Meet the woman who understands how robots think and more importantly, how we think about them. Professor Kerstin Fischer brings over 20 years of research expertise to this fascinating exploration of human-robot interaction and what it means for our workplaces.
The conversation delves into a critical distinction most of us miss: the power of embodiment. While we're all getting comfortable with screen-based AI like ChatGPT, Kirsten reveals why physical robots fundamentally change our response to artificial intelligence. "Robots differ from other interactional technologies by means of their embodiment—they have physical bodies in the physical world," Kerstin explains. This physicality triggers a psychological mechanism called "depiction," where we simultaneously recognize robots as machines while constructing characters for them.
This matters for workplaces starting to integrate robotic systems. Kerstin shares eye-opening research with hosts Pauline James and David Creelman - showing how robots mimicking specific speech patterns (like Steve Jobs) dramatically increased compliance, even when giving incorrect directions. She also discusses fascinating applications already being developed, including therapeutic robots encouraging patient mobility after surgery and telepresence robots that create meaningful presence for remote workers. "With the robot, it was as if she was there," Fisher notes about a student using telepresence technology, highlighting the profound potential for belonging that these systems create.
Perhaps most surprising is Kerstin's counterintuitive warning that embodied robots may actually pose less risk than invisible AI systems. "Because of the embodiment of robots, you have an agent... whereas if you are using AI for human resource management or pre-screening applications, that is not visible." This transparency distinction represents a critical consideration for HR professionals navigating the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Ready to understand the robots that will soon be your coworkers? Listen now.
Feature Your Brand on the HRchat Podcast
The HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score.
Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.
Popular Podcasts
Fudd Around And Find Out
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!