Rated Gen Z
Rated Gen Z is an unscripted podcast that explores the unfiltered experiences of 18-24-year-olds. Each episode dives into their dreams, struggles, and perspectives, offering a raw confessional rather than a polished interview. The show aims to give voice to a generation often talked about but rarely listened to.
Episodes
From a Town of 4,000 to UC Berkeley: Kiki Whitman on the Rural Opportunity Gap & Building OPAL
Send us Fan MailKiki Whitman grew up in a rural town of 4,000 people near Bakersfield, California — where the median household income is $26,000 a year and most kids have never heard the words "dual enrollment." She made it to UC Berkeley. And now she's building something to make sure more kids like her get the same shot.In this episode Kiki shares the story behind OPAL, a student-l
Finance, Film & Finding Yourself: Tavian on Graduation, Growth & Who You're Becoming!
Send us Fan MailFreshman year at UCLA, Tavian spent his weekends alone in the dorms. By senior year, 58 people showed up to celebrate his birthday.What happened in between is the story of this episode.Tavian just graduated from UCLA and is heading to JPMorgan Chase as a global finance and business management analyst — but he's also a filmmaker with two short films, a former Daily Bruin journa
Making People Smile: How Bryce Found His Calling in Theater
Send us Fan MailBryce Foyabo was in a middle school play when it happened — he made the audience smile, and he felt it. That was the moment he knew.Now 23 and studying theater arts at Cal State Dominguez Hills, Bryce is doing the work to turn that feeling into a career. In this episode we talk about what it really looks like to pursue acting as a Gen Z artist — the demanding classes, performing in
From Loss to Leadership: Danielle on Suicide Prevention & Mental Health at UCLA
Send us Fan MailDanielle just graduated from UCLA's nursing program, with her sights set on becoming a psychiatric nurse. But her path into mental health work became deeply personal last year, when she lost her best friend to suicide — someone who was deeply loved across the entire UCLA campus.Instead of letting that loss go unspoken, Danielle helped organize a mental health event in his hono
I Used to Be That Guy: How Sean Escaped Red Pill & Toxic Alpha Male Culture
Send us Fan MailSean is back. You might remember him from last year's episode.Sean has been vocal about red pill culture and toxic masculinity, and in this episode he gets completely honest about it. He was that guy. The one who bought into the alpha male mentality, who had damaging views about women, and who chased money and status thinking it would make him happy. It didn't.Now he&apos
Art, Apps & Authenticity: Gen Z’s Big Canvas
Send us Fan MailThis week on Rated Gen Z, Raquel sits down with 18-year-old changemaker Siri, founder of SmilesThruArt and recent creator of a web app bringing art therapy to children’s hospitals. Together, they dig into the real impact of art on mental health, the highs and lows of social media, and why Gen Z is rewriting the rules on connection, college life, and creativity. Tune in for raw stor
Exploring Spirituality, Science, & Self-Growth: A Conversation with Najuka, Life Coach & Healer
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Rated Gen Z, Raquel reconnects with Najuka, a 23-year-old healer, life coach, poet, and aspiring novelist based in Mumbai. They discuss Najuka’s unique journey from data analyst to life coach, her experiences helping clients address root issues through life coaching, akashic readings, and numerology, and the increasing openness among Gen Z in India to explore men
Gen Z Grit: Navigating Pressure, Purpose & College Life
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Rated Gen Z, host Raquel Host sits down with 19 year old Maliya for an honest and insightful conversation about growing up, navigating academic and social pressures, and finding your path in today’s world. Maliya shares her journey from San Diego to USC, her passion for behavioral economics and psychology, and the inspiration behind her own podcast, The Mental Pl
Season 2 E2 : Finding Your Voice and Building Your Brand: A Gen Z Journey with Harshini
Send us Fan MailIn this insightful episode of Rated Gen Z, Raquel sits down with Harshini—an 18-year-old changemaker who’s already deeply involved in community work, personal branding, and even preparing to launch her own podcast. The conversation dives into topics like building a personal brand on LinkedIn as a young adult, finding balance amidst school and extracurriculars, and the pressure Gen
