Episodes

  • E29: The AI Generation: Insights on Tech, Love & Personal Growth
    Jul 16 2025

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    In this episode, we hang out with Swetha, a 22-year-old entrepreneur fresh out of UT Austin who's shaking things up in the world of AI and student empowerment. She's all about getting students AI-powered and ready to take on the future. But it's not just tech talk - Swetha gets real about the ups and downs of job hunting, modern dating, and figuring out your mental health in your twenties.

    From building websites with AI to navigating the wild world of situationships, Shweta's experiences are a window into Gen Z life. She's not afraid to call out the BS in traditional job applications or share her journey with therapy and attachment styles. And let's be real, her take on "decentering men" in women's lives is both refreshing and thought-provoking.

    Whether you're curious about how AI is changing the game, struggling with dating app fatigue, or just trying to get your life together, Swetha's blend of tech savvy and emotional intelligence hits different. She's got this way of turning life's challenges into experiments that'll make you want to level up your own game.

    This conversation is a mix of practical wisdom and raw honesty that'll resonate whether you're a student, a young professional, or just someone trying to make sense of this crazy world. It's like grabbing coffee with that friend who's always got the best advice - but with a side of AI revolution.

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    38 mins
  • E28: From LSU to Love Island: A Gen Z Perspective on Life & Love
    Jul 9 2025

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    In this episode, we catch up with Joshua Jones, a marketing student at LSU who's back to spill the tea on his college life and Gen Z experiences. Joshua's got some exciting news - he's part of my upcoming documentary that's all about giving young voices a platform. He's pumped to show how his generation is tackling everything from social media drama to COVID curveballs.

    Joshua's not just sitting around waiting for opportunities to knock. He's out there hustling, landing campus jobs before he even started classes. Talk about initiative! He's also killing it with his internship at Kids Orchestra, where he's snapping pics and managing social media for this awesome nonprofit that's all about unleashing kids' creativity.

    But it's not all work and no play. Joshua gets real about dating in the Gen Z world. He's not buying into the whole "swipe right" culture. Instead, he's all about making genuine connections and keeping things low-key until it's time to go public. And when it comes to shows like Love Island? Joshua's not letting that TV drama dictate his love life. He's keeping it 100, focusing on shared interests and real conversations.

    Throughout the chat, Joshua drops some serious wisdom bombs. He's all about being true to yourself, not following the crowd, and leading with purpose. Whether you're trying to navigate college life, land that dream internship, or figure out this whole dating thing, Joshua's got some fresh takes that'll have you nodding along. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to get the real scoop on what it's like to be young and ambitious in 2025.

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    41 mins
  • E27: Breaking Labels: How One Gen Z Survivor Rewrote Her Story
    Jul 2 2025

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    In this inspiring episode, we connect with Vanessa Rosalie, a 22-year-old former foster youth who's turning her challenging past into a powerful force for change. Vanessa pulls back the curtain on her 13-year journey through the foster care system, sharing the raw realities of living in 12 different homes and attending 5 schools. But this isn't a story of defeat - it's a testament to resilience and the transformative power of education.

    Vanessa tackles head-on the stereotypes that often box in foster youth, revealing how these labels can become self-fulfilling prophecies. She credits her success to a foundation of normalcy before entering care and a deep-rooted faith that kept her anchored through the chaos. Her insights on trauma's physical toll - including her own struggle with obesity - offer a fresh perspective on the long-lasting effects of childhood instability.

    But it's not all heavy. Vanessa's warmth and humor shine through as she dishes on the power of simply being present for traumatized youth, setting boundaries with family (even when it's tough), and why working on yourself is a non-negotiable for a good life. From her current work creating safe spaces for kindergarteners to her acceptance into UCLA's law program, Vanessa proves that your past doesn't define your future.

    Whether you've experienced foster care, know someone who has, or just want to be a better ally, Vanessa's story will challenge your assumptions and leave you inspired to create positive change. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the real experiences of Gen Z foster youth and the incredible potential they hold.

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    32 mins
  • E26: Beyond the Feed: Creating Community Through Mental Health Advocacy
    Jun 25 2025

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    In this illuminating episode, we chat with Lachelle, a 20-year-old marketing intern at the DMAX Foundation who's making waves in mental health awareness. She spills the tea on what it's really like to balance college life, social media, and emotional well-being in today's always-on world.

    Lachelle gets real about the DMAX Foundation's mission to create safe spaces for young adults to talk openly about mental health. She shares her own journey of finding community and support through DMAX events at Cheney University, from chill table talks to stress-busting pet therapy sessions.

    But it's not all serious stuff. Lachelle dishes on the love-hate relationship Gen Z has with social media. She admits to the anxiety and FOMO that comes with constant scrolling, but also highlights how platforms like TikTok and Instagram are opening doors for creatives and entrepreneurs.

    We dive into the offline world too, with Lachelle revealing how painting and journaling have become her go-to methods for finding calm in the chaos. It's a refreshing reminder that sometimes the best self-care doesn't require Wi-Fi.

    As a rising star in communications, Lachelle shares her dreams of becoming a social media manager, painting a picture of a future where digital platforms are used for good. Her enthusiasm for creating content that connects and inspires is seriously contagious.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to figure out how to adult in the digital age. Whether you're struggling with mental health, questioning your relationship with social media, or just looking for some real talk about life as a young adult, Lachelle's mix of honesty, hope, and practical wisdom hits different. Get ready for a conversation that's as refreshing as it is real.

