The Instigation Dispatch: 5.19.25

It's all about congrats and cringe this week asthe caps and gowns are dominating our timelines and culture is becoming a lost art at your favorite agencies.

Another week is in the books, and while The Instigation Department is still judging your Cowboy Carter concert ‘fits, the world keeps shifting beneath our feet faster than a teenager can ignore your texts.

This week, we’ve got two pieces worth your weekend scroll. First, a graduation message for the Class of 2025 (one part inspiration, one part reality check) urging them to build a life, not just chase a living, especially in a world that’s rapidly rewriting the rules. Then, we ask the uncomfortable question ad agencies keep avoiding: did we lose our ability to create culture somewhere between chasing influencers and chasing KPIs?

Give it a read. Forward it to your favorite intern and your most jaded creative director. Use it to spark a convo over overpriced coffee or during a long walk where you pretend you're not doomscrolling.

We’ll be here, instigating as always.