What We Keep Getting Wrong About Gen Z- Tobeszn

Speaking on the Mentality with Ebuka podcast, content creator Tobeszn challenged some of the common assumptions about Gen Z, arguing that many of the criticisms directed at the generation stem from misunderstanding rather than reality.

According to him, every generation is shaped by the world it inherits. For Gen Z, that world is one defined by technology, economic uncertainty, mental health awareness and constant digital connectivity. As a result, their outlook on life, careers and relationships naturally differs from those who came before them.

Rather than viewing Gen Z as rebellious, Tobeszn suggested that many are simply more audacious to question outdated norms. They are less afraid to prioritise work-life balance, speak openly about mental health and walk away from environments they believe are unhealthy.

That willingness to challenge tradition is often mistaken for disrespect, he noted.

The conversation also touched on how Gen Z communicates. While older generations may interpret their directness as rudeness, many young people see it as honesty and authenticity. Likewise, their comfort with social media is often dismissed as vanity, even though many have transformed digital platforms into thriving businesses and careers.

From content creation and technology to entrepreneurship and creative industries, Gen Z has demonstrated an ability to adapt quickly to a rapidly changing world. They are building careers that barely existed a decade ago while redefining what success looks like.

Of course, the generation is not without its flaws. Like every generation before it, Gen Z faces its own challenges, from navigating online pressures to balancing ambition with the realities of an uncertain economy.

Yet Tobeszn believes reducing an entire generation to stereotypes does little to bridge the gap between young people and those trying to understand them.

Perhaps the real question isn’t whether Gen Z is different; it clearly is. The more important question is whether society is willing to understand why.

As the discussion on MENtality with Ebuka suggests, the conversation about Gen Z may say just as much about older generations as it does about the young people they are trying to define.