36 minutes | Wednesday, 20 May 2026
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.KeywordsJessica 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Work Experience00:55 Young People's Perspectives on Careers02:18 Challenges Faced by Young People in the Job Market04:25 The Role of Schools and Businesses06:25 Future Aspirations and Advice for Peers08:44 The Impact of Social Media on Young People10:31 Parental Influence and Support12:11 Conclusion and Reflections on Opportunities13:47 Navigating Parental Relationships and Social Media14:36 The Overwhelming Nature of Current Events15:19 The Impact of AI on Education and Careers17:57 Balancing AI Use and Critical Thinking in Youth24:09 The Job Market and AI's Role in Youth Employment27:21 Parenting in the Age of AI and Education31:38 The Importance of Grades vs. Personal Growth