Episode 72: What Gen Z Really Wants at Work with Sarah Hansen of Fourteen Foods

Sarah Hansen, VP of People at Fourteen Foods—the largest Dairy Queen franchisee in the U.S.—joins AJ on The Hourly Podcast to unpack what’s really driving today’s hourly workforce, especially Gen Z.

Drawing from her experience leading HR across 250+ locations, Sarah shares candid insights on how expectations are shifting—from pay and flexibility to recognition and growth. She breaks down what frontline employees value most today, and what leaders need to do differently to attract, support, and retain them.

Whether you manage frontline teams or want a clearer view into the future of hourly work, this conversation offers a practical, inside look at what’s changing—and what’s working.

Topics include:

• Generational differences in work styles
• Why Gen Z prioritizes pay over traditional perks
• Flexibility, scheduling, and speed in hiring
• Earned wage access and real-time recognition
• Creating clear development and promotion pathways
• Building workplaces where hourly employees want to stay