Episodes
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What happens when you spend decades building a successful career before finally understanding how your mind really works?
In this episode of Wit + Grit, leadership consultant and soon-to-be-published-author Damian Kirk shares the life-changing impact of receiving an ADHD and dyslexia diagnosis at the age of 51. What followed wasn’t limitation, it was liberation.
Together, we explore why self-awareness is the foundation of great leadership, why we’re making work far more complicated than it needs to be, and what businesses can do to create environments where people genuinely thrive.
From accountability over hierarchy, to AI, coaching, preparing young people for work and designing organisations for success, this is an honest conversation about leading with authenticity and building workplaces that bring out the best in people.
Whether you’re a leader, a parent, a mentor or simply someone trying to understand yourself a little better, this episode is packed with practical insights you’ll take away long after the conversation ends.
Sometimes the biggest breakthrough isn’t changing your career. It’s finally understanding yourself.
Key Takeaways
* Self-awareness is one of the greatest leadership advantages you’ll ever develop.
* A diagnosis doesn’t define you - it helps you understand your strengths.
* Different thinking isn’t a weakness; it can become your greatest asset.
* Great leaders create space for others to succeed rather than having all the answers.
* Simplicity beats complexity in almost every organisation.
* Accountability creates ownership; hierarchy often creates barriers.
* AI won’t replace great leaders - but it may expose poor ones.
* Coaching is one of the most valuable life skills anyone can learn.
* Young people need more real-world experience, mentors and opportunities to explore.
* Success rarely happens by accident - it is designed.
Keywords
Damian Kirk, ADHD, Dyslexia, ADHD diagnosis, neurodiversity, leadership podcast, leadership development, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, coaching, accountability, organisational culture, AI in business, future of work, workplace leadership, business transformation, leadership consultant, career development, mentoring, Wit and Grit podcast, young people, work experience, success by design, leadership mindset, authentic leadership, business growth, employee engagement, change management
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Neurodiversity: A Personal Journey
07:16 Transforming Leadership Through Self-Awareness
13:12 Preparing the Next Generation for the Workforce
20:09 Harnessing AI for Future Opportunities
21:19 The Power of AI as a Capability
22:58 Understanding Energy Costs and Their Complexity
25:30 AI's Impact on Leadership and Management
28:53 The Pinnacle Moment: Self-Awareness in Leadership
31:13 Advice for Young Professionals and Future Aspirations
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Gabriel Imevbore joins us to share his journey from growing up in Erdington, Birmingham, experiencing family breakdown and homelessness at 19, to becoming the youngest trustee in YMCA Heart of England’s 180-year history.
In this good-old-heart-to-heart conversation, Gabriel talks about ambition, faith, entrepreneurship, Birmingham, fatherhood, opportunity, social mobility and why your circumstances may shape your opening chapter - but they don’t have to write the ending.
Key takeaways
Your story is shaped by what you choose to do next.
Young people need opportunity, not judgement.
Birmingham has huge entrepreneurial talent that needs backing.
Leaders must stay close to the ground level.
Parents should respect the inspiration behind a child’s dreams.
Unconventional thinkers need space to thrive.
Success is health, family, purpose and giving back.
Representation matters - but so does opening doors for others.
KeywordsGabriel Imevbore, Wit and Grit, Birmingham, YMCA, homelessness, entrepreneurship, social mobility, young leaders, resilience, Birmingham business, opportunity, youth employment, leadership, community, personal story, Future Faces, National Grid, UpStride, AI, fatherhood, purpose, ambition.
00:00 Gabriel's Early Life and Ambitions
01:36 Challenges and Turning Points
03:57 The Role of Education and Mentorship
07:27 Finding Opportunities and Building a Network
10:14 Community Impact and Giving Back
11:51 Leadership and Ground-Level Engagement
14:49 Pathways to Progress and Social Mobility
16:09 Reflections on Talent Recognition and Future Aspirations
16:38 Bridging Generational Gaps
21:24 Entrepreneurial Journey and Community Impact
23:18 Personal Growth and Family Dynamics
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Missing episodes?
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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In Episode 32 of Wit + Grit, we are joined by Marcus Dimbleby - former Royal Air Force aerospace battle manager turned leadership and critical thinking specialist.
From the military to major corporate transformation, Marcus shares what he’s learned about leadership, human behaviour and why so many organisations are still getting it wrong.
This is a wide-ranging conversation covering disengaged workforces, the dangers of promoting people without training them, why young talent is leaving organisations so quickly, and how leaders can unlock the capability already sitting inside their teams.
Marcus also breaks down critical thinking, red teaming, adaptive leadership, shadow boards, and why AI is only useful when paired with human judgement.
There’s loads here for leaders, parents and anyone thinking about how we prepare the next generation for a world that’s moving fast.
Key takeaways
• Most leaders are promoted without being trained to lead.
• Only 21% of the workforce is engaged.
• Leaders don’t need to do it all themselves.
• Slow down to speed up.
• Critical thinking is not automatic — it has to be deliberately applied.
