“Entitled” has become the go-to word for an entire generation. Cass Champion isn't so sure it's fair — or useful.
On episode 12 of the SHFT Pod, Dan and Erin sat down with Cass — founder of My First Job — to challenge the lazy stereotypes about Gen Z and ask a more honest question: are they entitled, or just unprepared?
Entitled, or just unprepared?
It's easy to write young workers off as difficult, distracted or expecting too much too soon. But Cass argues that a lot of what looks like entitlement is actually a lack of preparation — not a character flaw, but a gap no one has bothered to fill. Blaming the generation is simple. Understanding what they're actually missing is far more useful.
The gaps no one prepares them for
School teaches plenty, but rarely the practical stuff that makes those first months of work survivable. As Cass explains on the episode, many young people step into the workforce without basic workplace confidence, without knowing how to communicate professionally, and with no real understanding of things like superannuation or financial literacy. These aren't signs of a lazy generation — they're the predictable result of never being taught.
What this means for leaders
For employers, this is either a headache or an opportunity. The leaders who understand the gap can coach young talent through it and build loyal, capable team members. The ones who reach for “entitled” and move on miss out on a huge pool of potential. It's a mindset shift that lines up neatly with what SHFT is all about — leading people well, not just managing them.
My First Job: closing the gap
This is the exact problem Cass built My First Job to solve. It's the only platform in Australia designed specifically for 13 to 24 year olds taking their first step into work — connecting them with jobs that suit their age, location and availability, and giving them the tools and support to apply and start with confidence. It's part job board, part launchpad, aimed at setting young people up properly rather than leaving them to sink or swim.
Hear the full conversation
Whether you lead a team, employ young people, or have a teenager about to enter the workforce, this one's worth your time. Watch or listen to Cass Champion's SHFT Pod episode, and take a look at what My First Job is building.
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