In this episode of Malestrum, Barry and Griffin tackle one of the most pressing questions facing graduates today: where are the jobs?
Barry reflects on his own career path in the 1970s, when long-term employment at major corporations often meant stability, pensions, and predictable growth. He contrasts that with Griffin’s experience graduating into a volatile, post-pandemic economy shaped by AI, contract labor, mergers, and shifting political winds.
Together, they examine how the job market has changed from linear corporate ladders to today’s gig-driven, uncertain environment. Griffin shares insights from his peers and his own journey in computer science, exploring the impact of AI on entry-level roles, the decline of corporate loyalty, and the rise of “identity capital” as a way forward. The conversation also dives into broader frameworks such as the Japanese concept of Ikigai and Meg Jay’s The Defining Decade while questioning what truly makes work meaningful, including David Graeber’s provocative idea of “bullshit jobs.”
The discussion closes with practical wisdom: the enduring value of communication, storytelling, and networking in building a career, even in an era of disruption.
Summary:
This episode bridges Boomer and Gen Z perspectives on the changing job market, highlighting both the risks and opportunities ahead. From AI disruption to the rise of contract work, Barry and Griffin explore how young men and all workers can build resilience, identity capital, and purpose in uncertain times.
