Is AI Leveling the Playing Field for Entrepreneurs?

Is AI Leveling the Playing Field for Entrepreneurs?

From NEXT with Marcus Atkinson by WQLN

January 16, 2026 · 48 min

About this episode

The episode explores whether AI is leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs or simply changing the rules, featuring insights on key trends shaping entrepreneurship in 2026.

As we head into 2026, entrepreneurship is surging—not just because of artificial intelligence, but because of a more profound shift in how people define work, opportunity, and success. While AI continues to dominate headlines, new data suggests that the future of entrepreneurship may be just as human as it is technological. In this episode, we examine ten key entrepreneurial trends shaping 2026 and ask a critical question: Is AI truly leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs—or simply changing the rules? From the growing number of Americans choosing business ownership over traditional employment, to the rise of “blue-collar entrepreneurship” and non-AI-dependent industries, we explore where real opportunity is emerging. Join host Marcus Atkinson and his special guest, Regional Artist and entrepreneur Kenny Base, for a timely conversation about technology, humanity, and the evolving entrepreneurial landscape—where AI may be a powerful tool, but human values remain the true differentiator. Today, On NEXT2.0

People in this episode

Host: Marcus Atkinson

Guest: Kenny Base

Topics covered

  • artificial intelligence
  • entrepreneurship
  • business ownership
  • technology
  • human values

Keywords

  • 2026
  • entrepreneurial trends
  • blue-collar entrepreneurship
  • non-AI-dependent industries

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