ASA Podcast: The Shifting Job Market - Boomers, Gen X, and What’s Next

In Season 5, Episode 27 of Keeping it Real with Dr. Kuehl, ASA Chief Economist Dr. Chris Kuehl returns with his weekly economic update to discuss the evolving landscape of employment in the United States. Over the brief but insightful 7:57-minute episode, Dr. Kuehl explores why counting jobs is more complicated than it appears and why some roles—particularly in the gig economy—often go under the radar. He examines how part-time and self-employed workers challenge traditional employment metrics and highlights how companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash may skew perceptions of the workforce because many of their workers answer “no” when asked if they are employed.

Dr. Kuehl also delves into the impact of technology and AI on hiring trends, questioning whether workforce training is keeping pace with these changes. He addresses the ongoing labor shortage and the generational shifts affecting retirement patterns, noting that while Baby Boomers are delaying retirement, many Gen Xers are leaving the workforce sooner than expected. These shifts raise questions about where the next generation of workers will come from and whether the country is adequately preparing for the workforce of the future.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Kuehl emphasizes the long-term challenges facing employment and training in the U.S., suggesting that these labor issues are likely to persist for years to come. Listeners are encouraged to engage directly with the podcast by submitting questions or topics for future discussion via email, making this episode not just an update but also an invitation to participate in shaping the conversation around the nation’s workforce.

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