A teen who can’t read well isn’t just “behind in English” they’re locked out of vocabulary that fuels confidence, self expression, and real opportunity. That’s why this conversation with UK teen success coach and Switched On founder Claire Ford goes straight at the uncomfortable question: what are schools actually producing when reading for pleasure is at a 20 year low and students keep getting pushed forward without core literacy skills?We dig into what literacy gaps look like in real life: misunderstood instructions, avoided writing, shaky resumes, and the quiet anxiety that comes from knowing you can’t communicate clearly in a team. Claire connects the dots between reading comprehension and the so called soft skills employers want most, including critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication. We also talk about AI and why it doesn’t remove the need for literacy at all. If you can’t check, edit, and judge what a tool produces, you’re outsourcing your agency.We zoom out to the bigger solution too. Beyond curriculum debates, we need adults to model language again through conversations, stories, visible reading, and simple daily practice that makes words feel useful and powerful. If you care about teen literacy, education reform, student success, and future ready skills, this one will stay with you. Subscribe, share this with a parent or educator, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.🔗 Connect with Clare Ford:https://www.switchedonglobal.com/Send us an anonymous text messageSupport the showEvery episode brings global perspectives and leadership insights. Click on the "Support the show" link above and keep the mission alive!Search MindShift Power Podcast buy topic here: https://www.fatimabey.com/podcast-searchExplore more about my work beyond podcasting, check out the blog, share your thoughts, or become a guest! https://www.FatimaBey.comI also have another podcast called The MindShifter Audio Blog!Experience my written words like never before, as I personally narrate my blogs for a truly engaging audio journey. https://www.fatimabey.com/audioblogJoin the MindShift Universe—where real conversations spark transformation! Follow me on social media: https://www.fatimabey.com/#1035650492Thank you for listening!