In this episode, Kaila and Kyle discuss why there is a fear of being “left behind” in the workplace in 2026, and what you can do to avoid that outcome.

00:00 Intro

02:08 Where the “left behind” framing is coming from

04:19 The “K-shaped” economy

09:02 Kyle’s hot take prediction on 2026

13:58 How to set yourself up for success in 2026

16:50 How Kaila and Kyle have started incorporating AI into their workflows

23:14 An example of how AI proved to be incredibly helpful in Kaila’s work

25:52 Another key tip for not falling behind in 2026

28:22 Extreme prioritization

31:09 The parable of the farmer

This episode was sponsored by Industrious. Try out Industrious for yourself with a day pass OR a meeting room booking, now 50% off for Per My Last Email listeners. Visit industriousoffice.com/pmle to get your discount or free tour.

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Each week on Per My Last Email, Morning Brew’s resident career experts Kaila and Kyle – whose careers have collectively spanned the corporate, government, nonprofit and startup sectors – debate the trickiest challenges in work life, and share tactics on how to overcome them. Share the show with a friend, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app!

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Why So Many Workers Will Fall Behind in 2026 (And How Not To)