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. Abi Edmunds: Your Child Isn't Just Scrolling.

    Jun 16

    Abi Edmunds: Your Child Isn't Just Scrolling.

    As our government moves towards restricting social media access for young people, the debate has shifted from whether there is a problem to what we do about it. In this episode, we sit down with Abi Edmunds, founder of Social Media Resilience, to explore the realities of growing up online and the skills young people need to navigate an increasingly complex digital world. From social media bans and online safety to AI-generated content, misinformation and emotional resilience, Abi shares what she’s learning from thousands of conversations in classrooms across the UK. Most importantly, she explains why banning technology alone won’t solve the problem. and why critical thinking, community and open conversations may be our best defence. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, employer or simply trying to make sense of modern life online, this is a conversation that matters. Key takeaways The social media ban is the start of a solution, not the solution itself. Young people don’t need more lectures. They need more conversations. Social media isn’t just scrolling. It’s community, identity, friendship and belonging. The most important digital skill may be critical thinking. We’re about as good at spotting AI content as flipping a coin. Online resilience starts with one simple habit: pause. Children often understand the technology better than adults. Adults need to understand the environment better than children. If we remove one platform, young people will find another. The underlying need for connection remains. Parents don’t need all the answers. They need better conversations. The future belongs to people who can question what they see, not just consume it. Keywords Social Media Resilience, Abi Edmunds, Online Safety, Digital Wellbeing, Critical Thinking, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Misinformation, Disinformation, Social Media Ban, Online Harm, Parenting, Education, Future Skills, Mental Health, Emotional Resilience, Young People, Schools, Technology, Digital Literacy, Media Literacy, Social Media, TikTok, Instagram, Algorithms, Wit + Grit Podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 00:36 Social media restrictions for youth: insights and challenges 01:34 Australian social media trial: what worked and what didn't 02:54 Introducing Social Media Resilience: mission and impact 04:46 Parents' concerns and the importance of resilience education 05:42 The evolving online landscape and youth behavior 07:18 Classroom conversations and engaging young learners 09:29 Building critical thinking skills and online literacy 10:18 The influence of tech companies and behavioral design 11:55 Society, democracy, and the power of algorithms 12:24 Misconceptions about social media among parents 13:38 Hope and opportunities in social media use 14:39 Curriculum design for online critical thinking 17:02 Role of schools and teachers in online safety education 18:31 Success stories and classroom breakthroughs 19:30 Practical tips for parents: grayscale and digital habits 20:14 Teaching critical thinking in a world of AI and deepfakes 21:05 Spotting AI-generated content: challenges and techniques 21:45 The future of media and AI in society 22:28 Personal social media habits and professional boundaries 23:17 Advice for young adults on social media awareness 24:04 Encouraging offline communities and healthy social habits 25:00 The upcoming Screen Smart Parents newsletter 26:27 Closing remarks and key takeaways

    28 min
  2. Reclaiming What It Means To Be Human with Workforce Futurist Stuart Evans

    Jun 10

    Reclaiming What It Means To Be Human with Workforce Futurist Stuart Evans

    In this episode, we sit down with workplace futurist Stuart Evans to explore AI, robotics, the future of work and what it all means for young people. From agentic AI and humanoid robots to university debt, entry-level jobs, adaptability and the future of human skills, this is a conversation about what happens when work changes faster than our old systems can keep up. Stuart challenges the idea that young people should simply follow the same paths as previous generations and argues that the most valuable future skills may not be technical at all - but deeply human. Key takeaways * Work is shifting from a place you go to something you do. * AI assistants are only the start; agentic AI is the real shift. * Repeatable tasks will increasingly move away from humans. * Young people may be inheriting outdated career advice. * Degrees won’t always be the best route to meaningful work. * Adaptability may be the most important future skill. * Humans tolerate human failure more easily than tech failure. * Generation Alpha may redefine what work and success mean. * The future may need fewer traditional jobs, but more human value. * The big question is how humans and technology work together. Keywords AI, future of work, agentic AI, workplace futurist, Stuart Evans, human skills, adaptability, Generation Alpha, robotics, humanoid robots, young people, careers, education, university, employability, automation, leadership, emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, technology, work culture, Wit + Grit. Chapters List 00:00 The Future of Work: A New Landscape 03:07 AI and Its Impact on Employment 05:42 Humanoid Robotics: The Next Frontier 08:21 The Changing Perception of AI 10:52 Education and the Skills Gap 13:21 The Role of Adaptability in the Future 16:01 Redefining Success for Future Generations 18:24 The Shift in Work Dynamics 20:50 Community and Career Identity 23:38 The Future of Work: A Choice, Not a Necessity 29:30 Understanding Generation Alpha: Digital Natives and Their World 32:48 Education in the Age of AI: Preparing for the Future 35:21 Navigating Career Paths: Embracing Adaptability 37:35 The Ethics of AI: Data Centers and Autonomous Weapons 39:40 Neuralink and the Future of Human Enhancement 41:01 The Metaverse: Reality vs. Virtual Experience 43:11 The Future of Work: A Blended Human-Digital Workforce

