Dale Walsh: Are Robots Really Taking Over Human Jobs?

Why Are People Afraid of Robots?

When people think about robots, they often imagine them taking over jobs and leaving humans without work. It’s a fear many of us share because stories about automation usually focus on what we might lose, not what we might gain. In a recent episode of The New World Podcast, robotics expert Dale Walsh tackled these fears head-on and explained the real impact of robots in the workplace.

Robots Aren’t Taking Jobs—They’re Filling Gaps

Dale shared a surprising fact: in many cases, robots aren’t replacing people—they’re helping fill roles that businesses can’t hire for. Whether it’s delivering food in restaurants, cleaning skyscraper windows, or moving heavy car parts in dealerships, robots take on tasks that are either too hard to fill or too dangerous for humans. “Robots aren’t stealing jobs—they’re creating new ones,” Dale explained.

But the U.S. has been slow to adopt robots compared to countries in Asia, where they are a normal part of life. Dale believes that many Americans fear robots because they don’t understand them. This cultural hesitation has slowed progress in industries where automation could make a huge difference.

The Real Problem: It’s Not the Robots

One of the biggest issues Dale talked about is human error. He shared that 75% of robot problems happen because people don’t use or maintain them correctly—not because the machines are broken. Too often, robots end up abandoned in corners of workplaces, not because they fail but because their owners don’t keep them updated or trained.

Dale’s solution is simple: regular maintenance and training. Companies that use robots effectively plan ahead and reduce unexpected breakdowns by 93%. It’s a game-changer for businesses that rely on robots every day.

How Robots Make Work Better

Robots aren’t just about doing the boring, dirty, or dangerous jobs. They’re also about making work easier for people. For example, in restaurants, robots can deliver food or carry heavy dishes, letting waitstaff spend more time with customers. This improves service and even helps employees earn bigger tips.

In other industries, robots reduce workplace injuries by taking on tasks like lifting heavy objects or working in risky environments. Dale sees robots as tools that help people—not replace them.

The Future Is About Working Together

Dale ended the conversation on an optimistic note. He believes that robots and humans can work together to make jobs better and industries more efficient. While there will always be challenges, like learning how to use new technology, the benefits far outweigh the fears.

Robots aren’t going anywhere. As Dale said, “It’s like your phone—you were afraid of it at first, but now you can’t live without it. Robots are the same.”

Key Takeaway

Instead of fearing robots, it’s time to understand them. They’re tools that can help us solve problems, take on tough jobs, and even create new opportunities. The future isn’t about humans versus machines—it’s about how we work together.

Watch it here: