Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast artwork

How AI Is Changing the Workplace: Efficiency Gains or Higher Demands? | Behind the Numbers

Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast · with Jacob Bourne & Grace Harmon · March 13, 2026 · 24 min

Summary

This episode dissects the real impact of AI on the workplace, moving beyond hype to pragmatic insights for ecommerce operators. It evaluates AI's role in driving productivity, exposes hidden trade-offs, and offers strategies for successful AI adoption. Essential listening for leaders aiming to intelligently integrate AI without compromising employee morale or escalating demands.

Key takeaways

Themes

ai & automationfounder & leadership

Topics covered

ai productivity measurementhidden trade-offs of aiovercoming ai adoption barriersai's impact on worker perceptionshuman-ai collaborationemployee upskilling for ai

Episode description

On today’s podcast episode, we discuss how much AI is really helping with productivity, the hidden trade-offs of using the technology in the workplace, how to counter slow and uneven adoption, and how AI is affecting the way workers view their roles. Join Senior Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, along with analysts Jacob Bourne and Grace Harmon. Listen everywhere, and watch on YouTube and Spotify. Get more insights like these with our free, industry-leading newsletters covering advertising, marketing, and commerce. Sign up at emarketer.com/newslettersFollow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.comFor more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode click here:https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-how-ai-changing-workplace-efficiency-gains-higher-demands-behind-numbers © 2026 EMARKETER Rokt helps marketers reach high-intent customers in the Transaction Moment™—when they’re actively completing a purchase online. Powered by AI and first-party data, Rokt Ads connects your brand with over 400 million global shoppers and delivers outcomes you can count on. Learn more at rokt.com/emarketer to get started today.

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Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about ai & automation?
Quantify AI’s true productivity impact by isolating its contribution to efficiency gains through targeted metrics, rather than assuming blanket improvements.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Proactively address potential AI trade-offs like increased workload and skill gaps by investing in upskilling programs and strategic task reallocation to maintain employee morale.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
Implement pilot programs and iterative AI deployment strategies, coupled with strong leadership buy-in, to overcome adoption barriers and employee skepticism.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
Focus on human-AI collaboration models, retraining existing staff for higher-value tasks, rather than solely on AI for job replacement, to foster a positive future of work.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
Understand that AI implementation is an ongoing process requiring continuous evaluation of its ethical implications and impact on employee engagement.

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