In this episode, Marcus and Esme scratch the surface of AI’s impact on mental health: the wedge of isolation it’s driving between individuals (particularly children) and their families/friends in the name of engagement; the impact of its parroted empathy; its unregulated pervasiveness in our culture; and the risks it poses as a possible “tool” in the mental health space. They reflect on their own past mental health crises, and posit how this technology (had it existed or been engaged with) could have easily fed their worst thoughts. Finally, thoughts on protections and regulations, and how to monitor and discuss use of these “tools” with our kids. Buckle up – deep breaths needed for this one, folks.

Trigger warning: This episode contains references to suicide and suicidal ideation—listener discretion is advised.

If you or someone you love is dealing with these issues, please know that hope and help is available.

Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

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- Chat at 988lifeline.org

Connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.

Visit the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for more information at 988lifeline.org

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Sources for this episode include:

• Orgvue. “55% of Businesses Admit Wrong Decisions in Making Employees Redundant When Bringing AI into the Workforce.” Orgvue, 29 Apr. 2025, https://www.orgvue.com/news/55-of-businesses-admit-wrong-decisions-in-making-employees-redundant-when-bringing-ai-into-the-workforce.
• “Is A.I. a Bubble?” The New York Times, 27 Oct. 2025, https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/27/briefing/is-ai-a-bubble.html.
• Chatterjee, Rhitu. “Their Teenage Sons Died by Suicide. Now, They Are Sounding an Alarm about AI Chatbots.” NPR, 19 Sept. 2025, https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/09/19/nx-s1-5545749/ai-chatbots-safety-openai-meta-characterai-teens-suicide.
• “Exploring the Dangers of AI in Mental Health Care.” Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI), https://hai.stanford.edu/news/exploring-the-dangers-of-ai-in-mental-health-care.
• Trachman, Susan B. “The Hidden Dangers of AI-Driven Mental Health Care.” Psychology Today, 2 Jan. 2026, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/its-not-just-in-your-head/202601/the-hidden-dangers-of-ai-driven-mental-health-care.

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