Learn how the Teal model empowers young professionals and creates sustainable physiotherapy practices through purpose-driven leadership
Gen Z and the Changing Workforce
Gen Z (born 1996-2010) now represents a growing portion of the healthcare workforce.
As of 2023, half of all physiotherapists are under 35, and by 2030, just about half of the profession will be from Gen Z.
With high turnover rates—where 90% of surveyed new grads plan to leave their first employer within three years—clinics must re-think how they engage and retain staff.
Challenges with Traditional Structures
Rigid, hierarchical models no longer work with younger generations.
Gen Z professionals value belonging, autonomy, and career fulfilment, but they also demand flexible leadership and inclusive workplaces.
Clinics operating with old-school frameworks often face high turnover and burnout due to misaligned expectations.
The Teal Model: A New Framework for Clinics
The Teal organisational model, introduced by Frederic Laloux, offers a way forward. The model prioritises:
- Self Management:
Therapists manage their own responsibilities with minimal oversight. - Wholeness:
Staff are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work, fostering creativity and engagement. - Evolutionary Purpose:
Goals are fluid and aligned with both personal growth and business impact.
Aligning with Gen Z Values
Gen Z thrives in environments that promote self-expression and purpose-driven leadership.
Shane highlights how inclusion, personal expression, and community involvement are critical to this generation.
Millennials embraced individualism, but Gen Z has taken it to the next level—prioritising authenticity and social impact over traditional career paths.
Case Study: The Impact of Teal Leadership
Shane reflects on his experience with Life Ready, a values-driven physiotherapy organisation, and the shift that occurred after the business was acquired by a larger corporate group.
Including the transition from a decentralised, green-style leadership model to a more centralised operation within a compliance-focused structure.
This experience inspired Shane to develop Culture of One, a business model based on Teal principles.
Conclusion: The Future of Physiotherapy Practices
To thrive in the future, clinics must integrate Gen Z into purpose-driven environments.
The key lies in adopting Teal leadership principles—promoting self-management, wholeness, and a constantly evolving purpose.
With Gen Z therapists entering the workforce in growing numbers, physiotherapy practices need to evolve beyond profit-driven KPIs and embrace impact-driven leadership models.
This shift will create sustainable, inclusive clinics that attract and retain young professionals.
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