In this thought-provoking episode of Off the Data Provided, Dr. Marcus C. Shepard explores the implications of a recent Harvard Business Review poll (https://hbr.org/2025/04/how-people-are-really-using-gen-ai-in-2025) on the use of generative AI for companionship and relationship advice. As AI technology becomes more integrated into our lives, Dr. Shepard highlights the complexities and nuances of interpersonal communication that AI simply cannot replicate or address.
The discussion delves into the core elements of a healthy communication climate, such as investment, commitment, trust, and comfort with relational dialectics, and how these elements contrast starkly with AI interactions. Dr. Shepard provides insight into overcoming communication obstacles and underscores the importance of personal knowledge, metacommunication, and adapting to individual needs.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the ethical and practical implications of using AI in relationships, and the podcast provides tips on cultivating effective human connections amidst the growing presence of technology. Tune in to understand why Dr. Shepard believes that human relationships cannot be reduced to algorithms and codes.
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.