Wit + Grit

PJ Ellis and Andy Dawson
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We’re PJ Ellis and Andy Dawson - two dads, two mates, who’ve spent our lives working across business, law, education, charity, and media. Between us, we've made a lot of mistakes, asked a lot of questions, and raised kids who are about to walk into a world of work that’s nothing like the one we grew up in. That’s why we started Wit + Grit - a space for real, human conversations about what it takes to thrive in a world full of AI, constant pressure, and curated perfection. This podcast is about the skills you can’t Google. Things like confidence, resilience, emotional intelligence, how to fail well, how to bounce back, how to speak up, and how to listen. We’re not here to give perfect advice. We’re here to ask better questions. How do we prepare our kids for jobs that don’t exist yet? How do we connect generations in a divided, digital world? What makes someone truly employable in 2025 and beyond? Each episode, we’ll chat with educators, grads, parents, leaders, misfits, mentors, and all-round brilliant people who’ve lived through the stuff that doesn’t come with a textbook. If you’re a parent, a young person starting out, an old-head or experienced leader, or just someone trying to figure out how to be more human in a world full of noise - this one’s for you. Follow us, subscribe, and let’s have the conversations that matter - with a bit of humour, a lot of honesty, and absolutely no corporate jargon. You can connect with us at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/107731497/ LinkedIn: PJ Ellis & Andy Dawson Let’s get into it.

  1. Daniel Wilsher's iOS Update: Shedding Identity + Rebuilding from Within

    1D AGO

    Daniel Wilsher's iOS Update: Shedding Identity + Rebuilding from Within

    In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, Daniel Wilsher shares what he calls his “iOS update” - a shedding of identity. After years of building his public platform around the suicide of his father and his own mental health journey, Daniel realised something profound: The story that built him, no longer fits him. From losing his dad at 9, battling addiction, therapy, public speaking, Channel 4’s The Piano, and impacting 25,000 students in 20 days, Daniel reflects on identity, reinvention, masculinity, hope, parenting, resilience, and the responsibility we all share for the next generation. This is not an episode about trauma. It’s an episode about evolution. About what happens when the thing that made you, isn’t who you are anymore. Takeaways • Identity can evolve - even when the world expects you to stay the same • Behavioural change is slow - give yourself grace (20% after 6 months is still progress) • We are not designed to do life alone - build and use your support network • Young people don’t need “toughening up” - they need modelling, leadership and challenge • Praise can transform identity faster than punishment • Who you become matters more than what you achieve • Businesses have a role in shaping the next generation • Service without expectation fills the cup • Solitude and reflection are performance tools, not luxuries • Sometimes growth means shedding the skin that once protected you Keywords Daniel Wilsher, mental health, identity shift, personal reinvention, parenting in 2025, resilience, behavioural change, leadership, masculinity, hope for young people, school mental health, social media impact, ADHD, public speaking, trauma recovery, service leadership, solitude, reflection, LifeX program, youth development, corporate social responsibility, mentoring young men Chapters 00:00 – The “iOS Update” 02:00 – Shedding the story that built you 05:30 – Why behavioural change takes longer than you think 09:30 – The power of male support networks 13:00 – 100 talks in 20 days: the school tour 16:30 – The student who couldn’t name one good thing about himself 20:00 – What to tell a 15-year-old finding his way 22:00 – Working with kids vs corporates 24:00 – “Kids need to toughen up” — response to leaders 30:00 – Social media, AI & parenting in 2025 39:00 – Filling your own cup 44:00 – Daniel’s spoken word: Reflections 46:00 – What’s next? LifeX & the HOPE program 50:00 – Final takeaways