• Every kid is a natural red teamer until the system squeezes it out of them.
• Diversity of thought is the diversity that unlocks performance.
• Young talent leaves when you recruit them for fresh thinking but don’t let them use it.
• A group of high performers is not automatically a team.
• Shadow boards are one of the smartest ways to bridge generations.
• AI is a tool, not the answer.
• The real future is AI plus collective intelligence.
• What got you here won’t keep you here.
Keywords
Marcus Dimbleby, leadership, critical thinking, red teaming, adaptive leadership, workforce engagement, Gen Z, parenting, AI, collective intelligence, shadow boards, team dynamics, military leadership, Royal Air Force, aerospace battle manager, business transformation, disengaged employees, innovation, future of work, human skills, opportunity, Wit and Grit podcast
Chapters List
00:00 Introduction to Marcus Dimbleby
02:45 Leadership Challenges in the Modern Workplace
05:16 The Importance of Critical Thinking
08:21 Red Teaming and Its Applications
11:33 The Role of Parents in Fostering Critical Thinking
14:24 The Disconnect Between Leadership and Talent
17:14 Navigating Change in Organizations
20:18 The Need for Adaptive Leadership
23:09 Understanding the Real Problems in Organizations
31:59 Unveiling Leadership Challenges
34:20 The Importance of Tailored Solutions
36:31 The Role of Shadow Boards in Leadership
37:21 Navigating Military Insights and Youth Engagement
46:07 The Impact of AI on Leadership
53:44 Advice for the Next Generation
01:01:50 outro1.mp3
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In Episode 31 of Wit + Grit, we are joined by BBC comedy writer James Cary - the man behind episodes of Miranda, Citizen Khan, My Family and Bluestone 42.
But this conversation goes well beyond sitcoms.
James opens up about the constant rejection that comes with writing, even when you’re “successful”, what working in comedy has taught him about teams, why authenticity matters more than trying to be funny, and how character often counts for more than qualifications.
There’s also brilliant insight on leadership, AI, creativity, criticism, resilience, and why young people need to get better at looking people in the eye.
Funny, thoughtful and surprisingly practical, this is a conversation about writing, work, identity and the grit it takes to keep showing up.
Key takeaways
Rejection never really stops.
Failure is not just possible - it’s essential.
You want to find out what doesn’t work early, not when it’s too late.
Be interested in the thing, not yourself.
Your limitations can become your strengths.
Humour is high risk, but authenticity isn’t.
Teams work best when people care about different things.
Different motivations can be a strength, not a weakness.
AI is a tool, not a brain.
Character matters more than credentials.
Keywords
James Cary, BBC comedy writer, Miranda writer, Citizen Khan writer, My Family, Bluestone 42, sitcom writing, rejection, resilience, humour, leadership, teams, authenticity, AI and creativity, storytelling, critical thinking, character, human skills, communication, writing career, comedy writer podcast, Wit and Grit podcast
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to James Carey
00:48 The Journey into Comedy Writing
02:16 Pathways into Comedy and Early Experiences
04:36 The Role of Management Consultants in Comedy
07:10 The Intersection of Theology and Comedy
10:03 The Stand-Up Theologian
10:35 Writing and Team Dynamics in Comedy
13:10 Problem Solving on Set
15:57 Navigating Egos in the Creative Process
19:59 The Importance of Writing in Today's World
21:21 The Impact of Literature on Young Minds
22:48 The Challenges of Writing and Education
25:15 Embracing Failure in Creative Pursuits
28:20 The Role of Humor in Leadership
32:57 Navigating AI in Creative Processes
35:58 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
38:47 Character Over Qualifications in Success
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What happens when you’re trying to perform at work while also being a present, patient and emotionally available parent at home?
In Episode 30, we sit down with Natalie Costa to explore emotional fitness in families, schools and workplaces. Natalie shares her mission to help raise a generation of connected humans by supporting the adults around them - parents, teachers and leaders alike.
From childhood anxiety and classroom breakthroughs to parental guilt, emotional regulation and the pressure modern families face, this is a thoughtful, practical and deeply human conversation about what children really need, what parents are carrying, and how workplaces can better support the people raising the next generation.
It’s an episode about pressure, repair, resilience and the courage to stay steady when life feels anything but.
Key themesEmotional fitness in children and adultsParenting under pressureChildhood anxiety and self-beliefNeuroplasticity and changing old patternsParent guilt and the “mental load”Why connection matters more than everHow leaders can better support working parents
Key takeawaysChildren need adults to be their substitute prefrontal cortexThere is only room for one adult in the parent-child relationshipYou can’t parent perfectly, but you can repairEmotional regulation is a skill, not a personality traitNeuroplasticity means we can build new emotional habits at any ageModern parenting is harder because many families are raising children without a villageConnection with children often starts by taking an interest in their worldGreat leadership at work starts with seeing the human behind the behaviourSupporting parents at work is not a perk — it’s a culture and performance issue
Pull quotes / soundbites“We are more connected than ever before, but more emotionally disconnected than ever before.”“We need to support the people raising the next generation.”“There’s only space for one adult in the relationship — and it’s not your child.”“You can’t get it wrong if you are repairing and taking ownership.”“Neuroplasticity is the muscle of our mind.”“What are the keys to your kid’s kingdom?”“Connect before you correct.”“We’re all big kids walking around trying to run companies.”“A lot of guilt is really just being pulled between things we value.”