    47 min
  3. The Work Experience Problem: The Future Needs a First Chance

    Jun 2

    The Work Experience Problem: The Future Needs a First Chance

    In this episode, PJ and Andy reflect on Jess Dunn’s week of work experience with Wit + Grit, what it revealed about young people, confidence, opportunity and the future of work. From students struggling to secure placements, to AI anxiety, skills shortages, third sector pressure and the need for businesses to “press go”, this is a conversation about moving beyond roundtables and into action. Let's do this. Key takeaways * Young people are more anxious about the future than many adults realise. * Work experience expectations are often far too low. * Businesses can make a huge impact by simply opening the door. * AI is creating both opportunity and fear for the next generation. * Human skills like critical thinking will matter more than ever. * The third sector is already doing vital work but often lacks resource. * We need better infrastructure connecting young people, schools, charities and businesses. Keywords Wit + Grit, work experience, young people, future of work, AI, Microsoft Work Trends, Birmingham, skills shortage, employability, third sector, social mobility, opportunity, critical thinking, youth employment, business leadership, placements. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Mentorship and Youth Empowerment 02:15 Challenges in Youth Employment and Future Anxiety 05:20 The Role of AI in Shaping Future Careers 06:35 Creating Opportunities Through Collaboration 08:48 The Importance of Human Skills in the AI Era 11:57 Navigating the New Normal in a Changing World 21:41 The Power of Reading and Inspiration 22:24 Daily Habits and Small Efforts 24:17 Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation 25:52 Addressing the Skills Shortage Debate 30:03 Engaging the Community for Change 31:18 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations 36:30 outro1.mp3

    37 min
  4. Jessica Dunn: Give Young People a Chance

    May 20

    Jessica Dunn: Give Young People a Chance

    At 17, Jessica Dunn was trying to find work experience in media, marketing, journalism and radio. After around 10 rejections, she was almost left spending the week in the school canteen. In this episode, Jess shares how young people are really feeling about work, careers, AI, grades, rejection and opportunity. It’s an honest conversation about confidence, the gap between generations, and why businesses need to do more to open doors for the next generation. Key takeaways * Young people are anxious about future careers. * Rejection damages confidence earlier than we realise. * Many students need opportunity before they have experience. * Businesses can help through tasters, open days and placements. * AI is both exciting and unsettling for young people. * Grades matter, but they should not define someone’s future. * Investing in young people benefits everyone. Keywords Jessica Dunn, work experience, young people, next generation, careers, employability, AI, education, confidence, Birmingham, Wit + Grit, opportunity, youth voice, placements, business responsibility, future of work, social mobility. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Work Experience 00:55 Young People's Perspectives on Careers 02:18 Challenges Faced by Young People in the Job Market 04:25 The Role of Schools and Businesses 06:25 Future Aspirations and Advice for Peers 08:44 The Impact of Social Media on Young People 10:31 Parental Influence and Support 12:11 Conclusion and Reflections on Opportunities 13:47 Navigating Parental Relationships and Social Media 14:36 The Overwhelming Nature of Current Events 15:19 The Impact of AI on Education and Careers 17:57 Balancing AI Use and Critical Thinking in Youth 24:09 The Job Market and AI's Role in Youth Employment 27:21 Parenting in the Age of AI and Education 31:38 The Importance of Grades vs. Personal Growth

    36 min
  5. Ameesha Green: Everybody Should Name Their Teddies After Philosophers

