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June 5, 2025 30 mins

Millennials have been mocked, memed, and misunderstood for years—but what if they were actually onto something all along?


In this episode, Aves dives deep into the millennial psyche: their nostalgia, their resistance to cringe, their complex relationship with identity, and how all of it plays out in the world of marketing.


From iPod ads and participation ribbons to avocado toast and Disney adults, we explore what actually motivates millennial buyers—and how brands can authentically connect with them.


Whether you're a marketer trying to reach this elusive generation or a millennial just trying your best, this one's for you.


Plus: Why Gen Z fumbled the bag, how to tap into emotion without pandering, and a love letter to M83, ukuleles, and the magic of posting just for fun.


00:00 Why Millennials Are Obsessed With Nostalgia

02:00 What Nostalgia Meant in the 17th Century

05:00 Millennial Internet vs Gen Z Internet

08:00 How Millennials Use the Internet for Identity

11:00 Why Millennials Reject Trends and Embrace Cringe

14:00 Marketing to Millennials With Authenticity

17:00 The Emotional Power of iPod Ads and Saturated Colors

21:00 Building Products That Align With Millennial Values

24:00 Why Respect and Identity Matter in Millennial Branding

27:00 Final Thoughts on Selling to Millennials


#Millennials #MarketingStrategy #NostalgiaMarketing #BrandAuthenticity #DigitalCulture #GenerationalMarketing #MillennialConsumers #MarketingTips #AdvertisingTrends #ConsumerBehavior #MillennialNostalgia #CringeCulture #GenZvsMillennials #MarketingPodcast #Pilothouse


Work with Pilothouse: ⁠https://www.pilothouse.co/get-in-touch?utm_source=dtc&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=e&rPodcast⁠

Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DTCPodcast

Subscribe to DTC: ⁠https://www.directtoconsumer.co/⁠

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