Season 2 EP1 Turning 18: From Pistachio Cake to FDA Testimony with Anvita
Send us Fan MailSeason 2 kicks off with Anvita, who's graduated from Raq the Boat to Rated Gen Z by turning 18. We're covering the important stuff: her new baking obsession (pistachio cake included), what it's like speaking at FDA meetings about pediatric healthcare, and why turning 18 isn't the dramatic transformation everyone promises. powered by raqvisionIf you'd like t
E33: Marching Forward: Acceptance, Allstate Choir & Navigating Trans Teenhood
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, you’ll meet Pepper, an 18-year-old with a love for planes, a flair for music, and a thoughtful take on navigating young adulthood today. Pepper talks candidly about the realities of college applications, the highs and lows of participating in band and choir, and the challenges of finding a college that feels safe and welcoming as a trans student. There are genuine
E32: Empowering Hope: Gen Z's Global Impact & Entrepreneurship Journey
Send us Fan MailIn episode 32 of Rated Gen Z, we're diving deep into the power of youth-driven change with special guest Taylor Thigpen. From starting a thriving houseplant business at 14 to launching nonprofit initiatives that bridge cultures between American and Ukrainian youth, Taylor’s journey is all about purpose, passion, and real-world impact. Host Raquel returns from filming a Gen Z d
E31: The Paradox Generation: Why We're Told to Be Unique But Judged by Numbers
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we chat with Megumi, a Northwestern University student athlete who's got some real talk about what it's like to be Gen Z right now. She opens up about her work with the Evanston Special Olympics and how it changed her view on what success in sports really means. But that's just the start.Megumi doesn't hold back when it comes to the job hunt str
E30: Mic Drop Moments: Podcasting, Passion & Personal Growth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we kick it with Ryan, a young creative powerhouse who's crushing it in the world of content creation, podcasting, and business strategy. Ryan spills the tea on his journey from existential crisis at 19 to building a multi-faceted career that's all about making creativity his life's work. He's not just talking the talk - this guy's walking t
E29: The AI Generation: Insights on Tech, Love & Personal Growth
Send us Fan MailIn 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 h
E28: From LSU to Love Island: A Gen Z Perspective on Life & Love
Send us Fan MailIn 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 COVI
E27: Breaking Labels: How One Gen Z Survivor Rewrote Her Story
Send us Fan MailIn 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&apos
E26: Beyond the Feed: Creating Community Through Mental Health Advocacy
Send us Fan MailIn 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 space
E25: Gen Z vs. Human Trafficking: One Teen's Global Fight
Send us Fan MailIn 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
E24: From Burden to Pride: A Young Caregiver's Path to Empowerment & Advocacy
Send us Fan MailIn 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 men
E23: Navigating Gen Z Marketing: Mahika's Insights on Business & Social Media
Send us Fan MailIn 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
E22: A Young Innovator's Journey: From Lahore to Global Impact
Send us Fan MailIn 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 start
E21: The Genzpreneur: Building an Empire from Age 12 in the British Business World
Send us Fan MailIn this international episode, we cross the Atlantic to speak with 21-year-old Gregary, a self-proclaimed "Genzpreneur" who's been building businesses since the remarkable age of 12. From his home in the UK, Gregary shares the fascinating evolution of his entrepreneurial journey that led to establishing his thriving PR firm, where he now navigates the high-stakes wor
E20: Beyond the Gym Bro: How an 18-Year-Old Trainer Is Building Strength Through Service
Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Ben, an 18-year-old kinesiology student at Michigan State who's already launched his own personal training business while pursuing his dream of becoming the strength and conditioning coach for the New England Patriots. Far from the stereotypical gym rat, Ben reveals how his passion for fitness stems from a deeper desire to educate an
E19: Global Z: How a Nigerian Student Found Worldwide Connection Through Digital Community
