BONUS! Episode 4: "It's Not That Deep" - How Three Words Are Undermining Gen Z

BONUS! Episode 4: "It's Not That Deep" - How Three Words Are Undermining Gen Z

Welcome to your bonus episode recap! Here's everything you need to remember and implement from our deep dive into respectful leadership. PLUS a real-life story about how "it's not that deep" is causing some problems.

The Problem We're Facing

"It's not that deep" has become our generation's go-to shield against accountability. What started as a healthy reminder not to overthink everything has morphed into a permission slip to abandon basic respect for others. When we use this phrase, we're essentially telling someone their feelings, boundaries, and experiences don't matter.

The Reality Check

Sometimes it actually IS that deep. Our words carry weight, our actions ripple out in unexpected ways, and the person standing in front of us might be telling us something crucial about our impact. Everything we need to know about respect, we learned in kindergarten—but somehow we've forgotten those simple truths.

The Leadership Connection

Real authenticity includes being genuinely respectful, genuinely kind, and genuinely willing to grow when we learn we've caused harm. The most authentic version of yourself should be someone who cares about their impact on others. If your "true self" regularly hurts people and brushes off their concerns, it's time to dig deeper into who you want to be.

Your Three Action Steps

1. Practice Accountability Over Defensiveness

Instead of: "It's not that deep" or becoming defensive Try this: Listen with genuine curiosity, acknowledge their experience, and take responsibility for your impact even if it wasn't your intention.

2. Lead by Serving Others First

Before responding, ask yourself:

• "How can I lift this person up?"
• "What would make this better for everyone involved?" This servant leadership approach shifts your focus from protecting yourself to creating an environment where others can thrive.

3. Choose Growth Over Comfort

When faced with uncomfortable feedback:

• Sit with the discomfort instead of dismissing it
• Use these moments as opportunities to dig deeper into who you want to be
• Remember that willingness to be vulnerable demonstrates the highest form of self-respect

The Mindset Shift

From: "It's not that deep" To: "What is this person really telling me? What would it look like to respond with curiosity instead of dismissal?"

Your Challenge This Week

Catch yourself before you say "it's not that deep" (or think it). Instead, pause and ask: What would it mean to take responsibility for my impact, even if it wasn't my intention?

Let's rise together by choosing real connection, real accountability, and real respect.

Support the show

Thanks for listening! If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.

For more leadership resources for storytellers and to dive deeper into authentic, heart-centered leadership, visit nanimedia.com and follow us @thenanimedia. Connect with host, Danielle Meyer, @daniellekmey.

Remember – your highest potential isn't a destination, it's an evolution. Take care of your heart, trust your inner wisdom, and keep rising.

Until next time, thank you for understanding.