Economic Wrap-Up 2025: Insights and Predictions for 2026 In this episode of Manufacturing Talk Radio, host Lewis Weiss welcomes Cliff Waldman, CEO of New World Economics, and Chris Kuehl, Managing Partner and Chief Economist at Armada Corporate Intelligence, to discuss the economic trends of 2025 and predictions for 2026. Key topics include the recent strong GDP performance, the challenges in the labor market, the potential for AI to transform entrepreneurship, and the role of education and apprenticeship programs in addressing skill gaps in manufacturing. The discussion also touches on international demographics, the impact of tariffs, and the evolving economics of cannabis. 00:00 Welcome Back to Manufacturing Talk Radio 01:02 Introducing Our Esteemed Guests 01:45 Chris Keel's Background and Insights 03:12 Cliff Waldman's Background and Insights 06:09 Reflecting on the Economic Landscape of 2025 10:18 The Impact of AI and Demographic Changes 18:53 Challenges in Employment and Manufacturing 22:02 The Role of Education and Apprenticeships 27:49 Innovative Solutions in Workforce Development 31:08 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices