AI agents are autonomous software programs that can perceive their environment and make decisions, and they are reshaping the work landscape. In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Kelly Monahan explores a bold new vision of work, where AI agents operate alongside humans—and every employee becomes an “agent boss.” Drawing on insights from Microsoft and Upwork’s Future Workforce Index, we break down what it means to lead in the age of AI, why uniquely human skills are more valuable than ever, and how organizations can rethink structure, culture, and strategy to stay competitive. Whether you're a business decision maker or an independent professional, this episode will equip you to navigate—and shape—the AI-powered workplace of tomorrow.

Is a four-year college degree still the best predictor of workplace success? In this episode of Work Week, host Dr. Gabby Burlacu explores why companies are rethinking traditional hiring practices in favor of a skills-first approach. Featuring new data from the Upwork Research Institute and industry research from the World Economic Forum, we discuss why executives are removing degree requirements, as well as steps your organization can take to adopt skills-based hiring. Whether you’re a leader or hiring manager, or are curious about how talent is evolving, this episode offers actionable insights into building a more effective, agile workplace.

In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Kelly Monahan explores the rise of mini-retirements—intentional pauses early- and mid-career—and what this trend signals about growing burnout in the workforce. Drawing on data from The Upwork Research Institute and external research, we examine how Gen Z and millennial workers in particular are redesigning their careers with intentional pauses, flexibility, and freelancing. Learn how organizations can respond by prioritizing flexibility and mental health in the workplace—before burnout drives talent out the door.

The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2030, one in five Americans will be of retirement age. Organizations are facing an urgent challenge: how to navigate massive talent shifts and skills gaps brought on by the wave of retirements, which experts are already calling the “Silver Tsunami.” In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Kelly Monahan, Managing Director of the Upwork Research Institute, explores the business impact of this retirement wave—and offers a practical playbook for bridging the growing skills gap. Learn how engaging freelancers, upskilling existing workers, and supporting flexible work arrangements can support business agility amid talent shortages.

As AI continues to automate simple, more tedious tasks, human skills are becoming foundational to success. In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Gabby Burlacu, Senior Manager of The Upwork Research Institute, explores why soft, human-centric skills like communication and adaptability are a competitive advantage in today’s disruptive workplace. Leveraging research from the Research Institute’s recently released Future Workforce Index, we uncover why skills often labeled as “soft” are least automatable, yet most essential, in an AI-driven world of work. We also share why skilled freelancers are outpacing traditional employees across human-centric competencies. Whether you’re a leader looking to future-proof your workforce or a professional navigating the new career landscape, this episode offers clear, research-backed strategies for strengthening the skills that matter most.

Amid the ongoing impact of AI and other disruptors on the workplace, one thing is clear: workers need more than new skills—they also need guidance. In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Kelly Monahan, Managing Director of The Upwork Research Institute, explores why coaching, development, and human-centered learning are more important than ever in an AI-driven world. Drawing on data from Upwork’s 2025 In-Demand Skills Report, we dive into the rising demand on the platform for coaching skills, what this says about the state of the modern workforce, and why “learning how to learn” is emerging as a mission-critical skill. You’ll discover why coaching is no longer a luxury reserved for executives, but is a strategic imperative for organizations focused on agility, engagement, and long-term growth across the workforce.

In a continuation of our review of The Upwork Research Institute’s new Future Workforce Index, Dr. Gabby Burlacu  reveals how and why independent skilled professionals are redefining the modern workplace. We explore four distinct models of independent work—and why they’re growing. The episode also compares aspects of freelance to full-time employment, revealing surprising advantages in earnings, satisfaction, and future-readiness. Plus, we examine how traditional talent models may be holding back both organizations and individuals. Whether you’re a business leader adapting your workforce strategy or a skilled worker navigating change, this episode is packed with actionable insights on building a more agile, empowered, and future-ready career or team.

Skilled work is evolving and careers are becoming more independent and less traditional. In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Gabby Burlacu, Senior Manager at The Upwork Research Institute, looks at recent findings from the Research Institute’s newly released Future Workforce Index. We explore how freelancing, AI adoption, and career autonomy are reshaping what it means to be a skilled worker. We’ll discuss why skilled freelancers are more future-ready, how they’re leveraging AI, and what business leaders need to do to adapt. Plus, we share an actionable pilot project strategy for bringing in freelance talent to address skill gaps. Whether you’re a leader navigating talent shortages or a professional charting your own path, this episode offers essential insights into the future of skilled work.

Is freelancing your solution to meeting the challenges of the modern job market? Data shows a job market paradox: despite strong employment numbers, job seekers are struggling. In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Kelly Monahan, Managing Director at The Upwork Research Institute, takes a close look at the numbers, breaking down the data to uncover key challenges. We explore why freelancing is becoming a viable and often preferable alternative to traditional employment. From individual success stories to Gen Z’s freelance surge, this episode offers insight into how today’s workers are redefining job security and career success, as well as practical steps to grow your freelance career.

How can leaders build teams that don’t just survive uncertainty, but thrive in it? Data shows that robustness and resilience aren’t enough; leaders need to inoculate their teams from disruption by creating antifragile processes. In this episode of Work Week, Dr. Kelly Monahan, Managing Director of The Upwork Research Institute, unpacks the concept of antifragility—a mindset that turns disruption into a catalyst for growth. We explore how organizations can foster agility, decentralize decision-making, and use controlled experiments to gain strength from volatility. Using insights from Upwork’s Work Innovator research and real-world examples, we break down the key traits of antifragile teams and provide actionable steps for leaders. If you’re looking to future-proof your organization, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and learn how embracing challenges can become your greatest advantage.