Wit + Grit

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 takeawaysRejection 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.KeywordsJames 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 podcastChapters00:00 Introduction to James Carey00:48 The Journey into Comedy Writing02:16 Pathways into Comedy and Early Experiences04:36 The Role of Management Consultants in Comedy07:10 The Intersection of Theology and Comedy10:03 The Stand-Up Theologian10:35 Writing and Team Dynamics in Comedy13:10 Problem Solving on Set15:57 Navigating Egos in the Creative Process19:59 The Importance of Writing in Today's World21:21 The Impact of Literature on Young Minds22:48 The Challenges of Writing and Education25:15 Embracing Failure in Creative Pursuits28:20 The Role of Humor in Leadership32:57 Navigating AI in Creative Processes35:58 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome38:47 Character Over Qualifications in Success

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 parentsKey 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 issuePull 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

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 TakeawaysPress 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.KeywordsWit 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 conversationsChapters00:00 Introduction and Peaky Blinders Premiere02:44 The Growth of the Podcast and Its Impact05:21 Personal Journeys and Backgrounds07:49 Lessons Learned and Insights from the Podcast10:13 Opportunities and Future Directions12:51 The Importance of Structure and Discipline15:31 Looking Ahead: Technology and Growth18:26 Ambition and Growth in Podcasting20:32 Creating Opportunities for Young People22:08 Navigating Challenges in Today's World24:33 The Impact of Technology on Youth27:42 Finding Balance in a Chaotic World31:18 Measuring Success and Impact

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?Chapters00:00 – Meet Hannah Tyers (the “iceberg” intro)02:00 – Youngest chartered surveyor + the story underneath04:30 – 18-year-old Hannah in a male-dominated industry07:00 – Losing her mum mid-studies + “life moves on”09:00 – The chartership moment + “success can feel empty”11:20 – Alcoholism, childhood, and growing up fast14:30 – Why most adults don’t talk about feelings16:00 – How to actually get teenagers to talk17:30 – What Soulful is and why it exists20:50 – Redefining success (time, family, purpose)23:00 – Her brother, men in construction, and opening up26:00 – Entrepreneurship: “press go, learn on the way”28:45 – Burnout prevention + rest as a non-negotiable32:10 – How Soulful works (free platform + events + business offer)36:20 – Making wellbeing “not embarrassing” for young men40:00 – If not now, when? If not me, who?41:35 – One small moment for anyone overwhelmed42:25 – Choosing who you want to be (not victimhood)44:30 – Rapid-fire takeaways + close

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 youKeywordsDaniel 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 menChapters00:00 – The “iOS Update”02:00 – Shedding the story that built you05:30 – Why behavioural change takes longer than you think09:30 – The power of male support networks13:00 – 100 talks in 20 days: the school tour16:30 – The student who couldn’t name one good thing about himself20:00 – What to tell a 15-year-old finding his way22:00 – Working with kids vs corporates24:00 – “Kids need to toughen up” — response to leaders30:00 – Social media, AI & parenting in 202539:00 – Filling your own cup44:00 – Daniel’s spoken word: Reflections46:00 – What’s next? LifeX & the HOPE program50:00 – Final takeaways

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, opportunityChapters00:00 Introduction to Joel Blake01:57 Joel's Upbringing and Early Aspirations06:55 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience12:10 Career Journey at Wilkes16:32 Navigating Change in the Legal Profession21:14 Building Confidence and Professional Growth24:14 Fostering Collaboration Across Generations25:30 Unveiling Surprising Aspects of Personal Growth27:00 The Power of Authentic Networking30:09 Pride in Regional Development34:13 Vision for the Future: Inspiring the Next Generation36:00 Empowering Young Professionals through Future Faces38:31 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Authenticity40:43 Encouragement for the Underestimated43:36 Setting Ambitious Goals for 2026

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.TakeawaysDreams 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Lisa Butler's Journey02:50 Overcoming Early Challenges and Building Resilience05:45 Military Career and Lessons Learned08:57 Transitioning to Coaching and Leadership11:54 The Importance of Courage in Today's World14:42 Recognising and Supporting Others in Need26:51 Navigating the 'I'm Fine' Culture29:20 Inner Child Work and Rebuilding Confidence31:57 Transforming Limiting Beliefs35:29 The Importance of Values and Boundaries42:12 Creating Community and Courage50:05 Empowering Responses to Demeaning Language

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?-----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.-----Keywords:AI, School of Code, lifelong learning, technology, education, future of work-----Chapters:00:52 Chris Meah's Journey into AI05:55 Understanding AI: What It Is and Isn't09:08 The Optimism and Pessimism of AI18:13 The Power Dynamics of AI Technology22:17 Encouraging AI Adoption in Businesses25:28 The Importance of Lifelong Learning33:01 The Importance of Hardship in Childhood34:44 Creating a Safe Learning Environment38:55 AI's Role in Human Development40:57 Business Innovation and Exploration47:54 The Future of AI and Humanity

