Inflation, Jobs, and Confidence Create Mixed Economic Message, AI Training Expands

Employers are holding on to their workforce and working them longer hours, according to the Paychex Small Business Employment Watch data from September, all while inflation continues to outpace wages. Host Gene Marks poses a few questions for employers on what to do amid an economy that keeps sending mixed messages: increased growth, persistent inflation, and businesses expressing lower confidence than a year ago while 62% express optimism about revenue growth in 2027. In AI news, a partnership with OpenAI and the Small Business Development Council extends training on practical uses for AI while expanding resources and networking, including playbooks and access. Listen to the podcast.

Topics:

00:00 – Introduction

00:31 – Paychex Year-End Payroll Checklist Promo

01:09 – Small Business Employment Snapshot (Paychex Report)

02:31 – Commentary: Wages vs. Inflation & Affordability

03:41 – Consumer Spending Implications

04:08 – Wall Street Journal / Commerce Dept. Data: Growth & Inflation

06:34 – Hiring Plans & Employee Benefits Snapshot

08:00 – AI News: SBDC–OpenAI Partnership Overview

10:05 – Episode Wrap-up

Additional Resources