AI is about to create an epidemic of addiction in this country and around the world, according to Zachary Gidwitz, founder of OpenRecovery. Could it also be our best shot at fighting back? In this episode of The Rip Current, I discuss the growing issue of addiction in America and the potential for AI tools to combat it with Gidwitz. Together we get into the rise of various forms of addiction, from fentanyl and gambling to social media and pornography. Gidwitz shares his vision of using AI not to replace human therapists but to guide individuals towards real human connection and effective recovery programs. He stresses the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs and avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches. The conversation also explores the ethical considerations and challenges in using AI for such sensitive applications, emphasizing the need for transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Addiction is coming, team. Here’s hoping conversations like this can help get us out in front of it.

00:00 The Rising Wave of Addiction

02:18 Introducing Zachary Gidwitz and Open Recovery

02:38 Understanding Behavioral Change and Recovery

05:46 Personal Stories of Addiction

07:56 The Role of AI in Addiction Recovery

18:16 Challenges and Ethical Considerations

30:15 Facing Investor Skepticism

31:02 Mission-Driven Challenges

32:31 AI and Behavioral Change

33:42 The Role of Technology in Recovery

35:23 Spiritual Solutions and Community

36:52 Companion vs. Monitoring Tools

38:51 AI’s Role in Addiction Recovery

48:37 Cultural Differences in Addiction Recovery

57:52 Ethical Considerations and Data Sensitivity

01:01:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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AI Addiction is Coming (with Zachary Gidwitz)