    51 min
  2. Joel Blake: It’s Not Who You Know - It’s Who Knows You

    FEB 9

    Joel Blake: It’s Not Who You Know - It’s Who Knows You

    Joel Blake is a private client solicitor at Wilkes, a Future Faces ambassador, and a Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year winner - but his story starts in Dudley, navigating limited role models and plenty of “you’ll never make it” moments. In this episode, Joel shares how rejection shaped his resilience, why confidence is built over time, and the mantra that changed everything: it’s not who you know, it’s who knows you. We also dig into imposter syndrome, bridging generational gaps at work (including “upward mentoring”), and why networking works best when it’s human, not transactional. If you’re a young professional trying to find your way - or a leader who wants to build a stronger team culture - this one’s for you. Key takeaways Rejection is part of the process - consistency beats talent when you keep showing up. “It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.” Put yourself in rooms and build real relationships. Authenticity wins long-term - pretending to be someone else is exhausting (and unnecessary). Networking isn’t transactional - it’s about genuine conversations and playing the long game. Upward mentoring matters - juniors bring value too; trust is built in the small moments. Working-class background = strength - it can become your edge for empathy, rapport, and connection. Get comfortable being uncomfortable - growth lives on the other side of fear. Keywords Joel Blake, Wilkes, private client solicitor, Future Faces, Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, young professionals, Birmingham, West Midlands, Dudley, Jamaican heritage, social mobility, imposter syndrome, confidence, networking, mentorship, upward mentoring, leadership, trust, resilience, rejection, career development, professional services, law careers, authenticity, workplace culture, generational leadership, community, opportunity Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joel Blake 01:57 Joel's Upbringing and Early Aspirations 06:55 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience 12:10 Career Journey at Wilkes 16:32 Navigating Change in the Legal Profession 21:14 Building Confidence and Professional Growth 24:14 Fostering Collaboration Across Generations 25:30 Unveiling Surprising Aspects of Personal Growth 27:00 The Power of Authentic Networking 30:09 Pride in Regional Development 34:13 Vision for the Future: Inspiring the Next Generation 36:00 Empowering Young Professionals through Future Faces 38:31 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Authenticity 40:43 Encouragement for the Underestimated 43:36 Setting Ambitious Goals for 2026

    47 min
  3. Everybody Needs a Gandalf Stick: Courage and Leadership with Lisa Butler

    FEB 3

    Everybody Needs a Gandalf Stick: Courage and Leadership with Lisa Butler

    In this conversation, Lisa Butler shares her inspiring journey from an 18-year military career to becoming a coach and advocate for courage and leadership. She discusses overcoming early challenges, the importance of resilience, and how her military experience shaped her understanding of courage. Lisa emphasises the need for individuals to be brave in their personal and professional lives, the significance of recognising and supporting others' struggles, and the role of boundaries in maintaining mental well-being. She introduces her upcoming initiative, The Courage Collective, aimed at fostering a supportive community for personal growth and empowerment. Takeaways Dreams start with tea and ginger biscuits.Importance of having that road track in your mind.Blow things up if you can.Courage shows up every day.There's a real importance of knowing who your people are.Help people to be brave.Be fierce in your own agency.We miss opportunities if we are not brave.Speak up about things that are wrong.Everyone needs a Gandalf stick. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lisa Butler's Journey 02:50 Overcoming Early Challenges and Building Resilience 05:45 Military Career and Lessons Learned 08:57 Transitioning to Coaching and Leadership 11:54 The Importance of Courage in Today's World 14:42 Recognising and Supporting Others in Need 26:51 Navigating the 'I'm Fine' Culture 29:20 Inner Child Work and Rebuilding Confidence 31:57 Transforming Limiting Beliefs 35:29 The Importance of Values and Boundaries 42:12 Creating Community and Courage 50:05 Empowering Responses to Demeaning Language

    47 min
  4. Chris Meah Asks: Will AI Kill Us All?

    JAN 21

    Chris Meah Asks: Will AI Kill Us All?

