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