All Episodes

June 27, 2024 53 mins

Gen Z is far more complex and resourceful than popular stereotypes suggest — intimate conversations with young people show us how they're navigating an increasingly challenging world. Their attitudes towards work, creativity, and personal fulfillment tell us a lot about how this generation is forging its path. 


In this episode of In the Demo, host Adam Pierno speaks with filmmakers Branden Mayer and Max Goldstein about their documentary ‘Wasted’. The film explores the lives of Gen Z individuals in Vancouver, challenging common misconceptions about their work ethic and aspirations. Mayer and Goldstein discuss their research methodology, the process of building trust with their subjects, and the unexpected revelations that emerged during filming. They also reflect on how their findings apply to broader generational trends and the evolving nature of work in today's economy. 


Resources 

'Wasted’ - documentary by Further&Further

The View - (ABC) — clip features the Joy Behar moment referenced in the documentary and our interview

Rick and Morty (Adult Swim) — trust us, you'll like it


Our Guests 

Branden Mayer – Film Director 

  • Branden has over eight years of experience directing, editing, and producing video content, including interviews, event coverage, short documentaries, and scripted productions. Most recently, Branden has worked as a videographer for brands such as Amazon, Ford, and Pfizer. Branden is dedicated to creating authentic and powerful documentary films with Further&Further. 


Max Goldstein – Creative Producer / Research Associate 

  • Max joins F&F with an insatiable curiosity and love for people. Most recently, they worked as a Creative Producer for a boutique agency in Chicago, where they booked talent for their entire roster of brands. Max has been a fixture in various creative communities for 10+ years. Their band, Yoko and the Oh No’s, started in Chicago’s DIY music scene, and they’ve carried that DIY mentality into everything they do. 


Your Host 

Adam Pierno is an author, strategist, and managing director of brand strategy at Arizona State University. He is also the founder of Specific Branding and Research, where he helps brands understand customer habits and create effective growth strategies. With 25 years of experience, Adam has written two books on marketing. Discover more at adampierno.com and find Adam on LinkedIn


Stay Connected 

 

Sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive content, episode highlights, and behind-the-scenes insights delivered to your inbox.


Hosted on Acast. See


Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

24/7 News: The Latest

24/7 News: The Latest

The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.

Therapy Gecko

Therapy Gecko

An unlicensed lizard psychologist travels the universe talking to strangers about absolutely nothing. TO CALL THE GECKO: follow me on https://www.twitch.tv/lyleforever to get a notification for when I am taking calls. I am usually live Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays but lately a lot of other times too. I am a gecko.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.