    Summary: In this episode Chris Meah, an AI expert and founder of Meah Labs and the School of Code, discusses the transformative power of AI, the importance of lifelong learning, and the future of education and work. He shares insights on how AI is reshaping industries and the skills needed to thrive in a tech-driven world. The question is, will AI be the end of us all? ----- Takeaways: AI is reshaping industries and requires new skills. Lifelong learning is essential in a tech-driven world. The School of Code helps people transition into tech careers. AI can enhance human capabilities if used wisely. Education systems must adapt to prepare for future challenges. Critical thinking and adaptability are key skills for the future. AI's impact on society is both promising and challenging. Open discussions about AI's role in society are crucial. The future of work will be more tech-centric and collaborative. AI can democratize access to information and opportunities. ----- Keywords: AI, School of Code, lifelong learning, technology, education, future of work ----- Chapters: 00:52 Chris Meah's Journey into AI 05:55 Understanding AI: What It Is and Isn't 09:08 The Optimism and Pessimism of AI 18:13 The Power Dynamics of AI Technology 22:17 Encouraging AI Adoption in Businesses 25:28 The Importance of Lifelong Learning 33:01 The Importance of Hardship in Childhood 34:44 Creating a Safe Learning Environment 38:55 AI's Role in Human Development 40:57 Business Innovation and Exploration 47:54 The Future of AI and Humanity

    1h 2m
  5. Luther Burrell: The Power of Honesty, Resilience, and Creating Positive Change

    JAN 12

    Luther Burrell: The Power of Honesty, Resilience, and Creating Positive Change

    SummaryIn this episode, former England international rugby player Luther Burrell shares his journey from professional sports to philanthropy, discussing identity, race, and mental wellbeing. He reflects on his transition from elite sports, the challenges of finding purpose post-retirement, and the importance of networking and community impact. Luther emphasises the power of honesty, resilience, and creating positive change through his foundation. KeywordsLuther Burrell, rugby, identity, race, mental wellbeing, philanthropy, transition, networking, community impact, resilience TakeawaysGood people will find good people.Throw mud at the wall until the good thing sticks.Be honest with yourself.No one is coming to you with a magic wand.Those that you meet on the way up, you'll meet on the way back down.Power of deconstructing yourself.Always have a no d******d policy, but stress test this ASAP.The importance of breathing.Focus on the controllables.A problem shared is a problem halved. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Luther Burrell 03:15 Life After Professional Sport 08:30 Survival Mode: The Transition Challenge 15:11 Asking for Help: Breaking Down Barriers 21:06 What Do I Have to Offer? 30:22 Building High-Performing Teams 32:56 Building a Culture of Accountability 34:48 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 37:30 Navigating Racism in Sports 42:28 The Impact of Philanthropy and Community Work 50:23 Transformative Power of Sport 57:04 Inspiring the Next Generation

    1 hr
  6. Press Go - Why Momentum Beats Perfection

    12/22/2025

    Press Go - Why Momentum Beats Perfection

    In this reflective episode, PJ and Andy pause to mark a milestone: 21 episodes down. What started in June 2025 with a simple decision - “let’s just press go” - has become a powerful lesson in momentum, confidence, and learning through action. They explore why perfection is often the enemy of progress, how confidence is built through doing (not thinking), and why most people underestimate the value of simply staying in the game. From Roger Federer winning just 53% of the points he ever played, to the importance of lead vs lag measures, mental fitness, trusting your gut, and protecting your time - this conversation is a grounded, honest look at what really moves things forward. This isn’t a how-to episode. It’s a perspective shift. A reminder that clarity can come after motion - not before it. ------ KEY TAKEAWAYS 1️⃣ Momentum creates clarity - not the other way around Waiting to feel “ready” keeps most people stuck. Pressing go creates feedback, confidence, and direction you can’t think your way into. 2️⃣ You’ve got to be able to fail to win Roger Federer won just 53% of the points he ever played. The difference wasn’t perfection - it was his ability to reset and play the next point. 3️⃣ Confidence is evidence-based Real confidence doesn’t come from affirmations. It comes from giving the world irrefutable proof that you are who you say you are — by showing up and doing the work. 4️⃣ Consistency beats intensity Some days are 100%. Some days are 5%. Doing something keeps momentum alive — and momentum compounds. 5️⃣ Lead measures matter more than money (early on) Downloads, conversations, invitations, engagement, feedback - these are signs you’re moving in the right direction long before revenue appears. 6️⃣ Protect your time like it’s your most valuable asset Because it is. Time is often given away to people, jobs and tasks that don’t serve us - and we rarely get it back. 7️⃣ Don’t do it alone Ideas grow faster - and more safely - when shared. Having someone alongside you helps challenge blind spots, build belief, and avoid isolation. 🎯 WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR • Anyone sitting on an idea • Founders and creators early in the journey • People struggling with confidence or overthinking • Anyone who feels stuck waiting for “the right time” • Those navigating change without a clear rulebook 🧠 CORE THEMES • Pressing go • Momentum vs perfection • Confidence through action • Failure and resilience • Mental fitness • Trusting your gut • Time, energy and priorities • Learning on the job Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage: The Journey Begins 02:42 Momentum and Growth: The Power of Starting 05:21 Learning Through Experience: The Value of Failure 08:17 Defining Success: Beyond Financial Metrics 11:10 Time Management: Prioritizing What Matters 14:34 Trusting Your Gut: Navigating Risks in Business 17:15 The Importance of Community and Feedback 20:08 Physical and Mental Fitness: Foundations for Success 22:57 Iterating and Evolving: What’s Next for the Podcast? 25:48 Final Thoughts: Encouragement for Aspiring Creators

    30 min
  7. Siblings in Sync. Peg and Will: Poker and Mindfulness

    12/15/2025

    Siblings in Sync. Peg and Will: Poker and Mindfulness

    SummaryIn this episode, siblings Peggy and Will Crawford discuss their unique career paths and shared experiences. Peggy, a data analyst and semi-pro poker player, shares insights into the poker world and her journey in content creation. Will, founder of Quiet Note, talks about integrating mindfulness and music to improve mental wellbeing. They explore the challenges and rewards of their respective fields, emphasising resilience, passion, and the importance of mental health. The conversation also touches on their supportive sibling relationship and future aspirations. Let's get into it. Keywordssiblings, poker, mindfulness, mental wellbeing, content creation, resilience, passion, mental health, Quietnote, career paths TakeawaysPeggy Crawford is a data analyst and poker player.Will founded Quiet Note, focusing on mindfulness and music.Resilience and passion are key to success.Mental health is a priority for both siblings.Peggy shares insights into the poker world.Will integrates music and mindfulness for wellbeing.The siblings support each other's careers.Future aspirations include expanding their ventures.They emphasise the importance of mental health.The conversation highlights their unique career paths. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Crawfords 01:21 Peggy's Journey in Poker and Data Analysis 03:51 Will's Mindfulness and Music Business 06:53 Daily Routines and Work-Life Balance 09:49 Innovative Approaches to Mental Health 12:36 Sibling Dynamics and Collaboration 15:22 The Intersection of Poker and Strategy 18:06 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 20:38 Mindset and Resilience in Business 23:25 The Importance of Patience and Purpose 28:39 Rituals and Habits for Grounding 32:33 Mindfulness in Poker and Life 36:05 Building Community Through Poker 39:52 Future Aspirations in Poker and Business 44:21 Advice for the Next Generation

    47 min
  8. From 93p an Hour to 26 McDonald’s and a UK-First Kids Village - Doug Wright MBE DL

    12/09/2025

    From 93p an Hour to 26 McDonald’s and a UK-First Kids Village - Doug Wright MBE DL

    In this episode of Wit + Grit, we are joined by Doug Wright MBE DL - a man whose life reads like a masterclass in resilience and service. Doug shares how he went from failing his exams and disappointing his parents to finding purpose on 93p an hour at McDonald’s, becoming the youngest restaurant manager, and then having his world turned upside down after a devastating car accident that left him temporarily paralysed from the neck down. He talks candidly about the charities that supported his family during that time, how that shaped his lifelong commitment to giving back, and how he eventually became a McDonald’s franchisee with just £612 to his name, growing to 26 restaurants across the West Midlands. Doug opens up about: • The Kids Village project – a UK-first respite holiday village for seriously ill children and their families – and how they’ve just raised £5.3m, opening three years ahead of schedule. • Why his two non-negotiables are “honest and hardworking”, and how “why wouldn’t we?” became the heart of his culture. • What he’s learned from mentoring hundreds of business owners, his time as High Sheriff of the West Midlands, and why he believes sport and food are the international languages of connection. • The advice he’d give to 16-year-old Doug after that first shift cleaning toilets: “Well done fella – keep going, be yourself, and don’t do it alone.” If you care about people-first leadership, community impact and staying positive in the hardest moments, this one will stay with you. ------ Key Takeaways • Resilience isn’t theory – it’s lived: Doug broke his neck at 20 and was told he might never walk again. That moment became his lightbulb: if I get through this, I’ll use my life as a force for good. • Someone believing in you can change everything: McDonald’s gave him a chance when he was “pretty much unemployable”. That belief is now the core of how he hires, leads, and mentors. • From 93p an hour to 26 restaurants: With just £612 and one bank willing to back him, Doug built a multi-restaurant franchise, employing 66,000 people over 44 years. • Two H’s and two promises: If you bring Honest and Hardworking, Doug promises you’ll be made to feel valued and special. • Why wouldn’t we? Instead of shutting people out because they don’t fit a rigid corporate rulebook, Doug’s default is to ask “Why wouldn’t we?” – especially around flexible work and opportunity. • Retention > recruitment: Hospitality has huge staff turnover. Doug flipped the model – investing heavily in retention, development and trust instead of endlessly chasing new hires. • Articulate the WHY before you shake the bucket: In charity work (Ronald McDonald House, Kids Village), Doug doesn’t start with asking for money. He starts with a compelling why, builds love for the cause, then shows clear impact. • Third-party advocacy beats self-promotion: Let the people you serve tell the story – families, children, and community voices are more powerful than any CEO speech. • Sport and food as international languages: Sport (and a good meal) can bring people together across cultures, languages and divides – especially in an “angry world”. • Advice to young people (and 16-year-old Doug): Be yourself, be proud of what you’re doing, protect your mental health, step away from social media, and don’t try to do life alone. ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Doug Wright's Journey 01:17 The Kids Village Initiative 05:48 Early Life and Career Beginnings 12:17 Overcoming Adversity: The Accident 15:20 Recovery and Ambitions 17:09 Becoming a McDonald's Franchisee 18:51 Building a Business and Non-Negotiables 19:43 Transforming Workplace Culture 23:43 The Journey of Growth and Community Engagement 26:55 Mentorship and Empowering the Next Generation 31:43...

    48 min
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Trailer

About

We’re PJ Ellis and Andy Dawson - two dads, two mates, who’ve spent our lives working across business, law, education, charity, and media. Between us, we've made a lot of mistakes, asked a lot of questions, and raised kids who are about to walk into a world of work that’s nothing like the one we grew up in. That’s why we started Wit + Grit - a space for real, human conversations about what it takes to thrive in a world full of AI, constant pressure, and curated perfection. This podcast is about the skills you can’t Google. Things like confidence, resilience, emotional intelligence, how to fail well, how to bounce back, how to speak up, and how to listen. We’re not here to give perfect advice. We’re here to ask better questions. How do we prepare our kids for jobs that don’t exist yet? How do we connect generations in a divided, digital world? What makes someone truly employable in 2025 and beyond? Each episode, we’ll chat with educators, grads, parents, leaders, misfits, mentors, and all-round brilliant people who’ve lived through the stuff that doesn’t come with a textbook. If you’re a parent, a young person starting out, an old-head or experienced leader, or just someone trying to figure out how to be more human in a world full of noise - this one’s for you. Follow us, subscribe, and let’s have the conversations that matter - with a bit of humour, a lot of honesty, and absolutely no corporate jargon. You can connect with us at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/107731497/ LinkedIn: PJ Ellis & Andy Dawson Let’s get into it.

Information

  • Creator
    PJ Ellis and Andy Dawson
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 PJ Ellis and Andy Dawson
  • Show Website
    Wit + Grit

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