Suggested chapter titles00:00 – Welcome to Episode 3000:57 – Natalie’s mission: raising connected humans02:34 – From teaching to emotional fitness06:16 – The classroom moment that changed everything09:16 – Teaching kids what to do with big feelings14:17 – Why the work has to include parents17:25 – Old stories, childhood beliefs and change21:46 – What neuroplasticity actually means25:35 – Is it harder than ever to be a parent?27:52 – Simple ways to reconnect with your kids31:31 – What workplace support for parents should look like35:58 – Does the work start with children or adults?40:22 – Emotional fitness and sitting with discomfort45:14 – What to do at 2am when your mind won’t stop48:06 – Progressive leadership for working parents51:16 – Final takeaways
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After 28 episodes, a live event, and a growing Wit + Grit community, we sit down for a proper catch-up.
This one is honest, reflective and full of the stuff that sits behind the scenes - what we’ve learned, what’s surprised us, what we’re building, and why Wit + Grit is starting to feel like something much bigger than a podcast.
We talk about opportunity, identity, grief, ambition, structure, startup energy, and the importance of creating real conversations in a noisy world.
If you’ve ever started something, doubted yourself, or wondered whether to just press go, this one’s for you. Bring it on.
Key Takeaways
Press go first, learn later.
Opportunity changes everything.
You don’t need all the answers to start.
Identity matters.
Human connection is becoming more valuable, not less.
Structure matters when things start working.
Community compounds.
Success looks different now.
Keywords
Wit and Grit, PJ Ellis, Andy Dawson, Birmingham podcast, business podcast UK, human skills, opportunity, personal growth, startup journey, live testing, podcast alumni, community building, leadership, resilience, identity, grief, ambition, entrepreneurship, confidence, AI and identity, young people, future of work, Birmingham business, talent pipeline, real conversations
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Peaky Blinders Premiere
02:44 The Growth of the Podcast and Its Impact
05:21 Personal Journeys and Backgrounds
07:49 Lessons Learned and Insights from the Podcast
10:13 Opportunities and Future Directions
12:51 The Importance of Structure and Discipline
15:31 Looking Ahead: Technology and Growth
18:26 Ambition and Growth in Podcasting
20:32 Creating Opportunities for Young People
22:08 Navigating Challenges in Today's World
24:33 The Impact of Technology on Youth
27:42 Finding Balance in a Chaotic World
31:18 Measuring Success and Impact
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Hannah Tyers is one of the world’s youngest female chartered surveyors - but her real story sits under the surface.
At 21 years of age, Hannah lost her mum to alcoholism. Her journey has forced Hannah to grow up fast, build resilience early, and learn emotional skills most of us were never taught.
In this episode, Hannah shares what grief taught her about life moving on, why “success” can feel complicated, and how those late-night Googles for support became the spark for Soulful Co - a platform designed to help people find the right help faster and feel less alone in the process.
We get into confidence vs the “self-confidence mask”, creating spaces where teenagers actually talk, why rest is a non-negotiable (especially for founders), and what it really takes to choose who you want to be - rather than living as a victim of circumstance.
Key takeaways
• Life moves on after grief - you grow into it.
• Success can feel hollow if you’ve got no one to tell.
• The feeling of “I’m not alone” is sometimes the first step to healing.
• Active listening is simple… and strangely hard.
• Teenagers don’t open up on demand - they open up in motion.
• Rest is a strategy, not a reward (especially for founders).
• You learn most at the edge of the unknown.
• If not now, when? If not you, who?
Chapters
00:00 – Meet Hannah Tyers (the “iceberg” intro)
02:00 – Youngest chartered surveyor + the story underneath
04:30 – 18-year-old Hannah in a male-dominated industry
07:00 – Losing her mum mid-studies + “life moves on”
09:00 – The chartership moment + “success can feel empty”
11:20 – Alcoholism, childhood, and growing up fast
14:30 – Why most adults don’t talk about feelings
16:00 – How to actually get teenagers to talk
17:30 – What Soulful is and why it exists
20:50 – Redefining success (time, family, purpose)
23:00 – Her brother, men in construction, and opening up
26:00 – Entrepreneurship: “press go, learn on the way”
28:45 – Burnout prevention + rest as a non-negotiable
32:10 – How Soulful works (free platform + events + business offer)
36:20 – Making wellbeing “not embarrassing” for young men
40:00 – If not now, when? If not me, who?
41:35 – One small moment for anyone overwhelmed
42:25 – Choosing who you want to be (not victimhood)
44:30 – Rapid-fire takeaways + close
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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
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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
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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
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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?
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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.
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Keywords:
AI, School of Code, lifelong learning, technology, education, future of work
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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
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Summary
In 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 dickhead 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
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