{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/65575fc75c5f6900126e6888/6ad9c9fc1eb6e512e59fee04?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Closing the NextGen Gap","description":"<p>NextGens are ready to grow, and they want to build their careers within our industry. But in return, they expect organisations to genuinely invest in them.</p><p>In this episode, Allyson and Sarah unpack brand-new research from the LEAD Network on NextGen talent, highlighting the gap between high ambition and a perceived lack of career progression. They explore what younger employees say they actually need to thrive, while confronting the biases and ageism that still dictate who gets opportunity. </p><p><br></p><p>Plus, employer branding expert Mariya Ilieva joins the conversation to share practical insights from Lidl Bulgaria, revealing how they tackle talent shortages through creative apprenticeships, youth engagement initiatives, and early career mentoring.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Read the full report:</strong> <a href=\"https://theleadnetwork.net/publications/nextgen-research-2026-at-the-intersection-of-gender-and-generation/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">LEAD Network NextGen Research 2026: At the Intersection of Gender and Generation</a></p><p><br></p><p>Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten</p>","author_name":"LEAD Network"}