Noah Smith is a star economics writer behind the “Noahpinion” blog and co-host of the Econ 102 podcast. Smith joins Big Technology to discuss whether generative AI is actually boosting productivity or still waiting for its “electricity moment.” Tune in to hear his contrarian take on the so-called AI jobs apocalypse and how businesses will need to reorganize before the gains show up in earnings. We also cover immigration crackdowns, tariff uncertainty, wage-inequality myths, and how China’s military buildup reshapes economic strategy. Hit play for a sharp, no-hype dive into AI, economics, and geopolitics—only on Big Technology Podcast. Chapters 00:00 AI and Productivity: The Current Landscape 07:05 The Future of Jobs in an AI World 19:24 Inequality and Economic Trends 24:56 Social Media's Role in Political Unrest 30:23 Political Trends and Class Divides 32:16 Economic Policies and Government Intervention 35:44 The Appeal of New Political Figures 39:34 Immigration and Economic Impact 43:50 Tariffs and Market Reactions 47:28 US-China Relations and Military Buildup