    May 11

    Ameesha Green: Everybody Should Name Their Teddies After Philosophers

    Ameesha Green is the founder of The Book Shelf, a book shepherd, philosophy thinker, mentor and proudly neurodivergent entrepreneur. In this episode, we explore ADHD, business, creativity, AI, education, philosophy, children’s futures, writing, and why one-size-fits-all thinking simply does not work. From naming her childhood teddies after philosophers to building a publishing business, Ameesha shares a refreshingly honest view on how different minds work, why books still matter, and whether AI is helping us think better — or helping us avoid thinking altogether. Key takeaways * ADHD can be both a creative advantage and a practical challenge. * Self-awareness matters more than forcing yourself into broken systems. * One-size-fits-all education does not serve every child. * AI can be a sparring partner, not a replacement for thinking. * Books still have the power to pass wisdom between generations. * Entrepreneurship is rarely linear — sometimes you build by saying yes. * Writing can help turn ideas into impact. Keywords Ameesha Green, ADHD, neurodivergence, AI, creativity, philosophy, books, publishing, entrepreneurship, The Book Shelf, book shepherd, education, children’s future, critical thinking, Stoicism, business ownership, self-awareness, Wit + Grit. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Neurodivergence in Business 02:46 The Role of Stoicism in Entrepreneurship 05:03 Philosophy and Its Impact on Decision Making 07:35 The Importance of Open Conversations with Kids 10:33 Political Engagement and Community Involvement 13:18 The Power of Books to Change Lives 16:17 The Journey of Writing and Publishing Children's Books 25:33 A Meandering Journey to Business 28:56 Transitioning to Hybrid Publishing 30:49 Learning from Authors and Their Stories 33:03 Navigating Challenges as a Business Owner 36:03 The Importance of Side Hustles 38:10 Crafting Your Elevator Pitch 39:31 The Role of AI in Publishing 42:00 The Benefits of Writing 45:05 Reflections on Personal Growth 46:21 Wit and Grit in Business

    49 min
  6. Hannah Bailey: The Cost of Always Saying “I’m Fine”

    May 5

    Hannah Bailey: The Cost of Always Saying “I’m Fine”

    Former police officer Hannah Bailey spent years working in high-pressure frontline roles, telling everyone she was fine while quietly carrying trauma, stress and undiagnosed PTSD. In this powerful episode, Hannah shares how a cancer diagnosis brought unexpected relief because it meant she no longer had to go back to work, why real resilience is not the same as silence, and how she rebuilt her life through treatment, therapy, humour and a completely new understanding of wellbeing. This is a conversation about trauma, workplace culture, cancer, PTSD, leadership, laughter, and what it really means to be well long term. Key takeaways * Looking “fine” on paper can hide deep emotional and mental exhaustion. * High-pressure cultures can train people to stay silent until they break. * Real resilience is not invincibility; it is knowing when to ask for help. * Leaders need to notice changes in people, not just performance. * Humour and connection can help the brain feel safe again. * Wellbeing support must be proactive, genuine and led from the top. Keywords Mental health, PTSD, trauma, policing, cancer survivor, resilience, workplace wellbeing, burnout, leadership, psychological safety, therapy, BWRT, Blue Light Wellbeing, stress, high-pressure work, police officer, emotional health, workplace culture. Chapters List 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast Journey 00:20 The Relief of a Cancer Diagnosis 01:52 The Impact of Workplace Culture on Mental Health 04:21 The Struggles of a Police Officer 06:33 The Identity Crisis of a Police Officer 09:22 The Journey Through Cancer Treatment 11:47 The Role of Support Systems 14:06 Finding Hope in Alternative Treatments 16:51 The Power of Mindset and Resilience 19:00 The Importance of Long-term Wellbeing 24:39 Healing Through BWRT: A Personal Journey 29:14 Understanding Trauma: The Role of the Amygdala and Hippocampus 34:10 The State of Mental Health in Organisations 36:19 Recognising Symptoms of Mental Health Issues 42:12 Addressing Concerns: How to Approach Colleagues 45:23 Wit and Grit: The Power of Humour and Resilience

