Is China’s population decline the next big global disruptor? In today’s episode, we explore how China’s aging population and collapsing birth rate are reshaping its future and the world economy. As labor shortages push wages up, automation becomes necessary, and global supply chains shift to survive the crisis. China’s middle class is also shrinking, and consumption is slowing down, signaling a new reality for the global market. In short, China's demographic winter is here, and it’s a preview of challenges many countries will face. Tune in to understand why China’s population crisis matters and what it means for the global economy.In This Episode:- China's meteoric rise and its hidden cost- The Chinese housing market crisis- China’s shrinking workforce and need for automation- China’s middle class and consumption decline- Military and geopolitical implications of the population decline- The global impact of China's demographic winterOrder Bradley’s Book:The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny: https://a.co/d/gmG6t2P Get in Touch with Bradley Schurman: Website: https://populationnext.substack.com   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradleyschurman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigschur/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyschurman/ 

Are you ready for a world where AI is not just a tool, but a partner in the workplace? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jess Von Bank, a future of work expert, to dive into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the labor market. From reshaping job structures to creating new opportunities, we explore how AI is transforming the way we work and what it means for the future of employment. We discuss the growing skills and people gaps that are challenging organizations today and how AI and automation could help bridge these divides. Jess emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the workforce, highlighting the need for continuous learning, ongoing development, and embracing new technologies to stay competitive in a rapidly changing job market. But it’s not all about the technology. We also unpack the human side of AI, including its potential biases and the impact on various demographics. If you're ready to navigate the intersection of technology and human talent, tune in and take the first step toward securing your future in an AI-driven world. In This Episode:- Introduction to AI's impact on jobs- Skills gap vs. people gap and what it means for jobs- The Darwinism of work and AI's role in job evolution- Why HR and the C-suite need to embrace AI automation for efficiency- Future of work with AI: shifting job roles and new opportunities- The need for lifelong learning and continuous skill development- Reimagining education and work for the AI age- Potential biases within AI, and how to address the issues- Ethical considerations of AI in the workforce- Advice for new job entrants on the future of workOrder Bradley’s Book:The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny: https://a.co/d/gmG6t2P About Jess Von Bank:Jess Von Bank is a seasoned HR transformation expert and the Global Leader of HR Transformation and Technology Advisory at Mercer. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in digital-first cultural transformations and workforce technology. Jess is also a recognized thought leader in talent strategy, diversity, and employer branding. Outside of work, she is the President of Diverse Daisies, a nonprofit empowering young girls. She is passionate about creating inclusive environments for both youth and employees.Get in Touch with Jess Von Bank:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessvonbank/ Get in Touch with Bradley Schurman: Website: https://populationnext.substack.com   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradleyschurman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigschur/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyschurman/

What happens when nations run out of soldiers to fight their wars but still choose to wage them? This is the reality we're facing today as shrinking populations collide with growing geopolitical tensions, particularly in Ukraine and Russia. As both countries grapple with devastating losses in manpower, technology has stepped in to reshape modern warfare. In this inaugural episode, I explore how the combination of demographic collapse and radical technological acceleration is transforming the battlefield. As birth rates plummet, drones, AI, and automation are becoming the soldiers and strategists of the future. It's clear that the evolution of warfare will be defined by the speed and sophistication of machines, not the number of soldiers on the ground. But will this technological shift make conflict more or less likely? Join me in exploring this and more insights on the intersection of shrinking populations and the future of global conflict.In This Episode:- The collision between warfare and demographic change - The cost of war in human lives- The impact of Russia's brain drain and low birth rates- How technology and AI are taking over the battlefield- Europe’s Kamikaze drone revolution- The U.S. military’s AI strategy- How demographics are driving defense automation- Global military manpower shortage and its implicationsOrder Bradley’s Book:The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny: https://a.co/d/gmG6t2P Get in Touch with Bradley Schurman: Website: https://www.behumanchange.com Substack: https://www.populationnext.com  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradleyschurman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigschur/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyschurman/ 

​​Welcome to Population Next, the podcast that helps business leaders and policymakers navigate the biggest—and most overlooked—threat to their future: demographic change. Hosted by Bradley Schurman, author of The Super Age and a leading expert in population dynamics, this show is your guide to turning challenges into opportunities.Each episode explores how shifting population patterns—declining birth rates, aging societies, and accelerated global migration—are transforming the way we work, live, and do business. With expert insights, real-world case studies, and forward-thinking guests, Bradley breaks down complex trends into clear strategies. Learn how to build generationally-dynamic teams, adapt to emerging labor markets and technologies, and create future-proof organizations that thrive during this period of demographic disruption.If you’re a C-suite executive, director, or founder who wants to lead with foresight, build resilience, and unlock new market potential, this podcast is your competitive edge. Tune in to Population Next on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube—and be the first to see what’s coming next.