From Live Testing to the Real Thing

Wit + Grit

Monday, 9 March 2026 - 36 minutes

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