Exploring the Complexity of Efficiency in the Economy and the Pitfalls of Prioritizing It

Even though the American labor market is currently stronger than it has been in decades, earlier this year Big Tech companies were laying off workers at an alarming pace. Economists struggled to understand why some 25,000 tech workers were losing their jobs, even as the media panicked about whether those layoffs were a warning sign of an oncoming recession. University of Washington Professor Jeff Shulman joins us to uncover the real reasons behind Big Tech’s layoffs, and to explain their implications for workers. 

Jeffrey Shulman is a professor at the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington. He’s also a podcaster and filmmaker with a diverse range of expertise in pricing, entrepreneurial marketing, and product management. As a professor, he is known for his innovative research and teaching methods that delve into the intricacies of economic principles and their practical applications in the business world. Recently, Shulman has gained recognition for his insightful commentary on the highly publicized layoffs in the tech industry.  

More from Professor Shulman:

Nearly 25,000 tech workers were laid off in the first weeks of 2024. Why is that?

Why widespread tech layoffs keep happening despite a strong U.S. economy

How To Succeed In Product Management on Apple Podcasts

How To Succeed In Product Management on Spotify

Seattle Growth Podcast on Apple Podcasts

On The Brink: A Film via PBS

Website: http://pitchforkeconomics.com

Twitter: @PitchforkEcon

Instagram: @pitchforkeconomics

Nick’s twitter: @NickHanauer