Hollywood executives think Gen Z isn't watching TV because of TikTok. They're wrong. In this episode, we break down the "Crisis of Authenticity" and why this is actually the Golden Age for indie filmmakers.

Episode 23:

We read a piece in The Ankler by Whitney Friedlander that’s causing panic in boardrooms: "Gen Z Is Huge; Their TV Shows Are Tiny." The industry blames attention spans, but we call it the Crisis of Authenticity. We break down why the "Hollywood Formula"—polished, committee-approved content—is failing, while messy, specific, and "niche" shows are the only things cutting through.

If you are a filmmaker, writer, or creator feeling discouraged by the industry—this episode is your proof that you don't need their permission anymore.

IN THIS EPISODE:

The Crisis: An analysis of why the "Hollywood Formula" is broken and why Gen Z is rejecting manufactured content.

The Insight: Why creative risk is the new currency and why "safe" bets are actually the most dangerous move studios can make.

The Solution: How indie creators are bypassing the system by building their own creative ecosystems (and why you should too).

FUEL YOUR CREATIVITY: Fuel your independence with Brain Juice Coffee: www.BrainJuiceCoffee.com

PROJECT UPDATE: We are currently organizing the table read for The Actress! Follow the journey as we move from script to production.

Chapters:

00:00 – The "Panic" in Hollywood

01:21 – Why Gen Z watches "Friends" but hates new sitcoms

06:22 – The Crisis of Authenticity (and "I Love LA")

11:16 – The Cancellation Problem: Why shows aren't given time to grow

14:50 – Are Executives using AI to test scripts?

17:27 – Building Your Own Ecosystem (Brain Juice Coffee)

19:01 – Deep Dive: How "Atlanta" broke every rule

23:23 – The Golden Age for Indie Filmmakers

28:07 – Living in Your Skin: The Rachel Sennott & Issa Rae model

30:20 – Conclusion: Take the Risk

Watch on Youtube:
https://youtu.be/XJCzVLS3ECg

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