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July 2, 2025 37 mins

Let's just start by saying this is not a topic we've talked extensively about on this podcast, but I think it is more relevant now than ever. So let's focus on the important things...


Are people really falling in love with AI chatbots?! Yes. Yes, they are. And that’s where we’re starting on today’s episode. I’m joined by my friend and licensed therapist Kristen Hatton, and we’re diving into the very real (and slightly surreal) ways technology is reshaping our relationships, parenting, and emotional health.


We’re talking about how AI is creeping into everything from therapy to our kids’ social lives. It’s weird and wild—but underneath it all, it points to something we all crave: real connection.


Kristen shares from her perspective as a counselor and mom, and we get into the loneliness so many people are facing, how vulnerability feels risky (but is totally worth it), and why choosing real relationships matters.


We also talk about parenting from a place of trust rather than fear—easier said than done for sure. But Kristen brings wisdom and practical encouragement for those of us trying to raise emotionally healthy kids in a world that wants to offer them a chatbot instead of a friend.


Whether you’re parenting teens, navigating friendship in a digital world, or you accidentally fell in love with Alexa (JK)—this episode is full of important reminders that human connection is still worth fighting for.


All things Cynthia

Kristen Hatton Website

Redemptive Parenting



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