Technology analyst Carmi Levy joins to talk about where restaurant automation is actually heading, and what gets lost when the entry-level job disappears from the equation.

Robots are already in restaurants, following servers from kitchen to table, handling the physical load so staff can focus on service. Carmi is fine with that version. What concerns him is the version where the human is removed entirely. McDonald's tried AI in the drive-thru, pulled it after too many errors, and is now trying again with more mature technology. Wendy's and White Castle are doing the same. The kiosk replaced the counter. The robot is replacing the runner. And the first job that taught generations of kids how to show up, take direction, and function in a workforce is quietly going away with nothing equivalent replacing it.

Topics: restaurant robots AI, fast food automation, entry level jobs technology, AI drive-thru, Carmi Levy

GUEST: Carmi Levy

Originally aired on 2026-06-25

Technology analyst Carmi Levy joins to talk about where restaurant automation is actually heading, and what gets lost when the entry-level job disappears from the equation.
Robots are already in restaurants, following servers from kitchen to table, handling the physical load so staff can focus on service. Carmi is fine with that version. What concerns him is the version where the human is removed entirely. McDonald's tried AI in the drive-thru, pulled it after too many errors, and is now trying again with more mature technology. Wendy's and White Castle are doing the same. The kiosk replaced the counter. The robot is replacing the runner. And the first job that taught generations of kids how to show up, take direction, and function in a workforce is quietly going away with nothing equivalent replacing it.
Topics: restaurant robots AI, fast food automation, entry level jobs technology, AI drive-thru, Carmi Levy
GUEST: Carmi Levy
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-06-25

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.