AI Is Not to Blame: The Real Reason Jobs Are Vanishing episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 18, 2026 · 28 MIN

AI Is Not to Blame: The Real Reason Jobs Are Vanishing

from Population Next

The workplace landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by forces such as artificial intelligence, shifting generational dynamics, and evolving business strategies. In this episode, I sit down with Alex Randall Kittredge, an expert in human resources and the future of work, to discuss the broader implications of these transformations.Against the backdrop of anemic hiring and increasing automation across industries, we explore what’s driving these changes and what they mean for both employees and employers going forward. Alex explains that while AI is often cited as a reason for job cuts, the true culprit lies in broader economic shifts, corporate behavior, and changing labor market structures.We also explore the role of AI in workforce management and generational shifts, particularly how Gen Z’s work preferences are disrupting long-standing norms. Alex shares insights on the rise of the gig economy, the decline in employer loyalty, and the growing importance of work-life balance.You’ll learn- How AI is reshaping the labor market and business priorities- Why entry-level hiring is declining and its impact on the talent pipeline- What’s driving the shift to specialized workers and its impact on hiring- How employers’ treatment of employees as disposable assets harms both sides- What the financialization of wages means for job security and corporate culture- Why Gen Z values flexibility and career autonomy over traditional loyalty- How to adapt to the rise of side hustles and gig work- What employers must do to meet Gen Z’s demands and retain top talentSubscribe to Bradley’s Newsletter:Join (for free) the only newsletter breaking down global demographic trends into actionable strategies for your business and your community.Subscribe here → https://populationnext.substack.com/Order Bradley’s Book:The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny: https://a.co/d/gmG6t2PGet in Touch with Alex Randall Kittredge:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrandallkittredgeSubstack: https://alexrandallkittredge.substack.com/Get in Touch with Bradley Schurman: Substack: https://populationnext.substack.comWebsite: https://www.bradleyschurman.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradleyschurmanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradley.schurmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyschurman/Subscribe:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradleyschurman?sub_confirmation=1

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Feb 18, 2026

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AI Is Not to Blame: The Real Reason Jobs Are Vanishing

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