From AI “boyfriends” to chatbots helping you flirt on dating apps, artificial intelligence is quietly stepping into the most human of spaces: emotional connection.

In this episode, we explore how AI is being used to replace or replicate intimacy, and what that says about us. We trace the story from Eliza, the 1960s chatbot that first made people feel understood by a machine, to today’s AI companions that promise empathy, romance, and even love.

Along the way, we talk about the people forming deep bonds with their chatbots, examine what is driving these connections, and ask whether an algorithm can really love you back. There are real benefits like comfort, confidence, and even healing, but also darker sides like manipulation, dependency, and heartbreak when an AI “partner” updates or disappears.

Finally, a lighter look at how AI is reshaping the dating world, from matchmaking bots to “chatfishing”. Are we finding connection, or just automating it?

This episode explores the realities of online safety for children and adolescents, addressing our common concerns, device use, and the shifting risks in today’s digital landscape. We discuss the research, parental perspectives including cyberbullying, exploitation, social media dynamics, and how we can use legislation to support safer online behaviour.

Research

Sutton & Finkelhor (2023): Crimes against children and adolescents online

Shillair et al. (2015): Tailored interventions for online safety

Support Services

Webwise.ie

hotline.ie

childline.ie

ispcc.ie

In this episode we deep dive into the relationship between social media and our perceptions of body image. We examine how social media platforms influence body image for people of different genders, ages, and communities and look at some social media trends which may be problematic.

Dougherty & Krawczyk (2018): Gender differences in media exposure and trait appearance comparison.

Ryding & Kuss (2020): Meta-analysis of 40 studies showing passive, image-based social comparison.

Lonergan et al (2020): Social media posting and editing behaviours and eating disorder risk among adolescents

Bodywhys: The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland - bodywhys.ie

Jigsaw: The National Centre for Youth Mental Health - Jigsaw.ie

HSE: https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/cspd/ncps/mental-health/eating-disorders/useful-links/