The AI Arms Race (That No One’s Winning): Matt Charney (Live @ Unleash 2026)

In this candid, unfiltered conversation from Unleash 2026, Adam sits down with Matt Charney—industry veteran, investor connector, and one of the most outspoken voices in talent acquisition—to cut through the noise in HR tech and AI. Charney traces his unconventional path from Hollywood screenwriting to corporate recruiting leadership at companies like Amgen, Disney, and Warner Bros., ultimately landing in the world of startups, private equity, and TA tech commentary. Along the way, he challenges some of the biggest narratives dominating the industry today. At the core of the discussion is a reality check: recruiting hasn’t fundamentally changed. Despite the explosion of AI tools, vendors, and buzzwords, the job is still about making hires and improving people’s lives. Charney argues that much of the AI hype is recycled trend-chasing—echoing past waves like social recruiting and big data—while practitioners are left feeling behind in a game no one has actually mastered. The conversation dives into where AI does work (high-volume hiring), where it falls apart (knowledge work), and why most organizations are solving for the wrong problems. Charney also shares sharp perspectives on LinkedIn’s dominance, the illusion of innovation in HR tech, and the growing role of private equity in consolidating the space. Throughout, one theme remains constant: stop chasing tools, start focusing on outcomes. Recruiting, at its best, is still about changing lives—and that’s what the industry risks forgetting. Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcharney/ Subscribe to MattCharney.com