Love in the Age of AI: Cathy Hackl with Samantha G Wolfe on Dating, Ethics, and Cathy’s Tech Intimacy Scale

In this episode of TechMagic, host Cathy Hackl is joined by Samantha G Wolfe, founder of PitchFWD and NYU adjunct professor, to explore how AI and emerging tech are redefining relationships. From AI-generated love letters to dating in virtual environments, they examine the evolving boundaries between authentic connection and digital convenience. The duo discusses the ethics of emotional AI, the importance of human messiness, and the need for “non-AI pledges” in romance. Packed with Cathy’s real-world experiments and and insightful commentary, this episode is essential for anyone navigating love, intimacy, and connection in a world increasingly shaped by technology.

What you will learn:

• How AI companions are being used beyond loneliness relief
• Why the "messiness" of human relationships remains valuable 
• How to navigate the balance between technology-enhanced and authentic human connections in modern dating using Cathy’s Tech Intimacy Scale
• The emerging challenges of AI-generated messages in relationships
• Why creating "non-AI relationship pledges" might become important 
• How spatial computing and 3D interactions could transform the future of digital dating and what Cathy’s building to disrupt this space 
• Why human presence and in-person connections remain crucial 

Come for the tech, stay for the magic!

Samantha G Wolfe Bio

Samantha G Wolfe is the founder of Pitch Forward and an adjunct professor at NYU, where she teaches pioneering courses on avatars, AI agents, and virtual beings. With a background in psychology, television, and emerging tech, Sam specializes in brand strategy for bleeding-edge technologies, helping visionary companies clearly articulate their value and future impact. Her expertise spans AI, spatial computing, XR, haptics, and metaverse innovation across 20+ industries. Known for her clarity, depth, and contagious enthusiasm, she bridges the gap between innovation and understanding through thought leadership, marketing strategy, and education, empowering the world to grasp the true potential of tomorrow’s tech.

Samantha G Wolfe on LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

• 00:00 Welcome to Tech Magic: Special Episode on Tech, Love & Life
• 02:47 Dating in the Age of AI: Government Restrictions and Digital Romance
• 12:20 Beyond Loneliness: The Many Reasons People Use AI Companions
• 16:05 The Value of Human "Messiness" in Relationships
• 21:00 Reimagining Digital Dating Through 3D Presence
• 38:15 The Non-AI Relationship Pledge: Setting Digital Boundaries
• 44:53 The Tech Intimacy Scale: Finding Balance in Modern Love
• 50:20 Dating AI Chatbots: A Week-Long Experiment Preview
• 58:54 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Human Connection

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