Episode 3: Self-Expression

Despite being the most connected generation online, many young people feel more isolated than ever. In this episode of "Gen Z on Gen Z," AJ and Lilia dive into the pressing issue of the loneliness epidemic and how Gen Z and forward-thinking brands are stepping up to fight this crisis. Strategies brands are using to foster real connections.How social platforms are evolving to meet Gen Z's emotional needs.How brands can position themselves not just as products or services, but as avenues for meaningful human interaction.

Gen Z is becoming increasingly obsessed with traveling – but what’s encouraging that hunger? Adventure, peace and quiet, and mysterious places. In this episode, AJ and Lilia dissect Pinterest’s “Summer 2024 Travel Report” and how all brands– travel-oriented or not– can participate in those three key trends. Listen in to learn how you can get in on the fun!

Pride Month may be over, but inclusivity is forever. In the latest episode of "Gen Z on Gen Z," AJ and Lilia dive into the significance of Pride, what marketers have been getting wrong about it, and how embracing Pride as a year-round movement can positively impact your brand.Listen in to learn:The importance of recognizing, honoring, and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community year-roundHow queer culture influences mainstream trends and why marketers should be awareHow brands can support Gen Z's ongoing journey of self-discovery

In this episode, we brought in Gen Z influencer, Erin Confortini, to discuss Gen Z’s relationship with money and how she uses her platform to help young people understand finance. Erin and hosts discuss the unique financial challenges and opportunities that Gen Z is facing, the lore of treat culture, how they’re affecting their parents’ retirement funds, and more.

As one of the most tech savvy generations, Gen Z is looking to disconnect from their screens and reconnect with what brought them joy in their childhood. Our hosts join Hasbro’s Sarah Madey, Sr. Director of Global Brand Strategy, and Olivia DeLorenzo, Narrative Designer, to explore how nostalgia plays into Gen Z’s modern life. From board games to fashion to music, learn what your brand can do to take part in nostalgia marketing.

Gen Z values self-expression like no other and seeks it in every facet of their lives. In this episode, Rob Mayhew, colleague and social media sensation, joins hosts AJ and Lilia to dissect how this generation expresses themselves through products, content, and their unique communities and aesthetics — and the why behind it all.

Gen Z has made shopping through social media an addictive phenomenon. Gen Z Strategists and hosts, AJ and Lilia, break down the generation’s relationship with social shopping, including topics like the power of discoverability, convenience, creator commission benefits, and how your brand can tap into the fun. Contents:04:56 - Discoverability15:24 - Convenience23:14 - Commission

Gen Z is in a situationship with their bank accounts, and marketers should take note. Hosts AJ and Lilia unpack why Gen Z is chipping away at their parent’s retirement funds (sorry mom), the rise and fall of the gig economy, why Gen Z still values treat culture, and how your brand can show up for the younger gen amidst their financial fatigue.Contents:03:14 - Why Gen Z is chipping away at their parent’s retirement funds11:10 - Rise and fall of the gig economy20:44 - Emotional spending and treat culture

Introducing Gen Z on Gen Z, the podcast that breaks down the generation so you don't have to. Gen Z strategists AJ Pulvirenti and Lilia Souri pull back the curtain on Gen Z’s quirks, consumer behavior, and unfiltered opinions that impact how they relate to and identify with their favorite brands. Subscribe for alerts when each episode drops.