deborah highlights how finding purpose in work gives older employees motivation and meaning—strengthening mental well-being and productivity.
2. Generational Perspectives
   We unpack stereotypes and real generational dynamics, and why each generation brings unique strengths. Age diversity fosters innovation!
3. Shifting Toward Entrepreneurial Ventures
   More professionals are launching second-act businesses in their 50s and 60s. Deborah outlines how these ventures let people leverage lifelong expertise.
4. The Role of Mentorship
   Age brings leadership—and with it, an opportunity to mentor. Deborah explains how mentoring is a two-way street, benefiting both mentor and mentee.
5. Creating a Mentorship Legacy
   Mentorship isn’t just about today’s impact; it’s a legacy-building tool. Deborah shares how leaving a legacy goes beyond financial inheritance—it’s about wisdom and cultural continuity.
6. Finding Mentorship Opportunities
   Whether formal programs or informal chats over coffee, Deborah provides practical tips for older professionals to become mentors—and for organizations to tap into this goldmine.

💬 Featured Quote from Deborah

“We all know the benefits of having a mentor, but no one has addressed the profound benefits mentoring has on the mentor.” 

📊 Why This Matters: Age-Based Workforce Trends

• Nearly 47% of employees over 40 report facing age discrimination—despite the protections offered by the ADEA. 
• The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) prohibits discrimination against workers aged 40 and older in hiring, promotions, pay, and other employment-related matters. 
• The portion of workers aged 50+ surpassed one-third of the U.S. workforce in 2020, and by 2030, 25% of workers will be 55 or older. 

📬 Connect with Deborah Heiser

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-heiser-phd-3963693/
• Website & The Mentor Project: https://deborahheiser.com/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebbieHeiser

✅ For HR Leaders & Managers

• Audit your mentorship programs—make room for senior mentors and reverse mentors.
• Spotlight entrepreneurship: offer internal resources or partnerships.
• Address ageism: reinforce ADEA protections and throw shade at stereotypes. Awareness goes a long way.

🔗 References & Further Reading

• ADEA overview and enforcement insights: https://www.eeoc.gov/age-discrimination
• Workforce aging stats: Built In, EEOC data, U.S.–aging trends
  https://builtin.com/diversity-inclusion/ageism-in-the-workplace
• Mentor-focused commentary: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-mentor-project/

Thanks for tuning into Dear HR Diary!
Let’s ditch age bias and embrace the power of purpose, experience, and mentorship. 🎙️

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