Elita and Vallia, creators of the Gen Z(en) podcast, in conversation with Lillian Psylla
How did two girls from Chania—strangers to each other—end up not only sharing a flat in London, but also their dreams, the worries of an entire generation, and eventually, a microphone? Elita and Vallia share with GRtraveller the story behind their podcast, Gen Z(en), giving voice to their generation—loudly, yet without shouting.
What was the spark that turned two “strangers” into flatmates, collaborators and, finally, co-creators of Gen Z(en)?
Although we both grew up in Chania, we didn’t know each other. Life, however, had other plans. We both ended up at the LSE the same year. Our parents were friends, and through them we got in touch to help each other look for a place to live. The most practical solution was to move in together.
We weren’t friends yet. That came gradually—through late-night chats about the future, loneliness, money, and how much we missed our parents. After graduating, we made a promise: to keep talking, but this time to record our conversations and share them with others. That’s how Gen Z(en) began.
You moved to London full of dreams. How did that journey reshape your view of Greece and the idea of “home”?
Elita realised early on that London didn’t quite suit her. She missed the warmth and romance of Athens. Vallia, on the other hand, fell in love with the city—but once she started working, she longed for the light and energy of Greece. In different ways and at different paces, we both came to realise just how much we value our home country.
“Technology gave us infinite possibilities—and a great deal of loneliness.”
What does “Zen” mean to you—and why did you choose that name for a podcast representing a generation that’s anything but zen?
Exactly for that reason! It’s ironic. Instead of living carefree, we’re filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and psychosomatic stress. We’re not zen—at least, not yet. But we live with the hope that someday we’ll get there.
You were born into technology and raised through crises. What does that mean for the way you communicate, work and envision your future?
Technology has given us infinite possibilities—and deep loneliness. We struggle to communicate meaningfully, to negotiate, to assert ourselves. Social media floods us with information and constant comparison. Somewhere in the chaos, we lose touch with what we truly want.
What are the biggest clichés you hear about your generation, and how do you challenge them through your content?
That we’re lazy. In truth, we were shaped by crises—economic, health-related, geopolitical. We have endless options, but that often leads to overwhelm. And social media intensifies the pressure. Through Gen Z(en), we explore these topics with honesty and empathy.
If you were to design a “Gen Z(en) road trip” across Greece, where would you go and what would you want to highlight?
We’d skip the obvious tourist hotspots and choose authentic, traditional places—somewhere we could reconnect with what’s local, calm, and real. Our generation is nostalgic; we look back to find meaning going forward. The ultimate Gen Z(en) road trip? Crete. Not just because we’re from there, but because every stop is an experience: dreamlike beaches, raki in mountain villages, festivals and local feasts.
Do you think Greek tourism truly understands the needs of the new generation of travellers? What’s missing and what needs to change?
We’re not just about beach bars and pools. We crave connection—to nature, to food, to people. Greece lacks hostels and co-living optio
ns. We want innovative solutions: car sharing, communal stays. We’re looking for experiences—not just holidays.
What’s your dream for the evolution of Gen Z(en)? Are you thinking about video, live events or even reaching an international audience?We started with zero expectations, and now we’re part of pod.gr. From our laptop, we made it to the studio. Next up: live events—to meet our community in real life. An international audience isn’t in the plan yet, but we never say never. We go with the flow—always guided by our vision.
Have you ever felt that older generations don’t take your voice seriously? How do you claim your place in public discourse?
We have—especially in professional spaces. Our answer is this: knowledge. When you come with arguments, integrity and evidence, you create space—even where none exists. Our academic background and professional growth give us the confidence to be heard.
What would you say to a younger member of Gen Z who feels like their voice doesn’t matter?
Don’t give up. Believe in yourself—even when it’s hard. Invest in knowledge and learn to express yourself with substance and respect. Sometimes, it’s not that your voice doesn’t matter—it’s just that you’re in the wrong room. Find or create the space that hears you. And remember: you don’t need to shout to be heard. You just need to know what you’re saying—and why.
