HELPING EMPLOYERS SEE
Gen Z isn’t the problem, they’re the opportunity
Hello Hello! I’m Andrea, but friends call me Dr. Dre. Except, when I’m holding the mic, I ain’t dropping raps (you don’t want to hear me sing or rap), just practical strategies to equip Gen Z to deliver and employers to expect more.
About Dr. Andrea Mata
Speaker ● Clinical Psychologist ● Straight Shooter
The daughter of a Mexican immigrant, I grew up in a gang-infested neighborhood on Chicago's south side. Despite the odds, I credit my success to my strong, loving, and sarcastic family.
I graduated summa cum laude from Valparaiso University with a degree in Psychology and minors in Criminology and Urban Studies. I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Child Psychology at Kent State University and interned at Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska.
After nine years as a college professor, I joined the Anxiety Treatment Center of Greater Toledo and founded BrightSpot Families to pursue my mission of fortifying families.
When I’m not speaking or supporting my clients, you can find me spending time with my family (husband of 14 years, twin 8 year olds, and a 6 year old, and my parents) or sneaking some “me time” by reading, biking, running, or swimming. That is, if my kids haven’t tracked me down first!
my non-Negotiables
#1. High Expectations with High Support
I don’t believe in coddling—or cruelty. I champion a leadership style (and parenting approach) that demands more from people while backing them up every step of the way.
“Accountability without support leads to anxiety. Support without accountability leads to entitlement. I teach the sweet spot in between.”
#2. tell the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable
I say what others won’t—with boldness, humor, and connection. I don’t sugarcoat mental health, parenting, or performance. If it needs to be said, I’ll say it—because change doesn’t happen through silence.
"Tell people what you want them to do concisely and directly. The sandwich technique does more harm than good."
#3. equip the next generation to deliver
Whether I’m speaking to parents, educators, or corporate leaders, my mission is the same: prepare Gen Z for the real world. I’m not here to complain about them—I’m here to coach the people who shape them.
“We don’t need to lower the bar for Gen Z—we need to give them the tools to reach it.”
As featured on the
shrm tomorrowist podcast
Mental health challenges are taking a toll on the workforce—particularly among young employees. On this episode, I dive into the growing youth mental health crisis, sharing insights on how corporate America can adapt to help the next generation succeed at work. From building resilience to teaching life skills, I share practical steps leaders can take to balance empathy with productivity—and ensure both employees and businesses thrive.
On YouTube
From Gen Z’s mental health struggles to parenting without boundaries, my YouTube channel has everything you need to learn to help the younger generations thrive. Follow along—new episodes drop every week.
