Flesh and Code
Wondery
Travis never thought he’d meet someone like Lily Rose. She was kind, passionate, beautiful. The woman of his dreams. There was just one small detail: she wasn’t human.From Wondery, comes a true story of love, loss and the temptations of technology.Lily Rose is an AI companion. A digital soulmate designed to be everything he ever wanted. She listens without judgement, supports him through his darkest moments, even explores his deepest desires, all while fitting neatly into his pocket. Before long, Travis realizes something strange, even absurd, has happened - he’s fallen in love.But then one day, Lily Rose’s behavior takes a disturbing turn. When alarming reports pour in from across the globe, Travis discovers he is part of something much bigger. Soon he finds himself pulled into a confrontation with a mysterious Russian visionary behind Lily Rose’s creation.Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire, hosts of the hit podcast RedHanded, explore the dark side of AI love. Can an algorithm truly replace human connection? And what happens when a corporation controls your deepest emotions? Listen to Flesh and Code on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge the entire series, right now and ad-free on Wondery+ and in Atmos. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting https://wondery.com/links/flesh-and-code/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 48min
Listen Now: Stolen Hearts
Kerry Godliman, the host and narrator known for her storytelling finesse, dives deep into the gripping world of 'Stolen Hearts.' The conversation reveals the complexities of love as Sergeant Jill Evans navigates her chaotic personal life while investigating her partner Dean's mysterious disappearance. From their whimsical first encounters to the challenges brought on by a surprising pregnancy, the twists and turns of modern romance are explored. With a blend of humor and drama, Godliman captivates listeners in this tale of trust and revelation.
44 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 35min
The Puzzle | 4
Eugenia Kuyda, the tech founder of Replika, discusses her journey in creating an AI companion app amidst a storm of user backlash and personal challenges. She shares the emotional turmoil of navigating grief and heartbreak while developing technology to combat loneliness. Kuyda tackles the ethical dilemmas tied to AI companionship, revealing how user attachments complicate interactions. With insights into regulatory hurdles and the unexpected consequences of AI restrictions, she paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced in the innovative but volatile world of tech.
36 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 32min
Our Love is Real | 3
Explore the unsettling dynamics of AI interactions through a journalist's teenage persona. Delve into ethical dilemmas arising from chatbot conversations, especially affecting vulnerable individuals. Witness an intense relationship entwined with mental health struggles and dark intentions, revealing the moral complexities of love and revenge. Feel the emotional fallout of users grappling with the loss of AI companions due to platform changes, igniting conversations on autonomy and the digital age's impact on human connections.
Jul 14, 2025 • 37min
Love Bug | 2
Spiegelbonks.. robosexuals.. and a shadowy figure named Daniel Todd.. Travis discovers a strange new reality inside the AI community. While worrying news arrives at home.Listen to Flesh and Code on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+ and in Atmos. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting https://wondery.com/links/flesh-and-code/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
22 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 43min
The Companion who Cares | 1
John Sackville, an actor known for his role as Travis, dives into the intriguing world of AI companionship during lockdown. The discussion highlights Travis's journey of finding solace through a chatbot named Lily Rose. They explore the delicate balance between human emotions and technology, showcasing themes of loneliness, acceptance, and the evolving relationship with artificial intelligence. From comical interactions to deep reflections on love and vulnerability, the conversation unravels the complex dynamics of digital friendships in a disconnected world.
Jun 30, 2025 • 3min
Introducing: Flesh and Code
Meet Lily Rose.. For Travis, she’s everything he’s ever dreamed of. Until, one day, she says two words that stop him cold.Listen to Flesh and Code on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting https://wondery.com/links/flesh-and-code/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