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    36 mins
  • E25: Gen Z vs. Human Trafficking: One Teen's Global Fight
    Jun 18 2025

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    In this eye-opening episode, we chat with Josh Eckstein, an 18-year-old high school senior who's making waves in the fight against human trafficking. Josh breaks down what trafficking really looks like today, busting myths and showing us it's not always the dramatic scenarios we see on TV. He's got some serious insights on how AI could be a game-changer in this field - for better or worse.

    But what really stands out is Josh's take on survivor-led initiatives. He's all about putting those with lived experiences front and center, arguing that their voices are crucial in shaping effective solutions. It's refreshing to hear a young activist so committed to amplifying the right voices.

    Josh doesn't shy away from the tough stuff either. He digs into the gaps in current anti-trafficking efforts, from the need for better public info to the lack of a global database connecting local actors. And he's not just talking - he's doing something about it with his own organization, No Trafficking Today.

    Whether you're curious about the realities of modern slavery, inspired by young changemakers, or just want to understand a complex global issue, Josh's story is a wake-up call. He challenges us to think differently about trafficking and shows that even at 18, you can make a real impact. This conversation is a mix of hard truths and hopeful action - exactly what we need to tackle such a heavy topic.

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    31 mins
  • E24: From Burden to Pride: A Young Caregiver's Path to Empowerment & Advocacy
    Jun 11 2025

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    In this thought-provoking episode, we chat with Mana, a 26-year-old from Japan who's shaking things up in the world of caregiving. She opens up about her journey taking care of her autistic brother and the real struggles faced by families with special needs kids in Japan. But Mana's not just talking about problems - she's out there making waves, working as a peer mentor and dreaming big about a future where families don't have to shoulder the whole caregiving burden alone.

    Mana gets real about the tough stuff, like family violence and the pressure cooker of being a young caregiver. She's not afraid to call out the need for better communication in families and the importance of creating safe spaces where caregivers can just be honest about their struggles. It's refreshing to hear someone so young tackle these heavy topics with such clarity and purpose.

    But it's not all serious business. Mana's also dishing on her new gig as an English consultant, helping Japanese professionals level up their language skills.

    Whether you're dealing with caregiving challenges, navigating tricky family dynamics, or just trying to figure out life in your twenties, Mana's mix of personal stories and practical wisdom hits differently. This episode is a wake-up call wrapped in a heartfelt conversation, reminding us that sometimes the toughest experiences can lead to the most powerful voices for change.

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    24 mins
  • E23: Navigating Gen Z Marketing: Mahika's Insights on Business & Social Media
    Jun 4 2025

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    In this engaging episode, we sit down with 24 yr old Mahika, a dynamic young entrepreneur and the founder of Muses, a Gen Z marketing consulting studio. Mahika shares her journey of launching Muses while studying at UC Berkeley, inspired by her peers who were "nano, hyperlocal creators and social media geniuses." She saw a unique opportunity to connect brands with college ecosystems, focusing on making a positive impact rather than just pushing products. Mahika candidly discusses the challenges of managing a team as a first-time business owner, highlighting the steep learning curve of structuring hierarchy and approvals without prior corporate experience. Currently on a business trip in Singapore, she explores global expansion opportunities for Muses, working with brands in food, fashion, and cosmetics. The conversation shifts to the Gen Z approach to learning and entrepreneurship, where Mahika emphasizes the democratization of education through platforms like YouTube and Google. This access empowers Gen Z to start businesses without traditional pathways, fostering equitable opportunities. Mahika also delves into evolving social media content strategies, advocating for authentic, spontaneous posts over polished, scripted content. She shares her transition to more casual videos on TikTok and LinkedIn, which have led to better engagement. When it comes to marketing to Gen Z, Mahika stresses the importance of selling the feeling or value a product provides, rather than the product itself. She encourages older generations to embrace new marketing trends, promoting a mindset of experimentation and learning. This episode offers valuable insights into the world of Gen Z marketing, entrepreneurship, and the ever-changing digital landscape, providing both inspiration and practical advice for listeners of all ages.

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    42 mins
  • E22: A Young Innovator's Journey: From Lahore to Global Impact
    May 28 2025

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    In this episode, we engage with Rayan, an 18-year-old entrepreneur from Lahore, Pakistan, who shares his journey through the vibrant world of startups and innovation. Ryan opens up about his educational path, highlighting the challenges he overcame to earn over 150 certifications, showcasing his dedication to self-improvement. He paints a picture of Pakistan's burgeoning startup culture, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, and introduces his fintech startup, REyA, which aims to revolutionize cashless payments with cutting-edge technology like palm scans and facial recognition.

    Ryan doesn't shy away from critiquing the impact of social media on today's youth, urging listeners to look beyond the often deceptive facades presented online. He emphasizes the importance of pursuing excellence over superficial success. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in modern life, with Ryan viewing it as a tool to enhance productivity rather than a threat to jobs.

    As the discussion shifts to global issues, Ryan expresses his concerns about climate change and the need for global equality, advocating for equal opportunities for children worldwide. His story is a testament to resilience and ambition, offering inspiration and practical wisdom for young entrepreneurs and dreamers alike.

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    41 mins