SummaryIn 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, resilienceTakeawaysGood 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 Burrell03:15 Life After Professional Sport08:30 Survival Mode: The Transition Challenge15:11 Asking for Help: Breaking Down Barriers21:06 What Do I Have to Offer?30:22 Building High-Performing Teams32:56 Building a Culture of Accountability34:48 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership37:30 Navigating Racism in Sports42:28 The Impact of Philanthropy and Community Work50:23 Transformative Power of Sport57:04 Inspiring the Next Generation

In this reflective episode, PJ and Andy pause to mark a milestone: 21 episodes down.What started in June 2025 with a simple decision - “let’s just press go” - has become a powerful lesson in momentum, confidence, and learning through action.They explore why perfection is often the enemy of progress, how confidence is built through doing (not thinking), and why most people underestimate the value of simply staying in the game.From Roger Federer winning just 53% of the points he ever played, to the importance of lead vs lag measures, mental fitness, trusting your gut, and protecting your time - this conversation is a grounded, honest look at what really moves things forward.This isn’t a how-to episode. It’s a perspective shift.A reminder that clarity can come after motion - not before it.------KEY TAKEAWAYS1️⃣ Momentum creates clarity - not the other way aroundWaiting to feel “ready” keeps most people stuck. Pressing go creates feedback, confidence, and direction you can’t think your way into.2️⃣ You’ve got to be able to fail to winRoger Federer won just 53% of the points he ever played. The difference wasn’t perfection - it was his ability to reset and play the next point.3️⃣ Confidence is evidence-basedReal confidence doesn’t come from affirmations.It comes from giving the world irrefutable proof that you are who you say you are — by showing up and doing the work.4️⃣ Consistency beats intensitySome days are 100%.Some days are 5%.Doing something keeps momentum alive — and momentum compounds.5️⃣ Lead measures matter more than money (early on)Downloads, conversations, invitations, engagement, feedback - these are signs you’re moving in the right direction long before revenue appears.6️⃣ Protect your time like it’s your most valuable assetBecause it is.Time is often given away to people, jobs and tasks that don’t serve us - and we rarely get it back.7️⃣ Don’t do it aloneIdeas grow faster - and more safely - when shared. Having someone alongside you helps challenge blind spots, build belief, and avoid isolation.🎯 WHO THIS EPISODE IS FOR • Anyone sitting on an idea • Founders and creators early in the journey • People struggling with confidence or overthinking • Anyone who feels stuck waiting for “the right time” • Those navigating change without a clear rulebook🧠 CORE THEMES • Pressing go • Momentum vs perfection • Confidence through action • Failure and resilience • Mental fitness • Trusting your gut • Time, energy and priorities • Learning on the jobChapters00:00 Setting the Stage: The Journey Begins02:42 Momentum and Growth: The Power of Starting05:21 Learning Through Experience: The Value of Failure08:17 Defining Success: Beyond Financial Metrics11:10 Time Management: Prioritizing What Matters14:34 Trusting Your Gut: Navigating Risks in Business17:15 The Importance of Community and Feedback20:08 Physical and Mental Fitness: Foundations for Success22:57 Iterating and Evolving: What’s Next for the Podcast?25:48 Final Thoughts: Encouragement for Aspiring Creators

SummaryIn this episode, siblings Peggy and Will Crawford discuss their unique career paths and shared experiences. Peggy, a data analyst and semi-pro poker player, shares insights into the poker world and her journey in content creation. Will, founder of Quiet Note, talks about integrating mindfulness and music to improve mental wellbeing. They explore the challenges and rewards of their respective fields, emphasising resilience, passion, and the importance of mental health. The conversation also touches on their supportive sibling relationship and future aspirations.Let's get into it.Keywordssiblings, poker, mindfulness, mental wellbeing, content creation, resilience, passion, mental health, Quietnote, career pathsTakeawaysPeggy Crawford is a data analyst and poker player.Will founded Quiet Note, focusing on mindfulness and music.Resilience and passion are key to success.Mental health is a priority for both siblings.Peggy shares insights into the poker world.Will integrates music and mindfulness for wellbeing.The siblings support each other's careers.Future aspirations include expanding their ventures.They emphasise the importance of mental health.The conversation highlights their unique career paths.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Crawfords01:21 Peggy's Journey in Poker and Data Analysis03:51 Will's Mindfulness and Music Business06:53 Daily Routines and Work-Life Balance09:49 Innovative Approaches to Mental Health12:36 Sibling Dynamics and Collaboration15:22 The Intersection of Poker and Strategy18:06 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs20:38 Mindset and Resilience in Business23:25 The Importance of Patience and Purpose28:39 Rituals and Habits for Grounding32:33 Mindfulness in Poker and Life36:05 Building Community Through Poker39:52 Future Aspirations in Poker and Business44:21 Advice for the Next Generation