The Marketing Bestie Podcast with zoeunlimited you’re 12, but you can’t read
Oct 13, 2025
In a world where 12-year-olds slather on anti-aging cream but struggle to read, a crisis in literacy unfolds. The acceptance of illiteracy raises eyebrows as Gen Alpha's learning becomes devalued. Zoe examines how digital culture, remote learning, and 'iPad role models' shape societal norms. The podcast critiques gentle parenting and its link to kids' disinterest in education. Ultimately, there's a call to action for listeners to protect curiosity and foster lifelong learning amidst a screen-dominated landscape.
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Digital Birthright, Shallow Knowledge
- Gen Alpha grows up as the first fully digital generation and often lacks basic literacy despite abundant access to information.
- Zoe argues that easy access to screens doesn't equal meaningful learning or curiosity development.
The Lowering Bar In Education
- Schools lowered expectations and pass students despite widespread underperformance.
- Zoe warns this normalization will cascade so middle school becomes elementary-level learning if not addressed.
COVID-Era Grade Inflation Example
- Zoe shares a personal observation about UCLA courses getting reduced to easier online exams during COVID.
- She argues many students received high grades without retaining real knowledge from those streamlined assessments.