1. Fat layer of humans

The Economist's Boss Class podcast explores the impact of generative AI on the workplace, questioning whether AI will transform white-collar work or if its power is overstated. The host, Andrew Palmer, speaks with Tom Blomfield from Y Combinator, who believes AI will automate vast portions of software engineering and knowledge-based work, potentially leading to a much thinner layer of human oversight. Economist tech editor Ludwig Siegler discusses the "jagged frontier" of AI, noting its strengths and weaknesses and the common feeling of disappointment when engaging with it. Ethan Malek from Wharton advises listeners to experiment with AI in every part of their job to find its frontier and to focus on capacity gain rather than cost-cutting when implementing AI in organizations. Palmer also recounts his own experiment using AI to write a parody of a brainstorming meeting, with surprising results.