What’s the difference between digital literacy and AI literacy—and why does it matter for the future of work?

In this episode, Corey sits down with Nancy Mwirotsi, founder of Pi515, to break down how technology is shaping economic mobility for youth. They explore why basic digital skills are still missing, how AI tools are changing critical thinking, and what it takes to prepare the next generation for real opportunities.

Nancy shares her journey building Pi515 to support underserved and refugee youth through tech education. She also explains how exposure, mentorship, and hands-on learning can change a child’s trajectory.

If you care about education, workforce development, or closing opportunity gaps, this conversation will challenge how you think about tech and youth development.

Show Notes

What you’ll learn:

The difference between digital literacy and AI literacy
Why many students still lack basic tech skills
How AI tools can weaken or strengthen critical thinking
The role of mentorship in shaping career paths
How tech access impacts economic mobility
Why youth need exposure to real-world opportunities
The risks of over-relying on AI tools
How to prepare kids for the future of work

Key Moments:

00:00 – Introduction to Nancy and Pi515
03:00 – How Pi515 started and supporting refugee youth
05:30 – Why exposure shapes career possibilities
09:00 – Digital literacy vs AI literacy explained
13:00 – The danger of overusing AI tools
17:00 – Skills youth need for future jobs
20:00 – AI risks: misinformation and deepfakes
22:30 – How parents and educators can guide kids
27:00 – Best AI tools and how to use them wisely
32:00 – Youth, entrepreneurship, and making money with AI
34:00 – Why talent leaves cities like Des Moines
40:00 – Building innovation ecosystems for the future

Notable Quotes:

“Kids cannot be what they don’t see.”
“Digital literacy is basic skills. AI literacy is understanding the tool, the ethics, and the impact.”
“You can’t let the tool do the thinking for you.”
“We need to empower young people as leaders, not just learners.”

Resources & Links:

Pi515: https://pi515.org

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