Hello dear listeners,

In this episode, we talked with Ashley Fell, a social researcher, TEDx speaker, and the Director of Advisory at McCrindle, an Australian-based research firm renowned for its work on generational trends. Ashley is also the author of two insightful books: Work Wellbeing and Generation Alpha, and she hosts The Future Report podcast.

Together, we explored the unique characteristics of Generation Z and Generation Alpha—two generations growing up in a world that is non-linear, visual, digital, and virtual. Ashley also explained how global events like 9/11 and the pandemic, have deeply influenced how these generations see the world, learn, and relate to others.

One key takeaway? These generations need trustworthy adults more than ever. In a noisy, uncertain world, full with information and misinformation, the role of youth workers, educators, and caring adults is critical. Ashley shared how we can support young people by encouraging them, equipping them, and entrusting them with opportunities and responsibilities that build confidence and agency.

We also talked about how Gen Z and Gen Alpha are deeply concerned with the environment. They’re connected, cause-driven, and eager to contribute. But to do so meaningfully, they need learning environments that make space for authentic connection, autonomy, and safety.

Ashley brought fresh insights into how technology is shaping learning behaviours – often in unexpected ways – and challenged us to think about how we can design balanced learning spaces that resonate with their digital realities while still offering opportunities for meaningful human connections.

Books mentioned in the episode:

• Work Wellbeing Book by Ashley Fell and Mark McCrindle
• Generation Alpha Book by Ashley Fell and Mark McCrindle
• Generation Alpha Website
• Future Report podcast

For any ideas, comments, or suggestions, feel free to email us at [email protected].

This episode is part of the Inception of Learning project, funded by the Erasmus+ Youth Programme, which supports youth workers, trainers, and educators in delivering high-quality learning experiences for young people in the context of Generation Z and Generation Alpha.

#YouthWork #GenerationAlpha #GenerationZ #DigitalYouth #LearningDesign #McCrindleResearch