Send us Fan MailIn this groundbreaking international episode, we welcome 18-year-old Cherish from Nigeria, currently studying in Uganda, as our first guest from the African continent. Despite the geographic distance, her experiences strike a powerful chord of universal resonance. Cherish candidly discusses the overwhelming pressures facing her generation and her ongoing journey to find balance and
E18: Designing Through Decades: A Gen Z Artist's Love Letter to '90s Culture & Modern Connection
Send us Fan MailIn this nostalgic yet forward-looking episode, we're joined by 20-year-old Julianna, a talented student from Rochester Institute of Technology who's designing the poster for our documentary "I Hear You, Gen Z." When not creating visual art, Julianna brings her passion for music and culture to her role at the college radio station, where she shares her eclectic t
E17: Campus, Clients & Content: How a Seasoned 19-Year-Old Podcaster and Social Media Strategist Balances Cornell and Consulting
Send us Fan MailIn this candid episode, 19-year-old Cornell University student Brij opens up about his unique upbringing as the son of a well-known comedian and his journey building a social media strategy business while balancing college demands. Having literally grown up in the public eye through his family's unfiltered podcast that tackles awkward and taboo topics with humor, Brij shares h
E16: Corner Office Confessions: A Bank Manager's Take on Corporate Life, Toxic Masculinity & Real Success
Send us Fan MailIn this eye-opening episode, 26-year-old Sean, a business relationship manager, offers a refreshing counter narrative to the "quit your 9-5" influencer culture dominating social media. With straightforward insight, he breaks down the often-overlooked benefits of corporate careers in an era that glorifies entrepreneurship above all else. Sean doesn't hold back when di
E15: Stage, Screen & Self-Love: A Latina's Path from Parental Doubt to Spotlight Success
Send us Fan MailIn this vibrant episode, we're joined by 26-year-old Gaby, a passionate Latina actress whose journey from family skepticism to professional success will leave you both inspired and entertained. With refreshing candor, Gaby reveals the surprising tactics she used to win over her traditional parents and secure their support for her acting dreams. She takes us behind the scenes o
E14: Edit Your Life: Balancing Entertainment Dreams, AI Anxiety & Screen-Time Sanity
Send us Fan MailIn this insightful episode, we sit down with 24-year-old Abigale, a rising video editor making her way through the entertainment industry. With candid honesty, Abigale pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a career in digital media while navigating the looming presence of AI in creative fields. She shares her practical strategies for maintaining mental wellbeing d
E13: Reforming More Than Just Bodies: A Pilates Instructor's Real Talk on Dating, Confidence, and Digital Filters
Send us Fan MailIn this refreshingly unfiltered episode, we connect with 25-year-old Sofia, a pilates instructor originally from Mexico City who's now making her mark in the fitness world. Beyond the studio, Sofia opens up about navigating the complex realities of modern dating, the very real pressures of deciding whether to have kids in today's world, and finding genuine self-confidence
E12: Between Two Worlds: Finding My Voice as a Chinese Student in America
Send us Fan MailIn this illuminating episode, we welcome 21-year-old JingJing, a business economics major at UC Irvine who moved from China to the United States at age 11. With remarkable candor, JingJing unpacks the complex reality of navigating between Eastern and Western cultures during her formative teenage years. She shares the raw challenges of language barriers, cultural misunderstandings,
E11: Rolling Through the Roadblocks: An 18-Year-Old Filmmaker's Hustle to Hollywood
Send us Fan MailIn this captivating episode, we sit down with 18-year-old Hayden, a rising filmmaker and current student at San Diego State University, who's already making waves with his short films. Hayden takes us behind the scenes of his creative journey, from his first moments holding a camera to navigating the competitive world of film school. With refreshing honesty, he unpacks the har
E10: Scrolling to Soulful: How a Car Crash Freed Me from Social Media & Revealed My Purpose
Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode, 24-year-old Genesis shares her transformative journey from social media addiction to spiritual awakening following a life-changing car accident. With raw honesty, she reveals how constant scrolling consumed her life until a sudden crash forced her to confront what truly matters. Genesis opens up about the challenging but liberating process of digital detox
E9: Physics, Brotherhood & Breaking the Stigma: Real Talk with a Citadel Cadet
Send us Fan MailJoin us for a powerful conversation with 20-year-old Mitchell, a physics student at The Citadel, as he breaks down both quantum mechanics and toxic masculinity. Going beyond the equations, Mitchell opens up about the critical importance of mental health and emotional support among young men, especially in military environments. He shares his personal journey of finding strength thr
E8: The Scholarship Strategy That Got Me $1M & My First Home
Send us Fan MailIn this empowering episode, 24-year-old Nia shares her remarkable journey of securing one million dollars in scholarship funds and becoming a homeowner at a young age. Whether you're a student dreaming of debt-free education or a young professional aiming for homeownership, Nia's practical advice and personal story will show you what's possible. Nia's mission is
E7: Breaking Records and Breaking Barriers: Serianna's Story of Determination
Send us Fan MailMeet Serianna, a 25-year-old record-breaking athlete who refused to let others define her potential. Despite being told her autism would limit her achievements, she went on to shatter expectations and cross country records at Upper Iowa University. In this inspiring conversation, Serianna shares her journey of facing doubts head-on and turning obstacles into opportunities. Now purs
E6: FINDING PURPOSE BEYOND PLANS: JORDAN'S JOURNEY OF FAITH AND CAREER CHANGE
Send us Fan MailIn this thought-provoking episode, 24-year-old Jordan shares how her faith journey led her to make the bold decision to step away from her planned career in dentistry. With refreshing honesty, she discusses the role religion plays in shaping her life choices and personal growth. While faith and religion can be polarizing topics, Jordan's story opens up an important conversatio
E5: THE REALITY OF RUNNING A BUSINESS AT 21: A Conversation with John
Send us Fan MailJoin us as 21-year-old entrepreneur John shares his journey of building a successful business and how a life-changing motorcycle accident shifted his entire perspective. He opens up about managing the mental aspects of entrepreneurship, from handling daily pressures to making tough business decisions. After his accident, John gained a new appreciation for what truly matters, reshap
E4: FROM YOUTUBE TO FASHION DREAMS: RAW TALKS WITH JANNETT CIRANDA
Send us Fan MailMeet Jannett Ciranda, a 19-year-old with a vision that spans multiple platforms and passions. In this candid conversation, she shares her journey as a budding YouTuber sharing authentic glimpses of her life, while dreaming of paths in marketing, acting, and creating a clothing line for tall women.With refreshing honesty, Jannett opens up about navigating her many ambitions, buildin
E3: SMALL TOWN TO LSU: FINDING YOUR WAY THROUGH FAILURE & MENTORSHIP
Send us Fan Mail20-year-old Joshua Jones opens up about his transformative journey from a small town to becoming a transfer student at Louisiana State University in 2024. With remarkable candor, Joshua shares the highs and lows of his year, proving that success isn't a straight line. He dives deep into how finding the right mentors changed his trajectory and offers fresh insights on embracing
E2: BUILDING LAWVILLE: YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR ZACHARY LAWRENCE ON RESILIENCE AND SELF BELIEF
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, 20-year-old entrepreneur Zachary Lawrence takes us behind the scenes of his clothing brand Lawville, sharing his raw and authentic journey through the ups and downs of building a business. From breakthrough moments to challenging setbacks, Zach reveals the valuable lessons he's learned along the way and opens up about his powerful mindset strategies for pushin
E1: THE EXHAUSTING WORLD OF 'THAT GIRL' EXPECTATIONS
Send us Fan MailWelcome to our inaugural episode! Our very first guest, 20 year old Leslie Ortiz breaks down the exhausting world of "that girl" expectations, Gen Z's relationship with beauty standards and juggling the pressure to have life figured out at such a young age. Whether you're feeling the Gen Z hustle or just want to understand it better, this episode pulls back the
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