Episode 420: How AI is Changing Dating

Aug 5, 2025

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Everyone is talking about how artificial intelligence (AI) is going to fundamentally change almost every aspect of our lives, and that includes our intimate lives. So in today’s show, we’re going to explore the impact that AI is already having on the world of dating and relationships and whether it’s helping or hurting our chances of finding lasting love.

I am joined by Ellen Kaufman, a Senior Research Associate at the Kinsey Institute. Her research focuses on the intersection of sexuality and technology, exploring how our relationships and overall sexual and emotional wellbeing are shaped by new modalities of connection.

Some of the specific topics we explore include:

How many singles are currently using AI to boost their dating odds?
In what ways are people using AI to help them date?
Is AI going to ruin dating or make it better?
How many people have sought an AI romantic companion?
What’s the appeal of an AI companion? Can AI actually provide emotional fulfillment?

You can check out the website for the VIBES research team to learn more about Ellen’s work.

Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology.

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Credits: Precision Podcasting (Podcast editing) and Shutterstock/Florian (Music). Image created with Canva; photos used with permission of guest.