there will be a drought of genuinely good talent in the industry.

You’re exactly right, and there’s actually already such a drought. We had this same conversation 15 years ago and it doesn’t feel like we’ve made much progress.

has to change imo, the path should become clearer than telling everyone to get 5 years of experience then come back when they’re ready.

Absolutely, it must change. We need to find ways to do better.