The stock market is at all-time highs.

Jobs are abundant.

The Fed tamed inflation.

So why are people so unhappy?

Especially Gen Z, who have taken to TikTok to express their angst.

This week on The Examined Life Podcast, we’re joined by journalist, financial pundit and author Kyla Scanlon.

We ask the question:

Are young people OK?

🎧 Or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

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My top 3 takeaways

Social media’s empty calories

Likes on Twitter (does anybody call it X?). New followers on Instagram. A TikTok that went viral. We earn daily validation online. But it feels so hollow because, at our core, we seek real connection.

→ Watch the clip

Monetization drives our social feeds

It’s not just you. From tradwives (I can’t believe this is a thing) to hustle bros, much of what we all see online is extreme. The algorithm rewards the ridiculous.

→ Watch the clip

We lack “economic empathy”

It’s easy to criticize a NIMBY. After all, they contribute to the housing shortage. It’s harder but more productive to understand their perspective. It’s the only way to find a solution.

→ Watch the clip

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My favorite quote: How do you merge your passions with helping others?

How can you do something that is in the service of other people? Because I think that's ultimately where we get the most fulfillment. How can you tie together your passions and then tie that together with helping people?

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Why this episode matters to me

I’m a young Gen X’er (who behaves like a Millennial).

My two careers have led me to cross paths with all generations — from Boomers down to Gen there.

While I have my occasional “kids these days” moments, I really don’t buy into the generational stereotypes.

Instead, I’m just so in awe of young people — their energy, passion and perspectives.

Kyla is one of the most thoughtful voices of Gen Z. Her perspective gave me a better appreciation for her generation.

And they’re pretty rad.

If you want to dig deeper

I binged Kyla’s videos to prepare for this episode. Her essay on the Vibecession put her on the “mainstream map,” and I dug these videos on individualism and consumerism.