    51 min
  7. Potential and Power Skills with Kristie Brookes & Olivia Roden

    Apr 28

    Potential and Power Skills with Kristie Brookes & Olivia Roden

    The graduate job market has never been more competitive, with up to 150 applicants per role, but that doesn’t mean opportunity has disappeared. In this episode, we sit down with Kristie Brookes and Liv Roden from Aston University to unpack what it’s really like to be a student right now, and what employers might be getting wrong. We explore the growing gap between education and employment, why “entry-level” roles now expect experience, and how students can stand out in a world of AI-generated CVs and identical applications. From “power skills” and emotional intelligence to hiring for potential over perfection, this is a practical, honest conversation about the future of work - and how both students and employers need to adapt. If you’ve got kids heading into the world of work, or you’re hiring the next generation, this one matters. Key Takeaways The graduate market is tougher than ever — but opportunity still exists Differentiation is everything (and it’s not just about grades) Employers should hire for potential, not just experience AI is changing entry-level work, but human skills matter more than ever “Power skills” (leadership, AI, innovation, emotional intelligence) are the real advantage Students aren’t lazy - they’re navigating a completely different world Your personality, passion, and story are what set you apart Themes • Future of work • Early careers / graduate market • AI & employability • Emotional intelligence • Identity & confidence • Social mobility • Hiring & leadership Keywords graduate jobs, early careers, Aston University, employability, Gen Z workforce, hiring graduates, AI in recruitment, power skills, soft skills, student careers, internships UK, graduate market UK, career advice, emotional intelligence at work, leadership skills, entry level jobs UK Chapters 00:00 Meet the Employer Engagement Officers 01:40 Current Student Experience and Market Challenges 05:44 Understanding the Role of Employer Engagement Officers 08:56 Career Journeys of Kristie and Olivia 13:48 Aston University: Opportunities and Offerings 16:45 Power Skills and Student Preparedness 20:02 Perceptions of Young People in the Workforce 21:50 Emotional Intelligence in the Job Market 24:57 Demonstrating Passion and Personality 28:55 The Value of University Experience 33:10 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Career Paths

    36 min
  8. Lewis Matthews: Happiness Is a Choice (Even in Atlantic Storms)

    Apr 20

    Lewis Matthews: Happiness Is a Choice (Even in Atlantic Storms)

    Lewis Matthews has pushed himself to extremes - from international water polo to Ironmans, ultramarathons and rowing the Atlantic for 38 days. But this conversation isn’t just about endurance. It’s about what happens when life pushes back. Lewis opens up about losing his brother and his mom, how grief reshaped his perspective, and why success now looks very different. From “purposeful discomfort” to fatherhood, identity and resilience, this is a raw, honest conversation about what really matters, and how we carry life when it gets heavy. Key Takeaways • Happiness is a choice - even when life isn’t easy • Have a “why” - it gets you through the hardest moments • Purposeful discomfort builds resilience • Endurance teaches control - focus on what you can influence • Grief doesn’t go away - but it changes • Empathy often comes from pain • Have a “thing” - something that grounds you outside work and life stress • Success changes - especially when you become a parent • You don’t need to be the best - just keep learning and growing • Remember tomorrow - most things pass Keywords Lewis Matthews, rowing the Atlantic, endurance mindset, resilience, grief, loss, fatherhood, mental strength, stoicism, ultramarathon, Ironman, water polo, personal growth, emotional resilience, mindset, discipline, adversity, purpose, mental health, perspective, Wit and Grit podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Lewis Matthews' Background 00:55 20 Days into the Atlantic Row: Challenges and Mindset 02:09 Dealing with Storms and Ocean Conditions 03:49 Big Storms and Boat Spinning Crisis 06:01 Building Mental Fortitude and Stoic Principles 08:28 Lewis' Origin Story and Water Polo Journey 09:50 Transition from Water Polo to Endurance Sports 11:52 Lessons from Ultras and Ironmans 14:07 Why Endurance Challenges? The Mindset Behind the Why 20:26 Personal Losses and Grief: The Impact of Family Tragedy 24:56 Grief vs Physical Endurance: Comparing Challenges 30:40 Lessons from Grief and Moving Forward 32:37 Jiu Jitsu and Community as a Source of Resilience 36:36 Redefining Success and Priorities 38:09 Consciously Unlearning and Embracing New Identities 42:21 Rowing Record and Scenario Planning 44:38 Future Goals and Three-Year Vision 45:37 Wit and Grit: The Balance of Intelligence and Grit 47:14 Who Was Lewis Matthews? What Broke and What He Became

    50 min
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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
    41
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 PJ Ellis and Andy Dawson
  • Show Website
    Wit + Grit

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